The FUTURE Of Our Homeschool | Homeschool Room Declutter & Chat

We are in a season of making some changes in our homeschool. Let's chat about how things are going and what lies ahead while I declutter our homeschool room.
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Hi friends! I’m Erin. I’m a homeschooling mom to 4 kids and we’re in our 8th year of this homeschool lifestyle. I love to share videos with tips about things we’ve learned along the way that have helped me out, as well as curriculum reviews and some heartfelt homeschool inspiration. I hope you leave here feeling encouraged that YOU CAN DO THIS!
Thanks for checking out my channel!
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[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

How is your homeschool year going? Are you making any changes?

[@sohappytogether88]

School year is begining here 🇨🇱

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

@@sohappytogether88 Best wishes for an amazing year! ❤️

[@kikik5266]

Meh this year we have car schooled a lot. Sigh joy my favorite thing. Some of my curriculum isnt car friendly.

[@die5plaas]

We change quite a lot for our learning this year. So far the kids are enjoying it and it is so much easier for me to teach them all together. We are doing a lot of unit studies lead by their interests. We started homesteading last year June, so we are currently learning a lot about our cattle, sheep and other animals. This change has brought about my son (11) becoming more interested in reading on his own, which he struggles with when reading aloud, but has improved quite a lot. My oldest daughter (13) is leading the way in terms of themes for our unit studies and she is OWNING it LOL. My youngest daughter (turning 8 in April) has blossomed into this little learner. Sometimes it's a struggle as she just wants to play and then I step back and let her loose so to speak, but she also understands better now, that if she wants to read on her own, she needs to learn how to do it. This has also improved immensely since it is more focused time spent for shorter bursts, since she is a busy bee. I have come to know my kids more in terms of chunks of learning time they can actually handle. They also feed off each other in terms of interests and support each other better that way. So all considered I think this year so far is going splendidly, as I am more relaxed!! LOVING this season we are in!!

[@ChelseaOsicka]

I heard an unschooling mom say once that after a period of sparked interest and deep-diving into learning for awhile there’s always a period of processing that follows it. She said that processing looks different for each of her kids and as the mom/teacher it can look unproductive but it’s actually so key in really soaking up and sorting through the new information and experiences. And when we give it the right time it will naturally lead into another sincere spark of interest etc. so helpful to remember on the days that we all just need to do some processing that that’s a good days work too.

[@tsbehan]

Totally agree with this! John Holt talked about how kids learn in fits and bursts, not always at the same time or for the same amount of time. And he noticed that when children had had their "fill" on a topic, it would be naturally put aside - either to be taken up again or left altogether. In between times, there would be plateaus.

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

That’s such a great way to look at it! I think in our overstimulated, go-go-go world it’s easy to look at the processing as being lazy if something isn’t getting accomplished, but progress is happening, it’s just internal. Thanks for sharing!

[@sdlorah6450]

The generous use of quality read alouds imparts much to our children. This low or no prep style of teaching is one of the things that can really set apart our home schools from other school settings! A great book can be shared with multiple children/ages. Each child will 'get out of' the story that for which they are ready! Simple but effective branch activities include having a child narrate from the chapter, having them write a chapter summary, having chapter discussions around the lunch or dinner table, or completing an art activity based on the book. A field trip to a destination of related interest could cap off the book. Children can follow along in their own copies of the book, too. Rich vocabulary, history, critical thinking, character lessons, and more are almost effortlessly conveyed in this way. Because the learning is integrated and in context it lends to better comprehension and retention. For book ideas, see titles featured in Progeny Press Study Guides or Lamplighter Publishing lists. See the Christian Heroes Then & Now Series by the Benges for exciting missionary biographies. See Honey for a Child's Heart by Gladys Hunt for more ideas on the topic of read alouds. It is good, too, to simply read aloud to your children from the Bible. The ten Boom family enjoyed a chapter at breakfast and a chapter at dinner. Much scripture was stored in their hearts as a result. (See The Hiding Place by Corrie ten Boom for more info.) Such a simple and effective way to invest time in your children! We read aloud through graduation to our children. I still have the last book that we read: Rifles for Watie, a historical fiction book set during the Civil War. Homeschool moms, you are heroes! Regroup, rest, and keep at it! Simplify, simplify, simplify! Converse with your children about the biblical thinking that you are seeking to apply to life! Ask them what scriptures come to their minds about a given thing. Your convictions about the reasons for homeschooling will help to carry you through the tough spells or dry seasons. If your kids are receiving love, care, interest, and protection from you, then they have been given much. If they are hearing rich stories and learning to look at life through a biblical lens, then they have been given much. If they are learning age-appropriate chores around the house and getting to see adults living contented, godly lives, then they have been given much!

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

Agreed! We do most of those things and it’s wonderful!

[@claudialee7909]

Yes absolutely stressed out too! Moving out of our house to sell. Still on oxygen from covid. So going minimalist with the homeschool this week: math lesson everyday, silent reading and mom reads the history lesson and kids narrate. That’s all!!!! Oh the kids are 8 and 9. I’ve graduated three older ones so I trust they will be okay. God will get us through it like always ❤️

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

Sorry you’re in a tough season! Sounds like time well spent for your homeschooling! God is so good to meet us where we are and fill our needs.❤️

[@sofiabravo1994]

I’m an unschooling Christian mom too that uses some Charlotte Mason styles I’m currently pregnant and have been teaching my daughter last year when she was 4 going on 5 now she’s going on 6 my school days vary 2-3 times a week. Our main focus is arithmetic and English plus lots of reading to her, most importantly play play play! I’m almost 18 weeks pregnant and will be unschooling until labor and will take a 2 month vacation hopefully it works out. You’re not alone! I’m going to figure out how to make more space!

[@debk3105]

I’ve been homeschooling my granddaughter and her friend since preK. Now we’ll soon be wrapping up third grade. Both girls are from military families and both families are being reassigned to different locations. Our homeschool days will soon be over. I’m devastated and beyond sad for this to be happening. I’m gonna be lost without my sweet girls. I really envy all of you homeschoolers. Take a break as you need, but treasure each moment of your schooling days.❤️

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

Oh what sweet memories for both of you to treasure! How wonderful that you’ve been able to spend this time together!

[@lv8035]

I think that the Lord is moving in a lot of us moms to really be more in tune to how he created our kids and who he created them to be. After some struggling, I truly felt Him asking me "why are you homeschooling if you aren't benefitting from homeschooling?" Stepping back and sort of unschooling our homeschool has really helped everyone. My four year old isn't left out as much, my two year old isn't causing as much drama and I've seen so much change in the focus of my older two - when it's time to learn, they are ready. It's not how many facts they know, but the technique they learn by & showing them how to pursue their interests like you said. This world needs strong men and women in Christ, and that is the goal. Thank you for sharing your homeschool life!

