Let's be honest.
Homeschooling is the best. Job. Ever. to most of us. Like, we chose to do it because we love to do it! (Duh!)
But, I like a quote I heard once from Elizabeth Gilbert. Anything--ANYTHING you choose in life whether that be to be a famous author like her, sahm who homeschools, working single person, musician, etc.--anything you choose will come with the bliss that comes from living that dream as well as a sh*t sandwich--i.e. a challenge.
Lemme 'splain.
I wouldn't trade homeschooling my kids for the world. I know I could have tons more time for work, self care, yada yada but I choose to do this because I love it. It's the most rewarding thing I've done with my life.
AND.
Sometimes it be harrrd, girl. LOL. Some days are easier than others, but don't get it twisted--choosing to stay home with your children and educate them is not easy, especially when you have 2, 3, or 4 like me (or more) with all varying needs and very unique personalities.
So, I thought I'd share my go to tips I use when my inspiration wanes to homeschool. And what gets me right back on that proverbial horse.
Leh go:
1. I think of the big picture. Sure, today it might seem like your boobs are a never ending milk machine and you'll always be going over sentence construction or fractions. But, fret not. Remind yourself that one day you will be sipping your wine to celebrate (or kombucha--do you), to toast to your children's graduation. And you can look at them and say "I did dis." (Yes, you and whatever support system you have, but you get my point.) One day, we'll be old and yes--will actually miss these beautifully chaotic days!!
2. I watch or read something inspiring. I love these videos and books to remind me why I do what I do (a few of them). Check them out and tag me online if you have an "ah-ha"! @littlebearhomeschool
YOUTUBE VIDEOS:
I SUED THE SCHOOL SYSTEM (2023)
BOOKS:
The books above are affiliate links. I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase one of the above books I've also purchased. Thanks!
Quotes:
“Imagination is more important than knowledge.”
“Every child is born a genius.”
“It is the supreme art of the teacher to awaken joy in creative expression and knowledge.”
“Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.” -All Albert Einstein
3. I call a friend who also homeschools. If you share your struggles with someone who may not believe in the benefits of homeschooling, they may say, "Girl, quit! You're right, it is too hard!" Nah brah. I've learned this lesson. Call that friend that gets it but also gets your conviction of why you do what you do.
4. Try something new! Break out of the rut. If I'm not having fun teaching, how can I expect my kids to? If they kids are too wiggly, I take us to the beach or library for school instead. If they're bored? I try to make it more engaging by relating their work to a real like matter they care about (ex: my son and Minecraft. Anything related to Minecraft and he perks up like I do when my hubby feeds me).
5. I think of other success stories. Albert Einstein, Abraham Lincoln, John Adams, and many more presidents, artists and inventors were all homeschooled! One of my favorite success stories was John Adams. His mom was a BEAST.
5. GRATITUDE. Good ole' fashioned gratitude...when my inspiration starts to wane when it comes to homeschooling I pause. I remind myself how blessed I am to have the opportunity to do what I do! I remind myself that being their teacher, the one who gets to see all their progress, to see them grow, the one who gets to witness their "ah-has", --it's such a gift.
Let me know if you want a part two of this! I love getting and staying inspired to school my tribe. I hope this helped you in some way and if you did, let me know on social!
And if you need tips to take care of YOU as a mom? Check out my site here.
Sending love your way, mama!
YOU GOT THIS.
Monica