Are you breaking over homeschool break? Does this question even make sense? I think it’s easy to say “yes, of course I’m taking a break, that’s the whole point”! We agree – that is the whole point. But taking an actual break, getting real rest and relaxation, is not so easy. Homeschool is always at the top of our minds, but instead of teaching lessons, we can use this break to use others around us to teach the lessons. Usually the holidays mean shopping, decorating, creating and checking off lists. Not to mention parties and family get-togethers. With so many plans on your schedule, which part includes the break part? Both for you and for your family.
Technology that Steals
Sitting in front of the T.V. and ‘giving your brain a break’ is a common reference but the truth is watching t.v. usually stimulates your brain. If you find after watching a television show or even a movie you don’t feel relaxed, it is because you aren’t. Routinely we turn to t.v. when instead we should be turning to a book, writing Christmas cards, or a hobby. For example, painting has been shown to be both a stress-release while stimulating creativity. For busy-bodies, an activity like painting will help you feel productive but also give you a chance to relax. Maybe now is the time to find a hobby you can enjoy. There are many hobbies that will also allow the whole family to do together! Like creating a Christmas land decoration for the house (the one at Michael’s is awesome!).
The Break that Matters
How often do you find yourself in front of your phone? Focusing on things like your cell phone causes you to lose track of time, and sometimes even takes your attention away from more important things. During this season you have an opportunity to be around many family and friends. This is a great time to let your kids sit with your family and friends and listen to the wisdom they have to share. Stories of times past, lessons to be learned from lessons already learned, and much more. We understand that sometimes you have to force your kids to be around the family just like you have to force them to come out of their room. Especially as they get older. This unique season, more than ever, is the time to force your hand. Make your child spend time with their family and your friends to learn and listen. Caleb makes a great point and give your a few examples of what he does with his children during the holiday season.
One day at a time
Sometimes focusing on one day at a time helps to stay in the moment. Take your homeschooling lessons, tasks, shopping, and everything else one day at a time. you can pack everything into one day or you can spread it all out. Clearly some organization is required to make this work in your favor. Step by step and little by little pick pieces out of your day to focus on relaxation.
This blog is not to convict you but simply to encourage you to actively focus on being present. Once a year we specifically focus on spending time with family, cherishing and appreciating each other. Many times the spotlight is stolen by our busy schedules, Black Friday shopping, and all the running around we’re doing to ensure we have a great holiday. Your effort is appreciated but your presence even more so. Let us all take a lesson from our grandparents and ancestors who didn’t have the technology to turn to but instead turned to each other.