This is a dedication to my homeschool children.
I know that kids need boundaries, but they’re given the mustn’ts all the time.
So though I know they can’t do all sorts of things…
- They can’t bite each other and write all over their bed covers.
- No, they can’t say things sarcastically and expect someone to eagerly listen to them.
- They can’t drink juice while they’re practicing piano or leave their guitar on the hallway floor.
- They might have an independent, orderly approach to their life, but they don’t have the freedom to organize others’ lives around them.
- And, they won’t decide on vacations or even necessarily influence meal plans.
- They won’t decide on their allowance or if they get an allowance.
I want them to have freedom.
So this is a dedication to my homeschooled children.
They have limitations, they hear “no” endlessly, and they have to rethink their natural inclinations continuously.
I believe they’ll learn through boundaries: how to deal with others, how to care for their things, and how to do a lot of things. But I still want them to hear the message that they’re not entirely limited.
I wish them a world of possibilities: freedom, curiosity, satisfaction, and the pursuit of fulfillment.
To that end, this is my dedication to my homeschool children:
Listen to the mustn’ts child,
Listen to the don’ts,
Listen to the shouldn’ts,
The impossibles, the won’ts,
Listen to the never haves,
Then listen close to me,
Anything can happen, child,
Anything can be!
Shel Silverstein
“My homeschooling journey has included a growing pile of books that I have read, browsed, or barely got past the first chapter. This book is just delightful and a gem! It’s not only helpful and inspiring but also funny. The author is like that no-nonsense brave friend who is looking out for you and your well-being as a homeschooling mama. We all need that friend and I am taking my time as I work my way through the chapters and enjoying it all. I love the section on overcoming overwhelm, grappling with perfectionism, and minding and working through our emotions. This book is worth its weight in gold. Find a quiet place to read, bring a warm cup of tea, and enjoy!”
–Sonia in S. Jersey
People also ask:
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Teresa Wiedrick
I help overwhelmed homeschool mamas shed what’s not working in their homeschool & life, so they can show up authentically, purposefully, and confidently in their homeschool & life.
Beautiful!!!
Thank you. I should add that the poem is authored by anonymous…I wax non-poetically.
I am mostly certain the poem is by Shel Silverstein … a long time favourite and parental battle cry …
Thank you!
I love it and I love this picture! Yes, indeed, she will change the world!
Very lovely!