Avoiding Homeschool Burnout Part 1
Hey Mama, Let’s Talk About Burnout (and How to Keep It From Taking Over)
Hey sweet homeschool mama,
Can we just take a minute to exhale together? Like a big, full-belly, sigh-it-out kind of breath?
Because if you’re here, you’re probably tired. Maybe a little (or a lot) frazzled. Maybe questioning why you ever thought you could do this homeschooling thing in the first place.
Let me tell you something from one homeschool mom to another: You are not alone. Burnout is real. It creeps in slowly—like laundry, or ants in the kitchen—and before you know it, you’re staring blankly at a math worksheet wondering if “unschooling” just means “watching documentaries and giving up.”
I’ve been there. More than once. And after more than two decades of homeschooling my kids through toddler tantrums, science experiments gone wrong, curriculum regrets, and a few too many cold coffees, I’ve learned a few things about keeping burnout at bay.
You Can’t Pour From an Empty Cup (No, Really)
I used to roll my eyes when people said “self-care.” I thought it was code for spa days and scented candles, and who has time for that? But it turns out, it’s more about soul-care. Taking five minutes alone with your Bible before the day explodes. Drinking your coffee while it’s still hot (miracles do happen). Asking your husband or a friend to take over for a Saturday morning so you can wander Target in peace. And think your own thoughts.
Taking care of yourself is not selfish—it’s survival. And no one else can judge.
"No one but you knows if something is selfishness or self-preservation." ~Helen Alexander
Absolutely — nurturing yourself as a homeschool mom is not a luxury, it’s a lifeline. You pour so much into your children, spouse, your home, and… but you need refilling too. Here are some gentle, life-giving categories of self-care, each with a few simple and specific ideas to help you build strength, not just survive the day.
** Emotional Self-Care **
Your feelings matter. You can’t always control the chaos, but you can honor your heart within it.
Gratitude journaling Start or end the day by jotting down three small things you're thankful for — the way your child laughed today, your warm coffee, sunlight on the floor.
Scheduled processing time Give yourself permission to call a friend or write a journal entry just to release emotions knowing your focus is not complaining — it's processing. Ask your friend to pray for you and with you.
** Mental Self-Care **
Homeschooling is mentally demanding — give your brain a moment to stretch, rest, or simply be.
Read for pleasure (not prep!) Keep a novel or inspirational book on your nightstand just for you — even if you only read one page at a time.
"Mentally clean house" Take 15 minutes once a week to make a brain dump list — everything you're holding onto. Then prioritize or let go.
** Physical Self-Care **
Your body carries the load of the day — literally. Caring for it doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming.
Stretching while the kids play A few gentle stretches while watching a read-aloud or during their independent time can do wonders.
Hydration station Set a beautiful water bottle on your table and aim to refill it twice a day. Add lemon or fruit slices to make it feel like a treat.
More...
** Creative Self-Care **
Creativity isn’t just for the kids. You were made to create, too — in ways that fill you up.
Keep a sketchbook or journal for doodling, quotes, or prayers. Five minutes can be enough to reconnect with yourself.
Work on a hobby weekly Knitting, baking, gardening — even if it’s just once a week after the kids are in bed. It’s soul-fuel, not selfishness.
** Social Self-Care **
You don’t have to walk this road alone. Connection is part of your wellness, not an extra.
Plan a monthly mom coffee date (even virtual) Find a friend who understands the homeschool life, and commit to connecting without kids around.
Join an in-person or online homeschool support group Ask questions, share wins, or simply listen in. Feeling seen makes a huge difference.
** Spiritual Self-Care **
Feeding your soul anchors everything else. Make space to receive grace.
Start your day with a short Scripture and prayer — even 5 minutes matters. You are completely loved. Connect with the one who made you and loves you entirely.
Light a candle during quiet time:Let it be a simple symbol of peace, prayer, or presence.
Even if you choose just one small act of care a day, you’re honoring the sacred work you do, the sacred people you care for — and the sacred person you are.
What does soul-care look like for you these days? Let's help each other by sharing. I’d love to hear your go-to reset moments—big or small.
Avoiding Homeschool Burnout Series
Part 1 Self-Care // Part 2 Master Your Schedule // Part 3 Community // Part 4 Living in Reality // Part 5 God's Help
Take a look at our Homeschool Advice Page from experienced homeschool moms.
