Overcoming Overstimulation as a Homeschooling Parent
What you won’t see in this article are the cliché stress management tips like "take deep breaths" or "focus on your mindset." While these are helpful tools, I’ll spare you the redundancy of hearing the same advice repeated. Instead, I’ll give you practical tools you can implement immediately, along with some that may require more effort, whether financial or physical. Let’s dive in.
As a mother of two toddlers and a newborn, this is a topic I have recently been struggling with and have firsthand experience in. Today, we're going to pull back the veil and discuss what we can do to overcome overstimulation as homeschooling parents. What you won’t see in this article are the cliché stress management tips like "take deep breaths" or "focus on your mindset." While these are helpful tools, I’ll spare you the redundancy of hearing the same advice repeated. Instead, I’ll give you practical tools you can implement immediately, along with some that may require more effort, whether financial or physical. Let’s dive in.
Prioritize a Good Night’s Sleep
A good night’s sleep sets the tone for the entire day. We’ve all heard the phrase, “Your day starts the night before.” If you haven’t, congratulations—this is a fun fact you can now share with others! In all seriousness, it’s easy to stay up late once your children are finally asleep. Whether your vice is TikTok, Instagram, Netflix, or something else, we often fall into the trap of "me time" that robs us of precious rest.
The benefits of quality sleep go far beyond just feeling rested. Sleep directly impacts your eating habits. Without sufficient rest, your body produces more ghrelin (the hunger hormone) and less leptin (the hormone that signals fullness), which can lead to increased cravings for unhealthy foods. This domino effect often results in reaching for sugary or carb-loaded snacks instead of preparing a nutritious, protein-packed breakfast. Sleep deprivation doesn’t just make you irritable; it’s a barrier to achieving your overall health goals, whether it’s losing weight, increasing energy, or improving mood.
If you’re struggling to relax before bed, try journaling with pen and paper or reading a book. Personally, I enjoy reading educational nonfiction, but fiction works just as well. Reading before bed not only helps you unwind but also improves focus and patience—two essential qualities for homeschooling parents.
Incorporate Exercise Into Your Day
Exercise is another powerful tool for managing overstimulation, and the best part is you can include your children! While it might not always seem appealing, especially during colder months, bundling up and taking a walk around the neighborhood can be incredibly refreshing. Walking gives you time to enjoy your favorite playlist or simply soak in the silence, all while reaping the mental and physical benefits of movement.
If outdoor exercise isn’t an option, there are countless free, short workout videos on YouTube. Whether it’s Pilates, dance, or bodyweight resistance training, you can find something that fits your interests and schedule. Exercise improves cardiovascular health, reduces cortisol (stress) levels, and boosts endorphins, making you better equipped to handle stress. Additional benefits include improved skin, mental clarity, stronger bones, and increased organ health. And let’s not forget the confidence boost that comes from sticking to a routine. You’ll feel great tossing on that cute outfit you’ve been saving, instead of defaulting to the same pair of sweatpants.
For parents, exercise also sets an excellent example for your children. It teaches them the importance of physical activity and gives you an opportunity to bond with them through movement, whether it’s a family yoga session or a spontaneous dance party.
Tools to Make Homeschooling Easier
Now that we’ve tackled lifestyle changes, let’s discuss a couple of tools you can purchase to make homeschooling a little less overwhelming. If you’re a "crunchy mom" like me and prefer screen-free options, the **Yoto Player** is a game-changer. It’s a child-friendly speaker that uses physical cards or digital downloads for music, audiobooks, and educational content. With features like customizable cards, daily podcasts, and timers for homework or cleaning, the Yoto Player keeps kids engaged while giving you a much-needed break. My children love waking up to Yoto Daily and exploring its features throughout the day.
If screen time is part of your routine, consider the **PBS Kids app**. It’s packed with low-stimulation, educational shows like *Little Bear*, *WordWorld*, and *Kipper the Dog*. The app also allows you to download episodes for offline viewing—a lifesaver during road trips or flights. It’s my go-to when I need 30 minutes to myself to take a shower or regroup.
Affiliate Disclaimer and Recommendations
Some of the links in this blog post may contain affiliate links, including those to products mentioned, such as the **Yoto Player** and the **PBS Kids app**. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. If you choose to purchase any of the items I’ve listed, I truly appreciate your support—it helps me continue to provide helpful content for homeschooling parents like you!
Final Thoughts
Being a homeschooling parent can be overwhelming, and it often feels like there’s no room to take a break. The guilt of turning on the TV or sending your kids outside to play all day can be a heavy burden. But it’s important to remember that taking care of yourself is not selfish—it’s necessary. Prioritizing sleep, incorporating exercise, and using tools like the Yoto Player or PBS Kids app are just a few ways to manage overstimulation and create a balanced environment for your family.
Parenting is hard, and homeschooling adds another layer of complexity. But by adding these strategies to your toolkit, you can navigate the challenges with more patience and resilience. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey, and every small step you take toward managing overstimulation benefits not just you, but your entire family. You’ve got this!