Episode 137

This episode of the Art of Homeschooling podcast dives into an issue that often holds homeschoolers back: accepting where you are instead of wishing you were somewhere else. Because as homeschoolers, it’s important to start where you are.

Homeschooling can be an incredible journey, but sometimes we get caught up in the idea of perfection or comparing ourselves to others.

Social media doesn’t help because we’re seeing what other homeschoolers are doing in real time and it always looks perfect, doesn’t it?! !

I want to remind you that wherever you are on your homeschooling path, you’re right where you need to be.

“Start where you are. Use what you have.
Do what you can.”
~Arthur Ashe

Start Where You Are

Are you a new homeschooler just beginning this adventure? Or perhaps you’ve been homeschooling for a while but feel overwhelmed or confused about certain aspects. Maybe you’ve encountered challenges that have made you question your abilities.

You are not alone, AND you are capable of creating a meaningful and enriching homeschool experience for your family. Truth!

Homeschooling is a deeply personal journey. Each family is unique, with different values, goals, and circumstances. What works for one family may not work for another.

And that’s okay! Embracing your own journey and starting right where you are the keys to finding joy and success in your homeschool.

We often find this easier to accept our children than ourselves!

Perhaps you’ve heard me say this before…

Rudolf Steiner, the founder of the first Waldorf school, said that as teachers, we should look at the children before us and bring them what they need.

And we need to offer ourselves this same acceptance.

This can be a big mindset shift, but it’s so worth it. With acceptance, you can appreciate the learning journey that you and your children are on so much more fully.

Here are a few guiding thoughts to guide you start where you are!

First, Embrace the Differences

Welcome the individuality of each child and your family as a whole!

Recognize and honor your children’s unique interests, learning styles, and strengths.

What works for one child may not work for the next child. And you will grow and change as a parent and teacher along with your child, discovering different techniques and tools for teaching.

Celebrate the diversity within your family, and let it guide your homeschooling decisions. This position of acceptance and embracing of differences can help YOU come from a place of encouragement, patience, and even lighthearted humor.

“Diversity is the one true thing we all have in common. Celebrate it every day.”
~Winston Churchill

Next, Start with What You Have

You don’t need an elaborate curriculum or a dedicated homeschooling space to begin.

For 25+ years of homeschooling, we used our dining room for homeschooling. All of our drawing and writing happened at the dining room table. We snuggled on the couch for read alouds and did experiments in the kitchen. And we spent a lot of time outdoors.

So look around your home and identify the resources you already have ~ books, art supplies, even nature and everyday experiences. These can serve as a rich foundation for your homeschooling adventures. Be creative, resourceful, and let your child’s natural curiosity be your guide.

Third, Slow Down and Connect

Celebrate the time you have for connecting with your children.

Homeschooling is not confined to textbooks or formal lessons. In fact, some of the most profound learning happens through real-life experiences.

Engage your children in meaningful conversations, involve them in household chores, explore your local community, let their questions lead to new discoveries. Nurture their creativity and self-motivation. Every moment can be an opportunity for growth and learning and it all starts with connection.

Remember, homeschooling is a journey. And like any journey, it has its ups and downs. There will be challenges and setbacks along the way, but these are opportunities for growth and learning, both for you and your children. Don’t let fear and self-doubt hold you back.

Just as author Maya Angelou says,

“Do the best you can until you know better.
Then when you know better, do better.”
~Maya Angelou

Trust yourself and the unique path you’re creating for your family. As I said on a recent coaching call for the Inspired at Home community, “trust the process.”

It’s more about the journey than the destination

Embrace your family’s uniqueness, make the most of the resources you have, and cherish the connections you’re creating with your children.

Homeschooling is not about reaching a specific destination. It’s about the incredible journey you take together as a family and all that you discover along the way.

Start where you are. Because you are right where you need to be!

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