The Princess and the Frock

I get asked often if I have time to clean and if I’m able make dinner on time. Some of those who don’t homeschool think that if they homeschooled that they would not be able to do anything except homeschool. However, homeschooling provides you and your child with more time and ability to learn life skills. There are so many benefits to homeschooling.

Most people think you have to give up so much to homeschool…. In reality… You gain so much more. -unknown

 

Today I want to introduce an amazing children’s wear owner who is able to not only homeschool her sweet Belle but also has time to create beautiful classic dresses for children.

1 – Tell us about yourself?

I’m Claire, I am the owner of Children’s wear brand The Princess and the Frock. I live in England in the countryside with my husband Mark, who is a session drummer and teacher and our 5 year old daughter Belle.

2 – How long have you been a fashion designer?

I started The Princess and the Frock in 2010, whilst pregnant with Belle. I wanted to be self employed so I could raise Belle and be at home with her. I started  designing clothes for a vintage swing band but once Belle was born, I designed girl’s clothing and it went  from there! I wanted clothing that was ethical, well made and fun!

3 – How long have you been homeschooling?

Always! Belle has never been to school or nursery.

4 – If you could describe homeschooling in 3 words what would it be?

Limitless, rewarding and fun!

5 – What are the benefits of homeschooling?

There are so many! We have quality time together, experiencing life and building our bond as a family. We have the ability to teach in a way to suit Belle, at a time to suit her, teaching at her own pace. We have freedom to teach in our own timeframe, without being tied down to school hours we can discuss things in depth at 6 in the morning or 6 at night! Similarly, we can go into detail without being cut off or having to finish the lesson before Belle is ready . Belle loves asking questions and we have the time and freedom to be able to explore things in depth and also explore things which Belle is passionate about. Questions can easily lead us off topic and that’s what makes it fun – a conversation about bears can quickly lead into a conversation about hibernating and Autumn and next thing you know, we’re off outside collecting autumn leaves! There is no stress to our day. We love being outdoors and have lots of fresh air every day, exploring our world and what’s around us. Being able to be in the open air and have lots of exercise is so beneficial to us all.

6 – How do you do it all?

My husband and I are self employed and both work from home mainly. If my husband does have a gig it’s usually at night time when Belle is in bed. We work together as a team. We usually both work in the evenings meaning we have every day with Belle (except for one day a week where she visits her Nana!). Our week is very busy, Belle does dancing, swimming, gym, horse riding, cheerleading, girl guides and we also help out at our local animal sanctuary. Maths and English is usually covered in the mornings and then we have the rest of the day to explore other areas and take Belle to her various classes. Never a dull moment.

7 – What motivates you?

Seeing how Belle is growing and how confident she is and most importantly, seeing how happy she is, that is enough motivation for me! She is thriving and is truly enjoying life, as are we!

8 – Where can readers connect with you?

You can find me on social media here – www.facebook.com/princessfrockwww.twitter.com/princessfrockwww.instagram.com/princessandthefrock

Also my email address is Claire@theprincessandthefrock.com where you can get in touch! I offer a bespoke service where you can help create your perfect dress!

We loved the dresses we received. They are beautifully made with quality material. The prints are so exquisite. We are currently doing a giveaway on my Instagram page. You have until September 28, 2016 to win any size up to age 7 the “Holly” dress.