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Day 22 Homeschooling Preschoolers And New Homeschooler Free Bootcamp

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This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Today is day 22 homeschooling preschoolers of the 31 Day Free Boot Camp for New Homeschoolers. 

You’re tough, you’re tough! You have hung in there with me on this series and this is the official 10 day countdown.

Before I started homeschooling I had read an article where it said that the major portion of an individual’s personality is well established before school.

Day 22 Homeschooling Preschoolers And New Homeschooler Free Bootcamp

Suddenly, my ideas of homeschool preschool learning changed because I realized that those years would form the very attitudes and patterns that would be lasting. WHOA!

And I had thought preschool was all about coloring and ABC’s.

Certainly, homeschooling preschoolers is so important because it’s the very foundation of all future learning.

Homeschooling Preschoolers

I knew that if I didn’t find a balance between easy going and exacting that anxiety, doubt, worry and fear would drive me to the public school. Guess what? It did.

Doubt turned to fear, fear turned to feelings of failure and feeling he was already behind in kindergarten, I sent him to public school for part of that year.

Let me tell you the rest of this story by telling what I did and did not do before I sent him to Kindergarten.

I did

  • teach him how to write and read by Kindergarten.
  • play, do crafts and learn music.
  • keep the roads hot and heavy by traveling to all kinds of field trips and museums.
  • sing nursery rhymes to him.
  • read from beautiful books and cuddle every day.

I did not

  • know, let alone worry about standards because I was blissfully ignorant about any kind of standard.
  • use a formal curriculum program. Brighter Vision Learning Adventures is a box that came each month to my home with a bright colored workbook, a craft, a book and music.  Mr. Senior 2013 loved it and I loved it too. It no longer is in business.
  • worry about socialization because we had music classes and gymnastics.
  • stop worrying about what is coming up in the next grade and this led to me sending him back to public school.

Looking back now and after the first few days of public school Kindergarten, I realized that he was way advanced.

Tips for Homeschooling Preschoolers

It’s true that children are hardy, I just wished that I would have aimed for soaking up cherished moments.

I didn’t know Kindergarten was about learning to read and write. I put extreme pressure on Mr. Senior 2013 to perform.

What I have learned is that preschool is just that!! PRE- means BEFORE school.

That is the time to focus on “readiness” skills. That is NOT the time that our children learn to hold a pencil grip correctly, but that is the time to train them to hold it correctly.

This is NOT done by holding a pencil, but by playing games, being outside and doing crafts that help them learn fine motor skills.

Children are capable of so much more during these years than we sometimes give them credit for.

Burnout out looms in Kindergarten or first grade because “formal school” started way too earlier.

You have to let go of the feeling that your child will be behind because you spent the day doing crafts, playing and reading and that surely there should be something more “serious” that you should be doing.

It is not easy to combat the thinking of the education world that early teaching has to be formal. Children learn by play.

There is a reason we learned all those fun nursery rhymes and that is because memorization and hearing word patterns is a skill set need for reading.

How to Homeschool Preschoolers

Mustering up the courage to take my son back out of school during his Kindergarten year was not easy, but I had learned a VERY valuable lesson.

No longer would I question what I done even in my ignorance.

The struggle empowered me to put faith back into the naturalness of homeschooling. I know not everyone homeschools for faith based reasons and I respect that in my workshops.

For me though it is the very core of my homeschooling.

Parents have been given the responsibility of educating our children and viewing it as the next extension of parenting helps you to meet the challenge.

During their toddler years and preschool years I have rocked, talked and cuddled and read to my sons and it has given them an excellent start to their formal education. Homeschooling with preschoolers is not for the faint hearted, but home is for the brave.

Will you meet the challenge?

Have you missed any of the previous post on this series?

New to Homeschooling Start with the Basics

1 – 7 Start with the Homeschool Basics

8-14 Homeschool Organization 101 for Beginners

15 – 21 Best tips for New Homeschoolers Choosing Curriculum

22- 28 Homeschool Preschoolers, Highschoolers, and Unique Learners

In addition look at these other resources for homeschooling preschoolers.

Other Homeschooling Preschoolers Resources

Finally, look at some of these curriculum resources.

Curriculum For Homeschooling Preschool

12 Homeschooling Preschoolers Resources, Activities, and Curriculum

There is no doubt play-based learning is hands down the best way for preschoolers to learn.

You'll love some of these resources which can help you both teach and schedule if you want to do a bit more formal teaching.

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Day 22 Homeschooling Preschoolers And New Homeschooler Free Bootcamp
Day 22: Homeschoolers with Preschoolers - Truth or Dare?

