Perhaps you’ve tried several curricula, asked the advice of a few friends, joined a co-op, watched the videos, and even tweaked the approach a time or two. Yet, something still isn’t working—and now you’re wondering, “Do I need outside help?”

If that’s where you are: you’re not alone. Truly.

In homeschooling, there’s a quiet myth that you must do everything yourself. But the reality is this: homeschooling is deeply personalized journey, but it was never meant to be done alone. Needing help is not only normal—it’s a sign that you’re actually in-tune to your family needs.

Recognizing when it’s time for professional help

Sometimes, no matter how resourceful or dedicated you may be, the challenges you’re facing call for reinforcements. Reaching out to a professional can bring clarity, relief, and fresh momentum to your homeschool journey.

Here are some signs that a homeschool-friendly professional might be your next best step:

  • You’ve tried multiple approaches, but your child is not making the expected progress with at-home solutions and is still struggling with reading, math, writing, or focus.
  • You suspect your child may have dyslexia, dysgraphia, ADHD, or another learning difference.
  • Your child has a complex medical or psychological diagnosis (e.g., autism spectrum disorder, severe ADHD, cerebral palsy).
  • Your child becomes increasingly anxious or upset during lessons or has repeated emotional outbursts in response to learning.
  • Your child shows signs of severe anxiety, depression, or other mental health struggles
  • You’re constantly overwhelmed and feel unsure how to modify curriculum, track progress, or meet state requirements.
  • You're a single parent, working parent, or caregiving for multiple children and can't do it all alone.

Common types of homeschool-friendly professionals

You don’t need a massive team, just the right person for your needs. Consider one of these professionals:

  • Educational Consultants – Help you create learning plans, modify curriculum, or align goals with state requirements.
  • Special Education Consultants – Support children with IEPs, 504 plans, or suspected learning differences.
  • Tutors – Provide subject-specific instruction or test prep tailored to your child’s pace and learning style.
  • Speech or Occupational Therapists – Help with language development, fine motor skills, or sensory regulation.
  • Therapists or Behavior Specialists – Assist with emotional challenges, anxiety, or executive functioning needs.
  • Psychoeducational Evaluators – Provide formal assessments for learning disabilities or giftedness.

If you are specifically considering a therapist for special needs, here is a great article that dives deeper into therapy for homeschoolers.

HOW CAN MY FAMILY AFFORD PROFESSIONAL HELP?

Perhaps you’re in a situation where you know you need outside help, but you’re not sure how to make it work financially for your family.

Your family may be eligible for an HSLDA Curriculum Grant, which can be used toward most of the professionals listed above. Learn more about Curriculum Grants.

Steps to finding the right professional

Finding the right professional starts with identifying your specific needs, asking trusted sources for recommendations, and choosing someone who respects your role as the primary educator. Finding a trusted partner doesn't have to be overwhelming. Here’s how to begin:

1. Clarify the challenge

Write down exactly what concerns you. Be specific. Is it spelling? Focus? Anger during math? Transitions? This helps professionals understand how to support your family.

2. Ask for recommendations

To find a professional that could work for your family, start with your network—your state or local homeschool group, a Facebook community, or even your pediatrician. Ask, “Do you know anyone who works well with homeschoolers?”

If your child has a learning difference or special needs and you’re considering therapy, check out this article for additional help finding a therapist.

3. Look for ‘homeschool-friendly’ markers

A great fit will understand your flexibility and values. You want someone who:

  • Respects your role as the primary educator
  • Supports learning in nontraditional formats
  • Offers customizable or collaborative plans

4. Schedule a discovery call or consultation

Don’t be afraid to “interview” professionals. Ask:

  • Have you worked with homeschoolers before?
  • How do you typically support families?
  • Do you offer flexible meeting formats (online, phone, in-person)?

You can even ask for references from other homeschooling families they have worked with.

Want a list of in-depth questions to ask professionals to make sure they’re a good fit? Check out this member-exclusive article with 11 screening questions.

5. Start small if needed

If you’re unsure about long-term commitments, begin with one session, one evaluation, or one consultation. It’s okay to take it one step at a time.

Observe a session to see how they interact with your child and ask your child for their impression and comfort level after-the-fact.

Support that strengthens, not replaces

Bringing in a professional doesn’t replace you—it supports you. You are still the guide, the nurturer, the decision-maker. A professional simply adds another layer of insight or strategy so that your homeschool can flourish.