Beyond the Books: How to Rediscover Joy in Your Homeschool

If you are currently struggling with overcoming homeschool self-doubt, I want you to know that you are in good company. I’ve seen so many messages this week from sisters who feel like they just aren't 'enough' for this journey. But what if the secret to homeschooling wasn't your patience or your setup, but your trust in the One who gave you these children?" ⭐️Our Sponsor: THE FUTURE EXPLORERS CLUB – https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/explorers ⭐️ Use code RAISINGMUMS5 for £5 off your subscription. "I wish I had the setup and the patience to homeschool." "I wish I was better at it; I’m forever doubting myself." These were two messages I received this week from sisters in our community, and honestly? They broke my heart a little because I’ve been there. We’ve all been there. If you are struggling with homeschool self-doubt, I want you to take a deep breath. In episode 100 of the Raising Mums podcast, we are going to unpack where that doubt comes from, why we look for validation in all the wrong places, and why "starting" is the only "setup" you actually need. The Trap of "I Wish" vs. Praiseworthy Hope Why don’t we trust ourselves? Most of us are still carrying the "ghost of the gold star"—a remnant of conventional schooling that trained us to crave external validation. We think we need a principal to tell us we are doing a good job. But Muslim homeschooling isn't about getting an 'A' from society; it’s about trust. The great Imam al-Ghazali, the scholar of the heart, once spoke about the difference between just "wishing" and having "praiseworthy hope." He taught us that expecting a harvest without ever planting a seed isn't hope ...it’s a delusion. If you want the results but aren't putting in the effort, it’s just a wish. True hope, the kind that invites barakah (blessing), is when we provide the means. We "tie the camel." We open the books. Only then can we truly hand the results over to Allah and find peace. The Real Homeschool "Setup" You might say you "wish" you had a Pinterest-perfect schoolroom, but what are you actually doing to make learning happen? Success isn't about the room; it’s about the rhythm. The Setup: It’s as simple as opening a book or taking a walk to the park. The Presence: Real setup is being mentally present: choosing to sit with your child while they struggle with a phonics sheet rather than scrolling through your phone. The Prioritizing: This doesn't mean "schooling" for 8 hours; it means giving your children your best energy rather than your leftovers. The Myth of Infinite Homeschooling Patience None of us has an infinite well of patience. We are human. Some days you are the "Zen Mum," and other days you lose your cool. Do not linger in that despair. There is a beautiful Hadith Qudsi where Allah says: "I am as My servant thinks of Me." If you believe Allah is only there to catch your mistakes, that is the relationship you will feel. But if you believe He is Ar-Rahman (The Most Merciful), who sees your effort and knows you are trying, that is what you will find. Trust that His Mercy is wider than your mistakes, and He will fill the gaps left behind in the moments where you lost your cool. Widen Your Vision The most pious, practicing women I know think big. They don't limit themselves because that would be to limit what Allah can do through them. A wise teacher once said: "Widen your vision." You aren't just teaching ABCs; you are raising the next generation of the Ummah. Be sincere, ask Him (Al-Fattah, The Opener) for help, and do your best. Trust that He will cover all the rest of the ups and downs. 3 Practical Tools to Fight Doubt Journal it out: Write your fears down. You’ll see how illogical they look once they are on paper. Call a "lifting" friend: Find a sister who reminds you of your strengths, not your shortcomings. Curate your input: Listen to uplifting podcasts and follow accounts that remind you of your "Why." You Don't Need Permission You don't need a certificate or a gold star. You and your husband have the God-given right to raise your children in the way you believe is best. Trust the mother you are becoming, because you trust the Wisdom of Allah; the One who chose you specifically for these children. He doesn't make mistakes. ⭐️Our Sponsor: THE FUTURE EXPLORERS CLUB – https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/explorers ⭐️ Use code RAISINGMUMS5 for £5 off your subscription. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/newsletter for weekly encouragement and tips. HOMESCHOOLING COURSES: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/courses to help you simplify your education journey. 🎙️ START A PODCAST with Blubrry: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/startyourpodcast . Get your first month of Blubrry podcasting hosting FREE with the promo code RaisingMums  Intro Music – by PEARLS OF ISLAM: https://www.pearlsofislam.co.uk (Bismillah from the album “Love is My Foundation”) Peace and love,

