Simple Tips For Homeschooling in Survival Mode
As a fellow homeschooling mom, I know firsthand how life’s unexpected twists and turns can make this journey feel overwhelming. Whether you’re facing an illness, a family loss, a natural disaster, or just one of those tough seasons of life, you’re not alone. Survival mode happens to all of us at some point, and there are ways to keep homeschooling manageable while also taking care of yourself. Let’s walk through this together.
Over the years I have had a lot of run-ins with homeschooling in survival mode. From the major accident that left me injured to having a new baby and even multiple deaths in the family in a single week. These phases of life do not last forever and your kids will be just fine if things don’t stay the course when you hit survival mode.
Take Care of Yourself First
Mama, you can’t pour from an empty cup! I know how easy it is to focus entirely on your family’s needs and forget about your own, but taking care of yourself is essential. Even small steps—getting enough sleep, eating nutritious meals, or finding time for a walk—can make a big difference.
During times of survival mode, this is even more essential than normal. If you do not meet your basic needs the situation will only get worse leading to burnout, illness, and even even depression.
Self-care doesn’t have to be complicated. A quick moment to breathe deeply, read a few pages of a book, or stretch can help you recharge. When you care for yourself, you’ll find it easier to have the energy, patience, and joy needed to guide your children through their learning.
Set Realistic Expectations
Survival-mode homeschooling won’t look like your usual days—and that’s okay. This is not the time for perfection or ambitious lesson plans. Focus on the essentials, and let go of the rest. Your children will learn and grow, even if your schedule looks simpler for now.
Remember, there’s no harm in taking things slower. You can always pick up the pace later when life settles down. Give yourself grace and trust that you’re doing enough.
Use tools at your disposal that help to make your life a little easier. From online programs like Khan Academy to premade lesson plans, there are a lot of great tools that can help you ensure your kids are learning even when you can not keep up on your own.
Make Time for Fun
In challenging seasons, joy can be one of the best medicines for both you and your kids. Play is essential for their development and your sanity! Incorporate fun wherever you can—whether it’s a board game, a craft project, or just tossing a ball around outside.
If possible, break up the routine with a short field trip or an outing to the park. These moments can refresh everyone’s spirits and create positive memories during an otherwise difficult time.
I like to keep a tote full of fun things like arts and crafts kits, coloring supplies, fidget toys, board games, and some active toys like a ball, skip it, or jump rope handy for when We need a fun break. This tote goes with us when we have to go to handle life events outside of the house as well. You would be shocked how handy these things can be at funerals and other moments when kids may need distraction.
Reach Out for Help
You don’t have to carry the weight of everything on your own. Reach out to your support network—friends, family, or other homeschool parents. Joining a co-op, connecting with a Facebook group, or simply asking a friend for advice can be a lifeline.
If you need extra hands, don’t hesitate to ask your partner or relatives to pitch in, even if it’s just for an hour so you can regroup. There are also online resources and tutors available if you need extra help with lessons. Do not try to take on the world right now.
Be Flexible
Homeschooling doesn’t have to fit into a rigid box—especially during tough times. Be willing to adapt your routine as needed. Skip a lesson, rearrange your schedule, or take a day off if it’s what your family needs.
Prioritize what matters most, and remind yourself that learning happens in all sorts of ways—not just through structured lessons. Right now you are struggling but this season will not last forever and you can always play catch up later when life gets a bit easier.
Embrace Connection
In survival mode, the traditional learning plan can take a backseat to something even more valuable: connecting as a family. Cook together (it’s a sneaky way to practice math and reading!), cuddle up with a stack of books, or watch a movie that sparks educational conversations.
These moments aren’t just about keeping up with academics; they’re about fostering love, curiosity, and resilience during a hard season.
Keep notes for later
It can be hard when you know that you are not getting everything done that you wanted to do. To help reduce the stress and worry keep notes of what you did get done and what you want to work on later when you have the ability. This will show you how much you are accomplishing while allowing you to keep track of what you need to come back to so you can stay on track after things settle.
You can do this in your homeschool planner or just keep a notebook to look back on later.
Remember Why You Started
When the days feel long and the challenges pile up, take a moment to reflect on your why. What made you choose this path? Whether it’s the flexibility, the focus on your child’s individual needs, or the joy of learning together, hold on to those reasons.
This hard season will pass, and the foundation you’re building now—despite the challenges—will benefit your family in the long run.
Homeschooling through survival mode isn’t easy, but it’s an opportunity to grow stronger as a family. By taking care of yourself, letting go of perfection, leaning into connection, and embracing flexibility, you can navigate this season with grace.
You don’t have to do it all—just do your best, love your kids, and give yourself permission to rest. Remember, you’ve got this, and your family will come out of this chapter stronger than before. 💕
