Why You Won’t See “First Day of School” Pics from Me

It’s that time of year again—your feed is likely filling up with sweet smiles, fresh backpacks, and “First Day of ___ Grade” signs. And while I truly love seeing other families celebrate new seasons, you won’t be seeing a “first day of school” photo from me.

Not because we didn’t start school.

Not because it’s not special.

But because we do things a little differently around here—and I’m finally at peace with that.

As a homeschool family, we follow a rhythm that works for us—not the school district calendar. We homeschool year-round, taking breaks as needed, often unplanned and completely led by life. Whether it’s a stretch of beautiful weather that calls us outside, a family need that requires our focus, or just a mental reset for all of us—we’ve learned to lean into the flexibility homeschooling offers.

Some weeks we dive deep into our curriculum. Other weeks, learning looks like gardening, baking, building forts, and asking questions that take us on unexpected rabbit trails.

And to be honest? One of the biggest reasons I’m skipping the “first day” photo is because of the pressure.

The pressure to perform.

To have the perfect outfit, the perfect lighting, the Pinterest-worthy sign.

To prove that we’re doing enough, that we’re legit, that we’re keeping up.

But I’m not here to keep up.

I’m here to raise whole-hearted kids who know how to learn, love, and live deeply.

And while there will be photos—because this mama loves to capture memories—you might not see them all. And definitely not because a date on the calendar says I have to.

If you’re feeling the weight of back-to-school perfection, I just want to gently remind you:

✨ You don’t have to perform.

✨ You don’t have to prove anything.

✨ Your kids are learning—whether or not you post about it.

We’re still doing the work.

We’re still showing up.

And that’s more than enough.