Create Space for Writing

“What is most important and valuable about the home as a base for children’s growth into the world is not that it is a better school than the schools, but that it isn’t a school at all.” — John Holt When learning is the goal, our environment is everything. Dedicating space for learning is critical…

Favorite Books of 2023

Do I write about reading too often? Probably. But I am deeply passionate about books, and I love this end-of-year reflection ritual. Books are a gift that we give ourselves, and reading allows us to grow and learn in the seclusion of our homes. When we choose what and when we read, we educate, enlighten,…

Modern Learning, Healthy Minds

I am grateful for the opportunity to teach our kids. Homeschool is a living, breathing, beautiful learning beast. Our learning path is constantly in motion because our kids’ passions, energies, wants, and needs always change; thankfully, we can change with them. Shouldn’t the river of learning be a fluid, flowing mass with back eddies, calm…

Homeschool, then College?

Is that even possible? Absolutely, it is. While we didn’t have a recipe to follow, we did have a lot of faith in the process. In the end, our journey from homeschooling to college acceptance was two parts roller-coaster, one part smooth-sailing, a little worry, and a dash of excitement — probably the same as…

The Unique and Unlimited Paths of Education

“When we examine our educational options with our own personalities and our children’s uniqueness in mind, we allow the fresh wind of possibilities to waft through the room. The best education we can give our children is the one that says: There are unlimited ways to get to where you want to go; I’m here…

April’s Poet

Is there a better time than Spring to appreciate the beauty of nature, the nature of our souls, the soul of our world, and our world of love and beauty? Definitely not. Spring brings with it a fountain of poetry that drops us wordies to our knees. poetry [ poh-i-tree ] noun the art of rhythmical…

Best Reads of 2022

For awhile I could not remember some word I was in need of. and then I was bereaved and said: where are you, beloved friend? Oliver, Mary. A Thousand Mornings. Penguin Books, 2012. p. 9. When I look back on my reading list for any given year, I am inspired by the authors who laid…

Playing the Brain Game

“Music is a universal language. It can transport us; help us relive special moments; make us healthier, happier and more connected as family, friends, and as part of a larger community.” – Concord Conservatory of Music The benefits of playing a musical instrument are well-documented and vast. Our children are piano players. Playing a musical…

Master Your Homeschool Mission

This may be redundant, but with the renewed attention to homeschools everywhere, I don’t mind repeating: Every family is unique, and each homeschool is different. If you are considering a switch to homeschool life, the best way to start is by establishing some ground rules. Think about your family’s core values, goals, and overall vision…

Home Sweet (Home) School

It’s a beautiful thing, sitting here, on the other side of fierce and giant and scary risk. I do like to dip my toes in things that scare me, but right now, I am happy to bask in my comfort zone for a while. Ten years ago, we had an idea to try homeschooling so…