As a homeschooling mum of three very energetic boys, my days are filled with the kind of energy that could power a small town! If you’re thinking about homeschooling your boys, or if you’re already in the experience of it, let me tell you—it’s a wild, wonderful ride. Boys have a unique way of turning even the most mundane tasks into grand adventures. Whether it’s transforming the living room into a battlefield or discovering the science of “how high can we launch this toy?”—there’s never a dull moment. And while it can be exhausting, it’s also incredibly rewarding.
One of the first things I learned about homeschooling boys is the importance of movement. They are not designed to sit still for long periods, and that’s perfectly okay. We embrace a lot of breaks, outdoor play, and hands-on learning e.g. maths becomes more engaging when you use Legos or Magna Tiles to solve them and spelling words are more fun when you can jump on a trampoline while reciting them, or use spelling games. The garden and nearby parks often serves as our classroom, where nature walks turn into impromptu science lessons. And let’s not forget the endless supply of sticks that magically transform into swords, wands, or digging tools for their “archaeological” digs and builds.
Another key element is embracing their interests. My boys are fascinated by everything from dinosaurs to superheroes, so I weave these themes into our lessons. Stories come alive when we read about warriors and kings and characters they love. By tapping into what excites them, I find they’re more engaged and eager to learn. And let’s be honest, when they’re excited, it makes my job much easier—and a lot more fun!
Of course, there are challenging days, like when our science experiment explodes all over the kitchen (note to self: always double-check the measurements), or I am contending with bad attitudes and tantrums. But even in those moments, there are valuable lessons to be learned—like the importance of perseverance, patience, and sometimes, the necessity of a good sense of humour. After all, laughter can turn a disaster into a memorable teaching moment. Homeschooling boys is a journey of discovery, for both them and us as parents. It’s about finding the balance between structure and spontaneity, discipline and freedom. And in the midst of the noise and chaos, it’s about cherishing the opportunity to shape and nurture their curious minds and adventurous spirits.
Another essential part of homeschooling boys is fostering their sense of independence and responsibility. Boys often thrive when given the chance to take the lead and solve problems on their own. I’ve found that incorporating practical life skills into our daily routine not only keeps them engaged but also helps them feel capable and accomplished. Whether it’s cooking a simple meal, managing their own chore charts, or building something with their hands, these activities teach them invaluable lessons about self-reliance and accountability. Plus, it’s amazing to see the pride in their eyes when they successfully complete a task or project!
Lastly, let’s talk about the importance of cultivating a sense of faith and character. As a Christian homeschooling mum, I see each day as an opportunity to instill values like kindness, integrity, and compassion. Our Bible devotion time isn’t just another subject on the schedule; it’s a cornerstone of our day. Through stories, prayers, and discussions, we are intentionally seeking to shape and guide our boys in understanding and living out their faith.
We talk about real-life applications, like showing kindness to a sibling or being honest even when it’s hard. These moments are the heart of our homeschooling journey, helping shape them not just into knowledgeable individuals, but also men of strong character and faith. So, as we navigate the ups and downs of homeschooling, I’m constantly reminded that this journey is about much more than academics—it’s about raising my boys to be thoughtful, faithful, and compassionate individuals ready to make a positive impact on the world.
Amidst all the (chaotic) lessons and life skills, I am really trying to not forget the importance of simply having fun together. Building forts out of blankets, going on impromptu scavenger hunts, and having dance battles in the living room are just as crucial as any maths or reading lesson. These joyful, spontaneous moments create bonds and memories that will last a lifetime. They remind us why we chose this path in the first place—to enjoy the freedom to learn and grow together as a family. Homeschooling is as much about nurturing our relationships and creating a loving, supportive environment as it is about education.
So, here’s to all the homeschooling mums of boys out there—may your coffee be strong, your patience be long, and your days filled with love and laughter.
Thank you for joining me on this journey of motherhood and faith. If you found comfort and encouragement in this post, I invite you to explore more of my writings on similar topics.
On my blog, you’ll discover a wealth of stories, tips, and reflections aimed at nurturing your spirit and supporting you through the beautiful chaos of motherhood.
