One of the obvious, but often overlooked, fundamentals of homeschooling is that once you decide to homeschool, you become a teacher. Most of us begin by thinking that in order to give our children the best education we need to buy the best curricula. However, in all your years of education, did you ever think to yourself, “I love biology because of that great curriculum!” or “I love writing because of that great writing guide!” Chances are, we were never even aware of a curriculum. We loved a subject because of a teacher who inspired us. Chances are, it was a teacher who really loved the subject, brought it to life, and included you in his or her excitement. Also, the teacher may have really liked you, but that part is easy to replicate at home—we already like our students. One might say we love them enough to give our lives for them. In deciding to homeschool you’ve already done that part.

Today, I want to challenge you to change your thinking slightly. Choosing a good curriculum is important, but it’s only a small step.* The big step is to become the very best teacher you can be.