How to Deal with 'Burnout' As a Homeschool Parent

Burnout is a very real concern of homeschooling parents. Teaching a child at home adds a lot of stress to a parent's life, especially when they don't get the support they need. There are many resources that are now available for homeschool parents to reduce the likelihood of burnout. These resources include support groups, extracurricular activities, and online tutoring.

Homeschool Parents' Support Groups

Since homeschooling has increased in popularity, support groups have been created throughout the United States. Members meet regularly to discuss what is and is not working for them, give each other advice, answer questions and socialize. Being at home all day with children makes some parents feel isolated, so the social component of these support groups is crucial to help a parent avoid burnout. There are other parenting groups that moms and dads can join that are not specifically designed for homeschool families. These groups are just as valuable as homeschool specific groups because they still links parents to other parents. Additionally, it keeps homeschool parents in touch with today's public school system. This is important in case your family decides to integrate your children back into the school system; then you will know what your county and state's educational standards are.

Extra Curricular Activities

Getting children involved in social organizations is another important step a parent can take to prevent homeschool burnout. This is because it gets your child connected to other children and gives you a break from your kids. While your child is playing sports or learning about a hobby or skill that interests them you can relax by yourself.

Parents who do not homeschool their children have a greater opportunity to be social with people their own age. While taking your child's education into your own hands is a noble task, your social life is important, too. The more opportunities you have to relax and get advice from fellow parents, the less likely you are to develop burnout. Parents can find local youth programs by contacting their city's park and recreation department, churches, schools, and looking online.

Tutoring Can Help

Parents can feel inadequate when they meet with the struggles of teaching their children the math or reading skills they need to be successful with other school subjects. Sometimes you need trained, professional help. Online tutoring programs aid families by providing another teaching approach. Parents get a break from teaching for a couple of hours during the week while their child is receiving instruction from a tutor. This eases the tension felt between a parent and child when the concepts are not being fully comprehended by the student.