Homeschooling is something I never imagined would be part of our story.
Like many families, we always assumed we’d follow the typical path: school during the week, after-school activities, and the usual routines. For a long time, that felt like the default, and although it never felt quite right, we moved forward with it.
But over the past year, something shifted in our hearts.
Kindergarten Gave Us a Glimpse of What Was Ahead
Our oldest daughter attended half-day kindergarten this year, which gave us a glimpse of what the full school experience would be like.
While she enjoyed many parts of her day (and we truly love the school she attended), we couldn’t help but notice how much of our family time had disappeared in those few short hours, as well as how drained she was at the end of the school day.
The idea of her being gone for eight hours a day starting in the fall for first grade, especially while her younger sister was still at home, started to feel heavy. We found ourselves longing for slower mornings, unhurried afternoons, and more moments spent together as a family.
Fostering a Closer Sibling Bond
It wasn’t just about having more time, though. It was also about how we spend that time.
We want our daughters to grow up side by side, building a close and lasting relationship.
We want them to experience shared learning, spontaneous play, and the simple joy of being together during these early years. Homeschooling gives us the opportunity to foster that sibling bond in a way that feels natural and unrushed.
Finding Community Through Co-Ops
At the same time, we knew we didn’t want to homeschool in isolation. Community matters deeply to us, and that’s why we’re excited to join two awesome co-ops this year.
On Mondays, we’ll be part of a traditional co-op where the girls will learn alongside other children in a more structured setting. On Wednesdays, we’ll spend our mornings at a nature-based co-op, giving them time outdoors to explore, create, and connect with the natural world.
These weekly rhythms feel like the best of both worlds — structure and freedom, community and family, learning and play.
Learning Through Travel and Exploration
Another big part of this decision came from our desire to make learning more hands-on and connected to real life.
We love to travel, take spontaneous day trips, and explore new places together. Homeschooling opens the door to learning on the go — where lessons aren’t limited to textbooks or classrooms, but happen wherever curiosity leads us.
Whether we’re visiting a museum, hiking a new trail, or simply having a slow morning at home, homeschooling allows us to embrace these experiences as part of our kiddos’ education.
A Choice That Feels Right for This Season
At the end of the day, this choice isn’t about thinking homeschooling is superior or that traditional school doesn’t work.
For us, it’s simply about what feels right in this season. We know there will be challenges ahead, but there are challenges with every type of schooling.
It’s about more time together.
It’s about fostering sibling connection.
It’s about flexibility, adventure, and being present for the everyday moments that pass by too quickly.
We know homeschooling won’t be perfect or easy, but we’re excited and grateful for the opportunity to walk this path together — at our own pace, and in our own way.
Curious about how we’re preparing for homeschooling or what our daily rhythm looks like?
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