Encouragement for the homeschooling parent

We are just about to embark on a new journey by beginning a homeschool fellowship group that will meet at our local library two times per month.  We are having our first meeting tomorrow at the Green River Library in Tuxedo, North Carolina from 1-3 if anyone is in the area that reads this blog:)

We wanted to start something that steps outside the box of what the traditional homeschooler does in this area. I know that there is already a large group that offers co-op classes and I think that is a wonderful thing.  One day, as all my little ones are older that might be something that we can do as a family, but for now it is not something feasible for us.  But I still wanted to get my children involved with other homeschooling families, ones that are sitting home wondering where all the other homeschoolers are:) Thus the need.

I had to come up with some topics to discus at each meeting.  Tomorrows will be on encouragement. Anything that we do for an extended period of time can get boring and discouraging.  Life happens, things come up, and we soon wonder why it is we do what we do.  How can we avoid all of this?

We defend our minds

We need to not allow negative thoughts to fester in our minds. If something comes up, immediately deal with it and move on. Don’t dwell on past things and things you cannot change.

Watch the scheduling

Do not overbook the calendar. Be selective in your activities It is okay to just stay at home more than your friends do. It will create a peaceful setting in your home to help focus on priorities.

Grasp reality

It is okay to sometimes speak things out loud. Saying, “I cannot do it all and that is okay!” Focus on what needs to be done, what REALLY needs to be done and let the rest slip away.

Take breaks

It is okay to take the occasional break from “structured curriculum” and spend some time reading good books and getting outside exploring nature with your child. Do something out of the norm and surprise your children.

Smile

Even on days when you don’t feel like it. Let your child see your smiling face. It makes all the difference.
Homeschooling is a journey that we are on, not a marathon. Take each day and enjoy it. Explore and find things out as a family. You will not regret spending these moments with your child.

Be blessed as you embark on a new week!  Amy