How to Create a Thriving Homeschooling Environment

Happy September! With the start of a new school upon us, here is how to create a thriving homeschooling environment!

I’ve been thinking a lot lately about what aspects of homeschooling nurture and inspire us. And on the flip side, I’ve considered what parts weigh us down and leave us questioning our abilities (and frankly, our sanity!)

Because anyone who’s tried homeschooling for more than A FEW DAYS knows that this gig is NOT for the faint of heart!

Throughout my many years of homeschooling, I’ve tried numerous methods and strategies. I’ve discovered tricks for minimizing frustration and avoiding meltdowns. I’ve learned to keep my agenda flexible to leave room for interests as they arise.

And while my kiddos and I still experience plenty of bumps in our homeschooling road, I have learned some super valuable tips that have helped us create a thriving and sustainable homeschool.

So if you’ve been feeling weighed down by the responsibility of homeschooling, or you’re questioning your abilities, these tips might be just the reminders you need to carry on with joy and confidence!

How to Create a Thriving Homeschooling Environment

Tip #1 – Play to your strengths

What are you good at?

Is organization your gift? Or are you more of a “carpe-diem-let’s embrace the mess!” type?

If you’ve got a knack for planning field trips or organizing activities, start here! If you love doing art and baking with your kids, embrace it! If you’re able to create a calm and peaceful environment with background music and piles of books, do it!

Look for ways to incorporate your strengths into your homeschooling rhythm.

Tip #2 – Simplify

Let’s be honest, if we’re not intentional, we homeschoolers have a tendency to overcomplicate things and over-commit. In our quest to provide our children with the very best, we can burn out if we attempt an unsustainable pace.

Most of the time the answer to this dilemma is to simplify.

Start with the 3 MOST IMPORTANT areas you want to cover.

That’s it!

You can always add more later if you’d like. But start simple.

Tip #3 – Outsource

If you really can’t stand teaching math, or you’re overwhelmed coming up with science experiments, or you have no idea how to plan interesting field trips, or dinner is causing you serious anxiety, it’s time to outsource!

Online programs, in-person classes, homeschooling co-ops, neighbors, friends, extended family members, and spouses are all realistic and effective outsourcing options.

There is only so much of you to go around. And homeschooling is not meant to be a one-person show.

Do yourself a favor and identify ways you can outsource.

Tip #4 – Do more of what you love

Crank up the music and dance. Spend more time reading. Do yoga. Go on outdoor adventures. Draw. Paint. Bake. Get together with friends. Light candles. Paint your nails…

You get the picture!

Incorporate as many simple pleasures into your days as you can.

Tip #5 – Laugh

On the most dismal of days, do whatever you can to laugh.

Whether it’s watching funny videos, playing a silly game, doing mad libs together, or telling dumb jokes, laughter truly is the best medicine and remedy for turning a stressful day around.

To Recap How to Create a Thriving Homeschooling Environment:

1. Play to your strengths

2. Simplify

3. Outsource

4. Do more of what you love

5. Laugh

I hope you’re able to incorporate these 5 simple tips to help you create a thriving homeschooling environment!