Thank you for being courageous! I chose to homeschool for the same reasons!! I never had kids in public school, but I WAS a public school teacher. I wanted to “change the system” for better as a teacher, but I realized God was calling me to just focus on my own children. Best decision I’ve made. ☺️ I look forward to your part 2!
Thank you so much for sharing and posting this video. I'm planning to put my notice in at work today and begin homeschooling my upcoming 3rd grade daughter starting in July. I'm super nervous, anxious & excited. Please send prayers my way today!
Alison Hall, May the Lord strengthen you and give you the wisdom in each step you have to take. I started homeschooling 2 years ago and I am so glad we followed what the Lord was calling us to do.
I pulled mine out middle of 3rd (she should have been 4th). We’ve slacked a lot. She’s refused a lot yet we’ve still gained a grade level in math. Don’t be nervous ☺️ we’re flying by the seat of our pants and she isn’t totally damaged yet. If anything her curiosity is coming back. Most days she refuses because she hates school but the days are lessening. Oh and check out Khan Academy. It was a lifesaver that first month or so. Still is! Emma loves it.
You were “that mom on TH-cam” for me. We began homeschooling because of the events of 2020, but God had been working on my heart through your videos many years beforehand. I just came across this today, and I wanted to thank you for showing me that I am more than capable to do this for my children. You are a light and a walking example to so many through this platform, probably many more than you realize. ❤️
I needed this video!! We are pulling our kindergarten student out as soon as he finishes out this school year (2 weeks left) and homeschooling him & our 4 year old because of the education system as a whole and they keep wanting to label my kindergarten student as having ADHD which I believe is way over diagnosed and medication is overly given to kids for this but what they really need is a simplified childhood and education! It's been on my heart since before I had children to homeschool. But I kept letting all the fears control my decisions. I am still afraid but I am finally at peace that this is what God wants me to do and He will guide me through this new journey! You're doing a fabulous job Momma!!! An inspiration to many!
Brianna Maddux I so agree!! ADHD is way over diagnosed and medication is not needed so young! Kids need to be kids and learn through play. And grow in their “sit down and listen” skills. It takes time :)
I also agree that ADHD is over diagnosed. I was diagnosed at age 7 and was put on medication because I had so much energy & it distracted the other children. Medication is NOT what high-energy/hyper children need; what they need is to have a flexible schedule that allows for many running around the room breaks & a parent/teacher that has patience. "ADHD"/hyper children simply don't fit in a school-shaped box - they need a different kind of environment to thrive.
My mother wanted to homeschool me because she knew all of these things, but couldn't because she was a single parent that had to go to work. I feel so grateful that my husband is so supportive of our choice to homeschool our daughter. I get to stay home with her & teach her the Christ-oriented, confidence-building and laid-back way that will best benefit her. Thank you, Jesus. ♥
New subscriber! I honestly don't know how anyone could disagree with the heart behind any of this. I hear a lot that about not over sheltering your kids. But I've honestly never heard "My mom spent too much time with, had too many conversations with me, or made too many memories with me." I have on the flip side seem many broken hearts that needed encouragement and support that a school wasn't able to give them. We have to remember, some of us live in areas with fantastic schools, and some of us do not. I was homeschooled my whole life, and because of family circumstances, my mom really wasn't very involved with me the way I needed her. I hope to give my girls not only an education, but a relationship and a confidence to tackle whatever they want.
Only 6 minutes in and I’m in tears ! I feel so lead to homeschool my children. My oldest is 4 and would be starting preschool in the fall and I have been feeling so heavily lately that public school is not for our family. Your words have confirmed what I have been praying about! Thank you for being obedient and speaking what the Holy Spirit has lead you to say!
i know this video is 4yrs old but i wanted to thank you for this video. when you were saying your REASONS for homeschooling, i literally cried. you said EVERYTHING we are feeling so PERFECTLY! GOD BLESS you and your family!
Yes! Exactly what I needed! My husband and I have decided to start homeschooling this fall. Our girls will be in 2nd & 3rd grades and we have a 1 year old son. I hear you, mama! God has called me to do this and I had been trying to ignore it for a long time. I had the anxiety, the stress, what will people think and on and on. Luckily God is persistent and He kept calling me 1and I have listened. We made our decision to go forth with homeschooling just this weekend and I feel at peace. ... and very excited :) A lot of the reasons I want to homeschool, you nailed it! They're rolling around in my mind somewhere but it was nice to hear a "list" to organize those thoughts. Thanks so much from a newbie homeschool mom!
Oooo, good list. I saw homeschoolers at church when I was a kid and decided it was for me. When my husband proposed (huge surprise) I asked if he’d pay for 5 homeschoolers. He said yes. I said yes. 14 years later we’re still going strong. Good for you!
Yes! I pulled my 1st grader from our school district because of the system not the school or the teachers. They were both so great and so supportive of our decision to homeschool.
Thank you for being so raw and open. You are very brave! We have a special circumstance as my husband and I have grown children who went thru the public system and we are so proud of them. We now have younger children who are just starting out in public school and I’ve been so lucky to have found John Gatto and Holt books - I wholeheartedly believe in what they say. So we are pulling our youngest out of school and I will be homeschooling them this fall. I am ready to pull them out today but I think I’ll wait until the school year ends. We’re in California -so much has changed with the “educational “ system. Thank you for your videos!
i teared up when you said to "answer that call" because i feel it on my heart and i have since i was pregnant with my first. I'm just struggling with my own insecurities and doubting myself lately. Thank you for this❤
I’m watching this video several years later while halfway thru my first year of homeschooling. THANK YOU for being courageous. Your list really resonated with me. God bless you sister!
This video is 2 years old and I just started homeschooling my 6 grader for the very reasons you highlighted. Thank you for being courageous, I appreciate you!
Amen! We have been Homeschooling from the beginning and I know that this is for sure a calling. When we face so much scrutiny for our lifestyle we have to be willing to defend it with a strong foundation. Thank you for sharing!
Love all your reasons! I enjoy being my boys, letting them stay kids as long as possible! Plus I can teach them godly values and take them places not always possible when in school! :-)
I wouldn’t worry about such a large disclaimer at the start. All reasonable people would be understanding that these are your own personal reasons for homeschooling. Unfortunately some people will always criticise, but I wouldn’t worry about them. You do you! Great video btw xx
I can feel and sense and read the conviction continents and oceans away and I LOVE IT! GOD will always watch over you and your family because you have been obedient and you didn't allow fear to stop you from obeying Him. You will never lack or run out of provision of any kind that you and your children/family need to support you on this wonderful journey! You can just tell that it was not a haphazard decision, prayer went into it and most importantly you heed the call! I know precisely how that feels. Man you encourage me! Love from South Africa!
My son started high school today. My wife and l both didn't sleep well at all last night. Bullying and 36 kids to one teacher in his math class and he didn't get any of the classes that he wanted because he is not in to sports. It's been a long stressful day at work for me. He has been on my mind all day.
Every single of your reasons, are my reasons!!! God calls us , we must answer...It is such a strong calling one that I couldn't run away from. Blessings!
Thank you for sharing. I'm currently in a tug of war within myself to homeschool my son. I'm single, work a fix full time schedule, but all the arrows seem to point in the direction of homeschooling. My son is 12 and struggles in the traditional school setting. He processes information a little slower than most teachers are willing to slow down. And his need for movement is great! But everything you said reasonated with me.
Girl! Yes! Yes! Yes! If I would have written a list it would look just like yours! I agree with every word you said! I always say that about having peace with knowing I did everything I could to help my boys. My oldest has multiple neurological issues and was labeled the bad kid quickly in school. He was my original reason for making that scary decision. His self esteem was broken and my sweet boy cried every single day. I pulled him out 2 weeks into 2nd grade then continued with his brothers as they approached Kinder. I don’t regret my decision for one second even on the tough days. Hearing someone else have the same reasons as myself is really encouraging because so many people don’t understand. Thank you for your courage with this video!! 😘
The Young Family Farm Thankyou! I too relate to a label being slapped on a kiddo, mine at a very young age! And guess what, he’s not any of those things! I’m so thankful I didn’t listen!
