How I Became a Homeschooling Mama: Our Unexpected Journey that Changed Everything

The President announced a nationwide lockdown on March 2020. Like many parents, I was overwhelmed with fear and uncertainty. Schools were closing, stores closing, the world is locking down. Suddenly, everyone feels unsafe. My husband and I had to made a quick decision--how do we continue our children's education while keeping them safe? After much prayer, research, and hesitation, we decided to take a leap of faith into the unfamiliar world of homeschooling.

Our Pandemic-Driven Decision

Ate first, our decision was purely out of concern for our kid's health and safety. We wanted to limit their exposure to the virus as much as possible, and staying home seemed like the most responsible and practical thing to do. Little did we know, this choice would become one of the biggest blessings of our family.

The Unexpected Benefits We Discovered

In just a few weeks, I started to notice changes--not just in our daily routine but in my children too. Homeschooling gave them space to grow at their own pace. No pressure from unreasonable assignments, from trying to survive in the competitive classroom environment. In here, learning is a priority. They could learn in a way that best suits them.

Some benefits we experienced:

• More family bonding time - We were learning together and discovering new things everyday. Cooking and baking together have been one of our activities in different subjects: English, for them to learn how to follow instructions correctly; Math, for measuring ingredients; Home Economics for learning how to manage home.

• Customized learning - We were given the freedom to tailor the lessons according to their interests and strengths. We were made aware that every child has different learning styles. It helps if we use these styles in teaching them.

• Character building - Homeschooling allowed us to integrate values, faith, and life skills naturally into our daily lessons. They were able to appreciate History by showing them how one's behavior affects the community, what should have been done, or what should have been the right thing to do. Ingraining values in the lessons is for me the highlight of homeschooling; since their stewards, we want them to grow a good person.

• Less stress - Without pressure of grades and assignments, learning became enjoyable. We are focused on how to learn a topic. Quizzes are used as a tool to gauge a learning gap, not just a mere grade. In homeschooling, they are not afraid to commit mistakes. We have seen mistakes as an opportunity to learn.

Our first few days was really tough. "Classes" were conducted in a lecture-form like a traditional classroom. Eventually, we have learned how to be more flexible. We allow them to read and study on their own and ask unlimited sound questions. We allow them to use every tool they think they need in order to understand the lesson--Google, books, even interviews from adults. Besides, that's how life is--there is no rule of thumb in learning.

It wasn't Always Easy

Of course, it wasn't all smooth sailing. There were days when I questioned everything, moments that I don't feel like homeschooling, times when I felt like I wasn't enough. But I learned to give myself grace. Homeschooling taught me patience--not just with my kids, but with myself too.

A Way of Life, Not Just an Educational Choice

Today, homeschooling is no longer just a temporary solution for us. It has become a lifestyle--one that empowers our family to learn, grow, and thrive together. I never imagined myself that I would become a homeschooling mama, but I am so grateful we took this path.

If you're thinking about homeschooling or just beginning your journey, know that it's okay to start unsure. Just like I did.

About the Author

Hi, I'm the voice behind the Wise Mama Life - a mom on a mission to make motherhood wiser, simpler, and more fulfilling. While I chose to keep my identify private to focus on the message rather than the messenger, every story, tip, and insight shared here is based on real-life experiences, heartfelt reflections, and practical wisdom gathered through years of motherhood, homemaking, and personal growth.

At Wise Mama Life, you'll find honest conversations, thoughtful parenting tips, life lessons from everyday moments, and gentle guidance to help us thrive - not just survive - as a parent.

I believe wisdom is in the little things. Let's grow together.

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