My Biggest Homeschooling Mistakes . . . So Far || COLLAB || July 2017

Рет қаралды 24,025

7 жыл бұрын

My Biggest Homeschooling Mistakes . . . So Far || July 2017
Hindsight is 20/20, right? Here I discuss some of my biggest
↓↓↓ CLICK TO SEE MORE INFO ↓↓↓
mistakes in homeschooling ... so far! I hope it's helpful to you beginner homeschoolers out there. Check out the playlist for all the other generous moms who share their biggest homeschooling fails here:
• Playlist
✦ MY FAVORITE THINGS on AMAZON:
www.amazon.com/shop/projectha...
✦ TRY AUDIBLE and GET 2 FREE AUDIOBOOKS!
amzn.to/2AILNUs
✦ AFFILIATE RELATIONSHIPS:
I am happy to be an affiliate of Amazon and the following companies. I receive a small commission for any purchases you make through the following links at no cost to you. My recommendations are always based on my honest opinion. Thanks for supporting the work I put into my channel!
* BIG LIFE JOURNAL
Want to cultivate a growth mindset in your children? This journal will inspire you and your child to reach for their loftiest goals and to value mistakes as a way to learn along the way!
biglifejournal.com?aff=323
* THE CRAFTY CLASSROOM:
Searching for ready-to-go, comprehensive, and fun early learning printables? The Crafty Classroom is the perfect source for effective and entertaining educational printables!
www.craftypartners.com/idevaff...
* EVAN-MOOR PUBLISHERS
Evan-Moor Publishers creates a plethora of open-and-go workbooks to keep you on track and streamline your homeschool. Instead of meaningless busywork, Evan-Moor books lead your child through a progression of increasingly challenging learning activities to reinforce their knowledge.
bit.ly/2Bziq76
* MOTIVATED MOMS PLANNER
Mamas, your search for the perfect chore planner is OVER! This planner will change your housekeeping life! Get your own Motivated Moms planner/app and membership by clicking below.
motivatedmoms.com/join/?lmref...
The discount code "CLEAN3" will save $3 on the first year of membership.
✦ Who are we?
My name is Tanya, and I'm an MD-JD turned homeschooling mom of 3 kiddos, aged 7, 4, and 2. We are a eclectic, secular homeschooling family growing closer together in knowledge and in spirit. You can find videos here about homeschooling (a lot), motherhood and parenting (some), ADHD (a lot), minimalism (hopefully a lot!), homemaking (a little), and transitioning from a working mom to a SAHM/WAHM (a smidge). Thank you for subscribing and joining our homeschool journey!
✦ Where else can you find us?
Instagram: projecthappyhome
Email: Contactprojecthappyhome@gmail.com
Twitter: @projecthappyhom (Note the missing "e")
✦ FTC Disclaimer: Most of the products featured on my channel have been purchased by me. If I have products sent to me for review or if I partner with a company (e.g., as an affiliate), I will disclose it in the video and/or description. My integrity and relationship with all of you is of paramount importance, and I would never mislead you for any amount of monetary gain. The opinions and reviews that I share are entirely my own.
✦ Intro music:
PACIFIC SUN by Nicolai Heidlas Music / nicolai-heidlas
Creative Commons - Attribution 3.0 Unported- CC BY 3.0
Music provided by Audio Library • Video
~-~~-~~~-~~-~
Please watch: "ADVICE FOR NEW HOMESCHOOLERS || 5 Questions for Homeschoolers"
• ADVICE FOR NEW HOMESCH...
~-~~-~~~-~~-~

Пікірлер: 223

@JustSewTrish 7 жыл бұрын

Ahhhhh, you hit it. We are mom too. Thank you for putting that into words. Because yes, this is a huge obstacle. The relationship dynamic is so true. Haha, curriculum envy is so true. These are so great. You did a fantastic job putting all of these experiences into words.

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

I am totally fan-girling out that you are commenting on one of my videos, Trish! You're at least 80% of the reason I started this channel in the first place! I feel like I've learned so much this past year - way more than my kids, lol. I'm going to try to throw most of my effort at nurturing our relationships next year, and let the academics come at their own pace. I'd love it if you joined in the collab - though you've always been transparent and generous with the mistakes you've made and everything you've learned along the way. I appreciate your kind words so much!

@Forwardoperationbase 6 жыл бұрын

Just Sew Trish an dads too, 😁

@AbleKinetic 7 жыл бұрын

I'm learning that flexibility is the hidden gem of home education. Not only do we have the flexibility to mold the learning environment to fit our child's specific learning style, we can quickly change direction when it becomes obvious that another way of doing something is more effective. Home education is like parenting, it's one of the most difficult but most rewarding things I've ever done. I agree with you that we need to find a rhythm that fits our own family lifestyle. It's great to soak up what others are doing but in the end we have to embrace what's most effective for our own specific situation. Thanks for the video.

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

I love what you said - "It's great to soak up what others are doing but in the end we have to embrace what's most effective for our own specific situation." Exactly! It took me awhile to figure out that our unique style was good and true. Thanks so much for watching and taking the time to leave such a thoughtful comment!

@Beachandpool 5 жыл бұрын

Great comment! And great advice!

@parijaiswal5922 5 жыл бұрын

Believe me when I say that I have watched tons of videos on homeschooling and yours is the most relatable out there. My takeaway 'just be of who you are'. Thanks for the splendid video

@kfranklin926 7 жыл бұрын

It is so hard not to try to be all the homeschool moms you see. We put so much pressure on ourselves to be everything for them because we don't want them to miss out. Our kids need us to be authentically us. So much yes to this video.

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

Yes! We need to be better at showing our true selves to our kiddos - so they can see that it is wonderful when they bring out their true selves as well! Hey, we might finally be moving to a homestead!! I'm so excited! And I'll have to watch all your homesteady videos over again.

@taniathemama 4 жыл бұрын

Whew its 3am...I’ve been on YT for hourssss researching homeschooling and this is what I needed most. Thank u!

