{Yes, I Work and Homeschool!} Meet Kathleen from Australia

This post is part of a series.

Tell us about the work you do, Kathleen. 

I’m a part-time volunteer for three organizations. I'm on the board for one and answer emails. (It's a parent support group.) For the other two, I'm a first point of contact for gifted/twice-exceptional (a.k.a “gifted/2e”) families for that organization in my area. I also run a website, edit a magazine, and write.

Tell us about why you chose to homeschool. 

We chose homeschooling as the only option for our 2e son. Our daughter is also 2e, and so we homeschool her too now. They are 10 and 6, respectively.

What are some of the challenges you face balancing working while homeschooling? What are some of the delights?

As for the challenges, the first is trying to fit all the work in in between other events. I often underestimate the amount of time it will take. Other challenges include making sure the kids have enough activities scheduled when I need to be working or thinking.

The delights? Having something I can sink my teeth into that is intellectually challenging while I educate my kids.

What's the best piece of advice you've ever received about homeschooling? What are your favorite homeschool resources?

Take it one year--or sometimes one day--at a time. Don't get upset at what doesn't get done. Instead, focus on what worked that day. My favorite resources include GHF: Gifted Homeschoolers Forum and the Home Education Network.

What's your best advice or tip for someone who wants to work and homeschool?

Have realistic expectations about what you personally can do. Be prepared to have some activities that can be done with low levels of supervision. Build in buffers and down time or you may find yourself getting run down and sick.

Thanks, Kathleen! 

Readers, you can follow Kathleen at YellowReadis.com as well as  Twitter, Facebook, and Pinterest.