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Teaching from Rest: A Homeschooler's Guide to Unshakable Peace 2.0 Edition
112 pages, Paperback
Published January 1, 2018
About the author
Sarah Mackenzie
10 books2,203 followersSarah Mackenzie started Read-Aloud Revival® to help parents make meaningful and lasting connections with their kids through books.
She’s a mother of six, the author of Teaching from Rest and The Read-Aloud Family, and host of the Read-Aloud Revival podcast, which has been downloaded over 16 million times in more than 160 countries.
Her award-winning publishing house, Waxwing Books, makes timeless stories families will love to read aloud.
Sarah makes her home in the Pacific Northwest.
She’s a mother of six, the author of Teaching from Rest and The Read-Aloud Family, and host of the Read-Aloud Revival podcast, which has been downloaded over 16 million times in more than 160 countries.
Her award-winning publishing house, Waxwing Books, makes timeless stories families will love to read aloud.
Sarah makes her home in the Pacific Northwest.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 292 reviews
January 27, 2024
I read this my first year homeschooling in 2017 when my oldest was a first grader and just re-visited it again—that child is now a seventh grader, and he has four younger siblings who are school age, so needless to say, a lot has changed since my first time reading! It was interesting to see my highlights/notes from my first time reading and also see how those notes still resonated with me today, while other passages spoke more strongly to me now. I highly recommend this book for anyone considering homeschooling, or for anyone in the midst of it after many years.
January 19, 2024
“Teaching from Rest” teaches the homeschool mom how to reframe her thoughts regarding educational success. This book is not a how-to teach grammar manual, but a guide for living out your homeschool life with Sabbath rest. It contains healthy doses of both gentle admonishment and encouragement, necessary for both the enthusiastic, over-prepared homeschooler, and the tired, confused homeschooler. (Any longtime homeschooler knows we will have seasons of both.)
August 17, 2025
Reread for the 2026-2027 school year and I found this to be just the reminder and encouragement I need - Sarah gives voice to desires I have for how to educate children, desires that too often fall to the wayside of distraction & busyness. This time around, I was especially struck by the idea of cherishing connection with our children instead of chasing accomplishments in them.
2025
If anyone appreciates a short & sweet book, it's a homeschool mom.
In this concise volume, Sarah Mackenzie offers both gentle encouragement and practical admonishments for the mom seeking to mother and teach from a place of grace & rest. It's very readable and easily feels like sitting down over coffee with a friend.
Parents who seek to teach from the perspective of educating the whole child in both knowledge and virtue will especially appreciate what Sarah has to share on the subject. Though not explicitly stated, Sarah's philosophy is based in the Charlotte Mason philosophy of liberal education for children with a slower and more grace-based mindset.
Though slightly less meticulously edited than other homeschooling books I have read, it's nonetheless encouraging and helpful. I also found myself wondering about her theology in a couple sections, concluding we probably hold differing spiritual beliefs.
2025
If anyone appreciates a short & sweet book, it's a homeschool mom.
In this concise volume, Sarah Mackenzie offers both gentle encouragement and practical admonishments for the mom seeking to mother and teach from a place of grace & rest. It's very readable and easily feels like sitting down over coffee with a friend.
Parents who seek to teach from the perspective of educating the whole child in both knowledge and virtue will especially appreciate what Sarah has to share on the subject. Though not explicitly stated, Sarah's philosophy is based in the Charlotte Mason philosophy of liberal education for children with a slower and more grace-based mindset.
Though slightly less meticulously edited than other homeschooling books I have read, it's nonetheless encouraging and helpful. I also found myself wondering about her theology in a couple sections, concluding we probably hold differing spiritual beliefs.
April 18, 2024
Wonderful book for homeschool moms! Highly highly recommend! It’s very short but full of wisdom. This book felt like a sigh of relief. It’s full of scripture and biblical wisdom for mom who feel like they have to always be checking things off the to do list and are anxious often. Must read for all homeschool moms!
May 8, 2026
One of those life-changing books for an overwhelmed homeschool mom. I read it years ago and recommend it to moms every chance I get!
November 18, 2024
Regardless of educational choice for your family, every home is a school. Our child is 1, but this was an absolute delight.
December 15, 2025
This is a beautiful book, and a lot to ponder. I definitely feel encouraged and challenged to rest in the Lord better in this journey called “homeschooling.” While the author challenged the concept of simply completing a curriculum, I found her to be very balanced.