From practical advice on balancing daily responsibilities to heartfelt reflections on deepening your relationship with God, there’s something for every season of motherhood. I’ve shared real-life experiences, lessons learned, and moments of grace that I hope will resonate with you and provide the encouragement you need.
Visit my blog for more posts on creating a peaceful home, finding joy in the little moments, and leaning into God’s strength amidst the challenges. Let’s continue this journey together, growing in faith and love, one step at a time.
As mothers, our days are mostly filled with a whirlwind of activities—preparing meals, caring for children, maintaining a home, possibly juggling a job, and managing countless other tasks. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and wonder how we’ll ever get everything done! Time management can feel like an impossible task, especially when our time is no longer just our own. But take heart sis, for we are not alone in this struggle. God sees our efforts and knows the desires of our hearts. He offers us grace, not perfection, and in that grace, we can find ways to manage our time better, to honour Him, and to bring peace to our homes.
Here are four practical tips that can help you thrive more when it comes to this area of your life.
1. Prioritise your day with God at the center
It’s easy to get caught up in the busyness of life and forget to take time for God, but making Him the foundation of our days brings a profound sense of peace and purpose. Start your day with prayer or a short devotion, asking God for guidance in managing your time. Psalm 90:12 says, “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” By seeking God’s wisdom first, we align our priorities with His will, which can help us focus on what truly matters each day.
Imagine your day begins with the children waking up early and immediately needing your attention. Instead of jumping straight into the chaos, take five minutes to pray or read a Bible verse while they’re still in their rooms. Even a short moment of quiet time with God can change your perspective and give you the patience and wisdom to navigate the day.
2. Set realistic expectations
As mothers, we often set high expectations for ourselves, thinking we need to do it all. However, Proverbs 31, the famous chapter about the virtuous woman, reminds us that she didn’t do everything at once. She focused on what was necessary in each season of her life. Setting realistic goals for your day helps prevent burnout and allows you to appreciate your accomplishments, no matter how small they may seem.
You might have a to-do list that includes cleaning the entire house, preparing three homemade meals, and organising a playdate. This instantly creates so much overwhelm as you have to juggle these tasks as well as taking care of your children. Instead, consider focusing on one or two key tasks and letting go of the others. Maybe today, it’s just tidying up the kitchen and spending quality time with your kids. Celebrate what you’ve done rather than what you didn’t get to. It all equals success!
3. Delegate and accept help
God created us to live in community, not in isolation. Galatians 6:2 encourages us to “carry each other’s burdens,” which means it’s okay—and often necessary—to ask for help. Whether it’s involving your children in household chores, asking your spouse to take on certain tasks, or accepting help from friends or family, delegation can lighten your load and create a sense of shared responsibility within your family.
Perhaps you’re struggling to find time to cook dinner while also helping your children with their homework. Instead of trying to do both simultaneously, consider asking your spouse to handle homework time, or involve the kids in meal preparation. It might not be perfect, but it teaches them responsibility and gives you more breathing room.
4. Embrace flexibility and grace
Life with children is unpredictable, and even the best-laid plans can go awry. It’s essential to embrace flexibility and extend grace to yourself when things don’t go as planned. James 4:13-15 reminds us that we don’t know what tomorrow holds, but we can trust God with our plans. Allow yourself the freedom to adapt when necessary, and let go of the need for everything to be perfect.
You might plan a productive day, only to have your child come down with a cold, throwing all your plans out the window. Instead of feeling defeated, acknowledge that caring for your child is the priority for that day. You can reschedule other tasks, knowing that God sees your heart and honours your willingness to serve your family.
Conclusion
Motherhood is a beautiful yet challenging journey, and time management is a skill that many of us are continually developing. It takes time to find and fine tune a rhythm that works for you and your family. Remember, God’s grace is sufficient for you in every season. You are doing an incredible job, and He is with you every step of the way.
May you find peace, joy, and purpose as you navigate your days, knowing that you are held in His loving hands, and you can indeed thrive here!
One of the beautiful things about homemaking is that as women and mothers we have the gift and the ability to create a beautiful environment in which everybody that lives in it feels loved, treated as though they belong and nurtured so they thrive.
