Homeschooling families all have their own unique rhythms for school. While some like to have school for six weeks and then a week or two as a break, others will have school breaks when the public-school kids do. For our family’s schedule a long summer break just works the best. We have a ministry called Camp Life (find out more about our ministries here or here) that takes place in May, June, and July. Taking a longer summer break allows our family to be present and active during that time for ministry in Lusaka, Zambia. Personally, I love to use that time to research and plan for the year to come. I prayerfully read books that will also teach me, encourage me and stretch my thinking. Below you will find a sample of the many homeschooling and mothering books that I have turned to for encouragement over the summer to prepare me for what is to come. I pray that they will be encouraging books for you as a homeschooling mother before the school year begins or during any time of the year.
1. Teaching From Rest by Sarah Mackenzie
I have read this book each year for the last 8+ years. It is the balm as well as the exhortation that my soul needs as I focus on the task that the Lord has for me over the next year. She thoughtfully reminds us that we are just fish and bread for the Lord to use for His service. This is the place that I would start if you were looking for an encouraging homeschool book this summer. It is not a long read, but it will give you a lot to think about as you spiritually prepare for the school year. (Check out Sarah Mackenzie’s Read Aloud Revival here.)
2. Educating the Whole-Hearted Child by Clay and Sally Clarkson
This is a wonderful resource and encouragement for any Christian homeschool family. “You can make your home a vibrant center of living and learning for your children. Whole-Hearted Learning is simply cooperating with God’s eternal design for your family, home, and children. It’s all about discipleship, whole books, and real life.” Use this trusted resource to give you hope as you work to balance life and school and to train your children Biblically.
3. Honey for a Child’s Heart by Gladys Hunt
There are several books out there like this, but I find this book as a fabulous resource for mothers. Gladys encourages families to read by providing many book lists for children ages 0-12. She gives tips on how to pick books but also includes many classic books that are perfect for homeschool children to feast on. This updated version contains both old and new books.
4. The Unhurried Homeschooler by Durenda Wilson
“Drawing on twenty years of homeschooling her eight children, Durenda Wilson gently reminds parents about the things that really matter, as she offers a clear portrait of what a life-giving home life can be during the homeschooling years. Reading The Unhurried Homeschooler is like having coffee with a trusted friend. You’ll be encouraged as you learn to do what God has put before you. This book will lighten your load while helping you learn how to raise life-long learners and ENJOY the homeschool years with your kids.”
5. The Life-Giving Parent by Sally Clarkson
“In The Lifegiving Parent, respected authors and parents Clay and Sally Clarkson explore eight key principles—heartbeats of lifegiving parenting—to shed light on what it means to create a home where your children will experience the living God in your family. Now parents of four grown children—each with their own unique personality and gifts—Sally and Clay have learned (sometimes the hard way!) that the key to shaping a heart begins at home as you foster a deep and thoughtful God-infused relationship with each child. Filled with biblical insight and classic Clarkson stories, The Lifegiving Parent will equip you with the tools and wisdom you need to give your children much more than just a good Christian life. You’ll give them the life of Christ. (Don’t miss the companion piece, The Lifegiving Parent Experience!)”
There are many other books by Sally Clarkson that I have personal enjoyed and been challenged by. The two books below are wonderful reads for mothers of all ages, but especially for mothers with young children or children in elementary school.
What homeschooling and mothering books have been an encouragement to your heart and soul? Would you share those in the comments below? If you have any to add to this list, we would like to know as well. Let’s work together to encourage each other in the homeschool year ahead!
To find more resources for the Biblically-Minded Family, please click here.
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