Dear overwhelmed mama,
You are not a failure. Attitudes and relationships are the most important aspect of homeschooling. Forget curriculum goals for a bit and focus on those things. Sometimes for me, I find that my attitude has to be changed first. Remember, you’re not drawing up battle lines — it can feel that way with kids sometimes!! You are on the same team. Find ways to walk beside her and encourage her. Our kids need to know that we are on their side and even though their emotions drive them (and us!) crazy, we will calmly anchor them and get them through.
1. Pray with her. Pray for her.
2. I’d put aside all school work that she is struggling with and focus on what she is doing well.
3. Do a read-aloud that she would enjoy and that encourages good character traits. Spend lots of time snuggling on the couch.
4. Spend time together — rake leaves, bake cookies, organize her room,
5. Find things to praise her for.
6. One thing at a time, add back the schoolwork that she struggles with.
I have ten children. I know that sometimes it is hard to find the time to help the strugglers, but often, just taking five minutes to work with them and help them succeed at one thing ends up saving so much time later and avoids meltdowns.