We are a home educating family from Somerset, UK. We have been home educating since April 2004 and even with initial ups and downs, we have never really looked back. Over time our parenting and educational views have changed and now we could never imagine sending our children to school unless it was at their request. We like to go on outings, visit friends and listen to music and would love to have as gentle a life as possible.
Our family consists of:
Mum
40+ (eeek!!) SAHM who does the main bulk of childcare/educating and a quater share of housework. I like music, art, reading, long walks, computer time and blogging.
Dad
Dh started up his own business in 2010. He is busy and life is good. He likes all things DIY, hands-on, building and gardening. He is a fabulous help at home and does waaaaay more than his share of housework.
N
Oldest ds, aged 28. He was home educated for a couple of years but otherwise spent most of his time in school. He has ADHD/ODD/Dyspraxia. He has finished his Uni degree with a 2:1 honours degree. He ended up staying in the city where he went to uni and now works in a restaurant management.
A
Oldest dd, 27, was home educated at home from 7 through to 16, then studied animal care and art, and had different jobs. She has Diabetes, Dyslexia and processing issues. She loves all things animals and arty, she is is a fabulous crocheter has an eye for beautiful things. She was married in 2018 and gave us our beautiful grandbabies in November 2019 and August 2022
E
Middle dd, 23, was home educated the whole of her school-years. She went off to college for A levels, and is about to graduate from her uni degree. She has battled past Selective Mutism, processing challenges etc and is an impressively confident and able young lady. She's currently working a part-time job while she makes her plans
S
Middle ds, 18 went to secondary school at 11. After achieving the grades for his chosen course he attended college which finished this year, and is now working full time.
Lucas
Youngest ds aged 12. He climbs, runs, jumps and never stops. He is full of imagination and always has great games going on. He is diagnosed with PDA/ADHD and has dyslexia though the diagnosis hasn't defined his abilities or excused his behaviours. He has been home educated for 7 years now, benefiting from numerous outdoor education facilities, engineering workshops and hands-on science. He is progressing in his schoolwork at his own slow but steady pace and is improving every day.
Hannah
Youngest dd in now 9 years old - oh my goodness, how!!!!! She is a lovely little thing. I am loving seeing her personality continue to develop each day. She is always happy despite several setbacks and minor developmental delays and some ongoing concerns. She is clever and kind but also laid back and unhurried. She loves to do her work, loves animals and enjoys singing and dancing.
Pets
We also have two cats; Harley who 7 and is fickle and skittish, nervous but loving; and Lily who is also 7 and is a fluffball of crazy, not so amiable but loves to play.