Never let your schooling interrupt your education.

Simple Homeschool Launch Week Giveaway

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This giveaway has now ended. Thanks for entering!

In order to celebrate the launch of our network this week, the Simple Living Media editors thought some giveaways were in order! And not just one, mind you, but each and every blog in the simple living family is hosting a giveaway today.

Trust me, you are going to want to enter them ALL.

Here on Simple Homeschool, some amazing sponsors have helped us put together an incredible package for one lucky winner. That’s right, one winner will receive all the items listed below.

Let’s take a look!

Imagine Childhood

Imagine Childhood believes that children should experience the world through their own eyes, ears, fingers, and toes. That direct interaction with nature is the best way to learn about the world, and that open-ended imaginative play is the best way to learn about what it could be.

All the lovely items in their store reflect that ethos. If there’s one place a homeschooling parent can go to get inspired, this is it!

 

The winner of this giveaway will receive a $50 gift certificate to Imagine Childhood!

Peace Hill Press

Peace Hill Press works to make classical education possible for parents, teachers, and students. In their store you’ll find history, literature, and homeschooling helps designed to train the minds of the next generation.

Peace Hill Press carries the well-known Story of the World series by Susan Wise Bauer. These texts help history come alive for young minds.

The winner of this giveaway will receive the entire Story of the World Volume 1 (Ancient Times) Combo Pack. This includes one copy of the revised paperback text, one copy of the bound Activity Book, and one copy of the Test and Answer Key.

Flipflops and Applesauce

Flipflops and Applesauce is the work of artist Chrissie Rouse. At her blog she encourages families to “let the phone go unanswered and let the beds go unmade. Instead, steal those moments to sit side-by-side, play face-to-face, create, read and just be together.”

I love that advice! And with her innovative homemade coloring books, Chrissie’s given families one way to spend that quality time. These e-books feature coloring pages on everything from numbers to shapes.

Chrissie is giving the winner a downloadable copy of each of her coloring books–six in total!

BusyBodyBook

With BusyBodyBook planners, managing your time is a breeze! BusyBodyBook family calendars provide each family member with their own column to organize and track their schedules and activities while coordinating with each other side by side.

I appreciate that these organizers are also versatile. You can assign spare columns to household projects, babysitter instructions, meal planning, personal goals, holiday or vacation preparations, important clients, kid’s school subjects or extracurricular activities.

Perfect for a homeschooling family!

Today’s winner will receive one one BusyBodyBook planner to help you get organized.

Steady Days

And just for fun, I’m also happy to include my newly released book Steady Days: A Journey Toward Intentional, Professional Motherhood.

Steady Days is divided into four sections: getting organized, retaining enthusiasm, learning together, and making memories.

The book takes you through the process of becoming a professional mother: one who is excited to spend time with your young children. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by a lack of direction in your parenting, Steady Days can help.

The winner will receive one signed copy!

Valued at over $175, this giveaway package is sure to put a huge smile on one lucky reader’s face.

How to Win

Everyone has three chances to win. Choose one or all three!

1. Comment on this post, and answer this question: What do you enjoy most about homeschooling?

2. Subscribe to Simple Homeschool by email or in your feed reader. Leave a separate comment letting me know you’re subscribed.

3. Blog about this giveaway. Leave a separate comment with your post address.

This giveaway will end this Saturday, February 13 at 11:59 p.m. CST. I hope you win! Comments on this post are now closed. Winner will be announced soon.

Be sure to check out the giveaway baskets on Simple Mom, Simple Kids, Simple Bites, and Simple Organic for more chances to win!

About Jamie C. Martin

Jamie is an introverted mom of three, who loves books, tea, and people (not always in that order), and avoids answering the phone when possible. She co-founded SimpleHomeschool.net in 2010 and began IntrovertedMoms.com in 2020.

Jamie is the author of four books, including Give Your Child the World (reached #9 on Amazon's Top 100 Best Sellers list), and her latest release, Introverted Mom (an ECPA bestseller). Her work has been featured by LeVar Burton of Reading Rainbow, the Washington Post, Parents, Today Parenting, and Psychology Today.

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Misha

    I enjoy the ability to be spontaneous, the time to be with family and the joy of watching my kids learn and love life.

  3. Beth

    I love that we can do things as a family when we want to and not be tied to anyone else’s schedule. I also love that my son, who learns while moving around, can do that and he doesn’t get in trouble.

  9. se7en

    Oh I am so excited about this new “simple” project you have begun… I love simple kids and I am so looking forward to simple homeschool and all it has to offer!!!

  10. se7en

    Subscribed via rss and I meant to say: my favorite thing about homeschooling is the freedom. Freedom to follow the kids lead, freedom to learn all sorts of things I never did in school, freedom to take time off and explore the world, freedom to follow our passions… In a word: Freedom!!!

  11. Michelle M

    I’m not homeschooling yet, technically, as my children are only 3 and 1. But I have started researching it as I feel very drawn to the idea, I feel it will really suit our family.

  13. Camden

    We are just starting out with a 4.5 year old and a 2 year old… so we mostly read good books and play games with math and phonics. I love being on the learning journey with my kids and being able to be the one to first see those “aha” moments.

  15. jana

    Hi,

    I would enjoy most, if I were allowed to homeschool. Here in Germany it is forbidden! I would really like the freedom and to know that my child is allowed to go its own way and to follow the thing she is interested in.

  16. Mary Teresa

    I haven’t actually started homeschooling yet, since my little one is only 4 months old, but I am excited to do so. One of the bigger reasons is the control over what my child learns and the speed they learn it at.

  18. Linds

    We are still in our first year into homeschooling with our oldest so far- but we love that he is able to discover at his own pace and delve into the topics that catch his interest.

  21. karen

    What I enjoy most about homeschooling: not being tied to the schedule of a public or private school! We take our own days off as needed, and have school on some “school holidays”.

  27. Kate E.

    I haven’t officially started homeschooling yet as my kids are 3 and 1, but I agree with the above comments–I really like having freedom to do what is best for our family and to explore areas that interest myself and my kids. (Perhaps I am idealizing it too much, though! We’ll see…)

  31. Kelly Summers

    I am not in the homeschool state yet…so I do not know if I can qualify. But i will be there soon and need all the advice I can get! I think I will enjoy the flexibility and control.

  34. Kathy in IN

    I love snuggling on the couch reading a book together. Another favorite part of homeschooling is watching the light turn on in their eyes when they get it or make a new connection.

  36. ella

    I love having the freedom to follow what the children are interested in and having the time to study that as long as they want to.

  37. Nicole at Burning Bushes

    I’m just starting to teach a bit of pre literacy and other logic lessons to my nearly 2 and nearly 3 year olds….I love it so far because I get to watch their sense of accomplishment first hand and enjoy the lessons learned throughout our days together.

  43. Brookiej

    I just love that it fits my daughter (she’s 5)…it’s wonderful to be with my girls every day, but the bonus is that it really is what they need. I’m just blessed enough to be their mommy–awesome to snuggle on the couch teaching them to read! 🙂

  45. heather

    Wow! What a fantastic bundle!! I’m so excited about this new “branch” of Simple Mom– can’t wait to see what you guys have in store!!

    As for homeschooling… spending my days with my little people, even when those days don’t run so smoothly… that’s what I cherish most about homeschooling~

  46. Jacqui

    Technically I haven’t started homeschooling yet – my daughter is due to start school next year, we have been drawn to homeschooling and are looking at it in more depth now. What I think I would most enjoy is helping my children develop a passion for learning and having the privilege of seeing them learn new things every day firsthand!

  47. Laura

    Oh my goodness, each giveaway is better than the last but the one here at Simple Homeschool has got to be the best of them all!

    I am only semi-homeschooling right now but gearing up (gulp) to do it full-time next year. I love being able to infuse our family culture with a love of learning — in our house, learning is not relegated to a classroom or some separate time or place, but is part of everything we do.

  50. Melissa Ellison

    I have 5 children and sometimes it is not always easy having them at home with me everyday, all day … but, I love it!! The best part is being together and being part of their lives – the Bible commands us as parents to teach them “diligently” while we “sit in our house,” “walk by the way,” “when you lie down,” and “when you rise up” – that is what we are doing. 🙂

  52. Ivy Mae

    While I’m not homeschooling yet (6 month old!), I can’t wait to take all I learned from teaching in a classroom and adapt it to my own child’s particular needs. Trying to meet 30 kids’ needs is one of the most frustrating parts about classroom teaching.

  56. bryssy

    I am a long time Simple Kids reader and am really excited about this site. I’ll be leaving my full-time job to start homeschool with our oldest next year. What a change! I so excited about this and the guidance I can find here. Thanks for the chance!

  59. beth lehman

    have been reading simple mom and sometimes simple kids. you have plenty of good resources for kids whether homeschooling, unschooling, or supplementing your public schooling. thanks.

  60. MomStarr

    I am so thankful I found these sites. I am a mom of 7 (11 down to 1) and one on the way and always need advice and ideas for our homeschool.

  65. Heather @Critter Chronicles

    I’m not a homeschooler. I’m still exploring that option, but in the meantime I supplement her education with at-home activities. And I have *big plans* for projects for us to work on together as she gets older. I’m looking forward to being a big part of her education through the years.

  67. Shelby

    My favorite thing about so far is watching my daughter (Kindergarten) learn to read and develop a love of reading. I love that she takes books with her everywhere she goes. She is always reading something.

  69. Grace

    I haven’t started homeschooling (yet), but I’m looking forward to all the information your blog will bring! I think what I would enjoy most about homeschooling is being with my children and knowing exactly what they’re learning.

  71. Laura

    I don’t home school yet (my son is 9 months), but I’m looking forward to supplementing his education with at-home activities once he is in school and also giving him an early education at home. I can’t wait to tailor his education to suit him as an individual.

  72. Sofia

    What I enjoy most about homeschooling is the freedom! We have time freedom, educational freedom, and freedom to pursue the things our family deems important. I also enjoy the fact that people are now more accepting of our non-conformist ways; now they just think we’re a “weird homeschooling family”! Ha!

  73. Kristi

    I love that I can take my child’s unique needs and tailor a school lesson directly to them. If he doesn’t grasp a concept right away he’s not going to be pushed along to ‘keep up’ with 25 other kids and we can take the time until he does grasp it fully. While he’s only 2 & 1/2 and we just do pre-school it’s still important. Also the opposite is true, if he gets something right away he doesn’t have to ‘wait’ (& be bored or missing out on learning MORE) for all the other kids to get it. It’s so flexible and ‘packable’ when your hubby is in the military I think it’s just great to homeschool because you can ‘take school’ anywhere!

  76. Deb

    What a great site! What do I love about homeschooling? Hmmm… the list is too long! 🙂
    We are in our 8th year of learning at home together, my daughter is 12 and my son is 10 and have always been home. In the beginning we took it year by year, but now I truly can’t imagine traveling this road any other way!
    Blessings on your journey!

  77. Kate Frishman

    After nine years as a homeschooling mom, I have to say that what I love most changes nearly every day. 🙂 Today we’re watching a major snowfall. I’ll change our school plan so we can read Snowflake Bentley and spend some time outside enjoying nature. Flexibility is a wonderful thing!

  79. Emily

    I subscribe through Google Reader. I’m interested in homeschooling. I have a 17 month old. I’m trying to gather as much information as I can, because my husband isn’t convinced that it is a good idea.

  81. gina

    i enjoy the flexibility of homeschooling to study what interests us along the way, to enjoy “snow days” when the sun is shining, to include the whole family in our learning experience. what a joy!

  82. Carrie K

    I love when the kids are EXCITED about doing certain subjects and learning! I also love learning myself 🙂

  84. marilyn

    I don’t homeschool yet – but we are seriously considering it. I supposed my most favorite thing would be all the time I get to spend with my kids, discipling them and truly getting them ready for life

  85. Stephani

    For our little family, homeschooling means cherished time together – learning and growing side by side.