“We {often} forget that we are dealing with a soul, a precious child bearing the image of God… these children, entrusted to our care, are not mere mortals. When you are performing mommy triage – that is, when you have a crisis moment and have to figure out which fire to put out first – always choose your child. It’s just a math lesson. It’s only a writing assignment. It’s a Latin declension. Nothing more. But your child, he is God’s. And the Almighty put him in your charge for a relationship.”
“We {often} forget that we are dealing with a soul, a precious child bearing the image of God… these children, entrusted to our care, are not mere mortals. When you are performing mommy triage – that is, when you have a crisis moment and have to figure out which fire to put out first – always choose your child. It’s just a math lesson. It’s only a writing assignment. It’s a Latin declension. Nothing more. But your child, he is God’s. And the Almighty put him in your charge for a relationship.”
January 31, 2024
"It is our part to offer what we can, His to finish what we cannot"
"Value academic work because nurturing the intellect is part of what makes us fully human, but don't elevate it beyond its place"
"Take a deep breath, mama. This isn't as dependent on you as you think it is"
Some good words for all of us...not just homeschool moms.
"Value academic work because nurturing the intellect is part of what makes us fully human, but don't elevate it beyond its place"
"Take a deep breath, mama. This isn't as dependent on you as you think it is"
Some good words for all of us...not just homeschool moms.
July 15, 2024
2024: re-read, still 5 stars and a great way to start the school year.
October 17, 2024
What a sweet encouragement for the homeschooling mom! A gentle and easy read.
July 14, 2026
This is such a practical and helpful little book. I will reference it regularly and probably read it every year! Grateful for Sarah Mackenzie’s work.
October 6, 2024
This was a perfect re-read to kick off this school year! I definitely needed the reminder that my children are not projects to be managed, but rather souls to be cultivated.
March 14, 2024
Mom gave me this book to skim and perhaps use as a source for my research paper. (It's titled, Homeschooling vs. Public Schooling: What's Best for the Child?) I did, in fact, end up using it as a source, and I fell in love with it. I decided to continue reading it.
Sarah Mackenzie's writing is beautiful and honest. She communicates great truths with humility and honesty. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I... admit I'm not sure how to apply it to my own life.
I'm not a homeschooling mother (which is the audience of this book). But one day I hope to be. I've learned much from Sarah Mackenzie, and I hope that I'll one day be able to follow these breathtaking, restful principles she sets forth.
I am, however, an older sister. I am a student. In these two roles I found applications. I want to be the diligent student that Mackenzie encourages homeschooling mothers to cultivate. I want to love what I learn. I want to work hard, and I want my goal to be more than just getting done.
I want to be patient and kind to my younger siblings. I want to make time for them. Relationships don't happen overnight. They are the result of inviting your little brothers on a walk with you. Saying yes to playing a game with one of them though you were planning to listen to Pride & Prejudice and have some time for yourself. Restraining harsh words when your youngest brother is showing you something, then showing you something, then showing you something while you're trying to read a really good book. Answering that question thoughtfully and kindly. Relationships are built on that little moment. Those moments build up. But you have to take time for them.
This book has really changed my perspective on things; brought truths to mind that I'd forgotten. Even if you're not a homeschooling mother, this book may be helpful for you.
Sarah Mackenzie's writing is beautiful and honest. She communicates great truths with humility and honesty. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I... admit I'm not sure how to apply it to my own life.
I'm not a homeschooling mother (which is the audience of this book). But one day I hope to be. I've learned much from Sarah Mackenzie, and I hope that I'll one day be able to follow these breathtaking, restful principles she sets forth.
I am, however, an older sister. I am a student. In these two roles I found applications. I want to be the diligent student that Mackenzie encourages homeschooling mothers to cultivate. I want to love what I learn. I want to work hard, and I want my goal to be more than just getting done.
I want to be patient and kind to my younger siblings. I want to make time for them. Relationships don't happen overnight. They are the result of inviting your little brothers on a walk with you. Saying yes to playing a game with one of them though you were planning to listen to Pride & Prejudice and have some time for yourself. Restraining harsh words when your youngest brother is showing you something, then showing you something, then showing you something while you're trying to read a really good book. Answering that question thoughtfully and kindly. Relationships are built on that little moment. Those moments build up. But you have to take time for them.
This book has really changed my perspective on things; brought truths to mind that I'd forgotten. Even if you're not a homeschooling mother, this book may be helpful for you.
December 29, 2023
I think this is a book that any homeschool mom should read yearly (especially right before the new school year) and to briefly review in the middle of the year. Has beautiful reminders of what it’s all about with helpful guidance tips too.
July 27, 2024
I listen to this every year but probably needed it this year more than ever.
