There’s this idea that if you’re a single mom, you can’t possibly homeschool and run a business.
I’m here to tell you that the idea is flat-out wrong.
Homeschooling and entrepreneurship don’t have to compete. In fact, if you set things up with intention, they can actually support each other. As someone who’s been homeschooling for over 16 years—and recently stepped into single motherhood—this post is both personal and practical. If you're a single mom wondering how to make it work, this one’s for you.
The Unexpected Shift That Changed Everything
A year ago, I couldn’t have imagined sharing this part of my story.
My marriage of 16 years came to an end. It was complicated—deeply personal and intertwined with some very hard things like domestic violence, legal systems, and life-altering decisions. But this isn’t a story about sadness. It’s about strength. It’s about hope. And it’s about what’s possible—even when your life takes an unexpected turn.
Now, I’m a single mom, raising a teenager and running two businesses. And guess what? I’m still homeschooling.
If you’re navigating single motherhood or considering it, I want you to know: you’re not alone, and you can do this.
Homeschooling as a Single Mom Entrepreneur Works—Here’s Why
1. Homeschooling Actually Saves Time
Let’s be honest—getting kids out the door to public school every day is a full-time job in itself. Packing lunches, morning chaos, commuting, carpool lines, after-school activities, and hours of homework—it all adds up.
When I talk to other single mom entrepreneurs in the Homeschool CEO community, they say the same thing: homeschooling gives them time back.
Even when I had four kids under eight, we never spent more than three hours a day homeschooling. That flexibility meant I could grocery shop during the day, avoid rush-hour errands, and design a schedule that supported my business and my sanity.
Homeschooling gives you control over your time—and that’s priceless when you're running everything solo.
2. Think Like a CEO: Stop Doing It All
As a single mom, you’re already doing so much. But doing everything isn’t sustainable—and it’s not required.
One of the biggest shifts I teach (and live) is running your home and business like a CEO. That means:
- Delegating chores to your kids
- Automating where possible
- Letting go of what doesn’t move the needle
I stopped doing laundry when my oldest turned 10. That wasn’t selfish—it was strategic. Teaching kids to help out gives them purpose and gives you breathing room.
Need help with meals? Batch them. Tired of hands-on curriculum? Choose online programs or co-ops that lighten your load. Ask for help where you can, whether it’s from family, friends, or paid support.
You’re not failing when you stop doing it all—you’re leading like a CEO.
3. There’s No One Right Way—Build a Homeschool That Fits Your Life
The beauty of homeschooling as an entrepreneur is that you can throw out the rulebook.
Want to homeschool in the evenings after work? Go for it. Prefer a four-day homeschool week so you can dedicate Fridays to business? Perfect.
Your homeschool doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. And it shouldn’t.
You might be navigating custody arrangements, court dates, teen emotions, or toddler chaos—so build a rhythm that actually works for you. Whether it’s Charlotte Mason, unschooling, online programs, or a mix of all three—it’s your call.
Homeschooling is about learning, not replicating school at home.
How to Make It All Work (Even on the Hard Days)
You don’t need to read every homeschool blog or plan Pinterest-perfect unit studies. You need systems. You need support. And most of all, you need permission to make this work your way.
Here’s what I recommend:
- Time block your week: Carve out focused time for business, homeschooling, rest, and self-care.
- Build a flexible schedule: Don’t aim for perfect days—plan for progress.
- Create a portfolio: Track what your kids are learning. It keeps you focused and helps with custody or accountability if needed.
- Join a community: Homeschool CEO is here for you. We even have a subgroup just for single moms who are building businesses.
Give Yourself Grace—and Keep Going
Some days your business will need you more. Some days your kids will. And some days, you’ll just need a nap and some peace and quiet. That’s okay.
You’re allowed to change your schedule, rest, and not be everything to everyone all the time.
That doesn’t make you a bad mom. That makes you human.
Homeschooling while running a business as a single mom takes grit, vision, and a whole lot of grace. But you are more than capable.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you're ready to set up a homeschool rhythm that fits your life and your business.
🎧 Listen to the episode. You’ll learn how to create a flexible plan, streamline your days, and get the support you need—without sacrificing your goals or your sanity. You’ve got this—and we’re with you.