@ProjectHappyHome 4 жыл бұрын

Wow, thank you so much for your kind words. :) I’m glad it showed up in your feed at the right time. Since I filmed this, I’ve made several more mistakes, so it’s probably time to do an updated video. 😂

@aprilp6607 6 жыл бұрын

Hi 🤗 I am a brand-new subscriber. I had to comment and tell you how much I appreciate this video. My husband and I are in the early stages of considering homeschooling our eldest daughter, and you spoke to SO many concerns I have about homeschool! Thank you for being so honest and relatable 😊

@ProjectHappyHome 6 жыл бұрын

Aw, thanks! I’m glad it helped.

@meganvansipe 6 жыл бұрын

I am relating SO MUCH to everything you said!! Thank you for adding your voice to the homeschool world - it needs you! :)

@ProjectHappyHome 6 жыл бұрын

Aw, thanks so much for the encouragement!

@nuriamartinez9358 7 жыл бұрын

"Misguided enthusiasm" hits the nail on the head when it comes to my main mistakes too 😂 Great sharing!

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

Lol! We've all so earnest, aren't we? But luckily our kids are good teachers, ready to guide us along the right path.

@dancingdog78 6 жыл бұрын

I simply cannot thank you enough for this video! It truly helped me regain some perspective and not feel so alone.

@ProjectHappyHome 6 жыл бұрын

I’m so glad. Thanks so much for watching!

@dewberrybliss 6 жыл бұрын

Great video. I have only been homeschooling for 3 months now, but I can already relate to these mistakes! It's nice to hear others encourage and share their experiences:)

@ProjectHappyHome 6 жыл бұрын

Glad it was helpful! I learned a lot from the other collaborators as well!

@fiercefemmepire 7 жыл бұрын

I love that you documented your first year. I regret not documenting it more aside from some notes, a planner a few pics. I was so overwhelmed (and still get the jitters every.year. at the start of a brand new grade). Thanks for sharing your rough patches.

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

It's funny, I wasn't thinking about documenting the journey when I started the channel and my Instagram account, but I'm so glad that I included pictures of the children doing activities and running around. Every time I had a bad day, just looking at the pictures made me feel better. I'm so glad to be traveling the homeschooling path with kind souls like you!

@RochelleGarrisonCocomello 6 жыл бұрын

Tanya thank you so much for your raw authentic insight. I so appreciated this video. I'm a month into homeschooling kindergarten and i already have a list of mistakes I've made. It's a bumpy journey but still feels like the right choice.

@ProjectHappyHome 6 жыл бұрын

+Rochelle, thanks so much for watching and taking the time to comment! I so enjoy what you share as well. Yes, homeschooling is not for the faint of heart! It’s more like boot camp for the mama heart. I wish you all the luck in the world for your journey!

@annagreene5257 5 жыл бұрын

This was one of the best videos that I've listen to describing very common mistakes we all make! Thank you so much. I have been homeschooling 15 years and still fall into the insecurity trap you described.

@ProjectHappyHome 5 жыл бұрын

Me, too! 3 years in and still resisting the pull to be someone I’m not - and people we’re not. Thanks so much for taking the time to leave such a kind word.

@ACommonLife 7 жыл бұрын

I loved this, Tanya. I think, because I came from a viewpoint of teaching high school, that I didn't really know HOW to homeschool well until we were a couple of years in. It took me a while to figure out what was best for the children and for me. I was trying to fit us into a mold that I thought was best for us, but it didn't work AT ALL. Wise words, friend! ❤

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

Thanks, my friend! We seemed to make a lot of the same mistakes, perhaps because of a shared teaching background - and our perfectionist tendencies. ;) I am so glad that we can lean on one another and encourage each other forward on the journey!

@Cottage-Reader 6 жыл бұрын

Best advice I received to date! I'll be binge watching for the rest of the day, thank you so much! Competing with others is not being true to my authentic self.

@ProjectHappyHome 6 жыл бұрын

Awesome! So happy it resonated with you. I’ve been so much happier ever since I stopped aspiring to be someone I’m not - in every aspect of my life, including homeschooling.

@KivStopMotions 6 жыл бұрын

I’m not homeschooling my kids just considering it for now, I absolutely loved your video and your honesty in it. We can’t be the perfect mom, perfect wife, perfect teacher.. somethings gotta give. Thank you so much for your words!

@ProjectHappyHome 6 жыл бұрын

Thanks so much for that kind comment! Something's definitely gotta give, wry lol.

@thelocalherbalist 6 жыл бұрын

Yes to all of this! Thank you for putting yourself on youtube. I really needed to hear your words today.

@ProjectHappyHome 6 жыл бұрын

I'm so glad it helped. We all too far to much comparing of ourselves to others - I find that the kinder I am to myself, the kinder I become to my children. So I'm trying, bit by bit, every day, to be gentle with myself. Thanks so much for watching and taking the time to comment! It means so much.

@thesteinhauerscene 7 жыл бұрын

This was really encouraging! Thanks for sharing!

@teachermabid7809 7 жыл бұрын

Loved this video Tanya! I agree, honoring and discovering who you are as a homeschool mom is such a big part of teaching our kids!! Thank you for sharing! I'd love to join you sounds like a great topic to explore!

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

Yay! I can't wait to hear your thoughts!

@ThePreciousYears 7 жыл бұрын

I loved loved loved everything you said...you nailed all our thoughts so eloquently. It is very important to be true to who we are and how we can teach because if we can't teach then they won't understand or learn. Thank you for this amazing collab.

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

Thanks, my friend! I felt exactly the same way about your video!