It requires our undivided intentional attention. Our heart, our soul, our efforts, our time, our style, our sacrifice, our willingness, our openness, our strength, our lives. The beauty found in homemaking is really in our ability to personalise and tailor a wholesome life for the people closest to us, to keep loving the one that we have chosen to commit to for the rest of our lives, and to serve the people who have grown and come from our very own bodies.
It is hard, beautiful sacrificial work. It is a worthwhile work that reveals a lot within us so that we can grow and develop in character. The home stands as a testament to the beauty and life of diligent hands and a faithful heart. Within the walls of our homes, joy and sorrow are shared, burdens are lightened, and the spirit finds solace.
The dining table has the potential to become an altar of fellowship, where laughter echoes, tears are gently wiped away, and the bonds of family and friendship are strengthened over shared meals and meaningful conversations. It is in this sacred space that love is nurtured and memories are sown. It is akin to a garden of life where seeds are sown into the hearts of children. Such is the sacred art of homemaking, a divine vocation, where earthly tasks become heavenly acts, and a humble abode is transformed into a haven of holy love.
If we look closely enough, we’ll see God’s goodness in what He has given to us. Our portion is evident of His faithfulness.
Homemaking is a tender art, a symphony of daily rituals that breathe life and love into a home. From the sweep of a broom to the arranging of fresh flowers, each task is a stroke of comfort and care if we see it that way. The homemaker’s touch can bring warmth to every corner, infusing the air with a fragrance that only a woman can bring to her environment when she loves it. It’s in these small, thoughtful gestures that a house becomes a haven, a place where the soul finds rest and the heart feels cherished.
In the morning when we wake up we get to decide on the tone that will be set for our homes. It can be filled with so much purpose, even in the midst of difficulty and challenge. The clinking of dishes, the rustling of pages as lists are made and tasks are planned, all contribute to a rhythm that reflects the reality of a household filled with life.
As a homemaker, you get the chance to dress each room, giving it a story, curated with love and attention to detail and reflecting the unique personality and values of those who live there. As a mama to little children, the season is extremely busy and exhausting. My days begin very early, and end late. The talking never ends, and the training is nonstop It isn’t easy. It requires much work and intentionality. It requires our life, and it is worth every seed sown.
Thank you for joining me on this journey of motherhood and faith. If you found comfort and encouragement in this post, I invite you to explore more of my writings on similar topics.
On my blog, you’ll discover a wealth of stories, tips, and reflections aimed at nurturing your spirit and supporting you through the beautiful chaos of motherhood.
From practical advice on balancing daily responsibilities to heartfelt reflections on deepening your relationship with God, there’s something for every season of motherhood. I’ve shared real-life experiences, lessons learned, and moments of grace that I hope will resonate with you and provide the encouragement you need.
Visit my blog for more posts on creating a peaceful home, finding joy in the little moments, and leaning into God’s strength amidst the challenges. Let’s continue this journey together, growing in faith and love, one step at a time.
Musings of a 30 something year old Christian mother with 3 boys.
One of the most suffocating and overwhelming feelings, is the one of feeling completely lost and unsure about the journey of entering and experiencing motherhood. In this post I’ll be sharing some personal thoughts, heart and experience.
A high achiever
I’ve always been a high achiever and producer, fully buying into the culture’s message that I can be anything and do anything. While that may be true in a wider context, it isn’t so much when you bring it down to a more micro level. I chased hard after the title of 1st place on the podium and achieved it multiple times. I had my dreams of what success would look and feel like and pursued it with all the time that I had as a single woman.
While I built up that area of my life however, I didn’t give enough time, thought, planning and nurture to the other part of my life that I desired which was marriage and motherhood. Sure, it was there as part of my overall plan, however it didn’t occur to me to devote much preparation of my heart, finances and life plans to it straight away. I naively thought that I’d have children and neatly fold them into the plans that I had going on and keep it moving.
Society’s message to us
Modern society fails to encourage and prepare women for the realities of motherhood, and this further intensifies what will already be a new and challenging role to exist in. We live in a world that frequently emphasises career achievements and personal independence and the sacrificial and demanding nature of motherhood is often times undervalued and overlooked. In addition to that, I think that because we live in a culture the heavily pushes one message, it naturally filters through into our homes, and the expectation is that when you finish school, you’ll go and get a job and start earning.
