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Are you a homeschooler in your 2nd-5th year? Then this podcast episode is for you!
As a seasoned homeschool mom and life coach in the homeschool community, I’ve observed distinct patterns and challenges that arise during this phase of homeschooling.
I explore the three key areas that homeschoolers often struggle with during this part of their journey: deschooling unhelpful schooled mindsets, embracing child-led learning, and managing our own emotions.
So, grab a cup of tea, take a deep breath, and let’s dive into the 2nd-5th homeschool year!
There are numerous challenges that 2nd-5th homeschool years experience, of course: no one homeschool mama is the same as another and they don’t share the same stories either, but here are the most common conversations I have as a homeschool life coach.
1. Deschooling: Shifting our Perspective
By the second to fifth year of homeschooling, many homeschool moms begin to realize that something isn’t quite working as they expected.
It’s important to recognize that the challenge lies not in homeschooling itself but in our mindset and preconceived notions derived from traditional schooling.
Deschooling is the process of reframing how we think about an education and shedding those unhelpful mindsets. It’s about shifting our focus to our child’s individuality, their unique learning style, and our relationship with them.
Letting go of the idea that there is one right way to homeschool opens up a world of possibilities and allows us to tailor education to our child’s needs.
2. Embracing Child-Led & Encouraging Individuality
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to homeschooling.
Really, there isn’t.
Each child is unique, and their learning journey should reflect that individuality.
While various educational philosophies like Charlotte Mason, Waldorf, Montessori, or unschooling offer valuable insights, it’s important to remember that they are not the ultimate solution.
Instead, we focus on getting to know our children, their interests, strengths, and challenges. Child-led learning encourages us to adapt and personalize our homeschooling approach, ensuring a more enjoyable and engaging experience for both mom and child.
By leaning into their natural curiosities and passions, we can foster a love for lifelong learning.
3. Managing Our Big Emotions: Encouraging Our Growth
Homeschooling can be emotionally challenging, and as parents, we must acknowledge and address our own emotions.
Whether it’s doubt, anxiety, frustration, or feelings of inadequacy, our big emotions can impact our homeschooling journey and relationships with our children.
Ignoring or suppressing emotions only amplifies the difficulties we face.
We have to develop strategies for self-care and personal growth, such as seeking therapy, coaching, or engaging in regular journaling practices.
ps you can find free & affordable coaching resources here.
By taking care of ourselves and proactively managing our emotions, we create a healthier and uplifting homeschool environment.
As homeschoolers in the second to fifth year, we encounter unique challenges but by embracing deschooling, child-led learning, and prioritizing our emotional well-being, we can overcome these hurdles and create a more fulfilling homeschool experience.
Remember, there is not one right way to homeschool—your commitment is to your child and their needs.
**If you resonate with these challenges or would like further guidance, I’m here to support you. Feel free to reach out and book a chat with me.
Together, we can reimagine our homeschool lives as 2nd to 5th-year homeschoolers.
Reimagine your Homeschool Workbook
Introducing the Reimagine Your Homeschool Workbook! Reflect on the past year, assess what worked and what didn’t, and build the homeschool you truly want. Evaluate curriculum, routine, philosophy, and plan for the future. Get renewed inspiration and fresh ideas.
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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.