@roismcanulty 6 жыл бұрын

Oh my goodness this was music to my ears!!! As a new secular homeschooler to my 7 year old here in the UK (I have two much older kids in school) I was falling into every single trap you mention. Even though it didn't feel right! The deschooling - we've been doing that for the last two weeks and in truth, I find that stressful too - because it's so so hard to let go of years of institutionalisation! I am so enjoying the time spent reconnecting though, although reading stories for two hours a day is tiring my eyes out. Haha. I have just subscribed and look forward to watching more of your videos! Thank you so much Róisín X

@EmsBookNookMI 7 жыл бұрын

"I can't be every type of homeschool mom." Yes! This! It is something I've struggled with for the better part of 8 years, so that really resonated with me. I'm definitely wanting to join this collab, after a bit of hesitation. I've racked up a lot of mistakes over the years. ha! Thanks for sharing. It's always a joy to hear from you.

@EmsBookNookMI 7 жыл бұрын

As far as co-ops go, your advice is spot on. We've taken part in 3 or 4, and I do have to say that while we do have Christian beliefs, our "walk" isn't as intense as most of the families who were part of the co-ops we were in, so that made things awkward, or sometimes downright difficult for myself, especially. There was just a lot of judgment, whether intended or not... and definitely not over the top judgment, but it could be felt. I don't regret joining the co-ops, because I did gain a handful of really great friendships out of the experience, but I know that we'll be much more cautious moving forward. :)

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

"Judgment, whether intended or not" - exactly! I met some lovely folks as well, so I'm grateful for that. Our CC director was a very nice woman who tried her best to make us feel welcome, so I definitely appreciated that as well. It honestly wasn't anyone's fault - it just wasn't a good fit. I hope to find a coop that fits us better someday. Thanks so much for sharing your experience - you're glowing in your IG pics, btw!

@amandam4537 7 жыл бұрын

So happy to find your channel! I'm a new homeschool mom- so this helped me a lot!

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

Yay! I love the community we have here on KZfaq! I'm glad it helped. Thanks so much for watching and taking the time to comment!

@kikiwylde 7 жыл бұрын

That desire to emulate other homeschool mums really struck a chord. This video was so honest.Thank you so much for sharing. I'll definitely be joining in on this collab and I'm so glad I found your channel.

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

Yay, I'll be on the lookout for your video! Thanks so much for watching and taking the time to comment!

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

Also, I just visited your channel and subscribed! You talk about so many things I'm interested in!

@kikiwylde 7 жыл бұрын

Project Happy Home thank you so much!

@Anchorhomeschool 7 жыл бұрын

I love this! I love how you mention deschooling! Most people don't realize how important that is!! TFS ❤️

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

I wish I had realized it earlier, lol! I was a moron. An enthusiastic moron. You live and you learn! Luckily my kids are good teachers.

@AnaKJ808 6 жыл бұрын

This helped me bridge the gap between expectation and reality!!! It’s our first year of homeschool and Things happen at home!!! I didn’t plan for all of that. Plus my son is turning 3 so my 8 yr old gets sooo distracted bc he wants her to play. And there is a battle... attention spans and patience for one another... man!!! I’m so grateful I came across this video!!! It’s only half way thru the year and I can still turn things around. ☺️ Thank you so much for helping and inspiring me to be Me!!! Not the organized homeschool mom I love to watch... or the super interesting unschool videos moms. I definitely think I’m somewhere in the middle... I like traditional for certain things but I also like the unschool approach... I think homeschooling has been such a blessing for us as a family. And I don’t want to give up! This has “recharged” my energy and optimism about homeschooling and I can’t wait for tomorrow!!! Thanks again!!! I truly appreciate it!!! 💕💕💕

@ProjectHappyHome 6 жыл бұрын

You sound very similar to me! 1.5 years in and I’m still tweaking as we go. It has been really helpful to journal and record our daily activities - just to grasp our rhythm and loves and hates. I wish you the best of luck!!

@NidaLighthouse 7 жыл бұрын

Thank you fir this video. I did homeschool without a curriculum my preschooler but now was watching every single youtube video on curriculum and got so overwhelmed. you are so likable calm and collected. wishing you success on youtube! 🙌🌹🌼🌻🌸

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

+Nida Lighthouse, I am such a huge fan of your channel! You're basically the human embodiment of "likeable, calm, and collected," so I am beyond flattered that you would pay me that compliment. I think that almost anything beautiful and gentle turns out to be a good preschool curriculum. It's funny, teaching preschool taught me more about the value of a slow gentleness and the simple beauties surrounding us than I would have believed. My preschooler was a great teacher. Very patient with her often slow mama. 🙂

@Homeschool-your-boys 6 жыл бұрын

Sounds like you have learned a BUNCH for only having homeschooled for one year. Wow! That's amazing! Yes, having the confidence to study our kids and blaze our own trail when it comes to homeschooling is SO IMPORTANT. It's wonderful that you've learned that lesson so quickly. :)

@ProjectHappyHome 6 жыл бұрын

I'm grateful that my kids aren't shy about teaching me what works and what doesn't. I'm sure I have loads left to learn, but now I welcome the mistakes - they are all opportunities for growth, if we can just take ourselves a bit less seriously and give ourselves more compassion. Thanks!

@Homeschool-your-boys 6 жыл бұрын

Yes. That's HUGE! Great attitude!!!

@Homeschool-your-boys 6 жыл бұрын

BTW - I've got a Biggest Homeschool Mistakes video, also. I'd love to have you add it to this playlist. :) kzfaq.info/get/bejne/laumhpp8kt3efKc.html

@AdoptableDogVideos 4 жыл бұрын

Thank you. Your thoughts on this subject are incredibly helpful.

@ProjectHappyHome 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks so much for watching!

@breebroderick21 4 жыл бұрын

Thank you! I loved your video so much I had to subscribed. I will be a first year homeschool mom. I am so excited but a bit nervous as well! You really hit on alot of things I have worried or questioned. And I love the idea of DESCHOOLING!!! yes, so thank you. I will definitely continue to tune in!

@ProjectHappyHome 4 жыл бұрын

Awesome, thanks for watching!

