We embraced the homeschool lifestyle when our oldest was entering kindergarten and we have truly loved the journey! Here are a few things that I have learned along the way…
“De-schooling” my mind has been vital in our success as a homeschool family.
Everything that I thought and was told that school had to look like is not necessarily true when homeschooling. We have the freedom to customize our children’s education and calendar to suit our family’s individual needs, passions, schedules & more!
Life experiences are just as important if not more important than bookwork.
Troubleshooting home repairs, walking on a trail with friends, grocery shopping & visiting a farm are all forms of learning (& “school”). Life is learning.
Socialization is cultivated by parents & family culture, not just a classroom or school setting.
My kids experience relationships of all kinds (friends, neighbors, family) daily. These relationships consist of a wide range of ages & backgrounds. This is important to us and intentional. We did not want them just hanging out with kids their age— we love seeing them play and get along with all kinds of people regardless of their age.
You don’t have to spend a lot of money on resources & curriculum to have a successful homeschool.
There are so many options nowadays. We also rarely buy books because we love to utilize our local library. We don’t even have a fancy room dedicated to homeschooling; we use our dining room table where lots of beautiful morning light shines in. It can look however you desire!
I’ve heard many inspiring homeschool mamas stress the importance of relationships over checklists.
I couldn’t agree more! There are days when we set aside the books & enjoy nature together because I can sense that’s what we all need.
I hope this list was helpful to anyone contemplating this lifestyle and encouraging to the parents who have already chosen it!
