Starting To Freak Out – Anyone Else Feel Like You're Going To Fail?
Okay, now that home educating is becoming real, I am starting to freak.
Can I do it?
I’m not a naturally organized, structured person.
I am SO scared of failing!
But I’m determined.
I want to home educate…I am excited about it as well…
Anyone else embarking on home educating for the first time? Anyone else totally freaked about failing?
Ahhhhhhhhhhhh…………..
While not embarking for the first time, I wanted to share that the thought of failing doesn't disappear. :) It is an awesome undertaking to be responsible for the education of your child (ren) and that comes with a sense of freaking out. The comfort is that you are not alone not even on your worst days. On a daily basis you will see that they are learning and you are learning as well and your family will be blessed during this journey. Keep the faith!!
.-= Kiva, Farmstead Lady´s last blog post … What I Am Enjoying… =-.
You found me!! :)
There was a book I read that really helped me when Gabriella was still little and I was still riding the fence. It's called Home Educating with Confidence, by Rick and Marilyn Boyer – and it sealed the deal for me. :)
But, I have to admit, even through all my shortcomings, God has shown Himself! I'm learning a lot and I'm learning NOT to look for SO much information, because that's when it gets really overwhelming. Pick some resources that help you and just stick with them. :) For me, The Well Trained Mind and the webinars from Tapestry of Grace's website is sufficient for me. :)
I think my biggest challenge is not homeschooling itself, but it's looking at what everyone else is doing and thinking I should be doing it, too. I have had to let go of that in order to give my children the best of what THEY need – not what other children need. Know what i mean? So when you read other home school blogs, don't automatically believe you *need* or *should* be adopting ALL (or any!) of their ideas or practices.
My advice for beginning, and you'll read this in many places, but it's because it's really good advice..lol…keep the lessons short and focused. Start off with 5 minutes per subject, and work up to 30 minutes per subject by age 5. Keep focused on the 3R's – reading, writing, arithmetic. Everything else is ice cream :)
We always think we should be doing more, but we always do enough or more than enough. :)
I hope this helps!
.-= Christin´s last blog post … Reflections =-.
Okay, girlfriend, time for a little pep talk!
Repeat this: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me!"
Love ya!
.-= Breezy´s last blog post … The Secret CCC Recipe =-.
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart
And do not lean on your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge Him,
And He will make your paths straight."
- Proverbs 3:5-6
.-= Emily Rose @ Simply Vintagegirl´s last blog post … “Put a 7 on the end of it!” =-.
You will learn, it will become your new normal!!!! Don't know if you know but I resisted our decision for over a year. Our 1st year was tough in many ways. Now I would never do it any other way.
;) Carisa
.-= Carisa´s last blog post … 1000 Subscribers Celebration ~ Giveaway #4 =-.
I so feel your pain. Over lunch the other day a friend said to me, "Brooke, God has obviously given you a heart for homeschooling. Why don't you just admit that to your self?" I've been holding back from commiting just waiting for "a sign," while I think the Lord has been speaking to me all along. "Not yet, he doesn't need to leave your home just yet," is what I keep hearing. So I'm scared to death, but walking forward with a new confidence that God will lead us one step at a time.
.-= Brooke´s last blog post … Things no one ever told me… =-.
Starting my 2nd year, and I still feel this way. Yet, I lean on what I Know. To. Be True. If they come away with nothing other than knowing Christ and being passionate for His Word, then mission accomplished. He will equip them for whatever they need for the life He has ordained for them. You know, that abundant one. :)
.-= Kristin Gray´s last blog post … Time Out =-.
I'm getting ready to start year 3 as a homeschool mommy. This year is the first year I'll be home schooling 2 children and juggling my 3 year old and infant besides. It is overwhelming, there is no way to be sucessfull without constantly relying on the Lord. I would encourage you to find two things – a mentor home school parent and a good, reliable babysitter. These two things are vital to being able to know what to do and have the time to lesson plan, do errands, and take a break. Good luck!
.-= Jacquelyn´s last blog post … Home made bread – wrap up =-.
I'm with you! Our "official" start date is tomorrow. This is our first year homeschooling, and as I'm watching all of my kids friends starting or getting ready to start back to school I'm not totally freaking out about my role (I actually feel fairly confident right now… we'll see if that lasts, LOL) – but I AM freaking out a little about what they will be missing at school. I know there are lots of "bad" things they'll be missing, but there are lots of good things, too. Not that what we are doing isn't good (or the best) for them… I just grew up in public school and my kids have been going to school (private) up until now and I'm having a really hard time adjusting to the idea that schooling at home is ok and they will still have friends and all that even if we are home.