  86. Amber

    The thing I love most about homeschooling is that every day I’m helping to turn their young, wayward hearts toward their Creator. We’re enjoying some flexibility too since my sister-in-law and my nieces and nephews are coming for the rest of the week- we have some fun field trips planned!

  87. Sherry

    What a great giveaway! I love being able to teach my children without having to worry about what they are learning as I am in on it. 😀

  89. Amber

    I subscribed on Google reader yesterday after Tsh announced the launch of SLM- I was very excited to see a homeschool addition to the Simple family!!!

  91. Vicky

    I don’t homeschool but I try to supplement what she does in school. I really enjoy seeing that moment when something “clicks” and she gets it and is so proud of herself.

  95. Susan

    My favorite thing about homeschooling is the friendships among my children. They are still young but as my oldest gets to the age where he should be going to school every day I am so encouraged to see the elaborate games they play together. They are really best friends.

  96. Sheri

    One of the things that I like about homeschooling is that I get to spend ALL day with my kids! I love it! While the days can get busy and hard, I cherish each moment, knowing that I will never get another day like that again.

  97. Cristy S.

    I love the freedom homeschooling affords me. My daughter is a ‘different’ learner than most, and will get all caught up in an activity. I like that we don’t ‘have to’ move on to the next subject because of 20 other students.

  100. Karen

    Teaching my children according to their individual needs & strengths is my favorite part of homeschooling. Having children that are late readers, I am particularly sensitive to society’s unrelenting pressure to have children that do “this” by age 4, and “that” by age 5, and so on… I don’t escape the criticism but am able to shield my children from it and allow them to develop at the pace I believe God intended for them as individuals!

  104. Michelle

    I am subscribed to your site via RSS feeds. Looking forward to adding you to the many sites I follow on homeschooling. I am in discovery mode in deciding if homeschooling is right for our family.

  107. Leah S

    Nothing like a head start in homeschooling! While I haven’t had my baby yet, I’m definitely a strong advocate for homeschooling – I was completely homeschooled and loved it! 🙂

  108. mamabeck

    I admit it. I’m addicted to “that 1,000-watt lightbulb moment” when the child ‘gets’ it. Sigh. I love spending the days with my children, and love that I am relearning the things that I blew off when I was in school!

  109. Melanie

    I come from a country where (unfortunately) homeschooling isn’t allowed, so my son visits a “Nature Kindergarten” where he’s outside five hours a day, all year round. As an alternative to homeschooling we decided to “afterschool” and we really enjoy to learn and explore things together. I’m a elementary and highschool- teacher and for me it’s a total new experience to learn in a “team of two” and to be guided by the interests of my children (even if we tried to do this in school as well).

  112. stephanie

    Well, we’re just doing preschool this year, but I love being there when my daughter “gets it.” That moment when it clicks, you know?! So fun to see. 🙂

  117. MichelleH

    ‘What do I enjoy most about homeschooling?’ is a difficult question. We’re in Year 7 and I love everything about it! If I must narrow it down, it’s that we have such a close family. The older kids cuddle up and read to the youngest (not sure who enjoys that more), the older ones cuddle with Dad while telling him about their day, grandparents call to ask what they’re working on or what field trips they can join us on. If they left every day we would miss so much of that. I’m grateful I can be with them as they grow. I am blessed that I can enjoy them all day, not just a few hours between school and activities/dinner/bedtime.

  122. Katie

    I haven’t started homeschooling yet–my boys are 3 and 1–but I’m looking forward to starting soon! I love reading about what other moms enjoy about homeschooling. Thanks for this awesome giveaway!

  124. Carolyn

    I haven’t started homeschooling yet, but when I do, in a few months, I anticipate the bit of structure helping out my two kids and me to feel more relaxed and in control. Make sense?!

  133. Mary

    I love being able to teach and learn from my son. I love to watch his face light up when he figures something out for the first time, and I love to see the gears turning in his head as he asks questions.

  136. Pan Jia Le

    I used to be a classroom teacher and now I am just entering the stage of educating at home. I love both the one-on-one, focused time I have with my son as well as seeing him grasp new concepts.

  141. Jenny

    I love seeing my children “get it”. Especially a younger sibling sitting in and listening to an older child…and the younger one gets it too!!

  143. Stefani M.

    What do I enjoy most about homeschooling? Teaching my daughter at her own pace according to her interests.

  145. mmm619

    I enjoy the freedom and flexibility of homeschooling. It’s so wonderful to be there for those moments when my son figures things out.

  146. Shannon

    Well I haven’t technically started, though we do a homeschool lite with our 3 year old. I love that my husband and I will be guiding them and raising them with the fear and admonition of the Lord.

  147. Tamrah T.

    I don’t officiallt homeschool my children BUT, I do not let that stop me from redeeming my time with them for teaching. The one thing that I enjoy most about teaching at home is the curriculm that I use, as a parent teach is specific to each child’s needs.

  152. Arielle

    Mmm, I remember LOVING the read aloud. It was the only time my busy young sons sat still. We cuddled and snuggled and enjoyed many adventures. Now they are taller than I and I MISS read aloud time. I keep thinking I’m gonna make them sit and snuggle and read with me anyway. :0)

    One way I get encouraged in the winter (for the next year as well) is to attend a homeschool convention. To see thousands of other families on this journey is encouraging. I also get to meet many folks that actually write the curriculum that I choose, and its fun to learn new things. Cincinnati has a huge one in April.

  155. Streuselmama

    What I love most about homeschooling…for myself, I love that I get to spend so much time with the kids. Life is really about all the little moments, and I’m so grateful that I can be there to share them with the kids. For the kids, I love that they can pursue an interest to its natural fruition, whatever that may be.

    Thanks for this terrific giveaway – I’m so excited to see where this blog goes!

  156. Jenna C.

    I haven’t really started homeschooling; my oldest is 2 1/2. But the more I read about it, the more interested I am in it. I hope to find many resources on this blog.

  160. KM

    Great giveaway!

    My favorite thing about homeschooling is being able to give my children lots of freedom to play- I think that’s what childhood is all about.

  161. Amy P.

    I am currently homeschooling my two boys, Henry is in 2nd grade and Lewis is in Pre-K. My favorite part about homeschooling is seeing the light come on in their little brains when they learn something new or see the connection between several things that we have been learning. It is an awesome responsibility, but one that comes with many rewards!

  166. Lexie

    I love being a part of the learning process with my kiddos. I don’t have many memories with my mom as a child, and I am so excited to be a part of thier learning memories.

  169. Jill

    I love getting to watch them learn things. I am glad I don’t miss that experience. What a privilege!

  171. Beth

    I love being my kids’ tour guide to the world! It’s great to learn along side them, to see them get excited about things and make connections that I didn’t even see.

  174. Kati

    I’m just starting to explore homeschooling (my son’s 2.5), but the thing that most interests me about it is the flexibility — both of our time and of how I can teach to meet his needs and take into account his interests.

  177. Pamela O.

    Seeing my almost 4 year old show excitement about learning. We have just begun the homeschooling path and I am so excited to learn a lot from this blog!

  178. Christy

    I love homeschooling because, as a teacher by trade, I love to teach! And I love homeschooling for its flexibility–of time, of subject matter and of spontaneous exploration–and for the extra time for me to be with my little ones who are only getting bigger every day.

  180. Claire

    I love the flexibility. My daughter doesn’t have to conform to someone else’s schedule that might not mesh well with her abilities. We are still at the preschool level, but I am thinking more seriously about possibility continuing to homeschool her. It is a little frightening though!

  182. Penny

    I love learning right along with my kids. They are so fun to be with. Thanks for starting this website.

  183. Loren

    What I enjoy most about homeschooling is just being able to spend time with my daughter and experiencing the amazing curiousity and wonder she has about things.

  185. Lady

    I just started, some say too young, my child is 14 months, but already I see a difference in our day. I love how we a consistent 15 -20 minutes a day with a set activity of learning. He loves the one on one time and I’m excited to try more things this spring!

  188. laura

    I love the connections between our family members and that we have more time to nurture them being home together.

  189. Rana

    Watching the expressions on my childrens eyes when I see them grasp a new concept. It is the best thing in the world to see and it makes me so excited and happy to be able to share this with them.

  194. KC

    I love that there is time for my 3 daughters to bond and play together. My husband and I tell them that they are each others’ best friends for life. I like to think that the time together now helps with that.

  195. Bethany

    I’m just looking into home school for my son, so I haven’t started yet. There are so many things that make it appealing though. I’m looking forward to learning with him, watching him experience new things, find new interests, and so many more!

  196. amanda anderson

    I love the time. The time to stop at the park and play, the time to sit by the fire, the time to visit the museums when no one else is there. The time we gain by not having to get everyone up, fed, dressed, and in the car (rush, rush, rush!) by 7:55 to get to school by 8:05, the time saved by not working on repetitive homework all evening, by the children not attending endless “meetings,” assemblies, fundraising events, changing classes, etc, at school. The time to be together and quiet, outside and inside, frustrated and joyful together. Time with friends, time to travel, time to sit by the window.

    If you ever wish to start a conversation with a homeschooler, just ask why they do it. We can’t stop talking 🙂

    p.s. we love Story of the World! We have this, but would love to pass it along to some friends who are preparing to homeschool for first grade!

  198. Angel

    I love that my children are still “naive” in a good way. I’m not sheltering them by keeping them out of the world, but slowly easing them into it. So many 8 year olds I see have already experienced so much they shouldn’t have to. We do tons of stuff outside the home, but usually it’s with more than just children their age. It’s refreshing to be around responsible and caring teens who are good examples for my children.

  200. Tracy

    Since ouroldest is pre-k age we do a lot of homeschooling type of activities and he loves them. I love most that we as parents can teach our children best. No one will ever love them as much as we do and the homeschooling approach is so rewarding for both the children and us parents.

  201. Jodi G

    I enjoy reading aloud, watching the boys learn new things and hearing all the priceless treasures that come out of their mouths. My middle son told me the other night, “Jesus wants all of me”. That’s when you realize they really are listening!

  202. Meghan

    I don’t homeschool yet, but I am really looking forward to it. I like the idea of being able to tailor my daughter’s schooling to her specific needs and interests.

  206. amanda anderson

    I subscribe through bloglines

    would also like to second that I love homeschooling as an avenue to preserve my children’s innocence and naivete. I love that my seven year old still believes in fairies and santa claus…and that her older friends (who know better) help keep her wonder alive!

  208. Lorus

    My favorite part of homeschooling is knowing my children, spending time with them, and watching them develop close bonds with each other despite the wide range of ages.

  209. Tracy

    I’m so excited to follow Simple Homeschool on my google reader! Thanks for making SLM so inspiring for us moms. =)

  211. Tina

    I get to be their number one role model and their number one peer!

    I get to be the biggest sinner in their lives and I get to show them, first-hand, the mercy and grace and power of God to transform ugly hearts!

    I get to HEAR their thoughts and answer their questions… questions that Time would not allow were my munchkins in school.

    But what do I enjoy MOST?!? Ugh! One thing that I MOST love about being with these little people everyday?!? We get to ENJOY GOD TOGETHER! When it comes down to it, I wouldn’t trade THAT for lunch-dates with my girlfriends, a perfectly tidy house, or an extra income… I wouldn’t trade THAT for ANYTHING!

  212. Tiffany

    I like being able to watch my children learn and explore their world! I’m thankful I get to be there with them to experience that instead of just hearing about it at the kitchen table.

  213. Sheila@Momfessions

    I just started home-school preschool with my daughter (2.5 yrs) and my favorite part so far is HOW EXCITED she is when I tell her it’s time for “school”. May she never lose that excitement for learning and playing! 🙂

    (Now I’m almost in tears… thinking about her growing up so quickly!)