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

Totally agree! Definitely feeling the need to spend more time on relationships, Bible study and character development in our family!

[@Mikkirose1]

This totally happens. There are times when you lose interest or when the material becomes overwhelming for you or the child. I try to stick to schedule I have created, take a day off, and pray about it. God provides the way, always. Sometimes it's changing the books, sometimes it's repeating a lesson. The most important thing I try to communicate to my children is that there is a way to learn this stuff, we just have to try something different.

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

So great! Definitely important to be actively assessing how we’re doing things and make changes to suit our children’s needs. ❤️

[@amandab.6815]

I really appreciate you, Erin. A lot of the things you have said really resonate with me. The biblical encouragement is so refreshing.

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

Thanks for the kind words, Amanda! ❤️

[@korenhawley8378]

Newish homeschooling mama here of Littles, 4.5yrs and 1.5yr plus 8mths pregnant. I feel the hamster wheel effect. I have yet to create the organization home school office I so desire. Been teach my oldest at home since he was two and was delayed at the time. I knew I would be his best teacher and made the dramatic change to leave the full time workforce and pull him from daycare. Hardest job in the world hands down, as our work is never done.

[@juliewright1895]

It’s so hard to clear out those homeschooling materials that we thought we would love but didn’t. We are in our 19th year of homeschooling and I’ve had to let so many things go. Sometimes it’s a great curriculum but just isn’t a great fit. I’ve also had it happen many times where it worked great for one child but not the next. So hard to know what to save for the younger children, if it will work for them or not or are we just wasting our shelf space? LOL! We’ve graduated our three oldest children from our home school and now we have a 13-year-old and 11-year-old still homeschooling. I love doing subjects together but my last two children are absolute opposites in how they learn. It’s been a tough process to figure out how to school these two because I had a different idea of how I wanted school to look but basically I do things very differently for the two of them now. My oldest loves biographies, workbooks, even textbooks. She’s very independent in her learning and moves quickly through it all. My youngest needs 1:1 help with most subjects and she needs to go very slowly. I prayed about this and I feel like the Lord showed me how we need to do school even though it didn’t look like what we’ve done in the past. It always works better when we listen to him, doesn’t it?!! :)

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

Love that you’ve been in the trenches for a while and can share with those of us that have less experience! It’s amazing how different our children can be and just when we think we have things figured out, the next one doesn’t work the same. 😅 Leaning on the Lord over here to continue guiding us down the right path!

[@soulandtranquility]

I like homeschool people that talk "real". Good video!

[@DansonforJoy]

Thank you for our virtual coffee date! :) (Yes, I actually had a cup of coffee over your video!) I related to your need to declutter - I just did that, as well. It was kind of weird, letting go of educational toys and even books that I had intentionally provided for my children, but it had begun to feel like there was more than the children even used - and when they DID use them, a huge mess was left on the floor. I donated wooden puzzles that were always getting mixed up, a vintage Tinker Toy set that I honestly thought was the coolest, and our big beautiful collection of Connectagons. Nobody ever wanted to clean them up, and I finally realized it wasn't worth the mess any more! (Thanks to Dawn from the Minimal Mom - I binge-watched all her "kid stuff" videos to prepare my homeschool mama brain for this declutter! Haha!) "Where we are" with this homeschool year isn't at all where I thought we would be. We started off the homeschool year with the best groove we've ever had...and then I got pregnant with our sixth precious baby, we had the holidays, and then we MOVED, which was about a month of preparation and a month of settling in. We're basically unschooling the littles right now, and my oldest is thankfully very self-motivated to do her book-work fairly independently. I look forward to getting into that good groove again, but with my third trimester beginning, and then having a newborn, I know better than to set high expectations. I'm going to try to just keep our outside commitments to a minimum so we can take every educational moment as it comes.

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

I love the Minimal Mom! So many amazing tips! It felt so good to get a bunch of stuff cleared out of this room. Now I’ve got a long list of other decluttering projects in other rooms to get to. Sounds like you are focusing on the right things for your homeschool, and so important to not set expectations too high that we end up feeling defeated! Congrats on the new little one soon to join you! ❤️

[@DansonforJoy]

@@TheEclecticHomeschooler Thank you! :)

[@arikawithana3023]

I can completely commiserate with you. In our homeschool, we also have hit the wall so to speak. My 6-year-old boy doesn't want to "do school" anymore...and I kind of feel like saying "me too, buddy".

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

Totally ok to take a break or try something different for a while! Especially at that age. Get back to the place where learning is fun again before you pick it back up. He won’t miss out on anything! ❤️

[@samwatt2211]

We also started out with Singapore math this year and ended up switching to teaching textbooks. They went from hating math to loving it!

[@TeachingTinyDisciples]

Girl, yes! Needed this! I’ve been seeking the Lord more and more in our homeschool. It seems silly I never did before, but my goodness! We have been going more Charlotte Mason. I felt like my kids were doing so much busywork with nothing to show for it… if I have to hold their hand through a worksheet, they aren’t learning it, even if it “looks” like they do on paper! We’ve just been reading and doing oral/written narration. And our day has been much more enjoyable! I also think God led me to your channel. You speak so much on connection with your kids and that’s something our homeschool has been lacking the last couple of years. We started doing morning time, which is much more laid back and all about snuggles and reading and Bible and it’s been so nice! I also organized my homeschool room and completely redid it. I am sharing it on my personal channel over the next few weeks. So tis the season ❤️

[@intentionallymade]

Oh man I’m so glad you shared this video. I feel like we would be friends. I have been feeling the same way. Homesteading is more like a ministry and permaculture has really put me a place of rethinking where I want to put my energy and the whole input and output thing. When our skills and lifestyle in the home changes, so do the things… my husband said the other day that living seasonally isn’t just about decor anymore haha. He knows my heart and when we farm and really learn how to be more sustainable it starts to refine our hearts in a new way. So we decided we have to school seasonally in order to fit our lifestyle and the season we are in literally. Sometimes I let the outside noise get to me but then I have to remind myself why we are doing this. Thank you for being transparent and I really hope I can get to a place of sharing here my own journey with the Lord and how we are using homesteading and all that stuff. I have been doing unschooling stuff too which is great when we all have things we need to do and desire to get done :)

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

Love that! We are working on converting our pasture and orchard and setting up our garden using permaculture methods as well. It’s a big learning process for sure! I’m excited to have our kids help more this year. ☺️

[@christinaclos1820]

This was such a Spirit-led video. Sweet mama, I thank you with all of my heart. I enjoyed *so much* listening to you speak with such grace and truth. Beautiful :) I don't know where you live, but this Kentucky mama sure does wish she could have coffee with you too!