@Rachelatday2dayjoys 7 жыл бұрын

I really enjoyed what you said... good idea about sitting in on meetings at a co-op before you join... I'm still up in the air about what to do this year. 💙

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

Thanks, my friend! Good luck making your decision!

@annaleighadams 6 жыл бұрын

I've been a homeschool/sahm for many years, and this summer worked outside the home. When I stopped working a week ago everyone assumed I would jump in with both feet, but we're gently easing back into it. We were blessed that our kids went with family, but now they need a bit of detox. We're working on morning time, read alouds, and nature journaling. The rest will come slowly.

@ProjectHappyHome 6 жыл бұрын

For certain! Slow and steady, with a loving and patient heart - for yourself as well as the kiddos!

@thecottagehomemaker4223 7 жыл бұрын

This was amazing... such wonderful and beautiful things to learn from for so many im sure. Way to go mama!

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

Thanks, my lovely friend! I though the same about your video!

@PepperandPine 7 жыл бұрын

Excellent points Tanya 👍 I hope year two brings a sense of balance and well being. 😊

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

Hana, thanks! Your channel has made such a difference to my entire outlook on homeschooling. I appreciate you so much.

@MommaSchmoozeReviews 7 жыл бұрын

I agree with you 100% being YOU is very important...and wanting to be like others is natural as a new homeschool mom but I agree we can take ideas but replicating things is not the best way. I still learning myself....always and forever

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

Yup! Always and forever!

@beccascraps8141 7 жыл бұрын

what amazing wisdom! Thanks for sharing!!

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

Thanks, that's so kind of you to say!

@smartmoneyhousesinvestor7177 6 жыл бұрын

@projecthappyhome great tips! I’m starting mid year and I hear ya it’s fear that leads us to all these poor choices I pray your advise leads me away from having to learn the hard way lol

@ProjectHappyHome 6 жыл бұрын

Good luck! Thanks for the kind words!

@rebeccaoprea9917 5 жыл бұрын

“You be you but don’t make me be you .” What I think when people are trying to understand us and give their input , even when I don’t know what’s going on. People always say “ you know what’s best for your child “ yet I don’t think I do , but I do know my child and know what works and doesn’t so I go by that in terms to making decisions for them .

@ProjectHappyHome 5 жыл бұрын

Exactly - we can listen without transforming into someone we're not. :) Thanks for watching!

@briannebrown2284 7 жыл бұрын

Thank you! That was just what I needed to hear right now 😊

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

Oh, I'm so glad - we all have our bumps along this journey! Thanks so much for watching and taking the time to comment!

@danielriley5637 6 жыл бұрын

I needed this !! Thank you!

@ProjectHappyHome 5 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching!

@waltersharigoliath6730 7 жыл бұрын

After 12 years of homeschooling I still look back at year one as the toughest one. Great advice to new homeschooling mom, as with all areas of parenting do what is right for you and your child(ren).

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

I totally agree - it boils down to doing what is best for your own family. I'm hoping next year is easier - because at least I've matured!

@boybossmamahomeschool 7 жыл бұрын

It's such a learning curve and for you mommas who have taught in a public school setting it's probably much harder to make those adjustments. BTW love the no classes look ... you look great with both ...Love this collab ! Thanks for the invite 😘

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

Haha, thanks for the compliment, Jairy - I decided not to be lazy this time and popped in some contacts before filming. Yes, having taught previously creates some "bad habits" we need to break before homeschooling.

@boybossmamahomeschool 7 жыл бұрын

loL love it

@dogrosehips1564 3 жыл бұрын

Thank you!!!! My daughters 4 and we’re thinking about homeschooling... THIS encapsulated so many of my worries. Thank you!!!

@ProjectHappyHome 3 жыл бұрын

🤗

@Stormraye22 7 жыл бұрын

I love this so much! Thanks for sharing! I may just try and make this video too, you're inspirational! It's hard to get out of the mindset of keeping up with all the others or doing what they do.. so much info out there it gets overwhelming!

@Stormraye22 7 жыл бұрын

Also, I found co ops to be too busy for us- meaning they did ALOT of activities per day and week and it's kind of exhausting to be honest..

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

I agree - it was more exhausting than fun, in the end. But I hope that one day we find a good fit for us!

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

Thanks, dear! I'd love to see your video! I'm so enjoying your videos, btw!

@Stormraye22 7 жыл бұрын

Project Happy Home I hope so too!! Thank you so much! I love all your videos too.. especially when you were talking about UU! That was something I never heard of but definitely sounds like me!

@LovelyYungi 7 жыл бұрын

This is one of my favorite videos ever, soooo much truth! Thank you!

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

Aw, thanks so much for your sweet words!

@littlelady2473 7 жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing. My girls go to school and we homeschool weekends and evenings. Your mistakes are all honest. I can really learn from them, especially the tips on planning. I agree as a homeschooler we need to be more flexible. We have the opportunity to learn from our kids.

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

Flexibility is NOT my forte, but I'm getting better. They are truly our little teachers. Thanks so much for watching and taking the time to comment!

@tuathadesidhe1530 3 жыл бұрын

If your kids go to school all week... Then you may be living an educational life together outside of school hours - but it's not really the same as being a home ed family.

@sajmt1414 7 жыл бұрын

I wish we would have deschooled. That was the biggest mistake I made too. I wished we would have done lots of read alouds, field trips, watched educational videos, focused on math facts and just gotten into a rhythm for the first 2-4 months. That would have made such a big impact on our new adventure to homeschool. I also used to buy too much curriculum. This will be our 6th year, and I'm happy to say I didn't over buy. It's hard not to compare yourself and your kids to other homeschoolers. I just need to remember to be the best me I can be.

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

Amen! I need to remember that every single day. I didn't overbuy this year either! Woohoo! Of course, that may be because I already had so much stuff that I bought before we even started last year, lol.

