Fighting the February Blahs
Are you hoping spring blossoms a little early this year? Perhaps it is the letdown after the holidays. Maybe it’s the weather, or being indoors. Perhaps it’s the routine of routine. Whatever IT is, many homeschool moms find themselves - and their children - fighting the February blahs. Here are some ideas to spark up your days!
Take a break. By February we have passed through Labor day, Thanksgiving and Christmas. The next break can seem a great distance away. So take a week off from your regularly scheduled program. This can be an educationally productive time for the children working on favored projects and hobbies, while giving mom time to catch her breath and rejuvenate.
Switch gears. A unit study where the family works together, reads several great books, sings, watches related videos and researches an interest can add joy to the days. February offers several holidays that might work well with a unit. Book studies are always interesting and can be whatever length you need depending on the book you choose. Researching a family interest adds a special spark to any unit study.
Re-read an inspiring homeschool book. There are a handful of books that homeschool moms can re-read nearly every year for inspiration. What books did you read when starting out that had a motivating effect on you? Mind you, you are not looking for a new method or approach, just picking the brains of those who have gone before and reaping a harvest of inspiring ideas. (You can re-work your method or approach AFTER spring hits.…)
Take a field trip. Many times we don't think of taking field trips in the winter. One of the best pieces of advice we received when we first started homeschooling was to take "field trips" (otherwise known as family adventures) on government holidays. You miss the large crowds and usually have the undivided attention of the attendants. You can also take a more leisurely pace. If you live in an area where winter’s snow has not ruled out an outdoor excursion, try the zoo, or a state park. They won’t be crowded this time of year. You’ll enjoy the change of scenery and the fresh air. The children can get some much needed exercise. It’s an uplifting way to beat cabin fever. You’ll also find them bug free! If it is just too cold to be outside,try an indoor science or history museum.
Start a new Bible study. Are you trying to homeschool under your own power? Do you find it difficult to make time for consistent Bible study? Start a new routine! Find a time when you can faithfully come before the Lord. It may mean getting up 30 minutes earlier or instituting “reading time” for all children to give you the time you need. Then decide on a quiet place to study. Have pens, notebooks, references or any other materials you may need handy. Find a new Bible study to get you started. It might simply be a new daily Bible reading schedule, a published Bible study or a new devotional. God will meet you every day that you show up!
Remember why you homeschool. In the Old Testament days, the people were frequently called to remember God’s grace and mercy towards them through holidays, celebrations and memorials. Remember Who called you to homeschool - He will see you through!
In another month or two, the weather will have turned, the air will have freshened, we will be looking forward to the summer and have the catalogs out planning another year. In the meantime, enjoy those young people and have a great February!