What do I mean? Well... if you're not careful to strike a healthy balance between work and play (and by that I mean time for yourself) you could end your semester... possibly even your first week feeling deflated. I know this from experience!
I also know what can make your homeschooling journey a more enjoyable event... day after day. So... here are just a few suggestions from one "former-homeschooling mom" (and one who hopes to homeschool again soon) to anyone and anyone currently living out that dream!
1. Join a homeschooling community.
- It gets you and the kids out of the house
- It gives your kids a social outlet
- It gives YOU a social outlet!
- It adds variety to your day, lessons, and perhaps even gives your kids a chance to learn from other homeschooling parents. Maybe someone in your group is a seamstress and you're not! lol
- It adds more life to your lessons
- It gets you out of the house (again!)
- It gives your kids a chance to stretch their legs, breath some fresh air, and appreciate the freedom that comes with being a homeschooled kid!
- It's fun to watch other adults point and say, "shouldn't they be in school?"
- It gives you a chance to unwind, recharge, and focus on something completely different
- It gets you out of the house (yes... this was a huge issue for me! lol)
- It makes you a better mom and teacher when you come back home :)
- If mom isn't feeling strong and healthy, the learning environment will not be all it should be... be sure to get your daily 5 of fruits and veggies, eat plenty of protein, and be sure to take your vitamins!
- Don't fall into the trap of eating convenience foods to save time. Slow down, pace yourself and make as many of your meals from scratch as you can. Make your healthy eating habits part of your homeschooling study. Teach your children now how essential a healthy diet is... even for mom!
- It's healthy for your marriage and for your children who are learning what a relationship should look like by watching yours!
- It gives you a break from house and home and let's face it, when you're home you're pretty much on duty until everyone is asleep. Even afterwords, you're likely up planning lessons, folding laundry and trying to catch your breath.
- It's fun and we all need to have fun once in awhile.
- It makes it easier to remember that you're married and not just in a business relationship or roommates with that man who comes to the dinner table every night. lol This reminder is good for him too. ; )
- It can be an outlet for FREE therapy! lol Find a friend who gets your stuff and find a time in the evening to walk together. You'd be surprised what 2 miles can do for your mind, body and spirit! Uh... and your legs!
- It makes you feel like a real person... having a friend you can spend a few minutes with each day will make you feel younger, happier, and will give you a greater sense of wellness.
- Oh... and it will get you out of the house!
- We called it movie day... it was something we all looked forward to! Grab that favorite DVD you've watched 100 times, or something you just picked up at a RedBox and pop up some popcorn. Close those books and have some family time in front of the boobtube!
- It's healthy, fun, and it just feels good to kick back.
- I'm a different person when I'm in the Word on a daily basis. With the stress and chaos of being a wife, mom and teacher, I can't imagine not spending time with my Savior! He's my parachute when I'm crashing, my rock when I'm sinking, my anchor when I'm drifting and I wouldn't be a tenth of the woman I am today if I didn't know Him! A group study can be very rewarding, but if you can't find one, there are countless devotions and studies available at your local bookstore. :)
- It's as important as diet and exercise... actually more so! Feed your soul and you'll never go hungry!
- It's not recommended for adults to sleep less than 8 hours a night
- It boosts your immune system and will improve your mood
- It sets a good example for your children
- If you don't have a planned bedtime, you could very easily stay up all night working on your computer, grading papers, preparing a lesson, or managing previously unattended to chores. Problem is, you won't be at your best when your kids need you! Ask yourself what's more important and draw a line. It's ok... you can do it!
- You deserve a good night's rest! Seriously.. you do. :)
- It's healthy to share (even with yourself) your ambitions, struggles, joys and triumphs
- It's fun to read later
- Writing is a good creative outlet
- It can be done in just a few minutes a day and is all yours... meaning it's all for you... your thoughts, maybe even your prayers.
- As with walking and talking with a friend, this is a great form of therapy and it's free (minus the paper and ink)! If you blog on Blogger... it's 100% free (minus the internet connection fees! lol)
Best Wishes and Happy Homeschooling!
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