I have been called an eternal optimist. I gladly accept the label and hope to always see things in that light. So, how do you see things in a positive light when school is creeping along, attitudes of apathy are threatening to take over your homeschool, and the housework is piling up? How about a small break to refocus and rejuvenate? I have found it to do wonders for me.
Have a little “Me” time. During school each day, have a quiet time where everyone must have some time to themselves. Have quiet activities such as books to read, coloring pages, jigsaw puzzles, making cards, or a deck of playing cards for solitaire are just a few ideas. For little ones, you could have them play with manipulatives such as wooden blocks; threading items onto pipe cleaners, play with foam shapes and letters, or a water painting book. Establishing a quiet time helps children to be independent and occupy themselves, while also stimulating their imagination.
Learn to say “No”. I know I mention this from time to time, but having less to do will create less stress. It seems like I take on all kinds of commitments and then wonder why I am feeling overwhelmed. I have always been a “Yes” woman, thinking I can do it all. Well, I have realized that less is better because I can devote my time and energy to doing a couple of things with excellence instead of more things that are “almost excellent”.
Focus on the positive. There are so many wonderful things happening, so many things we can be thankful for each day. Look back at the beginning of the year and see the progress that your daughter/son has made in school. Has your son learned his colors? Your daughter learned to write in cursive? That is awesome!
Rejoice in the little things. Don’t be looking so far ahead with schoolwork to what you haven’t accomplished, but rather see the small steps you are taking each day to get there. I encourage you not to look at the end of the textbook and wonder how you are ever going to get there, but rather see the pages you are reading and studying today for school. It will get done, you will get there; I promise!
Do something fun! How about playing with your children? You could make or purchase playdough, build an obstacle course, have a sock fight, play Indoor Hide and Seek, build with Legos or Duplos, or bake something. Enjoying a leisurely activity together not only helps ease stress but also helps you to bond with your child(ren).
Have a great week! ~Lisa~
Schoolmarm Ohio 