Day 1 Learn The Lingo and New Homeschooler Free Bootcamp (& free glossary)

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This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Today is day 1: Learn the Lingo of the homeschool world in the free 31 Day Free Boot Camp for New Homeschoolers.

Congratulations on your new beginnings as a new homeschooler. It’s an exciting journey for sure. I wrote this series well over 9 years ago.

Not only am I updating this free first time homeschoolers series, but I’m sharing some of the best ever homeschool resources.

For day one, I’ll be sharing why it’s important to start with how to find the information you need.

Day 1 Learn The Lingo and New Homeschooler Free Bootcamp (& free glossary)

Many new homeschoolers begin their journey thinking the public school world and our homeschool world are similar.

They are not. You’ll need to know how to navigate the homeschool world.

And that begins with knowing new terms to you but that we speak everyday in the homeschooling world.

First, I want to share a story with you which will help you to appreciate that you have to have some skin in the game.

New to Homeschool

Have you ever heard the butterfly story? The short version is that a little boy runs to tenderly cut open a cocoon to help the struggling butterfly emerge.

Even though he had good intentions to assist the butterfly, the butterfly’s fragile wings never expanded.

The butterfly just walked around with a swollen body, shriveled wings and never did learn to fly.

Struggling was part of the empowerment and essential to the development of the butterfly.

As a seasoned veteran, I want to make your beginning less difficult with this 31 day free new homeschooler boot camp.

However, just like the beautiful butterfly which emerges from a struggle, your struggling with various homeschool issues will empower you.

Most people don’t want to hear that, but if you think about your parenting journey it’s similar to that. We do as much as we can to prepare for our first child.

However, nothing compares to the personal experience of raising a family.

As you emerge and face each issue, I want the topics in this series to be a soft place for you to land when you become overwhelmed.

The best way for me to do that is start from the beginning on what I feel you need to know.

Based on my many years of personally helping new homeschoolers and conducting workshops through my new bee program.

Who is Tina Robertson

But before you can appreciate how I can help you here are are a few things about me. Sure, this free new homeschooler boot camp is all about you.

However, you need to know that I’m not new to the homeschool world.

Too, I have 3 homeschooled grads. So I’m well past having my oldest kid being 10 years old.

But the best part is that what I have for you works.

Also, look at a few other things about me.

And I have a detailed self-paced online homeschool Kickstarter course. It is a detailed comprehensive course for first time homeschoolers.

That is enough about me.

This new homeschoolers free boot camp is about you. I’ve not only been helping new homeschoolers in person, but here at my site for years.

Let’s dive in because I know that your questions in the beginning focus mainly on one topic and that is choosing curriculum.

Having curriculum is viewed as the hallmark of homeschooling.

And I have much to tell you on how to select it.

However, I would be doing you a great disservice if I jumped right to that topic without building in you an appreciation of the homeschooling world.

You can’t come to appreciate all the facets of the homeschooling world if you cannot communicate with us and talk the talk.

Key to extracting answers to your questions during your journey is to use and know homeschool lingo.

New Homeschoolers's Glossary of Terms

So, I have a gift for you. It is a printable glossary of homeschool terms.

This will get you well on your way to minimizing the struggle and maximizing your time.

Day 1 Learn The Lingo and New Homeschooler Free Bootcamp (& free glossary)

Be sure to grab the download of homeschool terms you will be hearing now and from on. They will help you get on the road to homeschooling and stay on it.

Day 1 Learn The Lingo and New Homeschooler Free Bootcamp (& free glossary)

5 Days of a Homeschooling Co-Op
Day 1: Learn the Lingo – Then Go! {31 Day Blog Boot Camp For New Homeschoolers}
Day 1: Learn the Lingo – Then Go! {31 Day Blog Boot Camp For New Homeschoolers}

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Socialization – A Homeschool Hallucination?

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This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Anybody that homeschools has probably faced homeschool socialization interrogations. Also, look at more tips on my page The Dynamics of How to Homeschool Easily and Smarter.

Today, I’m sharing about socialization in our homeschool world. Are we as isolated as some think?

First, I want you to hear my story.

Back in the covered wagon days like my kids think or at least LBK (life before kids), I worked with lawyers.

Socialization - A Homeschool Hallucination?

I worked as an assistant to prepare clients for upcoming trials.

See, I’ve always been in preparedness mode.

I took pride in preparing the lawyers for objections from the opposing side.

And I always tried to think outside of the box for one-liners and comebacks when they were needed.

When it comes to homeschool socialization, I feel the same way.

