Be realistic. That statement right there is an unrealistic expectation.
Cause we’re homeschool mamas! We have lofty ambitions. For our kids, for their educations, and for us.
So how to deal with unrealistic expectations as a homeschool mama?
Be realistic about what you can do.
Turns out, you can’t do everything.
No, you can’t.
Really, you can’t.
No, everyone else isn’t doing everything.
Actually, NO ONE is doing everything. They’re doing some things. Just as you will be when you honestly, kindly, accept yourself as being a normal human being that can only do so much. And that it is even good enough!
It’s essential to set achievable goals and prioritize what truly matters.
ps You can Use a Time Audit to Address Unrealistic Homeschool Expectations. Conduct a time audit to evaluate how you allocate your time and energy. This will help you identify areas where you may be overcommitting and not leaving margins for dealing with unexpected challenges.
Everyone won’t always get along.
Darn it. (But wouldn’t that be nice if they would?)
No one ever complains about all the cool things you’ve planned for them but they don’t care about it. No one ever bickered with each other, just happily playing alongside one another. They always appreciate their siblings, recognizing that they are creating childhood memories and lifetime friendships.
Conflicts among your children are normal and a part of growing up. It’s unrealistic to expect a perfect, conflict-free environment. Focus on teaching conflict resolution and fostering positive sibling relationships.
ps I know I expected them to but here’s how I learned How to manage unrealistic expectations in our homeschool.
No one ever complains about all the cool things.
Realize that children may not always express appreciation for the effort you put into their education and activities. (In fact, it’s highly unlikely!)
Instead of expecting gratitude, expect satisfaction in knowing that you’re providing opportunities for growth and learning.
Some days you will feel like your homeschool was hijacked.
Because of a surprise trip to emerg, a jarring phone call from afar, or kids that just breathe fire as they pass each other in the hallway, there’s always some reason why your homeschool won’t always go smoothly. In fact, it’ll even feel like your day got hijacked.
Accept that unexpected events and disruptions are part of life. Be flexible and adaptable in your homeschooling approach. It’s okay to reschedule or adjust plans when necessary.
ps Maybe you need a Homeschool Podcast for the Overwhelmed Homeschool Mom.
You have an emotional atmosphere that needs to be attended to.
We have emotional reactions to those days that feel hijacked, and also to the bickering, or to a kid that gets mistreated in the park, or even getting cut off in traffic while we’re driving to piano practice. And that emotional atmosphere needs to be attended to just as we would attend to our child getting mistreated at the park.
Get Your Big Emotions Audit: Recognize and acknowledge your own emotional reactions and expectations. Understand that it’s okay to have high ambitions, but it’s also important to be realistic about what you can achieve.
You have other relationships that need attending.
So many life events can interrupt your homeschool.
Sometimes that discussion you’ve been having with your partner about that issue seems to be getting more agitating the more you discuss it. That issue needs to be settled once and for all so you can be present in your time with your kids, instead of being over there with your partner.
Pay attention to your emotional well-being and address any issues that may be affecting your homeschool experience. It’s essential to maintain a positive emotional atmosphere in your home. Additionally, resolve conflicts or issues in your other relationships to free up mental and emotional space for homeschooling.
This is your big, messy, happy, not always happy, homeschool reality.
Big Emotions Journal for the Homeschool Mom
Are you a homeschool mom navigating the ups and downs of daily life with your kids? Introducing the Homeschool Mama’s Toolbox—a powerful resource to help you manage big emotions like anger, guilt, or overwhelm with clarity and intention.
This journal features guided prompts, mindfulness practices, and Dr. Amen’s three questions for self-reflection, all designed to encourage emotional awareness and purposeful living. You’ll also find a Thought Care Checklist and daily meditation practices to help you handle challenging situations and sharpen your mental tools for a more balanced homeschool journey.
Start your journey to emotional well-being today with this empowering journal created specifically for homeschool moms. Enhance your homeschool experience and show up with purpose for yourself and your family.
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Teresa Wiedrick
I help homeschool mamas shed what’s not working in their homeschool & life, so they can show up authentically, purposefully, and confidently in their homeschool & life.
