Planning with Purpose 

I’m a daughter of God, striving to build a home centered on Jesus Christ and His gospel. Choosing homeschooling for our future children is a decision rooted in prayer, reflection, and inspiration. Like many, I spent 12 years in public school, while my fiancé was homeschooled, graduating at 15. When we first met, I couldn’t help but wonder: which path is better? 

His early graduation isn’t typical, even for homeschoolers—his siblings, also homeschooled, each followed unique paths—but it gave him a head start. He took college classes before serving a full-time mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, then transferred to a four-year university. Now, he’s nearing completion of his Electrical Engineering degree, driven by a curiosity that never seems to fade. 

I graduated early too—at 16—mostly due to personal circumstances and a determination to finish quickly. I was young for my grade and would’ve graduated at 17 otherwise. I jumped into community college right after. Comparing our experiences has been eye-opening and has shaped my vision for our future children’s education. 

What We’ve Learned from Learning 

In public school, I often memorized facts just to pass tests, forgetting them soon after. My goal was good grades, not deep understanding. My fiancé, though, is different. He’s always asking how and why things work, diving into topics with genuine interest. I sometimes feel less curious by comparison and wonder: Is that just me, or did public school dull my love of learning? 

I used to adore school as a young child, but by middle and high school, it felt like a system to survive, not a place to grow. Burnout set in, and I lost the spark I once had. My fiancé’s homeschooling experience, though, nurtured his drive to learn, and I want that for our kids. 

The Teacher in Me 

From kindergarten, I dreamed of being a teacher. I’d make my mom play “school” with me endlessly. School was a haven when home wasn’t, thanks to kind, supportive teachers. I wanted to be that person for other kids. But now, I realize: why not pour that passion into my own children first? If I can create a nurturing home where they feel safe, seen, and supported, why send them away for eight hours a day? 

My experience as a classroom helper and lesson planner gives me a head start. I’ve worked with kids across different ages and subjects, which I think will help me tailor lessons to my children’s needs. Homeschooling will involve a broader range of topics and levels, but I’m ready to embrace the challenge. 

The “Weird Kids” Question 

People often ask, “Won’t homeschooling make your kids weird?” or “How will they socialize?” Honestly, if “normal” means chasing peer approval, partying, or using crude language, I’m happy to raise “weird” kids who stand apart. I want them to be confident in their values, grounded in our faith, and kind to others. 

I’m an introvert—my fiancé lovingly calls me a “hermit”—and I’ve always been anxious about public speaking or crowds. He’s outgoing and confident, despite being homeschooled. I wonder if public school dampened my confidence or if it’s just my personality. Either way, I believe homeschooling can help our kids thrive socially through church activities, co-ops, and community involvement, while staying true to who they are. 

Letting Kids Be Kids 

One of my biggest reasons for homeschooling is simple: I want our kids to have a childhood. I don’t see the need to prepare them for a 9-to-5 life when they’re still young. There’s time for that later. I want them to learn, but also to play, explore, get bored, and discover their own interests. I want them to be curious—not just about getting the right answers, but about the world God created. I want them to grow up self-sufficient, creative, and proactive, with a strong foundation in our LDS faith. 

Preparing Now: Easing the Learning Curve 

Homeschooling will be a sacred journey, and I’m researching now to make it smoother. I am currently 28 weeks pregnant with my first child, so it will be years before I really dive head into homeschooling. Here are my early steps: 

Weaving in Scripture Study: The Church’s Come, Follow Me program, focusing on the Doctrine and Covenants in 2025, is a blessing for teaching scripture. Its activity ideas and printables for children will make gospel learning engaging and joyful. 

Finding Faith-Aligned Curriculums: I’m exploring programs like The Good and the Beautiful and Latter-day Learning, which weave LDS values into learning, emphasizing family, faith, and character alongside academics. 

Leveraging My Experience: My time as a classroom helper and lesson planner gives me confidence in creating engaging lessons. I’m brushing up on strategies for teaching multiple subjects and age groups. 

Building a Support Network: I’m connecting with LDS homeschooling groups online and through our ward to learn from experienced parents. Co-ops and Come, Follow Me group activities will help with socialization and shared learning. 

Gathering Resources: I’m compiling books like The Well-Trained Mind by Susan Wise Bauer, Teaching from Rest by Sarah Mackenzie, and A Thomas Jefferson Education by Oliver DeMille, which align with fostering leadership and curiosity—values central to our faith. 

Starting Small: I’m experimenting with educational activities, like reading to younger relatives or using “Come, Follow Me” printables, to practice and build confidence. 

A Testimony of New Beginnings 

Homeschooling feels like a divine opportunity to give our children more time together as a family, a love for learning, and an education rooted in our faith. I know that Heavenly Father has a plan for my children, and that through resources like Come, Follow Me and prayerful preparation, I can align their learning with His will. I know the gospel of Jesus Christ is true, and that by teaching in a home filled with love, my children will grow closer to Him. I’m excited to begin this journey, trusting in God’s guidance. 

If you’re considering homeschooling or have felt the Spirit guide you, I’d love to hear your story. Let’s grow in faith together.