How to create healthy homeschool habits.

Creating Healthy Habits in Homeschooling: From one homeschooling mom to another

Homeschooling offers an opportunity to educate your children in a way that is best for THEM and their individual needs which is amazing, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. One of the most important aspects of homeschooling is instilling healthy habits that will benefit your child both academically and personally. Somthing I was worried about before we started homeschooling our kids was the lack of routine that would naturally happen with being home all the time. When I was in school I HAD to get up at a certain time or else I missed the bus. This was my fist example of needing to be “ on time” which is something I as an adult have to be aware of all the time. So how do I do that for my kids?! Well there are some strategies to create a balanced and healthy homeschooling environment. Here is what I believe will help my homeschooled kids achieve that same level of self disaplin I had to acquire while attending public school.

1. Establish a Routine ( I Know what you are thinking… DUHHHH lol but just hear me out )

A consistent daily routine helps children understand what to expect and creates a sense of security. My oldest must know exactly what we are doing every single day and will ask my this question over and over until I tell him our whole itinerary. Well having a consistent daily schedule has truly helped both of us so much! Set aside specific times for learning, breaks, meals, and physical activities. This structure not only enhances productivity but also fosters discipline and time management skills. For us this looks a little like this:

M-F we are to have these specific things completed by 8am. Get Dressed, Brush Hair/Teeth, Make Bed, Eat Breakfast, and get ready for our morning set of chores. It is our older kids responsibility to watch the time and make sure these things are done by 8.

8-8:30 complete morning chores ( each kid has their own morning chore they know they are responsible for.

8:30 Begin School.

2. Incorporate Physical Activity

Physical health is crucial for overall well-being and also their academic performance. Make sure to include regular breaks for physical activity throughout the day. Whether it’s a quick dance party, a walk around the neighborhood, or a structured exercise session, moving their bodies will help kids release energy and improve focus. My favorite way to do this is to have my kids tag along for my workout. It is something I need to get done every day and I think its so common when you are taking on the giant responsibility to homeschool your kids, that My husband and I both agree that its so important for our kids to see US setting this example and by doing so our kids have jumped right in with us.

3. Promote Healthy Eating

Healthy eating habits are essential. Not just for maintaining energy levels and concentration, but for their future as adults. Involve your children in meal planning and preparation, teaching them about nutrition and the importance of a balanced diet. Encourage healthy snacks like fruits, vegetables, and meats, instead of processed foods. I grew up in the generation of SNAAAAAACKS. we had all the good snacks! Everything in moderation but if we can teach our kids that food is fuel, they will have a different view of the things they consume. They will pa attention to the way it makes them FEEL after they eat it. Junk = sluggish and tired Nutrient dense = energetic and happy.

4. Take School Outdoors

Nature is a wonderful classroom. Incorporate outdoor learning experiences into your curriculum. Whether it’s a nature walk, a science lesson in the park, or gardening, spending time outside can enhance creativity and provide a fresh perspective on learning.

5. Know When To Take A Break.

Homeschooling can absolutely get stressful/ mentally taxing on both you and your child. It is ok to stop and take a little break. i have learned ( the hard way) that when both you and your child are getting frustrated and start shutting down, just walk away for a minute. You can give your child something to do like, kinetic sand, plato, coloring, something that will take their mind off of the situation causing the stress, and you can go outside for a few minutes, so when you come back to your school table you are both in a better head space and you haven’t made doing school something they dread. I use to push way to hard because in my head if we didn’t keep going or I let them “quit” they would always want to quit when something got hard. I hate that I looked at it that way instead of looking at it like this is NORMAL. It is a good thing that both you and your child can identify when you are getting frustrated and then handle that in a healthy way. That’s aa very important skill to learn, and we get to really lean into it since homeschool is so one on one unlike traditional school.

6. Cultivate a Growth Mindset

Let’s play off of what I just said because I have more to say about it LOL. I do really feel it is important to teach your children the value of persistence and resilience. Encourage them to embrace challenges, learn from mistakes, and celebrate small victories. A growth mindset fosters a love of learning and helps children develop the confidence to tackle difficult subjects. This is not the same as learning to know when you need to take a breather, that is still so important. This is more about teaching them that they are strong, capable people, and if you out work the person next to you, you will always suceced.

Homeschooling is amazing, and all about teaching our children how the world works and how to be the best they can be. We get to really focus on our children and their individual needs in such a close, safe space. Creating healthy habits in a homeschooling environment is essential for fostering a well-rounded education and future for our children. By establishing routines, promoting physical and mental well-being, and creating a supportive learning space, you can help your child thrive both academically and personally. Remember, the goal is not just to teach lessons but to nurture lifelong learners who are healthy and happy.

We got this!

Thank you for reading!

LeAnna Wakeham