In many ways it is similar to a battle or drama that is always brewing.

Get Those Kids Out of the House

You know what I am talking about.

Maybe you have gotten similar statements  –  ”homeschoolers are a bunch of holy roly weirdos”, “they’re just weird” or “Mom, those kids are gonna have to get out of the house sometimes”. 

I’m sure you have some to add.

Looking back at my LBK days, I probably enjoyed the process of preparing for those far-fetched objections just as much as actually assisting in the courtroom.

Oh sure, once in a while I may have a quick comeback or I might shock astound folks with my quick wit (shock myself too).

But most of the time preparation is key to giving a good defense to the dreaded socialization issue.

It has been facing homeschoolers from the time they mouth the words: “I’m  homeschooling”.

First, comes the silent strong look from even complete strangers.

Grab My Book on How to Homeschool

Homeschooling 31 Day Boot Camp for New Homeschoolers is a real eye-opener on homeschooling. It will alleviate a lot of the anxieties about getting started homeschooling.

They might as well just say what is on their mind.

It is written all over their face and then comes the blanket statement, which by the way is obvious that they have not researched this topic well.

Each year many new homeschoolers join the ranks with us in homeschooling.

And because we don’t want to be among the ones that are not well-researched,  we need to take the time to get a clear cut picture of the meaning or definition of socialization.

Too, it’s hard to be prepared for something that we are not clear on.

Socialization – A Homeschool Hallucination

Getting the full flavor of these words, I chose not to use a free definition found online.

Take a glance at these definitions that I took from The New Oxford American Dictionary- Second Edition, which is my dictionary here at my home.

Sociable –  willing to talk and engage in activities with other people: friendly

Socialize – 1. mix socially with others 2. make someone behave in a way that is acceptable to their society 3. organize according to the principles of socialism.

See a problem with the definitions? 

We certainly don’t want to defend something that we are against because we are not using society’s measure on education or values.

However, probably all of us want our children to be willing to engage in friendly activities with other people and be genuine, compassionate, and caring.

For the most part, we have to assume too that most people think we hide under rocks and come out only at night time and that normally is the thinking that we are defending.

From “Catty” to Congenial Comments

So in the spirit of preparation and not condemnation and because I always want to say “it looks like a prison to me” which is probably not the most gracious reply to someone in public school,  I have created a list of one-liners and comebacks.

Here is the question/statement: So why do you homeschool and what about socialization? You are sheltering your children.

  • I homeschool because I want my kids socialized.
  • I want my kids to get along with all kinds of people.
  • We choose to participate in activities with others because we want our kids to accept people of varying backgrounds and ages.
  • My proof is in the pudding- – would you like to see my lesson plans for the week?

How to Answer Others

Also, look at three more

  • I am seriously considering cutting back some activities because our week is bulging with social activities and I need time to be at home.
  • I want my children to be around people who model respect, are considerate and well-spoken. What is learned from an early age will be emulated when they are older and around others that are not respectful or considerate.
  • Yes, you are right.  I am sheltering my children. I won’t be able to do it forever, but I can do it as long as I can and help them to become strong in their faith and values. Seems like what any good parent would do.

And as you can see there is no shortage of ways to reply.

  • Yes, have you heard of the most recent (insert here: bullying charge, teacher misconduct, shooting or drug raid) at public school.
  • Sometimes I think we overthink this, what happened to the days when people just got kids together and they played without worrying if they were socialized or not?
  • Yes, we homeschool because faith matters and I think of this scripture (insert your favorite one here about “dealings with stupid or foolish people” or “training children”).

Homeschool Socialization Situations & Opportunities

  • Each family has to decide what is best for them because even within each family, children are very different.  I have one child that thrives with friends so I can plan sleep overs and lots of meet ups and parties. And I have one child that does not need his emotional tank filled with tons of friends so I can satisfy his need for quiet time and to be with less people.
  • Would you like to come and be a visitor at our school? (Of course this is meant for a well-meaning relative or close friend that you know.)
  • I prefer that my children’s learning time not be interrupted because others do not know how to behave.
  • We homeschool for medical reasons.

Do you see a few you can use?

If you were to ask me before I started homeschooling how much I worried about socialization,  my answer would be zero, zip and none.

The problem with this scenario is that I am not homeschooling somewhere on paradise island by myself.

And because we mix and mingle with other people, like you, I get my fair share of second-guessers, naysayers, and plain ole negative nellies.

Gradually folks like that can chip away at your armor and doubt can set in about your decision.

What you need now is concrete proof that we come out from under our rock and caves and that our children are actually very socially adapted.

