Soon, social media will be flooded with charming back-to-school photos: kids beaming with gap-toothed grins, decked out in stylish outfits, and showing off shiny new backpacks. The little chalkboards will announce, “BACK TO SCHOOL 2023,” with names like “Sophie Thompson, Grade 3” and “Ethan Johnson, Grade 1.” Each sign will artfully display their favorite colors (red or blue, pink or purple — I’m rooting for the kid who boldly declares “rainbow”); their dream jobs that seem almost unattainable in today’s economy; and their favorite foods, pets, and teachers, all lovingly curated by their moms. The whole scene is undeniably adorable, but also a little overwhelming, as parents go to great lengths to capture these fleeting moments of childhood.
In contrast, our homeschooling journey remains blissfully unencumbered by this back-to-school frenzy. We’re still cozy in our pajamas, having embarked on our academic adventure at a leisurely pace in August. For us, “back-to-school” is a gradual process, seamlessly blending into our daily routine. One day we’re reading “The Odyssey,” and the next, we’re diving into “Teach Your Child to Read in 100 Easy Lessons.”
While the rest of the world is packing into crowded museums and zoos, we relish the serenity of these once-bustling spaces. As we complete our morning lessons, we enjoy afternoon outings with fewer crowds, allowing us to fully engage with the exhibits and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. No longer do we have to navigate throngs of children flinging sand or misidentifying animals, which can be a major relief for my sensitive 5-year-old, who often corrects them with an eye-roll: “It’s an ape!”
However, the arrival of back-to-school does bring with it a whirlwind of field trips. These outings are usually chaotic, echoing with the loud cheers of excited kids. They tend to be less than adequately supervised, resulting in a cacophony that rivals a rock concert. I completely understand the excitement; my kids share the same enthusiasm. But the sudden surge of loud, identical-clad children can be a bit much for our little ones, who are used to a quieter learning environment.
Back-to-school also signifies the beginning of our homeschool co-op, where I suddenly have to coax my children out of their cozy beds every Friday morning. This is no small feat for kids accustomed to enjoying leisurely mornings. I scramble to get everyone dressed, often postponing my own morning routine until later in the day. Gathering supplies, packing lunches, and preparing for social interaction can be quite the challenge, especially with my two older kids who have ADHD. The co-op environment, while beneficial, doesn’t cater to IEPs, so it can certainly be an adventure.
And let’s not forget the allure of school supplies during this time of year. Unlike traditional students, we don’t have a lengthy list of specific items to buy. Instead, we stock up on colorful watercolor sets and gallons of glue for various creative projects. We indulge in an abundance of markers and crayons, with the occasional protractor that no one ever seems to need but is too tempting to resist. It’s a joyful experience to come home and explore our new supplies.
As I scroll through the back-to-school photos online, a twinge of nostalgia hits me. I think about capturing my own kids in a similar way, but I imagine them lounging in their pajamas, hair tousled, holding signs that read: “Liam: Reading – Grade 5, Math – Grade 1, Social Studies – What do you want to know about the Revolutionary War? Science – All the things.” It may not fit neatly on a sign, but that’s the beauty of our unique homeschooling experience.
This lifestyle isn’t for everyone, but it’s perfect for us. If you’re interested in exploring home insemination, check out this article on artificial insemination kits that can help guide you through the process. For more insights on family-building options, refer to this excellent resource from Resolve: Intrauterine Insemination.
In summary, while the back-to-school season ignites a flurry of excitement for many, for us homeschoolers, it remains just another chapter in our ongoing journey of learning and discovery. Embracing our own rhythm allows us to savor the joys of education without the pressures of traditional schooling.