Thank you for sharing! All of your reasons ring true in our homeschool as well. We are just finishing our 2nd year and I understand completely answering the call. It’s not always easy but I believe what God has called us to do, He will provide a way.
Thank you, I needed to see this today. I have been struggling with the decision to homeschool. This video came up just after I said a prayer asking for clarity.
This video was beautiful and made me cry! I will be homeschooling for the first time next year, and I struggled so much trying to make that decision because of my fears. But I knew in my heart it’s what God wanted me to do and the step he wanted me to take. Once my husband and I decided together to make that jump, I felt like I could breathe again. Thank you for doing what you do! ❤️
Thank you my dear sister for sharing this. I had a dream a few weeks ago and the Lord was urging me to consider home schooling. I was in prayer before this dream and the Spirit of the Lord said to me that his hand and grace will be upon public schools 5 years and he would extend 2yrs to the private christian school. So, something is up, something is coming! Thank you for sharing this may the Lord continue to bless and prosper you and your family!
Thank you for sharing that. I believe in the prophetic as I as experienced the spirit pouring out especially in recent years. I know the tumoil that's coming and I want my baby close. She so social though, the queen bee of the school. I worry about isolating her. Then I think, what is more important? Then I get scared again and question my ability to deal with my challenging daughter on a daily basis, or I question if I'm disciplined enough? So your post, it helps, and I'll pray on it.
Thank you for sharing this! For someone who is starting their official homeschool journey this fall I love the idea of writing details of my "why" before I get started.
😭😭😭😭. I started watching video #2. and I was thinking " I wish i can homeschool but the laws here in NY are so intimidating!" and boom you mentioned video #1 I clicked and wao! you touched my heart. many of the reasons you had to start are things I have been thinking. I wish you where my neighbor. lol please pray for me.You motivated me to be courageous but I need God's guidance and wisdom to take the Wright steps. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you so much for sharing. Those are my reasons as well. Pulling out my oldest 2 that will be going into 4th and 1st to start homeschool in the fall. I love their elementary school so much, but couldn't ignore the reasons why homeschooling would be so much better for them and the rest of my kids. I can't wait for part 2.
I’m a public/charter school teacher and I wholeheartedly agree with your reasons. My the Lord crown your efforts with much success!😇 ... because only what you do for Him will last.
Thank you for sharing your reason why you decided to homeschool. I agree with all your reasons and at times I have forgotten why we started to homeschool. Homeschooling can be hard on moms who are doing all the work with many children and dad away at work all the time. But, writing all your reason down so you don't forget is a great way to remember why you are doing this when the going gets tough. Thank your for your encouragement.
Great video! We started out homeschooling when my first was 5 years old. So we really don’t have any experience with what is going on in the public/private/ charter schools. Like peer pressure and oversexualization and the adjustments of new teachers. So those things help solidify what we are also trying to accomplish in our kids hearts without realizing it. I feel so grateful every night that we live in a country where we have the freedom to chose the type of education for our individual child.
I love your list. It's as if I wrote it myself. One of the struggles of homeschooling is self doubt. Sometimes it comes creeping up on you if you're doing the best teaching and if they are learning enough. I feel like being involved really helps you to see how much each child is flourishing. It also helps to see if they need extra help. Thanks for making this video and sharing your reasons why.
Thank you soooo much for sharing!❤I believe that every single one of the reasons why you started homeschooling is absolutely, positively wonderful!!!👍❤I wished I listened to the call of pulling my kids out of public school when my daughter was starting middle school...but, she didn't want to!😞 Now she says she wants to be homeschooled (she's going into 9th grade) because of bulling, peer pressure, school academic demands, among other reasons! I can't wait for part 2!!! You're doing wonderful...and may the Lord keep guiding you as you lead your kids the way He wants you to!🙏🙏🙏
I love every single reason you gave! Thank you!!! We decided to homeschool before we were married for just a very simple reason...to be able to focus our children's minds and hearts on the Lord. You've encouraged me to make my own list again. I feel like this is a good thing to reflect on every year to keep our minds focused on the most important goals. I consistently find inspiration in your videos.
I know this is an older video but your reasons were spot on to the reasons I want to homeschool my son- even down to more time with Dad. But I appreciated this because you put into words what I couldn’t. I’m just like- there are just things I think he needs to not be thrown into at a young age! So thank you!
Thank you for sharing your heart with the world!! I really appreciate you making this video. We are pulling our soon to be 1st grader out of public school and I am over the moon excited to also answer the call from God as well! Thanks again for sharing love, I really appreciate it!!
I am so glad I came across this video. This speaks to my heart. I had struggled the last two years with a pull on my heart to homeschool. This year we are finally pulling them out and teaching them at home. I am so excited for this journey! I am now subscribed to your channel and can't wait to watch more videos.
Thank you so much for making this video. I am a new home school mom. I currently have one child in a charter and one that didn't make the lottery for that charter and ended up homeschooling him. Both were previously in a private Christian school. I do see the difference in my boys. My youngest, the one who did get into the charter started changing... he is being exposed to bad words from kids and attitudes and I see it. I have struggled tremendously as to whether to pull him out and keep both at home. I feel God pulling me towards homeschooling but sometimes when I have already made up my mind, will come someone and make me feel like I am making a huge mistake and I go back to square one. I bumped into your video and I am very blessed by it is as if this is a confirmation that what I have been feeling is ok. I don't have a problem with the school, is a great charter school, but I feel like I have failed my son by exposing him to that world at only 6/7. I know that he would benefit from the one on one teaching as opposed to being in the classroom. Anyhow THANK YOU A MILLION TIMES!
Amen girl!!!! Thank you for being raw with your feelings- I know that is hard. You can't please them all, but I totally agree with you!!!!! Your list is right there with mine.
Thanks for sharing! I’m a new subscriber and my son and I are preparing to start our homeschool journey. I love the tip of writing out my reasons for homeschooling! I’m going to put my list in the front of my planner so that I can go back to it often 🙂
So so so gooood. This video has helped SO much! “Answer the call” I always stop when the doubt creep in but the call has never left! So I need to do this!
Ashleeeeee!!! Yeeeessss!! This is by far my favorite video you’ve done. I agree with you 💯%. Great job. You have perfectly articulated how we moms feel. 💗
For years I have been wanting to homeschool my kids. I currently I have a 5th grader, a 3rd grader & a kindergartener. Since the pandemic I have realized how much i dislike public school. Along with my husband we have decided this is the last year our kids will be in PS. Homeschooling for jr high & high school is very important to me, bur I wish I could have started since my oldest started kinder. I know this is an old video but I know God keeps putting these videos for me to watch.
thank you! I am going to pull my 4th grader out of our parochial school to homeschool starting Monday and now that I have given notice at work and to the school, I am feeling doubt creeping in even though I truly felt God was leading me to do this. I have to remind myself that this is His plan and follow through.
I know this is not a new video, but I just found it - it is exactly what I needed tonight. Your list is exactly in tune with my personal list (nearly identical) I am pulling my 1st grader beginning next month after we move. Definitely subscribing to your channel!
My mother hated her experiences in public school and so she homeschooled me. As an adult I’m very grateful to her for homeschooling me. I plan on homeschooling mine when I get to that point, and for the same reasons that you had written.
