Homeschool Perks You Might Not Know About (But Totally Should!) 🤩
One of the biggest myths about homeschooling is that families miss out on opportunities, discounts, and resources available to traditional students and teachers. In reality? Homeschoolers often have access to more flexibility, perks, and savings — they’re just not always advertised.
If you’ve been homeschooling for years or are just getting started, here’s a list of things homeschool families can have, do, and access that many don’t even realize exist.
1. Teacher IDs & Educator Discounts (Yes, Really!)
Many homeschool parents qualify as educators and can receive teacher discounts, even without working in a public or private school.
How it works:
I made a video on how to make one HERE
You may be able to get a homeschool teacher ID through:
Homeschool organizations or associations
Your private homeschool affidavit (in states like California)
Online educator verification systems (some accept homeschool documentation)
Common teacher discounts include:
Office supply stores (paper, ink, learning materials)
Craft stores
Thrift stores (I use ours here the most at a local one!)
Bookstores
Clothing stores
Educational websites and apps
💡 Tip: Always ask, “Do you offer educator or teacher discounts?” — many places don’t advertise it.
2. Special Homeschool Days & Discounts at Amusement Parks
Did you know many theme parks and attractions offer homeschool-only days?
These often include:
Reduced ticket prices
Educational workshops or classes
Smaller crowds
STEM or history-based learning experiences
Places that often offer homeschool perks:
Amusement parks
Zoos & aquariums
Science centers
Children’s museums
Historical villages & landmarks
Some even offer free admission for homeschool groups if you meet a minimum group size.
3. Museum, Zoo & Nature Center Memberships (That Pay for Themselves)
Homeschoolers often use museums as part of their curriculum — and memberships can save hundreds of dollars a year.
Membership perks:
Unlimited visits
Guest passes
Reciprocal entry to museums nationwide
Educational programs included at no extra cost
Member-only homeschool classes
For families who learn through hands-on experiences, this is one of the best-kept secrets.
4. Libraries Offer WAY More Than Books
Libraries are an absolute goldmine for homeschool families — and many parents don’t realize how much they offer.
You may have access to:
Free homeschool classes & clubs
STEM kits and manipulatives
Art supplies
Musical instruments
Educational board games
Online learning platforms
Free printing or discounted printing
Some libraries even offer homeschool ID cards that expand borrowing privileges.
5. Student Discounts for Homeschoolers
Homeschool students are still students — and many companies recognize that.
Places that may offer student discounts:
Online learning platforms
Educational software
Subscription services
Clothing and shoe brands
Technology companies
You may need:
A homeschool ID
Proof of enrollment (letter from parent)
Membership in a homeschool organization
6. Flexible School Hours = Empty Weekday Adventures
One of the biggest “hidden perks” of homeschooling isn’t a discount — it’s timing.
Homeschoolers can:
Visit museums when they’re quiet
Go to parks during off-hours
Take advantage of weekday deals
Avoid crowds, lines, and peak pricing
This alone can drastically reduce stress and save money.
7. Homeschool Co-ops, Pods & Free Community Resources
Many homeschool families don’t realize how many free or low-cost co-ops exist locally.
These can include:
Nature groups
Forest school-style meetups
Art or music circles
STEM clubs
Field trip groups with group pricing
Often, the only “requirement” is showing up consistently and participating.
8. Educational Grants, Programs & Free Curriculum
Depending on your state, homeschoolers may qualify for:
Free online curriculum
Educational stipends
Charter school resources (while still homeschooling at home)
Discounted testing or evaluations
Even if funding isn’t available, many companies offer free educator resources that homeschool parents can use without restriction.
9. Your Homeschool Is Legit (Even If It Looks Different)
One of the most empowering things homeschool families often don’t realize is this:
👉 You are already doing enough.
👉 Your homeschool doesn’t need to look like traditional school to be valid.
👉 Learning happens everywhere — not just at a desk.
Once you embrace that, these perks become tools that support your lifestyle instead of adding pressure.
Homeschooling opens doors that many families don’t even know exist. From educator discounts and homeschool days to museum memberships and flexible schedules, there are so many ways to make homeschooling richer, easier, and more affordable.
The key?
Ask questions
Advocate for yourself
Connect with other homeschool families
And don’t assume “that’s only for public school kids”
Because more often than not… it’s for you too.