When I first started homeschooling my child, I didn't want to do it. That was over seven years ago, and fear kept me from pursuing one of the most rewarding accomplishments I have had as a parent. It's alright to not want to do something that doesn't feel comfortable. However, that shouldn't stop you from doing what has to be done anyway.
REALIZE YOU and YOUR KID AREN'T PERFECT
We all seem to strive for perfection within ourselves, but we need to give ourselves freedom to just be who we are without expectations. Once you stop trying to be like every other homeschooling parent you know or working parent you know, there will be a heavy burden of self imposed stress lifted. Don't just give yourself that pass of perfection, realize your kids feel the same way too. When they come home to homeschool, they experience many psychological and social changes that at their young age, they have no idea how to process.
TAKE NIBBLES BEFORE THE ENTIRE BITE
Don't try to push tons of curriculums, schedules, work or more onto your plate or your child when you first start to homeschool. Spend the first weeks or months filling in any educational gaps, making learning fun, and getting to know your child on a level you may not have been able to before. By spending the time to get to know your child's moods, abilities and build a foundation in learning, you will gain confidence in homeschooling.
MAKE TIME TO RELAX and PLAY WITH YOUR KIDS
Managing homeschooling while working can be daunting. Stick to the core subjects, but make it a point to play with your child for all other subjects that have some flexibility. Giving yourself and your child a planned moment of rest will allow you to thrive in many ways. A thirty minute nap can make a huge difference in your attitude and your child's mood no matter how old.
TURN RELUCTANCE INTO SUCCESS by making it a point to stay in the negative head space that is hindering your success.