Praise God for you (and all the other families represented here) for following the Lord's leading to "train them up in the way they should go". This is confirmation of our living God still speaking to us today! These are the exact same reasons we chose to homeschool several years ago and pulled our oldest out of PS. It has certainly not been easy but it brings so much peace to know that you're fulfilling what He's called you to do. I was blessed to be able to encourage an old friend this week who chose to put her kids back in school this year. Now she 'can't shake the feeling' that she should bring them back home. I'll share this video with her as your succinct and sincere words communicate pretty much exactly what I was trying to tell her. Thanks again, Ashlee. ~ Melissa
Thank you for sharing. This has been my first year of homeschooling and it’s been great, but I DID need to hear this. It will help me share my reasons for leaving a 13 year career for my 2 middle schoolers.
I ABSOLUTELY LOVE listening to your videos!!! I am a military spouse and I see my children struggling with each move. My daughter is special needs and struggles a lot. So these videos are helping me swallow those fears and see a silver lining ❤️ thank you
Amy Shaffer-Yes thank you so very much for the sacrifices you make for this country. I was so inspired by President Trump and First Lady Melania's celebration of military families last week. We recognize the sacrifices of the service men and women but its the families at homes that live with the day to day realities. So thank you!
I felt like you were speaking for me! I have so many similar reasons why we homeschool. God bless you on your journey! Hang tough. And thank you for your review of The Good and Beautiful!
New subscriber and first time homeschooler here! I’ve been binging your videos 😬 and this one spoke to me big time when you mentioned doing what you’re being called to do! My 1st grader and 2 year old are home with me all day. I had been feeling such a strong tug before my daughter would have been physically entering public school to keep her home. It was something I couldn’t ignore and after being very active sitting in at school board meetings to understand bigger pictures and direction they were going in, I knew God was leading me to homeschool. I couldn’t ignore it and everyday I’m grateful for making that decision to go for it. We are still trying to find our way in this new territory but I trust we will find our groove. Your reasons are almost all of mine plus some with the state of this world right now. I SO appreciate you 💛.
Thank you for sharing your heart. I could sense your emotions through this video and had such a connection with your fears and reasons. I have been wrestling with this "calling" and we have decided to start our homeschool journey the next school year!!! This is such a SCARY process and so many unknowns but we are excited and I look forward to diving into all your great advice. Thank you for encouraging all us new homeschool moms.
Thank you!! I needed this, I've been feeling the pull/call since my first was born 7 years ago and with way our life has changed a financial reason has actually opened the door and even though business is poor my heart is so full and happy. I agree with almost every single point, I must remember to write them down so I can also look back at them. I wrote to my 2 kids schools today letting them know our plans and we aren't coming back next term. Bless you and your family!
I have found that when we forge forward in fear and trembling, uncertain about whether or not what we have decided is right, if it truly is right, GOD STEPS IN TREMENDOUSLY!!!! HIS SUPPORT IS INCREDIBLE!!! YOU find yourself on the other side not even knowing HOW? But we know how.. GOD LITERALLY CARRIES YOU IN HIS ARMS! HE TAKES OVER! Man I have a ton of testimonies where God JUST TOOK OVER !!! I AM SO GRATEFUL! You made the right decision and you are BRAVE and amazing! I only have one child and I thought it would be easy but I am realizing that it has nothing to do with the number but the motive behind it all and that is exactly what God looks into and support. Thank you so much for the idea, I know them by heart but writing them down sounds great. I also saw Bonnie's video where she advises that you write down your vision. God bless you and your family! I only found your channel yesterday and I have been binging on your videos. I am so motivated, thank you so much! Love from South Africa!
Thank you for sharing. I'm feeling the tug on my heart for the same and similar reasons. I have 4 children, 1 in school and I just feel the stress of always being on the go and feeling like the time we have together in not quality. Even though my oldest does well in school we miss each other so much and there seems to be such little time to be a kid and be together. I'm terrified of the decision. I find encouragement in your channel because I feel the same and have 4 children and feel unqualified. Thank you.
It’s definitely an Answer to the Call!! When we made the decision to homeschool I felt such a peace, I’m thankful for this opportunity to homeschool and raise my babies in a safe environment!! Thank you for speaking from your heart, even though this was 2 years ago. Your channel is such a HUGE blessing.
Just seeing this video for the first time. My kids have never been to a public/private school. We have homeschooled since day 1. But I needed this. Today was one of those days. This video just popped up on my feed and God knew this was exactly what I needed. Honestly, this was the best video I've ever seen on YT. Thank you Ashlee, so much for all you do.
Thanks for posting! I THOROUGHLY enjoy your videos! I appreciate you taking the time to post videos to help people like me who just started homeschooling out.
Thank you for sharing. I received encouragement from this video. As I look to begin our homeschool year this August I have started to get a bit afraid. It is such a big decision but because of many of the reasons that you have listed I am pushing forward. If God leads me to it, he will lead me through it and more than anything I need to be spirit-led first. So thanks again and keep sharing
Thank you for this. My son is only 2, but I am already feeling the tug on my heart you mention. Your video is giving me more courage to begin this road in a few years.
I absolutely love this video! We are just wrapping up our first year of homeschooling and I have watched your videos since my beginning- I was originally inspired because you were also using sonlight, I still leave your videos feeling inspired and uplifted! It’s been so rewarding for me to look back to when I felt that scary pulling on my heart and we took the plunge into homeschooling. It’s been such a memorable year and we are continuing for next year! Thank you for sharing your heart. I always feel like your videos are genuine and I appreciate that and love that about your channel 💕
I love! Love! Love! That you shared your fears with your viewers. I had the same fears as you. I had homeschooled my two kids when they were younger, but because of fear I sent them to school. This year I decided to homeschooling them after they spent 5 years in traditional schools. It has been a scary choice and I am still struggling with my fears. To hear you voice similar fears gives me courage to stay the course. Thank you for being brave. :)
I made the decision to home school 7 years ago. I was a public school teacher and staunch supporter of public schools in my state. As a SAHM, I was PTO president. Then God told me to home school. I felt all of those feelings you felt. You will never regret doing it. These are our kids and it doesn't really matter what other people think. My husband was on board and he sees the many wonderful fruits of this way of life and that is all that matters! :) God Bless you and your family!
Thank you so much for sharing this video! I am a former public elementary school teacher turned homeschooling momma. My list of why we decided for me to quit my job and bring our 5 year old home after her public school pre-k year is VERY similar. I can’t wait to see your part 2 video.
Hi Ashley!! Aww! We are finishing our first year. I know that watching your channel has encouraged me and guided me in so many ways. I thank God for you! God is leading us to try public school again. I guess when we said:”year by year” we meant it. There have been some amazing conversations and experiences with my girls this year, I really found it hard to get “adult” time and self-care into my days. Blessings!!
All wonderful reasons! I was ready to cry right before you started with the reasons calling mothers to obey the call to do what they could if they felt the Lord speaking to them! My mother really regrets focusing so obsesively on housework and she felt she lost one of my brothers to drugs and really bad influences that ended up causing a lot of heartache and destruction in his life. Now, he has been redemed for almost two decades but the consecuences of that lifestyle are still there. So yes! Thank you for making this video and for calling us to ponder on building the foundations of our children.
Esmeralda Ramírez What does it look like to be addicted to housework? With homeschooling so feel like every other spare moment in my day consists of cleaning and food prep and cooking. There is far less margin in the day for a homeschooling mom and I feel like she shouldn’t have to let things go because of it. What did addiction look like for your mom? Jut tying to get validation that I am not addicted to housework! I never slack in my routine but ai don’t want that to appear like addiction, though I know I prefer my house cleaner than some others. But I feel it is unfair to think I can’t keep up my standard of clean just because I homeschool and have less time during the day in which to complete the tasks. I do a lot of “stealing” time to get it done. Less sleep, etc.