Social Activities For Homeschoolers

Dare I say they are friendly and some of us actually like people.

Look at these opportunities for homeschool socialization and how we learned with others.

Socialization – A Homeschool Hallucination? You’ve homeschooled for any length of time either yourself or your friends have been posed with the BIG S question. How about socialization? And aren’t we just those homeschooling weirdos. Maybe so. Homeschooling certainly hasn’t been the easiest path, but I’m grateful I did jump on the bandwagon and since then I have since met many really amazing families and have seen the success they have had educating and raising healthy children.

Fall is a great time to be outside and to be with othes.

Socialization – A Homeschool Hallucination? You’ve homeschooled for any length of time either yourself or your friends have been posed with the BIG S question. How about socialization? And aren’t we just those homeschooling weirdos. Maybe so. Homeschooling certainly hasn’t been the easiest path, but I’m grateful I did jump on the bandwagon and since then I have since met many really amazing families and have seen the success they have had educating and raising healthy children.

Anytime is great for visiting your local police department.

Early Years – Fall Activities and Community Helpers

Socialization – A Homeschool Hallucination? You’ve homeschooled for any length of time either yourself or your friends have been posed with the BIG S question. How about socialization? And aren’t we just those homeschooling weirdos. Maybe so. Homeschooling certainly hasn’t been the easiest path, but I’m grateful I did jump on the bandwagon and since then I have since met many really amazing families and have seen the success they have had educating and raising healthy children.

And studying about Native Americans and making your own leather wear is so fun.

 Native Americans

Socialization – A Homeschool Hallucination? You’ve homeschooled for any length of time either yourself or your friends have been posed with the BIG S question. How about socialization? And aren’t we just those homeschooling weirdos. Maybe so. Homeschooling certainly hasn’t been the easiest path, but I’m grateful I did jump on the bandwagon and since then I have since met many really amazing families and have seen the success they have had educating and raising healthy children.

Of course some of the best times are when you can see other family’s pets.

Homeschool Socialization 

Amphibians and Reptiles

Socialization – A Homeschool Hallucination? You’ve homeschooled for any length of time either yourself or your friends have been posed with the BIG S question. How about socialization? And aren’t we just those homeschooling weirdos. Maybe so. Homeschooling certainly hasn’t been the easiest path, but I’m grateful I did jump on the bandwagon and since then I have since met many really amazing families and have seen the success they have had educating and raising healthy children.

Also, heading outdoors for a Westward Ho co-op is really fun with others.

Socialization – A Homeschool Hallucination? You’ve homeschooled for any length of time either yourself or your friends have been posed with the BIG S question. How about socialization? And aren’t we just those homeschooling weirdos. Maybe so. Homeschooling certainly hasn’t been the easiest path, but I’m grateful I did jump on the bandwagon and since then I have since met many really amazing families and have seen the success they have had educating and raising healthy children.

 Westward Hoooo

Socialization – A Homeschool Hallucination? You’ve homeschooled for any length of time either yourself or your friends have been posed with the BIG S question. How about socialization? And aren’t we just those homeschooling weirdos. Maybe so. Homeschooling certainly hasn’t been the easiest path, but I’m grateful I did jump on the bandwagon and since then I have since met many really amazing families and have seen the success they have had educating and raising healthy children.

Socialization – A Homeschool Hallucination? You’ve homeschooled for any length of time either yourself or your friends have been posed with the BIG S question. How about socialization? And aren’t we just those homeschooling weirdos. Maybe so. Homeschooling certainly hasn’t been the easiest path, but I’m grateful I did jump on the bandwagon and since then I have since met many really amazing families and have seen the success they have had educating and raising healthy children.

And a rainforest co-op is just no fun unless you have all the rainforest food.

Amazon Rain Forest

Socialization – A Homeschool Hallucination? You’ve homeschooled for any length of time either yourself or your friends have been posed with the BIG S question. How about socialization? And aren’t we just those homeschooling weirdos. Maybe so. Homeschooling certainly hasn’t been the easiest path, but I’m grateful I did jump on the bandwagon and since then I have since met many really amazing families and have seen the success they have had educating and raising healthy children.

Socialization – A Homeschool Hallucination? You’ve homeschooled for any length of time either yourself or your friends have been posed with the BIG S question. How about socialization? And aren’t we just those homeschooling weirdos. Maybe so. Homeschooling certainly hasn’t been the easiest path, but I’m grateful I did jump on the bandwagon and since then I have since met many really amazing families and have seen the success they have had educating and raising healthy children.

