Does homeschooling ever really end?

It occurred to me this morning that the only difference in my life with my children now as compared with next month will be the paperwork. I will no longer feel perpetually behind with the paperwork and tracking of lesson progress.

In the early days of our adventure, I tracked our homeschool meticulously. I used all my organization genes (of which there are frankly not many) to document everything that happened every day.

I was terrified of a moment far in the future that someone might ask, “So, did little DoodleOne ever learn to multiply fractions?” I resolved to be ready with the exact day and time, a work sample, and accompanying photo of said smiling child, pencil poised, working to create said work sample. I would have it all and answer any question. I would not let me children down!

After six long years of very long nights spent documenting the school day and just when my husband gave up hope of spending a quiet moment with me ever again, high school hit.

With high school came independence and self-direction for my twins. We still did so much together, but in most things homeschool-related they were leading the charge. It became less and less about my goals and more about their own. They started keeping their own records, albeit they weren’t as detailed – but they were good.

Instead of director and teacher, I shifted to a co-participant role and learned by their side.

That is what will continue next month after graduation.

We spend their entire childhood learning and exploring together in this homeschool life. Can all that way of being with our kids just end when graduation is over?

What do you think?