Why did I Choose to Homeschool? A Story of Surrender

There are a lot of reasons families choose to homeschool. Maybe you’ve heard some of them- flexible schedules, customized education, faith-based learning, more family time, fewer distractions, and a safer environment for kids to grow. Those reasons are all true for us, too.

But the journey that led us to homeschooling didn’t begin with a perfectly laid-out plan. It began with a dream. And that dream… wasn’t homeschooling. (Spoiler alert: It was my career.)

I was a thriving photographer- published, client-pleasing, and completely in love with the art. I poured my heart into my business because I was good at it. I could contribute to our family's income. I could travel. I could grow something of mine. We sent our two oldest to a private Christian school for a year, thinking we'd found the best of both worlds -an education that aligned with our values while I pursued my creative calling.

But something didn’t sit right.

I missed them more than I expected. I hated that the school day took the best hours of their energy and attention. And when they came home, the evenings felt rushed-homework, dinner, bedtime. I had so little of them left at the end of the day. I started asking hard questions. Why was I doing this? Who was I doing it for?

I realized the answer was "I." I loved photography. I was good at it. I could build something meaningful. I could contribute financially.

But when I shifted my mindset from me to them, everything changed. I started asking what was best for my children- not what was easiest, most impressive, or most comfortable for me. That clarity made the decision so simple.

It wasn’t about sacrificing my dreams. It was about redefining success. True love is sacrificial love. I enjoy photography, but I love my children so, so much more. Success isn't the impression I will leave on my clients; it is the impression I will leave on my children. Success isn't praise, pride, or anything that comes with it. Success, to me, is faith. Faith, family, and happiness.

Homeschooling has given me something I never expected: thousands of hours back with my kids and the opportunity to slow down. Time I didn’t know I was losing. Time to laugh in the mornings and to explore the world together. Time to read beautiful stories curled up on the couch. Time to talk about faith and life and character over lunch, not just during bedtime prayers when we’re all exhausted.

It’s also given my kids something irreplaceable: a tailored education that fits them. I get to teach to their strengths, support their struggles, and watch their little faces light up when they finally “get it.” I get to slow down when they need rest and speed up when they’re inspired. I get to know them, really know them, in a way I don’t think I could have if we were all just passing ships in the early morning and late evening.

And yes, my faith is a huge part of it. I don’t just want to talk about God on Sundays. I want to live for God daily, let His Word shape our conversations, our curriculum, our choices. Homeschooling lets me build a Christ-centered home where learning is soaked in truth and love.

So why did I choose to homeschool?

Because I want more than just some time with my kids. I want to be present, always. Because education isn’t one-size-fits-all, and I’ve seen firsthand the joy of learning that happens when it’s personal. Because my faith reminds me that motherhood is a calling, not a detour. Because this life is short, and I don’t want to miss the moments that matter most.

I still take pictures. I still love art. But now I see it as a gift, not my identity. My greatest legacy won’t be my portfolio. It’ll be the hearts and minds I helped shape around our dining room table.

If you’re wrestling with this decision too, I just want to say, it’s okay to change your mind. It’s okay to pivot. It’s okay to say, “I never thought I would do this."

Sometimes the most beautiful callings begin with surrender.