While there is nothing wrong with this, I do believe that it is important for women to talk about and begin to plan how they’ll weave in work with family life when the time comes. Never in my mind or heart did I perceive that it would be an all consuming, life changing event that would completely shift the course that I was on and challenge my character, faith, values and heart. I had an aggressive edge to me that I can now admit was a lower view of marriage and motherhood. Not that it wasn’t important, but it just wasn’t the priority. My value, identity and reward was found in the applause that I received from the marketplace; the plaques, certificates and trophies from strangers.
Yet there was a tug toward motherhood which I believe God gives us. What grace. It’s a natural wiring for (the majority) of women to desire to have children but because I had devoted so much of my time and energy in the other direction, I felt completely alien to this new world of motherhood. I remember the joy of finding out that I was expectant with my first born son, and also the complete terror that plagued me at the thought of entering into the complete unknown. A place where I for once would not have full control. My anxiety went into overdrive.
What is our value tied to?
Our value is tied up in the external things that we achieve, and the inward validation is like the strongest dopamine hit running through our veins. It feels unthinkable to lay that aside to enter into a completely new experience and embrace all that comes with it in motherhood (which is mostly unseen, and “in the trenches” work). For me, I struggled with the genuine disappointment of having wasted time and money getting a degree that I didn’t fully get to use because I was now a mother. I wanted a “big” life, which when I think about it now, was one driven heavily by consumerism and the ability to spend on whatever I wanted.
I thought about the sacrifice of motherhood, but I didn’t reflect on the depth of love that it would require of me, and how that love would call me up, and challenge me to redefine my measures of success and fulfillment. It has honestly been a tug of war in this area, and yet as I exert my energy to pull on my part, I am also becoming undone in my heart. I am being refined.
Motherhood, while a divine calling and a tremendous blessing, can often leave us feeling lost and overwhelmed. From a Christian perspective, this sense of being lost can stem from the immense pressure to fulfill the roles of caregiver, nurturer, and spiritual guide all at once. The Bible calls mothers to “train up a child in the way he should go” (Proverbs 22:6), which can sometimes feel like a daunting and never-ending task.
In the pursuit of meeting every physical, emotional, and spiritual need of our children, we can find themselves grappling with feelings of inadequacy and exhaustion. The constant demands makes it hard to find time for personal reflection and spiritual renewal, leading to a sense of disconnection from our own identities and from God.
A hope
Feeling lost in motherhood is very common, and if you clicked on this post, I want you to know that you aren’t alone. It is a journey that we are on, and if we truly let it, it’ll refine us into the best version of ourselves. That was the driving factor for me creating Graced For Home and sharing a little more about how I left the corporate world to be a stay at home mum in this season of my life. It’s also the reason I created the Homemakers Framework to encourage all mothers to begin to think about the home, own their presence their and see the beauty that can be found in building a life from there.
Take heart and find solace in the profound truth that you are not alone, and your efforts are deeply valued. In the midst of exhaustion and doubt, remember that God’s grace is always sufficient. As 2 Corinthians 12:9 reassures us, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Your imperfections and struggles do not diminish your worth or your ability to be a wonderful mother; rather, they highlight your reliance on God’s strength and wisdom.
Embrace the supportive community around you, both within your faith and beyond. Lean on fellow mothers, friends, and family for encouragement, practical help, and shared experiences. Remember that God has uniquely equipped you for this role and that your love and dedication are shaping your children’s lives in ways you may not always see. In the moments of quiet reflection, seek God’s guidance and find peace in His presence. You are fulfilling a sacred calling, and with each step, you are making a significant impact. Your love, patience, and perseverance are reflections of God’s love for your children, and in Him, you can find the strength to continue this beautiful journey.
Here are some posts to help on the practical side of things:
As a homeschooling Christian mother blessed with three sons, I have found myself reflecting deeply on the values I wish to instill in my children. In today’s rapidly changing world, where traditional gender roles are being redefined, I believe there is immense importance in teaching my boys the skills needed to work within the home as well as outside. While societal norms may have shifted, the timeless principles of responsibility, service, and stewardship remain invaluable, especially within the context of a Christian household.
