Chris Boettcher shared his experience and advice on homeschooling with me
Embracing the Joys and Challenges of Parenting Three Children
When you become a parent of three, life inevitably changes. As a parent, I often get asked about the transition from having two kids to three. Is it chaotic? Does it become unmanageable? Or does it somehow get easier? From my experience, it’s a mix of everything, but mostly, it’s an incredible journey that shapes our lives in ways we never imagined.
Our oldest is nearly six and has become increasingly helpful, while our youngest, born into a bustling household, has adapted remarkably well. Our middle child, our wild card, keeps things lively and unpredictable. Despite the occasional chaos, we’ve managed to find a rhythm that works for us. It helps that our youngest has been a better sleeper than her older brother was at her age. We expected more sleepless nights, but she has surprised us with her adaptability and calm nature.
Balancing family life and running a business from home isn’t always easy, but my wife and I have found a way to support each other. She’s been incredible, balancing the household and taking on the significant task of homeschooling our oldest. Her ability to stay home with our children has been a blessing, providing them with daily stability and attention that is truly priceless.
Having a parent at home during the early years is life-changing. It provides a foundation that no other arrangement can match. Instead of sending our kids to daycare, we’ve made sacrifices to ensure one of us is always there. My wife was a teacher when our first child was born, and after returning to work for a short period, we decided it was best for her to stay home. This decision wasn’t easy and required sacrifices, but the benefits far outweigh the challenges.
Homeschooling has become a significant part of our lives. Our oldest now participates in a homeschool hybrid program, attending school a few days a week while we manage the rest of her curriculum at home. This flexibility allows us to travel, visit family, and maintain her education seamlessly. My wife takes charge of the curriculum, and it’s been incredible to witness our child’s growth and enthusiasm for learning.
Being directly involved in our children’s education allows us to instil our values and ensure they receive a well-rounded education. It’s fascinating to revisit subjects and skills, even at a basic level, and realise the depth of knowledge our children are acquiring. This involvement enriches our lives and keeps us engaged in their learning journey.
While there are good and bad schools everywhere, we chose to take control of our children’s education. By doing so, we can provide them with unique experiences that aren’t confined to a classroom. My ability to work from anywhere offers us the freedom to create lasting memories as a family, integrating learning with life experiences.
Parenting three children is a journey filled with challenges and rewards. It’s about finding balance, making sacrifices, and cherishing the moments that make it all worthwhile. Our decision to homeschool and stay actively involved in our children’s lives has been transformative. It’s a choice that shapes our family dynamic and ensures our children receive the best possible start in life. For us, this journey is not just about education; it’s about building a foundation of love, support, and shared experiences that will last a lifetime.
You can watch the full YouTube clip here