3 important things Homeschool moms need to know

3 important things Homeschool moms need to know

An experienced mom. I couldn’t have imagined that would be me someday. This past weekend, our youngest daughter graduated high school.

By that measure, I too, graduate. Retiring from this career of raising my children; homeschooling them through the last 14 years.

I smile as I write this because I feel triumphant. Grateful. Joyful. As does my girl.

Homeschool moms need to know there’ll more good days

Far too many days the prevailing thoughts of a homeschool mom include, “I can’t do this” and “I’m screwing everything up”.

Shedding tears in the closet. Putting on an educational video; hoping they’ ll get more from that than we, as moms, can offer in that moment.

I want you to know that you are perfectly NORMAL to have those days. Trust me; I have had plenty over the last 14 years.  Tons. All the words for a LOT. I know what it is to fear you are in over your head.

But Mom, you will have countless more good days than bad. You really will!   It’s so very hard to be objective when you are in the midst of educating your kids.

Hang in there, the frustrations come and go. In all honesty, I am SO glad I stuck with it.

It has been a wonderful, though sometimes challenging, journey.

You can do this!

Isaiah 41:13  The Lord… says to you, “Fear not, I am the one who helps you.”

“The biggest mistake new homeschooling parents make is going into it with an ‘all or nothing’ mentality. That’s a lot of pressure for something you’ve never done before…”
― Jacqueline Wilson, The Homeschool Super Freak

3 important things homeschool moms need to know:

If you feel bogged down with school, reevaluate the materials you are using. It is OK to stop them mid-year and switch to something that is a better fit for your family. I know…it is tough to give it up after you paid for it.

But the cost of continuing in something that is bringing you down? Too expensive emotionally. This is a cost you truly can’t afford. Cut your losses and give yourself the grace to make the changes. Importantly, it doesn’t have to be expensive or fancy!

Study learning styles- it makes a huge difference.   One of my children needed help to focus on her studies.

It helped, during our read-aloud time, if she colored or manipulated putty –allowing her to listen more attentively.

Understanding their learning style helps you create a more enjoyable environment. There are several good books on the topic, one suggestion is Every Child Can Succeed.

Think outside the box. It isn’t necessary to create a “school at home” area. You are free to choose what your educational environment looks like. Learning takes place in a variety of ways.

Getting out of the house is a great way to homeschool on the go, keeping things fresh. So when you need a break? Take one! For example, head to a local museum. Ask if they have programs for homeschoolers.

“Teach the child, not just the curriculum.”
― Tamara L. Chilver

Have the kids grab a sketchbook and go out into nature, having them draw and identify what they see. Go to a park and create some running games to burn off energy for physical education. Possibilities are endless!

What you need to know, the one thing…it will be okay! It really will.

I’ve had the privilege of raising up two beautiful girls in this lifestyle. Enjoy the journey along the way.

You are doing something monumental, Moms (and Dads), and the fruit of the labor will be so sweet.

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. – Galatians 6:9

 encouraging homeschool reads

• Rescue: A Homeschool Mom’s Devotional
• Lies Homeschooling Moms Believe

• Educating the Wholehearted Child

• Disclosure: I only recommend products I do/would use myself. This post may contain affiliate links that at NO additional cost to you, may earn me a small commission to help support this blog. Read full privacy policy here.