  215. Angela

    I don’t currently homeschool but I’m hoping to in a year, so I really value reading others experiences and “methods” in making it work for their families.

  216. Gina

    I’m so excited about this giveaway…it’s a good one!! what I love best about homeschooling? Well, I’m new to it, I started Kindergarten with my son in the fall. I love that I get to see what and how he is learning and see him read his first word, solve his first math problem, and I taught him how. It’s really awesome. Challenging, at times but I wouldn’t trade the time for anything! Thanks for this blog I’m really looking forward to learning from it!!

  221. Karen

    I love that we’re in charge of our time. We can sleep in or wake up early to do our work. We can go on a Field Trip or call a snow day. We can do “extra” history. We can read poetry books all morning. It’s our time. 🙂

  223. Laurie Magee

    I love that I can tailor my homeschooling to my daughters needs. She isn’t stuck with just one kind of curriculum or learning style. I also love watching her mull over things and seeing the light bulb turn on as she really gets the concept.

  224. Izzy

    how fun!!:) My favorite part is watching my daughter’s “light bulb” go one when we are learning new things.Also she has some special needs..Apraxia of Speech.. and home school allows her to relax and feel comfortable to express herself. I’m excited about this network and have signed up my email for them all…Thanks:)

  225. courtney

    I love that as parents we are our children’s first and most influencial teachers. We can teach a love for learning that hopeful our children carry with them throughout their lives!

  227. carolyn

    My daughter is only 2 1/2, so not “officially” homeschooling. But I found it really gratifying when my mother-in-law commented that my daughter knew everything that her older niece is learning in Montessori. It made me realize that I can homeschool and teach my kids. I am very interested in finding good resources and networks of other homeschoolers.

  229. melissa

    I just love all the time & teachable moments we get to share. It’s so fun to learn alongside them!

  230. becky fitch

    Buddy’s only 2 but I think homeschooling will give him more opportunities than traditional education

  232. Jen Spilker

    I don’t homeschool yet, but I’m really looking forward to it, as I already love watching the wheels turn while my kids figure things out.

  233. Paula

    Reading at least 3 books a day to our son has provided him with a huge vocabulary and desire for knowledge that just continues to grow.

    Debating on homeschooling for the upcoming year…regardless of our choice we plan on being very involved in the extra curricular activities which for us means continuing to supplement the education system with our own education values (church, nature, arts, literature, science).

    I visit all these sites and love incorporating them into our learning life.

  234. Stephanie

    I don’t homeschool my 18 month old yet, but I’m looking forward to being totally involved in what my daughter learns every day and learning a few things myself 🙂
    As for my entry, I subscribe with Google Reader.

  235. Bethany

    I am beginning to HS my son this year in the fall and am looking forward to so many things… but really I just want to second everything that Tina said – Amen sister! 🙂

  237. Geneva

    My favorite part of homeschooling is knowing that I’m taking an active part in my sons’ education. I believe each of my four boys deserves the one-on-one time to help him grow in his own way & I can do that.

  239. Candy

    My fave part of homeschooling is watching my kids “get it.” You know. When a concept has eluded them for so long and then it just clicks? That moment right there makes it all worth it!

  243. Holly

    We intend to homeschool (oldest is only two so far) so I am thrilled you’ve started this community.

  246. Kelly Gillespie

    We don’t home school, so I don’t know if that disqualifies me for the giveaway. (full disclosure, right?) I would say we are supplemental-schooling parents 🙂 My husband and I both work full-time, but nights and weekends, we are full-on discovery-mode with our daughter. She’s 5 and ridiculously intelligent! The things she remembers from school, we then ‘research’ in anyway we can (museums, books, internet, projects and crafts, etc) I love the look of wonder on her face when we show her something new!

  248. Jennie F

    My children aren’t quite school age yet, but I love the everyday learning they do. They are full of questions from the minute they wake up until they go to bed at night, and I feel so blessed that I am able to be here to answer them!

  249. Meg

    My favorite part of homeschooling is that my children have time to be kids. They get to spend afternoons outside using their imaginations and playing as hard as they can. I don’t have to wake them up before daylight to rush about just to be on other people’s schedules, and therefore we can enjoy each other more deeply. I feel privileged that I can focus on God in our school . . . more than they even could at a private Christian school. We can pray or give Him glory at any time during each and every day.

  253. Paula

    Still in preK land here but we enjoy our nature walks, reading books and crafting to develop those little hands, eyes and brain.

  256. Ryane

    I love learning along side my kids. I love to watch their excitement as they learn something new or create something wonderful. They are growing up so fast, I can’t imagine not having this time with them.

    Thanks for the giveaway! Can’t wait to see more from this blog!

  257. Bev

    I am not homeschooling – yet. I have just begun to think about how it might work for our family. Thus my interest in this site!

  259. Sherri

    I’m not actually a homeschooler because its just not economically feasible for my family. BUT I love blogs/websites on this topic. I do everything I can to either enhance or supplement my son’s education. I know that public school’s don’t always teach children in real life topics and in the way I would like to see him taught (i.e. more hands on rather then lecture) so I try to offset that by working with him at home on topics that he’s either not taught at school or on new ways to learn the topics he’s learning. I have found it can be a nice balance considering…

    I’m also a subscriber via google reader.

  264. Meg

    I just announced the information and link for this website on my private blog: markandmegherring.blogspot.com

  265. Tiffani

    One of my favorite things about homeschooling is teaching my kids to read! It is so fun to see them “get it” each step of the way. (I love Phonics Pathways for teaching reading, too.)

  266. Jennie F

    My children are not yet school age, but I love the all day learning that they do everyday. They’re full of questions, and I feel blessed that I am the one who gets to answer them!

  269. Keilah

    I have just started home educating our daughter and I like the flexible schedule and I like being able to teach her about God and not have to worry about what junk they are teaching her in school. Thanks for the giveaway!

  271. Lisa Wallner

    I’m already subscribed to every one of your sites. I love Simple Living. That is all!

    As for homeschooling? It’s a toss-up, my favorite thing: being able to have Pajama Day any day I want? or watching my children grow and learn? Hmm…

  272. jj

    does it count that i don’t homeschool yet? with a 1 1/2 year old and a baby due this summer we have already started talking about their education and what it will look like. we are very open to homeschooling and i look forward to learning more about what homeschooling looks like! thank you in advance for sharing!

  273. Emily Krenzke

    We are life learners. I’m a grown homeschooler myself. Our family is always learning, discovering, growing and evolving. We get to be witnesses to each others lives. We’re here for each other all day, for all the peaks and valleys. The kids learn how to have relationships and work through problems with a life coach by their side (mom and/or dad). I have always known that I would homeschool my children and I’m glad for the freedoms that allow us to do so!

  274. Jamie

    This is an AMAZING giveaway! I am new to homeschooling and all of this would help so much, and help brighten this month! 🙂 Thanks for the chance.

  279. megan

    I love that my kids’ education is exactly what each one needs – exactly when they need it. I also love that we can take a break for a morning and play in the surprise snowstorm!

  280. Cassie

    My kids aren’t school-age yet, but I still love having “school time” with them everyday, and watching them grow and learn. The joy in their eyes when they experience something new for the first time (even something as simple as painting or playdoh), is amazing!

  281. Keilah

    I just subscribed via email

    Having a hard time entering each giveaway, I keep getting an error.
    I left my reason for homeschooling too but don’t see it

  288. Rebecca K

    I love being there during the best part of their day and watching them develop and learn. Teachers and schoolmates aren’t getting the best of my children – we are all getting the best of each other and truly sharing in one another’s lives.

  293. Karen

    We will soon be homeschooling our youngest, 10yo. I look forward to helping her learn at her own pace, instead of being held back by the other kids in her current classroom.

  294. Pennie

    Homeschooling is something that I have been researching diligently for my children. Trying to get past all of the junk in my brain, and realize that I can do this.

  295. Sarah G

    We’re just starting to gear up for kindergarten with our oldest. I love the ability to tailor material to her ability to understand.

  296. Catherine

    Pursuing the kids’ interests as the priority instead of any other agenda – tailoring education to the child.

  299. Amanda

    I love seeing my kids learn, and their excitement for it, and being there when they make huge milestones.

  301. Diana

    We currently do a bit of homeschool as a supplement to public school, but I am exploring taking the plunge full-time. I love the shared experience of learning with my daughter.

  302. Nichole Lemmon

    Sorry! I didn’t answer the question. I do not homeschool yet, but my favorite part is the family time and KNOWING what you children are learning. You can’t not be involved when homeschooling.

  308. Stacie@HobbitDoor

    I LOVED being homeschooled–the freedom to learn at one’s own pace and not be locked into a building all day long. I am looking forward to being able to homeschool our kids one day. Right now I have a 14 month old that I think will one day thrive on it.

  309. Kristy

    my oldest is only 3 so we are just doing pre-school. I enjoy that I am the one who has the privilege of teaching him. Plus, I know exactly what is being taught and what areas need improvement.

  310. Kristen

    We’re just homeschooling preschoolers still (4 and 2), but what we love is keeping them close, having the opportunity to really know our littles, and being able to explore this big, big world together!

  313. zzipper

    I enjoy helping my siblings homeschool their kids as it allows us to teach them at the right speed for them and not their classmates. I belive it keeps them from being bored by lessons that are too easy.

  316. Unsinkable Kristen

    This is awesome! What a great giveaway!

    My favorite part of homeschooling is how much it is requiring me to grow into a better person, mom, wife. You simply can’t do it and stay the same – you have to grow.

  317. daffodil lane

    Wow! What an awesome prize package! I love homeschooling because I can teach my kids through their own passions, and make connections all day in their learning. Their ‘lessons’ aren’t compartmentalized by worksheets and time slots, but come about more organically depending on current iterest, the weather, and activities in our city. Hikes and field trips paired with a good book teach them well!

  318. TheresaB

    My favorite thing about homeschooling is the ability to delve deeper into an area that particularly interests one of my kids. Also, the flexibility to take time during our day to do other things, like bake, read, play.

  319. Sherri

    I don’t technically homeschool. We afterschool. Since our local ps provides few art/humanity extras, we focus on art appreciation and some extra history right now.

  324. Leslie

    I have graduated 4 children in homeschooling and have begun the adventure again with my last child who is in 2nd grade. I love homeschooling because it gives my children time to learn and explore life as a family.

  325. Jennie Riddle

    I enjoy homeschooling my boys because I can see all the new things they learn first hand not through a newsletter or phone call from a school teacher. All children are a precious gift and I want to spend as much of this short time with them as possible.

  328. Suzanna

    I love homeschooling my three kids (ages 7-12) because I get to be the one they come to with their questions. I love watching them grow up and I love that I am not missing their childhood!

  329. Beth V

    I love not having to rush everyone out the door each morning and just the time to “do life” together. I’m looking forward to great content here. Thanks!

  330. Khadija

    I love missing all of the headaches associated with school: waking up early, making lunches, less time with siblings, endless hours of boredom with easy curricula, etc. etc. Homeschooling Zindabad!

  334. Amy

    My son is only 2 1/2 years old, so we are not “homeschooling” yet, but we do plan on doing it once he is at school age. I love the idea of being my children’s primary influence in their lives and getting to learn with them and enjoy life with them!

  335. Melinda

    I just made the decision to home school my children, and have been flooded with an outpouring of love and support by my homeschool AND my non-homeschool friends! One of them sent me the link to this page, and I am so happy that she did! I am looking forward to the beginning of what I know will be an inspirational, educational, and fantastic journey with my two amazing children! Thanks for providing the support I need to move forward. 🙂

  337. Sarah

    I love home schooling because of how my children enjoy learning, to them it is not a chore to be done it is a chance to discover something new.

  339. Abby

    My most favorite part of being at home with my little ones is being witness to the miracle of wonder and pure joy. While they are not quite old enough for homeschooling, I look forward to our future of learning from one another.

