For any teacher in any educational environment stress comes with the job. There can be many reasons for this, and there are just as many remedies. There are also some great ways to avoid stress. Stress affects the teacher, but also the student(s). It is unhealthy for everyone, but there are also positive ways stress can play a part in our lives. For example, when test results are in and the college of choice has accepted the student based on those scores – now it is just a matter of paying for the school. Yikes!
Some reasons for stress can originate with the teacher or the student. If either is not getting enough sleep it can affect the entire day. Medical conditions may also be to blame. Perhaps the student is really struggling in a specific area. The teacher/parent could be having a stressful situation that has nothing to do with homeschool. There could be an issue with the student that is affecting his/her behavior or learning.
Life is full of stresses, but lucky for us there are ways to remedy it. Before freaking out take a very deep breath in as quiet of a place as you can muster. Clear your thoughts and count to ten slowly. Try to look at the issue from an outsider’s perspective. Make a call to a friend, family member, or colleague if needed. Sometimes other people’s opinions, advice, and/or suggestions make all the difference in the world. Another idea to remedy a stressful situation is to take a break! Whether it is an hour or a day, sometimes walking away from the situation can help refresh things, and provide a clearer picture of the situation when you return.
Stress for homeschooling families is easily avoided. Problems can be solved. One of the best ways to avoid stress is to not be so hard on yourself. Set your goals within reasonable expectations. Get help when you feel you may need it. Waiting until the last minute to get help is a great way for stress to sneak up on you. Don’t let that happen! Call the reinforcements in when you know that it will be a stressful day. Make a plan for each day. It may sound slightly OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder), but it can be a wonderful way to keep the day running smooth.
Finally, be aware of each person’s needs around you. This includes being aware of your own. Do you need a break? How often? Is a child struggling in a specific area? Perhaps there is a way to conduct some one on one time for you and her/him. Stress is part of any parent’s job, but it can be remedied, and, at times, avoided altogether! Happy homeschooling!
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