So far we’ve covered four school supplies every homeschooling parent should have:
The fifth must-have school supply is something you might not have thought of, but having it is what will carry you through the hard times, the frustrating times and the miserable times (yes, you will have bad times occasionally.) It is a sense of purpose.
Do you know why you’re homeschooling? Is it because you feel called to do it? Or perhaps you saw your child suffering in public school and you decided no one will ever hurt your child in a learning environment again?
Maybe you feel that it’s your duty as a parent, or a patriot (distrust of the liberal agenda in public schools is high these days). Or it’s possible you see homeschooling as the logical extension of parenting, because you realize that parenting doesn’t stop at age six, or four, or whatever the legal age for starting school is in your state.
The important thing is that you have a sense of purpose. Once in a while I run into someone who’s homeschooling because their spouse pressured them into it, or because their best friend is homeschooling and they decided on a whim to do it, too. Those are the people who end up putting their kids in school sooner or later.
A clear sense of purpose will keep you going even when the kids are cranky, and your mother tells you your stress level would shrink if you would just put those kids in school, and your husband complains that his feet are sticking to the kitchen floor, again. Homeschooling ain’t for wimps, but with a strong sense of purpose, you can keep going no matter what so that your children and you benefit from the many blessings of homeschooling.
Wonderful advice. I agree, homeschooling isn’t for wimps. And be prepared to learn a whole lot more about life and parenting than you ever dreamed possible. It’s a blessing, but not without a challenge or two along the way. In the end, it’s all good!
Blessings,
Karen
Great advice from someone who’s been there. Thanks, Karen!
I’ve really enjoyed reading these posts. Very helpful as we are about to begin homeschooling for first grade. Thank you!
How exciting, Amy! Congratulations on your decision to homeschool
You nailed it on the head! Every single one is a must have! I so enjoy your posts….sooo encouraging as we embark on year #2…thank you so much!
Thanks, Karen…..enjoy this coming year