  340. Mel

    I feel so lucky to be with my kids during the day – to watch their progress and excitement for learning.

  341. Audrey

    Just letting you know that I’ve subscribed. Looking forward to receiving the newsletter—what a great blog!

  342. Tina

    I am just starting homeschooling, and the thing I love most is watching my daughter learn new things and enjoy it. Sharing the journey of discovery with her is priceless.

  343. Holly

    I have a 1 and 3 year old so I am so excited to be homeschooling them as everyday is a new and wonderful thing. I look forward to gaining more and more wisdom as I soak it up like a sponge with great resources like this site all the moms who have gone before me.

  345. Gayle

    I’m a single mom working outside our home. I don’t homeschool, but I’m eager to explore ideas and resources to enrich the time I spend with my daughters when we’re not at work and school.

  346. Bri

    I only have a one-year old, but I enjoy so much teaching him about everything in the world around. He has no borders to his knowledge – he’s got the whole world just waiting to be discovered. It’s exciting to be the one (well a team with dad), who is leading him on his exploration!

  347. Audrey

    My son is still a toddler, but I do feel that we’ve started “homeschooling” already. I try to plan our days around a theme or concept that I think he will enjoy. I love sharing in his excitement on discovering something new or encountering something he’s previously only seen in books. The best thing about teaching a little one is getting to relive all the wonder of childhood.

  349. Jennie

    i actually don’t homeschool because my children are 3 years old and 4 months old…but i am considering it, so i love learning and reading all about different techniques/practices online, gathering all the info i can so we can make a decision in the next couple of years!

  350. Sarah

    I’m not actually homeschooling my 2.5 year old yet, but I love seeing him discover the alphabet and how pieces of a puzzle fit together. I can only imagine that it’s just as fun watching him learn to read and write.

  352. Shelsy

    Well, my daughter’s only 10 months old, but I plan on homeschooling someday and love just absorbing information so I’ll hopefully be ready when the time comes. I’m excited to be able to school her at her own pace–not try to conform her to someone else’s time frame.

  357. Sunshine Mama

    I’m not homeschooling yet, but I like that I’ll be able to channel my daughter’s natural curiosity into learning by focusing on the things that are of interest to her.

  359. Sunshine Mama

    I’m not homeschooling yet, but I like that I’ll be able to channel my daughter’s natural curiosity into learning by focusing on the topics that are interesting to her.

  360. Megan W.

    What I love most about homeschooling is that because I am my children’s mother, I am automatically qualified as the best teacher for my child. I know my little girl better than anyone else and know how I can engage her in the world around her.

  369. Kel

    I love that homeschooling allows us to have a different schedule than normal school schedules allow. Life doesn’t have to be put on hold because of school. School can happen whenever and wherever!

  370. Allie Brannon

    I love it when my boys remember something we’ve talked about and refer to it in a different context. We’re just starting this homeschooling journey, and we’re excited.

  378. jaime

    I’m starting homeschool with my son who is 4 in September. I’m excited about helping him learn about the world and nurturing his natural talents. He loves music and nature and I’m excited to expand on those interests and help him find new ones.

  381. Christa

    I would love to be entered in the drawing. What I love most about homeschooling is the flexibility. On a day when things go not as planned, we can change things. When the weather is bad at 6:30 am and the poor neighboorhood kids are up and on buses, my kids are sleeping soundly. When they discover something for the first time in learning, I can share it with them. We can talk about God during our days, always without consequence. Mostly, I just like these kids. I love them. They are so much fun!
    Christa

  385. HopiQ

    What an incredible giveaway. I am blown away! And yes, I would absolutely LOVE to win all these amazing goodies.

    What I love about homeschooling? Where do I start? I love learning right along with my kids and sharing in the joy of new experiences and knowledge.

  389. Tracy

    The pace of home schooling and family time are the greatest joys. I also believe the ability to go after children’s interests and strengths are wonderful. But nothing tops teaching them about the Lord.

  392. Abbigale

    I will finally be able to start homeschooling in about a year and a half! But I love watching my child achieve and grow!

  393. Mady

    I’m in high school and I used to be a public school student, so I know exactly why I love homschooling: I don’t have to wait for the rest of the class to keep up, I can go at my own pace; I have the ability to learn what I want, when I want; and most importantly — I don’t have to wake up early.

  396. Jewelly Hart

    What a great new resource for the homeschooling community {and for those who are considering homeschooling, or who want to be intentional about educating their children at home, regardless of their formal educational vehicle of choice}! I am currently the mama of an infant, however I was homeschooled and I plan to homeschool my little guy! I love the flexibility homeschooling provides – flexibility to learn in a manner that suits the particular child, to do school in a fun, interesting, sometimes unconventional fashion, to let life teach!

  397. Juanita

    My daughter, who loves kindergarten, has asked to be homeschooled next year. I’m trying to read everything I can about it. I subscribed by RSSOwl.

  403. Koren

    absolutely one of my fav parts about homeschooling is that my kids are rocking out to praise and worship music while laying on the floor doing their spelling words. that could never happen in a classroom. (lots more important reasons we homeschool too but right this minute thats what i see and am thankful for).

  404. Lora Lynn @ Vitafamiliae

    I enjoy the simplicity. I know homeschooling isn’t really “simple.” But the actual act of Staying Home brings a steady simplicity to our days. We don’t run hither and yon. We are home, we are together. It’s still messy and chaotic, but it’s contained. 🙂

  407. laura

    i love knowing that each of my children can learn at their differing paces. i love that it brings us closer as a family. i love the flexibility in schedule and the continuity even if we move or travel. and i love that the main influence in their lives at such a vitally important time is coming from the people who know them best and love them most.

  412. Casey

    I like that when something interests my kids we can take our time with it and really explore it instead of having to push on to the next thing.

  413. sara

    I like those little “a-ha!” moments most. Just seeing my boys light up with learning is the best!

  414. Roxanne

    The thing I love most about homeschooling is choosing what my children learn… and don’t!
    Very excited about simplehomeschool! Congrats!

  416. Michelle Quinn

    What I enjoy most (and I’m a classroom teacher too) is the flexibility the ability to jump into what my children are interested in; to follow their passions, in the moment. It’s much harder to do in the classroom.
    Thanks!

  417. Mother of Pearl

    My absolute favorite part of homeschooling is sitting on the sofa with my kids reading all our books, talking, singing, and snuggling together.

  423. Holly

    I am not a homeschool teacher yet. I have 3 boys and 2 are school aged. I am gleaning info from blogs and websites like this one to make an informed decision. Thanks.

  427. Danielle

    Hi, Jamie! I guess you could say I am homeschooling L (2.5 years old)! I am one of the few mothers in my social network who is not enrolling her child/ren in a preschool program next year. I love being home with L and seeing her grow in many ways, but especially in the way she desires to learn more about God. I feel responsible for being the one to guide her through this journey and point out teachable moments each day. I hope to coordinate a preschool coop with some friends this fall- 4 kids, 4 mommas, and a once or twice a week time to get together for literature, crafts, and socializing. Sharing the duties, I think it would look like this: 2 weeks each month you are involved in facilitating the preschool time, 1 time per month you play with the younger siblings, and 1 time per month you get a few hours to catch up on housework, read a book, or take a nap!

  428. Jess

    The thing I love most is watching my son grow and learn right in front of me. There’s nothing better than that screech of, “LOOK! I DID IT!” I hope to hear it for many more years to come.

  431. Wendi

    My favorite thing about homeschooling is watching the friendships that are developing between my children ~ since they are together all day, everyday, they are becoming each other’s best friends.

  432. Shannon J

    I really love having so much time with my kids. And of course being able to follow our interests wherever they lead.

  437. Betsy

    The best thing about homeschooling is seeing that light bulb light up when one of our little ones understands a concept or masters a skill for the first time. It’s such an honor to be by their side when that happens.

  438. Amy

    I love that I get to spend all this awesome time with my daughter. Watching her grow and learn all about this really cool world! Thanks for the giveaway!

  439. Sharon

    I’ve only just begun homeschooling, but I am looking forward to teaching my son at his pace and in his learning style. He is such a creative and talented child, I want to foster every aspect of his talent and help him have fun with his family at the same time.

  441. Alisa

    Well, I haven’t officially started homeschooling yet as my kids are not school age but I guess I am constantly teaching them! I love to see that spark when they learn something new or something just clicks.

  444. billie

    I’m looking forward to seeing my little bits grow and develop and learn for myself. Instead of having to wait for a teacher conference meeting to hear about it 2nd hand. 🙂

  446. ~Heather

    Being an employed mum, I can only homeschool part time, but I love one-on-one time with my sons and seeing their faces light up when they click with a concept! ~H

  450. Stacey

    I most enjoy the closeness of our family. Our entire family eats 3 meals a day together (my husband works across the street). Our younger and older siblings work and play together so much more than if they went off to school.

  458. cheryl

    We’re still in the preschool phase, but I think what brings me the most joy is being there to watch my children when they “get” things. Actually seeing them learn and grow! Such a blessing.

  459. Eddie

    The very best of it all is the leaps in learning and the side benefit is always being together. Or should that be the other way around?? Hmmm…either way is great!

  460. Marissa

    1. Well, I’m just diving into homeschooling as I plan ahead for my oldest son who’s just now preschool age. I think what I like the most is how organic it can be – how flexible and efficient at the same time!

  461. Amy R

    I haven’t started officially homeschool yet…my kids are still preschool age. But we definitely learn at home and I am interested in gathering all of the resources that I can!

  467. amy

    What I love most about homeschooling is the freedom to pursue the things that are most interesting to us, to learn by doing and the ability to incorporate our faith into our learning- okay, so that is more than one thing, but the most important motivators to keep us going, that and no homework 🙂

  470. Maria

    What I love the most about homeschooling is the flexibility to follow our own interests (and the flexibility in general!).

  474. Jessica Young

    I love the possibilities in homeschooling. And the not having to drag my kids out to drop them off at school at 7ish. And saving $1000 per month on Christian school for 4.

  480. kate

    I love homeschooling because it’s the best opportunity to strengthen connection as a family, and for each family member to find their own unique path in learning.

  481. Wendy

    I don’t homeschool yet. But, after teaching for 11 years, I am now staying at home with my 15-month old and reading up on all I can get my hands on in preparation for homeschooling him. So excited about all the new blogs!

  483. CrossView

    I love that I get to be with my kids, period. We do the educational stuff but we talk, really talk. They, and my husband, are my favorite people!

  484. Jennifer Jo

    I most enjoy the flexibility, being with my kids, not following someone else’s schedule (I suppose that goes under flexibility), and taking things slow and easy.

  488. Leslie

    What do I enjoy most about homeschooling? Well, I’ve only been homeschooling for a few weeks now, but what I already enjoy is the closeness and connectedness I am feeling with my kids. I also like the way it is pushing me to engage more with my children, learn along side them, get creative and I’m actually having a lot of fun and really ENJOYING my children, which is so cool. I’m excited about this new website and know that I will be checking here frequently! I would LoVE to win this giveaway!

  498. Erin

    My daughter is only 8 months old but I’m researching our options for school and looking into homeschooling.

  500. Christina

    I love that I get to participate in those “a-ha!” moments with my children in homeschool. I get to watch it firsthand not just read about it on a progress report.

  502. Leah F

    My daughter is 10 months old but I already love teaching her new things and watching her figure them out. I am also of the opinion that even if we do not homeschool our daughter I am still her teacher.

  506. Lisa

    As a new homeschooler, I love that we can explore things at my child’s pace, when he grasps something easily there is no need for days of drilling, and when something grabs his interest, we can explore it to his heart’s content! Not possible in school, you have to ‘walk the line’ and that doesn’t work for all kids!

    Great blog!