July 20, 2026
As a former teacher, now an educational consultant, who has used all kinds of educational options and is homeschooling at this moment, I found some good ideas and strategies in this book. I loved The Read Aloud Family by the same author.
Some of my complaints: it felt like the author was operating from a starting place that she thought I (as the reader) was also operating from. For example, I’m not really a fan of Charlotte Mason methods and I don’t agree with the author’s focus on “truth, goodness, beauty” as the ultimate benchmark or litmus test for learning. (So I think someone new to homeschooling should start with a book on educational philosophies or homeschooling methods first before reading this one.) I also find the brief but negative words about “government schools” to be out of place. There is nothing magical or more Christian about homeschooling families. They are simply families who have chosen one particular educational option out of many. I would argue with the author that a mentally-healthy mother is more important than a “peaceful and happy mother,” and sometimes mentally-healthy doesn’t look exactly like “peaceful and happy,” especially from the outside. Furthermore, there were also some spacing and punctuation errors.
Some of my compliments: I do appreciate the focus on the child’s entire lived experiences as “curriculum” (not simply the textbook), and the idea that we are finite people and God has given us only limited time to steward well, allowing ourselves margin. I value the author’s thoughts on relationships and how inefficient and lavish they are, how our children’s hearts are more important than their brains. And I found some of the strategies like loop scheduling, for example, to be helpful.
Overall, it seems as if the author has a good starting place here, but I think I was expecting something different here.
Some of my complaints: it felt like the author was operating from a starting place that she thought I (as the reader) was also operating from. For example, I’m not really a fan of Charlotte Mason methods and I don’t agree with the author’s focus on “truth, goodness, beauty” as the ultimate benchmark or litmus test for learning. (So I think someone new to homeschooling should start with a book on educational philosophies or homeschooling methods first before reading this one.) I also find the brief but negative words about “government schools” to be out of place. There is nothing magical or more Christian about homeschooling families. They are simply families who have chosen one particular educational option out of many. I would argue with the author that a mentally-healthy mother is more important than a “peaceful and happy mother,” and sometimes mentally-healthy doesn’t look exactly like “peaceful and happy,” especially from the outside. Furthermore, there were also some spacing and punctuation errors.
Some of my compliments: I do appreciate the focus on the child’s entire lived experiences as “curriculum” (not simply the textbook), and the idea that we are finite people and God has given us only limited time to steward well, allowing ourselves margin. I value the author’s thoughts on relationships and how inefficient and lavish they are, how our children’s hearts are more important than their brains. And I found some of the strategies like loop scheduling, for example, to be helpful.
Overall, it seems as if the author has a good starting place here, but I think I was expecting something different here.
January 30, 2025
How can I teach from peace and rest if I am not spending time with the One who gives both?
Takeaways: Teach my children to preserve wonder and perceive truth! Teach them to love and hate what they ought. My children will learn well what they see in my husband and me! Focus on the shaping of souls and ordering of affections in my every day! What will I wish for at the end of the day— what if it didn’t matter as much about what all I got done but rather that I was more intentional about savoring the moments with my kiddos?
Takeaways: Teach my children to preserve wonder and perceive truth! Teach them to love and hate what they ought. My children will learn well what they see in my husband and me! Focus on the shaping of souls and ordering of affections in my every day! What will I wish for at the end of the day— what if it didn’t matter as much about what all I got done but rather that I was more intentional about savoring the moments with my kiddos?
September 17, 2024
At this point, I don't think I need another homeschooling book for a very long time.
This helped me step back from the stress of planning to homeschool and hone into my values and desires for our home life and how those peacefully translate into the education of my kids.
A must read for all beginning homeschool moms.
This helped me step back from the stress of planning to homeschool and hone into my values and desires for our home life and how those peacefully translate into the education of my kids.
A must read for all beginning homeschool moms.
June 30, 2025
Highly recommend to all homeschooling or homeschool-curious mamas! Packed with both big picture encouragement/vision, as well as some great practicals and ways to walk it out. My only complaint were a few small references to some theology differences (claiming the title of “sinner”), but able to look past that and really appreciate the context of this book! Also appreciated that it’s a quick read!!
July 30, 2026
The REREAD! Every subsequent read, I think there is probably not much more I can wring out of this little book and yet how much more He does as He uses it to transform, every time. Never be so proud that you think God cannot continue to take you further up and further in on a subject that you’ve read and pursued for so long. So grateful for these reminders. Year five, we are ready!!
January 15, 2025
The perfect re-read to get me back into the homeschooling spirit (with a calm settled mind) after a very long holiday break. Gem of a book.
