Homeschooling Schedules

Are any of you out there feeling OVERWHELMED with your homeschooling schedules? I am.

Homeschool scheduling is tough. I have so much to do…I really don’t have time to even write this, but I’m going to anyway. Let’s see, in addition to all those things that make up being a wife, mother, homemaker, 4H leader, homeschool group leader and church volunteer…we're remodeling our basement (remodeling one room makes your whole house a mess), I’m trying to tie up some loose academic ends, decide on a plan for next year, prepare a budget for our local homeschool group, attend all the “end of the year” talent shows, recitals, and awards banquets, open up my parents house before they get here for “the season”, plan a birthday party for my oldest (she wants it very small – bless her!), and get Mother’s Day gifts in the mail (and soon!) I’m TIRED just thinking about it, but now I feel better, and maybe you do too, knowing other homeschool moms have scheduling and overcommitment problems.

I have 14 commitments (outside of family) next week. Yes, 14! And I even cancelled 2 to get it down to 14. When I look at my schedule, all I can think is “How did I get myself into this?” I try to say no, but have a hard time. There are so many good things out there, it’s hard to “miss out” on fun opportunities, but there is always a price to pay.

Does this sound familiar? If so, you (like me) have given in to the lure of overcommitment.

Are you tired of being stressed, anxious, overworked and weary?

Take control.

Overcommitment for your or your children does not lend itself to living a balanced life. We all do it, but we regret it afterward. The opportunities available to our children (and to us) are fabulous, making it difficult to pass up on things you think may not be available again.

Selecting activities and opportunities for you and your children is an important skill to master as a homeschool parent. Being able to set priorities, taking control of your family’s time and schedule will enhance your quality of life while meeting the academic, spiritual and social needs of your children.

Here are some tips I learned about making good choices after the episode above:

Examine your schedule and available time.

Prioritize.

Avoid last minute commitments.

Let your “yes” be “yes” and your “no” be “no”.

At the same time, make sure you have some time in your schedule to help others. You will be amazed at the blessings you receive by giving to others.

After realizing the mess I had made with my homeschooling schedules, we decided to forego ALL the fun sounding week long camps that are offered over the summer months. Usually, I look forward to taking my kids somewhere for the whole day so I can have some time to myself to plan and think about the upcoming year. Not that we didn’t do anything…I planned a few close in day trips, spent more time with my parents while they were here for the summer, played tennis with the girls, and had a short family vacation. Most of all, I was so happy to have them home most days playing in the yard with friends!

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