The First Trial Homeschool Semester: Our Journey, Challenges, and Joys

Hello, beautiful souls! 🌸

When my son was just six months old, I felt an unmistakable call to homeschool. It wasn’t an easy decision, and it’s one that has sparked its fair share of controversy. But deep in my heart, I know this is what’s best for our family. Sending my son to school would undoubtedly be more convenient, but homeschooling feels like the path God has laid before us.

Because I felt this call so early, I’ve had the rare opportunity to truly prepare. I began praying about it when my son was just a year old, and since then, I’ve immersed myself in research. I’ve read books, papers, and explored every homeschooling method I could find. This journey has allowed me to create a thoughtful plan, rooted in what I believe will best serve my child.

Laying the Groundwork

To ensure school wouldn’t be a shock to his routine, I’ve started weaving small lessons and routines into our daily life. This year, as many children begin preschool, we’ve introduced a gentle preschool curriculum to ease into a rhythm of learning.

But we’re approaching this thoughtfully. Research shows that formal education at such a young age can sometimes do more harm than good, so our focus is on gentle, play-based learning. During a homeschool conference, after repeatedly promising myself we wouldn’t buy curriculum that year, I stumbled upon Five In A Row at the Rainbow Resource booth. It was love at first sight.

We purchased Before Five In A Row and More Before Five In A Row, which we’re using as preschool and kindergarten curriculum. These books have been the perfect fit for our family.

Learning Through Stories

Our mornings are often spent curled up with a good book, followed by an activity inspired by the story. One of my favorite moments was reading My Yellow Ball by Molly Bang while we were at the beach. The lesson focused on storms at sea, which couldn’t have been more fitting after a massive storm had rolled through the night before.

Another standout moment came with Blueberries for Sal by Robert McCloskey. We used pails to follow along with Sal’s adventures, adding or removing blueberries as she did in the story. Later, my son independently counted his blueberries and even corrected my husband’s miscount, explaining the error. And he was only three!

Challenges Along the Way

Of course, no semester comes without its hiccups. Family commitments, illnesses, and the chaos of the holiday season often interrupted our routine. On some days, we got creative with lessons, adapting when we didn’t have access to our books.

There were also moments of personal struggle. I’ve cried, doubted myself, and felt the weight of this responsibility. Homeschooling requires sacrifices—of time, energy, and even moments of personal peace.

The Rewards Are Worth It

Despite the challenges, I’ve witnessed my son grow and achieve things I never thought possible at this age. He knows our address and both of our phone numbers. He can articulate why we have a ball drop at New Year’s. Watching him learn and thrive has reaffirmed our decision time and again.

Looking Ahead

Homeschooling is a journey of love, patience, and discovery. It’s not easy, but it’s a privilege I’m endlessly grateful for. As I look toward the future, I’m filled with hope and excitement for all the things we will learn and experience together.

To anyone considering homeschooling or curious about this path, know that it’s okay to feel overwhelmed or unsure. This journey is one of growth—for both parent and child—and the rewards are immeasurable.

With love and hope,

Mana 🌟📚

About half of the books we read!