Is a Homeschooling Option Crazy? Let’s Talk About Socialization and What Children May Really Need.

If you’ve ever told someone you plan to homeschool your child, you’ve probably heard a version of this:

“But what about socialization?” Or “Aren’t you worried your child won’t learn to be independent?”

It’s one of the most common concerns from people who mean well but don’t fully understand what homeschooling really looks like today. It’s also a reflection of a cultural story that’s due for some gentle unraveling… So let’s talk about it.

The Myth: Homeschooling Kids Don’t Get Enough Socialization

This concern comes from a time when homeschooling was rare and often isolating. But homeschooling has evolved dramatically. Parents can do it on their own or with a team of experts and online teachers with a community.

Today’s homeschoolers often participate in:

• Co-ops

• Learning pods

• Weekly enrichment programs

• Nature walks & enrichment 

• Sports teams

• Art and music classes

• Cultural and spiritual gatherings (such as Fireside ceremonies) 

  
  

Not only are homeschooled kids socializing, they’re often doing it in more intentional and meaningful ways than their traditionally schooled peers. According to the National Home Education Research Institute (NHERI), homeschooled children typically score above average in social, emotional, and psychological development.

They also tend to engage in a wider range of mixed-age interactions and have stronger relationships with adults, which better reflects real-world communication patterns. In fact, a study published in the Peabody Journal of Education found that homeschoolers demonstrated better social skills, emotional maturity, and self-esteem than conventionally schooled children. Many podcasts and social media influencers are showcasing their successes with choosing homeschool for their children. 

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The Truth: Bonding with Caregivers & Siblings Comes First

Socialization isn’t just about peer interaction. It’s about learning how to relate, trust, communicate, and self-regulate.

For children under age seven especially, bonding with primary caregivers is far more important than peer interaction. This is what builds emotional safety and long-term confidence.

Children are also hyper-suggestible during these years, so how they are influenced is extremely critical. 

Psychologist Dr. Gordon Neufeld explains that premature peer orientation. Expecting young children to learn social behavior from other immature peers can actually cause confusion, insecurity, and even behavioral issues. Children first need to feel grounded in adult attachment before they can navigate broader social landscapes with resilience.

Homeschooling, especially in the early years, can provide the nurturing, stable foundation children need to bloom at their own pace, without being pushed into systems that often prioritize conformity over connection.

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But What About Independence?

There’s a common belief that in order to become independent, a child must be separated from their parents early. But independence actually comes from secure attachment, not forced separation. 

When a child feels safe, seen, and supported, they naturally begin to explore the world on their own terms. Homeschooling allows children to develop independence from a place of confidence, not anxiety.

They can ask questions, make mistakes, and express themselves without the fear of judgment, ridicule, or academic pressure. That’s the kind of freedom that creates emotionally intelligent, self-motivated learners.

So if you’re still questioning: Is Homeschooling “Crazy”? Not at all. In fact, for many families, it’s one of the most thoughtful, brave, and empowering choices they’ll ever make.

Homeschooling isn’t about sheltering- it’s about curating a learning environment that honors your child’s unique rhythm and soul. It’s about raising humans who are deeply rooted, emotionally aware, and intellectually curious.

If you’ve chosen to homeschool or are considering it… trust your intuition. Listen to your child. Let your home be a space of joy, connection, and growth. You’re not depriving your child of anything. You’re giving them the most important thing of all: a safe, loving, conscious foundation from which to explore the world.

And that’s not crazy. That’s wisdom.

With consideration,

Alanna Starr Shimel