One of the major challenges of homeschooling isn’t actually teaching your children, figuring out the legal implications, or structuring a school day. It’s simply finding some “me” time, or downtime from homeschooling. The importance of “me” time is clear: a burned-out parent is not a good teacher!
One Parent Homeschools
When one parent homeschools, it’s easier to find some “me” time when you need it. If the other parent works, he or she may need to take a day off work, or use a regularly scheduled day off. The parent who doesn’t usually teach the children can take a day to do so, while the parent who usually homeschools takes the day off and goes somewhere. The children will welcome the change with curiosity and an open mind, while both parents will get to do something a bit different for a change.
Both Parents Homeschool
In some households, both parents homeschool, perhaps alternating days, or while running a home business. In this case, the whole family can take a day off. The students can enjoy some unexpected recreational time, while the parents both get a break from the many challenges of teaching. Don’t do this too often, but when used properly, a break can benefit the family harmony enormously.
Group Outings or Day Trips
Homeschooling group outings or day trips are another great chance to get some “me” time when homeschooling your children. If you live in a larger city, there is probably a homeschool group in the area which organizes group outings to benefit all the children. Often, parents are not required to come along, as parents take turns supervising the group. In this case, you can give your children a break from your presence and send them to make new friends and explore new places on their own, giving them a sense of autonomy and independence while taking a breather. Day trips from other organizations like parks and recreation departments are another option.
Recruit Friends or Family
If all else fails, you can ask trusted friends and family to take care of your children for a day. Often, grandparents, aunts, uncles, or close family friends are only too happy to take care of your children for a day to give you a mental health break, particularly if they don’t have kids of their own. Your children will enjoy the break, while you can repay the favor in another way sometime.
Schedule Downtime
The best time to ensure you get “me” time is to schedule “downtime” on a regular basis. This could be as often or rarely as you wish – the first Sunday of every month, every Wednesday evening, or another time that works well for everyone. The kids aren’t required to do anything “educational” (which they will rejoice at!), and the parents can relax.
However lofty your educational goals are for the year, or however much you have to do for your child’s academic career, remember that some “me” time for you is crucial. Give yourself a rest from juggling the many balls that a homeschooling parent has to keep in the air, and take some “me” time regularly.