What Happened When Family Comes Visit While We Homeschool
So as a homeschooling mum who has chosen a non structure way this year, I was delighted to welcome my cousin from Canada as I saw an opportunity to reconnect with a family member I haven’t seen in a while (distance, life and all that jazz ;)) however there is an extra extraness in having her with us, it’s magical believe me! Not only did I see the kids warming up to her instantly (ok it took longer for our 2 years old but that’s the norm right?) but the connection, the socialisation, the learning, the confidence has blossomed in a way I would have never realised.
I have a special thought for all those kids who are due to start school this week and I have a bit of a grin on my face ( I am sorry, don’t mean to be cruel ya know) but it’s a great opportunity for me to take them places without having unleashed crowds around 😉
So What Happened When Family Comes Visit While We Homeschool?
Do we need to stop homeschooling? Nope! Homeschooling is continuous learning, not like school, when the kids finish their day they are so happy to come back home to get snacks and homework hihihi nope, not on my watch! homeschooling is subtle, the kids learn continuously without even noticing! That’s true, well I do have a few books they need to kind of sit down to write and what not but still nothing like a school setting! Anyhow we are here to discuss the what do I do when family comes visit, part so here is what we done!
One of the greatest joys of homeschooling is the freedom to blend learning with real-life experiences. This week has been extra special for our family here in Ireland—we’ve welcomed my cousin over from Canada! She’s a young adult finishing up her studies to become a successful veterinarian, and it’s been such a blessing to see her connect so naturally with our three homeschooled kids.
Building Bonds Across Generations 🌍💞
Even though they had never met before, the kids instantly felt comfortable around her. Age differences, backgrounds, and miles between us didn’t matter—within hours they were laughing, sharing stories, and sketching together. One evening, while I was putting our two-year-old to bed, I peeked outside to find them sitting on the porch with crayons and a sketch pad, happily drawing each other. Pure homeschooling magic!
A Day Trip to Trim Castle 🏰
Of course, we had to show her a bit of Ireland too! We took a road trip to Trim Castle
in County Meath—the largest Norman castle in Ireland. It’s a place full of history and imagination fuel for the kids. Movie fans might recognise it as one of the main filming locations for Braveheart. Fun fact: Mel Gibson himself was back at Trim Castle just two weeks ago!
Standing among those ancient stone walls gave us the perfect chance to chat about Irish history, medieval life, and of course a little movie trivia too. Learning truly does come alive when you’re out exploring!
Learning Through Family 💡
The kids have been soaking up every minute with their Canadian cousin. She has such patience with them, and her passion for animals has sparked some incredible conversations. My little ones were fascinated listening to her talk about dogs from a “vet’s point of view.” It’s a whole new way for them to see and appreciate the pets they already love so much.
Yesterday has reminded me how much children can learn from simply being around different people—family, friends, and visitors from all over the world. Socialising isn’t limited to classrooms; sometimes the most meaningful lessons happen around the kitchen table, in the garden, or while exploring a castle together.
What’s Next? 🌦️
We’ll be checking the Irish weather (as always!) before deciding on our next adventure. Maybe another monument, maybe a museum… either way, the learning continues. Stay tuned for more updates from our homeschooling journey!
Feeling Grateful 🌸
This has truly been a “magic full of learning” week. I feel so blessed that homeschooling gives us the flexibility to spend this kind of quality time with family, while also keeping the kids’ curiosity and creativity alive.
Do you have family abroad who’ve inspired your kids? I’d love to hear about it in the comments!
