There’s something sacred about learning together at home. Whether you’re a full-time homeschool family or just sitting down after dinner to help with homework, there’s a beauty in showing up—present, patient (most days 😅), and willing to turn the ordinary into something meaningful.
At our house, we try to sprinkle joy over even the most mundane moments. Not every day is magical. Sometimes it’s a slog. And that’s okay too. We don’t try to fake fun when it’s not there—but we do try to find joy wherever we can. Because joy isn’t about circumstance. It’s a choice, and a command. God calls us to be joyful in everything—in the easy and in the hard.
That includes math tests.
And spelling lists.
And phonics sheets.
We’ve made unit assessments something Lucy actually looks forward to—because on “test days,” we have pancake quizzes! Every correct answer earns a bite of pancake. It’s lighthearted and silly, but it works. It turns a potentially stress-filled moment into one of giggles, syrup, and celebration. And of course—yes, she gets the pancakes either way! The bites are just a sweet (literal) reward for effort and courage.
I also love that, because we’re at home, Lucy gets to learn her way. That might mean stretching like a cat, doing splits on the floor, or balancing upside down like she’s auditioning for Cirque du Soleil while reciting spelling words. And you know what? She remembers them that way.
Learning at home lets her wiggle, wonder, question, sing, snack, and stretch—and still grow in knowledge and confidence.
If you’re a parent doing any kind of schoolwork with your child, I want to remind you: you are doing a beautiful thing. The goal isn’t perfection. It’s connection. It’s helping your child learn that learning is not a punishment—it’s a privilege. And yes, some days it might be hard. But with love, creativity, and maybe a few pancakes—you’re planting seeds that will last.
Keep going.
Keep showing up.
And keep the syrup handy. 🥞💛
Raising Light 