How to Transition from Homeschool Mom to the Workforce

Graduating your child from homeschooling is a significant achievement. But what’s next for you, dear homeschool mom? With back to school in fullswing for both homeschoolers and public schoolers are you sitting around wondering what to do with yourself? The transition from full-time homeschool mom to an empty nest can be a challenging one. However, it’s also an exciting opportunity to explore new avenues and keep yourself busy.

In this blog post, we’ll explore various part-time and remote job options, as well as other ideas to help you make a smooth transition into the workforce or just finding things to feel like you are successfully contributing to your community.

Maybe you’re at a place where your kids are in college, married, or gainfully employed and you look around wondering what you’re supposed to do now. Or, like me, you have an adult/child in college and you need to earn extra income to help pay for tuition and other expenses. 

I understand how difficult this phase is. As a homeschooling mom of one, when my son graduated a couple of years ago, I was overwhelmed with feelings of, what’s next? and have kind of struggled to even know what to write about here on my blog. So I get it! Whatever your reason is for seeking out transitioning ideas for the after homeschool years I think this post will give you some ideas to motivate you for the next phase of your life. 

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How to Use Your Homeschool Experience for Job Opportunities

You’ve spent the last 13 or more years dedicated to educating your children at home. And, that’s a big job! You’ve learned so much. You have gained knowledge in so many areas of learning, yet, how do you take that knowledge and use it for something else? 

Homeschool moms possess a unique set of skills and experiences that make them valuable candidates for various job opportunities. As homeschooling involves creating lesson plans, developing curriculum, and managing schedules, homeschool moms have excellent organizational and time management skills. They are also adept at adapting lessons to suit different learning styles and age groups making you an excellent problem solver. 

These skills can translate well into roles such as virtual assistants, where strong organizational skills are essential. In addition to organizational skills, homeschool moms have experience in teaching and mentoring children. This experience can be leveraged into tutoring or childcare roles. 

Homeschool moms have a deep understanding of different learning styles and can provide personalized attention to children who may require extra support. They also have experience in teaching various subjects, which can be useful in tutoring roles. Plus, you’ve learned an incredibly valuable skill of knowing how to research. As a homeschool mom you have spent years researching curriculum, education methods, learning resources and more to help your children have the best possible, well-rounded education

By highlighting these experiences on an application or resume, homeschool moms can showcase their ability to adapt to different situations and provide value in various job opportunities.

Discover more practical advice for life after homeschooling from these homeschool mom bloggers.

• Life after Homeschooling from Gina at The Happy Housewife
• The End of Homeschooling from Lee Binz
• Options after Homeschooling by Michelle Welsh

10 Job Ideas for Homeschool Moms after Graduating Your Kids

1. Tutoring: Leverage your homeschooling experience by becoming a tutor. You can offer your services to local families or join an online tutoring platform. Subjects you’re passionate about can become a source of income.
2. Substitute Teaching: Many schools are in constant need of substitute teachers. You would have the flexibility that you are used to in regards to time off and being able to have summers free while staying connected to education and making some extra income. Plus, you don’t have to create lesson plans, be responsible for grading or track time, like you may have in your homeschooling years.
3. Childcare Provider: If you enjoyed homeschooling, consider providing childcare services for other working parents. Your nurturing skills will be highly valued and you can set the hours of your availability. 
4. Freelance Writing: If you have a flair for writing, freelance writing is a flexible option. You can write articles, blog posts, or even e-books from the comfort of your home. There are many freelance writing jobs available online, or you can search your local area for positions. 
5. Librarian Assistant: While you would probably need a degree in library science to be a Head Librarian, you probaboy can qualify as a library assistant, or youth services coordinator for your local library. Afterall, who knows the library better than a homeschool mom?

Try these Books to Help you Transition from Homeschool to Empty Nest

Work from Home Remote Jobs:

1. Virtual Assistant: Many businesses are looking for virtual assistants to handle administrative tasks remotely. Your organizational skills will be an asset in this role.
2. Online Teaching: Teach English or other subjects online to students around the world. Websites like VIPKid and Teachable are great platforms to start. Some require a Bachelor’s degree, while others may only require a high school diploma. 
3. Audio Recordings: Love reading to children? Perhaps you could get hired reading for audio books as a narrator.
4. Content Creation: If you have a creative side, consider starting a blog or a YouTube channel. With time and effort, you can monetize your content through ads, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing.
5. E-commerce: Start an online store selling products that align with your interests. Platforms like Etsy or Shopify make it easy to set up shop and sell handmade or unique items.

Here are some good resources to find part-time and remote job options for homeschool moms:

• Upwork
• Fiverr
• Indeed
• ZipRecruiter
• ACX (for Narrators)
• Voice Over Jobs with Voice123

Other Ideas for Keeping Busy after Transitioning Away from Homeschooling

1. Volunteer Work: Consider volunteering for local charities or organizations. Giving back to the community can be immensely rewarding. Offer to sit with, or do some housekeeping for an elderly individual or coupls.
2. Learn New Skills: Take this opportunity to learn new skills or hobbies. Whether it’s cooking, painting, or learning a musical instrument, self-improvement can be fulfilling. 
3. Fitness and Health: Focus on your well-being by joining a fitness class, taking up yoga, or going for regular walks. Physical activity is not only good for your health but also a great stress reliever.
4. Travel: If circumstances permit, consider exploring new places. Traveling can be a wonderful way to relax and recharge.
5. Professional Development: If you want to further your career, consider taking courses or pursuing a degree in your field of interest. You can start or finish a degree, or get certified in an area you are passionate about such as; therapy assistant, paraprofessional, piano tuning, and more. 

Transitioning from homeschooling to an empty nest can be a bit daunting, but it’s also a chance to rediscover yourself and explore new opportunities. This time period gives you an opportunity to set aside some additional funds for travel or other needed expenses as you head toward retirement years. 

Browse decor inspiration for a home refresh.

Whether you choose part-time jobs, remote work, or other pursuits, the key is to stay active and continue growing. Embrace this new chapter in your life with enthusiasm, and you’ll find that endless possibilities are waiting for you. Your homeschooling journey has equipped you with valuable skills and experiences that can benefit both you and the world around you. Enjoy this exciting new phase!