Six Things I Would Tell a New Homeschooler

Homeschooling is hard work, but the rewards are worth every effort.  Those seeds you sow today, may not display the resulting fruit for a long time, perhaps years.  Be patient and persevere.

There is no perfect curriculum, schedule, or method.  Nothing will fit your family exactly.  It doesn't mean you throw it all out the window and reinvent everything.  Use the elements that work, change what doesn't.

Not everything you read or hear needs to be included in your homeschool.  Bookshelves and the internet are full of information regarding homeschooling.  Be discerning.  Store the ideas which you think will help your family.  Try them out.  Keep them if they work, but don't be afraid to discard them if they don't. 

Homeschooling does not have to be done in a vacuum.  There are plenty of people to support and encourage you as a family.  Depending on your situation, you may need to step out of your comfort zone and actively seek a support system.

Your relationship with your husband and child(ren) is more important than the academics. Never put the act of homeschooling before your relationships. There is always something to learn, and learning takes time. However, learning can occur in many ways, and should not be a the expense of your relationships. Be sure to continue to build and strengthen the relationships within your family.

Pray.  God started you on this journey.  He will equip you and carry you onward to its completion.




*These six items are a result of what I have learned over the eight years we have homeschooled.  As we continue to homeschool, I am confident I will be learning more lessons along the way...