top of page
  • Black Facebook Icon
  • Black YouTube Icon
  • Black Instagram Icon
  • Black Pinterest Icon

Why 3rd Grade is the Hardest Year for Homeschoolers (And How to Navigate It)

Writer's picture: Sarah MillerSarah Miller

3rd grade is the hardest year

If you’ve been homeschooling your child, you might have heard whispers in the homeschooling community about how third grade is a game changer. For many families, this is the year when the struggles seem to pile up, doubts creep in, and everything feels...hard. Why is this particular year so tough? What makes third grade the point where many families decide to throw in the towel on homeschooling? Let’s unpack why this stage is so challenging, and more importantly, how you can navigate it with confidence and grace.


Reason #1: The Transition from Play-Based Learning to Academics


In the early years, homeschooling often feels like a joyful blend of play, exploration, and child-led learning. But by third grade, the expectations shift. For many families, the focus turns toward more academics—multiplication tables, longer writing assignments, and detailed science experiments. While your child might still crave playful, hands-on learning, the curriculum may now demand more sitting and focus. 


Practical Advice: Make this transition gradual. Incorporate play into lessons whenever possible. For example, turn multiplication practice into a game with flashcards or incorporate movement like jumping jacks to reinforce concepts. Keep a balance between academic rigor and the joy of discovery.


Reason #2: The Second Plane of Development (Montessori Insights)


This reason and reason #1 combined are the two main (conflicting) challenges making this third grade year so hard. According to Montessori philosophy, children around age 6-12 enter the “second plane of development.” This phase is marked by a growing curiosity about the world, a need for independence, and the ability to think more abstractly. Although this phase CAN happen by age 6, oftentimes it does not happen until age 8 or 9. When I taught in the Montessori classroom, we always knew a child hit this developmental stage because, all of a sudden, they had messier tendencies than before. (messy workrugs = the second plane has arrived!) 


By third grade, your child is freshly in the second plane of development and may begin questioning the “why” behind rules, processes, and subjects they previously accepted without hesitation. They’re also developing socially, which may lead to increased interest in group learning or interactions outside the home. And yet, this all seems countered by my previous point of transitioning to more academics. These conflicting changes are making this third grade year hard. 


Practical Advice: Many parents see these second plane “wild” changes in their child and think they need a more structured environment to reign them back in, but this assumption is flawed.  Embrace their curiosity and independence! Use open-ended questions during lessons to spark deeper thinking, and allow your child to take ownership of certain aspects of their learning. Offer opportunities for socialization—whether through co-ops, extracurricular activities, or regular playdates with peers.


Reason #3: The Homeschooling Parent Needs an Outlet


For parents, third grade can feel like a turning point. By this stage, you’ve been homeschooling for a few years, and the “honeymoon phase” may be fading. Perhaps you’re feeling burned out or starting to crave personal or professional fulfillment outside of homeschooling. It’s common to feel like you’ve lost a sense of balance in your life.


Practical Advice: Give yourself permission to prioritize your own needs. Carve out time for hobbies, side projects, or self-care. Whether it’s joining a book club, starting a part-time job, or simply setting aside an hour a day for uninterrupted “me time,” your mental well-being will directly impact the success of your homeschooling journey. Remember, a fulfilled and happy parent is a more effective educator.


Reason #4: Many Homeschoolers Quit at This Stage


Here’s a sobering statistic: a significant number of homeschool families stop homeschooling by third grade. Why? The reasons vary—feeling overwhelmed by the increased academic demands, struggling with that second plane of development, fear of “falling behind,” or simply deciding traditional schooling might be a better fit. This can be discouraging for those still homeschooling by third grade, especially if you’re already doubting your abilities.


Practical Advice: Resist the urge to compare your journey to others’. Take time to reflect on your “why” for homeschooling and remind yourself of your goals. If you’re struggling, seek support from other homeschooling families, online communities, or local co-ops. Sometimes, tweaking your approach—switching curriculum, outsourcing certain subjects, or joining a hybrid program—can make all the difference.


A Fresh Perspective on Third Grade Challenges


While third grade is undoubtedly a challenging year, it’s also an incredible opportunity to grow as both an educator and a parent. Your child is developing critical thinking skills, learning independence, and becoming more curious about the world. These are the moments that make homeschooling so rewarding—when you witness those lightbulb moments and help nurture a lifelong love of learning.


Practical Advice: Focus on progress, not perfection. Celebrate the small wins, whether it’s finally mastering a tricky math concept or finding a book series your child loves. Keep in mind that homeschooling doesn’t have to look like traditional school—it can be flexible, dynamic, and tailored to your family’s unique needs.


Conclusion: 3rd Grade is the Hardest Year for Homeschoolers But You CAN Do It!


Third grade may be one of the hardest years for homeschoolers, but it’s also a year filled with growth, potential, and possibilities. By understanding the challenges—whether it’s the shift in academics, your child’s developmental stage, or your own need for balance—you can approach this season with a practical plan and a positive mindset. You’ve made it this far, and with a little creativity and determination, you can navigate third grade and beyond.


Recent Posts

See All

Comments


As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. 

© 2025 by Wonder Grow Learn. Powered and secured by Wix

  • Instagram
  • YouTube
  • Facebook
  • Pinterest
bottom of page