Questions About Unschooling? Get Answers Before the New School Year
Maybe You Don't Need More Information
Are homeschooling or unschooling questions stealing your summer?
If you're worrying about fall, wondering whether you're doing enough, or trying to figure out your next step, you're not alone. In this episode, Sue Patterson shares why so many parents feel stuck in uncertainty—and how to move forward with more confidence.
"I was overwhelmed, confused, and had lots and lots of questions."
— Stacy, California
Welcome to the Unschooling Mom2Mom Podcast!
I’m your host, Sue Patterson, and I want to help you
feel more comfortable with the concept of unschooling!
My own 3 kids are in their 30s and I’ve seen what
works and what doesnt. I want to share all of that with you.
Why So Many Parents Feel Overwhelmed Before a New School Year
Before the New School Year recording now in June. Even though we’re just moving into summer, a lot of parents are starting to think about fall. They don’t want a repeat of what just happened.
Maybe some of you are wondering whether to continue homeschooling or even consider unschooling.
Some of you have already started but you're questioning everything - maybe even lying awake at night wondering if you're making a terrible mistake.
Or maybe you have a list of questions following you around everywhere you go.
- What about math or socialization?
- What if my teen isn't motivated - how will they get into college?
- Do I have the right temperament to do this?
Instead of letting those questions hang over your head all summer, let's talk about them. Let's talk this through together. I can help you sort through what's really happening in your family so you can spend less time worrying about fall and more time enjoying the summer that's right in front of you.
That's actually why I wanted to talk about coaching today.
Not because I think everyone needs a coach.
But because after nearly thirty years in this unschooling community, I've noticed something.
When Information Isn't the Problem
Most parents don't come to me because they need more information.
They come to me because they're overwhelmed by all the information.
They've listened to podcasts.
They've read books, they’ve gotten the PDFs.
They've joined Facebook groups and watched YouTube videos.
And somehow…. they feel more confused than when they started.
So I want to share some scenarios that might sound familiar.
The Parent Who Was Afraid Her Teen Was Falling Behind
One mom came to me because her teen seemed interested in nothing except gaming.
She was terrified.
Every day felt like evidence that she was failing.
What if he never catches up?
What if he never finds his passion?
What if I'm letting him waste his life?
By the end of our conversation, nothing about her son had changed.
But everything about how she saw him had changed.
She could finally separate fear from reality.
She left with a workable plan and a whole lot less anxiety.
The Child Who Didn't Fit the Plan
Another mom described herself as having "that kid."
The child who didn't seem to fit what everyone else said homeschooling should look like.
They challenged every plan and she was constantly questioning and second-guessing herself.
She worried about anxiety and criticism.
She wasn’t really sure she could keep going like this.
She later told me that coaching helped her see possibilities she couldn't see when she was stuck in fear.
Exploring Unschooling Without Having All the Answers
And then there are the parents who are simply trying to figure out whether unschooling might work for their family.
One mom wrote to me saying she arrived overwhelmed, confused, and carrying lots and lots of questions.
She left feeling informed, reassured, and confident.
Not because I convinced her of anything.
Because she finally had space to talk through her concerns with someone who had been there before.
Why Coaching Creates Confidence
One of my coaching clients said something that has always stuck with me.
She wrote:
"Sue listens. She roots out the triggers, provides objective views, and offers solutions that you wouldn't see because you're often mired in emotion."
I think that's what my coaching is really about.
When we're scared, it's hard to see clearly.
If we're overwhelmed, every problem feels bigger than it is.
And then add in the isolation... we can start believing our fears are facts.
Sometimes You Need a Conversation, Not Another Article
Sometimes what we need isn't another article.
We need a conversation.
We need someone who can help us sort through the noise and help us distinguish between what is happening and what we're afraid might happen.
I’m here to remind you that there are no educational emergencies.
And that learning doesn't have to look like school to be real.
"I left thinking, 'I can do this... my family can do this.'"
— Melanie
Get Answers Before Fall Arrives
If you're feeling uncertain about fall, this might be a good time to talk.
You don't have to be completely committed to unschooling.
You don't have to have everything figured out.
You don't even have to know exactly what questions to ask.
You just need a willingness to explore what might work better for your family.
For the month of June, I'm offering my 30 minute coaching calls - one-on-one - for half price.
If you'd like some help sorting through your questions before the crazy back-to-school season arrives, I would love to talk with you.
Because you don't have to do this alone.
Sometimes a single conversation can change everything.
You don't have to spend the next three months worrying about September.
If there are questions looming overhead, let's talk about them now.
Let's sort through the fears, the what-ifs, and the uncertainty so you can enjoy your summer knowing you have a plan—or at least a clearer path forward
For the month of June, my one-on-one coaching calls are 50% off. If you'd like help sorting through your questions before fall arrives, I'd love to talk with you.
"I was amazed at how in just one simple exchange about what is going on with me and my children, I was able to move past each issue that was brought up with such confidence.
What seemed to be a mountain of a problem before, was now simple with attainable goals.
Every day, I use the tools Sue offered and am so thankful that the future is seen with delight versus anxiety and fear."
— Joanna
Frequently Asked Questions About Unschooling and Coaching
→ How do I know if unschooling is right for my family?
Unschooling looks different in every family. The goal isn't to copy someone else's approach but to create a learning environment that works for your children, your values, and your circumstances. Many families start by exploring individualization, relationship-building, and learning beyond traditional curriculum.
→ What if I'm interested in unschooling but not fully committed?
That's completely normal. You don't have to be 100% committed to unschooling before exploring it. Many parents use coaching to sort through their questions, concerns, and options before deciding what works best for their family. It's ok to like some of it and be unsure about the rest. We can talk about it!
→ My teen only wants to play video games. Is that normal?
Many parents worry when their teens spend a lot of time gaming. Often, gaming is only one part of a larger picture. Understanding your teen's interests, needs, and stage of development can help you see opportunities for growth and learning that aren't always obvious at first.
→ How can I feel more confident about homeschooling or unschooling?
Confidence usually comes from experience, support, and understanding—not from having all the answers. Talking through your concerns, learning from experienced families, and focusing on your own child's needs can help reduce fear and increase confidence.
→ What happens during an unschooling coaching session?
A coaching session is a chance to talk through your unique situation, ask questions, explore concerns, and create practical next steps. Every family is different, so coaching focuses on helping you find solutions that fit your children and your goals. We can talk over the phone or set up a Zoom call - your choice!
→ Can coaching help if I'm transitioning from homeschooling to unschooling?
Yes. Many parents seek coaching during the transition from traditional homeschooling to unschooling. Coaching can help you navigate deschooling, address fears about academics, and develop a more individualized approach to learning.
→ What are the most common fears parents have about unschooling?
Many parents worry about academics, socialization, motivation, college preparation, learning gaps, and criticism from others. These concerns are common and often become easier to navigate when viewed through the lens of real-life unschooling experiences and long-term outcomes.
