Mike Smith:
Do you ever wonder if homeschool burnout is inevitable? The first day of school is always exciting. You’ve planned lessons, purchased schoolbooks, and made a schedule. You can’t wait to see what you and your children will learn this fall! But after a few weeks, the only thing you seem to be learning is that teaching your kids doesn’t always go according to plan. For both first-time and longtime homeschoolers, small daily frustrations can take their toll.

You can reduce those frustrations by pausing for a fresh perspective—BEFORE the first day of school. There are some details that you may have overlooked as you buried yourself in curriculum and schedules. Now it’s time to back up and catch sight of the big picture again.

Start by writing down your reasons for homeschooling. Did you decide to homeschool so that your son can bring his reading ability up to grade level? Do you hope that homeschooling will allow you to spend more time with your children? Clarify these reasons ahead of time—before you get distracted by daily routines.

Now, post your reasons on the refrigerator or keep them in your Bible. Throughout the school year, whenever you encounter discouraging situations, remind yourself of why you chose to homeschool in the first place. You’ll gain a renewed perspective that will help you stay focused on your goal.

And until next time, I’m Mike Smith.