5 Important Truths for Introverts Who Homeschool

This post is sponsored by TakeLessons.com.

If I were to give one reason why I can’t homeschool, it would be the fact that I’m an introvert. A really big introvert. An I-will-die-if-I-don’t-get-enough-time-to-myself-every-day introvert.

Obviously it isn’t a good enough reason because we’ll be entering our fourth year of homeschooling this fall. But my introversion is probably the biggest hurdle I have to personally jump while homeschooling Caroline.

Over the past few years I’ve had to find ways to homeschool effectively and keep myself mentally sane healthy and happy at the same time. Here are five important truths I’ve learned.

Important Truths about Homeschooling and Introverts

1. Embrace the fact that you are an introvert. We live in a culture that worships the extroverted ideal. Being an introvert can often feel like swimming against the tide.  But remember this truth. God made you an introvert. He could have made you any way He chose, but He specifically created you as an introvert. You are an introvert, specifically wired this way by the Creator of the Universe.  Woo hoo!  Embrace your introvertedness!

2. Don’t try to ignore or downplay your introversion. Your introversion is an important part of your personality. It isn’t something you choose to be or not be.  Recharging alone isn’t optional for introverts. Extroverts can get recharged at co-op, church and Target. Introverts need time alone. Pretending that it isn’t important is a sure fire recipe for burnout or, even worse, depression.

3. Don’t be a martyr. In order to be a healthy homeschooling mom you need to take care of yourself spiritually, physically and mentally. It is not selfish to act on the fact that you need time alone every day. It is wisdom and good stewardship. You don’t do yourself or your family any good if you ignore your most basic needs of space and time alone.

4. Plan strategically for introvert time. Do a children exchange with another introverted mom on a regular basis.  You each get a free afternoon every week. Block off thirty minutes a day when you are left alone and your husband can run interference. If thirty minutes seems impossible, start with fifteen. Ideally, I would guess most introverts need at least an hour to thrive, but start with something. Don’t ignore your need because it seems impossible. Start with whatever small step you can take and build from there. Make a plan. Just like you plan the education of your children, plan for your own well-being.

5. Utilize outside help. I love my daughter dearly. But as a homeschooling mom I’m with her basically 24/7 unless my husband takes her out to do something and I stay home. I am very thankful for our homeschool co-op. It is a few hours every week when Caroline learns and has fun with other children and I can be freed up from her presence, questions and energy. Knowing how good it is for both of us, I will continue to utilize outside help for the very same reason. By using other teachers and professionals, I get a much needed introvert break and she gets to learn from other talented people.

One such place to find qualified professionals is Take Lessons.

TakeLessons makes it easy to find a safe, pre-qualified Music Instructor or Academic Tutor.

TakeLessons connects students and families with private music teachers, arts instructors and academic tutors throughout the US. They’ve been in business since 2006, and have worked with over 30,000 students nationwide. Safety and quality are their priorities; every instructor completes an extensive interview, training, and an annual criminal background check. They assist with scheduling, initial coordination with the instructor, and billing – so all you have to worry about is enjoying your lessons! Your online student account also helps you stay organized with scheduling and billing tools.

Take Lessons provides In-Home and In-Studio lessons, as well as Online Lessons, which are a popular option for busy families – all you need is a computer with a webcam, a Skype account, and a good Internet connection. Cut down on commute times by taking lessons in the comfort of your own home!

About Take Lessons

• Over 30 lesson types available, including guitar, singing, piano, drums, violin, dance, acting, and academic tutoring.
• Lessons available in-studio, in-home or online (via Skype). Lesson prices vary depending on location and length.
• The most popular lesson package is Quarterly (book 12 lessons, get 1 free). Other packages include month-to-month and Flex (coordinate lesson times as you go along with your instructor).
• 100% Money Back Guarantee. If you’re not satisfied with your first lesson, they’ll find you another teacher, or refund all of your original purchase price, including the first lesson.
• No long-term commitments – switch your schedule, teacher or instrument type at any time.
• Teachers available for all ages and all experience levels.

Still need more information to think though your family’s situation? Check out their free ebook: Getting Started with Music Lessons.

To learn more, and begin searching for a music instructor, go to TakeLessons.com. As a special bonus for my readers, they’re offering 20% off music lesson or tutoring packages when you use promo code ‘SALLIE’ at checkout. Call 619-618-7490 to speak with a TakeLessons Student Counselor. This offer is good through July 6, 2013.