Tara Tags I didn't mean she was addicted to housework. I meant she was so focused on her house that she did not take the time to be close to her boys when they were teens. So she feels she placed a higher priority to her house and to be a big support for her extended family instead of building a strong relationship with her own children nor on taking them to church at all during those years when the world's tide could influence them for the bad.
That totally makes sense - I think all of us will look back in regret about some things in our lives (kind of how older women seem to romanticize the baby stage the farther away from it they get), but mostly I think we need to trust God that he is enabling us to do the best we can while balancing relationships and sometimes our sanity!
Most of these reasons are the reasons I've decided to pull my daughter out of school halfway through this year! Even though she was in a Christian school, we still saw things that made us want to homeschool, and with Covid not giving her the experience we wanted at school, we pulled her out and it has been amazing. My friend who has always homeschooled her kids sent me one of your videos, and I have been catching up! Thank you for your content :)
These are wonderful reasons! Thank you so much for sharing. This was our first year and I can say most of my reasons are similar to yours. I have two olders that went through public school and my two youngest have spent some time there but what a world of difference a year has made. So I firmly believe your reasons are excellent and I truly wish I was in a better place in my life earlier to pull my oldest two out! Can’t wait for part 2
Love this video !! This relates to me so much ! We actually started to homeschool a year ago and I gave up not feeling adequate enough . I’ve felt this every day since then and have ordered the good and the beautiful to start homeschooling our four children again !! Thanks for all the videos very helpful!! Here’s to raising healthy happy children !!
My oldest son (currently 7) is in public school now and I've felt a deep desire to homeschool ever since summer started. Every reason you listed is exactly why I want to homeschool. It feels very overwhelming right now to make the decision, thinking I can't live up to the task. I have a younger son who's almost 4 and I would be doing preschool homeschool with him as well. Would you mind saying a prayer for me as our family transitions to this soon? Love this video and thank you so much for sharing!
Its wonderful that you have shared your heart with us! Most of everything thing on your list was/is on our list as well plus a few more. My first homeschool youtuber to watch was Nicci from Afarmhousefull, theunlikelyhomeschool and Jamarill Stuart at large family table.They helped me through all the how tos when I couldn't find the answer from others I knew personally. And I know many a new homeschooling moms will find your channel equally helpful! I believe sharing our hearts shows the world the strength of the Lord and the work he can do even in our weakness. Thanks for sharing, and what wonderful mom you are being for your children!! Blessings to you!
Thankyou so much for sharing! It was that tug that led me to finally do it.. it has only been about 2.5 months and I don’t regret it one bit. It is beyond the academics, although TGATB taught my child to read in less than two weeks. He was always ready, just needed the one on one. This journey already has been so fruitful and I look forward to many more years!!
I just came across this video of yours and I am so grateful that I did! I have been homeschooling my 5 year old son this year for his TK year, have been struggling with my reasons and considering sending him to school next year and wow you have encouraged me so much! Thank you for being real and sharing your heart with us all.
Thank you for being courageous to share your story. I am transitioning my kids out of public school after school is out next week and I felt like your video was a great reminder from God that me and my husband are on the right track. Thank you so much for sharing your story!
I have been binge watching your videos. Lol. I really needed this. All of those reasons of why are my same thoughts and I feel like so many people don't understand the desire to homeschool. Glad to know that I'm not alone in my heart's desire to homeschool while we have the ability to.
i love this entire video and your reason. I have 3 reasons why I want to start homeschooling but you named obvious some reasons that I never thought out loud and that I will write down because as you were saying them I just thought WOW that is extremely important.
Your courage is amazing! I love your list! I know why I began but on the hard days and when asked, I fumble and forget. We’ve been homeschooling for 9 years and I’ve never thought to do this. Thanks for sharing this with us!
Ashlee this was awesome and really encouraging. I feel many of the same things you did. Especially being led by God and he will always bring great things from obeying him. I really admire your courage and thank you. I really feel God is using you to encourage a mom like me to be brave and follow his leading. 💗💗💗💗💗💗
Grace and Grit Im glad it made your day. And that sounds great to take this walk in faith together. I feel like God was making me think of what is my real purpose as a mom. And its so important now in these days we r living in for our children to know God. 💗💗 I hope u had a great mothers day!💜💜
Thank you , I am struggling too, I don't have peace too because I know God wants me to homeschool my girls ( 3yr old and 1.5 yrl old) . Thank you for your support.
I love that you made a list and saved it! I’ve been struggling with whether or not to continue homeschooling, and it’s great to remember why I chose this path.
Same here Ashlee. I want to say also that I don't feel as if their childhood is slipping away, at all. And that's because we are home schooling. My soon to be 5 year old will be in kindergarten next year, with us at home. I'm so excited!! I look forward to those days of early reading with her. If not for home school I would be filled with dread!!!
Love❤️ this I pulled my daughter mid 6th grade year because of bullies and the curriculum also I felt she was not in a safe environment so many things I made my decision in a instant its like god just told me♥️😊🙏 just do it XX so i did XX i have thought many times am i doing the right thing and i come to yes we will continue to homeschool 7th grade to ps love your channel 😇😊♥❤️♥♥️♥️i agree with everything you said 😇Amen🙏
I love all your reasons. I’m facing that decision of homeschooling. My son will be in 5th grade next school year and I intend to homeschool for 6th grade until high school. I want to homeschool because he learns differently and at a different pace. That’s one of my main reasons. I have to make a list of more reasons.
Our journey to homeschooling was very accidental, but now I literally can't imagine doing life any other way. A lot of the things you've listed have also become reasons why I now continue to homeschool. We're business owners too, so having the flexibility of our schedule is absolutely essential to us having a healthy family life. There's no way we could run our business, and be slaves to the clock with pick up and drop off, and have the kids actually see their amazing Daddy.
My oldest kiddo started kindergarten in public school this year. I’ve gone back and forth between homeschooling and public schooling and thought when I put him in school that back and forth would go away. The tug to homeschool has only increased though. I’m currently doing more research on homeschooling and that’s how I came across your video. Your reasonings to HS are exactly in line with my thoughts, thanks for the encouragement to not ignore the tug.
7:41 reasons start.
So helpful! Thank you.
Thank you for being courageous! I chose to homeschool for the same reasons!! I never had kids in public school, but I WAS a public school teacher. I wanted to “change the system” for better as a teacher, but I realized God was calling me to just focus on my own children. Best decision I’ve made. ☺️ I look forward to your part 2!
Joyful Noise Living Thankyou for sharing! I love hearing from teachers in public school, turned teachers at home! Your Insight is one of my favorites!
Thank you so much for sharing and posting this video. I'm planning to put my notice in at work today and begin homeschooling my upcoming 3rd grade daughter starting in July. I'm super nervous, anxious & excited. Please send prayers my way today!
Melissa Hutchins thank you so much!!
Alison Hall, May the Lord strengthen you and give you the wisdom in each step you have to take.
I started homeschooling 2 years ago and I am so glad we followed what the Lord was calling us to do.
Praying for you! This was our first year after public school and let me tell you best decision we made. You got this!
Alison Hall praying for you as you begin your journey! I had all those same feelings! Your daughter is blessed by you!
I pulled mine out middle of 3rd (she should have been 4th). We’ve slacked a lot. She’s refused a lot yet we’ve still gained a grade level in math. Don’t be nervous ☺️ we’re flying by the seat of our pants and she isn’t totally damaged yet. If anything her curiosity is coming back. Most days she refuses because she hates school but the days are lessening. Oh and check out Khan Academy. It was a lifesaver that first month or so. Still is! Emma loves it.
