Transitioning From Mom To Teacher In Your Homeschool
Homeschooling is an incredible journey filled with many unique rewards and challenges. Sometimes, transitioning from mom to teacher can be a difficult switch to make. As homeschool moms, we wear many hats and often find ourselves transitioning between these roles multiple times a day.
Unlike a classroom teacher, we’re focused on the whole child and not just academics. Our relationship with our children’s education is deeply personal and rewarding. But it isn’t always easy to fulfill both roles.
I’ve developed a unique perspective on what it means to be both a mom and a teacher. Let’s chat about the struggles and the rewards of fulfilling both these roles each day. We can find encouragement and support for the homeschooling journey together as we strive to educate our children academically, socially, and emotionally.
My Role As A Homeschool Mom
My role as a homeschool mom is different from the role played by a classroom teacher or tutor. I’m more focused on helping her learn how to learn than teaching her to memorize vocabulary and dates.
As a homeschool mom, I strive to help Emily grow academically, socially, and emotionally too. Homeschool moms work to teach the whole child with hands-on activities, experiences, and real-world practice that can’t be recreated in the classroom.
There are so many amazing benefits to this approach for my child and my family as a whole. Since I am focused on cultivating a lifelong learning environment, teaching Emily how to learn, and fostering social and emotional growth, I’m able to tailor our lessons and activities to meet her individual needs.
As a homeschool mom, I approach our lessons with flexibility, individual attention, and an intimate understanding of her strengths and her struggles. My role as a homeschool mom is focused on connection because it’s what matters most in our homeschool.
Transitioning Between My Roles In My Family
There are certainly benefits to being both mom and teacher, but transitioning between my roles in the family isn’t always easy. During busy or chaotic seasons, it can be a real challenge to stay focused on learning and education.
The roles of mom and teacher often overlap. Fortunately, nurturing and educating can happen at the same time. As a homeschool mom, it’s important to me to stay focused on our connection and build a strong relationship. This allows me to meet her emotional needs and keep our bond strong as we learn together.
Homeschooling moms often have a deep understanding of their child’s strengths, weaknesses, and triggers. Sometimes this can help make it easier to provide support during challenging new concepts or difficult seasons.
Ditching the strict schedule and embracing learning as a lifestyle has been a big help. With a flexible schedule and the strong belief that life is filled with learning opportunities for the whole family, I can fulfill my role as a mom and teacher simultaneously.
My Best Advice For Mom Vs Teacher Roles In my Homeschool
If you’re struggling to know whether you should choose the mom role vs the teacher role in any homeschool situation, my advice is always to choose the mom role. As homeschool moms, we are already so much more involved and dedicated to educating our children and helping them achieve their goals than any classroom teacher would be.
Therefore, we can choose to be a mom first. This is the best way I have found to protect our relationship, even when we’re both frustrated with algebra or grammar rules.
No one knows your child like you do. A homeschool mom knows their child’s strengths, struggles, interests, and triggers. Yes, it’s important to provide structure and accountability but don’t let that overshadow the special connection you both have.
When a lesson isn’t going according to plan, lean into your role as a mom every time. Offer encouragement, give yourselves a brain break, or change tactics. As a homeschool mom, you have the freedom to prioritize your child’s emotional well-being over rigorous schedules or predetermined curriculum goals.
After all, homeschooling is about more than academic learning. It’s about creating a lifelong love of learning that begins with trust and connection. Your relationship matters so much more than a curriculum checklist.
More Support and Encouragement For Homeschool Moms
Being a homeschool mom is very rewarding, but sometimes it’s hard too. I want to encourage you and your family on your homeschooling journey.
Join The Waldock Way Community for support and encouragement every step of the way. Plus, discover some helpful words of wisdom and encouragement for homeschooling families:
- Homeschool Mom Guilt: Encouragement and Support
- How to Stay Healthy As A Busy Homeschool Mom
- The Ultimate Book List for Homeschool Moms
- Meal Prep for Busy Homeschool Moms
- Homeschooling When Mom Is Sick
What’s your favorite thing about being a homeschool mom? What are some things you find challenging about transitioning from mom to teacher in your homeschool? Share your thoughts and advice in the comments.