I never imagined that one day I would be a homeschooling mom of three boys. However, after having children, and as the topic of school started coming up, I started to realize that I wanted something different for my kids’ education. I did not want the forced learning, stressful testing, and pressure to compete that kids are having to go through. I wanted my kids to love learning like they do organically, since the day they were born. I wanted my kids to understand that there is more to life than academics, such as being kind, being a part of a community, having empathy for others, and so much more.
The thought of homeschooling was scary and overwhelming, yet exciting at the same time. I knew this was what I wanted for my children’s education and for our family to do together, but the questions were never ending. How are they going to socialize? Are you using curriculum? Which curriculum? What will their schedule look like? How do you know if they are academically where they “should be?” Although I knew this was the right path for us, I can’t deny that the pressure and lack of support was discouraging.
And then we found WonderHere! WonderHere has been perfect for us and our needs as a family. I started homeschooling not wanting curriculum or any sort of “schooling.” I simply wanted my children to learn through life and what they were interested in, leading and guiding them along the way. But I found that having some sort of structure part of the time was best for us. WonderHere gives us that structure and guidance that reassures we are in the right direction. It has taken so much pressure off of me as a mother and has allowed me to truly enjoy learning through life with my kids at home.
WonderHere has been the perfect fit for us and filled a void we didn’t know we had. It isn’t just a school or homeschooling co-op. It is a village. A community of like-minded families where a child’s love for learning is embraced and nurtured. A group of parents who want something different for their kids. It is truly our second home. It is a place where my kids love to be and learn with their best friends of all ages and backgrounds.
Our homeschooling journey has evolved a lot since we started, but I must say, we are pretty happy in this place and moment. If you are a homeschooling parent who has figured out what works for you, that is amazing! Good for you! If you are new at this homeschooling thing, know that it is indeed a journey. There is no wrong or right way to homeschool. Go with the flow and explore different options until you find what works for your family. For now, this is what works for us. WonderHere is our partner on this adventure and we couldn’t be happier.
Idalisa
The journey of Homeschooling was something that I had ever considered. To be honest I looked forward to the few hours my boys were in school, so I could have me some “me” time. I am blessed to be a stay at home mother; it has its pros and cons!
In 2014 the journey began for me, and I was thrown onto this path of homeschooling. I had NO clue how to do what needed to be done, but I knew I wanted what was best for my boys. Without going into details, let’s just say, I had to make an executive decision on moving forward and taking control of my sons’ education. It was scary and nerve racking all at the same time! There have been times that I cried because I just was not sure if my sons were getting what they needed in order to succeed. Nonetheless, I pressed forward. Here we are almost 5 years later, and I would not trade it for the world.
If I were to give any advice it would be to get connected with a homeschool group or organization. For me, becoming a part of WonderHere for a year was a great decision for my boys and me. Remember you are NOT a school, allow free flow and change to happen. Planning is a must; but you also must stay flexible. Learning can take place anywhere at any time, and truth be told you learn more while simply living life. I taught my son math, spelling, reading, all while cooking eggs! We counted the eggs, spelled the word eggs, and read the word egg off the carton… this is just one creative way to educate your child.
I would say that if you can homeschool your child, do so, embrace it, and enjoy it. Knowing I have the ability shape and mold the education that will empower my child makes me smile every day. I learned to take it one day, and sometimes one second at a time.
Latisha
Wanting to learn MORE about the wonderful homeschooling resources available in our community? Drop in at our Homeschool Resource Pop Up Saturday, April 27th from 10 AM to 12 PM as we showcase the best local homeschool groups, programs, curricula, and materials! We’ll also have a Q&A panel of homeschool parents who know their stuff and can help answer some of your most pressing questions, as well as a rummage sale for you to purchase some gently used homeschool materials! Whether you are a long-time homeschool parent wanting to know what else is out there, or new to the homeschool scene and a little bit overwhelmed by all of the options… this FREE event is for you! Hope to see you there 
If you are interested in having a booth at this event, please email us at info@wonderhere.com.