You were “that mom on TH-cam” for me. We began homeschooling because of the events of 2020, but God had been working on my heart through your videos many years beforehand. I just came across this today, and I wanted to thank you for showing me that I am more than capable to do this for my children. You are a light and a walking example to so many through this platform, probably many more than you realize. ❤️
I needed this video!! We are pulling our kindergarten student out as soon as he finishes out this school year (2 weeks left) and homeschooling him & our 4 year old because of the education system as a whole and they keep wanting to label my kindergarten student as having ADHD which I believe is way over diagnosed and medication is overly given to kids for this but what they really need is a simplified childhood and education! It's been on my heart since before I had children to homeschool. But I kept letting all the fears control my decisions. I am still afraid but I am finally at peace that this is what God wants me to do and He will guide me through this new journey! You're doing a fabulous job Momma!!! An inspiration to many!
Brianna Maddux I so agree!! ADHD is way over diagnosed and medication is not needed so young! Kids need to be kids and learn through play. And grow in their “sit down and listen” skills. It takes time :)
I relate so much to your comment, I didn’t obey at first! Praying for you sweet lady!
I also agree that ADHD is over diagnosed. I was diagnosed at age 7 and was put on medication because I had so much energy & it distracted the other children.
Medication is NOT what high-energy/hyper children need; what they need is to have a flexible schedule that allows for many running around the room breaks & a parent/teacher that has patience.
"ADHD"/hyper children simply don't fit in a school-shaped box - they need a different kind of environment to thrive.
My mother wanted to homeschool me because she knew all of these things, but couldn't because she was a single parent that had to go to work. I feel so grateful that my husband is so supportive of our choice to homeschool our daughter. I get to stay home with her & teach her the Christ-oriented, confidence-building and laid-back way that will best benefit her. Thank you, Jesus. ♥
Amen, answer that call, it's hard at first but you get used to it after a few months and then you are so grateful you did!
New subscriber! I honestly don't know how anyone could disagree with the heart behind any of this. I hear a lot that about not over sheltering your kids. But I've honestly never heard "My mom spent too much time with, had too many conversations with me, or made too many memories with me."
I have on the flip side seem many broken hearts that needed encouragement and support that a school wasn't able to give them.
We have to remember, some of us live in areas with fantastic schools, and some of us do not. I was homeschooled my whole life, and because of family circumstances, my mom really wasn't very involved with me the way I needed her. I hope to give my girls not only an education, but a relationship and a confidence to tackle whatever they want.
Only 6 minutes in and I’m in tears ! I feel so lead to homeschool my children. My oldest is 4 and would be starting preschool in the fall and I have been feeling so heavily lately that public school is not for our family. Your words have confirmed what I have been praying about! Thank you for being obedient and speaking what the Holy Spirit has lead you to say!
i know this video is 4yrs old but i wanted to thank you for this video. when you were saying your REASONS for homeschooling, i literally cried. you said EVERYTHING we are feeling so PERFECTLY! GOD BLESS you and your family!
Yes! Exactly what I needed! My husband and I have decided to start homeschooling this fall. Our girls will be in 2nd & 3rd grades and we have a 1 year old son. I hear you, mama! God has called me to do this and I had been trying to ignore it for a long time. I had the anxiety, the stress, what will people think and on and on. Luckily God is persistent and He kept calling me 1and I have listened. We made our decision to go forth with homeschooling just this weekend and I feel at peace. ... and very excited :) A lot of the reasons I want to homeschool, you nailed it! They're rolling around in my mind somewhere but it was nice to hear a "list" to organize those thoughts. Thanks so much from a newbie homeschool mom!
Charissa Stumpf yes! The call never leaves! We serve a persistent God!
Oooo, good list. I saw homeschoolers at church when I was a kid and decided it was for me. When my husband proposed (huge surprise) I asked if he’d pay for 5 homeschoolers. He said yes. I said yes. 14 years later we’re still going strong.
Good for you!
you're "The mom on youtube" for me that is totally inspiring me to make the change to homeschool my boys. thank you!!
Erika Diaz so thankful to be “that” person!
Yes! I pulled my 1st grader from our school district because of the system not the school or the teachers. They were both so great and so supportive of our decision to homeschool.
Thank you for being so raw and open. You are very brave! We have a special circumstance as my husband and I have grown children who went thru the public system and we are so proud of them. We now have younger children who are just starting out in public school and I’ve been so lucky to have found John Gatto and Holt books - I wholeheartedly believe in what they say. So we are pulling our youngest out of school and I will be homeschooling them this fall. I am ready to pull them out today but I think I’ll wait until the school year ends. We’re in California -so much has changed with the “educational “ system. Thank you for your videos!
i teared up when you said to "answer that call" because i feel it on my heart and i have since i was pregnant with my first. I'm just struggling with my own insecurities and doubting myself lately. Thank you for this❤
I’m watching this video several years later while halfway thru my first year of homeschooling. THANK YOU for being courageous. Your list really resonated with me. God bless you sister!
This video is 2 years old and I just started homeschooling my 6 grader for the very reasons you highlighted. Thank you for being courageous, I appreciate you!
What math are you using for Middle school?
Amen! We have been Homeschooling from the beginning and I know that this is for sure a calling. When we face so much scrutiny for our lifestyle we have to be willing to defend it with a strong foundation. Thank you for sharing!
Love all your reasons! I enjoy being my boys, letting them stay kids as long as possible! Plus I can teach them godly values and take them places not always possible when in school! :-)
I wouldn’t worry about such a large disclaimer at the start. All reasonable people would be understanding that these are your own personal reasons for homeschooling. Unfortunately some people will always criticise, but I wouldn’t worry about them. You do you! Great video btw xx
I can feel and sense and read the conviction continents and oceans away and I LOVE IT! GOD will always watch over you and your family because you have been obedient and you didn't allow fear to stop you from obeying Him. You will never lack or run out of provision of any kind that you and your children/family need to support you on this wonderful journey! You can just tell that it was not a haphazard decision, prayer went into it and most importantly you heed the call! I know precisely how that feels. Man you encourage me! Love from South Africa!
My son started high school today. My wife and l both didn't sleep well at all last night. Bullying and 36 kids to one teacher in his math class and he didn't get any of the classes that he wanted because he is not in to sports. It's been a long stressful day at work for me. He has been on my mind all day.
Every single of your reasons, are my reasons!!! God calls us , we must answer...It is such a strong calling one that I couldn't run away from. Blessings!
Thank you for sharing. I'm currently in a tug of war within myself to homeschool my son. I'm single, work a fix full time schedule, but all the arrows seem to point in the direction of homeschooling. My son is 12 and struggles in the traditional school setting. He processes information a little slower than most teachers are willing to slow down. And his need for movement is great! But everything you said reasonated with me.
MsLiosha Hi! My son is 12 and I’m wanting to homeschool as well. Were you able to homeschool your son?
Girl! Yes! Yes! Yes! If I would have written a list it would look just like yours! I agree with every word you said! I always say that about having peace with knowing I did everything I could to help my boys. My oldest has multiple neurological issues and was labeled the bad kid quickly in school. He was my original reason for making that scary decision. His self esteem was broken and my sweet boy cried every single day. I pulled him out 2 weeks into 2nd grade then continued with his brothers as they approached Kinder. I don’t regret my decision for one second even on the tough days. Hearing someone else have the same reasons as myself is really encouraging because so many people don’t understand. Thank you for your courage with this video!! 😘
The Young Family Farm Thankyou! I too relate to a label being slapped on a kiddo, mine at a very young age! And guess what, he’s not any of those things! I’m so thankful I didn’t listen!
Thank you for sharing! All of your reasons ring true in our homeschool as well. We are just finishing our 2nd year and I understand completely answering the call. It’s not always easy but I believe what God has called us to do, He will provide a way.
OurSereneLife amen!
Thank you, I needed to see this today. I have been struggling with the decision to homeschool. This video came up just after I said a prayer asking for clarity.
