Welcome to Crafty Teacher Designs!
Starting a Faith-Filled Homeschool:
7 Things I Wish I Knew
When we first felt the tug to homeschool, I was both excited and overwhelmed. I wanted my children to learn well—but more than that, I wanted them to love Jesus and see Him in every part of life, not just in Sunday morning lessons. What I didn’t realize then is that homeschooling isn’t just about curriculum—it’s about discipleship, connection, and trusting God to fill in the gaps when we feel like we’re not enough.
So if you're standing at the starting line, unsure about what’s ahead, friend, you’re not alone. Here are seven things I wish someone had told me at the beginning of our faith-filled homeschool journey:
1. You Don’t Need All the Answers—You Just Need Obedience
You’ll never feel fully ready. But God equips those He calls. The Holy Spirit will guide your day, your curriculum choices, and even those unexpected interruptions that end up being the best learning moments. Proverbs 3:5 reminds us:
“Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.” (KJV)
2. Discipleship > Deadlines
Homeschooling is not public school at home. You are raising disciples, not just students. That means you can pause math to talk about character. You can bake bread and learn about Jesus as the Bread of Life. Every moment is an opportunity for discipleship.
3. Play IS Learning—Especially for Littles
If I could go back, I’d worry less about worksheets and more about wonder. Playing with blocks is math. Imaginary play is language development. Sorting laundry by color is a lesson. Let them learn through life, and you’ll be amazed at what sticks.
4. Multiple Ages CAN Learn Together
You don’t need separate curriculum for every child! Use unit studies or Bible-based themes that include everyone. Your older child can help your younger one. You can scale up or down by adding books, crafts, or copywork. Learning together fosters unity and gives everyone a role.
5. Curriculum is a Tool—Not a Master
It’s easy to think the “right” curriculum will fix everything. But truth is, no curriculum will meet every need. Be prayerful and flexible. Some years you’ll need structure. Other years, you’ll need grace. Let the curriculum serve your family—not the other way around.
6. Routine > Rigidity
Structure is helpful, but rigidity can steal joy. Aim for rhythm over a strict schedule. Morning devotions, snack and story time, outdoor play, and quiet reading can be your anchor points. Let peace, not panic, be the tone of your home.
7. You’re Not Alone—Lean Into Community
Whether it’s a homeschool co-op, a church group, or even an online friend, find others who get it. We were made for community, especially in seasons of sowing and growing. And yes—check out the Crafty Teacher Designs TPT store for Bible-based lessons to support your homeschool journey.
Bonus Wisdom: Development Comes in Seasons, Not Straight Lines
As long as your child is learning and growing in a way that aligns with their age and stage, you’re doing just fine. Not every 4-year-old will write their name or know all their letters at the same time—and they don’t need to. Focus on what’s developmentally appropriate using tools like the TN Early Learning Developmental Standards (TN-ELDS) and the CDC Milestone Checklist as gentle guides—not stress-inducing checklists.
💛 And don't forget: Find a co-op or playgroup—not just for your kids, but for you. You need friends to pray with, cry with, brainstorm snack ideas with, and laugh about those days where nothing goes to plan. We were never meant to do this alone.
💛 Final Thoughts:
Mama, you are doing Kingdom work. Don’t doubt that. Homeschooling isn't about perfection—it's about faithfulness. It’s messy, beautiful, holy work. And on the hard days, remember: you’re not alone, and God’s mercies are new every morning. (Lamentations 3:22–23, KJV)
