Is It A Privilege? | Real Talk About Privilege in Homeschooling & Real Life
Let’s Talk About It: What Even Is Privilege?
Okay, I know talking about privilege can make people squirm. It’s a buzzword that sparks all kinds of reactions—guilt, frustration, confusion, maybe even eye-rolls. But let’s take a breath, because here’s the truth: privilege isn’t about blame or shame. It’s just about being honest with ourselves.
I circle back to this topic a lot, especially in the homeschool world, because it matters. Not everyone gets the same starting line in life—and not everyone has the option to homeschool. Recognizing that isn’t weakness; it’s wisdom.
(Also, if you’re new here, hi! I’m so glad you’re in this space. Be sure to join our newsletter for more honest convos like this and follow us over @makingeverydaymagic for a peek into our days.)
What Is Privilege, Really?
The Basics: What Counts As Privilege?
Let’s break it down. Privilege is anything that gives you a leg up—usually without you even asking for it. It’s not about having a yacht and ten houses (though hey, that’s definitely a kind of privilege). It’s more like: Can you take a sick day and still pay rent? Do you have reliable internet? Can you choose what’s for dinner tonight instead of just what you can afford? That’s privilege.
The Stuff You’re Born With (and Don’t Always Notice)
Some things you’re just born into—like your race, your family’s income, or the neighborhood you grew up in. Others you might earn over time. But even when you work hard, your starting point still matters. And some advantages? Totally invisible to the people who have them.
Think: being conventionally attractive, having strong social connections, or just knowing someone who can help you out. All that stuff adds up—and it shapes our lives in ways we might not always see.
My Perspective: Where Privilege Shows Up
It’s Not Bad to Have Privilege—It’s About What You Do With It
Here’s the deal: privilege isn’t a dirty word. If anything, it can be a tool. Something that gives you the cushion to try again, dream bigger, or just breathe easier. When you acknowledge it, you’re not saying you didn’t work hard. You’re saying you see the full picture—and that matters.
Your Story Might Not Be Everyone’s Story
I live a life with a lot of freedoms. I’ve made choices that reflect my values, and I’m grateful for that. But I also know there are people out there who don’t get those choices—not because they didn’t try, but because their starting point looked different. That’s where compassion comes in.
Privilege in Everyday Life—Yes, Even Vacations
We love to talk about “choices” like they happen in a vacuum. Like, “Oh, they choose not to travel,” or “They don’t prioritize that.” But often, the real reason is: they can’t afford to. Not financially. Not logistically. Not emotionally.
Planning a vacation, taking a break, even choosing your work hours—these aren’t just choices. They’re privileges. And the sooner we realize that, the more understanding we become.
So… Is It A Privilege To Homeschool?
Yup. It absolutely is.
Homeschooling takes time, space, and often money. Not everyone has access to those things. Some families are scraping by, working multiple jobs, living paycheck to paycheck. The idea of staying home to teach your kids might feel like a fantasy in that world.
But here’s the twist: even for those of us doing it, homeschooling often comes with sacrifice. Lost income, paused careers, fewer “extras.” It can be both a privilege and a trade-off. And that’s okay to acknowledge.
When Homeschooling Isn’t an Option
Let’s be clear: if you’re struggling to keep the lights on or food on the table, homeschooling might not be the right fit. And that’s not a failure. That’s survival. Prioritizing safety, stability, and mental health is always the right call. Full stop.
If you’re in that spot, please hear me—it’s okay to get help. That’s strength, not weakness.
What Happens When We Recognize Our Privilege?
We Get More Grateful
When we see the things we didn’t have to fight for, we get more thankful for the things we have. And our kids do, too. They start to notice how lucky they are to learn at home, have meals on the table, or sleep in a safe space.
We Parent With More Empathy
Knowing that not everyone has the same options makes us more compassionate. It helps us raise kids who understand that their normal isn’t everyone’s normal—and that’s powerful.
We Take Action
Once you see the bigger picture, it’s hard to unsee it. Maybe you start donating to organizations that support families in need. Maybe you speak up for better access to education. Maybe you just start modeling kindness and awareness at home. All of it matters.
Some Simple, Real-Life Ways To Practice Awareness
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Reflect: Ask yourself what parts of your life feel “easy.” That’s often where privilege shows up.
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Talk to your kids: Keep it age-appropriate, but don’t avoid hard truths. They can handle more than we give them credit for.
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Give when you can: Money, time, compassion, a kind word—it all counts.
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Stay humble: You don’t have to have all the answers. You just have to stay open to learning.
Final Thoughts: It’s Not About Guilt, It’s About Growth
Recognizing privilege isn’t a trap. It’s a gift. A chance to understand more, love better, and move through the world with open eyes. So… Is it a privilege? Sometimes, yes. And knowing that doesn’t make you a bad person—it makes you a better one.
Let’s do what we can, with what we have, where we are.
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