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

Aww, thank you! I always pray for God’s guidance, especially for more heart to heart types of videos like this one. I’m in Washington, so it’d be a bit of a commute! 😉😂

[@christinaclos1820]

@@TheEclecticHomeschooler Well I'm telling you, in today's world, with all the noise and lack of genuine human interaction, I just might be willing to drive it :)

[@thehudsonshub]

Erin, I've been following you for maybe almost a year now but mostly I don't leave a comment on your videos. You are so inspiring. I love how you always incorporate biblical perspective on your life and your homeschool. 😍

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

Aww, thanks for commenting now! My life is built on Him and my identity is in Christ so I can’t not share about Him! ❤️

[@joyfullyhomeschoolingboys]

Definitely ready for it to be done, so I can breathe and prepare for the next school year. Brain overload.

[@MatthewsAdventures156]

We have had a very beautiful and relaxing school year and I think a lot of it is because we are leaning hard into unschooling. It’s very special to watch your kids follow their interests.

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

Love that! Any favorite unschooling book recommendations? I'm looking into this more. 😉

[@kelleyspears5797]

I was in this place as well, and I found a great resource from Karen Rodriguez over at Our House and she has a course on how to run your home like a franchise, it was truly life changing! Her methods have completely changed the burn out cycle for us. The Lord is so good, He will definitely lead you wherever your family needs to be 🙂

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

Oh nice! I’ll have to look into that! Thanks!

[@patriciadimarco8378]

Thank you so much for sharing. I am also feeling so,e pressure and exhaustion.

[@SummerMeyers]

Also just want to say, your editing on this video! Chef kiss!

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

Thanks, Summer! ❤

[@micheleadamson9867]

I've been homeschooling since September and it is stressful, so I've decided that in September they are going back to in person learning.

[@SummerMeyers]

I felt that box of curriculum you are selling. Like felt it deep in my soul! 😂 Not sure if that makes sense, but I literally just packed up a huge box of curriculum that I spent good money on, and consigned for cheap because I needed it out of my house. The extra space it was taking up in our homeschool room was not worth keeping and I found it opened up so much head space and released so much guilt once it was gone. Very relatable! 💕💕

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

Love that! Definitely agree!

[@cfoster0212]

Thank you for sharing this! We are VERY new to homeschooling. I just pulled my 3rd grader and my Kindergartener out of school and we officially started our homeschool journey in January. Our current situation is kind of a mess but its a beautiful mess. We are still trying to figure out what works for us. The past 2 months have really been about transitioning from public school to homeschool so it has been very unschool looking here too. I went in with a plan for the first 3 Months. January would be transition time or de-schooling but my kids were constantly asking for their workbooks for which I did not deny them. February was supposed to be about figuring out our natural routine so that March could be about building structure around our natural routine in an attempt to make our homeschool flow as smoothly as possible. As February progressed my girls got less and less enthusiastic about their workbooks which I also didn't worry about because after all I was still trying to figure out our routine anyway. Now that it is March and I am attempting to add structure for learning into our day, I feel as though the past couple months have gone very backwards from my plan and my kids are resistant to the structure I am trying to build. My oldest wants to learn about outer space so we just started a unit study yesterday that will finish out this school year and then I still have no clue what the heck I am doing but I know we will figure it out thanks to you and other mommas like you

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

I love that you had the mindset from the beginning to de-school and take time to figure things out. So often we place unrealistic expectations on ourselves and then start to feel like a failure if we don’t measure up. The beautiful thing about homeschooling is the freedom we have to morph as we figure out what works for our family and not feel like we have to be tied down to doing things the way the school system does it. Best wishes! ❤️

[@sdlorah6450]

You might like the scheduling resource titled Managers of their Homes by Teri Maxwell. It gives great tips and frameworks; adapt things as needed/necessary. A visit to a state homeschool association convention is a great place to preview books and resources as well as to participate in talks and workshops provided by others on all kinds of topics. We live in PA; CHAP (Christian Homeschool Association of Pennsylvania) always puts on a great two-day event. You do not have to be a member to attend conventions (typically). Prices are usually affordable. If you have never been to a 'serious' HS convention, I would try one! HSLDA also has a great website for homeschoolers.

[@carmenkloppers6334]

We are in the Southern Hemisphere, so it's still the beginning of the school year and things are going well thus far. I have started to incorporate Fun-schooling journals in our homeschool this year and have been loving them.

[@laylaenscoe521]

I'm there with you! It's a very busy season and I feel like I have so much to do. A pastor once said "stop saying you don't have enough time. God gives you plenty of time". So I've been praying the Lord will show me how to better manage my time and prioritize the right things. This time of the year is always busy and I make it through every time! Lol praying for all to have peace and wisdom!

[@Mrs.Housewife15]

I just found you and subscribed. This is year two for us. However we are in a hybrid school as of right now. It's still a public school but its online. I'm pulling them at the end of the year. We are going full homeschool next year. I found a great curriculum (but any suggestions would be nice) and have been watching and finding other homeschool mommas who have been giving me the strength to make that move. It really hit a cord in me when you stated that your son has time to pursue his interest and they have time to process what they learned. With my son it feels like it's too fast for him and that he doesnt have the time to process everything. In 4th grade, he loves computer desgining like game characters and he amazes me with his skills and I want to start hyper focusing on their future careers like another homeschool momma I watch. We live in Northern Lower Michigan (at the Tip Of The Mitt, as its called) and it winter, we are a VERY active family in spring, summer and fall. Wintertime is our down time... lol. My daughter has gym right now and one of the recent lessons was to juggle (like a clown). All I could think is she wants to be an electrician, I could be teaching her stuff surrounded around that instead of JUGGLING plastic bags in my classroom. In the end, I want to thank you for also helping me to know that I can do this and I'm not alone. Much love your way!!

[@emilypanko2434]

Exactly what I needed!! It's that time when you are almost finished with the school year..your burnt-out, ready for Spring/Summer! Why is it we feel like we have to do everything the curriculum tells us..ahhh!! Haha 😄 So good to hear, that we can choose what we want!

