Introvert Homeschooling Extroverts: Tips and Tricks
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I hung around the outskirts of this party, doing my best to act cool…aloof…and to not make eye contact with anyone.
The last thing I wanted was for some well-meaning parent to introduce themselves and me, being the socially awkward person that I am, respond with, “I like soup.”
Why was I here at a party with nearly seventy people…mostly strangers…if I’m not a people person?
Furthermore, what is the socially acceptable time frame in which to collect my children and make our departure?
Simple.
I’m an introverted mom to two extroverted children, and they were having the time of their lives at our homeschool co-op Halloween party.
I, on the other hand, was trying not to have a panic attack….
Also, two hours…and a whole bag of chocolate…
You’re welcome.
When Your Child is an Extrovert and You’re Not!
My children are social butterflies. They thrive in environments full of people and interaction. As extroverts, being in those types of situations energizes and fulfills them.
For me, those types of social interactions are physically exhausting. I find it challenging to balance giving my kids the stimulating environment they need while tending to my own needs for quiet solitude.
It’s so peopley out there, folks!
I start to feel worn down.
Additionally, I may need a nap afterward.
Introvert Homeschooling Extroverts
Introvert mom problem #253
My first instinct when I see a four-legged, furry creature is to say hello!
My first instinct when I’m at a gathering of PEOPLE is to hide along the fringes of said gathering and get to know my new four-legged furry friend.
Maybe this isn’t a problem at all, but an introvert perk?
As an introvert, I can’t stand small talk. I prefer big juicy conversations with depth and scope.
I hate big crowds. My preference would be a few close friends at home or out in nature.
I prefer to listen and observe others rather than being the center of attention.
This fella and I got along perfectly!
Introvert Homeschooling Extroverts: Tips and Tricks
Introvert mom problem #961
Make a phone call or be eaten by a dinosaur?
Well, that’s not even a question! Be eaten by a dinosaur!
Obviously.
Of course, when you’re eaten by a dinosaur it hinders the process of calling to make appointments….
What’s an Introvert Mom to do?
1. We introvert moms have to push ourselves into social situations for our children. Encouraging relationships outside of the immediate family is paramount for our kids.
2. Play dates and field trips are HUGE for our extroverted kiddos. Be sure to plan or attend them often, though sometimes we may need to keep the playdates short. But giving our extroverts a chance to get out is super beneficial.
3. Extracurricular activities can be life savers! Now, I don’t mean for you to feel like you must go out and have your child join every extracurricular class out there. I don’t mean that at all. But if you find something – be it art, music, or science – that your kiddo adores, these classes give them a social outlet. For our family, both ballet theatre and ballet classes have been a huge blessing.
4. Let them talk it out. I find that giving my extroverts one-on-one time with me gives them a wonderful conversational outlet. They love to talk and they have fantastic ideas and observations. I love to listen, so it’s a beautiful pairing.
When Your Child is an Extrovert and You’re Not!
If you’re an introvert homeschooling extrovert children, then you know how hard it is. Remember that we need downtime and solitude. Quiet time during the afternoons or evenings, where everyone does their own thing for a short time, can be just what an introvert mom needs.
I’ve been known to put one of our favorite audiobooks on for the children while they play with Legos or Play-doh!
Even an extra long shower or getting up before the kids and savoring that early morning quiet can make you feel loads better!
What tips do you have for an introvert homeschooling extroverts?
Erin Vincent is a homeschooling mom to two intense kids. They are child led with a heavy emphasis on read alouds, games, art, nature hikes, and hands on science! They traded the hustle and bustle of city life for the quiet farm life where opportunities for exploration in nature abound. When they're not homeschooling you'll find Erin curled up with a cup of coffee and a good book!. You can find Erin at Nourishing My Scholar.
Erin, this is SO ME! Mine is such an extravert and I’m the opposite. Mine is only 4 now, so we haven’t fully immersed into the homeschooling world yet, but I am dreading the small talk. I’m prepared to be mentally exhausted in the future. LOL!
Thanks, Erin. I really enjoyed reading this (buffered it).
I had an introverted mom talking to me the other day and she was saying that if she only had one child, she probably shouldn’t homeschool because they wouldn’t get social interaction. But, I feel this really provides the solution. We need to get out of our comfort zone for our kids, huh.