I'm new to your blog, how old are your kids? Mine are 4 (5 in Oct), 6½, and 8 (next week)… so pre K, 1st & 3rd grades.
No, but I am freaked out about getting me and my three out the door and into my dirty minivan by 8am to get my son to kindergarten on time. Seriously. Does that count? Will I be wearing my robe? Quite possibly. Will my son have been fed? 50/50 chance. Teeth brushed? Maybe every other day.
You will do just fine and your child will be well fed & teeth will be cavity free. And I'm sure you look great in your robe. You are going to rock it! Go Mrs. Sarah!
.-= wendy hagen´s last blog post … A Comedy of Errors =-.
Totally understand!!!! I so appreciate Christin's advice above – why do we always feel like we must do what other people are doing or we are big fat failures?? :)
Seems like God has to teach me this over and over… He made us uniquely, He gifted us uniquely, He purposely gave us these specific children to love and disciple and train and teach – it wasn't an accident.
Sometimes I rely too heavily on other people's blogs and books and experience. Those things are helpful, and it's important to listen to wise people who are farther down the road… but ultimately I need to listen to what God says, do what He's gifted and equipped me to do, and trust Him!!
.-= Kristi_runwatch´s last blog post … Uncool =-.
I started homeschooling last fall, just a few days a week since my children were young. I had all the same feelings you are having! I am not an organized or structured person, and I had no idea how I would be able to home educate my 2 girls. The Lord has given me so much grace and help, and it has been truly a joy so far. We just started doing 5 days a week, and it is going so smoothly. I am amazed. It is all God, not me, because I know I could not do it in my own strength. I am sure that it will be the same for you!
.-= Erin @ Closing Time´s last blog post … This, That, and Some Veggies =-.
This is our second year. I know that doubt and fear are my weaknesses and Satan regularly tempts me in these areas. If you feel led to homeschool by God, then you are doing the right thing. It is a fact that this chosen path is difficult and truthfully I have accepted that it's not meant to be easy. But if we keep the end goal in sight and rely heavily on God, our children will be better off in the long fun because of our decision to educate them at home. Who better to teach and nurture our children than the family. They will NEVER receive such love and guidance in a public school setting. You CAN do it. Breathe, pray and press on!!!
I just emailed Robinseggblue about how to even get started with homeschooling… the whole idea is very foreign to me. I like the way her (and her daughters) describe their experiences with it. I have a 4yr old, 2yr old, and one on the way in 8 weeks!! Part of me thinks I'm crazy for even entertaining the idea of putting this on my plate right now…. but at the same time I can't let go of the feeling that God wants me to learn more about home education. Robin was gracious with providing resources… so I'm going to check out as much as possible and pray my way through for now!
I enjoy your blog. It is encouraging to 'see' into the life of another momma trying to do the best for God & her family!
.-= Jinger´s last blog post … Tadpole Update =-.
All of my homeschooling friends feel "freaked out" at the beginning! Just remember, you KNOW that with the Lord's help – you CAN do it!! The other important thing to remember is that you don't have to do it just like anybody else. Find out what works best for you and your family.
.-= Lisa @ Stop and Smell the Chocolates´s last blog post … Thinking Out Loud =-.
I am right there with you – except I am just start home pre-school.
Today was our first day and I felt like a total failure. I was almost in tears and wanted to quit.
Until my son come up to me this afternoon and asked if we could do more "class." That was a good sign for me.
Thank you for your post because I was starting to feel a little silly about freaking out over it.
And Breezy, thanks for the little pep talk – even though it wasn't really for me :)
.-= Erin´s last blog post … One Year Ago… =-.
I am terrified of failing. Friday was my last day of work to go back to school full time and to spend more time with my son. I am afraid that financially I may not make it. I wonder if I won't do well at school and fail there too. Failing is something I struggle with every day.
.-= Mindy May´s last blog post … Not My Child Monday! =-.
Yup. this is our third year…and everyday for the past month, I keep telling myself…"Let's finish just this year, then we'll re-evaluate."
This year is strange because for the first time Belle is saying that she really would prefer to GO to school. I really want to homeschool but I really want my kids to want it, too. Of course, I still make the decision, with Dad, but I wish she was excited about being home with us, too.
You'll do fine, and just take a year at a time, or a day at a time…or hour, maybe? ha!
.-= Kristen ~ Pajama Mama´s last blog post … Take a Photoshoot In Your Neighborhood =-.
our family just made the decision to homeschool. i am coming from an early childhood education background, so i am way excited to begin schooling at home. i am freaked out about how to balance the home and schooling. how do i get all the experiences in for my children while also taking care of all the details of our home? i find a bit of comfort in the (charlotte mason) idea of including the kiddos in those tasks. but still… that is what is consuming my thoughts. how can i do it ALL?
