Surviving Week 1 of Homeschool Pre-K

We did it, week one of homeschool Pre-K is officially in the books. And wow, what a week it was. Honestly, it felt a little like running a marathon: tiring, challenging, and full of moments where I wasn’t sure we’d make it to the finish line. But then, tucked inside those long days, were the sweetest little reminders of why we’re doing this. Watching your child’s mind grow, seeing their curiosity unfold, and realizing you get a front-row seat to it all is something special I’ll never take for granted.

The Realities We Faced

This week wasn’t without its hurdles. Our two-year-old came down with a nasty respiratory bug the kind that has been going around everywhere lately. Juggling lessons, keeping the house somewhat in order, and caring for a sick little one felt overwhelming at times. There were moments when I wondered if I had bit off more than I could chew. But the thing is, homeschooling gives you the flexibility to pause, regroup, and still keep learning in ways that matter. And that truth carried me through.

Lessons Beyond the Books

We started the week with a beautiful schedule, full of plans and structure. And yet, right away, we learned that sometimes life takes precedence. For example, when opening week of dove season rolled around, Stetson and his daddy took the time to get outside together instead of sticking to the worksheet list. And you know what? That was okay actually, it was better than okay.

Because what I’m learning (already, just one week in) is that homeschooling is so much more than a checklist. It’s not about rushing through tasks just to say they’re done. It’s about life woven into learning. And when Dad has time to be present, which around here can be rare, we grab those moments with both hands. Hunting, exploring, or just being together outside creates lessons that no book could ever teach.

Evenings on the Farm

One of the unexpected highlights of our week was the time we spent outside at the farm. The evenings have been cooling off, and we found ourselves spending hours out there, soaking in the peace that only wide-open skies can bring. The kids ran, played, asked questions about everything they saw, and it reminded me that education doesn’t only happen at a table or desk.

Stetson doesn’t even realize he’s learning when he’s helping check cattle or watching the sun dip below the horizon, but he is. And these are the things I hope he remembers: family, land, and the simple joy of being outside.

Our Favorite Moments

Of course, we did manage to keep up with our school rhythm, too. We worked through our letter chart, practiced the days of the week, and checked the calendar each morning. But Stetson’s absolute favorite part was singing the “What’s the Weather?” song and picking the weather for the day. It quickly became his thing he jumped right into that role with excitement. Maybe we’ve got a future weatherman on our hands! And then there was his first day of school photo. When I asked him what he wanted to be when he grew up, without hesitation he said, “A farmer like Papa and a cattle rancher.”

Looking Back and Looking Forward

So, how do I sum up week one? It was hard. It was messy. It stretched me in more ways than one. But it was also beautiful, full of laughter, discovery, and moments that reminded me why we chose this path in the first place. Homeschooling is a lot of work, but it’s also an incredible gift to slow down, to be present, and to teach in ways that matter for our family.

As we step into week two, I’m hopeful. Hopeful for a little less sickness, a little more routine, and maybe even some new memories that will surprise me along the way. If week one taught me anything, it’s this: perfection isn’t the goal. Presence is. And that’s exactly where I want to be.

Here’s to week two, may it be just as memorable, and maybe a touch less tiring.