Homeschooling in your 40s doesn't just feel busy; it feels heavy. Between the brain fog, the fatigue, and the "random" symptoms of perimenopause, the way we homeschool has to change. "I feel like a piece of elastic that has been stretched and stretched and now has no more stretch, and cannot spring back." - Nella Last 1945 If you're feeling overstretched, here is the good news: Homeschooling in your 40s can actually be your best season yet. ⭐️Today’s Sponsor – THE FUTURE EXPLORER’S CLUB: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/explorers ⭐️ The Shift: From Spoon-Feeding to Independence When we are younger, we often "spoon-feed" our kids. We explain everything, dissect every book, and run ourselves ragged. Perimenopause forces us to stop. When your energy is low, you have to step back. This isn't "lazy"—it’s effective. By moving away from over-teaching, you allow your children to: Develop intellectual muscles by grappling with books themselves. Become independent thinkers rather than just "parrots." Build a real relationship with their subjects without us standing in the middle. The Silver Lining of the 40s This decade brings a "Second Spring." You finally gain: Perspective: You know the "crises" of the early years always pass. Freedom: You stop caring what the "perfect" homeschoolers are doing. Clarity: You trade dry academics for life skills and meaningful physical activity. 3 Tips for This Season Prioritize Health: Walking, sleep, and supplements are now non-negotiables. Outsource: Let go of the ego that says you must teach every subject yourself. Choose "Open & Go": Switch to resources that require zero preparation from you. Important Links & Resources ⭐️Our Sponsor: THE FUTURE EXPLOERERS CLUB – https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/explorers ⭐️ Use code RAISINGMUMS5 for £5 off your subscription. (Perfect "Open & Go" Geography!) JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/newsletter for weekly encouragement and tips. HOMESCHOOLING COURSES: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/courses to help you simplify your education journey. 🎙️ START A PODCAST with Blubrry: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/startyourpodcast . Get your first month of Blubrry podcasting hosting FREE with the promo code RaisingMums  Intro Music – by PEARLS OF ISLAM: https://www.pearlsofislam.co.uk (Bismillah from the album “Love is My Foundation”) A Final Thought Be kind to yourself, Sis. Your homeschool might look slower and quieter now, but it is likely becoming deeper and more full of barakah than ever before. Is homeschooling in your 40s looking different than you expected? Share your thoughts in the comments! Peace and love,

Many parents find it difficult to trust the homeschooling process, especially when the mainstream school system is all they have ever known. It is natural to feel nervous, but the numbers don’t lie! Statistics from the National Home Education Research Institute show that homeschooled students consistently score in the 80th percentile. That's a staggering 30 points higher than the public school average! ⭐ Today's Sponsor - THE FUTURE EXPLORER'S CLUB: ⭐ http://bit.ly/4vHYMN9 But home education is about more than just grades. It is about raising well-rounded, moral human beings. If you are struggling with doubt, this episode is for you. The Benefits of Home Education vs. Mainstream School The academic gap is clear, but the social benefits are even more profound. According to the Journal of School Choice, home-educated adults are two to three times more likely to vote and volunteer. By popping the "school bubble," you aren't isolating your kids; you are raising active, engaged citizens. How to trust the Homeschooling Process If you want to trust the homeschooling process, you must change your environment. Being around other home-educators at co-ops or the Madrasah reminds you that you aren't alone. As Marie Curie said, "Now is the time to understand more, so that we may fear less." Educating yourself through books and courses is the best way to replace fear with certainty. Finding Tawakkul: Trusting Allah with Your Child’s Education Ultimately, the crux of this journey is spiritual. We often trust strangers in a school building more than we trust ourselves at home. To find true peace, we must become of the Mutawakkilin—those who rely entirely on Allah. As Imam Al-Ghazali wrote, "Only the reliant can be free." ###What We Cover in This Episode: The Academic Edge: Why homeschoolers outperform the system. The Socialization Myth: Proof that your kids won't be "isolated." Finding Your Tribe: The importance of local and online communities. The Spiritual Shift: Moving from homeschooling stress to deep trust in Allah. Listen to the full episode now to find your certainty. Important Links ⭐ Today's Sponsor - THE FUTURE EXPLORER'S CLUB: http://bit.ly/4vHYMN9 ⭐ Treat your little one to a monthly delivery of joy! Use code RAISINGMUMS5 at checkout to save £5 on any 3, 6, or 12-month subscription. Intro Music – by PEARLS OF ISLAM: https://www.pearlsofislam.co.uk (Bismillah from the album “Love is My Foundation”) Sign Up for Homeschooling Resources and our FREE NEWSLETTER: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com HOMESCHOOLING COURSES: https://launchyourhomeschool.thinkific.com Online SPIRITUALITY Courses: https://daralzahra.co.uk/becoming-women-of-god-1 🎙️ START A PODCAST with Blubrry: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/startyourpodcast Get your first month of Blubrry podcasting hosting FREE with the promo code RaisingMums  📊 Want to see the data? Explore research on Homeschooling and Success in Adulthood.: https://nheri.org/homeschooling-success-in-adulthood-fact-sheet/ Read the full report on Homeschool Academic Achievement: https://nheri.org/homeschool-academic-achievement-fact-sheet/ Peace and Love,

