Real Life, Real Kids, Real Homeschool

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Some things change—and some things stay wonderfully the same.

Nearly two decades ago, I posted this photo of my son Cory and his friends at a Young Life Camp. He was tall, charming, and so full of life. That same son who once climbed every tree in sight and left sticky peanut butter fingerprints on the fridge is now grown and married with kids of his own. And you know what? I still remember how many times a day he’d pause to give me a hug or kiss on the cheek.

Back then, I was a homeschooling mom of three. Today, I can say I’ve been a homeschooling mom of ten. Yes, ten. With seven more adopted children, I’ve been blessed with an even bigger crew to love, teach, pray over, and yes—occasionally wrangle! I’m also teaching, coaching, and caring for my aging parents and grandparents. Life is full. Sometimes overflowing.

But that doesn’t mean it’s bad. It just means it’s real.

The Messy Beauty of Real Life Homeschooling

Let’s be honest: homeschooling doesn’t look like what we see on Instagram. It’s not always nature walks, color-coded planners, and smiling kids with freshly combed hair. It’s cereal bowls still on the table at 10 a.m. and chasing toddlers while explaining fractions. It’s reading aloud while folding laundry and realizing someone hasn’t done math in three days.

But you know what? That’s not failure. That’s faithfulness.

God didn’t call us to homeschool to prove a point or paint a Pinterest-perfect picture. He called us to disciple the children He entrusted to us. To know them deeply. To raise them in the knowledge and love of Him. And sometimes, that sacred calling looks a lot like spaghetti on the wall and curriculum unfinished.

5 Ways to Pause and Simply Be Present

But structure isn’t everything. God didn’t call us to raise robots. He called us to love our children—and sometimes that means pausing the plan.

1. Say yes to spontaneous snuggles – Let the math wait if a child wants to talk or read with you.
2. Take “nothing” days – Set aside a full day where the only goal is to rest, enjoy each other, and have fun.
3. Go outside and breathe – Nature has a way of healing anxious hearts. Take a walk or sit on the porch together.
4. Have one-on-one time – A quick trip to the grocery store can turn into quality time with a single child.
5. Celebrate little wins – Make a big deal out of progress, not perfection. Honor their efforts and remind them they are more than their performance.

God’s Word on the Messy Middle

Scripture reminds us of what matters most:

“Better a small serving of vegetables with love than a fattened calf with hatred.”
— Proverbs 15:17

“Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.”
— Psalm 90:12

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord…”
— Colossians 3:23

Real life homeschooling is never going to look perfect—but it can be powerful. Because in the mess and interruptions, God is working. He’s shaping your children. He’s shaping you. The conversations in the minivan, the correction at the kitchen table, the tears, the laughter—they all matter deeply.

A Prayer for the Homeschool Parent

Dear Jesus,
Thank You for this sacred work You’ve called me to. Help me to see these interruptions not as inconveniences, but as invitations—to pause, to love, to listen, and to disciple. Give me the wisdom to lead my children with grace and the humility to let You lead me first. Let our home be filled with joy, even when it’s loud. Let our days be full of connection, even when the checklist doesn’t get done. Remind me that what the world calls a mess, You often call ministry. Amen.

Remember: The real homeschool life isn’t about perfection. It’s about presence. And that’s exactly where God shows up.

Additional Resources

Hope and Refreshment for Homeschooling Parents

Need more ideas and advice on homeschooling? Pick up a copy of Homeschool Basics. Receive tried-and-true homeschool advice from veteran homeschooling moms Tricia Goyer and Kristi Clover. We dish out practical help on getting started and staying the course. Homeschool Basics will remind you that the best homeschooling starts with the heart. Packed with ideas to help you push aside your fears and raise kids who will grow to be life-long learners.

Kristi and I believe that homeschooling can transform your life, your home, and your family. Mostly, we believe homeschooling can truly prepare your children for the life God’s called them to live. Don’t let doubts hold you back any longer. Get Homeschool Basics on Amazon Now!