9 Years of Homeschooling: What We Learned and Why We Love It ✨
After nearly a decade on this journey, I’m excited to share what we’ve learned about homeschooling and why our homeschool approach works so well for our family. Homeschooling isn’t one-size-fits-all, and that’s the beauty of it. Our approach is built around flexibility, connection, and creating a love of learning that lasts. Whether you’re just starting out or refining your homeschool approach, I hope our story inspires you and sparks ideas for your own journey.
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Why Our Homeschool Approach Works
After nine years of homeschooling my eighth grader (homeschooled since kindergarten) and my fourth grader (homeschooled since pre-K), I’ve learned a few things that solidify why our homeschool approach works.
Here’s the heart of what we do—and what we don’t.
Things We Don’t Do
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We don’t follow a rigid daily schedule. We use a flow that works for us.
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We don’t adhere to state standards or minimum hours. No testing, no checking in.
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We don’t force group learning or socialization through co-ops. Our kids make friends naturally through their interests, like dance, theater, or hobbies.
Freedom in these areas gives us space to focus on meaningful learning experiences, connection, and creativity.
Things We Do
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Combine when possible: My kids often work on similar topics together, while still keeping subjects like math and language arts separate based on their levels.
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Four-day school weeks: Life happens, bonus opportunities pop up, and our schedule leaves room for exploration and fun.
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Lean into interests: Last year we did a dinosaur study and a filmmaking study. This year, we’re prioritizing our kids’ individual passions.
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Real-world learning: We use textbooks minimally, prioritize hands-on learning, and embrace secular curriculum while respecting our personal faith.
Flexibility & Knowing When to Pivot
One key to our homeschool approach is knowing when to pivot or quit something that isn’t working. For example, last year we switched from one Algebra 1 program to Denison Algebra—a complete game-changer. Success comes from adapting, modifying, and customizing curriculum to fit your family, not forcing yourself into someone else’s method.
We also modify every resource we use, making it ours. Think of it as a “weave mentality”: you source the material, customize it, and it becomes your own unique approach.
Realistic Planning & Consistency
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Front-loading: Mondays set the tone for our week, so we tackle the highest-demand subjects early.
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Independent learning: My kids are learning to take ownership of their studies while I guide and support them.
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Organic learning: We discuss topics as they arise in real life, creating meaningful connections and planting seeds for future understanding.
Why This Approach Works
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Delayed heavy writing instruction: My fourth grader hasn’t forced formulaic essays yet, but she reads classic literature and is building a strong foundation naturally.
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Increased independence: My kids learn to work independently and think critically.
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Fun and engagement: Learning is meant to be enjoyable. If it’s not fun, it’s not effective.
We balance fun with accountability, flexibility with structure, and individual interests with core learning.
Socialization Through Interests
We don’t force group learning. True socialization happens where kids share passions—dance, theater, robotics, or even Pokémon. This approach ensures friendships develop naturally, without stress or forced interactions.
Biggest Takeaway
The most important thing we’ve learned in nine years of homeschooling is this: find your homeschool approach.
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Take ideas from others, but make them your own.
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Pivot when needed.
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Adapt, blend, and modify until it works for your family.
Your homeschool approach should suit your learners, your goals, and your lifestyle. That’s the key to long-term success, love of learning, and making homeschooling magical.
✨ Our homeschool approach has worked beautifully for our family, and I hope these insights inspire you to create your own path. Remember, homeschooling is about connection, curiosity, and joy—find what works for you and embrace it!
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