[@gamjayhomeschoolmom2595]

Hi ! I feel like You describe ... Thanks again for your video ! From Puerto Rico a Big Hug . Blessings . I pray for wisdom , that full me with love . ❤🙏

[@katrinaweber7878]

I’m in a similar headspace. For me, I think it’s the seasons changing. It’s been a long winter and everything in the world seems dismal and uncertain. I’m anxious for spring and freshness. I’ve been decluttering the house 1 room at a time and planning school for next year. That seems to help inspire me and it get me back in the mindset to be excited to teach and learn and push through this last quarter before summer break! Stay golden!

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

Agreed! So ready for winter to be over so we can spend more time out in the sun!

[@charmagneoman2595]

We have taken a step back from doing so much.. and just letting my daughter explore her art.

[@SharonReads]

We had a pretty good year going, and then we got sick. Still recovering but trying to get mostly back on track. Thanks for the video today. It's encouraging.

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

So glad you’re on the road to recovery!

[@high5_mohini173]

Hey yes this is our first year homeschooling our 2nd grader. I feel like taking spring break with the college students isnt so bad right now. So we discussed this is a spring break with him and he just lit up. Its the time of year to appreciate life blooming around you and thats a school in itself! I do see more activity in the hot months when we are inside more again. Thanks for your video. :)

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

Yes! Love that!

[@marnilove7942]

Interest led learning is my favorite. We’ve made a huge shift from structured classical(CC), though my eclectic self never fit the mold, to interest led learning. It’s been so life giving for everyone! I’ve also discovered the less curriculum I buy the less I have to manage. This year I’ve committed to not bringing more “school stuff” into our home. Other than what my high schooler needed for a few classes I’m using what’s on my shelf already (I did a huge clean out a few years ago), making great use of my library card and you tube and just following my 6th graders lead. It’s been refreshing, fun and so much more manageable. It only took me 13 years to figure that out! 😆 Love your encouragement and honesty! I can’t wait to see where the Lord leads you next! 💗

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

YES!! I’ve never fit any mold for anything in my life! 😅 I’m doing the same and trying to use what we have rather than buying new things and just adding more to the chaos. 🤪 We love the library and KZbin also - and the History channel!

[@bekahroutson]

Hello I just found these videos. I am a first time homeschooler. I ha e felt totally overwhelmed! I have actually been looking back into putting kids back into school. Since we started this year my grandma who helped alot with kids was diagnosed with brain cancer and died 5weeks later, our entire family got covid.. and NOW my husband lost his job due to injury. His work was accommodating but they can no longer do that. I have been super anxious and depressed. I thought this was what God wanted me to do. My kids are older 11 and 14 and they have both said they want to go back to school. I have not gotten even half of what I wanted to get done, done. My son has learning disabilities. I am super overwhelmed. I just needed some advice thanks so much for videos. My kids have been going to Christian school since preschool. I do not know what to do. Thanks

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

Oh mama, I am so sorry for your loss and the extremely difficult year you’ve had. With all of that, and being brand new to this, and the kids being older, I’m not surprised that you’re feeling overwhelmed and don’t feel like you’ve gotten to everything you wanted to do. Even an experienced homeschooler would feel overwhelmed and be struggling with a year like that. You’ve been in survival mode for a while now. Think of the blessing it has been for your kids to be home so you could minister to them during this grief process and period of sickness. You’ve had precious time together. The Lord knew this was going to happen and nothing is out of his control. It helps me tremendously to remember that God is the one leading my homeschool, it’s not in my own efforts. When we can lean into Him and trust Him to carry out his work in us and our homeschool, that make such a difference. The book Teaching From Rest is so helpful in this area. I don’t presume to know all the details of what God wants you to do, but press into Him, seek Him, ask Him and He will show you the way forward. ❤️ “And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.” Philippians 1:6

[@Katie.slaughter_of_YHWH]

Yesterday was my, 'I can't do this, I'm too all over the place to be a good homeschooling Mom.' So we took the day and relaxed and read and played. Today is much better. Yesterday was a gloomy, rainy, cold day after 2 days of 70°, so I think we were all in a funk going from being outside all day for 2 days to being stuck inside and we are over winter! I personally was having hormone changes 😉 of the month and I have noticed during this time I have at least one day when I'm so off and foggy. So we rest that day. I was having trouble comprehending Genesis Chapter 1 during History, ha! Right then I knew it was a vacation day😁 it's pur 1st year homeschooling, 4th, 2nd and have a very busy 5 year old and 2 year old. Lots of adjusting and leaning in to Yahuah and trusting his Word daily. Thank you for posting. It's what I needed today!❤❤

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

That’s so important to learn to take a break when we need it! That’s one thing I’m working on. I tend to go-go-go and just think I need to tough it out and keep busy so I don’t feel lazy. Learning to pause and reset when needed! Glad you felt better after taking a break! ❤️

[@brittanyyates7114]

Yes! We started homeschooling last year in September, I was so excited about it and so were our kids! However, I do have to have "structure" and our school room wasn't done. I have school stuff, EVERYWHERE and it's very depressing 😕. When we first started, I found a bunch of curriculum online that I could just print off and that's what we did...for awhile. After a few months in, I wanted to see exactly what my kids had been taught I public school and I ordered our 22-23 curriculum based on that. Again, this year was mainly a learning curve for me, not just being new to this, but to see exactly where our babies stand on their own learning levels! For our new curriculum I chose to use Spectrum since its more like the public school work, this way I can adjust based on each kid and myself. For the last 2 or 3 months we've been "unschooling" and I've been able to find out more of what my kids are really into (war, history, baking etc.)and now I can incorporate all this into our new school year, also we do have farm animals they get to learn about (big plus for me)! In late November 2021, we incubated chicken eggs for science! Hiwever, the past few days I just feel, blah, about everything 😒. I think it's just stress for me, trying to get our school room done before August and we're remodeling our house little by little.

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

Thanks for sharing, Brittany! You sound a lot like me when I first started. 😉 I realized we enjoy school much more on the couch or at the dining table with snacks so we don’t actually use our homeschool room for any “schooling,” it’s more for storage and ease of access. Try not to put so much pressure on yourself to get it all perfect! Learning can happen anywhere!

[@brittanyyates7114]

@@TheEclecticHomeschooler you're welcome and thank you as well! I think its the stress of not having a place for everything right now that's really doing it for me. Before I pulled my kids out of public school, I prayed like no other for a sign that I was doing the right thing, we had plans to start homeschooling this year, but I felt this overwhelming situation in September telling me to do it now, so I did and I was terrified, but excited 😊! The end of every school year seems to be when we get hit the most with these "what if's, am I doing it right, am I doing enough" questions (at least for me lol), I'm a major overthinker. Definitely not going to stress so much, especially now that we're in March! God blessed us momma's with the most incredible ability, not just to bring babies into this world, but to raise beautiful, individual, kind, loving people! I wouldn't be where I am without God, and I wouldn't be where I am in homeschooling without the help from your videos, so thank you for sharing them with all of us!

