Homeschooling looks different for every family. For some, it’s a choice rooted in faith. For others, it’s about flexibility, personalized learning, or having more control over what their children are taught. Every family’s homeschool journey is deeply personal—often planned, researched, and intentional.
Ours wasn’t.
Homeschooling was never part of our plan. Even after both of our children were diagnosed with autism, we never imagined we’d step into this world. We both worked full-time, and like many parents, we assumed that public school—flawed as it was—was simply our only option.
The Public School Struggle: When the System Doesn’t Fit
Our daughter spent one year in special education preschool and then did kindergarten at home during COVID. When she entered public school for first grade, the challenges became clear. Her classroom aide changed regularly, preventing her from forming meaningful connections.
When she got bored, she would stim—bouncing or vocalizing—which led to her being sent out of the classroom to “regulate.” As a former elementary school teacher, I understood the importance of maintaining a learning environment for all students. But despite my suggestions to help her refocus productively—like finishing her work in a quieter space—the school’s response was to send home incomplete assignments.
After long days at school, we’d end up spending evenings redoing missed classwork through tears and frustration. It was exhausting and strained our relationship. During her final IEP meeting, I requested more challenging academic materials to keep her engaged in class—but the answer was no.
That’s when I decided to homeschool her, starting in 2nd grade. With supportive colleagues and a flexible schedule, we adjusted our days so I could work and still teach in the afternoons. It wasn’t easy, but it quickly became clear it was worth it.
A Turning Point: When Safety Matters Most
Our son’s story was different, yet equally life-changing. He loved being around other kids in special education preschool, but due to COVID and school turnover, consistency was rare.
One day, while celebrating my birthday with a beach trip, we picked him up early from school—and that’s when I discovered something that stopped my heart. When changing his shirt, I found a cluster of bruises across his chest.
Our son was five years old and completely non-verbal.
When I reached out to his teacher and the school, no one could explain what had happened. My husband and I made an immediate decision: he would not be going back until we found answers. No one followed up with us. Two weeks later, we withdrew him.
At first, I simply wanted him to be safe. That was the only goal. But once we began unschooling—and later homeschooling—the learning naturally followed.
Homeschooling Out of Necessity: Finding Purpose in the Chaos
Our homeschooling journey was born out of necessity, not preparation. I wanted my daughter to stay challenged academically while working on her emotional and social development. For my son, homeschool was about ensuring his safety and peace.
I often tell myself: until my son can talk—until he can tell me what happens at school—he will be homeschooled. Because he’s not going to be another statistic.
And if you’re reading this feeling lost or uncertain, you’re not alone. It’s okay if homeschooling wasn’t part of your plan. It’s okay if you’re still figuring it out as you go. We didn’t have it all together either—and honestly, we still don’t.
Lessons Learned: Trial, Error, and the Path Forward
Homeschooling while working full-time came with plenty of trial and error. I constantly felt like I wasn’t doing enough. That pressure eventually pushed me to pursue my PhD—something I didn’t need to teach my children, but something that has helped me better understand educational systems and advocate for them.
Through this journey, our family has identified what matters most—our non-negotiables. We built our homeschool around those values and continually reassess how to meet them. That mindset has opened doors to child-led learning, creativity, and flexibility.
Every homeschool family looks different. For some, child-led learning flows naturally. For others—especially those with non-verbal or semi-verbal children—it’s a completely different experience. The comparison trap in the homeschool community can be real and painful, so remember: your journey is your own.
Our Mission: Building a Community of Support
We’re sharing our story because we want other families to know they’re not alone. Whether you’re just starting out, struggling to balance work and homeschool, or navigating special needs education, there’s a community here for you.
This space is dedicated to support, guidance, and connection—a place where you can find:
- Encouragement and understanding
- Real, flexible frameworks
- Ideas for child-led and adaptive learning
- A listening ear from families walking the same road
If you’re stepping into homeschooling with nothing but hope, faith, and a little uncertainty—you’re in the right place. Comment and let me know what brought you here. What are you looking for?
