Navigating November with Heart
November often arrives like a deep breath.
After the joyful chaos of back-to-school and the full sprint of September and October, this month gently invites us to pause. With fall break on the horizon, now is the perfect time to lean into rhythms that foster reflection, peace, and perspective.
This month, let’s center ourselves around three words that hold significant power in homeschooling (and parenting): Gratitude, Growth, and Grace.
Gratitude
In the rush to check off lessons and plans, it’s easy to miss the magic right in front of us. But when we pause to notice, there’s so much to be thankful for. Try asking at dinner or bedtime, “What’s one thing you learned today that you’re grateful for?” The answers can be surprising and a sweet reminder of how much they’re soaking in, even when we’re not looking.
Gratitude doesn’t need to be fancy or formal. A quick note in a journal, a sticky on the fridge, or a text shared with family can shift the tone of the whole day.
Growth
By this point in the year, we’ve already come so far. Maybe your kindergartener can write their name now, or your seventh grader found a book series they are really excited about (a true milestone for some). Perhaps your child made a new friend at park day or found the courage to try something new. Little moments and small wins are authentic markers of growth.
One of the best parts of homeschooling is being able to witness learning unfold at its own pace. We get to slow down when concepts don’t click and speed up when curiosity sparks. Growth is often a whisper, rather than a shout, and we can tune our senses to hear the subtleties and booms of learning.
Grace
Homeschooling takes courage and heart. Most days are filled with joy and discovery, while others are challenging. When you hit a rough patch, for an hour or a day, remember to give yourself grace. It’s okay if the lesson plan shifts or the dishes wait. Children learn all the time through conversations, play, and by experiencing the world around them. Perhaps even more importantly, treating yourself with kindness and grace helps your kids develop flexibility, resilience, and self-confidence.
And truly, there’s time. Homeschooling gives us the gift of space to rest, to wonder, and to enjoy what makes our families thrive.
Seasonal Picks for a Meaningful November
Here are a few ideas to inspire reflection, gratitude, and seasonal connection this month.
Books to Spark Gratitude
- Thank You, Earth by April Pulley Sayre (stunning photo-illustrated poetry)
- The Thankful Book by Todd Parr (perfect for younger kids)
- The Gratitude Diaries by Janice Kaplan (for teens and parents)
- Picture book list for November from Intentional Homeschooling Blog
- November Booklist for all ages from The Waldock Way Homeschool Blog
Activities to Encourage Thankfulness
- Create a “Thankful Tree” with leaf cut-outs and daily gratitudes.
- Start a “One Good Thing” family journal.
- Write thank-you notes to friends, teachers, Library Specialists, or Community Coordinators.
Learning Opportunities
- Explore unit studies on Native American cultures, early American history, or fall science themes (like leaves, migration, and hibernation)
- Host a Friendsgiving or gratitude circle with other homeschool families.
- Use upcoming holidays as writing prompts, math challenges, or research projects to engage students and foster their learning.
With Gratitude,
Kara Parkins
Parent Support Advisor | The Cottonwood School