From an early age, I have sought to cultivate a nurturing environment where my sons not only understand the importance of contributing to the household but also embrace it as a privilege and a responsibility. Contrary to outdated stereotypes, teaching boys to work in the home is not about limiting their potential or confining them to traditional gender roles. Instead, it is about empowering them with essential life skills that will serve them well in all aspects of their lives as they grow older.
Servanthood
Our desire, first and foremost is that our boys know the Lord and walk in His ways Lord willing. I hope and pray that they will take on the role as spiritual leaders of their homes, willing to take on difficult tasks and to face problems with heart until they come to a solution. This takes on the form of servanthood. As Christians, we are called to emulate the example set by Jesus Christ, who demonstrated humility and service through his actions. By involving my boys in household chores such as cooking, cleaning, and laundry, I am not only teaching them practical skills but also instilling in them a spirit of humility and selflessness. These seemingly mundane tasks become opportunities for them to practice love in action and to serve others with joy.
I have to remind myself that this is the training ground. So even if an activity takes much longer, or I receive resistance because they would much rather do something else, I have to gently persevere, encourage and normalise hard work because it is good work!
Accountability
Teaching my boys to work in the home creates a sense of responsibility and accountability. In a world that often prioritises individualism and self-gratification, it is a desire for me to instill a strong work ethic and a sense of duty towards their family and community. By assigning age-appropriate tasks and holding them accountable for their contributions, I am equipping my sons with the tools they need to become responsible and dependable men.
Moreover, teaching my boys to work in our home promotes a culture of teamwork and cooperation within the family. As siblings, my sons learn to collaborate and support each other in completing household chores, creating a sense of unity. These shared experiences not only strengthen their bond as brothers but also prepare them to navigate the complexities of relationships outside the home. They often hold each other accountable when the one is not pulling their weight!
Stewardship
In addition to the practical benefits, training my boys to work in the home also aligns with biblical principles of stewardship. As stewards of God’s creation, we are called to responsibly manage the resources entrusted to us, including our time, talents, and material possessions. By teaching my sons to care for their home and belongings, I am reminding them of stewardship and appreciation for the blessings they have been given.
Here are some fun creative ways for you to encourage responsibility for your children!
Chore Chart: A weekly chart where children can track their daily chores and mark them off when completed.
Responsibility Checklist: A checklist of daily responsibilities tailored to different age groups.
Behaviour Tracker: A printable to help track positive behaviors and areas that need improvement.
Allowance Tracker: A tool for tracking chores completed and allowance earned, helping children understand the value of money.
Goal Setting Worksheet: A sheet where children can set short-term and long-term goals and track their progress.
Time Management Planner: A daily or weekly planner designed for children to organise their tasks and activities.
Reading Log: A log for tracking books read, along with space for notes or reflections on each book.
Family Rules Agreement: A printable contract where the family can agree on certain rules and responsibilities.
Responsibility Badge System: Printable badges or certificates that children can earn when they demonstrate responsibility.
Problem-Solving Worksheet: A worksheet that guides children through the steps of identifying problems, considering solutions, and taking action.
These printables can be designed to be visually appealing and easy to use!
Thank you for joining me on this journey of motherhood and faith. If you found comfort and encouragement in this post, I invite you to explore more of my writings on similar topics.
On my blog, you’ll discover a wealth of stories, tips, and reflections aimed at nurturing your spirit and supporting you through the beautiful chaos of motherhood.
From practical advice on balancing daily responsibilities to heartfelt reflections on deepening your relationship with God, there’s something for every season of motherhood. I’ve shared real-life experiences, lessons learned, and moments of grace that I hope will resonate with you and provide the encouragement you need.
Visit my blog for more posts on creating a peaceful home, finding joy in the little moments, and leaning into God’s strength amidst the challenges. Let’s continue this journey together, growing in faith and love, one step at a time.
It’s a beautiful, sacred journey, but it can also be incredibly overwhelming. There are days when it feels like the to-do list is never-ending, and the demands on our time and energy feel impossible to meet. But take heart mama, for you are not alone. Wherever you are reading this today I hope you can use this moment to exhale and just BREATHE. Grab a cup of tea, as I share some ways to navigate the overwhelm, drawn from my own experiences and our faith in God’s unending grace.
