Here’s a fresh perspective: homeschooling and personalised tutoring might actually enhance a child's ability to navigate social waters, challenging the old assumption that such educational paths might stunt social development.
Many parents worry about homeschooling. It’s understandable. One of the biggest fears is that private tuition or homeschooling might limit a child’s ability to build friendships or navigate social situations. After all, schools are where kids usually meet, chat, and figure out relationships.
But here's something you might not expect – homeschooling could actually boost your child's social skills, rather than diminish them.
Why having a private tutor makes such a difference
A good private tutor doesn't just help your child academically. They also become a social mentor and role model. In one-to-one tuition, your child learns more than algebra or literature. They're learning empathy, communication, and emotional intelligence directly from their tutor.
Adam Caller, Founder and CEO of Tutors International, describes it like this:
“A bespoke private tutor enables the student to interact on a one-to-one basis, forming a symbiotic relationship. The student feels confident asking questions, answering questions, and seeking support when needed. The tutor enhances learning by providing feedback, encouragement, and motivation.”
This depth and intensity of customised learning allows the child to learn how to handle social relationships effectively. They follow the tutor’s example – modelling interpersonal awareness, collaboration, and genuine care.
Personalisation leads to confidence and enthusiasm
Tutors tailor their approach around your child's interests, strengths, and even your family’s lifestyle. Something that just isn’t possible in a classroom of 30 kids. This personalisation creates enthusiasm, boosts confidence, and often dramatically improves academic outcomes. (Check out Bloom’s 2-Sigma problem if you’re curious.)
And daily conversations with highly educated tutors (many of whom come from prestigious universities) give your child practical experience. Starting conversations, maintaining friendships, handling conflicts. Real-life skills that busy school classrooms can easily overlook.
Real families, real results
A family from Cheshire in the UK highlighted just how committed their tutor was to building their children's social connections:
“[The tutor] was very focused on the importance of social interaction. Often encouraging us to go above and beyond in organising events and experiences where the girls could meet other children. French clubs, Brownies, playdates – she made sure the girls maintained contact and built new friendships.”
Adam Caller addressed exactly this concern at the Prestel & Partners Forum, reassuring parents that homeschooling doesn’t isolate children socially:
“This is probably the most common worry families have about homeschooling. Consider your own friendships – how many friends do you still have from school, compared to those from university, clubs, sports teams, or musical groups?
“Taking children out of school doesn’t mean removing them from people. Most of the day – the other 12 hours they’re awake and not studying – that's when they socialise. In fact, when they’re homeschooled, children have more time for these friendships and activities.”
Less study, more socialising (seriously!)
Private tutoring usually means fewer hours of formal lessons each day. That frees up plenty of time for the activities that truly build lasting social skills. Clubs, sports, drama groups, or simply inviting friends over after class. The tutor actively supports these activities, nurturing the whole child, not just their grades.
Watch Adam Caller discuss the social impact of homeschooling at the 2022 New York Prestel & Partner Family Office Forum, hosted by the Harvard Club.
A different, better way to develop social skills
Homeschooling doesn't have to mean reducing social interactions – it's about making them richer and more meaningful. Your child learns to navigate friendships and relationships through authentic interactions, guided by thoughtful mentors. Skills for life, not just for exams.
To dive deeper into exactly how private tutoring fosters social intelligence, you might enjoy this article: How Private Tutoring Helps Your Child Develop Social Intelligence .
When it's done well, homeschooling doesn’t hinder social growth.
