For many years now, I’ve been mostly a stay-at-home mom, who also homeschools her kids. That sounds so very calm and easy compared to what I actually do. So, here’s my job description.
Homeschool Mom
I’m the curriculum writer, coordinator, and selection officer for a very small private school where I am also the sole teacher for multiple grade levels. At that small school, I deliver a one-on-one personalized education to each child, taking into account their learning styles, ability levels, and interests.
It is also my job to help those children develop self-care skills, life skills, and social skills and to become good people. As part of that, I manage their social calendars, take them to social activities, and create opportunities for friendships and group activities.
Beyond those, I coordinate summer camps and additional classes such as dance and piano lessons. The wide range of enrichment activities my children have participated in all required scheduling, applications, transportation, and research to make them happen. Many things my children have participated in require that I do extensive research to find the best opportunities for them.
Homemaker
I’m a household manager. I make sure our home is in good working order and that it is well stocked with all necessary supplies from food to toilet paper, from school supplies to developmentally appropriate non-toxic toys and games. And I do it all on a budget!
I’m the family meal planner and chef, serving three meals a day with a variety of nutrients taking into account the allergies, preferences, and needs of our growing children. As part of this role, I have learned to make quick and easy meals as well as holiday meals, birthday dinners, special occasion meals, and desserts.
I coordinate appointments for five family members, ensuring a lack of conflicts and getting them all to those appointments.
I also oversee and provide pet care for our two dogs and two guinea pigs. This role has required me to obtain training classes, schedule and attend vet appointments, and research pet foods that also take into account my children’s food allergies.
Community Member
Part of the work I have done in my life that I am most proud of is how I have been able to contribute to my community. Because I can, I’ve done many things.
I’ve been a scout leader with two different organizations and led not only my own children but other people’s children in learning a wide range of skills. Scouting requires children to face challenges. However, it also requires sending tons of communication, collecting dues, scheduling meetings, and keeping up a range of activities that are both traditional and fresh.
I’ve been a homeschool co-op coordinator and organizer. I’ve also taught at multiple co-ops, working with ages 4 to 18. Each class required me to lesson plan, source supplies, teach, and take into account the specific needs of the group of students I was working with at the time.
How About You?
I bet you’ve done many of these things. Your list may even be far more impressive. I give you permission to steal all of this that applies to you and share with your family and friends how awesome you are. This job often seems thankless. We don’t get paid. We don’t get acknowledged. We don’t get a 401K. But we make the world better and we should be very proud of that.