In Episode 97 of the Raising Mums podcast, I take a trip down memory lane to a time before the pressure of curricula and "ticking boxes" took over. Reflecting on a quote by the great scholar Ibn Khaldun, "The past resembles the future more than one drop of water resembles another". I believe this holds the secret to finding joy in homeschooling today. By looking back at our early days, we can find a vital roadmap for our future. After a decade of home educating, I recently rediscovered a simple notebook from when my eldest was just four years old. It was a humble collection of cut-outs from supermarket flyers and handwritten letters. But it represented a time of pure, creative joy; a time when we were learning how to learn. [Listen on Apple Podcasts💜] | [Listen on Spotify💚] | [Listen on YouTube❤️] ### Finding Joy in Homeschooling: In this episode, I share: The Power of Nostalgia: Why looking at your "early days" can help solve your current burnout. Creativity Through Limitation: How the lack of UK-based Muslim resources forced us to be more intentional and creative teachers. The "Ticking Box" Trap: How to recognize when homeschooling has turned into just another chore and how to pivot back to connection. Sustainable Home Ed: Why joy isn't just a "nice to have," but a requirement for making home education a long-term success. Practical Joy-Boosters: Simple, low-prep ideas to bring spark back to your week—from pancake breakfasts by the pond to library hangouts. The Wisdom of Ibn Khaldun: How the patterns of our past can help us navigate the challenges of the present. Important Links ⭐ Today's Sponsor - THE FUTURE EXPLORER'S CLUB: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/explorers ⭐ Treat your little one to a monthly delivery of joy! Use code RAISINGMUMS5 at checkout to save £5 on any 3, 6, or 12-month subscription. Intro Music – by PEARLS OF ISLAM: https://www.pearlsofislam.co.uk (Bismillah from the album “Love is My Foundation”) JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/newsletter for weekly encouragement and tips. HOMESCHOOLING COURSES: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/courses 🎙️ START A PODCAST with Blubrry: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/startyourpodcast . Get your first month of Blubrry podcasting hosting FREE with the promo code RaisingMums  Peace and Love,

In Episode 96 of the Raising Mums podcast, I interview Rukayat Yakub, a Montessori teacher and award-winning author. Rukayat has travelled the world studying Arabic and traditional Islamic sciences. In addition to pursuing a doctorate in Islamic leadership, Rukayat coaches leaders and mothers on navigating anti-Blackness - the inability to see and value Black humanity in their communities and homes. In this episode Sister Rukayat shares: Practical advice on navigating anti-Blackness in our communities  How the teachings in Islam help us address social issues Racism in books and boycotting authors Conversations about antiblackness with our children How to bring Black Islamic History into your homeschool curriculum The Prophetic model of compassion, justice, and belonging How the Prophet ﷺ dealt with racism and antiblackness  Important Links BOOKS and Children's Classes by Rukayat Yakub: https://www.lightlegacybooks.com Rukayat's LEADERSHIP COACHING Programmes: https://rukayatyakub.com JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/newsletter for weekly encouragement and tips. HOMESCHOOLING COURSES: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/courses to help you simplify your education journey. Intro Music – by PEARLS OF ISLAM: https://www.pearlsofislam.co.uk (Bismillah from the album “Love is My Foundation”) 🎙️ START A PODCAST with Blubrry: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/startyourpodcast . Get your first month of Blubrry podcasting hosting FREE with the promo code RaisingMums

