Sometimes homeschooling can feel like a solitary journey for moms. It’s ironic that we seek out opportunities for our kids to “socialize” yet as homeschool moms we can get isolated unless we make an effort to reach out. The responsibilities of homeschooling and keeping a home running smoothly leave little time for us as individuals. So what is a homeschool mom to do when she feels alone?
How to Cope with Isolation While Homeschooling
Here are some helpful tips to help you cope through the lonely times.
Join an online homeschool support group
Some moms find it hard to come out of their shells, even though they really would like to join a group. They worry about what other moms might think of them, or that they won’t be able to make a connection. Sometimes it can be easier to interact in an online group, so don’t discount their value!
Are you part of my private facebook group, Homeschool Dynamics by Tina Robertson?
We can stay in touch there and you’ll love connecting with other like-minded persons although they may not be in your same town.
Join a local support group or co-op
You can reach out to other like-minded moms in local support groups, co-ops, or play groups. Sometimes just a once a week or once a month get-together can make all the difference in your attitude when you get to talk to other moms in similar situations. It can be just what you need to renew and inspire you.
Sometimes it takes a while to find a group where you and your kids fit in. In the beginning of my homeschool year, I think I went through four groups before I found one that suited myself and my kids.
The group I chose had one park day a week and it was the perfect amount of time to keep us interacting with others and to keep me from wanting to go into a shell.
Although I’m not shy by nature, I do have low tolerance for drama. That kept me from joining some groups. However, I realized the need to be around other people was important as it served as the impetus to keep going through tough times.
Visit the local library
You’d be surprised by some of the activities, groups, and classes you can find for free or low cost at your local library. You’ll find other moms there for story times as well. Don’t be afraid to reach out and find a kindred spirit there!
Become the organizer
If these things don’t exist in your area, start them yourself! Homeschoolers are used to thinking outside the box and taking the initiative, right? If what you need doesn’t exist yet, create it yourself. Odds are there are other moms just like you looking for these types of connections.
Focus on the kids
I know you may say you do this already. But my point is sometimes a friend for you can come out of friendships between kids. I have one dear friend where the friendship bloomed from kids that have similar personalities.
Coping with Homeschool Loneliness
It doesn’t take a whole group to not feel alone. A conversation is an art between two people.
Be willing to drive a few hours
I think this is one one of the most common complaints I hear a lot about homeschool groups. I’ve been part of groups that I’ll be willing to drive to for hours because of the quality over one that was in my hometown and not a good fit.
Carpooling worked too and we would take our lunches to save money on gas.
The truth of it is groups pop up and close down all the time and you need to be willing to adjust to find your niche.
Even one outing a month was good for us at times when life was busy, so I was willing to drive to meet up for the day. I never regretted having to drive to meet with our friends.
Find your tribe or just one BFF
Whether you’re looking for a group or just one great friend, don’t give up. It’s worth the effort. If one group isn’t working, try another.
It’s important for homeschool moms to have friends, online or in person, who understand the homeschooling lifestyle.
There are times in your homeschooling journey when you might feel alone, but it doesn’t have to stay that way. Remember there are other like-minded moms out there and with persistence you can find each other.
You’ll love these other tips:
- Is Homeschooling Making the Grade? It’s in and the Grade is ALL Fs!
- When Homeschooling is Not an Overnight Success (Is it Worth the Risk?)
- How to Grow to Love Being a Homeschooler
- What I Gave Up to Homeschool (and what I got in return)
Hugs and love ya,
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