Homeschool burnout

When a parent takes on the responsibility of educating his or her

child, homeschool burnout is one of the more common issues they

have to deal with. There are many reasons that lead to this

burnout: an illness, a new baby, added responsibility, change in

routine etc.

The symptoms of burnout vary from lack of patience to overeating

and crying without any apparent reasons. Surprisingly, a burnout

need not be such a bad thing. It is a wake-up call - an indicator

that things are not going well and that you need to reschedule.

Reversing or avoiding a burnout is possible if you get fair

warning.

Firstly, lower your expectations. Do not be a perfectionist. Take

the good days with the bad. Next, when something does not seem to

work, look for alternative methods. Flexibility is a key

factor. If tension starts mounting, take a break. When necessary,

change the style of teaching. For instance, small children love to

take on their spellings when they quiz an adult.

Avoid overkill. Do not pack too many activities for the sake of

socializing your child. A worn out mom means a grouchy kid and

that means no happiness. Get support from your spouse or a

neighbor or a support group. Don't try to achieve everything by

yourself. Homeschooling means 'happy schooling' - don't forget

Read More

After school activities and burnout

For millions of parents around the world, the day does not end with the school bell. There are still pictures to be painted, songs to be sung and games to be played. This all adds up to keeping children happy, safe and out of trouble. But, parents have to steer away from going overboard.

After school is not baby-sitting:

After school activities thrive only if it is backed by sufficient parental involvement. What would a soccer match be without parents cheering their little heroes from the sidelines?.

Research and choose:

Instead of convenience being the decisive factor, find out things that will interest your child. Once you select a program, get the fine print and find out what you have to contribute.

Free time:

Many children attend piano classes, followed by ballet and squeeze in some time for play dates in between just before they rush home in time for bed. This rigor is too much for a child. So, go slow.

When to quit:

Often, parents enroll their child in an activity to discover that he may not be the prodigy they thought he would be. This is the time to let go. Your child may not become the next wonder-kid. But, let him cultivate an interest that he enjoys. Remember, happiness and fulfillment are all that matter.

Read More

After school activities and burnout

For millions of parents around the world, the day does not end with the school bell. There are still pictures to be painted, songs to be sung and games to be played. This all adds up to keeping children happy, safe and out of trouble. But, parents have to steer away from going overboard.

After school is not baby-sitting:

After school activities thrive only if it is backed by sufficient parental involvement. What would a soccer match be without parents cheering their little heroes from the sidelines?.

Research and choose:

Instead of convenience being the decisive factor, find out things that will interest your child. Once you select a program, get the fine print and find out what you have to contribute.

Free time:

Many children attend piano classes, followed by ballet and squeeze in some time for play dates in between just before they rush home in time for bed. This rigor is too much for a child. So, go slow.

When to quit:

Often, parents enroll their child in an activity to discover that he may not be the prodigy they thought he would be. This is the time to let go. Your child may not become the next wonder-kid. But, let him cultivate an interest that he enjoys. Remember, happiness and fulfillment are all that matter.

Read More