Homeschooling is a labour of love, but it’s easy for parents to put their own needs on the back burner. As homeschooling parents, especially mothers, we often prioritize everyone else’s needs above our own. Yet, self-care is essential not just for us, but for the success of our homeschooling journey.
Remember that your well-being is important to Allah. The Prophet Muhammad, sallallahu alayhi wassalam said, “Your body has a right over you.” Take time to rest, eat well, and nurture your spiritual health. Incorporate small moments of self-care into your daily routine, whether it’s through quiet reflection, exercise, or reading Quran.
Honour your season. Some years are just harder than others, and some years are easier than others. Bloom where you are planted, and don’t compare your current season with anyone else’s.
Comparison is really the thief of joy. Everyone has a certain set of family dynamics. Some are dealing with mental health issues, job loss, and caring for elderly parents in their homes; some mothers are required to work while others stay home. There are so many reasons why your homeschool will feel different than others. Focus on the peace in your home, and do not try to emulate what someone else is doing. Try their tips and strategies, but remember that your family culture and dynamic are perfect for you.
Keep your hobbies and your passions ignited! Even if you work on your writing, knitting, painting, or reading habit for just 15 minutes a day, it will be well worth it.
Experienced homeschoolers tell us to set aside one hour a week to study something just for ourselves and one hour a week to give back to the community. This tried-and-true method helps curb resentment when the homeschool load suddenly feels heavy.
Delegate tasks where possible and make a chore chart early. Children can contribute to household chores, and if you have older children, they can teach younger siblings. This not only helps you, but it teaches them responsibility and teamwork. Young children usually love cleaning and helping in the kitchen.
Use online learning platforms like Science BC, Khan Academy or Outschool for subjects like math, science, or history. These courses are taught by experienced teachers.
Hire a tutor for subjects your kids struggle with, whether math, reading, or writing. You can find tutors locally or online through Preply, for example.
Join a homeschool co-op where parents take turns teaching different subjects. This gives your kids a chance to learn with others while lightening your load.
Get involved with local homeschool groups that offer group classes or activities. Some parents specialize in subjects, and you can delegate specific lessons to them.
Form a learning pod with other homeschooling families and rotate teaching. Each parent can teach one or two subjects to all the kids.
Try educational subscription boxes like KiwiCo for science experiments or Little Passports for geography. These come with ready-made activities that your kids can do independently or with minimal supervision.
Use cleaning services to give yourself a break occasionally.
Lastly, remember that homeschooling is not a race. There will be days when things don’t go as planned—and that’s okay! Keep your long-term vision in mind, trust in Allah, and take time to recharge. Your motivation will be renewed when you take care of yourself first.
