To the Mom Just Starting Homeschooling

The other day I saw a post on Instagram asking for advice as a first-time homeschooler. I got really excited seeing the question, and before I even thought about it, I started typing out a list of things I wish I had known before starting homeschooling almost 10 years ago.

The advice seemed to resonate with so many people, with others adding their own thoughts and encouragement, and it made me realize this probably needed a more permanent place than the comment section of an Instagram post—somewhere another mom might stumble across it right when she needs it.

Before I get into my list, I want to give a little background on our homeschool journey and also a disclaimer: I don’t know everything, and I definitely don’t have it all figured out. I can only speak from my own experience.

What I’m about to share may not resonate with you, and you may even disagree with some of it—and that’s okay. I truly believe there are so many ways to approach homeschooling. The “right way” is the way that works for your family.

I have 3 children. My first went all the way through private/public school till graduation. We eventually decided to pull our younger two out of school, one from public school and one from private school when they were in fourth and first grade. I will graduate my last child next school year, and my homeschooling years will be over.

Not every day was easy, but every day was worth it.

I will cherish this time I had with my children, teaching them, forever.

Things I wish I knew before starting homeschooling:

*You can change your mind about a lot of things—curriculum included—any time you feel it’s necessary.

*With younger kids, so much learning happens through play.

*Take one year at a time.

*You will have hard days that make you question your decision. That doesn’t mean you made the wrong one.

*Care about their hearts just as much as getting through the curriculum… maybe even more.

*You will never regret having this time with your children.

*You are capable of doing this. You will need that reminder often.

*Have fun. Everything feels lighter when you’re having fun.

As I prepare to graduate my last child and close this chapter of homeschooling, I can honestly say the years went faster than I ever imagined. There were hard days, messy days, and days I questioned myself completely. But there were also slow mornings, deep conversations, inside jokes, flexibility, closeness, and memories I wouldn’t trade for anything. If you’re just beginning this journey, I hope you know you don’t have to do it perfectly to do it well.