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

@@brittanyyates7114 ❤️❤️❤️

[@Mistymegaccinomoments]

I feel you on the decluttering. Minimized to one bookshelf of resources in attempt to things simple but the temptation to add more creeps up from time to time. I am always amazed when God syncs our learning (mine and theirs) through multiple shows, books, resources, websites without my needing to plan a thing. Trying to rest more often in the reality of how much he has got this. He is so faithful. Thanks for sharing, and I look forward to seeing the next video.

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

Oh YES! That reminder that he has got this is so good! What pressure off our shoulders when we can come to that place of surrender and trust in him to work out all the details!

[@Ourhomeschooladventures]

Thank you for sending positive vibes

[@ktrayn78]

It's so hard to get rid of the price purchases and the things I was excited to try in the beginning, but you are motivating me that it is worth it!

[@jenthetford8248]

I feel at the same stage too. Burned out and I know my kids are too. I've been definitely rethinking each piece of our school day and praying that God will help us make changes where we need to as well. I've been neglecting my alone time with the Lord and I think that has gotten me to this point. I think if I adjust that it will change my perspective and flow through to our little school❤️

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

Oh YES! That quiet time with the Lord is HUGE! Best way to start the day! I’d be a wreck without him… 🤪 I’m working on figuring out how to incorporate his word into our school day more as well - our kids need it too! ❤️

[@johnnycanales9569]

Great video! Like the other commenters, we’ve been feeling a change too. Recently I have considered homeschooling three days a week, saving two days to pursue electives. I’m definitely trying to minimize and simplify. I’m way too type A to go full on unschool but slowing down and pairing down is feeling like a wise choice in this season. I have two “Littles” so life is busy. 😄✝️❤️

[@laurawinstead9634]

So we moved in the midst of our homeschool year. We packed our things back at the end of January. And won’t have all our stuff till the end of our school year. It has been hard and stressful but also took out that cluttered and overwhelmed because we don’t have our routines

[@Raising_Arrowsx5]

I just found your channel tonight. I love this video! I was feeling so overwhelmed with our homeschooling a couple weeks ago and almost gave up. I knew the Lord was leading me to continue homeschooling so I had to find a way to recommit. I did just what you did. I got in my schoolroom and I went through everything and reorganized. I ordered a new science unit the would be super fun to do and just reignite my kids. I’m feeling so much better now about the rest of the year! Thanks for sharing your hard!

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

So great! Hope you enjoy your new unit study!!

[@heidi6544]

Yes I’ve been on burnout and very sick of winter cold. I’m hopeful that it will all be better when spring and warmer weather come:))

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

It makes such a difference when the sun starts shining and we can get outside more often! Wishing you all the best! ❤️

[@timothyhaslet8410]

From Beth: year 9 in, and I think those thoughts that spin in our head of wondering if we are measuring up as eclectic home schoolers, if we are doing too much, too little, it is something we have to lay down at His feet, getting His plan. Even as you said in the video. We've been pruning as well. He reminds me to focus on the big things, to let go of "failure" of books not read, curriculum not used, constantly adjusting. Daily is well here, daily is good. But I've had to prune out my expectations and sow my unused things or already used things to others. And just be more realistic. For me. For the kids. 8, 10, 12 and 15.

[@timothyhaslet8410]

I also always schedule a different thing for January's and February knowing I'm going to hit the blahs. I do every year. So noting the pattern I have just planned for it.

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

@@timothyhaslet8410 Great idea!!

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

Doesn’t it all just work so much better when we lay it at His feet? Trying to do it all in my effort just leaves me stressed and overwhelmed. Thankful for God’s guidance!

[@mikahbowden8320]

Yes...21 years here and every year I feel like that I am not doing something just right...my kids do go 2 days a week to a Homeschool, private school and co-op on Friday

[@elizabethress7091]

I was definetly feeling this way for the past few months! Its not that our current curriculum wasnt working because it was but I just kept feeling the need to change something. After prayerful concideration we are leaving behind our boxed curriculum for a more unschooling/unit study style. We are so excited for this new adventure in our homeschooling journey!

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

Love that! We have done much the same! ❤️

[@hisbeloved4206]

I am right with you!! God is good, he called us mama's to homeschool to raise this next generation of leaders! I am learning that sometimes you have to step back, pray, seek the Lord and let the kiddos be kiddos!! After a break, He refreshes and renews us so we can keep going!!

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

Absolutely!! Totally agree with all of that! ❤️

[@FLMegan]

All over the place-the struggle is real and I need to change directions. I need more rest in our homeschool life. The less is more, not checking all the boxes, not doing so much but enough where Joy isn't stolen but the kids are learning. Im going to get it together- videos like this and podcast and books are showing up everywhere. Also chronic illness and homeschooling is hard but harder than I thought so I need more balance. Peace. The vison isn't all there yet but the road is being paved....

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

Yes, mama! Right there with you!

[@aleciahenderson5450]

This was such a timely video! So encouraging to this Mama who was getting discouraged by feeling like I needed to check every box. Thank you for the reminder that as the parent, I can feel free to skip over the boring part and move on the fun stuff! Thank you for sharing your heart!

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

So glad this was encouraging to you! Blessings, mama!

[@dottymcallister5646]

Thank you for sharing.. ive homeschooled many years and still get to this same place sometimes. Its hard to get rid of some books but it feels great to have a cleaner space. I love your shelves and love that I can see you have a log cabin. I dont have one but always love the look of them. :)

[@sarasali1366]

It has been a hard year...started so strong until I injured myself (hip issue) and was laid up for 5 weeks. I tried “bed school” to keep some of the schoolwork going. Luckily my kids are little (5 & 7) so it was ok to let go and let’s myself heal. Then we all battled illness on and off for two months, my dear husband who carried us all through my injury, threw his back out....on and on. I had a dark cloud going into December. Almost like an omen. We lost my dad in New Year’s Day. He had severe COPD and was so ready to meet Jesus. But my world crumbled. So after that the struggle with school was worse, mama was not feeling it! I just turned a new corner last week, and feel more peace than I have in a long time. I did a huge home purge and rearrange after my dad passed (cleaning and organizing is my happy place during chaos)! I also think the return of sunshine is helping all of us (here in MI the winter can be sooooo dark)! Wow, that was a novelette lol. Thank you for your channel, and how real you are. I appreciate you!!💖

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

Oh Sara! I’m SO sorry for your loss! 💔 I’m glad you’re starting to feel a little more peace. Praying for God’s comfort to surround you and restore your joy. Blessings, mama!

