Homeschooling teenagers brings new freedoms—and new challenges. In this episode, Ginny and Mary Ellen share practical advice for helping teens manage schoolwork, use technology wisely, and gradually take responsibility for the choices that will shape their lives as adults.

Show Notes:

Laurie contacted us on Facebook and asked for advice about homeschooling teens. Since both of us homeschooled children through high school graduation, she came to the right place.

The teen years will be much easier if you start preparing before those pesky hormones arrive.

1. ESTABLISH AUTHORITY EARLY

You don’t need to be mean or harsh. But you will never regret teaching your children obedience and respect.

• Set reasonable rules and expect respectful behavior
• Teach self-control
• Follow through

This is key: Teenagers don’t suddenly develop self-discipline on their thirteenth birthday.

2. TEACH PRACTICAL SKILLS

Before high school, children should already be contributing to family life.

• Load the dishwasher and do laundry
• Vacuum and mop
• Mow the lawn and wash the car

As they get older, encourage them to take ownership of household responsibilities.

Hint: You may begin to see your teenager as a contributing member of the family.

3. EXPECT COURTESY

Modesty matters—but so does how teenagers speak and behave.

Teach them to say:

• Please and thank you
• Do you mind?
• How can I help?

Teenagers should also understand that younger siblings are watching them.

4. HAVE AN ACADEMIC PLAN

Teenagers should take increasing responsibility for their schoolwork, but they still need a plan.

• Set timelines and make expectations clear
• Check progress regularly
• Watch subjects they tend to avoid

It is very easy for a teen to work on favorite subjects and suddenly discover in May that chemistry or English is barely started.

5. CHECK IN REGULARLY

Independence does not mean no oversight.

Set a regular time to review:

• What has been completed and what is falling behind
• What needs more attention
• What deadlines are coming

Remember: Teens tend to work on the subjects they like first.

6. WATCH THE DEVICES

Teens may need computers for assignments and phones for driving and GPS.

But social media can be toxic.

• Use parental oversight tools and know what your children are using
• Establish device rules
• Consider a family charging station at night

Good kids still need protection.

7. KEEP THEM BUSY

A solid high school day still leaves plenty of time.

Fill some of it with:

• Paid work
• Volunteer work
• Sports, music, dance, theatre

Productive activity helps teenagers develop skills, responsibility, and confidence.

8. DON’T ARGUE

Even good teenagers will test the rules.

Increasingly, they should experience the consequences of their own choices.

When Mom and Dad do need to step in, be clear and firm.

Finally: Don’t waste hours arguing or trying to make your teenager admit that you are wise. You may be waiting a very long time.

A Final Encouragement

The goal of homeschooling a teenager isn’t to control every decision. It is to gradually prepare a young person to manage schoolwork, responsibilities, relationships, technology, and eventually life without you standing over his or her shoulder.

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