Indie Business Moms who Homeschool

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by dM, CEO on October 21, 2009 at 8:44pm

Hi Kelly,

Thanks for posting this. I do not home school, but my kids come home from school at 2:00 and the rest of the day is really a challenge for me.

My husband and I work with them for at least an hour on reading, coloring, spelling, etc. We don't overdo it because they've been up since 6:30, but we do want them to know that we have not abdicated our responsibility for educating them just because they go to a school.

They are usually excited to continue learning when they get home so we try to reinforce that. We also don't allow television or any kinds of games during the week so we are challenged to keep them entertained while we work. We live in a great neighborhood where they can play with other kids so that works out well unless the weather is bad.

So, even though I'm not a home schooler, at least for part of the day, I feel the very real tension between my children and my business. Both are priorities, but the practical implications of that vary from day to day. And don't add in the trips to the pediatrician, needing to buy supplies for this or that new school event, dance, soccer and all the rest.

Whew! I'm suddenly tired!!

Anyway, we're here with you girl! I look forward to more people chiming in. We can support and life each other up!!

dM

• ▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Bonnie Annis/Will Roderick on October 23, 2009 at 11:50am

Hi Kelly,

I've been homeschooling for about 12 years now, and I started my business about 3 years ago. I too, find that my business, as it becomes more successful, is taking up more of my time. Sometimes, as I lie in bed at night, I wonder if I'm letting things slip. Then, I wake up the next morning, and get back in the saddle, telling myself that my daughters are strong and smart, and as they get older, more able to be responsible for their own learning.

That being said, we have always been holistic learners, never having used a curriculum. We feel that life, which includes running a business, is full of opportunities to learn. I just try to keep my kids involved, and with me whenever possible. The business requires some travel, so I try to bring the girls with me when I can.

I think the key is flexibility and balance. Sure, some days are going to be heavily weighted towards the business, but I can balance that with other days where I take the time out for my daughters. In other words, I can do everything - just not all at once!

Hope that helps.

Bonnie Annis
L'Moor
http://www.Lmoor.com

• ▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Kelly Ann Taylor on October 23, 2009 at 2:53pm

Hello, Kelly! I am a Kelly, too! Take comfort in the fact that your name means, Warrior. You will not give up, because you see that your work brings profit! And in all labor, there is profit! This is sage advice from a trusted source :)

I understand, know and completely agree. Two weeks ago I worked myself until I got sick, and then remained sick for 2 1/2 weeks. So then, I had to rest and lost alot of valuable time.

Have you considered the A Beka DVD program? This takes considerable pressure off any home school teacher!

Only problems is. some kids who are really intelligent, try to bypass the system and get on with it to get done faster!

Blessings!
Kelly Taylor
http://CassiasKitchen.blogspot.com

• ▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Phenie Sawyer on October 23, 2009 at 8:40pm

Hi Kelly,
It is EXTREMELY difficult to find the time to do both well.

We just started the Florida Virtual School this year, and it is a life saver. Anyone can participate. It is available globally.
The lessons are structured, the teacher communication is one on one and tutoring is available. So far, I have found no downside to this type of homeschooling.
We also have a farm with 25 animals, and it is just myself and my 12 year old daughter. We had to switch to this type of homeschooling.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or suggestions!

Regards,
Phenie
www.meadowgreenfarms.com
904 403 5250

• ▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Rebecca Hunter on October 23, 2009 at 9:21pm

Hi Kelly,

Last year, as I was launching my business, I was homeschooling my then 3 year old son. Even though both of mine sons are now in public school, the school has thrown us into conflict with my business-time because they have gone to a 4 day week Pre-K through 12. I'm back to homeschooling on Fridays by the school district's choice, not my own (2 Frdays per month my older one goes in for tutoring and catch up because he is autisitic and definately has special needs... and I find myself stuck at the school for 2 hours attempting to "entertain" my preschooler... thus we work on "school" stuff too as he looks up to his big brother and wants to have "school time" too. The tiny town where their school is, there is nowhere else to go and winter is nearly here in South Dakota.) The other Fridays I spend at least 1/2 the day schooling in some fashion or another as well.
Some days this takes the form of actually sitting down and working on school papers or workbooks and coloring etc (they are pre-K and K, so the lessons are not hard core yet) Other times we work on building life skills etc. because that is something my oldest needs most. It is amazing what children can learn from a trip to the grocery store if you have a plan on how the kids can help wit hthe task.

• ▶ Reply