What led you to homeschool?

• As a young, married couple stationed on a base in Germany, we were exposed to several homeschooling families. We liked the dynamic we saw within the families. The children and parents seemed well connected, and we knew we wanted that.
• We had a conviction from the Lord.
• We as parents, looking back on our middle school experiences of lack-luster teachers, repetitive lessons, and kids at their worst, wanted to avoid that for our kids.

What has been challenging about homeschooling?

• Am I doing enough? Are they learning enough? Are my kids on track with their peers? Are they lonely, bored, etc.? (along with a much younger sibling in the mix).
• My lack of patience! God has grown that in me, and I can see from year to year how I’ve become more patient.
• Getting kids to do their workbooks and assignments on their own, particularly writing.
• Homeschooling is a sanctification journey like no other. Reminding us all that we are on the same team and not taking things personally are the hardest parts of homeschooling.

What has been rewarding about homeschooling?

• Spending time together, flexibility, tailoring options to meet their needs
• Spending time and hearing what is on my kids’ minds is one of the most rewarding aspects of homeschooling.
• The time that I have been able to spend with my daughters and the relationship that we have. That is much more important than academics.
• I’ve enjoyed watching the kids grow and learn, and the learning process. I like reading their assignments and discussing science and literature with them.