08/11/2023
Dear overwhelmed moms having a rough homeschool year,
Homeschooling ALWAYS looks easier on paper. It never is reality...
During my first few years, I wanted to give up. I felt like all I was doing was spending my days like a drill sergeant and breaking up arguments. I had mom guilt and told myself there was "no way my kids are learning or enjoying this".
Things that I've learned since those days:
*I over-scheduled our life...running around with little kids AND trying to fit in school/home management requires me to actually be home.
*Relax. Relax a lot more. ( Enjoy the moments that are often so fleeting)
* Realize all children (even siblings) learn differently. This is the huge blessing of homeschooling. We can learn how our child learns best and customize his/her education.
*Learn alongside my children. I learned more homeschooling my children this last decade than I ever learned in school. ( truth!)
*Remember that our goal is to cultivate children that love to learn. Once children love to learn, they keep that with them their entire lives.
* The home environment is a largely underestimated part of homeschooling. Children are "breathing in" the atmosphere and learning from it. Create your own culture at home.
*Don't buy more curriculum than you can use.
This CS Lewis quote is one I often refer to: "All schools both here and in America should teach far fewer subjects far better..."
Those days of wishing I could just give up have faded. I finally found a rhythm to our days. My work isn't easy, but it's deeply satisfying.
I like to keep our days simple but humming along.
Don't be discouraged, mama! Remember to enjoy this journey, it's for you, too! ♥♥♥
With love,
Jenny