@tamikawhorton3831 6 жыл бұрын

Ahhh, you hit the nail on the head. As I listened to your list of mistakes, man I could strongly relate. I'm glad you learned this in the first year. We've been homeschooling 5 years now and I think what fueled my mistakes in the beginning was trying not to fit the "stereotypes" about homeschooling, listening to some of the "you home school, oh so your kids will need to socialize." My second fear was not teaching good enough and surprise my kids kinda taught me what that needed to know if that makes sense. I too still watch others and read blogs but I have learned to tweak it to us. I had to also learn not to set up like a brick and mortar school just burnt us out so I keep things flexible. Last mistake for me was becoming a homeschool addict. Don't get me wrong love homeschooling but I have sacrificed many sleep hours and hours I could be doing something else trying to research every single thing I could about curriculum and homeschool set up and you name it. I talked homeschool, I slept homeschool, woke up and it drove my family insane. I just didn't want to miss anything or leave it out. There's so much out there so many great ideas but I had find something that represented us and what we needed and what kept my kids wanting to learn and forget about the talk and realize their needs, I know them and I can do this my way. We go to the YMCA, they socialize outside with other kids and at the Y and online gaming, with family and you name it. Feel they socialize more than some kids. If we can incorporate a good idea fine if not also fine. My kids are special needs and we sometimes have to homeschool at night and sometimes broken up throughout the day. I found ways to teach like most parents do anyway and may Normie it, any chance I get. So at the store "life experience" in the kitchen "home economics" when my husband's working on the car "auto mechanics" there's always teachable opportunities. I could go on. Congrats on making it through the first year and thank you for sharing this.

@ProjectHappyHome 6 жыл бұрын

+Tamika Whorton, yes, the "stereotype" fear can get us to behave totally unnaturally at first! I was running to and fro with my kids to avoid the dreaded "not socialized" label. This year, we are only participating in what serves us as individuals and as a family - and we're so much more relaxed and happy! Thanks so much for watching and taking the time to connect!

@mkb467 7 жыл бұрын

This was a great video! We have one year under our belt also and that knowing who you are struggle is really big. We joined a wonderful co-op (not classical conversations - though lots of people we know love it, it is just not right for us). I'm a very academic minded person and our homeschool reflects that, but it is hard for me to be that person sometimes when people are like "Unschool!" or "you don't really need a curriculum at this age!" Or other things that go opposite to how you are. You hit the nail on the head, I think, when you said the thing about wanting to be a good homeschool mom and so then you want to do what the other good homeschool moms are doing.

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

Yes, comparison can be the thief of joy for certain. I'm so happy you found a great coop! I still have hope that we may find one that fits for us as well. Thanks so much for watching and taking the time to comment!

@Wisconsinmom82 7 жыл бұрын

Tanya, I would love to hear your path through the career world to now. Your backstory of medicine and teaching is so unique! Video idea! 😊

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

One day I'll do a video on my journey . . . it's a very weird path, I know. Of all my careers, I miss teaching the most! 🙂

@momzestlife 7 жыл бұрын

It's nice to meet you Tanya! I'm enjoying your videos! So... I totally agree with you about the home dynamic mixed with homeschooling. Being flexible is a must, but like you, I would have it all planned out and my plans would flop as soon as we had appointments or someone got sick. Also, watching favorite bloggers/vloggers can be a hassle. We should all simply be ourselves. Thank you for bringing this to the surface! We also joined CC a few years ago and have decided it's not for us. We were mainly doing it because we had just moved and were looking for local friends and a social outlet. I was never completely attracted to the classical method, though... so it's not surprising it didn't work out for us. Anyway, I love the points you made and would like to join in on this collab.

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

I can't wait for your video! Thanks so much for taking the time to comment - I've been watching you since forever!

@momzestlife 7 жыл бұрын

Project Happy Home aww thanks for watching me for so long! I feel like I've been around the block and back with homeschooling - but so many new faces that sometimes I can't remember who I knew from years ago or just met.🌸

@supernaturalmind9134 6 жыл бұрын

Thank you for the insight. My son turned 4 in January and we are about to start home schooling. All the tips are welcome. Thank you =)

@ProjectHappyHome 6 жыл бұрын

Thanks! There are lots of great videos out there on how to start. And Confessions of a Homeschooler has a great beginners guide on her blog.

@alwaysAnnaXo 5 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much for making this very encouraging video, this is so true and very helpful.

@ProjectHappyHome 5 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching and taking the time to leave a kind word!

@astheygrowup 7 жыл бұрын

Those are all wonderful tips. I loved your advice on teaching based on who you are.

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

Thanks so much for watching and taking the time to post such a sweet comment!

@autostoppeuse 7 жыл бұрын

Also, I would like to add, curriculum collector here too. Guilty as charged. This summer I finally had a lightbulb moment...all this extra curriculum actually makes me more stressed out. As in, Ahhh! I'm not getting to all this fabulous curriculum I purchased! Panic. And let's be honest, any or none of these curriculums would be fine, so long as it gels with your family. So this summer I'm going through and trying my best to get rid of as much as possible. If I have something we like, then out with the others. If I'm holding onto it for "later," or "when he's older" it has to go too.

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

I am definitely guilty of having bought things for the far future - and I have cut out that behavior entirely! If we don't need it for the immediate year, no buying! Just write it down and revisit it later. Thanks!

@Beachandpool 5 жыл бұрын

Thank you SO MUCH! LOVE your video! Great advice! (Love your brows, btw). What is a COOP? I have no idea what that is. So, basically you pre-planned a lot...out of being nervous to be too flexible. Sounds like you're a great mom and teacher!

@ProjectHappyHome 5 жыл бұрын

Thanks so much for watching! In the middle of our 3rd year, I finally feel like I’m finding our own rhythm and routine. Good luck to you on the journey!

@Mels2H 7 жыл бұрын

I loved everything about this video!

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

Thanks, that's so kind of you to say.

@sashinimmagadda1756 5 жыл бұрын

Very nice video - you are doing a great and inspiring job !

@ProjectHappyHome 5 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much for the encouragement!

