Our “Why”

 When we made the decision to adopt our children from Bulgaria, we knew we were stepping into a journey that would be both beautiful and complex. Adoption itself comes with layers of transition—new language, new culture, new routines, and new relationships. As we’ve begun this chapter together, one of the most important decisions we’ve made as a family is to homeschool.

This choice didn’t come lightly. We recognize and respect the many excellent schools and educators in our community. But for our children, at this specific moment in their lives, homeschooling offers something uniquely suited to their needs: time, attention, and space to catch up, adjust, and thrive.

One of our primary goals is helping them get academically caught up to their American peers. Educational systems vary widely from country to country, and gaps are inevitable. Rather than placing them immediately into a traditional classroom where they might feel overwhelmed or behind, homeschooling allows us to meet them exactly where they are. We can assess their current levels without pressure, fill in foundational gaps, and move forward at a pace that builds confidence instead of frustration.

Equally important is the opportunity for focused one-on-one attention. In a homeschool environment, learning isn’t one-size-fits-all. Each child can receive individualized instruction tailored to their strengths, challenges, and learning style. If something doesn’t click right away, we can slow down. If they excel in a subject, we can accelerate. This flexibility is something that’s hard to replicate in a classroom setting with many students and limited time.

Beyond academics, homeschooling also supports emotional bonding and attachment. Our children are adjusting not only to a new educational system, but to a new family and way of life. Being together throughout the day allows us to build trust, strengthen relationships, and create a sense of security. Learning happens best when a child feels safe, seen, and supported—and homeschooling gives us the ability to nurture that environment consistently.

We’re also able to integrate life skills, cultural learning, and language development into our daily routine. Whether it’s working on English proficiency, exploring American customs, or honoring and maintaining connections to their Bulgarian heritage, homeschooling allows learning to extend far beyond textbooks.

This season of homeschooling may not be forever, and we remain open to reevaluating what’s best for our children as they grow and settle into their new lives. But right now, it feels like the right bridge—a way to gently guide them from where they’ve been to where they’re going.

At its heart, our decision is about giving our children the strongest possible start in their new home. It’s about patience over pressure, connection over comparison, and meeting them with the care and intentionality they deserve.

And for our family, that begins at home.