  508. Heather Brooks

    We have just begun the journey into homeschooling by beginning to incorporate learning and circle time for my toddler…the best part is the one-on-one interaction, seeing my child learning personally instead of being told on paper by someone else and I look foward to the freedom it will extend our military family in the future!

  512. Angela

    I love to see the joy in my son when he figures something out. You can really see the light go on in his head. My son is only three, so we haven’t started formal home-schooling yet, but I love seeing him accomplish something. There is nothing better than we he reads a word on his own, or understands a concept like red and yellow make orange. It’s the best part of my day!

  515. NicoleK

    My oldest is in half-day kindergarten and we’re planning to homeschool next year… it feels like the most natural thing we’ve ever done as we’re always seeking out information together! So excited.

  518. Jill T

    Oh there’s so many reasons! Definatly the bonding/ spending time but also the ability to teach the way I feel is best for each child…any individualized lesson plan!

  519. Lorelei Cleary

    Well…I’m just getting started, but I absolutely love the connections my children and I are making together – not just knowledge but connections, but life connections.

  523. Erin

    I’d love to win! I’m planning to start homeschooling our daughter in the fall. I’m excited for the time with her, and to teach her, as well as learning with her.

  528. kristi

    i homeschool a 12, 10, 8, 5 and 2 year old. my favorite part is making cookies when we feel like it. going to the library when we feel like it. going outside to dig in the dirt when we want. freedom is the best part of homeschooling.

  529. Colleen

    I most treasure those ah-hah moments, when you can see the connections made and the wheels turn. I also just like being with them all day (most days…).

  530. Katie Leonard

    The thing I love most about homeschooling is really pretty simple sounding I guess… I love having my bebe at home. And along with that, I love the relationships that are being fostered with her younger siblings.

  532. Lisa

    These are incredible resources, thanks! My little one is still a babe, but I am reseaching home schooling and would love to win these resources. Thanks, L.

  533. Allie

    I love home schooling because I get to experience my kids learning first-hand. And the flexibility is great!

  537. Melody

    We love Homeschooling, this is our first year. I love being able to spend the time with my kids, but I also love seeing them learn. Seeing the moment when it clicks. Seeing them “get it” for the first time and the excitement and happiness on their faces.

  540. Kristen

    My favorite thing about homeschooling is seeing my three children still fast asleep in their beds at 9am, hours after the school bus has come and gone. 🙂

  543. mandy

    We are just barely starting homeschooling, but I LOVE that I am the first to see them learn – to see them be surprised or amazed (or confused or frustrated). I love learning with them.

  546. Tiffany

    I’m still considering homeschooling (my oldest is 2), but the one thing that I think I would enjoy the most is that I know what he’d be learning and that he’d get the attention he needed. He’d learn what he needed to in just enough time needed… one of my fears is him sitting in class bored all day because he’s already learned the concept the teacher is working on. This happened too often with both myself and my husband.

  549. lisa k

    The freedom is what I love the most about homeschooling. The freedom to go when we want and the freedom to learn what we wish.

  551. Jillian

    I discovered your steadymom site a while ago via the Lovely List, and find it funny that you have popped up as part of another favorite blog site. While we are currently exploring French immersion for our kids, I can see the benefits of homeschooling and hope to incorporate a few ideas in our routine. Good luck with maintaining three busy kids, two sites and homeschooling – you shoot for the stars, don’t you?

  552. Stephanie

    I love seeing the wonder and amazement of learning something new on my girls’ faces. And I love being amazed at just how smart they are! I love that they are growing up in an environment where learning is a life-long love – not something to be endured, but something to be celebrated with joy! A natural part of the ebb and flow of life.

  553. Alyson

    I love the time freedom/flexibility homeschooling gives us. We have so much more time together as a family since we can work around my husband’s schedule.

  554. Kayla

    My daughter is approaching her first birthday so we do not homeschool yet (although we are teaching her sign language!) but I was homeschooled my 5th grade year and it made such a difference in my life and education! With having that one on one attention we were able to focus on the things I had troubles with (in my case, math) instead of having to move ahead with the class and getting farther and farther behind.

  560. Cynthia Pitman

    The thing that I like the most about homeschooling is the gift of spending so much quality time with my children.

  563. Jamie Tobin

    I LOVE schooling my son at home,this has been the best decision for our family.It is ALL about him and our family.We enjoy learning together,that is the best thing.I love to learn about things with my son. The family time is awesome!!!!!

  565. Shawna Powell

    I am new to homeschooling but can already see how it has brought our family closer together. I love that we are free to study what we want, when we want to. It’s been neat to see my husband be in a “moment” with our kids and realize that it’s a teachable moment.

  568. Alisha

    What I Love about Homeschooling: The flexibility of schedules and knowing that my kids are learning for life instead of just to pass a test.

  570. Amy Redelsperger

    Wow, This is incredible. I “homeschool” in some respects as I have two preschoolers and a kindergardener. She is in public school right now, but my mommy heart can’t take it any more. We will be bringing her home soon. I am subscribing, and will be following as I begin this exciting journey of homeschooling!

  574. Sarah

    I don’t officially homeschool yet, though my 3 year old son and I are involved with a preschool homeschooling co-op called Joy School. I love the chance to watch him grow in his learning and abilities. I need all the help I can get because I am nervous for the day when I will be his only teacher (he’s a feisty little guy). I am excited about this new site to help me in preparing for the coming years.

  578. Stacie

    My daughter turns 3 next week and we plan to start homeschooling in the next months or so. As a former teacher, I am excited about having the ability to spend as much time as is needed to ensure mastery, but also to spend extra time on whatever subjects out there my daughter shows genuine interest in.

  580. Rachael

    I love watching my children learning through their interactions with the world around them. I enjoy watching them learn through exploration and creativity.

  583. Robin Bird

    Learning alongside my children. Their enthusiasm drives my brain to open and their sticky fingers put it all into perspective!

  586. Megan

    And we don’t homeschool yet, but we’re trying to start early education with the same principles.

  588. Tricia

    For our family, homeschooling is the ultimate in simplification. Yes, it’s a lot of work, but so is sending the kids to traditional school – between the bake sales, volunteering for the PTA, helping out in the classroom, chaperoning field trips, and keeping track of the mountain of permission slips, book orders, teacher’s notes, and completed schoolwork….then multiply that by four kids….it’s a full-time job! Homeschooling gives us the freedom to learn, without jumping through a dozen hoops.

  590. Jaime

    This is an awesome giveaway!
    I love the way that homeschooling offers my kids the opportunity to spend so much time together. They love each other but homeschooling helps them to go beyond that. They spend most of their time together: playing, reading, studying and causing chaos.

  592. Amanda

    Well, I don’t homeschool; I have a 2 year old…so maybe I can’t enter. Over the past year or so though, I’ve come to think it’s something we may do. I used to assume we’d just put him in public school, and then I realized that it’s a choice we have to make. I think what I like most about it (in theory, because clearly I’m experience-less) is is either the time it gives you to live and grow together as a family because they’re not gone all day, or the way they can learn deeply and more naturally.

  593. emily

    I have been homeschooling (eclectic, but mostly unschooling) for 4 years (officially) now and wouldn’t have it any other way. We love the flexibility. We have more freedom with our schedule than the people I know that are in school. It really works for our family.

  596. Joni

    Would love to win these fabulous prizes. My favorite thing about homeschooling is living life with my kids…especially through great books.

  597. Karen

    I enjoy being able to incorporate learning opportunities into our everyday work…math while we’re cooking, colors while we sort laundry, manners as we interact with each other.

  600. Joanna DeWolf

    I love being able to see my kids at their best in a day. I love being a part of ah-ha! moments. I love learning right along with them.

  601. Blayne

    I think the best thing about homeschooling is the familial bonds its builds. I do not homeschool yet, but I hope to in the future. I will absolutely be homeschooling preschool through kindergarten.

  603. Toni Turbeville

    The best thing about homeschooling? Knowing what my child is learning everyday and who he’s learning it from (us!). If he displays behavior we don’t approve of, we know exactly where to look!!

  605. Julie S in VA

    We’re just starting to homeschool for preschool, but what I love best is interweaving our “lessons” with all the activities of our daily lives. From our bedtime stories, to our field trips, to what we make for dinner – it can all be tied in with whatever our primary subject is. That gives us a million little ways each day to learn, without any of it being overly calculated or boring.

  606. Sara

    We are just at the beginning stages of “official” homeschooling, though my son is in preschool a few mornings a week. What I love about watching him learn at home are his moments of delight at a new realization, such as learning subtraction by removing vehicles from his lineup of (far too many) Thomas the Tank engines!

  611. jackie sheridan

    We dont home-school yet, but when our 4 month old is old enough, we plan on doing it. I look forward to teaching him about god, instead of evolution and all the other lies they teach you in public school.

  614. Deshia

    The best part of homeschooling is being able to see their relationship grow with God and each other!!

  616. elle pukalo

    I’m done homeschooling but grandchildren are coming up. The family needs to stick together all day!

  617. Cara

    My sons attend preschool part-time, but then I use the other time during the week to homeschool. What I love is being able to create learning moments in the most ordinary of circumstances. Nearly everything you do on a day-to-day basis can be turned into learning if you try!

  619. Katie

    I just love being able to be with my family and nurture and educate my son in the way I feel best for him. I was a teacher before becoming a mom, so I enjoy using those same skills on a child that I love more than any other student before!

  620. Rachel M.

    My daughter is just 14 months old. What I enjoy about homeschooling at this point is knowing that we will be homeschooling, educating myself on the overwhelming options of resources and methods and preparing for that time. I can’t wait!

  623. Casey M

    Well, actually, I’m a part-time public school teacher, but I am seriously considering homeschooling my second grade daughter next year, for a variety of reasons. What excites me the most about that thought is being able to follow her interests while giving her what she needs, at a pace that she can manage, not what the state dictates. Depth of understanding, not shallow breadth, is what excites me about homeschooling.

  624. Katie

    I just subscribed to your blog through email. I’m thankful to learn more about homeschooling through your site!

  627. Kelsi Rea

    My absolute favorite things about homeschooling is the relationship I’m developing with my kids. I know what they can do, what level they’re at, and what they need. I wouldn’t trade it for anything!

  630. Amanda G.

    I had been thinking about educating my children at home for quite a while—before I was even married, but because of different circumstances, I enrolled my six year old in a public kindergarten last fall. But, I don’t believe that a child’s education ends when they leave their classrooms. I believe that it is the Mother’s job-the parents’ job- to nurture their childrens’ curiousity, to provide the resources for them to learn and discover. Because of the nature of a classroom, children are not able to go further in their learning when their interest in a subject is sparked. It is when they come home that parents should take that interest and give them the help and support that they need to really dig into a subject and ACTIVELY learn about something. When my six year old was into bugs about a year ago, we not only checked out every book in the library about bugs, we went to a museum that had a special bug exhibit, and we spent time at a local park and photographed cool bugs that we later identified together. I want my children to have a wide variety of interests. I also want them to know that they can bring those same interests home and that I will help them to discover more about them and that they will WANT to do the work to figure things out because it’s REALLY FUN.

  635. Joy L

    I don’t homeschool yet, but I am planning to begin shortly, as my daughter approaches preschool age. She absolutely loves books and words, but I am excited to open her eyes more to the worlds of math, science, etc.

  636. Felicity

    I have subscribed! I am new to homeschooling in many ways, as I have never actively pursued it until now. However, even though my stepchild of 8 goes to public school, I have always found it important to supplement her education at home and in the world at large. There are moments ripe with the desire to learn… how can we pass them up!? If she asks about the cosmos on the way to public school, she’ll get an impromptu lesson, which will teach her and stay with her better because it was taught in a moment of wondering and asking. I have just had a child of my own, and homeschooling has already begun even before the age of 1. Not active lessons with lesson plans. But responding to my child’s curiosity, and looking for those moments “ripe” with learning. I will forever be an advocate of homeschooling!