.-= jennifer´s last blog post … =-.
My kids are 8, 5, 2, 1 this year and I started last year in November. They were 2nd grade and Pre-K with two year old and a newborn. It was rough!!! Once you start be prepared for God to work on your weaknesses… it is tough, BUT you are probably going to experience a huge spiritual growth spurt. You know what it is like to go through a trial in life… well, you can see the beauty of it later, but not always at the time. Make an effort to just have fun with your kids. You have the rest of their lives to "fix" anything you mess up academically! LOL! Seriously! I invite you to come read my blog. I have some recent posts on this topic and MY insecurities. Also, if you want to see more just click on my "homeschool" labelled topics and read my older posts. I long for the time that I feel secure with my teaching…. or really my patience level. :) It seems you have a wonderful support group right here!! Feel free to contact me directly, if you need some support at littlethings@att.net .
.-= Shannon´s last blog post … =-.
Today, in fact. I have two boys, one three and a half and the other seven months. We have decided to homeschool and I'm just getting started with my oldest. Some people have been very judgmental, angry even at times and it makes me have moments where I questions my own sanity for considering something so…different. But I truly feel it is what I am supposed to do, so I'm just going to pray, ignore the ugly thoughts and keep going!
.-= Annita´s last blog post … Is Being a Mommy and Writer Actually Possible for Me? =-.
So funny you posted this today! I just received the last of our homeschooling books today and realized that meant we could start school! Eek! You are not alone. I'm freaking out with you. :) Thankfully, God's with me. Phew!
.-= Amanda´s last blog post … Hello, old friend! =-.
I think this is a completely normal feeling! I get like this all the time. It is a great task, I too am SO not structured. This year I am setting up a school area to kind of help control the nerves. I guess I feel if I'm organized then that will help me be more successful. Right now for me – organization is KEY!
.-= Heather @ CSAHM´s last blog post … Pottery: Handbuilding or Throwing? =-.
This is my twelfth year of homeschooling and I'm still not naturally, or even unnaturally, organized or structured. Here's a little secret: You don't have to be either of those to homeschool. Here's another secret: You will learn more than your children, including the areas where you are strong and your weak points as well. You will grow and be challenged and you'll get better at some things and not in others and it will all work out because God has an enormous amount of grace available to homeschooling mommies.
.-= Bonita´s last blog post … Blogging Stats and Stresses =-.
Yep, I'm with you.
I've even got an Ed.Degree that should give me a boost of confidence (but it just reminds me that you can't really learn good teaching strategies in school, you have to do it by trial & error). But what I've learned from teaching in the schools is that EVERYONE, even the school house teachers, fly by the seat of their pants some days (even the supper strict organized ones!) Everyone has days where they don't accomplish anywhere near what they intended. Everyone gets stressed out that they will fail. I think a little of that kind of stress is motivating (but too much is demoralizing). Keep it balanced. Your warm cup of coffee in the morning will certainly help to calm the nerves.
.-= EM´s last blog post … Time Managment Envy =-.
I do not homeschool, although there are other major undertakings that impact my families life{and mine} that I have had your same feeling about. In responding to your post, I thought of Anne Lammott's book Bird by Bird. Where she had to write a big long report about birds for school, procratinated, and was not stuck on how to proceed with this overwhelming task. And her dad's coaching to take it bird by bird.
You will not fail. Your children will learn (and benefit so from learning from momma). You don't have to have it all planned and figured out. You don't have to start all the topics/subjects on day 1. Just take it bird by bird. Maybe the first day (week, month?) school is only 1 hour in the day….and then two. Maybe it is just two subjects and then three.
You have all the flexibility in the word and no measuring stick with which to define failure. You love them and you are excited to grow and learn, and somethings like that are "caught and not taught" {As Beth Moore says}
Blessings to you on your new journey.
.-= Sandee´s last blog post … 1000 Blessings {More} =-.
Take a deep breath. You have already been teaching your children. Every day. No one knows your kids better than you do. And remember, school at home doesn't have to look like a traditional classroom. Sometimes the best learning happens with the family all snuggled up on the couch listening to a book a little at a time. It is amazing what they absorb and retain.
Tonight after the kids go to bed I'm going to read all these responses. I'm sure there's a wealth of knowledge to be gleaned from them. Right now, I only have a few minutes. I started reading your blog recently. LOVE IT! You look so young and yet you have so much wisdom! Obviously, that's God.
