You Have a Teenager – Now What?

Homeschooling through High School

Over the years, I’ve heard so many people say they are uncomfortable teaching older kids – both parents and teachers! The subject matter is more intimidating, and let’s face it, we didn’t like chemistry or algebra when we took them in high school. How are we going to be able to teach them?

But if you give up because of those reasons, you are missing out. First of all, let me assure you that you don’t have to relearn chemistry or algebra – unless you want to. You can find someone else to teach it. And your kids need you.

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6 Tips for Busy Homeschool Parents

You don’t have to be your kids’ only teacher

I was recently asked by a mom how I did it when all five of my boys were home. How did I teach all of them at their different levels? All the different subjects? And then grade everything too? I’ve had other parents ask how I do it all now, working full time and homeschooling only one kid.

I didn’t, and I don’t.

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Even Superheroes Need Help Sometimes!

And the superhero in this scenario is YOU!

We all want to be a superhero to our kids. We are the cook, taxi driver, event coordinator, education facilitator, and chief bather and bottle washer, among many other things. And just like in the comic books and movies, sometimes the superhero fails. Sometimes they need help.

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Homeschool Burn Out!

As a homeschooler, I’m always so excited to get started at the beginning of the year.  We have all the materials, and I’ve taken the time to plan and organize.  We begin losing momentum a little after Thanksgiving, but I change things up for the holidays, and we make it through.  I re-evaluate at the first of the year and then get going again, but it hits me big time after a couple of months.  Burn Out.

After almost 20 years of homeschooling, I can see the cycles.  Each year in February or March, I feel it again.  If I’m going to think about giving up, this is when it happens.  I start questioning why I am doing what I’m doing.  I’ve talked to other veteran homeschoolers, and I’m not the only one.

So, how do I keep on going?

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School in December – NO!

5 FUN (EDUCATIONAL) ACTIVITIES TO DO INSTEAD

I didn’t usually do school in the month of December. At least that is what my boys thought! We did fun things like study about how other countries celebrate the holidays, bake cookies for friends and family, and read Christmas books. Sounds fun right? It was a great way to make special memories and break up the school year without stopping the learning. Here are 5 fun and educational activities you can do with your kids:

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5 Helpful Books – Action-Oriented

When family or friends come to me with a challenge, I usually send them away with a list of books. It has gotten so bad that my boys will laugh, and before I even get the words out, say, “Let me guess. You have a book that I should read?” This month I’m going to continue my series to explain the six characteristics that will help you live and share your genius. The fifth characteristic is Action-Oriented. Enjoy!

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The Importance of Teaching Flexibility

In this case, I’m not talking about gym class.

Flexibility has a lot to do with the growth mindset that I’ve talked about earlier. We need to see ourselves and others as able to change and grow. Our teens are in the middle of going through so many changes in their lives that helping them learn and internalize this is critical. Being flexible also has a lot to do with being imaginative, creative, and innovative.

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