When Do I Get a Break?

I know this seems like a strange title for a blog entitled, "Why I am Thankful I Decided to Home School", but I often hear from moms that don't think they can home school that they need a break from their kids.   No shame in feeling that way.  I think all moms do at some point....or many points.  :-)

I guess my perspective on that, for whatever it is worth, is that there is a time to get a break from kids other than sending them to school, if that is the only reason a person is doing it.   And if a parent continues to feel this way even while their kids are attending a school outside the home, is sending them to school really the solution to feeling overwhelmed?

I will get down off of the soap box now.  :-)

I am thankful that we chose to home school because I totally believe we have a better relationship with our kids precisely because we home school.  We are definitely not without struggles and issues.  People are people.  Kids are kids.  Parents are parents.  However....I think they learn more about how they should behave while at home with us.  In addition, the book list we incorporate into school teaches values like those in Little House on the Prairie.  One of Carol's favorite sayings is, "If you are not sure about a fiction book and the author is not dead, don't read it to your child."  I probably didn't quote it exactly.   (I think I have managed to climb back up on the box.)

This post is definitely sounding like I am trying to convince people they should home school.  (Should I think that without coming right out and saying it?)  I know everyone is in a different place and I can't presume to know what's best for other families.  But maybe, just maybe, there are people out there who would do it and love the results of it if their fears and reservations were alleviated.  So - if you are in that camp, read on!  If not, thanks for sticking with me this far.


P.S. My husband is wonderful at helping with the kids when I need a break.  Right now, that mostly means Miss Rosie Rose (6).  Hope and Sam are 16 and 13 and work independently most of the time.  I keep track of what they are doing, of course, and am in communication with them for direction, feedback, and encouragement.

P.P.S.  I have to say, I needed a break from Rose yesterday, but her being in school wouldn't have helped the situation because it occurred at night!