Are you in a season of life where you want to just quit homeschooling? If you’re feeling frustrated or discouraged, read this before making the decision to quit! (And find more homeschool encouragement here!)
I think we all have days when we question if we want to continue homeschooling or not. Maybe you’re experiencing frustration with a child who doesn’t listen to you, feeling like you don’t have enough time to teach, or getting discouraged that your kids aren’t learning enough. Whatever the case may be, it’s really easy to question it all at some point in the homeschool career!
Just know that those feelings are very normal, we all have them, and it’s in no way a sign that you should just up and quit homeschooling! It’s probably just a rough spot, and with some determination and positive thinking, you can work through it.
What to Do When You Want to Quit Homeschooling
Next time you’re feeling discouraged and want to quit homeschooling, read these tips for some encouragement and strength to continue!
Make a List
Sit down and make a list of why you love homeschooling. Think back to when you first began or a time where you were really happy homeschooling. Do you love the flexibility, being able to work one-on-one with your child, or help them work through a learning disability? Really sit down and think up all the reasons why you chose to homeschool to begin with! This will help you cultivate gratitude for homeschooling and remember why you chose this path.
Take a Break
If you are really struggling, take a week off! That is the beauty of homeschooling — that you’re able to create a schedule that fits your family and preferences. Get out and do something fun with your family and rejuvenate yourself. It might be just the mood booster you need, plus it will remind you of the wonderful perk of flexibility that you have as a homeschooling family!
Pray
Make sure to sit down and pray for guidance. Is it just a hard season for you and in a week or two the feelings of doubt or stress will pass? Ask for God to show you if you are to continue homeschooling or not. Take time to spend time with God and truly see if your passion for homeschooling is still there.
— Check out these Scripture Cards for Homeschool Moms!!
Re-Gain Passion
Try to go back to a better time and see how much fun you had with your kids. See how you have changed and taught them over the years. Dig deep to focus on the positives and find your passion for homeschooling again.
Don’t Make Quick Decisions
Make sure you give yourself ample time to sit with the decision before sending your kids to school. You don’t want to regret it later when the feelings of doubt pass. Take the time to weigh the pros and cons of homeschooling before making a quick decision to quit.
Find Other Homeschool Parents
Find other local homeschool parents or even a forum online. Having a homeschool community can be so helpful. Reach out and share with others so that you feel less alone. It will give you perspective and help you see how natural these feelings can be for all homeschooling parents. And they might have some ideas to help get you out of the rut, bring you encouragement, or simply be a listening ear/shoulder to cry on.
Pinpoint The Reason
Take some time to reflect on why you really want to quit. Once you truly pinpoint the reason, try and find a solution to work through the issue before giving up!
Research Options
Before you decide to quit, be sure to look at all your alternative options and resources. See how those options compare to homeschooling. It might help your realize why you chose to homeschool in the first place, or you might find a better route. Just be sure to do your research before making the final decision to quit!
Talk with Family
Sit down and talk to your spouse and children. See what their perspectives are on homeschooling. You might be surprised to find out how much your child enjoys learning at home, spending time with you, and having one-on-one instruction. Just make sure you discuss everything as a family before making any decisions.
More Homeschool Encouragement:
- Bible Verses to Help You Through Your Homeschool Day
- How to Homeschool When You Don’t Feel Smart Enough
- Homeschooling Through Challenges
- 5 Ways to Start Your Homeschool Day Off Right
- How to Overcome a Homeschool Slump with Delight-Directed Learning
- 5 Clues to Inspire a Love of Learning in Your Homeschool