For the past 24 years, I have been speaking at homeschool conferences and support groups. Being at those conferences gave me the opportunity to meet and speak with hundreds of moms who homeschool over the years. I heard about many homeschool struggles. The joys of homeschooling and many questions and many fears.
I also saw many homeschool moms cry. After 31 years of homeschooling, I can relate to those tears!
Don’t get me wrong – I love homeschooling! But it hasn’t always been easy. Some days I was filled with sunshine and smiles. Other days I was a frustrated homeschool mom.
There are many times I’ve seen a homeschooling mom cry as I gave a workshop, or talked with her. Through all of this, I have found that there are some common reasons that they cry.
Sometimes the exhaustion of keeping up with the baby, toddlers, homeschooling, and housework just gets to us. We become overwhelmed, and fatigued, often resulting in a meltdown. I know because I have been there!
Nights of being up with a sick fussy baby, followed by a day of needy toddlers make for a rough day. Sometimes we just need to take a break!
When you are too tired to handle your normal daily routines, only do what is necessary that day!
Give the kids lots of reading times, do some fun things with them that don’t require much energy or thought, and take a nap! Even if your kids don’t still nap, have them take quiet time in the afternoon. Train them to stay in their rooms and play quietly, rest, read books, or listen to music.
There will be many times when you will be so glad for that training, as that time to rest is the only thing that gets you through the day.
It is very easy to let busyness overwhelm us as homeschooling moms! On top of teaching academics, training our kids, and caring for our homes, there are many outside activities that we can get involved in. Without intentional planning, we can be overwhelmed with busyness! To have every hour over-booked stresses each member of the family. It is possible to be too busy!
If you are in the midst of fatigue-filled days due to a new baby, or other circumstances, consider doing only the basics academically.
Also, consider a four-day school week. That extra day to rest and catch up on things can make a huge difference in how you feel.
Above all, listen to your body!
If you don’t get the rest you need, it is going to catch up with you, and you are going to face homeschool burn out. Don’t fall into the trap.
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Be sure to grab this free book of homeschooling tips![magicactionbox]
One Response
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would be okay. I’m absolutely enjoying your
blog and look forward to new updates.