Since September, I’ve been on the homeschooling journey with my three youngest children. While I had previously homeschooled my eldest, this is my first year diving deep into the world of home education. The reality of day-to-day homeschooling has revealed many unexpected insights. Here’s what you might not hear from others about this unique path…
- Transitioning from Parent to Teacher is Tough.
I always knew my kids listened to others better than me; however, it has taken time for them to realize I mean business when it comes to their education. If I relax my standards, they quickly switch from studying to rolling on the floor or binge-watching shows instead of reading. It’s been a learning curve for all of us, but we’re gradually understanding that schoolwork is not negotiable, unlike what we have for dinner. - You’ll Teach Subjects You Dread.
I adore reading, writing, and math, but social studies and science? Not so much. Yet, I have to teach these subjects and pretend I’m knowledgeable while desperately searching online for answers. A silver lining is that I’m now retaining facts I once deemed unimportant in school. - Loneliness Might Creep In.
If you lack a robust homeschooling community and most of your friends send their kids off to school, it can feel isolating. I’ve struggled to find my place in the homeschooling community while watching my friends enjoy their brief moments of freedom when their kids are at preschool. - Your Patience Will Be Tested.
Having my kids around 24/7 was expected, but the reality of it has truly stretched my patience. We’re constantly together for everything—from doctor appointments to grocery runs. I’ve noticed that just like exercise, the more I practice patience, the stronger it becomes. - You’ll Need to Ditch the Rigid Rules.
Initially, I was stressed about curricula and reading levels. Fortunately, we’ve found our rhythm. I now trust my teaching methods and recognize each child’s unique learning style. It’s a relief to see them making progress, though I know challenges will only grow as they age. - Admitting What Doesn’t Work is Hard.
As homeschoolers, we often face skepticism about our ability to educate. When things go awry, it’s uncomfortable to talk about it because there’s a pressure to prove we can handle it. Every educator has good days and bad, and finding a supportive community where you can share your struggles is essential. - Everything Will Evolve.
Our family dynamic has changed significantly since we began homeschooling. My children, now together constantly, have become more supportive of one another. They’ve learned to rely on each other for help and have grown more comfortable with their identities, which is a beautiful transformation. - You May Either Love It or Loathe It.
At the beginning of the year, I feared I might regret my decision to homeschool. Now, I’m grateful for the experience. I genuinely enjoy it, but I can understand why it’s not for everyone. If you thrive on a busy schedule and struggle to settle into a homeschooling rhythm, it’s perfectly fine to consider other options.
This journey has taught me that every family must find what works best for them and honor each other’s choices. Whether you’re happily homeschooling or considering the school bus, I’m here to answer any questions you may have about the process, so feel free to reach out. For more insights, check out our other blog posts like this one on home insemination.
Summary:
Homeschooling is a unique experience that challenges traditional notions of education and family dynamics. It requires patience, adaptability, and an understanding of both the joys and struggles that come with it. Whether you find yourself loving or questioning the journey, it’s essential to embrace what works for your family.