 The European Renaissance

Socialization – A Homeschool Hallucination? You’ve homeschooled for any length of time either yourself or your friends have been posed with the BIG S question. How about socialization? And aren’t we just those homeschooling weirdos. Maybe so. Homeschooling certainly hasn’t been the easiest path, but I’m grateful I did jump on the bandwagon and since then I have since met many really amazing families and have seen the success they have had educating and raising healthy children.

Homeschooling and Socialization

 Early American History

Socialization – A Homeschool Hallucination? You’ve homeschooled for any length of time either yourself or your friends have been posed with the BIG S question. How about socialization? And aren’t we just those homeschooling weirdos. Maybe so. Homeschooling certainly hasn’t been the easiest path, but I’m grateful I did jump on the bandwagon and since then I have since met many really amazing families and have seen the success they have had educating and raising healthy children.

 Ancient Empires/Civilizations

Too, I have never lacked for words when asked about our homeschool socialization opportunities.

However, I have not always been proud of my quick temper.

I know it stems from a place deep down in my heart because homeschooling is a work of the heart and it is hard work on top of that.

Now, I can revisit this post each year and will be armed with gracious speech.

I still miss the drama of the courtroom, but then again I now have homeschooling naysayers, skeptics and Debbie downers to prepare for.

I hope this helps you to be armed for this school year and that others will be astounded at your quick wit and preparation too.

MORE HOMESCHOOL SOCIALIZATION TIPS

Look at my other articles here and grab yourself some more one-liners, comebacks and gracious sayings

How do you handle your reply?

Socialization - A Homeschool Hallucination?

This blog hop is organized by iHomeschool Network.

Hugs and love ya,

Signature T

The NOT To Do List: 32 Things New Homeschoolers Should Avoid

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This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Asking a group of seasoned homeschool moms is the best way to find out 32 things new homeschoolers should avoid.Also, look at more tips on my pages The Dynamics of How to Homeschool Easily and Smarter.

I’m reminded of what my homeschooling mother used to say. You learn new things one of two ways. One is by example and other is by experience.

The NOT To Do List: 32 Things New Homeschoolers Should Avoid

Instead of learning the homeschooling ropes the hard way by having to experiment on your kids, learn how to homeschool from those who’ve gone ahead of you or from their example.

Besides, nobody wants to experiment on their kids, but it happens.

Hoping to lessen your stress of beginning new to homeschool, look at these 32 things new homeschoolers should avoid.

Mistakes New Homeschoolers Should Avoid

  • 1. Remember your WHY or what brought you to homeschooling. Write it down somewhere so you don’t forget when times are tough.

  • 3. Do not recreate public school at home.

  • 5. Comparing your children, your home, and your spouse to other homeschooling families is a huge joy sucking trap. Your family is unique and homeschooling needs to fit your family’s needs.

Beginning to homeschool with unrealistic expectations is joy zapping and it’s huge among things new homeschoolers should avoid.

Homeschooling Mistakes

  • 6. You don’t have to run your homeschool day like other homeschool moms although they may tout only one way works.

  • 7. Keep pushing curriculum which isn’t working is another big do not do.

  • 8. Thinking your kids will all learn the same way is another hurdle. It’s okay to use various programs to meet each child’s needs.

  • 9. Curriculum is a tool, not the boss. You are the boss.

Mistakes to Avoid When Homeschooling for the First Time

  • 13. Don’t stress over the small stuff. Learning doesn’t just happen with a book in a kid’s face. Learning happens through everyday interaction and meaningful conversations. Take time to deschool and understand what it means for your family.

  • 14. Do not think you have to cram everything a child needs to learn in a day. Take it one day at a time.

  • 15. You’re not a one act entertaining committee. Sometimes learning is not always fun, it’s just learning. Constantly feeling like everyday has to be over the top fun is exhausting and can zap the joy out of the day.

  • 16. Don’t forget to ask your kids what they want to learn. It’s their education. When you have a willing participant in homeschooling, kids work harder and retain what they’re learning. That makes your job easier.

Homeschooling Potholes to Avoid

  • 17. Do not skip field trips. They are essential to bringing learning to life. Kids learn by being out in the world.

The NOT To Do List: 32 Things New Homeschoolers Should Avoid
  • 18. Don’t underestimate the value of play. Playing is the first introduction to self-education.

  • 19. Assuming homeschooling will be expensive is another mistake. You can spend as little or as much as you want depending on your needs.

  • 21. Using curriculum because somebody else uses it is a costly mistake.

