As a veteran homeschool mom, people often find their way to me if they are contemplating homeschooling. Whether it is someone I already know, someone I happen to meet, or by introduction of a mutual friend who knows I homeschool and love it, I find myself being asked to share our story pretty regularly. The question I am asked most often is “How do you do it?” I always laugh at that one because to me it doesn’t feel like I’m “doing” anything other than parenting. Perhaps I put in a few more hours a day than a family who sends their children to traditional schools, but in my mind it’s just an extension of parenting and family life.
In fact, as far as I’m concerned, there are only two things needed in order to educate your children at home.
1. Believe it is important to do so.
2. Believe that you can do it.
You don’t even need to have #2 from the get-go. If you can conjure up the bravery to start to homeschool because of #1, I can guarantee that very, very soon into your journey you will also know #2.
Sure, there are tough days, but the truth is that it’s no more difficult than any other full day of your parenting life. You will know you can do it almost immediately upon starting because one of the very first things you will notice is how naturally learning comes when the pressure is off. When I, myself, enjoy learning new things, enjoy reading, enjoy discussing, enjoy researching, and demonstrate curiosity, I unwittingly create an atmosphere of excitement about learning and really just a feeling that continuous learning is a part of daily life even throughout adulthood. And when that is the standard set in your household, daily learning is just a fact of life and becomes part of your greater family lifestyle.
I really believe that any parent that loves their child and has the willingness to become a lead learner in their family has the capability and capacity to teach and guide their child well. Just remember, you have been their single most important teacher and mentor since the day they were born. Who says that when they turn 5 you are no longer capable of doing it?
Well said! 🙌🏼