Sue Thompson is a homeschool mom of two raising her daughters on the east coast of Canada. The Thompsons always strive for a simple, peaceful and close-knit family life. Choosing to educate their girls at home for the past 5 years has been part of the answer to living such a life. The biggest reward the Thompson family has found is that they’ve all developed an absolute love of learning and their flexible lifestyle has led to many memorable adventures along the way. 

I asked Sue to share some of her best advice with the non-homeschooling community that is now homeschooling due to COVID19. Sue sent me over nuggets of wisdom that will bring freedom into your new homeschool life. Before you take a look, I’d like to leave you with Sue’s words, 

“I wish I could hug them all and tell them to not overthink it!” - Sue Thompson

• Your day doesn't have to look like a typical "school day.”  Don't feel pressured to cover every subject every day, if they linger on a topic they enjoy… chase that spark!

• A strict hourly schedule might not work for you or your children, a gentle rhythm might be all you need to help your littles know what to expect each day. 

• Don't underestimate the power of good quality books.  A rich "living book" will often cover many traditional subjects and best of all, it will be enjoyed by all.  So snuggle on your couch and get lost in a new world for the afternoon.

• Nothing beats fresh air and a little dose of nature.  Whether you have acres to explore or simply a window you can open… take a deep breath!  Start your own nature journals and record what you see in drawings and notes.  

• If you need a quiet time and your littles are at an appropriate age, claim an hour, a half-hour or even 15 minutes a day as your own.  Everyone crawls in their beds with books or toys and enjoys their own company.  

• It takes a village to raise a child so enlist help.  Have your children reach out on the telephone, via text or Skype and communicate.  Have talented friends and family teach them new skills or even just read them a book.  

• Delegate easy household chores and lighten your load.  Children respond very well to "Can you help Mama with this so we can play/read/walk/paint together sooner?" These life skills are an important part of their education. 

• Instead of worksheets to practice handwriting, why not have your children write letters to loved ones or create their own comic book?  

• Take the time, as a family, to embrace a new hobby or one you let go of when the demands of parenthood took over.  

• Don't fall into the trap of comparison.  What works for another family might not work for your family.  Make your home into a safe haven and model positive emotions for your children… that's all we really need to focus on.

Have a question about homeschooling? Email us at letters@bfbooks.com we’d love to help you out!