What NOT to Do When You Begin Homeschooling

Also, why do we focus only our kids’ needs when beginning to homeschool? When you focus on your education which doesn’t have to take long you truly can help each child meet his potential.

  • 23. Don’t be a perfectionist. You’ll mess up, your kids will mess up. Tomorrow starts a new and fresh day.

  • 24. Homeschooled kids don’t need to be in class the same amount of time as public schooled kids. We simply do not have the same distractions.

  • 25. You don’t have to follow state educational standards. Knowing your state homeschool laws is the first place to start.

New to Homeschooling

  • 28. Don’t rush. Get outdoors and go to the library. Nothing has to be timed.

  • 29 Don’t be put off when it takes you longer than a year for you or your child to adjust to homeschooling.

Mistakes New Homeschoolers Should Avoid

  • 31. Do not think it’s not okay to step away and take a break.
  • 32. Don’t write your lesson plans in pen. The first sick day and you’re feeling behind. Plan just a few weeks out.

And finally, do NOT think you can’t do this. You absolutely one hundred percent can.

You’ll love my book, Homeschooling 31 Day Boot Camp for New Homeschoolers: When You Don’t Know Where to Begin.

You’ll experience one or two mistakes, but they can be minimized.

There seems to only be two mindsets when new homeschoolers start.

There seems to only be two mindsets when new homeschoolers start.
There are over achievers who are looking to right all the wrongs in a few months or under achievers who feel a rich learning environment just happens with no intentional effort of the parent. Avoid these two mindsets!

Neither mindset works, but it can set you for failure. Achieving balance is absolutely key in your first year of homeschooling.

Do you find you’re making some of these mistakes already?

You’ll love some more tips below about how to start homeschooling:

Hugs and love ya,

When Homeschooling is Sucking the Life Out of You

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This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I must be doing this wrong because homeschooling is sucking the life out of me. I hear it a lot and I felt like that at one time too. Also, look at my page The Dynamics of How to Homeschool Easily and Smarter for more tips and resources.

Too, a lot of families who bring kids from public school can find it harder to appreciate the homeschooling lifestyle; many families who have homeschooled from the beginning equally can struggle.

Add in the mix of kids’ lackadaisical attitude toward anything, let alone school work and you have a recipe for quitting.

When Homeschooling Is Sucking the Life Out of You

You may even feel public school is better for your kids.

When Homeschooling Sucks the Life Out of You

Although I don’t claim to have all the answers, from my over 20+ years of homeschooling from prek to high school AND conducting workshops with new homeschoolers, I do have tips that will help you.

Besides, I care. I mean I TRULY care about your success.

I KNOW the homeschooling lifestyle is a superior approach to education. I will tell you why in a minute.

Am I Selfish For Wanting to Send Them to Public School

Homeschooling being superior may not be a popular mindset among public school advocates, but I’m not here to win a popularity contest; I want to see you succeed without you feeling like you have to give life and limb for a lifestyle which is backed by numbers.

I’m here to tell you that you CAN succeed without tons of anxiety and stress and how it can be done.

First, it starts with knowing stats.

Don’t get me wrong, I love math and science, but it’s not the way I normally help people. However, we need to start with an analytical view before I speak from my heart.

When Emotions Are High Judgment Is Low

See when our emotions close in on us and doubt hits our day whether we’re doing enough or not, numbers like how much time we spend teaching our child doesn’t change.

What I’m saying is that one-to-one tutoring is a superior approach to thirty kids to one teacher. It’s simply a matter of odds and time.

Even at times when I felt I was at my breaking point like when my husband almost died, and my sister too, my kids learned way more at that time about what was really important.

Additionally because we did get behind when life hit hard, I was able to catch up far quicker than public school. We did NOT have to wait for a full school year or until other kids got the concepts.

My focus was simply my kids and my family. Although I didn’t feel like I was in control of my life and homeschool and sometimes I wasn’t, I know now that I definitely was.

Unless you’ve checked completely out, meaning you’re not doing one thing to teach your child like having meaningful conversations with him, reading to him, or playing with him, the odds are STILL in your favor of succeeding.

Also, get some more research and stats from this site National Home Education Research Institute to see how homeschoolers really are succeeding.

How to Go From a Crippled to Confident Mindset

I was making the best decisions based on the odds and time actually spent.

Whenever I feel that deep down nagging tug that I’m not doing enough, I remind myself of how much time it actually takes to homeschool.

We have time for many interruptions at home and still have time to make progress.

So I changed my mindset from a choice of sending my kids to public school as my default solution to one of using my time to make homeschool work to the best I could. Instead of putting energy into an approach where my kids odds of learning were actually lowered, I made the homeschooling lifestyle priority.