@HomeschoolontheHill 7 жыл бұрын

Lovely, Tanya...just lovely. I especially loved your encouragement about honoring who you are. Realizing that you aren't meant to be anyone (or everyone) else is so freeing, and you expressed it beautifully!

@Lelybee85 7 жыл бұрын

Oh my goodness! This collab is so helpful for someone like me that only had one year under her belt. Thank you for sharing and your honesty.

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

Thanks, I really appreciate your kind words!

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

Thanks, my friend. I think we have to embody that self-acceptance for our kids to truly learn it. #onedayatatime

@ReginaCordoba 6 жыл бұрын

New subbie! Thanks you so much for this video! I will be starting home schooling my kids soon.

@ProjectHappyHome 6 жыл бұрын

Good luck!! 🍀 It’ll be up and down, but it’s a fun ride!

@janinevasiliou6665 7 жыл бұрын

thank you for sharing i found this very valuable advice for a mother just starting out hschooling x

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

+janine vasiliou, I'm so glad! Thanks so much for watching!

@LadyS8985 6 жыл бұрын

This is the best video I have seen yet! Perfect timing for me. I have an ADHD, DD, Dyslexic, Dysgraphia, SPD and anxiety son. Some days I have it together and some days I feel lost. I would love to chat with you sometime.

@ProjectHappyHome 6 жыл бұрын

Anytime! Just email at contactprojecthappyhome@gmail.com. Thanks so much for the encouragement. Happy New Year!

@GraceFilled 7 жыл бұрын

So many gems in this video!! Thank you for sharing:)

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

Thanks! I'd love it if you joined in!

@GraceFilled 6 жыл бұрын

I am late but I wanted to join in too!! Thanks so much for sharing with us ....hugs :) kzfaq.info/get/bejne/Z6mEaKl_rZ26paM.html

@susansherwood3329 6 жыл бұрын

It was nice to hear what you have come across in home schooling, my second oldest son is struggling with anxiety depression grief after my husband aged 40 died in November plus possibly on the spectrum also . He physically can't Go to school, I'm really looking into home schooling him but could only do him all 4 of my other children seem to be doing ok . Thankyou x

@ProjectHappyHome 6 жыл бұрын

Wow, that sound like a lot you have on your plate, mama. I hope you and your family find a healthy new rhythm in this tough time, and good luck to your son in coping with his grief. Homeschooling may provide him with the space and quiet he needs at this time to recover his spirits.

@lambdacalculus8316 6 жыл бұрын

Love your video！Homeschool doesn't mean to have a miniature public school in home.

@moore2life36 7 жыл бұрын

Thank you for articulating yourself in such a way that many of us only wish we could. As I watched I was like, Wow is anyone else thinking she is right on target?! Then I notice all the women who could relate in the comments! Every point resonated with me.

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

+Moore 2Life, aww, this is such a nice compliment. Thanks for making my day!

@robertvangorder1983 6 жыл бұрын

Thank you again... I am just starting...and you sound a lot like me... I needed these super important reminders... 😊

@ProjectHappyHome 6 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching!

@elenav2661 6 жыл бұрын

Very nice advice. I'm homeschooling right now for the first time and I've got a 7, 4 and 3 year old. It's been about 5 weeks and I'm still challenged on finding a rhythm. But I'm not giving up. We definitely need a smooth, relaxed flow because although my daughter was an excellent student in kinder and first grade, she is very challenging with me as the mom and teacher. And we have done a very light work load thus far. I'll look forward to seeing other videos of yours.

@ProjectHappyHome 6 жыл бұрын

Your kiddos are right around the same age as mine! They are almost 8, 4.5, and newly 3 right now. We don't have a set rhythm yet either - but I'm much more relaxed about our not-picture-perfect days this year. And we're finding our groove as we go! I wish you the best of luck in your first year homeschooling, and welcome to the tribe! Thanks so much for watching and taking the time to comment.

@elenav2661 6 жыл бұрын

Yes they are the same. My two oldest will be 8 and 5 this winter and the youngest is newly 3 too (July). Wow!! I am racking my brain to try to get a good thing going but patience will have to be my best friend. Take care!

@aliciahupprich187 4 жыл бұрын

We are finally committing to homeschool this year after considering if for a few years. My daughter completed K & 1st grade, but the current pandemic has us finally taking the plunge. Your tip on deschooling intrigued me. I looked up the process and recommended time to do so and it seems we have been deschooling this summer. I going to make it even more intentional the next 6 weeks before we begin homeschooling. I’ve also been obsessing over curriculum with my nervous energy and I’m going to be trying to take a step back from that. Thankfully it was mostly at Dollar Tree where I did that!

@ProjectHappyHome 4 жыл бұрын

Sounds about right, lol. You’ve definitely found the homeschooling path if you’re obsessing over curriculum. Being able to take a step back so early in the journey bodes well!! Good luck!

@ARRRGHSchooling 7 жыл бұрын

Great video! I'm finding this series a little late, but I love watching them! We all have to figure things out as we go - some of those things took me YEARS to learn. I still have to battle against the urge to purchase every cool new curriculum that comes on the scene.

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

Thanks, Emily! Yes, I expect I have will have many more things to learn and unlearn as we go. And I'm continuously amazed by how different my kids are from each other, which throws a (probably lucky and necessary) wrench into my plans.

@wesproutwestendsprout4343 7 жыл бұрын

What a great collab, you all covered all my mistakes! I over-planned too, haha! How do you find homeschooling events in your area? I hear you on the cultural differences, it's been hard to find other secular homeschoolers. I've been debating whether or not to join a local co-op next year so thanks for the advice!

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

I still have hope that we'll find a good fit one day. CC was great in many ways, it just wasn't the right fit for us. We generally find events by joining the local homeschool activity groups and signing up for meet-ups, etc. I've been lucky enough to find a few friends who gel with our peculiar brand of humor. Lol!

