What I Wish I Knew Early in Our Homeschool Journey

We didn’t purposely seek out homeschooling for our children. I was a teacher who left the classroom to become a trainer to other teachers throughout the Southeast. My husband was an administrator in public schools.

When we had our first son we put him in the local school, despite a calling I felt toward homeschooling. I wanted to make sure I wasn’t motivated for selfish reasons. After moving my son and putting him and my younger son in a Christian school, I still felt the call toward homeschooling.

That is when I was convinced this was what we were supposed to do. Thus, our homeschooling journey began.

Now that we have graduated both our boys and they are now in college and doing extremely well. This is what I wish I knew early in our homeschool journey, that I know now…

… that there is no “behind”, just a different timeline or sequence for personal best.

… that there is no “right” way or curriculum. What works best for the children and their parents is the “right” way.

…. that I didn’t need to stress about “covering certain things and not missing anything” during the elementary years. The elementary years introduce concepts and skills that will be repeated throughout middle and high school. Enjoying the exploration of “enjoying learning” is important during these years without stress.

… that some of the most important lessons learned were unplanned and unexpected and came through living life.

… that our family life, homeschooling lifestyle, and our Christian faith merged into one, and became indistinguishable.

… that homeschooling for us was best when it did not resemble “school at home”.

… that it would be so fascinating and exciting to give my children the freedom to explore their personal interests and talents, especially during the middle and high school years. And then see them take flight and accomplish things I could never have imagined or knew existed.

… that colleges would seek out and want to recruit homeschoolers because of their skill sets and diverse experiences because of homeschooling.

… that my children would grow so firmly into their Christian faith because of the integration of our family life and homeschooling lifestyle with our faith.

… that my son would tell me he wants to homeschool his own children when he’s married.

… And that I can now look back at those times I went on my knees during our homeschooling years, and I can see and feel God’s providence and grace in our lives, and feel so grateful for our homeschooling journey together.

Are you currently homeschooling? What did you wish you knew earlier in your homeschool journey?

Written by Katie Glennon of Katie’s Homeschool Cottage.