Accidentally Homeschooling...and beyond

I just did it. I committed 'Blasphemy' in the homeschooling world. Why would we ever copy something that we are so dedicated to avoid? Why would we ever want to become like the 'factory schools'?

This week's blog cruise addresses a common malady that homeschool mothers experience all too often.

I have the unique situation of having children who have experienced public, private and home schooling. I was always amazed at the amount of time that schools take off each month. Between state holidays, real holidays, teacher's in-service, half days, snow days, and school vacations, I noticed there was rarely a strait month of 5 days a week of school. If we homeschoolers would embrace some of these days off, perhaps we would feel less burnt out. I know after a long break, I am actually excited about jumping back into the routine of homeschooling.

I am not saying I always practice what I preach. I drive my kids crazy with this. When we have a Monday holiday, half of the time, we have school that day. For instance on Martin Luther King Day, the public schools were off. My boys were anxious to get together with their friends. It was amazing how diligently they worked knowing when they were finished, I would go pick up one of their friends. I use some of these days of to my advantage.

I take random days off, for things important to us. We choose to take time off when or if it is needed. I can't image weeks strait of schooling. Looking forward to a day off actually eases the current stress. We are planning a day off next month to ski as a family. Will I follow the school calender and have a February vacation? Maybe, if I need it. Just knowing that we have control over our children's school calendar is such a blessing.

I also enjoy the benefit of days off that don't coincide with school vacations. I like to visit museums, attractions and activities when the lines are shorter. I love it when my children have the full attention of the park ranger, museum docent or expert in their field. Our family has experienced great hands on activities in half filled museums.

Are you feeling burnt out? Take a day off, spend it doing something that you love. If that doesn't ease the burn out, see what some of the other crew members have suggested. I especially enjoyed Debbie's long list of advice at Debbie's Digest. Her post has covered it all, including my favorite on her list is: Go on a date with your husband. I think I'll follow her advice this week.

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I welcome reader comments with open arms. I also understand if you aren't the commenting or hugging type of person, you can drop me an email at accidentallyhomeschooling@gmail.com.