One morning, I woke up to the sound of my toddler’s cries, and my other two boys fighting over a toy that they had snuck into their room the night before. My heart sank as I tried to ignore the sounds, hoping my husband would take one for the parent team. He was fast asleep! I stumbled out of bed, already feeling defeated before the day had really begun. Have you ever had a day start like that? In moments like these, it’s easy to feel crushed by the weight of our responsibilities. But I’ve learned that when we start our day with a quick prayer, asking God for strength and guidance, it can transform our outlook. Even a simple, “Lord, help me today,” whispered in the chaos, can bring a sense of calm and remind us that we’re not carrying this load alone.
The power of routine
Another way to tackle overwhelm is by embracing the power of a routine. My mornings used to be a whirlwind of forgotten tasks and last-minute scrambles as everyone bounced around me. But once I started setting aside a little time in the evening to prepare for the next day, things began to shift. A quick 30 minutes to lay out clothes, prepare lunches, and even spending a few quiet moments with God’s Word before bed can make a world of difference for the next day.
Proverbs 31:27 speaks of the woman who “watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.” Creating a routine doesn’t mean we have to be perfect; it’s about finding a rhythm that brings peace to our days. Even waking up a few moments before the children will help you to gather your thoughts before everyone else wakes up. My morning routine typically begins with a workout, writing or reading, all before the boys wake up, and it really helps me to feel like I am doing something for myself- filling up my own cup before I focus on pouring into others.
Perfection doesn’t exist
When we first become mothers, perfection is the thing that can completely consume us. There was a season when I felt like I had to do everything perfectly – be the perfect mum, the perfect wife, the perfect homemaker. But one day, as I sat exhausted and so close to tears, a dear friend reminded me that it’s okay to ask for help. Galatians 6:2 encourages us to “carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” Don’t be afraid to reach out to your spouse, family, or friends when you need a hand. Whether it’s asking your husband to watch the kids so you can have a moment to yourself or arranging a playdate swap with a fellow mum, sharing the load can lighten your heart immensely, and ease the overwhelm that we often feel
I also want to encourage you to carve out time for self-care, without guilt. Jesus often withdrew to lonely places to pray (Luke 5:16), showing us the importance of rest and renewal. For me, this looks like a quiet walk in the evening or morning, a few minutes of journaling or reading, or even just sitting in the car for a few extra moments after grocery shopping. Find what replenishes your soul and make it a regular part of your routine. Remember, taking care of yourself isn’t selfish; it’s necessary for you to pour out love and care for your family.
Creating a “thrive list” has been a game-changer for me in navigating the demands and sacrifice in motherhood. This list includes all the things that bring me joy and fulfillment such as reading a good book, taking a walk in nature, enjoying a hot cup of tea, or spending quiet time in prayer. By intentionally setting aside time to engage in this, I ensure that I don’t lose myself in the daily responsibilities of motherhood. It’s a reminder that nurturing my own well-being is essential, not only for me but also for my ability to be the best mother I can be to my boys. Making space for what I love helps me to thrive, maintaining a sense of balance and joy in the beautiful chaos of raising children.
You can download yours for FREE here and put it in a place where you’ll see it and be encouraged to pour into yourself.
Lastly, Remember the power of community. Surround yourself with other mothers who understand the ups and downs of this journey. Join a local mums’ group, attend church events, or even connect online through social media. Sharing your struggles and victories with others can be incredibly uplifting. We are meant to support one another, just as it says in Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.”
In all these things, hold onto the truth that God’s grace is sufficient for us (2 Corinthians 12:9). We don’t have to be perfect; we just have to be present and willing to trust Him with our daily struggles. Motherhood is a marathon, not a sprint, and by leaning on God and each other, we can find the strength to keep going, even on the hardest days.
You’ve got this mama.
Thank you for joining me on this journey of motherhood and faith. If you found comfort and encouragement in this post, I invite you to explore more of my writings on similar topics.