May 10, 2025
A must-read for homeschooling families who want to rest in the Lord’s strength. Something I plan on rereading again and again so I keep the priorities in line!
April 11, 2024
Quick uplifting read with sound practical advice.
January 24, 2025
Wow, for such a short book, it's miraculously packed with wisdom and encouragement. The perfect "between semesters" read.
March 5, 2025
Another quick read through one of the most encouraging homeschool books on the market! It reminds me what’s important, to be faithful in the day to day, to continue my own professional development, and most importantly, rely on the power of the Holy Spirit.
April 5, 2024
So good. I need to buy a copy of this one!
August 27, 2024
2026 update: Again, my body visibly relaxed by the time I had finished reading just the preface. My soul needs such constant reminders of where my hope is, that my rest is not dependent upon my surroundings. I had "Teach from Rest" on a sticky note on my weekly lesson plans and by the end of the school year it's battered state reflected my mental state. Still a self-imposed professional development requirement in the summer.
2025 update: This slim volume was once again a breath of fresh air as I surface from putting away the old school year and planning the one to come. Teaching from rest is the only way that I can survive the years to come (autocorrect said tears, and I suppose that's correct, too), but I so often revert to anxiety. Knowing my preferences as a mom, planning a schedule with margin, sifting any books and programs through a sieve of values, and ultimately surrendering my plans to His will can help guide my way forward.
2024 original review: This is my second time reading this tiny yet powerful book, and I think it's going to be a required pre-school pump up (or is that calm down?) every year for me. The author gently takes your eyes off the chaos in front of us, points your view where it needs to be, and keeps your attention with humor all the way through. It's a short read, but one you could sit in for a while.
2025 update: This slim volume was once again a breath of fresh air as I surface from putting away the old school year and planning the one to come. Teaching from rest is the only way that I can survive the years to come (autocorrect said tears, and I suppose that's correct, too), but I so often revert to anxiety. Knowing my preferences as a mom, planning a schedule with margin, sifting any books and programs through a sieve of values, and ultimately surrendering my plans to His will can help guide my way forward.
2024 original review: This is my second time reading this tiny yet powerful book, and I think it's going to be a required pre-school pump up (or is that calm down?) every year for me. The author gently takes your eyes off the chaos in front of us, points your view where it needs to be, and keeps your attention with humor all the way through. It's a short read, but one you could sit in for a while.
September 19, 2025
While there were a few moments where I thought “oh that’s a good thought!” Overall, I found this book lacking. I could also see this being extremely detrimental to someone who wants to be affirmed in doing the bare minimum. Sure, our kids and their hearts are the top priority, but this book would excuse getting waaaaay behind in the name of rest.
I think the fact that there author doesn’t have older kids is kinda weird too. She can’t point to them and be like “see?! They turned out with this method and aren’t complete idiots!” 😂 idk the proof is in the pudding, and so far there’s no pudding haha
It’s all a balance for sure, but having personally known extremely lazy homeschoolers whose kids were grades behind, it’s just not something I’m ok with glorifying or recommending.
I think the fact that there author doesn’t have older kids is kinda weird too. She can’t point to them and be like “see?! They turned out with this method and aren’t complete idiots!” 😂 idk the proof is in the pudding, and so far there’s no pudding haha
It’s all a balance for sure, but having personally known extremely lazy homeschoolers whose kids were grades behind, it’s just not something I’m ok with glorifying or recommending.
July 13, 2024
Rest is not the absence of hard work, but the absence of anxiety and frenzy!
The Lord has this journey in His hands - I just need to walk in what He’s prepared…This is a re-read for me…I recommend this book to be re-read every few years to keep our minds focused on what’s truly important when we homeschool our gifts from heaven! I love this book and grateful to Sarah for her honest heart and amazing encouragement.
The Lord has this journey in His hands - I just need to walk in what He’s prepared…This is a re-read for me…I recommend this book to be re-read every few years to keep our minds focused on what’s truly important when we homeschool our gifts from heaven! I love this book and grateful to Sarah for her honest heart and amazing encouragement.
August 11, 2024
2nd read Aug 2025 and think I’ll read every summer before we start school-so encouraging!
Was looking for a book to set a good foundation/motivate and encourage me as we continue part time homeschooling in a few weeks, and this was recommended by a few friends. It’s thin and an easy read; it was very encouraging and brought me to tears several times, was practical and gave me some good ideas!
Was looking for a book to set a good foundation/motivate and encourage me as we continue part time homeschooling in a few weeks, and this was recommended by a few friends. It’s thin and an easy read; it was very encouraging and brought me to tears several times, was practical and gave me some good ideas!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 292 reviews