In Episode 95 of the Raising Mums podcast I interview the multi-award winning poet, Mona Zac. She shares advice on how we can use poetry to encourage our children to reflect on the 99 names of Allah. In this practical and inspiring episode, sister Mona tells us why pondering on creation helps our children to connect with Allah. Sister Mona describes herself as a dreamer, writer, and poet with a headful of ideas. She regularly thinks up and manages projects that her friend (and illustrator) Neamah Aslam beautifully executes. Mona can usually be found doing research for her projects with 100 tabs open, studying for her unending classes, or beating her children at card games. In this episode Sister Mona shares: How she became a writer and got into the publishing industry The power of rhymes and poetry How learning and discussing His 99 Names helps children to know and love their Lord Why learning in a group or community is valuable The relationship between love and learning How to help your children see the signs of Allah all around them Important Links Books by Mona Zac: Connecting with Allah - a collection of poetryFill Me Up - a gratitude journal Visit Mona's Website: https://www.zacandaslam.com Connect with Sister Mona on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zacandaslam JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/newsletter for weekly encouragement and tips. HOMESCHOOLING COURSES: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/courses to help you simplify your education journey. Intro Music – by PEARLS OF ISLAM: https://www.pearlsofislam.co.uk (Bismillah from the album “Love is My Foundation”) 🎙️ START A PODCAST with Blubrry: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/startyourpodcast . Get your first month of Blubrry podcasting hosting FREE with the promo code RaisingMums

In Episode 94 of the Raising Mums podcast, I interview Ustadha Dr Bano Murtuja about how we can help our children connect to the Prophet ﷺ. Dr Bano Murtuja is a teacher of sacred sciences with a passion for the Seerah of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. In this episode, Ustadha shares with us: Her experience in building a connection with the Prophet ﷺ and how it has and continues to, transform her life. How we can bring the Prophet ﷺ into a child's education. How a mother can still teach her child the Seerah even if she feels that she doesn't know enough? An important way to protect the faith of our children. How to encourage our children to connect and love the Prophet ﷺ Quotable Moments "This job, that was incredible but never quite fulfilled me, all of those empty spaces he ﷺ filled. The moral compass that I was always...Is this the right thing? Where do I need to go? How do I need to do this? ...He ﷺ was the direction I always needed. But more than all of that, in all of my religious practice, when I got to know the Prophet ﷺ everything became, not just easy, but beloved." - Ustadha Bano Murtuja "Let me show you who the best person was and let's aspire to develop that because that is who the best person was and is, and that is how we're going to be better. That, in and of itself, is an incredibly powerful dynamic." - Ustadha Bano Murtuja Important Links COURSES with Dr Bano: https://www.banomurtuja.com Dr Bano's SEERAH PODCAST: https://storiesfromtheseerah.supercast.com Connect with Dr Bano on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StoriesfromtheSeerah and on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storiesfromtheseerah/ JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/newsletter for weekly encouragement and tips. HOMESCHOOLING COURSES: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/courses to help you simplify your education journey. Intro Music – by PEARLS OF ISLAM: https://www.pearlsofislam.co.uk (Bismillah from the album “Love is My Foundation”) 🎙️ START A PODCAST with Blubrry: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/startyourpodcast . Get your first month of Blubrry podcasting hosting FREE with the promo code RaisingMums

