15 Best Homeschooling Tips I’ve Learned as a Mom of Ten

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When I first started homeschooling over 30 years ago, I had no idea what I was doing. I just knew God was calling me to teach my kids at home, and I wanted to follow His lead. Today, after homeschooling ten kids (with many of them now graduated and thriving as adults), I can look back and see what worked, what didn’t, and what truly mattered most.

If you’re a homeschool mom—whether brand new or a seasoned pro—I want to share my best homeschooling tips to help you create a home where learning and love flourish.

1. Start Your Day with God

The best homeschooling days don’t start with math, history, or even coffee—they start with Jesus. Reading the Bible together in the morning sets the tone. (Pro tip: Even 5–10 minutes of Scripture and prayer can change your whole day.)

“Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be provided for you.” — Matthew 6:33 (NLT)

2. Keep a Flexible Routine

Structure is important, but rigidity will leave you frustrated. Create a rhythm instead of a strict schedule. Kids thrive when they know what’s coming next, but they also need space for creativity and rest.

3. Read Aloud—Every Single Day

If I could give only one piece of advice, it would be this: read to your kids. From picture books to classic novels, reading aloud builds vocabulary, sparks imagination, and strengthens family bonds. Some of our sweetest memories were made on the couch with a stack of books.

4. Write It Down

Homeschooling moms juggle so much. Keep a planner, a whiteboard, or even sticky notes to track assignments, field trips, and progress. When I don’t write things down, I forget—and my kids remind me!

5. Don’t Try to Recreate Public School

Homeschooling isn’t about eight hours at a desk. It’s about learning as a lifestyle. Shorter lessons, hands-on projects, and real-life applications work better at home.

6. Lean into Your Child’s Interests

One of the biggest blessings of homeschooling is tailoring education to your kids. If your child loves dinosaurs, cars, or baking, weave those passions into math, science, and writing lessons.

7. Build in Breaks

Both you and your kids need downtime. A 10-minute walk outside or a quick snack break can reset attitudes faster than pushing through.

8. Find a Community

Homeschooling can feel isolating, but you don’t have to do it alone. Join a co-op, church group, or online community. Some of my dearest friendships were formed in living rooms full of kids with crayons and books.

9. Make Chores Part of School

Life skills matter. Cooking, cleaning, laundry, and budgeting are just as important as grammar and algebra. When my kids help with dinner, they’re learning fractions and teamwork at the same time.

10. Keep It Simple

The endless curriculum choices can be overwhelming. Don’t chase every shiny program. Pick what works for your family—and stick with it.

11. Celebrate Small Wins

Finished a tough math lesson? Celebrate. Got through the week without tears? Celebrate. Learning isn’t just about big milestones—it’s about the little victories along the way.

12. Use History and Stories to Teach Values

As a historical fiction author, I love teaching through stories. History isn’t just facts and dates—it’s people, choices, and lessons. Kids remember stories far longer than worksheets.

13. Guard Your Joy

Some days will be hard. You’ll wonder if you’re enough. (You are!) Don’t compare yourself to the “perfect” homeschool mom online. God chose you for your kids—on purpose.

14. Remember the Why

Homeschooling isn’t just about academics—it’s about discipleship. It’s about teaching our kids to love God and love others. Keep the eternal perspective when the daily math struggles feel overwhelming.

15. End the Day with Gratitude

At dinner or bedtime, share one thing you learned and one thing you’re thankful for. Gratitude changes everything—your heart, your kids’ attitudes, and the atmosphere in your home.

Final Encouragement for Homeschool Moms

Homeschooling isn’t about doing everything perfectly. It’s about showing up, loving your kids, and trusting God with the rest. Looking back, I don’t regret the messy days, the unfinished lessons, or the piles of laundry. I treasure the conversations, the laughter, and the chance to watch my kids grow—not just in knowledge, but in character and faith.

Friend, you can do this. Take it one day at a time. God is faithful, and He will multiply every effort you place in His hands.

Hope and Refreshment for Homeschooling Parents

Need more ideas and advice on homeschooling? Pick up a copy of Homeschool Basics. Receive tried-and-true homeschool advice from veteran homeschooling moms Tricia Goyer and Kristi Clover. We dish out practical help on getting started and staying the course. Homeschool Basics will remind you that the best homeschooling starts with the heart. Packed with ideas to help you push aside your fears and raise kids who will grow to be life-long learners. Kristi and I believe that homeschooling can transform your life, your home, and your family. Mostly, we believe homeschooling can truly prepare your children for the life God’s called them to live. Don’t let doubts hold you back any longer. Get Homeschool Basics on Amazon Now!