In our 8th year of homeschooling, I should have started the new school year down by now right? That transition back to the school year after lazy summer days should be smooth. My back to school picture should show how perfectly excited we are all to be back in the swing of things.

Do you remember the scene in Field of Dreams where Kevin Costner is walking through a corn field and hears a voice telling him “build it and he will come?” It’s one of the most memorable lines in the movie, although it is often adapted to build it and they will come. For me, that line, regardless of how it is worded, captures our homeschooling journey and family support.

When we began homeschooling over 8 years ago, my home seemed to fit our needs for teaching math, English, history, and even science. When our oldest was in 8th grade, the reality of teaching upper-level sciences at home hit. While we had been schooling for years, I was afraid that my house was not really set up for chemistry and biology labs. Elementary science at the counter didn't seem as daunting as our soon-to-be foray into dissection and chemical compounds. And, to be honest, I wasn't entirely sure I was capable of recreating all the science labs. (Don't mention this to my high school science teacher, but my lab partner completed most of the actual lab processes while I did the lab write up and report). I knew that now I would approach science very differently with my children.

It's so exciting to see many families choosing the homeschool their children. As a homeschooling mom of many years and a HomeWorks by Precept Consultant, I have many parents asking for some tips for getting started. Here are my top seven tips for newbie homeschooling parents.

At the beginning of the school year, the day our curriculum comes in is called “Box Day”. But today is also “Box Day”. Today we are officially done with school and now it is time to “Box” the school year.

It’s that time of year again when most of us are wrapping up one school year and gearing up for the next. Even if you school year-round, you’re likely to have a some downtime while the kids enjoy the outdoors. Use that time to declutter your school space.

Kentucky is one of the easier states to comply with homeschool law. There are no mandatory test requirements, no requirements to be under an umbrella school, and no requirements to have your curriculum approved. It is important, however, to comply with other laws and requirements.

I am frequently asked the question, “Why in the world do you homeschool?” and the question is generally followed by, “I could never do that! I don’t have the patience!" or "You just don’t know my kids!" or "You must be so organized!” Inside my brain, I smile and think about this “loaded” question!

Mothering is a gift from God. Whether our children come to us naturally or through special circumstances, God gives us an instinct and a bond that is hard to describe, and it is strong and beautiful. We experience a quiet joy and a tender need to help our children in their growth. God created us to teach and nurture them.

We live, learn and serve in our community. For me, it makes sense to include community resources into my support network. These community resources will look different from city to city and from family to family. I have learned that even within my family, my children’s different needs and personalities means I tap into different community resources for them.