Homeschooling
Life After High School: College, Trade, or Other?
Should Homeschoolers Prepare for College or Trades? Here Is What I Tell Parents
Recently in several homeschool groups, I have seen the same question appear again and again. Parents are asking if they should prepare their child for college or for a trade school. It is a great question and it usually comes from a place of love and worry. Every parent wants to make the right choice for their child.
I always tell my daughter to go to college for the career she wants to pursue. I also tell her to take a business class and make sure she networks. At the same time, I encourage her to earn a certificate in a trade. A trade can offer security and flexibility. It is a great backup that she can always use while she works toward her main goals.
But here is the important part. This conversation is not really about college versus trades. It is about being prepared for any future path.
Why Preparation Matters in Homeschooling
I know many homeschoolers. Over the years I have noticed that the families who plan ahead are the ones who feel most confident when it is time for applications and deadlines. From the very beginning I made it a mission to put my daughter in programs. Part of that was because she is an only child and needed community. Another part was because, like any parent, I sometimes needed time to myself.
But the larger reason was preparation. When it came time for her college and program applications, she needed several letters of recommendation. Those letters would not have been possible without the choir programs, theater classes, art groups, community workshops, and neighborhood activities she participated in. Every program gave her a new mentor who knew her well. Every activity gave her a chance to grow and shine.
That is the real message I want to share today. Set your child up so that when opportunities appear, they are ready.
How Homeschool Parents Can Prepare Their Children for College
Homeschoolers are absolutely capable of thriving in college. Many colleges love homeschoolers because they tend to be independent thinkers and strong self directed learners. The key is preparation long before senior year.
Here are simple and practical steps any homeschool family can take.
1. Build an Academic Plan Early
Create a four year high school outline. Include math, science, English, social studies, and electives. Colleges want to see that your child has a steady academic record that looks similar to a traditional high school plan.
2. Encourage Activities and Clubs
This can include sports, youth groups, music lessons, community theater, coding clubs, art classes, robotics, internships, and volunteer work. Colleges care about what a student does outside of academics. These experiences also give them rich stories to write about in essays.
3. Focus on Writing Skills
College applications require personal statements, short responses, and scholarship essays. Even if your child is not planning on a four year university, writing is a life skill. Regular writing practice at home prepares them to express themselves clearly and confidently.
4. Help Your Child Build Relationships with Mentors
Strong recommendation letters come from adults who know your child well. This includes coaches, instructors, program directors, volunteer coordinators, or employers. Homeschooling gives families freedom to choose meaningful mentors.
5. Keep Records and Portfolios
Save writing samples, projects, transcripts, certificates, and volunteer hours. Documentation helps with applications for colleges, internships, and scholarships.
6. Teach Basic Life and Study Skills
Time management, scheduling, communication, and organization are crucial skills. Homeschooling is a great environment to practice these skills every day.
7. Discuss Different Paths Without Pressure
Some students thrive in college. Others do well in trade schools, apprenticeships, entrepreneurship, or creative careers. You are not choosing a single future path for your child. You are preparing them for any path they choose.
So, What’s Your Plan
Whether your child chooses college, trades, or something entirely different, preparation is the real gift you can give them. Homeschooling creates a flexible environment where students can explore interests, build confidence, and form meaningful connections. When parents help create these opportunities, doors open in every direction.