Homeschooling is a busy life. One that can leave us weary and overwhelmed. So, how do we find rest as a homeschool mom? Homeschool moms are one of the worst when it comes to rest. We honestly don’t have time to rest, but it is important that we MAKE the time.
Homeschool moms have a job that’s 24/7. Between school, homemaking and the kids we rarely stop. If I had to guess I’d say most of us have a to do list a mile long and feel like we NEVER get it all marked off. Right?
We run ourselves ragged and we end up burnt out. Overwhelmed, and oftentimes grumpy with our kids. But, how do we fix it? When we have 100 things to do how can we stop and still get it all done?
The answer? We can’t! But, we have to REST anyway.
Homeschool moms are one of the worst when it comes to rest. We honestly don’t have time to rest, but it is important that we MAKE the time.
Don’t believe me? The University of Washington recently published an article talking about the importance of rest:
Rest is an important part of a healthy lifestyle for all ages. It rejuvenates your body and mind, regulates your mood, and is linked to learning and memory function. On the other hand, not getting enough rest can negatively affect your mood, immune system, memory, and stress level. University of Washington
So, we know it’s important, but how do we get it?
Here are a few ways a homeschool mom can add more rest to her day.
Implement Quiet Time
Have a set time every day where the kids are “quiet”. This could be a movie, nap time, reading time, or something else. I have done this since my kids were little, but I often take the time and catch up on work. Then, I heard Chrystal Evans Hurst speak in a workshop about the importance of her 2-4 time. This is the time each day when she does things that SHE wants to do. Maybe it’s returning a phone call, browsing the web, reading a book, or even taking a nap. She sets that time aside to rest her mind and body and focus on her needs.
Implementing a quiet time each day is an important part of teaching our kids to rest our bodies and minds as well. So, if you haven’t yet, establish a quiet time into your homeschool day.
Shut off the Screens
Another idea is to turn off screen time an hour or longer before bed. Studies have shown that turning screens off before bed leads to a better night’s sleep and more rest for everyone. If you need downtime before bed, consider reading a book, writing with pen and paper, working on a puzzle, or playing a simple board game. Also, keep the phone away from where you sleep. I have started charging my phone away from my bed. Since doing this I am getting out of bed feeling more rested, and I’ve also noticed my sleep is less interrupted.
Find Time to Rest During Your Homeschool Day
As a homeschool mom I know we are SO busy. If you’re like me your day starts early and it doesn’t stop. BUT… we need to stop. We need to rest. And I have found that I do this best by finding quiet moments during my homeschool day. After I’m done working in the morning, and before we start homeschooling, I take a few minutes with my Bible and my caffeine and I sit. In quiet (well as quiet as possible with kids), and I just read. It is a restful way to start my day. Also, find moments throughout the day to step away from the noise. Walk outside. Shut your door and take a breather. If your kids are watching a show, take a moment and read a book. We don’t have to be on the go all the time. That pile of laundry and even those dishes will still be there after we take some time to rest.
Rest is important for everyone, and by implementing rest into your homeschool day you will be a happier mom for your children. No one likes feeling wore down and exhausted, and adding rest time can prevent you from becoming a burnt out homeschool mom.
Misty Bailey is the voice behind the Southeast Homeschool Expo’s Facebook page, as well as one of the convention planners here at the Southeast Homeschool Expo. She has worked in the homeschool market for nearly a decade with a multitude of curriculum companies, and as a former blogger and podcaster. She brings to the table 17 years of homeschooling experience working with her own three children, as well as founding her local homeschool group. Her goal is to encourage and inspire you on your homeschool journey by providing practical tips for real life (not cookie cutter perfection) homeschooling.
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