Just wanted to say that God won't let your homeschooling fail. That is never going to happen; don't give it another thought!
I have four children, ages 7, 5, 2, and 8 months. The house is rarely ever company ready. The only way to keep it company ready would be to spend every spare moment working on it, including the hours after the kids go to bed. When you can let the house go, and just concentrate on the laundry and dishes daily, the homeschooling will be all that you want it to be in no time at all.
So the biggest challenge is not the schooling, but learning to live with a house that is often far less than what your nerves can handle. Just keep in mind that later on, when they are grown, you can have a magazine-worthy house.
I wish homeschooling moms would take photos of their messy homes and post them on their blogs–it would make everyone feel a whole lot better, and many, many moms would relax and really enjoy teaching their children.
It truly is an honor! Thanks so much for sharing your wisdom! Keep on writing!
.-= Pam´s last blog post … Song of Hope – God of Heaven Come Down =-.
I am just entering my 2nd year of homeschooling. Last year when I begun with my daughter in K5 I was pretty excited–and terrified!! I mean, could I really teach my daughter to read? I have only had some college. But you know what? She did great, we made a great team and had an awesome year! Now I'm totally pumped up about this next year, and I'm even adding my 4-yr-old son into the mix with some preschool. That ought to keep things interesting:)
.-= Lora´s last blog post … Menu Plan Monday: Aug 24th~29th =-.
Some perspective–you taught them to talk, right? How did you do that? Did you get organized and make a plan and stick to it? Hmm. Maybe God just created these little minds to absorb information and love learning when we teach them at our sides, disciple-style!
I can pretty much guarantee the learning is going to be on your part–they'll just be picking up information (that's the way it's been with me for the last 23 years) and it will be perfect. Relax and love them and enjoy learning together! If God ordained it, He'll give all of you the right stuff at the right time. It's awesome. I can't wait to hear about your successes!
.-= Ohlookaduck´s last blog post … Living Proof Live in Stockton =-.
We are in week three of homeschooling our three oldest (with a toddler in tow) and yes, I know the freaking out feeling. So much thought and planning and dreaming and reading and preparing goes into it…and then you just have little people looking at you waiting for "school." As a newbie myself I am thankful that I am 1) not trying to do everything 2) Trying to do what works for MY kids and 3) Making sure that learning is a fun experience (for me and for them!) If you have set the foundation already in your home you start to realize that you have been home educating all along…now it just includes math and reading :) Best wishes for you!
.-= Janet´s last blog post … Week Two in Pictures =-.
No matter what path you choose(school/homeschool), you'll always have days like that. Just know that you'll do fine and don't sweat the small stuff. You may not be perfect but you're still mom.
.-= Valencia´s last blog post … Flashback 80's =-.
you are SOOOO not alone! we kicked off last year, and i "failed" miserably, in my opinion. but somehow, my 5 (now 6) year old still learned how to read despite me, and my 3 (now 4) year old still learned all his ABC's, etc of preschool. phew! this year we have a renewed vigor, a new curriculum (which i think was my big hang-up) and a motto that every day is a new day to learn. so even if i mess up today, we have tomorrow to catch up or review, or even take a break to work on character issues. God is merciful.
someone wrote that you should be doing 30 minutes per subject by age 5. i would disagree with that, only because i know my children can breeze through some subjects, while needing more intense time on others. bible and character training happen several times a day, where we only do science 2-3 times/week. it is all about how your child learns.
good luck! i look forward to reading about your progress :)
.-= ginny´s last blog post … In the Car… =-.
Oh girl – it's my 12th year of homeschooling and I am still freaking out. Not for the same reasons, but year in and year out it is a blessing mixed with freak out moments. :)
.-= Jen@Balancing Beauty and Bedlam´s last blog post … Back to School Tradition ideas =-.
You'll do great.
My first year I think my girls learned nothing but I learned A LOT!!
It's the best thing we have ever done!! And I'm getting ready to graduate my first girl!!! Whoo Hoo – 11 years!
.-= Mikki´s last blog post … Our Beach Chair Menu =-.
you're going to do great!!
.-= melissa stover´s last blog post … It's Show and Tell Time! =-.
My mother homeschooled both myself and my brother – and I remember every year having her freak out just a little bit :) It's a lot, but just try to take it one week, or day, at a time. You'll do great!
.-= Corinne´s last blog post … Sugar and Spice =-.
Yes I have completed my first couple weeks of homeschooling. Actually I have felt pretty good about the process until today when I participated in a home-school coop. I am not sure this approach is the best for my youngest child who was the inspiration in why I even set out to home school. It is very memory work driven and that is where she struggles the most. I have been questioning if I made the right choice. Hopefully I will feel better about it next week. Definitely praying for God's favor and inspiration so that my daughter will feel successful and not a failure herself.
