How I Found a Safe Space Outside of School

My Experience With Finding A Safe Space 

Even though I’m homeschooled and spend most of my days learning at home, there are still moments when I need a change of scenery—somewhere that feels like a retreat from my routine. 

Spending so much time in the same environment can sometimes make everything blend together, and even my bedroom doesn’t always feel like enough of a break. 

That’s why I’m so grateful to have a safe space outside of my house: my grandmother’s home.

Her house isn’t just another building or another place to sit and do homework. 

It’s a place filled with memories, warmth, and comfort. 

It’s where I’ve spent so many important moments in my life, and every time I step through her front door, 

I feel an overwhelming sense of peace. 

Even before I can take off my shoes, I already feel like I’ve come home.

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A House Full of Memories

My grandmother’s house is the place I basically grew up in. 

The walls there have witnessed so many birthdays, family dinners, and quiet afternoons spent laughing or just sitting together. 

Every corner of that house holds a memory—like the kitchen where we’ve baked cookies together, the living room where we’ve watched movies on rainy days, or even the backyard where I’ve played as a kid.

When I’m there, it doesn’t matter how stressful or chaotic things have felt earlier in the day. 

The atmosphere just calms me down. 

There’s something about the smell of her cooking, the sound of her voice, or even just the way the sunlight hits the windows that makes me feel grounded. 

It’s more than just nostalgia—it’s a sense of belonging that makes me feel safe no matter what’s going on in my life.

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Why This Space Means So Much

Being homeschooled comes with its own set of challenges. 

While it has so many benefits, it also means that my learning environment and my living environment are the same. 

Sometimes it feels like there’s no clear boundary between schoolwork and personal time, and that can get overwhelming. 

Having my grandmother’s house as a safe space has been a huge help for my mental health and overall well-being.

Whenever I’m feeling stressed or just need a break, going to her house gives me a reset. 

It doesn’t have to be for anything special—sometimes we’ll just sit at the kitchen table and talk, or we’ll grab lunch together. 

Other times, we might do something simple and fun, like look through old family photo albums or take a walk around her neighborhood. 

No matter what we do, it’s always enough to remind me that everything will be okay.

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Feeling at Ease and Accepted

One of the things I appreciate most about my grandmother is how she makes me feel completely accepted. 

I don’t have to pretend to be okay or act like I’ve got everything under control when I’m with her. 

If I’m stressed or overwhelmed, she doesn’t judge me—she listens. She offers advice when I need it, but sometimes she just offers a hug or a warm smile, and somehow, that’s all it takes to feel lighter.

Even the quiet moments at her house mean a lot to me. 

Sometimes we don’t even talk much—we’ll just share the space, maybe drink some tea, or watch a show together. 

It’s the kind of comfort that doesn’t need words. 

Just being there reminds me that I’m not alone, and that no matter what challenges I’m facing, I have a safe place to land.

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A Reminder of What Truly Matters

My grandmother’s house has become a symbol for me of what’s really important in life: family, love, and connection. 

It’s easy to get caught up in schoolwork, responsibilities, and the stress of everyday life, but spending time there reminds me to slow down and appreciate the little things.

Every time I leave her house, I feel more centered. 

It’s like I’ve been reminded of my roots and the people who care about me unconditionally. 

That sense of security gives me the energy and motivation to tackle whatever comes next—whether it’s finishing assignments, planning for the future, or just navigating the ups and downs of being a teen.

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Finding a safe space outside of school or home is so important, even when you’re homeschooled. 

For me, that space will always be my grandmother’s house. 

It’s not just a physical place—it’s a feeling of comfort and unconditional love. 

Every memory, every conversation, and every moment spent there reminds me of who I am and how supported I am.

Whenever life feels overwhelming or I need a break from the usual routine, I know exactly where to go. 

The second I walk through her front door, I feel at ease and completely comfortable. 

I’m so grateful to have that kind of safe space in my life—a place where I can always recharge, feel loved, and remind myself that no matter how stressful things get, I’m never truly alone.