Survival Tips for Homeschoolers

It is always a good idea to check what is available in your community for kids. Of course, the public library is always a great field trip as well as museums, parks, hiking trails, and city organized events such as street fairs, youth theater, and concerts. There is no limit to the activities you can get involved in.
I have my children enrolled in a public Charter school, where they have the opportunity to take enrichment classes such as Musical Theater, Scrapbooking, Art, and Inventions. It is a wonderful place where they mingle with kids their own age, as well as learn to take instruction from other teachers. While they only attend "school" two afternoons a week, it is really the perfect balance for our family.
Believe me when I say, there are days that the cons seem to outweigh the pros. The kids are whining and would rather be outside on a beautiful day that sitting at a table working on multiplication facts. I can't really blame them. This is when I grab some clipboards and take their papers outside for a much needed change of scenery. It has taken me years to give myself (and my kids) permission to watch an educational show on "The Discovery Channel" or the "Science Channel" in lieu of reading a text book. This is one of the many reasons for homeschooling! I am not interested in "school at home". My children do not fit into the traditional school mold, nor would I want them to! They are both unique, gifted individuals with different learning styles and with different strengths and weaknesses. This is to be celebrated and encouraged! I am proud of who my children are and that they have gained the confidence to grow into the amazing people they are. I attribute this largely to working with them one-on-one and also for allowing them to learn at their own pace, in their own way.
I could go on forever in support of choosing to educate children at home. After all, who knows our kids better than we do?!

Let's face it, the choice to homeschool, however important and rewarding, is a huge sacrifice. The opportunity to work outside the home is probably going to be compromised and since the kids are with you nearly 24/7, there is not a lot of down time for Mom!
I have found that I need to "re-fuel", so-to-speak, in order to give my kids what they need from me as a mother and as a teacher. It is imperative to find other homeschooling parents to share tips, success stories, and frustrations with. They have most likely been through the same things you have been!
Try to make time for the things that you enjoy, whether it be a good book, time with friends and family, or taking a long walk.
Never underestimate the power of some good old fashioned pampering! Here are some of my favorite ways to relax and unwind after a long day: