Recently, I was asked how I kept my enthusiam going throughout the year. There are several techniques that I utilize to keep me enthusiastic about teaching my children throughout the year.
First, I schedule breaks in my school calendar. The fastest way for me to burn out and lose my enthusiasm is to overschedule our school work. We will typically do school for 6 to 9 weeks and take a week-long break. I use my curriculum as a guide for choosing when to take a break. And we all come back to our books refreshed once we have a break. This does mean that we might school on a year-round schedule, but it certainly helps keep me from getting burned out.
Secondly, I use a curriculum that makes learning fun. I love using KONOS and the unit study approach to learning. I love learning along side of my children.
Thirdly, I plan field trips to give us a change of pace from hitting the books. Admittedly, we are not able to do a lot of field trips due to budget constraints and the limited amount of time I have for field trips. But, a well-placed field trip is a welcome change to our day-to-day schedule.
Fourthly, I try to get out of the house for a mom's night out or other similar event. I need to get out and recharge my batteries. And a homeschool mom's night out is a great way to relieve some stress. If it does not relieve your stress, don't go! I found that I could get caught up in doing too many jobs for the mom's night out that I was burned out. So be careful of that!
How do you keep your enthusiasm going throughout the year?If you have any questions or comments, I welcome them at orders@dhss.com.
Have a blessed day!Labels: homeschool mom, homeschooling |