[@sarasali1366]

Thank you for your kind words and prayers!! 💖💖

[@sdlorah6450]

I commend you for the investment that you are making in your children of your primary time and energy! Homeschool moms can face periods of doubt, difficulty, and discouragement while teaching their children at home. There are things that they are learning from you as you persevere during these times that are not part of a 'curriculum,' but that provide important life lessons for them nonetheless!

[@juliairvin1606]

I LOVE THAT SWEATSHIRT!!! Do you mind sharing where you got it? I have been burnt out on homeschooling for a lot of this year. So we've been doing the basics for months now. But the Lord has been rekindling an excitement for it in my heart these last few weeks and I am excited about moving forward. I took the time to refresh our homeschool space and home library organization recently and am looking forward to cracking open some of the curriculums I had put a pause on for awhile. I really want to finish this year well.

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

Thanks! It was actually one of my designs in my ETSY shop that I briefly had but is now closed. I just had too many things going on that I had to shut it down…

[@Lovepoppy157]

Very positive … uplifting… and encouraging video ! !

[@ridahunsyiemiong9861]

I have been speaking alot lately about the same verse you said "Thy Word is a lamp......path", it really hit me and you were saying about just having a cup of coffee with ayone here, i feel so blessed, i feel like i know you so well. I love, you always speaking about the Lord, since i love the Lord too. I am so excited to start the homeschooling next year after going through your sharings. Thank you so much. Wish to hear from you someday 🙏

[@salimaakopyan3263]

I’m so glad you said that Singapore math wasn’t a great fit for you. I also bought it at the beginning of school year. But got overwhelmed and felt so bad for giving up on it. It’s a relief to know I’m not the only one. We stuck to BJU, it worked much better for us but in the back of my mind I regretted that I didn’t make Singapore work

[@danahall1282]

Erin I am so with you! I am ready to throw things away!!!! I could sit and cry, cause it is just me. I am 60 almost 61. I have homeschooled for over 20 years. We adopted 3 children (I have 2 biological) one had graduated, the two boys are 11 and 13. With special needs. I fell into wanting all the new curriculum and went crazy listening to all the people on KZbin and I can't expect my special needs boys to do everything my other two children did! I am at wits end. So lost and feeling alone.....

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

I'm so sorry you're struggling, Dana! I can imagine that is so challenging. Are you part of any local homeschool groups or tried looking into some online group resources? I know having a homeschool community is essential to helping combat many of those feelings and to have a support system. There's a list of online special needs homeschooling groups here, maybe one would be a good fit where you can find support. a2zhomeschooling.com/special-needs/special-needs-online-support/

[@danahall1282]

@@TheEclecticHomeschooler thank you so much.

[@aleciamurphy5610]

What a wonderful video! Thank you for sharing. I have been feeling so much of what you expressed and it is always good to know you are not the only one feeling those things 😄 We too started Singapore Math this year and it was not a fit here either 😔 As much as we all wanted it to be. We are back to Teaching Textbooks also. I like Teaching Textbooks. I loved that I had somewhere to go back to when Singapore didn’t work out. I am also nervous about the things said about it though. That it is not enough, that it missing some key components. My boys love Math and excel in Math and I want to make sure I am giving them enough in this subject. I would love to know your thoughts and am looking forward to that video 😄 Thank you for all you do to inspire and promote the goodness and blessing that homeschool is 💓💓💓

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

That’s why I switched to Singapore this year, with the worry that it wasn’t doing enough. But it ended up being the only realistic math curriculum that we could do because I don’t have time to teach math to 4 kids and get anything else done. 🤪 It isn’t as advanced as say, Saxon, but I’ve always done one level higher than my kids grade level and I think that helps offset that.

[@Blessedgal_3897]

So thankful for you. You're always so encouraging. I don't get much encouragement. I've been praying lately a lot for direction of somethings with our homeschool. Blessings to you always!! 💜💜💜💜💜

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

❤️ Thank you for the kind words! Blessings back at’cha, mama!

[@Blessedgal_3897]

@@TheEclecticHomeschooler 💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖

[@sdAmen]

Thank you for this amazing share. I am struggling and it's comforting to hear your words. It has been one of the hardest seasons for us. +

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

You are so welcome. I hope things start to look up for you! Blessings, mama!

[@amybowman5686]

We are going through the same thing as you. I've recently loosened up and we are still reading for fun doing math. We added in nature walks and studies, baking, art projects of their choice. Interest lead learning for science and history. My oldest is writing a book and my youngest just loves learning and drawing animals. So I'm just letting them enjoy! We just got to the point we were dreading learning time. So we are switching it all up. It honestly sounds like we are doing a lot of the same things and your video has helped me know it's ok! Thank you! I can't wait until you shall with us what you will be doing next!

[@ninamiller5595]

Thank you for sharing this. God knows what we need and He takes care of us. Always faithful like you said. In the seemingly small things that we pray about, and the big. I started crying partway through. Its touching to have someone who can relate... Who really knows the daily battles and you also go to our Lord through it knowing we'll just fail doing it in our own strength. Appreciate you so much.

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

❤️ God is so good! Hugs, friend! ❤️

[@millyg226]

Fellow procrastinator here. 😊. It's a challenge. Would love to see how you record keep.

[@blobs9560]

Thank you for this encouragement! It has helped me tremendously to subscribe to your channel. We are brand new to homeschooling because state of Connecticut took away our freedom of RE. Had no idea of new law as I was new to the state. So literally crash course in homeschooling.Thanks to Ron Paul curriculum we have been able to have help..

[@kimjaymama26]

New subscriber here. Loved this video to help me get motivated to finish our homeschool year well. Three more weeks and then I can start the end of year purge and tidy! This is our 6th year and it was the first where I can genuinely say it went well. I am usually frantically searching for new curriculum ideas and organizational tools. But this year we were more minimal and eclectic and I have just found a comfort level in myself as a teacher this year.

[@kikik5266]

I need to declutter so much.

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

I have so many more decluttering projects on my list. This was the first one! 🤪

[@allisonward6621]

Thanks for this video!! I think it came at an opportune time...I am feeling frustrated with my space, it's an unorganized mess right now...it's amazing how messed can leave you feeling scattered in other areas. On another note. How do you unschool? So that you know your kids are watching appropriate videos related to the topic of interest? I love your idea of allowing kids to be interest led learning how do you do this with children who don't seem to want to learn on their own at ALL?

