Stop asking homeschool moms “what curriculum do you use?” Embracing the Journey of Homeschooling: What Truly Matters

For those who don’t know, I’ve been a homeschooler from the very beginning. With a background as a teacher and a master's in education, I realized daycare and preschool options were beyond my budget. So, I made the decision to stay home with my three kids. Now, 15 years later, I've been homeschooling this entire time.

**The Curriculum Isn’t Everything**

What I've learned throughout this journey is that the curriculum often doesn’t matter as much as you might think. What truly counts are the daily interactions and experiences you share with your children. Here are some key aspects to focus on:

- **Relationships**: How you treat your kids, handle conflicts, and engage with them shapes their lives more than any curriculum ever could.

- **Life Skills**: From morning routines to evening discussions, the day-to-day skills you teach—like problem-solving and emotional intelligence—are invaluable.

- **Community Engagement**: How you interact with others and partner with society plays a significant role in their development into good humans.

I know this perspective might ruffle some feathers, but after years of experience, I can confidently say that it’s the memories that last.

**Cherished Memories Over Worksheets**

As I prepare to graduate my first child, who is heading to college, I reflect on what my kids will remember from their homeschooling experience. They’ll cherish the camping trips, family game nights, and late-night conversations about life and relationships far more than any math sheet or science experiment.

My daughter recalls the family time we shared—the adventures we took together and how we navigated conflicts as a family. Those moments are what truly matter.

**Building Lifelong Relationships**

If you’re considering homeschooling and feel overwhelmed by curriculum choices, remember this: it’s about how you live your life together and the memories you create. The ultimate goal isn’t just to graduate your kids with top grades or get them into prestigious colleges. Instead, it’s to foster a lasting relationship that allows you to enjoy life together even as they grow older.

I envision my future kids, now in their 20s, bringing their laundry over for a coffee chat with me. That’s the real success—having a strong bond, not merely a list of academic achievements.

If you have any questions about homeschooling in Virginia, feel free to DM me. Wishing you an amazing day and remember to stay creative!