The two things you need for a successful homeschool are a vision and accountability.
When I first began homeschooling I read The Charlotte Mason Companion by Karen Andreola, and it pointed to a homeschool routine that was life giving and fun.
She described days of cozily cuddling up to read engaging stories together, memorizing heart warming poetry while sipping tea, and learning about the most beautiful paintings.
She extolled the merits of time together in nature, and this exploration gave me a vision for a homeschool that was more like a home and less like a school.
She offered the maxim that every child needs "something or someone to love, something to do, and something to think about. This helped us shape a home environment filled with beautiful books, beloved pets and siblings, and ways to help. Our children grew up knowing that their contributions mattered and that they were a valuable part of our family.
Our homeschool wasn't just a means of educating, but it was a life that was both enjoyable and encouraged deep thinking, virtue, and diligence.
But this didn't happen by accident,
I had great mentors throughout my home school years who helped me develop habits of reading aloud to my children, caring for pets and plants, and diligently loving my family.
I had a vision and I had accountability partners and this helped me raise children who love us and love God, and who are making the world a better place.