Are online courses enough to teach life skills to homeschoolers, or is hands-on support better?
Wendy’s Answer:
Online courses can be helpful for understanding what life skills are—but they often fall short when it comes to actually building them.
Many homeschool families tell me they’ve tried courses, checklists, or programs, yet their child still struggles to get started, stay focused, or follow through. That’s because life skills aren’t learned by watching or reading alone—they’re learned by doing, with support.
Here’s where online courses often fall short:
Skills are taught in theory, not practiced in real-life spaces
There’s little accountability to help children follow through
Parents are still expected to implement and reinforce everything
Children who struggle with executive function may freeze or avoid starting
Hands-on life skills support fills those gaps by allowing skills to be practiced:
In real time, not just on a screen
In real spaces, like bedrooms, school areas, and daily routines
With real emotions involved, including frustration, overwhelm, and resistance
With guidance that adapts to the child’s pace and needs
For many families, the missing piece isn’t more information—it’s accountability, guidance, and someone outside the family helping implement skills consistently. This is especially important for children who struggle with executive function, anxiety, or decision-making.
Life skills support works best when it meets the child where they are and removes pressure from the parent to be the sole teacher.
💙 Want to learn more about hands-on life skills support for homeschoolers?
You can explore my approach on the Life Skills Decluttering for Homeschoolers page.
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