As a homeschooling mom and an author, my days are a delicate dance of lesson plans, writing deadlines, and the unpredictable rhythm of family life. It’s a balance that requires creativity, resilience, and a good sense of humor—all of which have profoundly shaped my writing.
Finding the Balance
Balancing homeschooling and writing isn’t easy, but it’s deeply rewarding. My mornings usually begin with teaching my children everything from math and science to art and literature. The afternoons are often spent guiding independent projects, driving to co-op classes, or heading to jiu-jitsu lessons. My writing hours—often squeezed into the quiet evenings or early mornings—become a sacred space where I channel the day’s inspiration.
This schedule demands flexibility. Some days, the scales tip more toward being a teacher, and other days, the writer in me takes center stage. The key is giving myself grace to adjust and embracing the fluid nature of both roles.
Inspiration from Real Life
Homeschooling has a way of breathing life into my stories. Teaching my children has given me a front-row seat to their boundless imaginations. Their curiosity and enthusiasm often serve as the spark for new ideas. Whether it’s a question about how a caterpillar becomes a butterfly, a request to read a favorite book for the hundredth time, or an insightful observation during a drive to co-op, these moments ignite my creativity and remind me of the magic in everyday life.
Even our trips to jiu-jitsu lessons have provided inspiration. Watching my kids practice discipline, perseverance, and teamwork has influenced how I craft character arcs and relationships in my writing. The martial arts themes in my middle-grade series, Adventures in Oculus, are directly inspired by these experiences, adding depth and action to my storytelling.
For example, the characters in Adventures in Oculus are often inspired by the unique perspectives and unfiltered honesty of my kids. Their love for adventure and their ability to find wonder in the smallest details have influenced how I craft my protagonists and the worlds they inhabit.
Lessons in Discipline and Patience
Homeschooling has taught me discipline and patience, two traits essential for writing. As a teacher, I’ve learned how to break down complex tasks into manageable steps—a skill I often apply to my writing process. Tackling a novel or a blog post becomes less daunting when I approach it one chapter or paragraph at a time.
Patience, too, plays a pivotal role. Just as my children need time to grasp a new concept, my stories need time to grow. Some ideas take days, others take months. Homeschooling has taught me to trust the process and let creativity unfold naturally.
Embracing the Chaos
Life as a homeschooling mom and writer is far from perfect. There are days when the chaos of spilled paint, endless questions, and looming deadlines feels overwhelming. But I’ve learned to see these moments as part of the journey.
The chaos often finds its way into my stories, adding authenticity and depth. The challenges and triumphs of balancing these roles have taught me resilience—a theme that often threads through my characters’ journeys.
Encouragement for Others
If you’re a parent balancing homeschooling, a career, or any other passion, know that you’re not alone. Embrace the imperfections, celebrate the small wins, and give yourself grace. Remember that the lessons you’re teaching your children—and the lessons they’re teaching you—are shaping not only their futures but also your creative work.
For me, homeschooling and writing are two sides of the same coin. Both require imagination, perseverance, and a willingness to grow. Together, they’ve helped me craft stories that reflect the beauty and complexity of real life—and for that, I’m endlessly grateful.
