A Simple 2026 Reading Challenge for Homeschool Moms (and Their Spouses)

January is already flying by (how is it January 15th already?!), and if you’re anything like most homeschool moms, you may be realizing that your well‑intentioned New Year’s resolutions didn’t quite fit into real life.

So let’s try something different—something realistic, life‑giving, and actually doable in the middle of homeschooling, parenting, and everyday responsibilities.

Enter: the 2026 “Read 12 Books Together” Challenge.

This year, The Lively Bean is inviting homeschool moms—and their spouses—to read one book a month for the rest of the year. You’ll each have your own book lists (no pressure to like the same genres!), but you’ll share the rhythm, the habit, and the encouragement.

This isn’t about perfection. It’s about reconnecting with reading, modeling lifelong learning for your kids, and carving out small pockets of time that are just for you and your spouse.

Why a Reading Challenge Works for Homeschool Families

As homeschool parents, we spend so much time focused on our children’s learning that our own growth often gets pushed aside. Yet reading as adults has powerful ripple effects throughout the entire family.

Here’s why this challenge is especially meaningful for homeschool moms:

Reading as an adult isn’t just another good habit—it’s one of the simplest ways to refill your own cup while you’re pouring so much into your family. When reading is part of your everyday life, it gently shapes the atmosphere of your home without requiring extra planning, prep, or energy.

• You’re modeling a love of reading. Kids notice when you choose books over screens.
• You’re reinforcing lifelong learning. Education doesn’t end after graduation.
• You’re caring for your mental health. Reading reduces stress and improves focus.
• You’re reconnecting with your spouse. Even quiet, shared goals build connection.

And the best part? One book a month is achievable—even in busy seasons.

How the 2026 Reading Challenge Works

This challenge is intentionally flexible. No rigid rules. No guilt. Just a gentle framework.

The Goal

• Read 12 books total in 2026 (January–December)
• One book per month
• Each spouse creates their own reading list

What Counts as a Book?

• Physical books
• E‑books
• Audiobooks (yes, they absolutely count!)

Choose what works best for your season of life.

Creating Your Personal Reading List

One reason reading habits fail is because we choose books we think we should read instead of books we actually want to read.

Give yourself permission to enjoy this.

Ideas for Your Reading List

This is where you can intentionally lower the bar. Your reading list doesn’t need to be impressive, educational, or productive—it just needs to be realistic for this season of life.

You might include:

• Fiction you’ve always meant to read
• Personal growth or mindset books
• Parenting or homeschooling encouragement
• Faith‑based or inspirational reads
• Light, fun novels for busy months

Your spouse’s list may look completely different—and that’s okay. Different interests can actually make conversations richer when you share what you’re reading with one another.

A Simple Place to Start: Books You Never Got Around To

If creating a brand‑new reading list feels like too much, start by looking backward instead of forward.

Think about:

• Books you bought in previous years but never opened
• Titles you added to your reading list “for later”
• Books sitting on your shelf that felt interesting but never urgent

Pulling from books you already own removes decision fatigue and makes starting feel much lighter. Often, the book you meant to read is exactly the one you need right now.

Helpful Tip: Keep a short “backup list” for months when your original pick just isn’t working.

Finding Time to Read (Even When Life Feels Full)

Let’s be honest—finding time usually means intentionally reclaiming small pockets that already exist.

Here are some realistic, homeschool‑mom‑approved ideas. These aren’t about finding extra time—they’re about using the margins you already have:

After Bedtime (Especially on Non‑Bath Nights)

Once the kids are in bed and the house is quiet, even 10–20 minutes can make real progress.

Early Morning Reading

If you’re already waking up early for quiet time or planning, try adding a few pages of reading before the day begins.

Audiobooks During Daily Life

Listen while:

• Driving to activities or co‑op, sitting in waiting rooms, or waiting at ballet lessons
• Folding laundry
• Walking the dog
• Making dinner

Swap Scroll Time for Reading

Even replacing five minutes of scrolling with reading adds up over a month.

Create a Gentle Reading Routine

Think of this less as a routine and more as a default choice. When you have a quiet moment, reading becomes the thing you reach for—no tracking, timers, or checklists required. Not a strict schedule—just a loose plan you can return to.

Reading Together Without Reading the Same Book

This challenge isn’t about sitting side‑by‑side reading the same chapters (unless you want to!). Instead, it’s about shared intention.

Simple Ways to Connect Over Reading

You don’t need deep discussions or book reports. Even brief check‑ins help reinforce the habit and remind you that you’re doing this together.

• Share a takeaway from your book
• Mention something interesting you learned
• Celebrate finishing a book together
• Talk about what you want to read next

These small moments build connection without adding pressure.

The Benefits of Reading as a Homeschool Parent

When homeschool moms prioritize reading, the benefits quietly extend far beyond finishing a book. Reading becomes a form of rest, reflection, and renewal—something that supports you emotionally and mentally throughout the homeschool year.

Reading regularly as an adult does more than check a resolution box.

For You

• Improved focus and mental clarity
• Reduced stress and overwhelm
• Creative refreshment
• A sense of personal accomplishment

For Your Marriage

• Shared goals
• Encouraging conversations
• Mutual support

For Your Kids

• Visible modeling of reading
• Reinforced value of learning
• A home culture that prioritizes books

Your kids don’t need perfection—they need example.

Starting Late? You’re Right on Time

One of the biggest barriers homeschool moms face is the feeling that they’ve already fallen behind. This challenge is intentionally designed to remove that pressure.

If January didn’t go as planned, you’re not behind.

Starting on January 16th still gives you plenty of time to read 12 books this year. And if you miss a month? You simply pick it back up.

This challenge is meant to support your homeschool life—not add another thing to feel guilty about.

Make This the Year You Read Again

In the middle of lesson plans, activities, meals, and everyday responsibilities, reading can become a quiet anchor.

One book a month. Your own list. Your own pace.

And a gentle reminder that your growth matters too.

If you’re looking for a warm, manageable New Year’s resolution for 2026, this might be the one that finally sticks.

💜 From all of us at The Lively Bean—happy reading.