I know what it’s like. You pour your heart and soul into your business, stealing quiet moments during nap times or late into the night. You’re juggling the beautiful chaos of motherhood with the ambitious drive of an entrepreneur. But what happens when you add another, equally demanding role to your life—homeschooling your children?
You might be wondering if it’s even possible to be successful at both. Can you really build a thriving business and a thriving family? I’m here to tell you that you don’t have to choose. On a recent episode of The Visionary Mom podcast, I had the honor of speaking with Elan Page, the founder of Homeschool Our Way. She is a living example of how these two worlds can not only coexist but enrich each other.
Our conversation was filled with so much honesty and practical wisdom. We talked about everything from the initial leap into homeschooling to the real-life systems needed to balance it all. This guide will walk you through the key takeaways from our chat, offering actionable tips for any mom entrepreneur considering this journey.
Why Blending Homeschool and Business Works
It’s one thing to run a business from home; it’s another to be your child’s primary educator at the same time. The thought alone can feel overwhelming. Elan shared that for her, the journey began with a clear “why.” Understanding your core reason for choosing this path becomes the anchor that holds you steady through the inevitable challenges.
For many of us, our children are our greatest motivation. They watch everything we do. When they see us pursuing our dreams, building something from scratch, and facing challenges with grace, we are teaching them one of life’s most valuable lessons. Elan reminded us that running a business can be one of the greatest educational tools you offer your kids. They get a front-row seat to entrepreneurship, learning about passion, resilience, and hard work just by watching you.
Instead of seeing them as separate worlds, what if homeschooling could actually fuel your entrepreneurial spirit? What if the flexibility of homeschooling gave you more space for your business, and your business provided real-world learning opportunities for your kids? It’s a powerful shift in perspective that can transform your approach to both.
Navigating the Challenges of Working and Homeschooling
Let’s be real for a moment. This journey isn’t always easy. There are days when the house is a mess, the deadlines are looming, and the kids need you all at once. I’ve been there, trying to schedule a conference call around a baby who isn’t on a nap schedule yet. It’s tough.
Elan was incredibly open about the obstacles she faced. She shared that one of the biggest challenges was managing her time and energy to avoid burnout. It’s not about finding a perfect, magical balance that eliminates all stress. It’s about creating systems and routines that support your well-being and your family’s needs.
Here are a few core strategies we discussed for overcoming these hurdles:
Create a Flexible Rhythm
Forget the rigid 9-to-5 schedule. The beauty of being a homeschool mom who works from home is that you can design a rhythm that works for your family. This might mean working in focused blocks while your kids do independent activities. It could also mean shifting your work hours to the early morning or late evening when the house is quiet. The key is to find a flow that honors your energy levels and your children’s needs.
Communicate Expectations
Our little ones thrive on predictability. Elan emphasized the importance of talking to her kids about the day’s plan. When they know what to expect—when mommy is working and when it’s time to play—it creates a smoother flow for everyone. A simple chat the night before can set the tone for a more cooperative and peaceful day.
Embrace Imperfection
Some days will be more productive than others, and that’s perfectly okay. The goal isn’t perfection; it’s progress. On days when things don’t go as planned, give yourself grace. Building a life that feels aligned with your values is a journey, not a destination. Celebrate the small wins and remember that you are doing an incredible job.
Practical Homeschooling Tips for Mom Entrepreneurs
If you’re reading this and feeling that pull toward homeschooling but are nervous about managing it with your business, this part is for you. Elan’s advice was both practical and deeply encouraging. She stressed that you don’t need to have it all figured out before you begin.
Her biggest piece of advice? Start small. You don’t have to replicate a traditional school day at home. Begin by integrating learning into your daily life. A trip to the grocery store can be a math lesson. A walk in the park can be a science lesson. It’s about fostering a love of learning in a way that feels natural and joyful for both you and your children.
Another key is to lean on your community. Connect with other homeschool moms or mompreneurs who are on a similar path. Share your struggles, celebrate your wins, and learn from each other. Building a support system is crucial. You are not alone in this.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a typical “work from home/homeschool mom schedule” look like?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, as it depends on your business, your children’s ages, and your family’s rhythm. Many moms use a “block scheduling” method, dedicating specific chunks of time to work, lessons, and free play. For example, a morning block for focused schoolwork, an afternoon for independent activities and your work, and evenings for family time.
How do you handle childcare while running a business?
This is a common challenge for homeschooling entrepreneurs. Many find creative solutions like co-ops with other homeschooling families, hiring a part-time mother’s helper, or utilizing flexible childcare options. It often involves a combination of strategies tailored to different seasons of business and family life.
What are the first steps to start homeschooling?
Begin by researching your state’s homeschooling laws. Then, think about your educational philosophy. Do you prefer a structured curriculum or a more child-led approach? Join online communities and talk to other homeschooling families to gather resources and advice. Remember, you can start simple and adjust as you go.
Build a Life That Honors Your Dreams
At the end of a long day, after the kids are in bed and the work is done, I often sit in the quiet and feel so proud of what I’ve accomplished. I am a mom to two beautiful girls and an online business owner. I love the creativity that flows in those quiet moments.
This journey of homeschooling while building a business is about more than just checking items off a to-do list. It’s about designing a life that honors both your dreams and your family. It’s about showing your children that they can pursue their passions without sacrificing what matters most. Elan’s story is a powerful reminder that it’s possible. It’s messy, it’s beautiful, and it’s absolutely worth it. Connect with her at Homeschool Our Way.
If this conversation resonates with you, I encourage you to listen to the full episode. Elan shares so many more insights, practical systems, and words of wisdom that will leave you feeling inspired and ready to take your next step with confidence.
Listen to the full episode with Elan Page on The Visionary Mom podcast now!