A Note to the Homeschooling Grandparent
When you heard your child say, “We’re going to homeschool,” it might have surprised you. Maybe you were thrilled. Maybe you had questions. Maybe you wondered what this would mean for your grandchildren and for you.
And us homeschooling families get it. We know that (for the most part most of us) had a positive school experience. We know that (if we went to school) you were making the best choice for us. You should know that choosing to homeschool isn’t a commentary on your decisions when you were in the trenches of parenting.
Whatever your first reaction was, know this: your role as a grandparent is still as vital as ever. Homeschooling is a beautiful gift to a family, but like all worthy endeavors, it takes time, energy, and a team of support. You are part of that team.
This is a note to you, the homeschooling grandparent. It is full of encouragement, practical tips, and ideas for how to support your homeschooling family.
Why Do Families Choose Homeschooling?
Your child did not make this decision lightly. Most homeschooling families spend months or years researching, planning, and praying before committing. For many, homeschooling is about giving their children a rich, individualized education, building strong family connections, and protecting time for things that matter most.
You do not have to agree with every decision or understand every detail. What matters most is trust: your child loves their children and wants the best for them.
1. Ask How You Can Help
A simple question like, “How can I support you?” goes a long way. Sometimes the answer will be practical, such as babysitting during a co-op day or running errands. Other times, it might mean being a listening ear when the days feel long.
2. Celebrate Every Win
Homeschooling parents often feel pressure to prove they are doing enough. Your encouragement matters. Celebrate their efforts and your grandchildren’s accomplishments. Say things like, “I love how curious they are!” or “You’re doing a great job.”
3. Share Your Talents
Do you enjoy gardening, woodworking, baking, or sewing? Teach your grandchildren. These experiences are the heart of a living education and a treasured gift from you.
4. Respect Their Rhythm
Homeschool days can look different from what you expect. There will be times of focused learning and times of rest. If you are planning a visit or outing, ask first so you do not interrupt their flow.
Practical Ways Grandparents Can Help with Homeschooling
Provide a Quiet Space: If you live nearby, offer your home as a quiet space for older kids to work on projects.
Read Aloud: Children love stories, and reading aloud is one of the most powerful parts of homeschooling. Offer to read a favorite book during visits.
Plan a Nature Walk: Take the kids to a local park or botanical garden. Bring along field guides for birds or wildflowers.
Cook Together: Cooking is both practical and educational. You can teach fractions, measurements, and family recipes all at once.
Create Memory Days: Organize simple craft or baking afternoons. These become treasured memories while also reinforcing life skills.
Gift Useful Resources: Instead of toys, consider books, art supplies, puzzles, or memberships to science museums and botanical gardens.
Help with Practical Needs: Drop off a meal on a busy day, pick up groceries, or offer childcare for a few hours so parents can plan or rest.
What Not to Do
Do Not Question in Front of the Children
If you have concerns, speak privately. Children need to feel confident in their parents’ leadership.Do Not Compare
Avoid comments like, “Your cousin is already doing multiplication.” Homeschooling works because it allows children to progress at their own pace.Do Not Assume It Is Temporary
Some families homeschool for a short season, others for many years. Avoid remarks such as, “When they go back to school…” Instead, support them where they are now.
The Gift You Give
Your role matters more than you know. When you encourage and support, you give the gift of stability and love, which every child and every parent needs.
So lean in. Ask questions. Offer help. Teach generously. And most of all, remind your grandchildren that they are deeply loved, not only by their parents but by a grandparent who believes in them.