[@mrs.jaywojo5426]

Hi! I would love that cup of coffee and chat too!! This past school year was year 2 homeschooling and my nephew joined us. This coming year is just my 8th grader and 1st grader, which I am starting to plan and organize now. We are in a small place, so I have had to be innovative with space. I was feeling so cluttered, too, but I can see my kitchen table now! There is progress! I am going to subscribe!

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

Thanks for the comment! Blessings in the upcoming year!

[@sandraspies2005]

This was really encouraging, thanks for sharing

[@katiebaker3340]

Just stumbled across your channel via this video! I really appreciated the encouragement!!! It’s been a rough homeschool year over here after a move and other hard things. I really needed the reminder to step back and assess what’s important.

[@amygrant4915]

I have thought about you a lot over the past week, hoping I’d see a video! So sorry you are having to deal with life but so glad you are processing it well! I cannot wait to hear what plans you have. Glad to see you again. Much love and big hugs momma!

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

So sweet, Amy!! Blessings back at’cha! ❤️

[@ruralcanadianmom8964]

Thank you for this video. We are currently working on Canadian Government for social and it is a BORE! I know it's important for my kids to learn our electoral system and how a bill is passed, especially in times like these, however this has been the one topic where all 4 of my kids are not enjoying and can't wait to get it over with. Any ideas in making politics 'fun' and engaging? Sorry if this is off topic. This decluttering video encouraged me to look at my old/unused curriculum and decide whether its worth keeping or not. Thank you for being real. Your videos have been a blessing to me and our homeschool journey

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

I think if you can relate it to current events that can make a difference. Our kids got super excited about politics during our last election cycle in the States. We stopped our normal studies and talked about all the different forms of government and had lots of conversations about the pros and cons of them all. We watched the gubernatorial and presidential debates and speeches by members of congress. Have the kids make a list of what they would do differently. What would their primary objectives be if they were in office? Is there anything they can do now to be involved? (Write letters, visit government buildings or local offices for the party you affiliate with, raise awareness about causes). Best wishes!

[@ruralcanadianmom8964]

@@TheEclecticHomeschooler I did end up booking an online tour of the Legislature building. In prior years the public were able to go for in person tours but for obvious reasons that's no longer an option. I think they'll enjoy going through this tour a lot better than listening to me read the lesson for each day :) . My kids have been enjoying Question Period on KZbin. 😊

[@knowledgecrate9404]

Hi Erin! Thank you so much for sharing our crates ❤️ This was such a great reminder that sometimes its okay to step back and readjust. Kudos to all of you amazing families out there who spend so much time planning and organizing and shifting just to make sure your littles have the best experiences! You are amazing!

[@sarahkey413]

So we are nearing the end of our first homeschool year. I am thinking of trying "year round" homeschooling for the next go. I think spring is going to bring a fresh spark. We are going to try our hand at atarting a nature study, which I am excited about, and we have just ordered a butterfly kit to watch caterpillars grow and turn into butterflies. Hopefully the cold wet slump is coming to an end! Also... I fel like I have still not been successful with science and history.... I think I may try doing one at a time for a period instead of trying to do both. Still trying to figure out how to "get in the things" and have time to... I don't know... sit down at some point during the day?

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

Nature study can be so fun! Definitely only do history or science, don’t try to do both each day! Those do not need to be all year long, especially at the younger ages! We have times when we don’t even do either of them and do art or cooking or something entirely different. ☺️

[@kikik5266]

Yes! 9 years and 4 moves later uhg so much stuff.

[@dionatreitler5924]

It is hard to keep the momentum going after Christmas. I'm personally burnt out. I stress out because it's hard to get my 8yo to focus on learning and it takes us so much longer than needed. I almost want to hand it over to someone else.

[@tempafigueroa9591]

Feeling very similarly at this point in our homeschool year. Definitely hitting a wall and looking into changing some things. Probably going to be pausing our current curriculum and trying something new for the rest of the year. That’s fine to do towards the end of the year, right? 😅🤪

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

Totally fine to do!! Gotta do what’s best for your family. Better to switch it up and enjoy it than to make learning miserable! 😉

[@diversekakes]

Right there with you!

[@ashleyschieber3489]

I relate very much to how you’re feeling. Lots going on up in the mind and within the home and homeschooling! In day 2 of your video, your sweatshirt is awesome!! Where did you get it?

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

Thanks! It was one of my designs in my ETSY shop that I briefly had but is now closed. I just had too many things going on that I had to shut it down…

[@sohappytogether88]

Loved this!!! Yes the Lord has been putting in my heart something similar, I'm tired of being a hamster,

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

🐹 🚫 Haha. Yes. I’m over it! Blessings, mama!

[@javidiqbal4056]

It is a good channel for homeschool.

[@ridahunsyiemiong9861]

Please don't mind me, i love the writing on your hoodie 😊😊😊👍👍👍

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

😊 thank you

[@created2live1]

We are here too. Do you take any time off for spring break? I now have two teenagers at home along with my ten and eight year olds. It's crazy and disorganized here.

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

Yes! We will be taking 2 weeks off in April. I generally try to take a week off every 6 weeks or so!

[@sdlorah6450]

You might appreciate the resource titled Managers of their Homes by Teri Maxwell.

[@CB-wt6uv]

I need this for my whole house

[@kaykathleen1797]

I loved this video. I’m in such a season of burnout as I deal with health issues and family health issues with homeschool on top! This was such an encouraging reminder! Thank you! I tried to click on the knowledge crate link but it didn’t work…is there a discount code I can manually enter to get that 15% (& you credit?). Thanks!!

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

Thanks so much for letting me know! I fixed the link! www.knowledgecrates.com/eclectichomeschooler

[@sdlorah6450]

I just want to encourage you and your efforts during this challenging time for you. I dealt with personal health issues throughout my kids' K-12 homeschool. It was conviction about the 'what' and 'why' of homeschooling that kept me going. I spent more days 'parenting' from the couch than I wanted! Also, one of my children had severe dyslexia, so he was dependent on me throughout for things. Fast forward: I am so grateful that I got to homeschool! I would do it all again if I could! I was imperfect, but we kept at it. My children are now married with children of their own, and they are homeschooling as well! The tips shared on this channel are so helpful and encouraging. It is great that you have resources available to you like this! The message to simplify everything (home/meals/activities/homeschool 'inventory', etc., is worth its weight in gold! A simplified home/school are much more of a pleasure to run and you get to enjoy more 'time on task.'