This video was beautiful and made me cry! I will be homeschooling for the first time next year, and I struggled so much trying to make that decision because of my fears. But I knew in my heart it’s what God wanted me to do and the step he wanted me to take. Once my husband and I decided together to make that jump, I felt like I could breathe again. Thank you for doing what you do! ❤️
Thank you my dear sister for sharing this. I had a dream a few weeks ago and the Lord was urging me to consider home schooling. I was in prayer before this dream and the Spirit of the Lord said to me that his hand and grace will be upon public schools 5 years and he would extend 2yrs to the private christian school. So, something is up, something is coming! Thank you for sharing this may the Lord continue to bless and prosper you and your family!
Thank you for sharing that. I believe in the prophetic as I as experienced the spirit pouring out especially in recent years.
I know the tumoil that's coming and I want my baby close.
She so social though, the queen bee of the school. I worry about isolating her. Then I think, what is more important? Then I get scared again and question my ability to deal with my challenging daughter on a daily basis, or I question if I'm disciplined enough?
So your post, it helps, and I'll pray on it.
Thank you for sharing this! For someone who is starting their official homeschool journey this fall I love the idea of writing details of my "why" before I get started.
😭😭😭😭. I started watching video #2. and I was thinking " I wish i can homeschool but the laws here in NY are so intimidating!" and boom you mentioned video #1 I clicked and wao! you touched my heart. many of the reasons you had to start are things I have been thinking. I wish you where my neighbor. lol please pray for me.You motivated me to be courageous but I need God's guidance and wisdom to take the Wright steps. Thanks for sharing.
Rosimi Palacios praying mama! Remember where there is his will he will make a way!
Thank you so much for sharing. Those are my reasons as well. Pulling out my oldest 2 that will be going into 4th and 1st to start homeschool in the fall. I love their elementary school so much, but couldn't ignore the reasons why homeschooling would be so much better for them and the rest of my kids. I can't wait for part 2.
Wow Ashlee. I agree. Every decision I make is so I can sleep at night, and stand in front of Jesus.
Thank you.
I’m a public/charter school teacher and I wholeheartedly agree with your reasons. My the Lord crown your efforts with much success!😇 ... because only what you do for Him will last.
Thank you for sharing your reason why you decided to homeschool. I agree with all your reasons and at times I have forgotten why we started to homeschool. Homeschooling can be hard on moms who are doing all the work with many children and dad away at work all the time. But, writing all your reason down so you don't forget is a great way to remember why you are doing this when the going gets tough. Thank your for your encouragement.
Great video! We started out homeschooling when my first was 5 years old. So we really don’t have any experience with what is going on in the public/private/ charter schools. Like peer pressure and oversexualization and the adjustments of new teachers. So those things help solidify what we are also trying to accomplish in our kids hearts without realizing it. I feel so grateful every night that we live in a country where we have the freedom to chose the type of education for our individual child.
Lindsay Christian agree
I love your list. It's as if I wrote it myself. One of the struggles of homeschooling is self doubt. Sometimes it comes creeping up on you if you're doing the best teaching and if they are learning enough. I feel like being involved really helps you to see how much each child is flourishing. It also helps to see if they need extra help. Thanks for making this video and sharing your reasons why.
Thank you soooo much for sharing!❤I believe that every single one of the reasons why you started homeschooling is absolutely, positively wonderful!!!👍❤I wished I listened to the call of pulling my kids out of public school when my daughter was starting middle school...but, she didn't want to!😞 Now she says she wants to be homeschooled (she's going into 9th grade) because of bulling, peer pressure, school academic demands, among other reasons!
I can't wait for part 2!!!
You're doing wonderful...and may the Lord keep guiding you as you lead your kids the way He wants you to!🙏🙏🙏
Gina Valentino-Vallejo amen! And Thankyou! Praying your daughters home education journey is the change you both want!
Grace and Grit Thank you!
I love every single reason you gave! Thank you!!! We decided to homeschool before we were married for just a very simple reason...to be able to focus our children's minds and hearts on the Lord. You've encouraged me to make my own list again. I feel like this is a good thing to reflect on every year to keep our minds focused on the most important goals. I consistently find inspiration in your videos.
I know this is an older video but your reasons were spot on to the reasons I want to homeschool my son- even down to more time with Dad. But I appreciated this because you put into words what I couldn’t. I’m just like- there are just things I think he needs to not be thrown into at a young age! So thank you!
LOVE THIS VIDEO!!! So Glad your children have one of the most priceless gifts of all. An amazing Godly homeschooling mom.
I always tell ppl that I loved my oldest daughter’s kindergarten and 1st grade teacher. Homeschool just works much better for our lifestyle.
Thank you for sharing your heart with the world!! I really appreciate you making this video. We are pulling our soon to be 1st grader out of public school and I am over the moon excited to also answer the call from God as well! Thanks again for sharing love, I really appreciate it!!
Yes, Yes, Yes!!!!! You are speaking our exact reasons for homeschooling! Thank you for sharing! I can't wait to see part 2. 👍
Crossing New Bridges of Motherhood ❤️❤️
I am so glad I came across this video. This speaks to my heart. I had struggled the last two years with a pull on my heart to homeschool. This year we are finally pulling them out and teaching them at home. I am so excited for this journey! I am now subscribed to your channel and can't wait to watch more videos.
Thank you so much for making this video. I am a new home school mom. I currently have one child in a charter and one that didn't make the lottery for that charter and ended up homeschooling him. Both were previously in a private Christian school. I do see the difference in my boys. My youngest, the one who did get into the charter started changing... he is being exposed to bad words from kids and attitudes and I see it. I have struggled tremendously as to whether to pull him out and keep both at home. I feel God pulling me towards homeschooling but sometimes when I have already made up my mind, will come someone and make me feel like I am making a huge mistake and I go back to square one. I bumped into your video and I am very blessed by it is as if this is a confirmation that what I have been feeling is ok. I don't have a problem with the school, is a great charter school, but I feel like I have failed my son by exposing him to that world at only 6/7. I know that he would benefit from the one on one teaching as opposed to being in the classroom. Anyhow THANK YOU A MILLION TIMES!
Amen girl!!!! Thank you for being raw with your feelings- I know that is hard. You can't please them all, but I totally agree with you!!!!! Your list is right there with mine.
Thanks for sharing! I’m a new subscriber and my son and I are preparing to start our homeschool journey. I love the tip of writing out my reasons for homeschooling! I’m going to put my list in the front of my planner so that I can go back to it often 🙂
Faith Mom Life welcome!!!! You’ll be so glad you did!
So so so gooood. This video has helped SO much! “Answer the call” I always stop when the doubt creep in but the call has never left! So I need to do this!
Ashleeeeee!!! Yeeeessss!! This is by far my favorite video you’ve done. I agree with you 💯%. Great job. You have perfectly articulated how we moms feel. 💗
For years I have been wanting to homeschool my kids. I currently I have a 5th grader, a 3rd grader & a kindergartener.
Since the pandemic I have realized how much i dislike public school. Along with my husband we have decided this is the last year our kids will be in PS. Homeschooling for jr high & high school is very important to me, bur I wish I could have started since my oldest started kinder.
I know this is an old video but I know God keeps putting these videos for me to watch.
thank you!
I am going to pull my 4th grader out of our parochial school to homeschool starting Monday and now that I have given notice at work and to the school, I am feeling doubt creeping in even though I truly felt God was leading me to do this. I have to remind myself that this is His plan and follow through.
I know this is not a new video, but I just found it - it is exactly what I needed tonight. Your list is exactly in tune with my personal list (nearly identical) I am pulling my 1st grader beginning next month after we move. Definitely subscribing to your channel!
My mother hated her experiences in public school and so she homeschooled me. As an adult I’m very grateful to her for homeschooling me. I plan on homeschooling mine when I get to that point, and for the same reasons that you had written.
