Kim Kardashian Opens Up About Homeschooling North West, Sparking Public Debate
LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Kim Kardashian recently revealed that her eldest daughter, North West, is now being homeschooled, a decision that has ignited a wide-ranging conversation about education and childhood in the public eye. During a candid appearance on her sister Khloé Kardashian’s podcast, Kim described how she has taken on the role of both mother and teacher to nurture North’s creative interests and provide a tailored learning experience.
At 12 years old, North is the only one of Kim’s four children with Kanye West to be homeschooled, while her siblings Saint, Chicago, and Psalm continue attending traditional schools. Kim explained that homeschooling allows her to focus on “realistic courses” that align with North’s passions, including brand-building, fashion, and music production. “I’ve now added ‘teacher’ to my role, ‘cause she wants me involved in all the things,” Kim said, emphasizing the full-time commitment required to support her daughter’s education.
Kim detailed some of North’s coursework, which includes practical math exercises such as budgeting and shopping, as well as a brand-building class that covers web design, budgeting, and hands-on creation of hats and jewelry. North also participates in fashion courses and attends summer fashion camps at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) in New York, an institution known for its rigorous programs in design and merchandising. Music is another major component of her curriculum, with eight-hour studio sessions dedicated to producing and writing, activities that go beyond what traditional school music classes typically offer.
Kim’s approach reflects a growing trend among some families who opt for homeschooling to provide customized education experiences. According to the U.S. Department of Education, homeschooling allows parents to tailor instruction to their child’s needs, though it requires significant parental involvement.
However, Kim’s disclosure has sparked mixed reactions online. Critics argue that North, like many children, needs the socialization and structure that traditional schooling provides. “Kids need to be socialized and have structure and I feel like this is just going to isolate and cause her to grow up even more,” one commenter wrote, reflecting a common concern about homeschooling’s impact on social development. Others questioned whether North’s intense focus on branding and entrepreneurship might overshadow other aspects of childhood.
Supporters, meanwhile, highlight the advantages of homeschooling, especially when backed by extensive resources and opportunities. Some point out that homeschooling can include structured curricula and interactive learning, citing examples of private and online schools that offer live classes and discussions. The Homeschooling Resources portal maintained by the government provides families with guidance on how to create effective homeschooling environments that balance academics and social growth.
Kim also acknowledged the challenges involved, noting that she took six months off from her professional commitments to focus on North’s education. “It’s been a lot, and it’s been so fun to see her blossom,” she said, underscoring the personal investment required.
The debate over North West’s homeschooling reflects broader conversations about education choices in the modern era, especially for children growing up in the spotlight. As the American Civil Liberties Union notes, education should balance academic rigor with social and emotional development, a balance that varies widely depending on individual circumstances.
Kim’s openness about her homeschooling journey invites a closer look at how families navigate these decisions amid public scrutiny. Whether North’s path will set a precedent or remain a unique case remains to be seen, but the discussion highlights the evolving landscape of childhood education in America.
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