How Homeschooling Changes Over the Years

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Embracing Growth and Grace

If there’s one thing I’ve learned after homeschooling for over 30 years, it’s this—homeschooling doesn’t stay the same. And that’s a good thing.

When I first started this journey, I had a house full of little ones running around while I attempted to teach phonics, multiplication tables, and handwriting. At one point, I was homeschooling ten kids at once, juggling lessons, diapers, and meal prep—all while trying to write books and keep some semblance of order in our home. It was exhausting, wonderful, and completely chaotic in the best way.

Fast forward to today, and things look very different. Seven of my children are now thriving adults, each finding their own path in the world. And now, I’m homeschooling just three kids. These days, homeschooling feels quieter, more focused, and, honestly, a little bittersweet. I love watching my children grow, but I also know how quickly the years pass.

Through all the changes, one thing has remained the same—God’s faithfulness. He has led us through each season, equipping us with wisdom, patience, and grace along the way.

If you’re in the trenches of homeschooling young kids, or if you’re adjusting to homeschooling teens, know this—homeschooling will change over the years, and that’s okay. In fact, it’s part of God’s beautiful design for our families.

Here are five ways homeschooling changes as our kids grow—and how we, as homeschool parents, can adapt, encourage growth, and even gain wisdom along the way.

1. The Learning Shifts from Hands-On to Independent

When our kids are young, homeschooling often involves a lot of hands-on learning. We sit beside them as they sound out words, work through math problems, and write their first sentences. We guide their hands in science experiments and read aloud for hours. It’s a precious time of bonding and discovery.

But as kids grow, so does their ability to work independently. Older students tackle research projects, take online courses, and dive deeper into subjects of interest. They learn to manage their own schedules and take ownership of their education.

How to Foster Growth:

• Provide resources and tools that encourage independent learning.
• Teach time management skills and allow room for self-directed study.
• Encourage curiosity and let them explore subjects they are passionate about.

📖 "The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out." —Proverbs 18:15

2. The Role of the Homeschool Parent Shifts from Teacher to Mentor

In the early years, we are the primary teachers—leading lessons, instructing on every subject, and guiding every step. But as our kids grow, our role shifts. We become mentors and facilitators, helping our children learn how to learn rather than just teaching them facts.

By the time our kids reach the high school years, they need us less for direct instruction and more for guidance, encouragement, and discipleship. We help them think critically, navigate choices, and seek God’s wisdom in all they do.

How to Foster Growth:

• Have deep discussions about faith, life, and the world.
• Encourage them to take responsibility for their education and decisions.
• Remind them that learning isn’t just about academics—it’s about wisdom, character, and faith.

📖 "Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it." —Proverbs 22:6

3. The Homeschool Schedule Becomes More Flexible

When all my kids were little, we had a structured homeschool routine—morning circle time, snack breaks, and a pretty predictable daily flow. But as they grew older, I realized that homeschooling didn’t have to look like traditional school.

Now, with three kids left at home, our schedule is much more flexible. Some days are filled with structured lessons, while others are more project-based. Some weeks, we do school in the morning, and other weeks, we adjust based on activities, interests, and family needs. The beauty of homeschooling is that it can evolve to fit our family’s rhythm.

How to Foster Growth:

• Be flexible and adjust the schedule based on your children’s learning styles and life circumstances.
• Prioritize discipleship and real-world learning, not just bookwork.
• Embrace the freedom that homeschooling allows for different seasons of life.

📖 "There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens." —Ecclesiastes 3:1

4. The Conversations Get Deeper

When my kids were young, our conversations revolved around favorite books, the adventures of the day, and what snack they wanted next. But as they’ve grown, our conversations have changed.

Now, we talk about faith, friendships, future goals, and even the hard questions of life. As homeschool parents, we have a unique opportunity to disciple our children and walk with them through their doubts, dreams, and struggles.

How to Foster Growth:

• Make space for conversations—over meals, during car rides, before bed.
• Be a safe place for them to ask hard questions and wrestle with their faith.
• Share your own experiences and lessons God has taught you.

📖 "Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone." —Colossians 4:6

5. The Focus Shifts from Teaching to Preparing for Life

In the early years, homeschooling is about teaching the basics—reading, writing, and arithmetic. But as our kids grow older, we realize that education is about far more than academics. It’s about preparing them for life.

Our goal isn’t just to raise well-educated kids—it’s to raise disciples of Christ who are prepared for whatever God calls them to do. Whether they go to college, start a business, become missionaries, or work in a trade, our job is to equip them with the skills, wisdom, and faith they need to thrive.

How to Foster Growth:

• Teach life skills alongside academics (budgeting, cooking, car maintenance, etc.).
• Encourage them to seek God’s direction for their future.
• Pray with them about their dreams, goals, and callings.

📖 "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters." —Colossians 3:23

Growing Alongside Our Children

As homeschooling changes over the years, we grow, too. We learn to let go of perfection, embrace each season, and trust God more deeply. We realize that homeschooling isn’t just about educating our children—it’s about shaping hearts, nurturing faith, and building lifelong relationships.

So whether you’re just starting out or you’re adjusting to an emptying homeschool nest, remember this—God is guiding you through each season. Every change, every challenge, and every new stage is an opportunity to lean on Him and watch Him work.

Homeschooling may not stay the same, but His faithfulness never changes.

How has your homeschooling journey changed over the years? I’d love to hear about it in the comments!

Blessings,
Tricia

Resources

Here are great books for homeschool families!

• Wonders of the Ocean Realm
• Prayers That Changed History
• Homeschool Basics
• Create a Dynamic Unit Study From Any Novel

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!