We do very little in life in isolation. Maybe showering; But then again, someone built the shower, purified the water, and made your organic shampoo, so still, there were others involved. Homeschooling is no different. Some of us, like me, love to be surrounded by people. While others feel more comforted with a lower social involvement. We can’t do it alone. And guess what, we should not have to. Homeschooling for me is wonderful and when I can do it in partnership with others I look up to it is even more enriching. Sometimes we need support on this emotional, wonderful journey. 

My friend has been homeschooling for years and just had her first high school graduate. I can’t tell you how many times I have picked up the phone to ask advice, checked that I have not lost my mind or called to celebrate. Being in community is so important even if it means a close friend and a few Facebook groups.

I have the pleasure of partnering with Julia McGarey our wonderful teacher at Knowledge Seekers. It would not be the place it is today if Julia was not a part of the fabric that is KSHC. Did you know that I, Tess, the founder of KSHC do not have an educational background? Julia on the other hand has a wonderful past and present working with families in educational settings. Taking students’ lead and creating hands on experiences is her specialty.

I can’t educated my kids in isolation so I reached out to family, friends, and my community and created a school where all of our families needs are met. My kids are getting what they want and so am I. This may seem like an extreme solution for support but it can be as easy as reaching out to a friend or posting in a facebook group and even seeking professional advice. 

Sometimes homeschooling feels more like a parenting challenge than a “homeschool” one. When my boys were about three years old I was, to be honest, not doing well. It was a rough time for me. I was able to reach out to a parenting coach and have a one on one free consultation. After only 30 minutes I felt like I had 3 strategies to help. I was not pressured into spending $$$ I was simply supported in the moment.

Here are two parent support coaches that can help you though some tough moments and their wonderful offering to you all as my subscribers.

Megan Berella, a positive parenting coach, is one of these individuals that is here to truly support the whole family. I have followed her for years and she has always been in it for the families. She is so generous with her knowledge. Back when my boys were little I chatted with her and she provided me with kind support and take-a-ways that I could implement immediately. Happy Home Complimentary Masterclass with FREE 30-minute Coaching Session: Enjoy The Happy Home Week: a 5-day positive parenting masterclass and community service program for parents. Includes a complimentary 30-minute coaching experience. Register here to create a foundation of Connection + Cooperation in your family. megan.barella@gmail.com

Maya LeaJames is a conscious parent coach who helps mothers break free from cycles of overwhelm and guilt, empowering them to feel calmer, more confident, and in control—so they can actually enjoy parenting! Maya is offering you a FREE Redefine Reactions zoom coaching session with her. This is a free 1-hour coaching session for you to increase your authority over a parenting trigger you’re currently experiencing. During your time together you’ll explore your personal stress signature (the physiological signs that your body is entering an activated state) and create a customized strategy to respond rather than react going forward using new tools, understanding, and compassion. You can share a bit about what’s coming up for you in your parenting and you’ll leave equipped with action steps and the confidence you need to handle this parenting scenario differently the next time it arises. maya@mayaleajamescoaching.com www.mayaleajamescoaching.com

Massage by Izzy: I just received a massage from Izzy and it was wonderful! Truly relaxing and I got some of the kinks worked out in my body in a gentle and effective way.

Hello, I’m Izzy. My goal as a massage therapist is your relaxation. Massage does not have to be painful to be impactful. Simply relaxing is undeniably rejuvenating. Rejuvenation occurs when you take time out to focus on your wellbeing. Many aches and pains and injuries can benefit from relaxation. I enjoy working with the nervous system to ease into tight muscles. By bringing breath and awareness to tight parts of the body we bring relaxation. While I do go deeper into your muscles, I also understand the impact of stillness and gentleness to allow your body to feel safe to relax. A massage is a great way to slow down and focus on your wellbeing, and get a chance to listen to what your body needs. Please join me if you are interested in slowing your life down a bit more. Offer, first massage only $65 just email Izzy and mention Knowledge Seekers harger.isabel@gmail.com

Here are some FaceBook groups that I have found helpful in the past.

If you are looking for something specific let me know and I can help you find it.

Homeschoolers of Portland: https://www.facebook.com/groups/HomeschoolersOfPortland/

Oregon Homeschool Pods and Coops:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/homeschoolpodsandcoops/

Homeschooling in Oregon, Talk with OHEN: https://www.facebook.com/groups/HomeschoolingOregon/

Portland Micro-Schools:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/291372652226524/

Reach out and take a chance that you will find support and connection.

REMINDER-Kidokinetics and NECC (North East Community Center): I helped to get this class started and I’m excited to keep my boys moving. *It essentially pans out to be $10 per class, see flier for details. Register now so that you have something set up when the weather gets too cold for playing outside. North East Portland. Starting Mondays January 13th 9am-10am. Ages 7-11. https://www.kidokinetics.com/Event/Search

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