@LeslieMaddox 7 жыл бұрын

Yes to all of this! I love watching videos by moms that homeschool in a different way than I do so that I retain the perspective that there are a lot of different ways to do homeschooling, but it does take some self-control to not then try to mold myself into another's image. And I also had a disappointing experience with a co-op this year. I hoped that it would be a fit since it was a Christian-based co-op and I am a Christian, but I found that idealogical similarities were not enough to overcome differences in background, behavior, and maturity. I have lots of thoughts, opinions, observations, and theories about how women relate to each other in group settings, but this is probably not the best forum to share those. ;-) Keep on being you, mama, you're just what your kids need.

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

Leslie, I hear you! One day, we'll have to talk and share our experiences. I agree, it takes self control - and maturity - to embrace our own uniqueness. Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts.

@ourfamilyvideos7283 3 жыл бұрын

Great video...with your children being young ..play really is a great start... they learn so much from interest lead play. K-7 especially you’ll repeat a lot of learning like history,science,reading...so enjoy this time ....when they hit upper grades it can get more formal...our hindsight regret.

@ProjectHappyHome 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the encouragement!

@henazya 5 жыл бұрын

Feel like hugging u. So honest. Bless you!!

@ProjectHappyHome 5 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the sweet comment!

@ProjectHappyHome 5 жыл бұрын

Sending you a virtual hug right back!

@daniellemnvlogs 7 жыл бұрын

Great advice!!! :)

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

Thanks, my friend!

@amandaponder1251 6 жыл бұрын

You are such a great resource. My son is 6 and is currently in 1st grade. Public school is not for him. He was diagnosed with odd and adhd and I really feel he would do so much better at home. I did preschool with him at home and he loved learning. I'm going to homeschool him beginning 2nd grade and I am currently beginning to amass as many resources as possible to be prepared. So grateful to have happened up on your channel!

@ProjectHappyHome 6 жыл бұрын

Thanks so much for watching and taking the time to share. I love learning about who is actually watching - and what videos are actually helpful. I'm so excited for you both in your homeschool journey! My son responded so swiftly to homeschool - the attention and freedom it brought was a gift to us both. I wish you the very best!!

@meerakibe2159 5 жыл бұрын

Hi Tanya , Your videos are so inspiring ! I am convinced about homeschooling my 8 year old next year / fall 2019. I read your blog on BookShark , Do you still use it or did you use it as s stating point . I need some structure to follow it’s my first attempt at home schooling . I love CM but cannot implementing without a scripted curriculum. I particularly like the Nancy Larson science curriculum . How does one go about using the structure of Sharkbook but customizing it a bit .

@ProjectHappyHome 5 жыл бұрын

I used Bookshark as a starting point, and I think it’s a great program, particularly for history. Nowadays I use Build Your Library and Torchlight for history. If you want to see more bookshark videos, be sure to check out my friend Candice’s videos (her channel is Homeschool on the Hill). She’s one of my favorite people ever and an amazing homeschool mom.

@LiveAlaska 6 жыл бұрын

What a beautiful idea!! We put so many pressures and comparisons on ourselves as homeschool parents. We are a homeschool channel in North Pole Alaska and love working togetehr with other moms and families. We would love to be part of the tag. How should we go about being added?

@ProjectHappyHome 6 жыл бұрын

I think the playlist linked in the description will allow you to simply add your video, but in case you run into trouble, just post your link in the comments and I’ll add it for you! Can’t wait to hear your thoughts!

@leslieinadress 7 жыл бұрын

This is year 5 for us and I still don't know who I am.

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

Hahahaha! I expect I'll be the same in another 4 years.

@autostoppeuse 7 жыл бұрын

Deschooling...One concept that Julie Bogart (Bravewriter) brought to my attention was "feathering in" (I think that's what she calls it?). Meaning instead of starting Day 1 with 4 hours of structured school, you "feather in" your subjects. So you might start the school year off by beginning your read aloud and playing a game together. In a couple of days, you add math, etc etc. So you ease into school..

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

I love this idea! And I'm a Julie Bogart super-fan, so bring on the wisdom! Thanks so much for sharing and good luck!

@difordice 6 жыл бұрын

I have a son in preschool right now, he is four. I have been back and forth on homeschooling for years, but I find it so overwhelming. How did you decide to homeschool, and how did you get started?

@PlatypusAdventureAcademy 7 жыл бұрын

😍 love this tanya thank you for sharing this. I will definitely be joining you in this collab.Farhiya

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

Loved your video - thanks again for joining in!

@blossoming633 7 жыл бұрын

Doctor/lawyer ? Wow. I really like your videos, thank you for being honest.

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

☺Thanks so much for watching and taking the time to comment!

@MyJewishMommyLife 7 жыл бұрын

Aww ya it's like at least you recognize and move forwRd!

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

Thanks! Growth mindset helps for sure.

@shayj3372 6 жыл бұрын

TY so much for sharing. Very curious what are your thoughts on Wordly Wise now?? TY again.

@ProjectHappyHome 6 жыл бұрын

We never really made it through more than a few lessons of Book 1. And it was just way to simplistic and easy for my son, who has always been advanced and at ease with reading/vocab. So I don't know how I feel about it - it was completely unnecessary for my son. And, truth be told, I find vocabulary curricula (not including root word curricula) rather unnecessary - especially in the early years. I'll probably send my set over to another homeschooling youtuber (after we move and I unpack), Jairy over at BoyBossMama, and she may review it if she ends up using it next year. :)

@shayj3372 6 жыл бұрын

Very good.. TY very much! (:

@abawari6271 7 жыл бұрын

Hello Tanya Great video. As I am thinking of homeschooling my only son once he is done with Montessori kindergarten, was so much looking forward to classical conversation (I think you are mentioning about the same one where parent accompany their children and it's primarily drawn from Bible) but did have my doubts as we are Hindus and have few different beliefs. And now I am in total doubt about it and I loved the way they presented themselves. I would love to know about the alternatives where I can outsource few subjects here in USA. I must say it was hard to find Indians doing homeschooling and making video, I found none, so thankful to you for doing this 🙏🏻

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

Hi, Avinanda - I do not want to make you feel doubtful about your decision to join CC. It is a great program in many ways, and I did make a dear friend from there, and I have another lovely friend who is a new CC director. It is a very nice scaffolding to have in your first year. But I would advise you to sit in one as many classes/morning meetings as you can before committing. Every group will be different, regardless of the umbrella organization - so I wish you the best of luck! You may find that your CC coop is a great fit for your family. Just because it didn't work for us, does NOT mean that it wouldn't work for you. At every step in the journey, trust your gut instinct. And always remember that your homeschool will evolve as time passes - and that's a good thing! Best of luck!