Next, before I jump into sharing multiple tried and true tips to cope when homeschooling sucks, I want you to know that I don’t believe one should homeschool at all cost.

That belief too is not exactly a popular one with some of the faith-based community.

With all of my heart I know that homeschooling is a superior approach because a child gets a uniquely individualized education; however, there are other factors like health, mental health, and even finances which deter some families.

Homeschooling your children is a very personal decision and one that a family should make for their children without guilt or judgment.

We really do not know what goes on inside of every family’s home and so I respect the decision each family has to make.

10 Tried and True Trips When Homeschooling Sucks

Next, look at these ten tips to cope when homeschooling is sucking the life out of you.

Tip. 1. Just STOP, STEP AWAY, and RESET.

First, we may think we have to keep pushing. Why do we do that to ourselves and our kids?

When in fact, from a complete stop comes rejuvenation, power, and refocus. Sometimes we can try to squeeze homeschooling into a busy life. We may need to stop and look at our schedule again to see what is really important to keep and what can we let go.

Tip 2. Deschool.

A lot is said about deschooling in the homeschool world. Some of it I agree with, other information not so much.

Deschooling is not just something you do when you’re a new homeschooler. It’s a technique for burn out too.

Look at some of these ways to use the deschooling process:

  • Do you need rest? STOP. Take care of your needs and your children’s physical needs. There is nothing selfish about self-care. A break does not mean a stop. It just means a break.
  • Did you jump from public school to homeschool without really taking the time to know how your children learn? Putting your child in the next grade because public school said they belong in a grade is a huge newbie mistake. It take times to know how your children learn and you can do that with inexpensive to free curriculum until you know your child’s learning personality.
  • Deschooling does not always mean idleness. Deschooling is different for each family. I know kids who do well with routine. However, can you scale back your expectations until whatever is the object of the stress subsides? Have you heard of the power of little done often? It’s true.

Furthermore, I share tips here on my video How to Deschool – Are You Doomed If You’ve Never Deschooled.

Tip 3. Do a Unit Study.

Additionally, I switched from boxed curriculum to unit studies many years ago.

Little did I recognize then the full and positive impact they would have on our day and now our journey.

Unit studies can take a bit more time to plan; the return is the satisfaction of learning exactly what interests us.

When homeschooling loses his luster, try a different approach. You may need to just switch approaches instead of quitting homeschooling.

Look at my post Top 5 Approaches New Homeschoolers Need to Know to know you’re following the approach that is best for your family and that you’re not repeating public school at home.

Tip 4. Use Nap Time to Tidy Up.

Moreover, if you have a younger household and still have naptime, use about 15 or 20 minutes of the time for a quick tidy up.

Even though it may not be the type of cleaning you really need, don’t forget the power of little. Every bit counts when you have a house full of littles.

I used to run myself almost completely ragged while two of my kids napped.

Twenty years later, I realized some of the time should have been spent relaxing and just sitting down to put my feet up.

Tip 5. Occupy the Older Kids with their Devices During Naptime.

Likewise, something else I shouldn’t have felt guilt about was allowing my older kids to be entertained while my young children slept.

Thinking I had to constantly school my kids when I was at the point of exhaustion was not balanced.

Homeschooling at all costs, even costing your health is not healthy.

It’s okay to allow kids time to entertain themselves while you rest.

Tip 6. Read.

In addition to using naptime to rest, reading has been one of my best ways to relax.

I read an article that stated: “researchers found that reading is one of the best ways to relax, and even six minutes can be enough to reduce the stress levels by more than two-thirds.“

Too, what I’ve learned now is that even if all we did was reading for the day it was enough.

My kid’s fondest childhood memories are of us reading together as a family.

Reading IS school; all the elements needed for learning like concentration, comprehending, and studying are associated with reading.

When Homeschooling Is Sucking the Life Out of You

Also, reading aloud to your kids has many key benefits, but remember taking time to read what you enjoy rejuvenates YOUR love of learning. That is equally important.

I know you’ll love my book, Homeschooling 31 Day Boot Camp for New Homeschoolers: When You Don’t Know Where to Begin.

5 BEST How to Homeschool Books

I've rounded up some of the best books to help you get started homeschooling.

Tip 7. Do a 4-Day Schedule.

Next, one year I switched to a 4-day schedule and never looked back. It’s true, at home we can accomplish more in less time.

However, until you try it you don’t really know.

When I switched to a 4-day schedule, it was one of the BEST things I did early in our journey.

