Starting the homeschool journey can be a huge transition! While many of us are well on our path, it’s crucial to stop and look for those just starting. We can help encourage and come beside those who have planned to homeschool or are “accidental” homeschoolers. Here are some tips on how you can support new homeschoolers.
Those first starting steps to homeschooling can seem ginormous! Sometimes it’s helpful to offer to take a new homeschool mom’s kids for a bit of fun while she can sit and gather her thoughts, resources and create a game plan. This is a lifesaver if prep work is difficult for mom to do in a household with lots of littles or an abundance of activities!
Encourage the new homeschool mom by keeping any doubts, fears, or judgments to yourself. Offer a listening ear and plenty of encouragement over multiple cups of tea. Be the calm in the storm if her family and relatives are not supportive!
Since homeschooling is a truly personalized and unique journey, so is choosing curriculum! If asked for an opinion, share your wisdom. If not, just encourage and support!
Like having a new baby in the house, beginning to homeschool also requires adjusting to a new routine. Providing a meal or two to a new homeschooling family is an excellent way to alleviate some stress and show your support!
Be a friend. All too often, homeschooling moms become their own island. We all need someone to remind us that there is life outside of the books. Friendships and personal interests are still meaningful!
When you come across homeschool freebies or group buys, don’t forget to mention it to your new homeschool mom friends! Many times they aren’t as plugged into the stream of knowledge that veterans are.
If you have been blessed with supportive family and friends, consider yourself fortunate! If not, you know the wonderful feeling of finding the support and strength from others in the trenches with you! Whichever camp you fall into, don’t forget to offer support as newbies begin their homeschool journey!
Check out these homeschooling resources at Rainbow Resource Center!
