Homeschool Burnout – It can creep up on you, building up to an emotional wake up call that in some ways is just what you need to get back on track.
This homeschool year might be marked down as my most challenging one yet, including our very first year. If you’re a homeschool parent, you know that says a lot. In all transparency, I lost my focus and motivation in a way that reflected to my kids losing theirs. Over time, I ignored the signs and kept trying to push forward, until it all came to an unsettling realization that put me in my place. I was able to recognize areas that I was slacking on, areas that I wasn’t happy with within our homeschool structure and to acknowledge some distractions that I needed to address. It gave me the opportunity to have an open and honest conversation with my husband and our children on how I was feeling, how they were feeling and what course of action to take from here.
We decided to hit pause on all new lessons and assignments. We made a list of all of the areas we needed to improve on, skills we needed to practice and what changes we wanted to see in our homeschool. I talked with friends who have went through similar struggles and realized that I am not alone. It gave me the push that I needed to remember why we decided to homeschool, hold myself accountable as their mother and teacher, and shifted my mindset back into that “homeschool mom mode”.
Because of all of this, I wanted to share some tips in this area if you might be dealing with these same challenges. You aren’t alone either!
Tips for dealing with homeschool burnout:
- Recognize the signs
- Take breaks
- Adjust expectations
- Change the routine
- Prioritize goals
- Set aside time for self-care
- Lean on your support system
- Take things one step at a time
Recognizing the signs – This is probably the hardest thing to do. I don’t know about you, but for me, admitting that I’m struggling with something doesn’t come easy to me. Especially when it’s something like homeschooling that I’ve put SO much of myself into. It almost felt shameful to admit I wasn’t doing a “good” job. But recognizing that changes needed to be made was the most important step.
Take Breaks – Taking the time you and your children need to refocus and reset is not a step backwards. A break can be just the thing you need, instead of trying to get everything in order in the midst of the chaos. That can feel like trying to sweep the waves back into the ocean. Take a step back and allow yourself time to breathe. Homeschooling isn’t an easy job, despite the freedom it brings.
Adjust Expectations – Homeschooling can change from year to year. As our children grow and curriculum becomes increasingly difficult, we may need to adjust our expectations of what our homeschool days look like or what is taking priority. It’s important to be able to adjust to ensure the best outcomes for our children’s education.
Change the Routine – Our routine is a common thing we have to make adjustments to in order to accommodate different phases we go through in our life, homeschool & otherwise. Sometimes we all need a change of pace to help refocus our motivation.
Prioritize Goals – Make sure you don’t lose focus on yours and your children goals. It’s easy to get caught up with the mundane things of everyday life. But make sure you’re always working towards the goals you’ve set out for as a family.
Set Aside Time for Self Care – This is so important, and something that often gets put on the back burner as a mom. (Speaking from experience). Make sure to prioritize time to do things that bring you joy and peace. For me, that would be spending time with God & long walks around my neighborhood or on the beach. Occasionally a long bubble bath with a cup of herbal tea is in order. Whatever it is that is just for you, make sure you take the time to do it.
Lean on your Support System – Whoever in your life that knows and supports your homeschool journey, maybe even knows first hand what you might be feeling, lean on them. It’s so helpful to have people to turn to when you need encouragement and advice.
Take things One Step at a Time – Once you’re ready to ease back into your new homeschool routine, take things slow. Don’t try to overload yourself right back into that stressful spiral that landed you here in the first place. Take it one step at a time & be patient with yourself and your children.
It’s important to remember that homeschool burnouts are only for a season, not a life sentence. Give yourself grace, take a step back and focus on what truly matters – connection, growth and joy with your children. A reset doesn’t mean failure. It means that you are adjusting to create a more sustainable homeschool experience for your family. Prioritize rest, simplify wherever you can, and trust that every small change will make a big difference. You’ve got this and you are not alone!