We homeschooled our girls thru highschool and the are all grown.
Being anxious is normal. But remember this YOU WON'T FAIL. When they were babies you were a nervous first time mom, but you knew what to do, they were yours. This is no different, just an extension of being a mom.
You are following the Lord's guidance personally and scripturally – "And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up." Deut. 6:7.
When God calls us to do something He equips us and works right along with us.
There is no way you can fail, these are your children. And strangers teaching them 7 hours a day academics only leads failure spiritually, emotionally and mentally.
There will be days when you wonder if you made the right choice, you wonder if you can handle it, but it will work out. We have days like that in all areas of our lives.
No, you will do great and the ONLY way to fail is to not do it. Hugs and Prayer!
I've been homeschooling for 1 1/2 years now. I have seen many posts from people just starting out and they are scared…so you aren't alone. I constantly question if we are going in the right direction but my last two portfolio reviews always help me see all our work in one place and realize we ARE doing ok.
You are scared in the beginning, questioning and doubting throughout but in the end you will finally know that it was meant to be.
My advise is to be willing to change course and have fun!
.-= Linda´s last blog post … Unit Study Resources =-.
Yeah I freaked out and failed. I failed by not even giving myself the chance to try. I freaked out so badly that I put my kids in public school!
At least try it Sarah…
smooches,
Larie
.-= Larie´s last blog post … …of school days =-.
You will do fine!!! Remember, on our own, we can do NOTHING, but through Christ – nothing is IMPOSSIBLE! We're on our 3rd year back homeschooling… God is GOOD! I'm amazed when the kiddos go for their evaluations how much they learned in the 'year'. God bless – I know He will!
We finished the kindergarten year at home (since Feb. of this year). Now we are starting our first full hear of homeschooling. Two weeks into it and things are going well. I was scared/am scared. My strategy is to only think about what we have to accomplish today (maybe look ahead a week for planning). It helps me to know that there are so many other moms doing the same thing. Just seeing how much response there is to this one post of yours is encouraging.
.-= Stacie @ newmommyhelp.net´s last blog post … Feel Like A Failure? Encourage Another Mommy =-.
Just wanted to say that I have homeschooled Kiddo now for 4 years…this is our 5th…and the fear of failing is with me every. single. year. You'll be fine. I just have to lay it at the feet of Jesus every year. Heck, every DAY! Today was one of those he's-going-to-public-school-I-can't-do-this-anymore days. But, until God tells me it's time, I will continue to lay it (and my child) at the feet of Jesus and educate him at home. Because HE'S the one who told us to do it in the first place. I'm good with that.
.-= Heathahlee´s last blog post … Homeschooling is Very Educational =-.
I've homeschooled all my four boys all their lives (the oldest is 11-6th grade). I've gone through my feelings of failure, am I doing enough? what am I doing? etc… But, I've finally come to a place where I think and believe that God has put it on my heart to be my children's educator. I know them better than anyone else. I know their needs (do a lot of reading yourself to know what THEY need to know at their level) and I can customize their education! How awesome is that!! You get to parent them and guide their little hearts while you teach them their abc's and 123's. Keep it simple, push them as far as they will go academically, move on their pace. My 9 year old would have gone to 4th grade in our local school system, but is going to 5th grade at home and does a lot of higher level grade work with his older brother, JUST BECAUSE HE CAN!! He would be a troublemaker in a day school!! ;)
Don't freak out, read, educate yourself, the early years are fun and exciting. Teach them what they are interested in and explore our world God gave us. He will help you along your journey.
.-= The Topiary Lady´s last blog post … Little Bear dressed up =-.
This is my unofficial 3rd year of homeschooling. I have 3 boys and 1 girl. I started homeschooling in 2006 when my youngest son didn't like kindergarten. So, we pulled him out, and he stayed home with me for a year and a half. We also pulled out the oldest son, who was in 6th grade at the time.
I made the mistake of putting them all in public school last year, so we decided to buckle down and pull them all out for good this year!
Yes, it's a bit freaky at first, but soon you will find your groove. I have learned to relax A LOT and just let the day progress naturally. Some days we learn a lot, and some days we just skim over the subjects. The whole point of homeschooling is to make it a lifestyle of learning, and not just teach "school at home".
Thank you for sharing your concerns with us. I am glad there are a bunch of women out there with whom I can relate!
.-= Jeanne´s last blog post … Rose Colored Reunion =-.