What the Amish Taught Me About Family
Homeschool
Audio By Carbonatix
As a homeschooling mom of ten, I’ve learned that the best lessons sometimes come from the most unexpected places.
Years ago, my daughter introduced me to a remarkable couple in Montana who had grown up Amish. They had endured unimaginable loss—the death of two daughters in a tragic accident involving a horse-and-buggy and a semi-truck. Their story deeply moved me, and it opened the door to an entire world I hadn’t yet explored: Amish culture, history, and faith.
The more I learned, the more I realized I wasn’t just researching for novels—I was being changed.
In fact, my time studying the Amish for my novels and for The One Year Book of Amish Peace led me to rethink the way I was living and homeschooling. I saw how often I was trying to do too much, how easily I filled my days with busyness, rather than purpose. And slowly, I began to pare down. I started saying “no” to things that weren’t essential and saying “yes” to the things that truly matter.
Learning to Embrace Simplicity
The Amish live slow, grounded lives. They prioritize time with family, shared meals, hard work, and deep faith. Their way of life reminded me of this biblical truth:
“Better a little with the fear of the Lord than great wealth with turmoil.” — Proverbs 15:16 (NIV)
We now prioritize family dinners, quiet time with God, and being home together. Even though we have six kids at home, for this season we’ve chosen not to participate in extracurricular activities. It’s not always easy, but it’s been worth it.
Our son, his wife, and their little ones join us for dinner two to three times a week. I love cooking and gathering around the table with our growing family. These moments create roots—something the Amish understand so well.
Training Our Children Through Togetherness
The Amish often live near extended family and do life together—working, celebrating, and worshipping side by side. Their children are raised not just by parents, but by a community.
We’ve chosen to follow a similar model in our home. We share the load. Everyone has responsibilities, and even our younger ones contribute. One of my favorite Amish proverbs says:
“A man who gives his children habits of industry provides for them better than by giving them a fortune.”
Scripture echoes this idea:
“Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.” — Proverbs 22:6 (NIV)
Grace Over Perfection
As I learned more about the Amish and their Anabaptist heritage, I also reflected on their dedication to living a certain way. But I began to ask myself—am I doing the same in my walk with God? Am I clinging to law more than grace?
Whether we wear bonnets or baseball caps, whether we drive buggies or minivans, the truth is—we all struggle with the same inner battles. And we all need the same Savior.
“But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’” — 2 Corinthians 12:9 (NIV)
It’s not about having a perfect homeschool, a spotless house, or kids who always behave. It’s about living out grace. It’s about resting in the love of Jesus and pointing our kids to Him in the process.
What We Can Learn from the Amish as Homeschool Families
- Simplicity creates space for connection. When we slow down, we notice each other more.
- Shared meals are powerful. It’s where stories are told, hearts are heard, and memories are made.
- Children thrive with responsibility. Giving kids real jobs makes them feel valuable.
- Faith is caught, not just taught. Living your faith in front of your kids makes the biggest impact.
- Community strengthens us. Whether it’s extended family, church, or homeschool co-ops, walking together matters.
A Prayer for the Homeschool Family Seeking Simplicity
Lord, thank You for the gift of family and the calling of homeschooling. Help us to slow down and see what matters most. Give us wisdom to say “no” to the things that distract and “yes” to the things that nourish our souls. May we live lives full of grace, rooted in faith, and rich in love. Amen.
Additional Resources
Want to learn more about what I discovered while studying the Amish? Be sure to check out The One Year Book of Amish Peace—a devotional filled with insight, simplicity, and grace for daily life.
This daily devotional contains interesting facts about the Amish, recipes, and information about the way the Amish handle money, rear their children, and center their lives on faith in God. You’ll be inspired to slow down and find ways to simplify so that you, too, can experience God in the ordinary.
What’s one simple change you’ve made in your homeschool this year that has made a big difference? I’d love to hear in the comments!
