Homeschooling wasn’t always part of the plan. Like most families, we started off in the traditional school system and followed the usual path. But as the years went on, especially as we approached the middle grades, we started feeling a nudge—something wasn’t working for us anymore.
After a lot of reflection and late-night conversations, we decided to make the leap and begin homeschooling in grade 6. It wasn’t a decision we took lightly, but now that we’re here, I can honestly say it feels like the right fit for our family. Here’s why we chose to homeschool—especially at this stage in our child’s learning journey.
1:1 Support That Makes a Difference
One of the biggest reasons we made the switch was to offer our son more personalized, one-on-one support. Every child learns differently, and while teachers do their best, classrooms are busy places. At home, I can slow down when something is hard, move ahead when something clicks, and create a learning environment that supports his unique strengths—especially with learning disabilities in the mix.
10 Signs Homeschooling Might Be Right For Your Family
Still on the fence about homeschooling? I created a simple, no-pressure checklist to help you explore whether this path might be a good fit for your family. 10 Reasons Homeschooling Might Be Right for Your Family is a printable guide you can read over with a cup of coffee and reflect on at your own pace. Whether you’re feeling burned out by the traditional school system or just curious about your options, this checklist will help you see the bigger picture and give you the clarity you’ve been looking for.
We Can Cater to His Learning Style
Our son isn’t the sit-at-a-desk-all-day type (and really—who is?). Homeschooling lets us build lessons around how he learns best, whether that’s hands-on projects, movement-based activities, or using tech in creative ways. When I see him light up over something that truly connects with him, I know we’re doing the right thing.
More Time Together as a Family
We realized we were rushing through life—morning hustle, after-school rush, homework battles, quick dinners, bedtime. Homeschooling gives us back slow mornings, real conversations, and a stronger connection with our kids. We don’t want these years to fly by in a blur—we want to be present for them.
Fewer Negative Influences
Like many parents, we started noticing the influence of peers more and more as our son got older. Not all of it was bad, but not all of it was good either. Homeschooling allows us to be more intentional about the people and values we surround him with during these important years of growth.
Life Skills and Farm Life Learning
One of the most beautiful things about homeschooling is how learning doesn’t stop at textbooks. Our son is now learning how to grow food, care for animals, fix things around the house, and help with real-life projects on the farm. These moments are just as valuable—if not more so—than any worksheet or test.
Freedom from the Desk
Middle-grade kids are full of energy and curiosity, but traditional classrooms often require them to sit still and stay quiet for long stretches of time. At home, we take breaks when needed, go outside to reset, and move our learning space around as it fits the day. There’s so much freedom in that.
Aligning with Our Values
As a family that’s trying to live simply and intentionally, homeschooling just fits. We want to raise children who know how to think for themselves, who are rooted in what matters, and who know that learning isn’t something that only happens between four walls from 9 to 4.
Homeschooling in grade 6 might not be the “normal” path, but it’s the one that’s working for us. If you’ve ever considered it—or if you’re in the middle of weighing your options—I hope our story encourages you. You don’t have to follow the crowd. You can choose what’s best for your family, your child, and your season of life.