(A personal guide for new homeschool moms who want to keep things simple, joyful, and faith-filled)
When I made the decision to homeschool, I had no idea how much it would change me—not just my kids. I was excited, yes. But I also had a million questions swirling in my head. What do I teach first? Do I need a desk? Will I mess this up?
If you're feeling a mix of excitement and overwhelm, you're in the right place. I’ve been there, too. And after a lot of prayer, trial and error, and grace upon grace... I’ve gathered 5 key lessons I wish someone had told me right at the beginning.
So, mama—take a deep breath. You don’t have to do this perfectly. You just have to start.
1. Know Your Why — and Keep It Somewhere You Can See It
This one has been my anchor on hard days. Your why is the reason you’re choosing this path. For us, it was about slowing down, nurturing faith and character, and making learning more meaningful. Maybe for you it’s flexibility, personalized learning, or protecting childhood wonder. Whatever it is, write it down. Frame it. Put it in your homeschool planner or stick it on the fridge. Because when things get messy (and they will), your why will remind you why it’s all worth it.
2. Look Into the Legal Stuff (It’s Not as Scary as It Sounds)
I know this part sounds boring, but trust me—it’s important to understand your local homeschooling laws before you withdraw your child or buy curriculum. Just Google “[Your Province/State] homeschooling requirements” and check:
- Do I need to register with anyone?
- What records should I keep?
- Are there required subjects or assessments?
Once that’s sorted, it brings so much peace of mind. You’ll feel free to focus on what actually matters—learning and connecting with your kids.
3. Let Go of the Perfect Homeschool Vision
This was a tough one for me. I pictured a Pinterest-worthy setup with perfect routines and cheerful kids doing nature journaling in the sunshine. Reality? Some days we learn at the kitchen table. Some days it’s reading on the couch in pajamas. And some days... it's just life. You don’t need a “school room.” You don’t need to follow a rigid schedule. You get to build what works for your family. Some of our best days have come from spontaneous learning moments or messy play outside.
4. Find a Community (Even if You're Introverted Like Me)
Homeschooling can feel isolating if you try to do it all alone. Trust me, I tried. But finding a support system—even just one or two other moms—makes such a difference. Start by:
- Joining local homeschool WhatsApp or Facebook groups
- Asking your library about homeschool meetups or workshops
- Following faith-based homeschool accounts on Pinterest and Instagram for encouragement and ideas
You’ll find others walking the same road. And they’ll remind you: you’re doing better than you think.
5. Focus on Connection Over Perfection
This one changed everything for me. You will have off days. The lesson plan won’t get finished. There will be tears—maybe even yours. But if your child feels safe, seen, and loved… the learning will come. Slow down. Sit and read together. Ask your child what excites them. Some of the most beautiful moments of homeschooling aren’t academic—they’re relational.
Bonus: Don’t Reinvent the Wheel (Use Tools That Make Life Easier)
I created a guide just for moms like you:
Milestones Made Easy: Support Developmental Milestones with Simple, Joyful Activities at Home
It’s a play-based learning guide for toddlers and preschoolers (ages 1–6) packed with activities, encouragement, and real-life tips to help you simplify early learning without stress or screens. And if you're looking for printables, planners, busy books, or homeschool tools you can start using today, come visit my store: Rooted Prints on Payhip. Everything there is designed with love to help you build a calm, connected homeschool life—one page at a time.
From one homeschool mom to another: You don’t need to have it all figured out. You just need to begin, love well, and trust the process. You’ve got this, mama. And I’m cheering you on. 💛