But trying to maintain academic schedules and goals that are unpleasant and frustrating for everybody in the family will turn you into a wreck in no time at all. The remedy for burnout is for the family to calmly rethink priorities. It doesn't matter if some collection of academic facts is learned this year or next, and, as homeschoolers, we have the power to make life reasonable for our children and for ourselves. Some families avoid conventional schooling practices altogether and choose instead to rely entirely upon daily life and the natural curiosity and eagerness of children. These parents may decide to provide resources, tools, support, and encouragement but no lessons and no timetable.
Many families decide to combine elements of both approaches.
You may feel very comfortable with reading or with history but not with mathematics or some other academic subjects. Every choice has its consequences, and these choices belong to you and your children. Although it is necessary to apply for homeschooling approval from the Maine Department of Education, it is possible to homeschool in this state without a daily schedule and without a formal curriculum. All that is required is a simple application, regular contact with a support system, some basic record keeping, and a yearly assessment of your child. It is practical, and it saves wear and tear on human nervous systems.