Homeschooling socialisation is one of the most common comments or questions parents receive. Almost every argument involving homeschooling revolves around this: "Homeschooled children don't get enough socialisation.".  Nobody ever worries about whether our children will get a good education at home, but we hear a lot about children needing school for socialisation. It is a well-known fact that homeschoolers have been subjected to the socialisation argument for quite some time, but what is the reality in relation to homeschooling socialisation? In Episode 93 of the Raising Mums podcast, I discuss homeschooling socialisation. Homeschooling and Socialisation References: The Prophet ﷺ was reported to have said, "I have been sent to perfect good character." [al-Muwaṭṭa’ 1614, Sahih]The Prophet ﷺ was reported to have said, “A man follows the religion of his friend; so each one should consider whom he makes his friend” [Abu Dawud]"He who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion of fools suffers harm." [Proverbs, 13:20] Study by Shyers, Hedin, Montgomery et al. showed a significant advantage seen in homeschooled kids, with regards to their social development.Thomas Smedley (1992), in a controlled study, found that "...home educated in this sample were significantly better socialized and more mature than those in public school." Related: Start Your Homeschool Strong BOOTCAMP! Here: https://launchyourhomeschool.thinkific.com/courses/start-your-homeschool-strong Related: Dealing with Naysayers | Home Education Here:https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/2021/07/how-to-homeschool-successfully-ten-tips-from-the-heart.html Related: Can I Homeschool if I’m NOT a Teacher? Here:https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/2021/07/can-i-homeschool-if-im-not-a-teacher.html Enough to Homeschool Enough to Homeschool is a 5-day virtual workshop with Dr. Gemma, for the mother who is ready to feel like a homeschooler. Unlock your confidence and step into your role as a home educator! The Enough to Homeschool 5-day workshop will take place 10-14th October 2022. JOIN ENOUGH TO HOMESCHOOL:- http://enoughtohomeschool.com

When homeschooling you have the best intentions, but sometimes you wonder if you’re going to make it. Does your homeschool have a chance of success? How are you going to make it work, or even if you will fail? You know how homeschooling benefits your kids and provides them with an excellent education. You’ve found advice on choosing curriculum, learning styles, methods of homeschooling, and setting up a schedule. But have you ever been told what personal qualities YOU NEED to succeed? In Episode 92 of the Raising Mums podcast, I share how to successfully homeschool. Homeschooling Resources Related: Start Your Homeschool Strong BOOTCAMP! https://launchyourhomeschool.thinkific.com/courses/start-your-homeschool-strong Related: How to Homeschool Successfully | Ten Tips from the Heart : https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/2021/07/how-to-homeschool-successfully-ten-tips-from-the-heart.html Related: Should I Start Homeschooling | Am I failing my kids? https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/2021/07/should-i-start-homeschooling-am-i-failing-my-kids.html Enough to Homeschool Enough to Homeschool is a 5-day virtual workshop with Dr. Gemma, for the mother who is ready to feel like a homeschooler. Homeschooling success depends on the mother's emotional regulation. The curriculum she picks, her daily routine, and her knowledge of education are helpful. But, if she cannot see through the fog of her emotions, she will not be able to see the truth of what her children need, how to best educate them, and will struggle to enjoy the privilege that is home education. Unlock your confidence and step into your role as a home educator! The Enough to Homeschool 5-day workshop will take place 10-14th October 2022. JOIN ENOUGH TO HOMESCHOOL:- http://enoughtohomeschool.com

We are experiencing a terrible economic downturn, which can affect the homeschool budget. Homeschooling can cost as much or as little as you want it to. When you’re first starting out, you may spend a bit more on supplies than you will in subsequent years. The cost of homeschooling is different for every family, it can add up quickly especially if you have multiple children, but it is possible to homeschool during the recession. With homeschool budgeting, careful planning, and a positive attitude, you can give your child a quality education without breaking the bank.   In Episode 91 of the Raising Mums podcast, I share how you can homeschool on a budget especially when times are difficult. WATCH THE VIDEO HERE: 👉 https://youtu.be/R40fKBgmEJY https://youtu.be/R40fKBgmEJY Related: How much does Homeschooling Cost?Here:https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/2020/11/how-much-does-homeschooling-cost.html Related: Be a Homeschool Planner! |The Benefits of Planning Annually Here:https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/2019/03/homeschool-planner-benefits.html Enough to Homeschool Enough to Homeschool is a 5-day Virtual Mini-course with Dr. Gemma, for the mother who is ready to feel like a homeschooler. Unlock your confidence and step into your role as a home educator! The Enough to Homeschool 5-day Mini-Course will take place 10-14th October 2022. JOIN ENOUGH TO HOMESCHOOL:- Http://EnoughToHomeschool.com