@tashiba-thejoyfulwarrior6445 6 жыл бұрын

I’m sure this is not on this video but what company did you order the nature animal drawings from? Sorry, I saw it on another one of your videos & your Instagram!

@ProjectHappyHome 6 жыл бұрын

Ta'Shiba Brannon, I’m sorry, which ones? If you could describe it a bit more, maybe I can help. 🙂

@journalsofathirddensitytra3498 3 жыл бұрын

Wow thanks!! First year here!!

@ProjectHappyHome 3 жыл бұрын

I hope your first year is going well! Be gentle with yourself! 💚

@meghnakariro7462 6 жыл бұрын

Hi Tanya! I recently started homeschooling my son (8) about over a month. I wish I had known the concept of deschooling. I along with my son am feeling very overwhelmed and at a loss. I am constantly questioning myself if I made a mistake. Also because this is so different from what I have seen all my life (I was born and brought up in India FYI). Your video is very encouraging but I was hoping if you may be willing to talk or exchange some specific ideas for parents like me to help in this difficult time.

@ProjectHappyHome 6 жыл бұрын

I wish I had known about it at the start as well! If you want to chat more, just email me at contactprojecthappyhome@gmail.com and we can talk!

@SodbusterLiving 7 жыл бұрын

I love your comment on teaching based on who you are. That is awesome.

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

Thanks, my friend! That's what I love about homeschooling - that we can truly design and nurture our own unique environment.

@jessiemadanat5455 6 жыл бұрын

So true

@kjerstieilers114 7 жыл бұрын

Yes, yes, yes!!!

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

:) Thanks so much for watching!

@misfithomemaker3683 5 жыл бұрын

Oh my goodness, I know EXACTLY what you are talking about with the homeschool co-op because I'm Muslim. I experienced something similar with a very Christian girl scout group. Like you said, they were all perfectly kind...I just feel I don't fit. The reality for me is I may not fit with a Muslim group either because I'm a revert, I grew up in Oklahoma and I grew up Christian. I am looking at doing something like 4 H since we live on a farm. It's very hard for people who are different, or straddle 2 world's.

@TheCookingChronicleswithIngrid 7 жыл бұрын

Wow, it's amazing how similar our answers are! I agree with your number 5 we must be very cautious with choosing a co-op. Thank you so much for creating this collab I know it will help a lot of new homeschoolers! I uploaded my video, I don't think it automatically uploaded on to the playlist though.

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

Thanks so much for participating! I added your video to the playlist.

@ronhutchcraft2290 6 жыл бұрын

I have a question, My name is Ron and I live in Georgia. I heard you say (Christian) so I looked on your channel for a video that kind of revolves around an introduction of your family and core beliefs, I have noticed that Homeschooling is a mainly Christian practice. Do you find that to be true? I am Christian myself and Homeschooling is a growing trend in the area I live in.

@ProjectHappyHome 6 жыл бұрын

Hi, Ron. We have only homeschooled in TX, and it was definitely more common to encounter a Christian homeschooler and Christian homeschooling coops than secular/other ones. But I have made so many friends in that community! It takes more work to find secular groups in the homeschooling world, but they’re there. 🙂

@thanujaz7975 6 жыл бұрын

Love this! Just subscribed to your channel. I'll be homeschooling my son for his last year of preschool, and I came across your channel whole looking for curriculums that for our needs.

@ProjectHappyHome 6 жыл бұрын

Thanks so much for watching! I have some preschool videos from last year that may be helpful!

@moshka007 6 жыл бұрын

How about the reason of falling out of your cariculum because just kids don't want to study today? That is my challenge, they just don't want to study at times, they just want to play with each other. (5and 6y.olds). That seems very challenging. I need to bribe them and take stuff away to motivate them. Not all the time but at times.

@ProjectHappyHome 6 жыл бұрын

I think getting into a routine (this is school time, that is play time) and perhaps switching off (one kid studies while other plays, 10 min at a time) would be a good step. I find hat when they know exactly what is coming and when (a timer!), they settle down. We generally switch between head (writing/sit down activity), heart (read aloud, fine art, music), head, body (PE, dance party, yoga), and hands (handicraft, arts and crafts, building). 20-30 min intervals. Keeps thing fun and moving. Good luck!

@SparksandBubbles 7 жыл бұрын

What do you mean you cannot be all these awesome homeschool mom ??!! HAHAHAHAhahahahaha..... I am the same.... and the curriculum collector too....Live and learn.....

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

HAHAHAHA! I know, if only we could be every type of awesome mom! I'm hoping to do better in the curriculum department this year.

@LittleHoneybeeHome 7 жыл бұрын

New subscriber!

@ProjectHappyHome 7 жыл бұрын

Thanks!

@CookieCrumbFun 6 жыл бұрын

Here is my video. I can't seem to add it. sorry to bother you with it. KZfaq is a pain sometimes, right? Your year went well it seems. We do learn and make the next year even better. We are in our 12th year of homeschool and I am still making mistakes and learning. kzfaq.info/get/bejne/isd6jKR62s7Qhmg.html

@ProjectHappyHome 6 жыл бұрын

+Claire at Cookie Crumb Fun , can't wait to check it out! I added it!