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Balancing Life's Demands
By Sharon Bacasmot and Linda Price
Q: Is it possible to have a clean,
organized home, go to music lessons and/or other outside
activities, exercise, meet my husband’s needs, care
for an infant and home school, all at the same time? If
so, how?
A: No, it's not possible! The homeschool mom wears multiple
"hats." She is a wife, mom, teacher, housekeeper,
cook, nurse, taxi, and bookkeeper. In some cases, she is
even employed outside of the home. If salaried, her annual
value would be in the hundreds of thousands of dollars!
As she artfully tries to balance all of these responsibilities,
prioritizing with the Lord's help is vital. You must prioritize,
and homeschooling has to be a priority so that urgent tasks
like housework don't "squeeze out" time to homeschool.
A few thoughts to consider:
1. Trying to do too much leads to stress and burn-out.
Before the Lord, honestly evaluate the "music lessons
and/or other activities." Critically analyze the value
of each activity, as it is so easy to become overcommitted
in this area. It is okay to
say "no." Find a balance that works for YOUR family.
Try to focus on the big picture of what you hope to accomplish
through homeschooling.
2. It's acceptable to have some days when the house is
not terribly clean or organized. Teachable moments and time
for the excitement of learning or experiencing something
new can be MORE important. Homeschooling should allow for
flexibility and individuality.
3. Children need to learn to help accomplish household
tasks in addition to their academic studies. Make this a
daily part of their homeschool day, just like math, science
and language arts.
4. Moms and children both need to have a hospitable perspective
if visitors come unexpectedly and remember that "the
visitors come to see you, not your house." It's o.k.
if things aren't perfect.
5. Moms need to "carve out" at least a few minutes
each day to do something just for herself.
6. Be encouraged to know, "I can do all things through
Christ who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13
If you have a homeschooling question and
would like to “Ask The Veterans”, please put
it in writing to Board@OmahaHEN.org
or to: HEN Newsletter, 2610 Morrie Dr., Bellevue, NE 68147.
We will forward your question along to our veteran moms
who will respond for publishing in a future newsletter.
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or written, is intended as legal advice and should not take
the place of legal counsel from a qualified, informed attorney. |
