Overview
What it is
Deschooling is a transition period — for both child and parent — after leaving a traditional school and before diving into formal homeschooling. It gives everyone time to decompress, reset expectations, and rediscover the joy of learning outside the rhythms of school. Many experienced homeschoolers say it's one of the most valuable (and most skipped) steps.
How It Works
How it works
- Rest and decompressEspecially after a stressful school experience — let the pressure ease
- Follow curiosityTrips, projects, reading, games, hobbies — learning that doesn't look like school
- Observe your childNotice how and what they love to learn — it informs your approach
- Reset your own expectationsHome learning doesn't need to mirror a classroom schedule
- Rough rule of thumbMany families allow about a month of deschooling for each year the child was in school (adjust to your family)
Tips
Tips for success
- Don't rush into a full curriculumEase in gradually
- Resist recreating school at homeThat's often what wasn't working
- Keep learning naturalRead together, explore, and follow interests
- Watch for the shiftYou'll notice curiosity and calm returning
- Then start lightAdd structure slowly as everyone is ready
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
- What is deschooling?A transition period to decompress and reset before formal homeschooling.
- How long does it take?It varies — a common guide is about a month per year in school.
- Is it wasted time?No — it often makes homeschooling far smoother and more joyful.
- What should we do?Rest, explore, read, follow interests — learning that doesn't look like school.
- Do all families deschool?Not all, but many find it very helpful, especially after leaving school.
At a Glance
Key facts
- WhatA transition period after leaving school
- WhyDecompress & reset before formal learning
- Rough guide~1 month per year in school
- DoRest, explore, reconnect with learning
- ThenEase into your homeschool approach
Learn More
Where to learn more
Then choose your approach: