Let’s talk about those days.
Not the “He got it!” days.
Not the cute reel-worthy, “Look at my genius!” days.
But the days when one math problem takes forever, and you’re seconds away from tears, slamming a notebook, or saying, “Forget it. We’re done today!”
Yeah. Those days.
Today, my son just wasn’t there. His eyes drifted. His brain floated. And no matter how many ways I broke it down, re-explained it, danced it out, or clapped to make it stick; it just wasn’t clicking.
And you know what?
I got frustrated!
Let’s stop pretending like we don’t!
I know the polished posts are pretty:
🎉 “He finally counted to 100!”
📸 “Mastered addition today!”
But where are the posts that say:
📉 “We didn’t get through two problems in an hour.”
📴 “I had to step away before I exploded.”
This journey is not always peaches and cream.
Some days feel like chewing chalk!
But here’s what I constantly remind myself:
I can get frustrated.
I can pause.
I can even cry.
But what I can’t do… is give up!
Because if I walk out and don’t come back, who will teach him?
He’s my son. And no one wants to see him succeed more than I do!
💡 Especially in homeschooling, you don’t get a sub.
Let’s be honest:
In most households, mom runs this!
We set the schedule, write the plans, teach the lessons, prep the snacks, redirect the meltdowns…and then smile for pictures when it finally clicks!
Dads? You are absolutely appreciated, especially those who are fully hands-on.
But let’s not ignore the truth: a lot of us moms are holding it all together with love and leftover patience.
And still showing up!
That’s why I push through.
Because it’s not just about academics; it’s about heart work. It’s about being the one person who never quits on them, even when it’s hard!
5 Things Homeschooling Parents Can Do to Regain Composure Before Continuing:
We all need resets. Not just our kids…us, too. Here’s what works for me and may help you:
1. Take a Mommy Break (Set the Timer!)
Literally call a “5-minute mommy break” and walk away.
I set a timer and go breathe in the bathroom or hallway. Boundaries are healthy. My favorite reset: 10 deep breaths + prayer. Works wonders.
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2. Speak Affirmations Over Yourself
Say things like:
👉🏾 “I was chosen for this child.”
👉🏾 “Frustration is not failure.”
👉🏾 “I am a patient teacher, even when I feel overwhelmed.”
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3. Turn the Lesson into a Sensory or Movement Break
Instead of forcing the task, try jumping jacks for every wrong answer. Or use math manipulatives with playdough. Change the energy, not the expectation.
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4. Call or Text Another Homeschooling Mom
Vent. Cry. Laugh. Let it out. A 3-minute “girl, today is NOT the day” convo can bring you back to center real quick.
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5. Switch Subjects or Pivot to a Strength
Sometimes the brain (and spirit) just needs a win.
If math is a struggle, switch to art, reading a favorite book, or even feeding a pet together.
That small success can refill both of your cups; so when you circle back later, you’re not running on E.
Raising My Wired King 