On my blog, you’ll discover a wealth of stories, tips, and reflections aimed at nurturing your spirit and supporting you through the beautiful chaos of motherhood.
From practical advice on balancing daily responsibilities to heartfelt reflections on deepening your relationship with God, there’s something for every season of motherhood. I’ve shared real-life experiences, lessons learned, and moments of grace that I hope will resonate with you and provide the encouragement you need.
Visit my blog for more posts on creating a peaceful home, finding joy in the little moments, and leaning into God’s strength amidst the challenges. Let’s continue this journey together, growing in faith and love, one step at a time.
It’s so easy to be hyper focused on our children’s academic success that we miss nurturing the person within that God has created them to be. One morning as we made our way to the library I watched my two boys scooting in front of me and I thought WOW. Look at them. Have you ever had that moment too mama?
When you just stop in your tracks and look at your children and become overwhelmed at the gift of who they are. You look at their faces, watch them play or focused on an activity and suddenly you are seeing them in 5-10 years time and wonder what they will look like and how they’ll be? It’s an overwhelmingly beautiful moment! A true wonder.
Most days though, my mind forgets this as I am hyper focused on helping them to master their penmanship skills, phonics and maths (I talk more about identifying their learning styles in another post). In those moments, character isn’t so much at the forefront of my mind as them getting their work correct is.
Yet imagine if we focused on nurturing their character first, knowing that if we master that, we’ll also nail their relationship with learning and ultimately academic success.
I know, I know; the thought of not having the pursuit of academics at the forefront of their learning experience is enough to send a chill down our backs. I for sure know that it feels scary not focusing on academics first because a huge part of me feels insecure about them not mastering the academic side of learning from an early age! Academics also came very naturally to me, so it has always been my default when I think about their learning experience.
However my boys have taught me that for them at this stage and age, academics first would actually crush their spirits and dampen the relationship that I am working on building with them. I see that one of my sons comes alive when learning is made very practical for him and it doesn’t feel like “learning”. He is very much a kinesthetic learner and he started to open my eyes to the possibility of adapting my approach and view of what learning looks like.
Character First
Nevertheless, character first seems to be signaling so brightly to me. When we build on the character first, the academic success is not only enhanced, but their view and approach to life is enhanced too.
There are some moments when I have been really frustrated when trying to encourage my first born son to learn a particular concept. I am hitting a brick wall while he is having a meltdown! When he works on his craft projects- which he absolutely loves to do, he always starts crying and throwing his items on the floor in frustration when he gets stuck on a particular thing. One day, I realised that instead of becoming frustrated with him, while I watched him struggle to manage his emotions, I needed to spend some time teaching him about perseverance. I need to train this character trait in him.
On another day, I was finding it difficult to maintain a sense of order while I worked with my 2nd born because he kept on forcing his way and talking over me while I tried to explain something. The constant interruptions made it difficult for me to flow well, and I was very frustrated. That day also made me realise that I need to nurture the character trait of self control, empathy and respect within his heart.
I realise that my attempt to train character has a bigger reach. Working on their hearts is key because when we master that, this strength in character flows well to affect other areas of their lives- not just academics. From helping with chores, being together as a family as well as working well with their formal learning, the blessing is far reaching.
Nurturing character is effectively training the heart. It is the hardest job to do and requires consistency with instruction and practice. Good character doesn’t come easily or naturally to us because responding as our raw emotions lead us to is powerful. Our children have the potential of the muscle hidden within, and as mothers it is our job to help them exercise this muscle little by little to build strength, trusting that the practice of this training will bear fruit in their lives over time.
What Character traits are useful?
Character development plays a crucial role in helping our children build academic success in several ways:
Responsibility and accountability:
When our children develop a sense of responsibility, they are more likely to complete their work well, and take ownership of their learning experience. When we give them a vision that they have a part to play in filling their minds with good, beautiful and wonderful things, it fosters a sense of responsibility in this area.
Perseverance and resilience:
Character traits like perseverance and resilience help our children navigate academic challenges and setbacks. Instead of giving up when they get stuck on something, they learn to keep trying and never give up, which is essential for mastering difficult subjects and overcoming obstacles in life. We have to be there to keep encouraging them to get back up, and sowing the seeds into their hearts to persevere until they reach a solution. I am often so tempted to step in when they get stuck, but I have to also train myself to hold off for a little while so they can build a little muscle in this area. I’ll be doing them a disservice if I am constantly running to their rescue.