  640. daffodil lane

    I have blogged about this! (Actually, days ago I blogged when I discovered the new site!) And, updated today with links to the contest.
    Good luck with your endeavors!

  641. Dawn

    I don’t homeschool yet, but I love the idea of being able to show my daughter the world and to share that experience and learning with her.

  643. Michele Kendzie

    What I enjoy most about homeschooling is being with my kids so much. I would hardly have time to enjoy them if they were at school most of the time and when we were together we’d be rushing to get to school, working on homework, or having to get to bed early because there’s school tomorrow. I’m thoroughly enjoying this brief time living with my kids.

  644. Heather

    I have a 3 year old and a soon to be 2 year old and I really want to homeschool them. I am really enjoying teaching my boys and seeing them learn. I would love to win! Thanks, Heather

  645. Katie

    My daughter is too young for homeschooling still, but we will be homeschooling for pre-school and kindergarten (at least)! I think the best thing about homeschooling is the wide variety of adventures you can go on and the time not wasted while the teacher is doing “crowd control.”

  647. Katy from Albuquerque

    I am just at the beginning stages of homeschooling and can’t wait to learn more as your new site grows! My daughter is 4 and my son is 17 months and I am so excited about learning along side of them. Having been a K and 1st grade teacher, I love the “ah-ha” moments that kids have and I love having them too! I can’t wait to take my kids “on the road” to show them what we’ve been learning about – be it presidential libraries, field trips to factories, or the Nat’l Parks. We’re already beginning to plan out our garden and plan to start our own bee hive this spring! Life is full of opportunity and I don’t want to miss a single moment with my kids!!

  648. Julie Ricker

    I enjoy the fact that I get to be the one to witness all of my kids “firsts” and all their joys and triumphs. What a great priveledge to be the one who taught them to read.

  651. Debra

    after a particularly trying wintry week at home, this is a good question to make me reflect!! i can’t imagine missing all of the opportunities to connect with my children, to watch my children connect, to be a part of their experiencing the world – having this time together to live our lives (and OUTSIDE as much as possible) is the best part about having them at home instead of at school.

    thank you! this is an amazing give-away!

  653. Mary Beth

    My daughters are still preschool age but it has been a joy to teach them through countless everyday, ordinary experiences and watch them grow and learn. I like the level of parental involvement in education that homeschooling provides.

  654. Sarah S.

    The thing I enjoy the most about homeschooling is seeing how secure they are in our family. How helpful they are with things around the house because they completely understand that things need to be done. We are in sync, have a great bond and connection daily and I get to know everything that they are learning about and give them freedom to choose new things they want to learn as well. How exciting!

  655. Myrrh C.

    Besides being with my children, the best thing about homeschooling is learning right alongside them. I’m getting the classical education I never had.

  658. Abigail Gunter

    While I do not have any kids school age yet, I love watching my 3 1/2 yr. old and 22 month old see the world come alive. I love to watch them make connections to the things I have been teaching them.

  660. Karen

    Okay first of all, I just came across SimpleMom.net today for the first time ever! How have I lived without you!!!

    I love the flexibility homeschooling gives our family, and the individual attention my children will receive as they are educated, something lacking with a 1 to 30 average ratio.

  666. Kimberley

    The opportunity to watch my kids learn and grow, and be a part of that proccess is what has attracted me most to homeschooling

  668. Hannah

    What I enjoy most … is a three-way tie between reading great books together, not being in a hurry all the time, and all the connections that lead to one another.

  673. Monica

    I LOVE the time that I get to be with my children. I LOVE watching every stage of their growth. At ages 9 and 6, I don’t want to miss a moment of capturing their hearts for God, home and family!

  677. erica

    I don’t exactly homeschool yet (my daughter is 18months old) however I got to stay home with her until she was 17 months and now Daddy gets to stay home with her…we are providing in home care. The best part…we get to witness all of her awesome development and exploration. I love it!

  678. Aimee

    My favorite thing about homeschooling is having my kids home and making my own schedule. I taught school for several years before my kids were born and I hated having to get up that early and be functional!

  680. Evan Brammer | Losing the World

    I am a high school teacher, yet I thoroughly disagree with the way our educational system is set up today. I prefer my own kids to learn in a classical way and try to incorporate that into my own classroom as often as possible.

    The thing I love the most about homeschooling is that my kids can go at their own pace in learning and are able to delve deeper into the things that really excite them.

  683. Helen

    I love that our family can sleep in and snuggle on those days when you just want to sleep in and snuggle. And when we finally do roll out of bed, unburdened by the clock telling us class is starting or a bus is coming, we can each delve into what is meaningful and tied to each of our interests.

  689. Delben

    What I love about homeschooling is learning with my kids, seeing them grow and not being in thr rush that everyone around me seems to be in. A more simpler way.
    Love it.

  690. Christine

    I love a lot of things about homeschooling, so this is a tough one. But, if I had to pick I would say that I love to see my children enjoying their childhood on their own terms, without continually adult orchestrated experiences. I love to see the spontaneous games they make up on winter days when we’re snowed in. They are growing up with a sense that they have so many possibilities and opportunities before them. Although we don’t always have the money that I would like to have to make some of their wishes a reality. I really feel they are learning to be creative and resourceful with what they have in their lives.

    Thanks for this giveaway, I just found your site and network of blogs. So thrilled!

  691. Iryna

    We are in a preschool age, but the most interesting things about homeschooling in perspective for us is the flexibility of it, ability of having the best educational program tailored to the interests and personality of my child.

  695. Shannon

    What do I love the most about homeschooling? I’d have to say it’s the fact that we “learn through living.” Sometimes it feels like we’re on a permanent field trip. 🙂

    Thanks for an amazing site/resource.

  697. Leigh

    What a great giveaway! And I’m so excited that Simple Living has started Simple Homeschool!!!

    I love to be the one who gets to see my sons figure something out/learn something… I love watching the light go on in their heads!

  699. Melanie

    I am a music teacher and love seeing kids faces when something ‘clicks’. My little guy (18 months) is too young to home school right now, but I will most enjoy watching him learn and pick things up.

  700. Jenn @ Beautiful Calling

    I’ve just started with my three year old in January. It is both fun and frustrating but I know it will be rewarding. I love knowing that we are influencing her education from a Christian perspective because I am pretty concerned about the public schools in our area.

    I also love that she dons her tiny apron and we learn together while making meals, baking and sorting laundry.

    Life lessons are precious and priceless!!

  703. Candace

    oops forgot my answer. I love homeschooling because I am seeing my children grow, learn and play right before my very eyes. There is nothing quite like hearing them sound out that first word for the first time. 🙂 Love it!!

  705. la-la-lisa

    Oh and I never asnwered the question in my previous post — but I did subscribe — Oh I’m so confusing! I actually co-school at this point. What I love about it is that my son gets to endlessly explore. There are no time limits, worksheets, etc. I also love how I actually learn things too.

  706. shelly

    Wow! I don’t want to miss out on such a great giveaway!! What I love most about homeschooling is just simply being the one to be with them every day.

  711. Kevver

    I love reading aloud to my children the best. We start each day with a song, a prayer, then a chapter or 2 from a wonderful book. I wouldn’t miss this for the world.

  713. Amy

    Hi there,

    I’m not actually homeschooling…yet. Still wondering if I could do it and if my child will be better off for it. I’ve got a lot of work to do regarding this, but your book sounds like something I’d really like to read. Thanks for the giveaway!

  714. Darl

    We do not home school, but we heavily enrich all of lives by doing activities together as a family. I love the freedom to choose what we would like to focus on and the ability to individualize to meet the needs of each person.

  716. Barb

    I enjoy teaching my kids – seeing them learn and enjoy what they learn. I enjoy seeing them play together, getting up late, reading in our jammies, long lunches, reading on the couch together…

  719. Aimee

    I am thrilled about Simple Media! All of it! I just started homeschooling my 4th grader this past January. We are really just trying to figure it out. I have curriculum that we work through but I am concerned that just isnt right…. Anyone else feel like this when they started?

    I am so happy about Simple Homeschool, I am sure that there will be lots of info for me to feel better about what I do.

    The best part about homeschooling for me so far, and its completely selfish, is that my daughter is 9 and beginning to really grow-up. And I love that we get to reconnect and nurture our mother-daughter relationship before she is really grown-up.

    Looking forward to see whats coming,
    Aimee

  720. Marci

    This would be wonderful to win! The best thing about homeschooling is learning how to teach yourself. Kids learn how to be self-motivated and independent, a skill for life. I love the freedom to learn and also the skills and self-discipline that it teaches.

  721. Alisha

    My son will be starting school next year. I am on the fence about homeschooling since he is an only child. Maybe this items would help me make those decisions!

  723. Jeannie

    What fabulous prizes! This giveaway is awesome.

    My daughter is only 3, but she started sounding out words a few months ago because of all the reading we do together, so what I love most about homeschooling is being totally blown away by what she’s capable of. She knocks my socks off all the time!

  725. Kristin

    There are 2 things I love most about homeschooling: watching my son enjoy learning/growing at his own pace …and not having to get up early to catch the bus!

  729. Quinn Byrnes

    What a great giveaway. I am not a full time homeschooler. I just supplement alot as we travel frequently and sometimes I don’t think my kids get all they need to get with school. But what I love about things we do at home is watching a light come on while we are reading a book. My son will say, “hey that is like blah blah blah.” And he is absolutely right and then he wants to delve deeper into that topic. It is amazing.

  730. Jennifer

    My version of homeschooling is different – I have a 5-year-old, a 2-year-old, and a baby on the way. I plan field trips and activities for our kids, but I send my 5-year-old to school. She goes to a small private, faith-based school that practices continuous progress, multiage groupings. It is a “Blue Ribbon School of Excellence,” which recognizes the top half of a percent of schools nationally — and I am in regular communication with her teachers about my child’s progress, working on skills at home, and volunteering one day a week in her classroom. I still feel like I am “homeschooling” because I am so involved in my daughter’s education and am making the choices that I feel suit her best, yet I have the advantages of not having to choose or purchase curriculum, the years of experience and wisdom of the two teachers and the principal, the technology available in the school, the “special” classes all provided for her, and the social interaction with her peers and with students of other ages. If I had not found this amazing school, I think I would be a more “traditional” homeschool parent!

  731. Corene

    I don’t homeschool persay, though I am home with my 3-year-old, and try to incorporate unschooling projects, etc with my older children when school is out. I enjoy watching my kids’ skills develop, esp. in art, music and cooking.

  733. Shanna

    I love homeschooling my kids for many reasons… one major reason is they are not up until late at night doing homework. they still have time to be kids. 🙂

  735. Cynthia

    I most enjoy the way learning is a joy rather than a chore. It is organic, living, one question leading to the next, rather than the formulaic teaching I remember from my days in public school.

  737. Kathleen Loughran

    I plan on homeschooling because I have such little faith in the Chicago Public School system. I am also interested in the individual attention my son will receive as well as to explore his strength and interests. I also think where he needs extra help that I will be able to provide that so he excels. Growing up I knew a few children that were home-schooled and each of them were well beyond their peers and enjoyed learning.

    Thanks for this opportunity.

  738. Kathy

    What I enjoy most about homeschooling is having a hand in what my children are learning and knowing exactly what that is. I love being responsible for that, though it can be quite daunting sometimes!

  740. Mary-Sue

    I just love BEing with mykids and seeing them grow and learn and blossom. There’s none of that awkwardness between what’s cool at school and what’s okay at home… they’re just themselves all the time without a thought to who they SHOULD be.

  744. Kellye

    I am currently preparing to homeschool my children beginning in the fall. I am so thrilled and inspired to find moms who feel the same way I do and that I can learn from and look to in my journey! Thank you for what you do!!!

