How Homeschool Moms Can Choose Electives for Themselves: A Guide to Hobbies, Learning, and Personal Growth

Homeschooling moms spend so much time curating the perfect curriculum, organizing lesson plans, and making sure their children get a well-rounded education. But what about you? Just like your kids, you deserve the opportunity to learn, grow, and explore new interests! Choosing electives for yourself each homeschool term can be a game-changer for your well-being, creativity, and confidence. In this guide, we’ll explore how to pick personal electives, balance learning with homeschooling, and find joy in new hobbies.

Why Homeschool Moms Should Have Their Own Electives

Taking time for yourself isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. Engaging in personal electives can:

• Prevent burnout and refresh your mindset.

• Boost creativity and problem-solving skills.

• Provide an opportunity to model lifelong learning for your kids.

• Help you develop new skills that could turn into income opportunities.

• Encourage a healthier work-life balance.

When you prioritize your interests, you show your children that learning is a lifelong journey and that personal growth matters at every stage of life.

Brainstorming Electives That Fit Your Life

Not sure where to start? Here’s a simple brainstorming exercise to help you discover an elective that aligns with your interests and lifestyle:

1. Reflect on Past Interests – Think about hobbies or activities you enjoyed before homeschooling. Is there something you’ve set aside that you’d love to revisit?

2. Consider Your Current Needs – Do you want to relax, improve a skill, or explore a new career opportunity? Identifying your needs can help narrow your choices.

3. Look at Your Daily Routine – Find gaps in your day where you can incorporate something new, even if it’s just 10-15 minutes.

4. Ask Yourself What Excites You – What books, podcasts, or activities naturally draw your attention? This could indicate a subject or hobby worth exploring.

5. Write Down 5 Ideas and Rate Them – Jot down five potential electives, then rate them based on interest level, practicality, and time commitment.

Once you’ve brainstormed, choose one that excites you the most and start exploring ways to integrate it into your routine!

Finding the Perfect Elective for Your Homeschool Journey

1. Identify What Inspires You

Think about the things you’ve always wanted to try or the hobbies you once loved but set aside. Here are some questions to guide you:

• What hobbies or skills have always interested me?

• Are there any areas I’d like to improve in my daily life?

• Do I want an elective for relaxation, self-improvement, or both?

2. Assess Your Available Time

Your schedule might be packed, but even short bursts of time can make a difference. Consider how much time you can realistically commit to a new activity. If you have 15 minutes a day, you can still learn something new!

3. Choose an Elective That Matches Your Season of Life

• If you’re in a busy season (new baby, moving, big homeschool changes), opt for low-effort electives like journaling, reading, or short meditation sessions.

• If you have more flexibility, consider skill-building electives that require more time, like learning an instrument or taking an online course.

Elective Ideas for Homeschool Moms

Creative & Artistic Electives

• Painting or Drawing – Take an online art class or use a sketchbook to explore your creativity.

• Hand Lettering or Calligraphy – A great way to make homeschool projects and decor more beautiful.

• Photography – Learn to capture family moments more artistically.

Personal Development & Learning

• Foreign Language – Join an online course to learn Spanish, French, or another language alongside your kids.

• Writing or Blogging – Start a personal journal or launch a blog about homeschooling, parenting, or any passion.

• Public Speaking – Improve communication skills by joining a Toastmasters group or practicing online.

Health & Wellness Electives

• Yoga or Pilates – Find free YouTube classes or join a local studio.

• Strength Training or Running – Prioritize fitness with a structured plan.

• Mindfulness & Meditation – Reduce stress and practice self-care through guided meditation apps.

Practical & Life-Skills Electives

• Sewing or Knitting – Create handmade gifts or practical household items.

• Gardening – Grow your own herbs and vegetables, even if it’s just a small indoor garden.

• Meal Planning & Nutrition – Learn about healthier eating habits and efficient meal prep.

Electives That Can Turn Into Side Hustles

Many homeschool moms find joy in electives that can also become income-generating opportunities. Here are some hobbies that could evolve into side hustles:

• Writing & Blogging – Start a blog or freelance writing in niches like homeschooling, parenting, or personal interests.

• Graphic Design & Digital Art – Learn design skills using Canva and offer services for social media graphics, invitations, or printables.

• Photography – Capture special moments for families, local events, or even stock photography.

• Crafting & Handmade Goods – Sell handmade products on Etsy, like jewelry, home décor, or knitted goods.

• Tutoring & Teaching – Use your homeschooling experience to tutor kids in subjects you love or teach online courses.

Starting small with a skill you enjoy can open doors to financial opportunities while allowing you to explore your passion.

Budget-Friendly Ways to Pursue Electives

Not every elective needs to come with a big price tag. Here are some cost-effective ways to explore your interests:

• YouTube & Free Online Courses – Platforms like Coursera, Khan Academy, and Skillshare offer free courses in art, coding, languages, and more.

• Library Resources – Borrow books, audiobooks, and even video tutorials on skills like photography, writing, and crafting.

• Community Classes & Meetups – Many local libraries, community centers, community colleges and parks offer free or low-cost classes and interest groups.

• Bartering Skills – Trade your expertise with another mom who has a skill you want to learn.

• DIY Practice – Many hobbies, like painting, journaling, or gardening, can be done with minimal investment using supplies you already own.

These strategies make it easy to pursue your passions without stretching your budget.

Pro Tips to Enhance the Elective Experience

1. Batch Tasks to Make Room for Your Elective – Meal prep, laundry routines, and homeschool lesson planning can be batched so you can dedicate time to your elective.

2. Find a Community for Support – Join a Facebook group, forum, or local club related to your elective to stay inspired and learn from others.

3. Give Yourself a ‘Why’ – Write down why you want to pursue this elective. Having a deeper purpose makes it easier to stick with it.

Final Thoughts

As a homeschool mom, you give so much of yourself to your family’s education and well-being. But don’t forget—you are also a lifelong learner! Choosing an elective for yourself each term helps you stay energized, inspired, and fulfilled. Whether you pursue a creative hobby, practical skill, or personal development goal, investing in yourself ultimately benefits your entire family.

So, what elective will you choose this term? Set a goal today—pick one elective that excites you, write it down, and take the first step toward making it happen! Share your choice on the Lively Bean Facebook page!