Praise God for you (and all the other families represented here) for following the Lord's leading to "train them up in the way they should go". This is confirmation of our living God still speaking to us today!
These are the exact same reasons we chose to homeschool several years ago and pulled our oldest out of PS. It has certainly not been easy but it brings so much peace to know that you're fulfilling what He's called you to do.
I was blessed to be able to encourage an old friend this week who chose to put her kids back in school this year. Now she 'can't shake the feeling' that she should bring them back home. I'll share this video with her as your succinct and sincere words communicate pretty much exactly what I was trying to tell her. Thanks again, Ashlee.
~ Melissa
Thank you for sharing. This has been my first year of homeschooling and it’s been great, but I DID need to hear this. It will help me share my reasons for leaving a 13 year career for my 2 middle schoolers.
Oh wow!
I ABSOLUTELY LOVE listening to your videos!!! I am a military spouse and I see my children struggling with each move. My daughter is special needs and struggles a lot. So these videos are helping me swallow those fears and see a silver lining ❤️ thank you
Amy Shaffer yes mama! Thankyou for your families service!
Amy Shaffer-Yes thank you so very much for the sacrifices you make for this country. I was so inspired by President Trump and First Lady Melania's celebration of military families last week. We recognize the sacrifices of the service men and women but its the families at homes that live with the day to day realities. So thank you!
I felt like you were speaking for me! I have so many similar reasons why we homeschool. God bless you on your journey! Hang tough. And thank you for your review of The Good and Beautiful!
New subscriber and first time homeschooler here! I’ve been binging your videos 😬 and this one spoke to me big time when you mentioned doing what you’re being called to do!
My 1st grader and 2 year old are home with me all day. I had been feeling such a strong tug before my daughter would have been physically entering public school to keep her home. It was something I couldn’t ignore and after being very active sitting in at school board meetings to understand bigger pictures and direction they were going in, I knew God was leading me to homeschool. I couldn’t ignore it and everyday I’m grateful for making that decision to go for it.
We are still trying to find our way in this new territory but I trust we will find our groove. Your reasons are almost all of mine plus some with the state of this world right now. I SO appreciate you 💛.
Thank you for sharing your heart. I could sense your emotions through this video and had such a connection with your fears and reasons. I have been wrestling with this "calling" and we have decided to start our homeschool journey the next school year!!! This is such a SCARY process and so many unknowns but we are excited and I look forward to diving into all your great advice. Thank you for encouraging all us new homeschool moms.
Thank you!! I needed this, I've been feeling the pull/call since my first was born 7 years ago and with way our life has changed a financial reason has actually opened the door and even though business is poor my heart is so full and happy. I agree with almost every single point, I must remember to write them down so I can also look back at them. I wrote to my 2 kids schools today letting them know our plans and we aren't coming back next term. Bless you and your family!
I love what your doing ,Thank you for being Raw & honest!
I been homeschooling both of my kids for a year now. & Its Great!
Thanks again...
Yes, answer that call! It’s a blessing to be a homeschool mama. Preparation in life in a big motivation for me too.
I wouldn’t change it❤️
Dream. Achieve. Repeat ❤️❤️
Im so proud of you for sharing and continuing to honor God!
We are on the same page as Sisters in Christ!
I have found that when we forge forward in fear and trembling, uncertain about whether or not what we have decided is right, if it truly is right, GOD STEPS IN TREMENDOUSLY!!!! HIS SUPPORT IS INCREDIBLE!!! YOU find yourself on the other side not even knowing HOW? But we know how.. GOD LITERALLY CARRIES YOU IN HIS ARMS! HE TAKES OVER! Man I have a ton of testimonies where God JUST TOOK OVER !!! I AM SO GRATEFUL!
You made the right decision and you are BRAVE and amazing! I only have one child and I thought it would be easy but I am realizing that it has nothing to do with the number but the motive behind it all and that is exactly what God looks into and support. Thank you so much for the idea, I know them by heart but writing them down sounds great. I also saw Bonnie's video where she advises that you write down your vision.
God bless you and your family! I only found your channel yesterday and I have been binging on your videos. I am so motivated, thank you so much! Love from South Africa!
Thank you for sharing. I'm feeling the tug on my heart for the same and similar reasons. I have 4 children, 1 in school and I just feel the stress of always being on the go and feeling like the time we have together in not quality. Even though my oldest does well in school we miss each other so much and there seems to be such little time to be a kid and be together. I'm terrified of the decision. I find encouragement in your channel because I feel the same and have 4 children and feel unqualified. Thank you.
Katie Goff you can do it! Change isn’t always bad!
It’s definitely an Answer to the Call!!
When we made the decision to homeschool I felt such a peace, I’m thankful for this opportunity to homeschool and raise my babies in a safe environment!!
Thank you for speaking from your heart, even though this was 2 years ago. Your channel is such a HUGE blessing.
Just seeing this video for the first time. My kids have never been to a public/private school. We have homeschooled since day 1. But I needed this. Today was one of those days. This video just popped up on my feed and God knew this was exactly what I needed. Honestly, this was the best video I've ever seen on YT. Thank you Ashlee, so much for all you do.
Thanks for posting! I THOROUGHLY enjoy your videos! I appreciate you taking the time to post videos to help people like me who just started homeschooling out.
Thank you for sharing. I received encouragement from this video. As I look to begin our homeschool year this August I have started to get a bit afraid. It is such a big decision but because of many of the reasons that you have listed I am pushing forward. If God leads me to it, he will lead me through it and more than anything I need to be spirit-led first. So thanks again and keep sharing
Milk n Honey amen!!!
Thank you for this. My son is only 2, but I am already feeling the tug on my heart you mention. Your video is giving me more courage to begin this road in a few years.
I absolutely love this video! We are just wrapping up our first year of homeschooling and I have watched your videos since my beginning- I was originally inspired because you were also using sonlight, I still leave your videos feeling inspired and uplifted! It’s been so rewarding for me to look back to when I felt that scary pulling on my heart and we took the plunge into homeschooling. It’s been such a memorable year and we are continuing for next year! Thank you for sharing your heart. I always feel like your videos are genuine and I appreciate that and love that about your channel 💕
I love! Love! Love! That you shared your fears with your viewers. I had the same fears as you. I had homeschooled my two kids when they were younger, but because of fear I sent them to school. This year I decided to homeschooling them after they spent 5 years in traditional schools. It has been a scary choice and I am still struggling with my fears. To hear you voice similar fears gives me courage to stay the course. Thank you for being brave. :)
I made the decision to home school 7 years ago. I was a public school teacher and staunch supporter of public schools in my state. As a SAHM, I was PTO president. Then God told me to home school. I felt all of those feelings you felt. You will never regret doing it. These are our kids and it doesn't really matter what other people think. My husband was on board and he sees the many wonderful fruits of this way of life and that is all that matters! :) God Bless you and your family!
Thank you so much for sharing this video! I am a former public elementary school teacher turned homeschooling momma. My list of why we decided for me to quit my job and bring our 5 year old home after her public school pre-k year is VERY similar. I can’t wait to see your part 2 video.
Oak Roots and Arrows I love hearing from former ps teachers! Thankyou for sharing
Hi Ashley!! Aww! We are finishing our first year. I know that watching your channel has encouraged me and guided me in so many ways. I thank God for you! God is leading us to try public school again. I guess when we said:”year by year” we meant it. There have been some amazing conversations and experiences with my girls this year, I really found it hard to get “adult” time and self-care into my days. Blessings!!
All wonderful reasons! I was ready to cry right before you started with the reasons calling mothers to obey the call to do what they could if they felt the Lord speaking to them! My mother really regrets focusing so obsesively on housework and she felt she lost one of my brothers to drugs and really bad influences that ended up causing a lot of heartache and destruction in his life. Now, he has been redemed for almost two decades but the consecuences of that lifestyle are still there. So yes! Thank you for making this video and for calling us to ponder on building the foundations of our children.