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

@@sdlorah6450 Such encouraging words! Thank you for sharing!! ❤️

[@thehudsonshub]

I love your hoodie😍

[@constancejackson7986]

I have to say, that when I get to a point where , I think I'm gonna snap or need a break. I need a project that is for me. And only me I tell the kids get back from me. Last night I actually sat down and started working on it. A Bible verse is going to be incorporated in the project. Matthew 28:20 . . . "And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age."

[@Katie.slaughter_of_YHWH]

I love this! A project for me is definitely how I reset, I need to remember this!

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

Such a great tip! Love that!

[@xplusy9999]

Thanks, needed this

[@AB-83]

Oh my goodness I'm so overwhelmed. Firsr year homeschooling, 2nd grade and kindergarten. I bought the package from Abeka and we are only at lesson 77. Both me and my son have ADHD and I also have a very high needs 18 month old. Im so scared they will fall behind because of the constant interruption from the baby. I know this is what God wants for us but I'm drowning.

[@melissap3737]

Dont give up, continue, or switch it up. For my ADHD child I used Explode the Code, Masterbooks for Math, and All About reading, and I use Drive thru history to help teach about history. Dont complicate it, trust me!!

[@zaidarodriguez5037]

Try spectrum my son likes it. He has adhd too.

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

They won’t fall behind! I know it’s easier said than done, but try not to put that pressure on yourself. Every kid develops at different stages and the early years really should be learning through play and hands on activities. Abeka is great, but it’s very traditional school format, which would totally stress me out too. 🤪 Also, keep in mind that you’re kind of in survival mode with a little one in the house. It’s hard for everyone at that stage. Remember that it’s just for a season and this too shall pass. I always clung to this verse during those years. Isaiah 40:11 “He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.” You can find tips about how I managed my homeschool days during years with littles here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gWithK2qd9-Mjdk

[@bethanyatkinson6944]

I use logic of English with my ADHD kid... I have ADHD too, and we both love it. I know during survival mode it's hard to jump on a steep learning curve to pick out your own curriculum, but when you are able to find a ones that fit your teaching style, and your son's learning style it will get easier! I highly recommend Kathy Duffy's 102 top picks. I don't think she sells hard copies anymore (only PDF) but you can often find it in the library. It totally guides you through the process of picking curriculum that fits your homeschool, and then points you to charts where curriculums are graded on their suitability in each category. Much easier to pick from two or three that fit then from the hundreds that are out there. I have taken more breaks than I would like with my kiddos due to babies and interruptions, but they still tested well. You will be amazed how much less time it takes to learn at home!

[@sdlorah6450]

While I think A Beka has excellent materials, they are designed for classroom settings with multiple teachers. Homeschool moms wear many hats (curriculum previewer/buyer, teacher, scheduler, homemaker, errand-runner, nurse, chef, wife); we need to find what works for us and our family and not linger on trying to make a particular curriculum 'work' if its not! (In my experience, children with reading disabilities will struggle with the pace of A Beka's reading program. It is therefore easy to fall behind/become frustrated. For these reasons, I ended up using A Beka materials 'selectively.') There are many wonderful resources out there that will make learning easier/more pleasurable for all of you! In addition to the great tips on this channel, new homeschoolers will find help and encouragement in any of the following: attend a homeschool convention (great place to preview books/resources and to participate in workshops on many topics); read a book about homeschooling (Mary Pride, Debra Bell, Christopher Klicka); locate some homeschooling mothers in your area that could share with you some of their best tips for a successful homeschool; preview materials online (Progeny Press Study Guides, Rainbow Resource catalog, Miller Pads & Paper, Lamplighter Publishing, Explode the Code, Five in a Row [Lampbert], My Father's World, Learning Language Arts Through Literature); look at the resource titled Managers of their Homes by Teri Maxwell [great for planning/scheduling]; see Honey for a Child's Heart by Gladys Hunt (tips and resources for reading aloud to your children from quality books/literature). Also, HSLDA's website is a great resource for info. Best to you as you make this investment in your children and their welfare!

[@priscillaramos3033]

Your little girl is beautiful:)

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

Thank you! I agree! ☺️❤️

[@robyncorson4002]

What does end of the homeschool year mean for home schoolers? I thought it was just schools that took summer breaks?

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

It depends on how you schedule your homeschool. We still take summers off at our house. My kids do a lot of their own self-directed learning but I take a break from requiring things to be done and we don’t use curriculum over the summer.

[@Renewed85]

Burned out. In a rut. The Lord is keeping me going cuz I'm tired. We year round home educate

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

I’m sorry you’re struggling! I’ve definitely been there many times! It’s always helpful for me to take a break during times like that or to try to change things up and do things differently. I’ve got this video with some ideas to try in seasons like that! Hope you’re able to find something to help you out! Blessings! OUTSIDE THE BOX Homeschooling | 20 Ways To Make Learning FUN! kzbin.info/www/bejne/lYWUfJKDl92IiJI

[@cmacl5705]

Hi Erin, have any of your children asked you if they can go to regular school? If they have, how have you handled that?

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

Honestly, they haven’t. They really enjoy the freedom they have as homeschoolers to not have to spend all day in a classroom and to be able to learn about things of their choosing. If they did ask, we would sit down and have a long talk about the reasons we chose to homeschool (our faith being the top of the list) and why that’s important to us. I’d ask them what their reasoning is for why they would like to go and we would talk about that and see if there were ways that we could address those things in another way. We’d pray about it as a family and move forward in the way the Lord confirms.

[@silverbeowulf5601]

Kids are not learning anything..we are miserable every day...I basically hate my family and they hate me. I'm alone and have always have been. I am really feeling how much god hates me.

[@TheEclecticHomeschooler]

Oh, mama! I’m so sorry that you’re having such a hard time. I can feel your pain and frustration. You are not alone. And oh my, how God loves you! He loves you so much that he died to set you free from your burden and give you peace and rest in your soul. (“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30) When we turn to Him, He gives us the wisdom and strength to carry on and shows us the way that is best. He can restore broken relationships and bring healing. (“For you, O Lord, are good and forgiving, abounding in steadfast love to all who call upon you.” Psalm 86:5) Praying for you! ❤️

[@silverbeowulf5601]

@@TheEclecticHomeschooler NO DONT PRAY I HAVE ENOUGH BROKEN FROM BEING CURSED EVERY TIME SOMEONE PRAYS...god never gaves me love just rejection and pain are dispare.. I never want to go to haven ever that would be real hell for me.