I took off Monday to have a slower start to the beginning of the week. Taking time to get caught up on house cleaning, meal planning, and bill paying gave me a sense of control when my kids were very young.

As my kids grew older and could help more with chores, I switched to having off Friday as a day to rest and rejuvenate.

Look at my posts Should You Switch to a 4-Day Homeschool Schedule and The Sticking Power of a Solid Homeschool Schedule.

Tip 8. Take Time to Educate the Educator.

Another tip I learned was that some of my part in the feeling of lackluster towards homeschool was I didn’t take time to educate myself.

Why do we not think twice about dropping hundreds of dollars on our kids’ education, but don’t take time to learn how to choose curriculum or how to get organized?

Educating children is rewarding and at the same time it’s one of the most draining jobs I’ve ever done.

I needed the essentials in how to homeschool to smooth my path as I educate my children.

Many years, I ago I taught workshops to new homeschoolers and wrote a curriculum.

Having taught that workshop for 10 years, I now put those workshops online for you.

You’ll love my self-paced online workshops.

How-To Homeschool Courses

Go from Overwhelmed to Got this! The detailed courses: Teaching the Stages of Homeschool, How to Choose Curriculum for Beginners, Homeschool Organization for Beginners, and The New Homeschooler Boot Camp are real eye-openers. You already know homeschooling will give your child the most benefit. Now, take time to educate the person who loves your kids the most – YOU!

Tip 9. Find the Balance Between Rigid and Too Relaxed.

Furthermore, it seems when I’m not feeling the love of how easy homeschooling is supposed to be, I’ve had to look at my expectations.

Many homeschoolers are too rigid, but I’ve also seen more homeschoolers who don’t have a plan for the day.

Find out what your children need.

It’s not always a problem of being too rigid, but it could be you don’t have a list of expectations or a routine for the day.

Your children may need more routine instead doing school by knee-jerk reactions. Ouch. It’s hard to self-analyze – always.

Or, are you so rigid that your children feel crushed under the weight of unnecessary sternness?

Again, you are the only one to make this analysis. Achieving homeschool balance is possible if you’re willing to be flexible.

Tip 10. You are doing more than homeschooling AND your children need to know that too.

Finally, you’re doing more than homeschooling your children; you’re training them far beyond academics.

It’s flat out hard to parent while being a homeschool educator.

They’re intertwined. And you do not want to keep your two roles separate.

Because parenting and homeschooling are weaved together, your kids have responsibilities beyond their academics for the day.

Hear my heart when I say it’s hard to STOP and take time to train your kids to clean, cook, do chores and put away their toys or objects.

However, not only are you teaching them to be independent, you’re instilling pride and confidence.

Many kids who are grown lack self-confidence. Although doing chores is not a complete problem solver, it is a solution.

Chores give kids a sense of pride, belonging, and a way to help others.

Many years I had to accept a kid friendly cleaned house; it wasn’t always easy because I had high expectations.

However, I’m FOREVER grateful that instilled an ethic of hard work in each of my sons.

Is Homeschooling Really Freeing

Now that they have roommates, their roommates thank me for my sons’ positive mindsets and neat and clean habits.

Encourage your child to be a good friend when he is an adult.

It does start with his surroundings, taking care of his room, and other areas in the house.

I love when I get positive feedback from my son’s roommates and moreover I hope in the future, their spouses will too.

Respect comes first from caring for themselves and their area in your home; it pours over then into a child’s live when they’re away from you and now adults.

They extend that same courtesy to others and learn how to truly be happy.

What I’m saying is sometimes homeschooling is a heart problem and not a homeschooling problem.

What genuinely makes kids happy is being fulfilled each day no matter how small the task.

Do not forget that the odds are in your favor for succeeding.

Go slow and remember your kids deserve to know how to take care of themselves, clean, cook, know how to follow a schedule, and take care of others.

Kids will NEVER forget how you SKILLFULLY prepared them for life not just academics.

Don’t forget to think about what brought you to homeschooling in the first place and look up from the pit of despair.

Most circumstances are temporary at best although we don’t feel that way at the moment.

Having an online homeschool group is important too. You need to know you’re not alone. You’ll love my facebook group if you do facebook.

With Power Struggles Give Choices and Freedom

With plenty of rest or even stopping for a bit until you rekindle your love of homeschooling, I hope this heart to heart talk nudges you in the right decision for you family.

From my heart to yours, homeschooling has been worth every bit of stress and tears.

If you’re struggling right now, please let me hear from you. I may not have a solution, but I may be able to steer you in the right direction.

Look at these other tips:

Hugs and love ya,