Homestead life has a rhythm of its own, and in our family, that rhythm includes kids of all ages pitching in. From early morning animal chores to tractor work, from caring for livestock to learning where food really comes from, our homestead runs because everyone plays a part.
Raising kids on a homestead isn’t about perfection or productivity—it’s about responsibility, connection, and learning side by side. Our kids are growing up knowing that animals need care every day, food comes from work and intention, and family means showing up for one another.
Morning Chores: Night Owls, Early Risers, and Hungry Animals
Mornings on the homestead start with one simple rule: the animals come first.
Our soon-to-be 13-year-old daughter is a classic night owl, so early mornings aren’t always her favorite. There’s usually a little groaning and a lot of stretching before she makes her way outside. But once she’s there, her love for the animals takes over—especially the goats.
She has a special bond with them, and our goat Dolly (named after the one and only Dolly Parton) is her clear favorite. Feeding, watering, checking on everyone, and chatting away to Dolly like an old friend quickly turns morning grumpiness into purpose.
Tractor Work, Big Chores, and Teenage Energy
I’m pretty sure our 16-year-old son lives by the motto work hard, play hard. Between managing schoolwork, holding down a job, and being a teenager, he still shows up ready to help with homestead chores.
He’s taken on many of the bigger responsibilities—especially tractor work. From hauling firewood and moving hay to tackling heavier cleanup projects, he’s learning real-life skills, safety, and confidence. And while he works hard, he never misses a chance to have a little fun—especially when it comes to picking on his sister during those early mornings, usually earning himself a well-deserved eye roll before everyone gets back to work.
Animal Care, Egg Collecting, and Daily Responsibility
Animal care is woven into our kids’ everyday lives. Feeding, watering, checking fences, and collecting eggs are just part of the routine.
Egg collecting is always a favorite chore for our daughter, and through these small tasks, our kids learn to notice changes, pay attention to animal behavior, and take responsibility seriously. The animals depend on them, and they understand that showing up—every day—matters.
Teaching Respect Through Raising Our Own Food
Not every part of homesteading is easy or lighthearted.
We raise meat chickens and pigs for our family, and when the time comes, all of our kids help with dispatching in age-appropriate ways. It’s done with care, respect, and intention. This is one of the most important lessons homesteading teaches—where food truly comes from and the responsibility that comes with raising animals.
It’s not always comfortable, but it’s meaningful. Our kids understand the value of the food on their plates and the life that provided it.
When Kids Grow Up—but Homestead Values Stick
Our oldest son is 22 and away at college, but when he comes home on breaks, he slips right back into homestead life. He jumps in wherever help is needed—lending an extra set of hands, tackling bigger projects, and reminding us that these values don’t disappear when kids grow up.
Seeing him return home and willingly help is one of the most rewarding parts of raising kids on a homestead.
Lessons That Go Far Beyond the Farm
Homestead chores may look simple, but they teach lifelong lessons:
- Responsibility and consistency
- Teamwork and communication
- Respect for animals and nature
- Understanding where food comes from
- Pride in contributing to family life
Some days are smoother than others. Some days take longer than planned. But progress matters more than perfection.
Why We Choose This Life
Raising kids on a homestead means muddy boots, early mornings, and work that never truly ends—but it also means connection, confidence, and purpose.
Our kids are growing up with practical skills, strong values, and a deep understanding of what it means to care for animals, land, and family. The chores may change as they grow, but the lessons will stay with them for life.
And for us, that makes every early morning and dirty pair of boots worth it.
Homesteading with kids isn’t always easy, but it’s honest, grounding, and full of moments we wouldn’t trade for anything.