Oh no! They’re sick–again!
I sighed, pushing my planner to the corner of the schoolroom table.
There went my schedule, my goals, and our catch-up time in homeschool.
One sickness would likely hit each of my four children, one after another. Would we ever get back on track? I headed into the kitchen to make my daughter a cup of tea to soothe her throat.
We plan our school year expecting the best. If all goes according to plan, the curriculum we planned will be wonderful. Then scheduling complications, holidays, and unexpected events push our timeframe back. All of this can be discouraging.
To God, it is no surprise. He knew all along that my daughter would catch the flu and pass it on to her brothers.
Many are the plans in a homeschool mama’s heart,
But it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.”
(Proverbs 19:21, Homeschool Version).
If you are struggling with sick kids this month, take heart! They will still learn what they need to know.
- Your students will not need to catch up with classmates. They will pick up where they left off when they feel well.
- Sick days can be opportunities to slow down and learn differently. Maybe there’s a good book you can read while your sickies snuggle on the couch. Maybe there’s a great documentary or a movie based on the book you read last month. Indulge in some restful opportunities.
- If your students are taking long naps, use the time to plan some lessons for when they feel better.
- As your students heal, take learning chunks more slowly and let them rest frequently.
- Remember that flexibility is a wonderful character trait to model. As your kids see you adapt your plans, you are teaching a valuable life skill.
Ultimately, our school days are in God’s hands. If we persevere and adjust, our slow and steady pace really will win the race. Take heart, Mama, if your children are sick this week, they’ll be alright. Give it to God and take a breath. He will help you complete the very good work you have begun.
