6 Secret Struggles of a Homeschool Mom
Homeschooling is great. It’s a fantastic way to teach your child on their level. That said, homeschool moms are liars if they tell you it is all easy. I strongly believe there are at least 6 secret struggles of a homeschool mom. Some of these you may know about. Some you may not. If you don’t agree or think I left one out, leave me a comment. I would love to know what you think.
Homeschool Mom Struggles
Depression
Not all homeschool moms struggle with depression. There are quite a few that do, though. Many homeschool moms feel guilt admitting they are depressed. You see, there is an unspoken expectation of homeschool moms. Because we get to spend more time with our kids and “live the dream” we are expected to always have an unquenchable joy. Depression doesn’t care, though. If you are a homeschool mom struggling with depression know you are not alone. I have been there on more than one occasion. Reach out to a friend and get the help you need to overcome it. You don’t have to keep up a facade. You are worth feeling better.
Financial Struggles
There are quite a few homeschool moms just pinching pennies to break even. While this should be no big deal, it can be. Whether you are paying dues for five different groups, asked to bring a meal you can’t afford, or expected to go out for lunches that aren’t in the budget it can get difficult quickly. If you are a homeschool mom who is struggling financially, know you are not alone. Surround yourself with people who understand and won’t judge you for having less.
Not fitting in
Homeschool mom groups are intimidating. This is even truer if you are an introvert. It can be hard to feel like you will fit in with other homeschool moms. It’s like being back in middle school all over again. Here’s the thing. There are some pretty awesome homeschool moms out there. Be willing to go to the groups and get to know other moms. You may meet a few that just don’t jive with your personality but you may meet your best friend too.
Fear of Failing
Homeschool moms may seem like they have it all together. We don’t. Homeschooling is scary, overwhelming, and intimidating at times. There is a fear of failing that often gets to homeschool moms at some point in their journey. Holding the education of your child in your hands is a heavy task. That said, you are not alone homeschool mom. You can do this. If you are afraid you are missing the mark somewhere talk to a seasoned homeschool mom who will be honest with you in a kind way.
No Time for herself
There are many homeschool moms who invest their entire world into their children. This is a beautiful mess. While it is so important to pour yourself out for your kids, it is equally important that homeschool moms prioritize self-care. I’m guilty of this. No time for the gym, a coffee date with a friend, or a date night with the husband. Homeschool takes over. Guess what, that’s not healthy. Make time for things that have nothing to do with homeschooling your kids. Go to the gym, out for coffee, or set a daily quiet time when you can recharge your batteries.
Feeling Overwhelmed
It’s hard to be a homeschool mom. You are expected to keep a home, educate the kids, maintain friendships, and be there for people when they need you. Let me challenge you homeschool mom, say no. You do not have to do everything for everyone. Focus on the priorities and let the rest fall by the wayside. Trust me, it will get done. You are not superwoman and that’s ok.
I often feel guilty for feeling as though I have done enough hands on, interactive things with the kids. But every time I do I am reminded how much my son in particular would rather read his text, answer his questions and move on! And yet…the guilt.
It’s definitely more important to teach to a learning style. If you don’t have a hands-on learner, go with it. My two live for it…
The feeling of being overwhelmed is the one that is my biggest struggle.
I understand that. As homeschool moms we try to be everything to everyone.
I agree with all of these. They are all so true! Thanks for shedding light on the real life of many homeschool moms!
I have definitely struggled with ALL of these at one time or another. Homeschooling is HARD, but oh so rewarding!
I have, at different times, struggled with all six of these. My current struggle is finding/making time for myself. My husband is a great help in this area though. Our library stays open late (til 8) two nights a week. He encourages me to go (alone), read, blog, enjoy the quiet. Thanks for sharing!
That sounds absolutely lovely. I am always a fan of a good book and some quiet time.
Ya, all that stuff you wrote up there.?
Fear of failing, lack of me time, and getting overwhelmed are my biggest ones!! A very honest look at the subject from a mum’s perspective 🙂
Yes, these are very real struggles. Thank you for sharing about this topic and for your suggestions for how to handle them. I’ve homeschooled for 19 years now, and I’ve definitely had to deal with these issues over the years. And thank you for linking up with us on the Hop post at Hip Homeschool Moms!
I personally struggle with the wondering if I am doing enough…my kids were in public school for so many years and now that we are homeschooling, I wonder if we are on track with the “brick and mortar” schools and I also find it very difficult to not have a teacher that I can go to and get that reassurance!
To be honest, the teachers who will reassure you are out there but there aren’t many homeschool friendly teachers. I would recommend going to your homeschool community and talking to other homeschool moms to see if you are where you need to be.