First Day of School Thoughts

First Day of School Thoughts

Today marks the first page of this year’s story, one filled with possibility, growth, and memories yet to be made. Whether this is your first year homeschooling or your tenth, that “first day” feeling never really goes away. This week, take a moment to pause and savor...
A Gentle Start to the New School Year

A Gentle Start to the New School Year

We can hardly believe it! The first official day of the 2025–26 school year is just around the corner, August 14, to be exact, but summer isn’t quite over yet. There’s still time for late-morning pancakes, backyard adventures, afternoon swims, and the kind of slow...
Planning, Prepping, and Dreaming Ahead

Planning, Prepping, and Dreaming Ahead

Dear Cottonwood Families, It’s that time of summer when we start to feel the quiet pull toward fall. The notebooks and planners begin to appear on tables, Pinterest boards fill with new ideas, and we catch ourselves daydreaming about fresh starts. One of my favorite...
Freedom to Explore

Freedom to Explore

Dear Cottonwood Families, One of the greatest gifts of homeschooling is the freedom to explore, to wander, and to follow curiosity wherever it leads. July invites us to step fully into this gift. The longer days and lighter schedules create space for spontaneous...
Summer Learning – Your Way

Summer Learning – Your Way

Dear Cottonwood Families, We’re halfway through June, and summer is stretching out in all its sun-drenched, slow-paced glory. If you’re anything like me, you may find yourself caught between savoring the freedom and wondering whether your kids are “doing enough.” Let...
Starting Summer with Intention

Starting Summer with Intention

Dear Cottonwood Families, Summer has officially arrived, and while our newsletters take on a lighter rhythm in these warmer months, “Kindly, Kara” will still be here every other week with gentle encouragement, helpful tips, and fresh ideas to support your homeschool...