  746. Catharine

    I am so excited about your new group of blogs! I don’t homeschool (yet) but my husband and I have been giving it serious consideration. I guess I am still at the research stage. I guess that is why I am so excited about having found your blog!
    Thanks,
    Catharine

  747. Ann

    I love learning along side my kids. My “education” glossed over a lot of interesting things, so I love that we get to go more in depth. Thanks for the giveaway!

  749. Sara

    What I love most about homeschooling is the fact that I get to share each new discovery my children make. From the first step to the first book and everything they learn and teach me in the process, I get to be there.

  750. Stephanie

    I’d love to win! What i love most about homeschool is, i think, relationships. I have seven children from 14 down to one, and we’ve homeschooled the whole time. I don’t think my children would be such a close knit bunch if we didn’t homeschool. I think the home socialization is better than institutional – and my children are outgoing and friendly and can talk to adults as well as little children and they all love babies – but they are best friends, a tribe, and we explore the world together!

  751. Erin L

    I love seeing them conquer a new task or accomplish something and know that we went through the process together.

  757. Patty Wanta

    I most enjoy seeing my child get excited when he grasps something new or is absorbed in learning and thinks it’s fun.

  761. Betsy Negley

    What I enjoy most about homeschooling (although we only do it part-time) is seeing one of my children “get” something they have been struggling with. That look of dawning comprehension is just amazing!

  763. sarah

    What I love most about homeschooling is being there to witness my kids learn something new and actually begin to understand a new concept before my eyes! It’s also just fun to play all day with some crazy kids 🙂

  765. Valerie

    Homeschooling is something I’ve wanted to do, but my family is not quite there yet. My daughter is currently in a Montessori school right now, which is working well for her right now. But I want our family to be learning all the time, and would love ideas for activities during the summer. I love being able to follow my child’s interests, wherever that may lead.

  766. Tosca

    I love the flexibility of our days, reading in pajamas, math through baking. And I love watching the boys grow together.

  768. Ellen

    I love watching my children learn and develop each day and knowing that I am the primary witness to their growth. I also love carrying on the tradition of home-based learning… my mother taught us at home as well.

  774. meg O

    That’s a tough question – it’s really a whole lifestyle to love and embrace. I guess if I had to choose it would be that I get the privilege of knowing my kids best with all of us learning and growing as we go! Thanks for the lovely giveaway!

  776. Kristi

    i love that homeschooling begins the day you bring home your child from the hospital and your classroom is your limitless imagination.

  778. Cindy Fox

    I mostly enjoy the chance to be a part of what God is doing in my children’s lives. How exciting to see Him shape them and provide just the right opportunities and teaching moments for them! It’s a comfort to know that we can rest in His plan. Thank you!

  779. Angela

    I am soooo excited about this blog! I am a newish mom (my daughter is 15 months old) but I have known I wanted to homeschool someday for about ten years. So while I am not “officially” homeschooling yet, I am so excited to learn more from those who are homeschooling already!! 🙂 I enjoy the idea of discipling my children to walk in Christ’s ways and helping them learn what they are gifted and have the best abilities for. I’m really looking forward to what the future will bring in our lives!

  781. Megan

    Well since my daughter is only 3 we really havent started any schooling with her. We read A LOT though and reading new stories and talking about them is one our favorite things to do right now.

  785. Linds

    We are just starting our homeschool journey. I love the flexibility of homeschooling, using things and methods that will get my kids excited about learning and me excited to teach them.
    Thanks for a fabulous giveaway!

  788. JenT

    My kids are still pre-school aged, but I am considering homeschooling, especially because we live abroad. We are also thinking of “part-time” schooling, which is a possibility here for foreign kids in primary school (they go to certain classes at school, but are exempt from others). I’m looking forward to seeing the ideas and thoughts the site offers!

  789. Vanessa

    I am not homeschooling yet, since my little on is only 6 months, but I am in grad school for elementary education. I am excited to apply the tools I have learned about for the classroom into my home. I am excited to adapt lessons to fit my little one’s learning styles and her individual needs and interests.

  790. Nannette

    My favorite thing about homeschooling is the ways we search for the answers to his questions about everything! We look for the answers together and sometimes its just a trip to the library and sometimes its a trip to another state or to grandma’s house!

  792. sarah

    I have only made the commitment to homeschool, but I love the fact that I get to see my children. They aren’t going to someone else with other someone elses to be known and nurtured and educated. We can concentrate on who they were made to be.

  794. Laura Holte

    We love homeschooling for the flexibility and the ability to discover our childhood and theirs together.

  795. Mia

    I lOvE everything! I love setting the schedule, I love making her science lesson how yeast makes our homemade bread rise. I LOVE watching her explore outside and to watch her teach her little siblings what she knows. I LOVE how she remembers more about the lessons than I do, I LOVE how while im sitting directing her, she is teaching me! I LOVE HOMESCHOOLING!!!!!

  796. Celeste

    What I love about homeschooling is that I get to know my children by spending time with them. I love to see the little ones learning right along with the big kids and doing fun projects together. I love that my children and most homeschool kids I know really understand how to interact with all age levels. I love it when we have a pajama day and drink hot cocoa while snuggled up with a great book!

  801. Jenny

    Today what I love about homeschooling is that it’s almost over and tomorrow I get to try and be a better me to make them a better them!

  803. Mab

    I love being a part of making learning possible and even fun for my children. I really enjoy going back to the subjects that I didn’t like or didn’t do well and finally learning them- this is especially true with science.

  805. Janine

    Homeschooling is a way of life that has long impacted me – from my own days of high school & the friends made through the homeschool community around me to the present when child #4 is learning to love reading. Through it all the flexibility of changing things (from day to day if need be) has been one of the biggest blessings in making a smoother, more ‘real life’ experience for each of us!

  807. connie

    I love that homeschooling provides flexibility for all…even when the teacher is undergoing chemotherapy, the kids can still learn 🙂 Thanks for the giveaways! ~C

  808. Karin Katherine

    Homeschooling allows my family to spend quality time together. It allows my husband to spend time with his children despite an nontraditional work schedule. I enjoy teaching my children and being there EACH and EVERY moment the light bulb goes off for them in some area of their studies. I remember crying when they read their first words. I cannot imagine missing that.

  809. Jessica

    I love the chunks of time it gives us to spend together, the way we can do school and still have lots of time for them to play freely, and the flexibility it gives our daily/yearly schedule.

  812. Amy

    I love homeschooling because it allows my boys to have plenty of free time to play and explore whatever they’re interested in. I also feel like I get them for the best parts of their day.

  813. Carole

    Please enter me!

    My favorite part of home schooling is the excitement of learning, of being a part of that process with my boys, and being here for the ‘aha’ moments and more. It’s a lot of work, but it’s worth it.

  815. Mrs. H

    I don’t homeschool, but my best friend does, and what I admire about homeschooling is the way that she can customize her curriculum to fit her child’s interests and strengths. Great prizes, though, if you’d consider giving them to a homeschool-supporter.

  818. Katie

    What I love most right now is that families get to choose to homeschool. I don’t want to let important decisions be the property of someone else other than my family.

  820. Amy

    I love so much about homeschooling, but I think my favorite is being there for those “ah-ha!” moments when the lightbulb goes on over the kids heads. 🙂

  822. Kate

    I don’t actually homeschool, but with a toddler and an infant I am hoping to get some good ideas of activities to do with them.

  824. LaToya

    I love spending the time with my boys the most. I have a long list of reasons to homeschool: including my oldests SPD, my distaste of the public school system, etc.

    I love being there for those moments of learning!

  826. Kirstin

    I love being there for the light bulb moments with my children, the relationships they are developing, and tailoring their curriculum to the individual needs and strengths.

  828. Linda

    What I love most about homeschooling is watching my children become the unique people God has called them to be, and being their cheerleader in the process.

  829. Julie

    This is a selfish reason why I love homeschooling – I get to learn about things the way I wish I had the first time!!!

  831. Carra

    With a preschooler, it’s an amazing time for watching her figure stuff out (as it really has been since the day she was born). I can’t imagine letting someone else have the pleasure of witnessing all those “Aha! Moments”

  832. wendy

    the best thing about homeschooling… well, there are so many best things… watching them become their own people, free from pressure; the flexibility to drop everything and move halfway across the world for a few years; the unique relationships that develop just because I’m with them most of the time…

  839. Sherri Ireson

    I “homeschool” my 25 kids (I really do love them all and many have special needs) and often find my best resources on homeschooling sites. Although I am not fortunate enough to stay at home, I try very hard to make my class fun and loving! Thanks for this awesome blog!

  844. Tori

    We don’t homeschool, but I have been intrigued by it, wondering how it works and if I would be capable of pulling it off. Then my eight-year old comes home and the homework battle begins. I have to wonder if there is an easier way for him to learn and for me to teach so he can understand and not hit that instant frustration mark whenever Math or Spelling is brought to the table.

  846. Stacy

    I’m not sure why God has called me to homeschool my kids, but He has and His purpose is greater than my comfort. I’m not fond of homeschooling only because I’m not gifted in the teacher catagory. I do love getting to know my kids better and spend time with them instead of shipping them off to school for 8 hours a day. And I also like being in control of what they learn.

  849. Andrea

    As a student who graduated from a 12 year homeschooling experience looking toward homeschooling my own children (we are still in the preschool years), I find the richness of each day to be my favorite aspect of homeschooling.

  850. Anita

    There are so many things I enjoy about homeschooling my children, but one of the best is how much I learn each day, whether it’s something in an actual academic lesson, or a new insight from one of them, or an attitude adjustment I need to make, or a spiritual lesson to learn. Having my children at home with me allows me to see just what interesting people they are!

  852. Stacey

    I don’t currently homeschool – my daughter is 1-1/2 and I work full-time outside the home. I don’t know what our future may hold, though, so I try to stay informed on all various options. I’m looking forward to learning more about homeschooling theory and applications here. Thank you so much for a great giveaway!

  854. Becky

    I am currently home pre-schooling with my toddler and baby. I am trying to gather resources and am so excited about being the first in my family to homeschool! Thanks so much for the giveaway.

  855. Natalie

    I do not homeschool (yet) because my little girl is not old enough. I am, however, always looking for inspiration from those who currently homeschool. This blog will be great for me.

  857. Mel

    My kids are little (1.5 and 3) and we love reading together. The boys bring my books, sit on my lap and soak it all up. It is the time together and watching them grow that I really love.

  859. Sarah

    I have two young children who are not yet school-aged. The oldest one is only a couple years away from kindergarten though, and I am VERY interested in finding out more about homeschooling. In all honesty, it seems SUPER overwhelming. I am looking forward to being educated on the simple way to do it through the posts on this site!

  862. Courtney

    I love the flexibility to follow my son’s interests and abilities… and I love how excited he gets about history. He wouldn’t have had the opportunity to delve into ancient civilizations like he has if here were still in public school.

  863. Kelly

    What I enjoy most is the flexibility. I love the days where a 10 minute lesson takes off becoming the focus of the day or a week. As a former teacher, I know that does not happen in a classroom where even the most vibrant activities are trapped by arbitrary bells.

  864. jennifer phillips

    I LOVE being with my kids all day long! I love knowing what they are learning (and not learning)!! So glad I am on this journey WITH them!

  865. Trisha Taussig

    LOVE THIS SITE!!!! Such great encouragement for homeschool mamas, AND in such a beautiful format. I feel so hip!! Thanks!

  866. Carrie S.

    My favorite thing about homeschooling? Being able to focus on exactly what is interesting my child at any particular time. At 2 years old, she’s loving butterflies (life cycle!), shells (shapes, colors, ocean life), birds (identification, sounds, migration patterns), and the alphabet (and starting to read)… We’re having a great time over here!
    .-= Carrie S.’s last blog: Morning Craft Time =-.