Esmeralda Ramírez your poor mother, addiction is a terrible disease. I pray she doesn’t blame herself anymore!
Esmeralda Ramírez What does it look like to be addicted to housework? With homeschooling so feel like every other spare moment in my day consists of cleaning and food prep and cooking. There is far less margin in the day for a homeschooling mom and I feel like she shouldn’t have to let things go because of it. What did addiction look like for your mom? Jut tying to get validation that I am not addicted to housework! I never slack in my routine but ai don’t want that to appear like addiction, though I know I prefer my house cleaner than some others. But I feel it is unfair to think I can’t keep up my standard of clean just because I homeschool and have less time during the day in which to complete the tasks. I do a lot of “stealing” time to get it done. Less sleep, etc.
Tara Tags I didn't mean she was addicted to housework. I meant she was so focused on her house that she did not take the time to be close to her boys when they were teens. So she feels she placed a higher priority to her house and to be a big support for her extended family instead of building a strong relationship with her own children nor on taking them to church at all during those years when the world's tide could influence them for the bad.
That totally makes sense - I think all of us will look back in regret about some things in our lives (kind of how older women seem to romanticize the baby stage the farther away from it they get), but mostly I think we need to trust God that he is enabling us to do the best we can while balancing relationships and sometimes our sanity!
Most of these reasons are the reasons I've decided to pull my daughter out of school halfway through this year! Even though she was in a Christian school, we still saw things that made us want to homeschool, and with Covid not giving her the experience we wanted at school, we pulled her out and it has been amazing. My friend who has always homeschooled her kids sent me one of your videos, and I have been catching up! Thank you for your content :)
These are wonderful reasons! Thank you so much for sharing. This was our first year and I can say most of my reasons are similar to yours. I have two olders that went through public school and my two youngest have spent some time there but what a world of difference a year has made. So I firmly believe your reasons are excellent and I truly wish I was in a better place in my life earlier to pull my oldest two out! Can’t wait for part 2
Abbigail Gutierrez I feel the same way! My younger two never knew any other way, and I’m so glad!
Love this video !! This relates to me so much ! We actually started to homeschool a year ago and I gave up not feeling adequate enough . I’ve felt this every day since then and have ordered the good and the beautiful to start homeschooling our four children again !! Thanks for all the videos very helpful!! Here’s to raising healthy happy children !!
My oldest son (currently 7) is in public school now and I've felt a deep desire to homeschool ever since summer started. Every reason you listed is exactly why I want to homeschool. It feels very overwhelming right now to make the decision, thinking I can't live up to the task. I have a younger son who's almost 4 and I would be doing preschool homeschool with him as well. Would you mind saying a prayer for me as our family transitions to this soon? Love this video and thank you so much for sharing!
Its wonderful that you have shared your heart with us! Most of everything thing on your list was/is on our list as well plus a few more. My first homeschool youtuber to watch was Nicci from Afarmhousefull, theunlikelyhomeschool and Jamarill Stuart at large family table.They helped me through all the how tos when I couldn't find the answer from others I knew personally. And I know many a new homeschooling moms will find your channel equally helpful! I believe sharing our hearts shows the world the strength of the Lord and the work he can do even in our weakness. Thanks for sharing, and what wonderful mom you are being for your children!! Blessings to you!
With everything that is unfolding before our very eyes.. today. 2023
Homeschool is the best way ❤️
Thankyou so much for sharing! It was that tug that led me to finally do it.. it has only been about 2.5 months and I don’t regret it one bit. It is beyond the academics, although TGATB taught my child to read in less than two weeks. He was always ready, just needed the one on one. This journey already has been so fruitful and I look forward to many more years!!
I just came across this video of yours and I am so grateful that I did! I have been homeschooling my 5 year old son this year for his TK year, have been struggling with my reasons and considering sending him to school next year and wow you have encouraged me so much! Thank you for being real and sharing your heart with us all.
Thank you for being courageous to share your story. I am transitioning my kids out of public school after school is out next week and I felt like your video was a great reminder from God that me and my husband are on the right track. Thank you so much for sharing your story!
Natasha Boclear so thankful I could encourage you!!!!
I have been binge watching your videos. Lol. I really needed this. All of those reasons of why are my same thoughts and I feel like so many people don't understand the desire to homeschool. Glad to know that I'm not alone in my heart's desire to homeschool while we have the ability to.
i love this entire video and your reason. I have 3 reasons why I want to start homeschooling but you named obvious some reasons that I never thought out loud and that I will write down because as you were saying them I just thought WOW that is extremely important.
Your courage is amazing! I love your list! I know why I began but on the hard days and when asked, I fumble and forget. We’ve been homeschooling for 9 years and I’ve never thought to do this. Thanks for sharing this with us!
Ashlee this was awesome and really encouraging. I feel many of the same things you did. Especially being led by God and he will always bring great things from obeying him. I really admire your courage and thank you. I really feel God is using you to encourage a mom like me to be brave and follow his leading.
💗💗💗💗💗💗
Elijah De Almeida bless you! This comment made my day! We can walk this in faith together!
Grace and Grit
Im glad it made your day. And that sounds great to take this walk in faith together. I feel like God was making me think of what is my real purpose as a mom. And its so important now in these days we r living in for our children to know God. 💗💗 I hope u had a great mothers day!💜💜
Thank you , I am struggling too, I don't have peace too because I know God wants me to homeschool my girls ( 3yr old and 1.5 yrl old) . Thank you for your support.
I love that you made a list and saved it! I’ve been struggling with whether or not to continue homeschooling, and it’s great to remember why I chose this path.
Your courage is amazing and such a light to me! Thank you for being so open and honest! This has definitely helped support me with my decision.
Same here Ashlee. I want to say also that I don't feel as if their childhood is slipping away, at all. And that's because we are home schooling. My soon to be 5 year old will be in kindergarten next year, with us at home. I'm so excited!! I look forward to those days of early reading with her. If not for home school I would be filled with dread!!!
Hickory Root Farmstead agree!!!
Love❤️ this I pulled my daughter mid 6th grade year because of bullies and the curriculum also I felt she was not in a safe environment so many things I made my decision in a instant its like god just told me♥️😊🙏 just do it XX so i did XX i have thought many times am i doing the right thing and i come to yes we will continue to homeschool 7th grade to ps love your channel 😇😊♥❤️♥♥️♥️i agree with everything you said 😇Amen🙏
I love all your reasons. I’m facing that decision of homeschooling. My son will be in 5th grade next school year and I intend to homeschool for 6th grade until high school. I want to homeschool because he learns differently and at a different pace. That’s one of my main reasons. I have to make a list of more reasons.
Mrs. Perez homeschool is amazing for that!
Our journey to homeschooling was very accidental, but now I literally can't imagine doing life any other way. A lot of the things you've listed have also become reasons why I now continue to homeschool. We're business owners too, so having the flexibility of our schedule is absolutely essential to us having a healthy family life. There's no way we could run our business, and be slaves to the clock with pick up and drop off, and have the kids actually see their amazing Daddy.
thegrasshut so important
This was wonderful! Thank you so much for sharing! It made my heart sing! Looking forward to Part 2.
My oldest kiddo started kindergarten in public school this year. I’ve gone back and forth between homeschooling and public schooling and thought when I put him in school that back and forth would go away. The tug to homeschool has only increased though. I’m currently doing more research on homeschooling and that’s how I came across your video. Your reasonings to HS are exactly in line with my thoughts, thanks for the encouragement to not ignore the tug.
Thank you for sharing this! I'm in tears listening because you're speaking straight to my heart as we decide things for our oldest right now.