From Longing to Belonging: How One Spark Ignited The Homeschool Social Collective

For years, I watched my daughter light up whenever she heard her cousin whom attended public school talk about her daddy-daughter dance experience. She was drawn in by the ideas of picking out dresses, getting ready together, and sharing those cherished moments on the dance floor. Every year, she’d ask if there was a similar event for homeschooled students, and each time, I’d have to break her heart by telling her that I couldn’t find one. The disappointment in her eyes tugged at my heart, and I knew something needed to change.

Not long after this realization my older niece, who is a homeschool student, was approaching her senior year, and her and I had a conversation about her concerns in regard to missing out on a traditional prom experience. Those conversations drove home just how many milestone events can slip by without a “formal” school setting. Seeing both my daughter and niece, girls I love so deeply, long for the same experiences their public school friends enjoyed became the final push I needed. It was time to step up and create these moments ourselves.

That’s how the idea for a formal daddy-daughter dance specifically for homeschoolers was born. It was about more than just having a fun evening, it was about celebrating our daughters with all the sparkle, laughter, and memory-making they deserve. Yet, the excitement didn’t stop there. I realized my son also deserved a unique bonding experience that would allow him to learn and practice chivalry in a special way. Why not host a mother-son dance as well? So many people talk about traditional manners and gentlemen are fading away. I don’t want that for our son. I want to give our son the chance to show kindness and respect in a setting that celebrates biblical, family, and community values.

What started as a simple desire for my daughter has evolved into a passion for planning and curating events that enrich the homeschool journey. From daddy-daughter dances to mother-son get-togethers, prom celebrations, and so much more, I’ve realized that homeschoolers can, and should, enjoy every rite of passage that sparks joy and builds character.

Now, I’m thrilled to extend an invitation to you and your children. Let’s dress up, dance the night away, gather, and create treasured memories that prove homeschool students don’t have to miss a thing. Sometimes, all it takes is one spark, one dream of a little girl, to ignite a flame that brings new life and excitement to our entire homeschool community. I hope you’ll join us in making these moments count. We can’t wait to celebrate and grow with you!