One of my biggest struggles this year, my first year to homeschool, has been overcoming homeschool fear.
Am I doing this right?
Are my children learning?
Is it okay to stay on one math concept until my child understands or should I plow ahead like they have been used to in public school?
Is stepping outside the textbook and digging deeper going to throw us off schedule?
Am I smart enough to do this?
Are the kids learning?
Starting out this year I thought it would be easier, challenges fewer, and nay-sayers non-existent. What I have learned is the constant faithfulness of the Lord. Sure, there have been days I’ve wanted to send the kids all back to public school. Days when it seemed like no one was progressing in their work and days when I was tired. On balance we’ve had more days when challenging concepts were conquered than not. What began as a slow year has started to move at a steady pace as the kids are beginning to enjoy the learning process and finding a good routine. To have a self-proclaimed hater of reading beg to go to the library because all her books have been read is just one example of progress.
I’ve learned as much as the kids this year:
1. Give it all to God.
Give Him all the fear, the questions, bad days, and good days. It’s been a year of change for our entire family. It has opened my eyes to weak areas I may not have caught in the busyness of our life prior to homeschooling. Oh, don’t get me wrong, we’re busier now than ever, but I have more one-on-one time with each child. I thank God for allowing me to see areas in need of cultivation in my children’s hearts.
2. In times of transition God’s Word is a source of peace and instruction. “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” I Peter 5:7 NIV “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.” Proverbs 16:3 NIV “Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall.” Psalm 55:22 NIV “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of love, peace, and a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7 NIV
There will be more challenges, changes, and math problems to conquer in the years ahead. Overcoming homeschool fear is no different than any other area of life–total dependance on God and His Word.
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