Is Your Homeschool in a Rut?

Each year we excitedly celebrate our first day of school by enjoying a special breakfast at a nearby restaurant with my husband.  It’s an exciting event for all of us, something the kids and I have grown to anticipate and appreciate over the past 11 years.  But as excited as we are for that 1st day of school, it isn’t long before we seem to get stuck in a rut.

Over the years I’ve had my share of bumps in the road. Some have been minor while some threatened to detour the kids straight to public school.  Though the homeschooling path is not always an easy one,   I’ve learned a few tricks to help me get back on the right track whether we’re already in a rut, or headed for one.

Take Care of You

I’m sure you’ve heard the saying ‘If Mama ain’t happy, ain’t nobody happy’, who hasn’t? Have you ever thought about how true that statement is?  I’ve seen the spirits of my children wither and fade before my very eyes when I’ve spoken or reacted harshly when a much kinder response could have had a much different outcome. My impatience is often the first clue that I either didn’t have my daily morning caffeine dose, or that I’ve been neglecting my needs.

I now recognize when I need alone time. Perhaps I haven’t been faithfully reading my Bible and just need a few moments in the Word or in prayer.  I may need to turn off the computer, ignore the phone, and take a quick walk in the fresh air, a 20-minute power nap, a relaxing uninterrupted hot bath or Midol.  I may need a few extra minutes alone with my husband or a yak session with another homeschool mom. I’ve finally learned to do whatever it takes to ensure that I’m able to give my children my very best.  They deserve it.

Join a Support Group

Over the years, I’ve been amazed by the number of moms that have failed to realize the benefits of homeschooling support groups. A good support system has been such an encouragement to me the times I’ve felt like hanging it all up.  I’ve met many moms who struggle in the same areas I do. I’ve found mentors, and like-minded moms that I can openly discuss my challenges and triumphs with, fellow moms that can pray for me and persuade me to hang on through the tough times.

Today, it’s easier than ever to find the assistance you need. If there is not a group near you, the internet is full of support through blogs, websites, newsletters and online magazines. Though the internet certainly makes things easier, don’t allow online support to take the place of a local group if one is available to you.

Mix Things up a Bit- Step out of the Routine

I know some things like algebra and spelling rules just need to be endured, but try to find ways to introduce some fun in your homeschool!

• Play games
• Watch an educational DVD
• Go on a field trip
• Volunteer to feed the hungry, help the elderly or serve at your church
• Take a class outside the home or an online class
• Host a Homeschool Open House for family and friends (for an added bit of accountability)
• Plan a science experiment only day
• Allow your kids to plan their own day
• Relocate your classroom for a day and do school at a park, local library or Grandma’s!
• Join a co-op
• Do an art project
• Go for a walk or take a hike
• Learn a new skill or hobby
• Have a snowman building contest
• Host an International Night

Evaluate Your Plan

Some families consider homeschooling for a specific, predetermined amount of time.  That could be a year, through elementary school, through Jr. High or all the way, while some families prefer to take it year by year.  After much prayer, before my husband and I even began homeschooling, we committed to continue the path through high school. Knowing this up front has made it much easier to stay on track.

Relax and take the Pressure Off

Homeschooling shouldn’t be a competition. It shouldn’t be a race and you shouldn’t worry about keeping up with the Joneses.  Many of the struggles I’ve ran into along our homeschooling journey have been due to my own insecurities, because I’ve worried about what other people have thought and not necessarily what was best for my children. I’ve burned myself out running to outside classes, co-ops and events afraid that my kids were missing out on something essential.

Homeschool moms put way too much pressure on themselves. Unnecessarily.  I have worried needlessly about grade levels, paper trails and educational gaps before I finally realized that I was focusing on the wrong things. My kids were home for a reason and I needed to focus on teaching MY children and not worrying what every other homeschool day looked like in someone else’s home.   After all, we all have our own set of struggles and unique circumstances.

So before your rut turns into a trench, back up and observe your homeschool with neutral eyes. How are you doing, are you taking care of you so you can meet the needs of your family? Do you have a good support system in place? Are you surrounded by a couple moms that you can be real with? Do you make room for some fun things? Are your goals realistic or are you trying to be something you’re not? Do you know when to cut loose what’s not working?

Your turn: What do you do when you feel a rut coming on?

Tonya can be found blogging about their homeschool ups and downs at Live the Adventure.

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Tagged as: burn out, homeschooling rut, stress, written by Tonya