I’m A Pinterest Homeschool Mom and That’s Okay… Too

Last month, all parents of school aged kids received a crash course in homeschool. Crisis learning if you will. And while there has been a lot of jokes cracked and fun memes floating around, there is also a lot of negativity toward those who are making schooling their focus and all the cute crafts that fill the day.   

I’ve tried it both ways: approaching it with the carefree attitude of an extended summer vacation and embracing the uphill battle like it’s climbing Mount Everest. I’ve got to tell you, I’m a Pinterest Homeschool Mom and that’s okay… too.

You can say, “don’t stress yourself” and “the kids will be fine” all you want. To me, the benefits outweigh the work put into it. Would I rather take some “me time” (how is that possible in a pandemic anyway?!), sure, but realistically the few minutes I could squeeze out are better spent organizing three small children, so I digress.

The reason I do it? Well, I’ve found some benefits that you might appreciate too:

1. It is what I can control. That seems to be the one priority everyone can agree on in a time of such uncertainty. While I cannot control the overflowing sink full of dishes, I can control their education. While I may not have a say in whether my kid will do a formal graduation ceremony this year or if they will even say ‘goodbye’ to their beloved teachers. Their path for success at the kitchen table is in my hands. This ability to make a plan, see it through, and gain satisfaction with productivity has been more fulfilling and positive for my mental health that probably anything else I’ve experienced the past few months.  
2. It is what they can control. There is two parts to this. First, kids need a routine and there is no doubt about that. Following a set schedule, like their pre-pandemic life, allows that. Second, instead of an education free fall, they can continue to work towards the goals they established at the beginning of the year. For my one son it is recognizing the letters of the alphabet for pre-reading. This alphabet mats are one of the things he is most excited about because he made that goal. Despite the environment being different, they still want success.
3. I’m learning about my children. We’ve always made a practice of going through their backpack upon arrival. I saw the day through their eyes and what they were being taught. What I didn’t see clearly was what they learned or how they learned it. I quickly realized in this process where my children’s strengths and opportunities lie and how they were different than I had thought. I also learned how to engage them more and transfer those lessons over into practical application. For example, my son who is interested in chemistry has joined me more in the kitchen. The one who is inclined toward the arts is tasked with drawing often as part of the lesson and sometimes sorting laundry. Upon working through this process, I’ve learned how to get through to them and communication has never been stronger as a result.
4. We’re having fun and bonding. With the newfound knowledge about my children’s learning process, I’ve been able to combine their interest for more engaging lessons. Using their favorite candy in a science experiment (Skittles Rainbow, look it up) was exciting. Watching videos on how to build a frog habitat and executing it in the back yard, made me the cool mom. Our relationships are changing not because of the situation we are in but rather what we’re making with it.
5. It’s a creative outlet, for me. Much like how it is a mental release to gain control, ’Pinterest Mom Homeschooling’ is a creative release too. Researching ideas is stimulating and executing them is fun. Each step of the way, I engage my creativity to reevaluate and accomplish that phase. If I’m still feeling the itch, then the next time we visit the “creative cupboard”, I’m right there along with them grabbing a paintbrush.

How do I have the time for it? Well, it starts with picking a theme. I spend the previous week researching ideas in my spare time (or sleepless nights). Yes, I pin them too. Taking a few hours on the weekend to plan, prepare and organize allows ease during the week. Every morning I incorporate what school mandated lessons are handed out. If all goes well, we are done homeschooling by lunch and the rest of the day is spent working, cleaning, or playing. Because, balance.

Certainly, I don’t think this plan is for everyone. If it’s not for you and a less restrictive approach is, go for it! It’s definitely less abrasive on your brain. Though I do hope you saw insight on why this path is taken by some of us. For those of us that it is, let your control freak flags fly and homeschool your hearts out.