  867. Laurel Coombs

    I love homeschooling b/c it means I don’t have to miss a moment of my kids growing up!!! And I get to see the “lightbulb” moments when they get the new concept.

  870. Sarah Terrell

    I am so excited about this site! As a new homeschooling mom I am trying to sift through all kinds of ideas and materials to provide a nurturing education for my kids. It can get overwhelming, so I truly appreciate this place of simplicity. Thank you!!!

  873. Jenny Rebecca

    My daughter isn’t old enough for homeschooling yet, but what I anticipate loving the most is being able to delve into a subject or project deeper than an ordinary school setting might allow.

  875. Michele

    My son is 3 1/2 so we’re a little early to be technically homeschooling, but I love not sending him off to preschool but enjoying the time we have together each day. We can add or subtract things quite easily and I love that we’re able to follow our interests.

  879. Libby H

    I don’t homeschool yet (ds in only 1) but plan to.

    PS: Susan Bauer was one of my English professors!

  884. grace

    I like being with my children all day and getting the pleasure of seeing them learn, get excited about something new, and growing each day. It is a real gift to experience that each day plus all the hugs are nice too!

  886. Mae

    I do not currently homeschool but am looking into the option – gathering information, weighing options. I think I would enjoy the connectedness w/ my kids and the opportunity to participate more fully in their learning. Plus, I wouldn’t mind staying in my pjs some days too! 😉

  889. Barb @ The Forever Neighbor

    I love homeschooling! This is my first year and my children are five years old and nine years old. I love being with my children, hearing their laughter, and being right there with them when they have just accomplished something that was giving them trouble. I believe it is a true blessing to homeschool!

  890. Kathy

    This is our third year of homeschooling our three kids and we love it. It is so great being able to spend so much time together and really stay close as a family.

  894. jaime

    My son is still very young (17 months) but as I contemplate homeschooling him, the thing I look forward to most is being able to see him grow as a person and explore new things. I am also interested in homeschooling because I want the chance to see him grow and learn in a nurturing environment where I can direct the lessons to his interests.

  896. Julie

    What I enjoy most about homeschooling is all the time together. Whether it is a farm we are visiting or baking together; I get to show them the world and see them discover it.

  899. becca

    What I love aobut homeschool is the freedom! I can focus on my son’s strengths and weaknesses is a way that no contemporary classroom can. Plus, when you homeschool, learning becomes a way of life and not just something you do in a building. If I can encourage my son to ponder questions, search for answers and solutions, and have a true passion for this world and all that’s in it I will have counted homeschooling a success. I also love how homeschooling allows teaching things I hated learning when I was a child in fun, creative, laughter-filled ways!

  900. Natilie

    I love homeschooling my 9 year old daughter, Emma because I get to see her empower herself through discovery, boundary-jumping and risk-taking. And through her process I see the real her, the lovely person she becomes every day, unencumbered with paralyzing doubt or fear.

  901. Jaclyn Heim

    Hi,
    I love the fact that parents are in charge of their child’s education. That is probably my favorite thing about homeschooling.
    Jackie

  902. Donna

    There is so, so much I love about homeschooling but what I love most about it is just the opportunity to spend so much time with my boys. I truly consider myself privileged to be able to be around my boys all day,talking together, learning together, having fun together, and loving eachother. They are such wonderful, unique human beings and getting to know them the way I am able to is awesome! This time with them is so precious!

  905. Lysa

    What do you enjoy most about homeschooling?

    I love that I know my children better. When they were gone all day at school and I had to pry information out of them. I feel that I am better equipped to love, serve and guide them.

  912. Bridget Stevens

    I love it that homeschooling means my kids get so much built in bonding time together. the are really the best of buds and miss each other so much when they are separate. all thier creative play does wonders for building their language skills and imagination. its really fun to watch and be a part of.

  914. Lizzy

    I love that my children are best friends with EACH OTHER. I don’t think this would be as true if they were apart from each other all day.

  916. Jessica K

    i like being able to be with my kids each day, instead of sending them into the great beyond with no idea what they’re learning from who!

  918. Lauren

    Just getting started in our homeschooling life, but already I’m loving the flexibility I have to follow God’s leading for our family right now– for this season in our family life, but also listening throughout each day as He pours into me and my children.

  920. Hannah

    I love homeschooling most when my kids say something ridiculously smart and funny that makes me choke with laughter. Those moments are all mine.

  921. Hannah

    I also subscribed to your blog. But I just bought your book on Amazon about 20 minutes ago so I don’t need to win it. I am very excited to have it come.

  922. Katie Gardner

    I love homeschooling because it makes every day a “school” day and every outing a “field trip” and every moment a learning opportunity.

  923. Mendy

    I love the fact that I am going to be in charge of what my child learns and at what pace. Also that it will be christian-based and that don’t have to go like a million days a year!

  925. mimi

    i love following my children’s lead, they are so excited about learning, and often don’t even realize they are learning since they are genuinely interested!

  927. Grace

    School time in the morning is my favorite time of day! I love the focused time with my children and the joy of seeing them grasp new ideas.

  931. Linn

    What I like most about homeschooling is that we do what we want to do when we want to do it! We learn from whatever we happen to be doing and enjoy being together while doing it. What a great prize package! I’m excited to see where this site goes…

  935. Beckie Daley

    I have yet to start homeschooling, and am still debating which direction we will go. If I do homeschool, I think I would love the flexibility and the ability to teach Godly values to my kids.

  937. Kat

    I love that my daughter will not be taught in a way that maximizes her ability to conform and be controlled.

  939. Emma

    I adore that every moment is a teachable moment. I have a masters degree in education and as much as I adored being in my classroom, I cannot tear myself away from helping my own children in their journey to learn. I am over the moon each time my early reader decodes a new word & makes meaning from text. I love when both children make connections about the field trips we take, the music they hear, the experiences we have together (at the national gallery of art, natural history museum, performances at the wolftrap national park’s childrens theater in the woods) to other things we learn. It’s really cool when they see stevesongs on tv& connect that they’ve seen him & ask when we can do that again; even cooler when they (even a 4 year old) recalls the life cycle of a frog as learned from a puppet show more than 6 months ago. Hands on learning, nature walks, applying all of the best practices of teaching to my own children. But just as importantly is being able to share with other moms, as they are amazing resources from which I can add to my bag of tricks – from behavior management (power struggles) to art and tactile activities – to build upon the multiple intelligences of our children, which vary from our strengths as teachers.

  941. christina

    Wow! What a giveaway!

    I love to homeschool for several reasons. I am blessed to be with my kids all day ( though sometimes hard), I get to learn WITH them, I am able to choose the peers they around, I can teach them God’s Truth and warn them of the false ways, I like to see the gleam in their eyes when they finally get something they have struggled to understand, and most of all, I am able to keep Christ at the top of all things, showing and teaching them our life is about Christ, not about us.
    .-= christina ‘s last blog: "The Move"…… Lesson Learned =-.

  942. Daniela

    only one reason? there are so many… 🙂
    i think what i love most is to spend each day learning and living together with my kids.

  947. Blessed Mom

    I’m actually not an offical homeschooler yet, my daughter is 3, but I love that parents control what is taught and can tailor school to the child’s needs or interest.

  950. Lindsay

    Thank you so much for the great information and giveaways. I heard about your site through Jena B., my first homeschool mentor and the one who got me excited about it. My favorite thing about homeschooling my 3 boys is that it is NEVER, EVER boring!!!!

  951. Jenna

    I don’t homeschool yet, but i am so looking forward to it! To be able to continue to spend my days with my little ones is such a joy. I can’t wait to read all the articles here as I’m sure there will be a wealth of great informantion!

  953. Emily

    My son’s still too young for “formal” homeschooling. However, I love teaching him everyday and watching his face light up as he learns. That’s my favorite.

  954. Rebeccah

    My oldest is 19 months, but already she’s learning so much! It’s so fun to watch her learn through our day to day interactions – reading, playing, working, cleaning – and to get her excited about that now, while she’s still young. And it’s amazing to see her pick up on things I didn’t even take the time to “teach” her, like the parts of her face or where certain things go or what certain things do!

  957. mdvlist

    I don’t homeschool yet, my children are too young; nevertheless, I *imagine* that what I would enjoy most would be something that I already enjoy: knowing where their ideas come from and watching them try those ideas out in different ways.

  958. kara f.

    ahhh. . .what i love about h.schooling. (: I am sooooo thankful for the time spent w. all 4 of my kiddos— they are growing up fast! the time w. them is fleeting. . .(i have 2 teenagers now!). . .and to have so much daily time w. them is something i will treasure forever. grateful to be in their world so much.

  962. Winning Readings

    I love SEEING the learning happen! When my daughter catches on to something, it’s so rewarding. And I like planning and finding new ideas. What I don’t like is that THERE IS SO MUCH she could be learning, and I always feel like I’m missing something… 🙂

    janemaritz at yahoo dot com

  965. suzanne m.

    i like that homeschooling provides flexibility in our day to school at our leisure and to get out and do things as a family. i also love the personal attention i can give my kiddos.

  967. Rochelle

    I haven’t homeschooled yet as my kiddos are still wee tiny; I was homeschooled as a child though. I love the flexibility of how I learned. I loved being home with my mother, and when I begin to teach my own children I will love watching them learn. I think it so fascinating seeing people have those “aha!” moments. I will also love learning new things myself. Learning is so much fun!!

  972. Kristie A.

    I have just started homeschooling my three year old and I love seeing her excitment to learn new things.

  976. Leah

    Wowie, I would love to win this. My favorite part about homeschooling is seeing the lightbulbs go off when my children learn something new.

    Leah

  977. Rebekah

    We are not homeschooling yet but I hope to when our little one is old enough. I was homeschooled though, and I think my favorite part was all the things I learned naturally. Like how fractions work (because we made cookies with mom) or lots of different Science lessons. I also learned many things just from reading real books. I have taught elementary school and I was amazed at how many of my fourth and fifth grade students did not have many simple real world concepts for math down. (Like an 1/2 cup is bigger then a 1/3 of a cup).

  984. Amy

    I am a homeschool teacher! I teach ballet and tap for a homeschool coop in our town. I LOVE these people and their kids. I am so glad I can contribute to their excellent education in this way. Our school has developed a special program just for the homeschool community and we love it!

  992. Heather

    I have been very much enjoying SimpleMom, and look forward to Simple Homeschool, too! I intend to begin homeschooling my 3 1/2 year old son this year, and have been looking for great resources and support networks to be a part of. Hoping this will be one of them! Good luck in this new venture.

  997. Jane

    Lately my favorite part of the day is our morning Bible reading time. We read silently, yet we’re together in the same room. There is just something so peaceful about that time.

  998. Charity

    Being able to be home with my quadruplets has been a real blessing. I’ve watched them learn so much & been there every step of the way. I missed so much with my older son…precious moments!
    .-= Charity’s last blog: Ruthless Toothless! =-.

  1002. Megret

    I just enjoy being with my children so much! The times we spend together, even while schooling, is precious and unequaled.
    musesofmegret (at) gmail (dot) com

  1003. Tina

    Okay, I didn’t say why I love homeschooling, so I’ll say it here while I also say that I blogged about the giveaway – I don’t want to unfairly enter another comment! I love, love, love spending time with my kids. I can’t even imagine them being gone all day. I love being the one that chooses what they’ll learn when, love following their lead, love letting them be kids just one more day. It’s overwhelming and exhausting and draining, but it’s so completely worth it to me.

    And I blogged about your giveaway here: http://rutherfordhomeschool.blogspot.com/2010/02/great-new-homeschooling-site.html

    Thanks again!
    .-= Tina’s last blog: BOX DAY! =-.

  1004. Terese

    I can’t wait to start homeschooling when my kiddos are old enough. I’m excited about being able to customize their education to their particular interests, and being able to spend more time with them.