Self-Discipline and time management:
Self-discipline helps our children to focus on their studies, avoid distractions, and prioritise their tasks effectively over time. I am always encouraging the boys toward good time management when we need to leave the house so they’ll be aware that efficiency in this area is important. Picking up after themselves, keeping their work area reasonably organised, focusing on one task at a time are some of the ways that I also help build personal discipline within their hearts.
Integrity and honesty:
Integrity ensures that our children engage in honest academic practices, such as not cheating on exams or taking short cuts to do their work. It’s so easy to do, especially whey they lose interest and want to do something else, or want to rush through quickly.
Empathy and collaboration:
Developing empathy helps our children to work well with their teachers, creating a positive learning environment. Collaborative skills are crucial for group projects and cooperative learning activities, and encouraging them in this area is so important as they need to have respect for others as much as they do with wanting their voice to be heard. Respect is a big thing in our household of boys who have big personalities. Everyone wants to be first, and have their own way but life doesn’t work that way, so we need to teach them about the importance of working with others when it is needed.
Confidence and self-esteem:
Strong character builds confidence and self-esteem, and while encouraging empathy, we can also encourage our children to participate actively and at appropriate times by asking questions, and seeking help when needed rather than internalising their frustration with their work. One of the moments that helps us to build this character trait is during devotion time where we encourage questions, throughout.
Curiosity and Love of Learning:
Character traits such as curiosity and a love of learning inspire our children to explore subjects deeply and engage with the material beyond their classroom. This is the area that we don’t want to die because we want them to se the beauty in being life long learners. We don’t want the flame to be snuffed out because of rigid routines and expectations.
Strategies to help you instill strong character traits in your child
Teaching our children character involves intentional actions and consistent modelling of positive behaviours, as well as prayer over their lives. Remembering to give them a vision of who God is calling them to be and what the Bible encourages them to be sows a spiritual seed beyond our own voices.
Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it.
Proverbs 22:6
Here are a few ideas to encourage you in building character in your children:
Model positive behaviour:
Starting with one of the hardest ones and pointing the spotlight on ourselves! Children learn by observing their parents and caregivers. So it’s important that we demonstrate the character traits we want to instill, such as honesty, kindness, patience, and responsibility. I am so convicted by this lol! If I want my boys to be kind to others, it would be great if they first saw me modelling this to a loved one or stranger. What is caught tends to stick. Be consistent in your actions and words.
Set clear expectations and boundaries:
Establishing clear rules and expectations for behaviour is so important. With multiple children, this encouragement is so key because they feed off each other. Explain the importance of your house rules and the values behind them. We have an “Awuku” mantra that the boys say most days and have memorised. When someone misbehaves or mistreats another, we remind them of the expectations. Consistent enforcement helps our children understand the boundaries and the reasons for them.
Encourage responsibility:
Give your child age-appropriate tasks and responsibilities at home. This can include chores, managing their homework, or caring for their younger sibling. Responsibility teaches accountability and the value of contributing to the family which is so important. Responsibility is something that is dear to my heart in raising my boys because they lean towards being lazy and expecting everything to be done for them. Absolutely not lol! I am busting that myth. They need to know that they are part of a group, and it is only through responsible work that things get done.
Teach empathy and compassion:
Encourage your child to consider others’ feelings and perspectives. Use teachable moments, such as discussing a story where someone is treated unfairly to talk about empathy and kindness. I find that picking books around a topic like this is so helpful because it fires their imaginations. We all love a story- especially a life giving story that inspires us to rise up to be a better version of ourselves. When you see your child demonstrating empathy and compassion, give it a gently recognition, as this helps validate their positive action and they’ll want to keep doing it.
Promote honesty and integrity:
Foster a culture of honesty by encouraging your child to speak the truth and by being honest yourself. Praise them when they tell the truth, even in difficult situations. Discuss the importance of integrity and the consequences of dishonesty through stories and vivid illustrations because again this gives a vision that sticks in their hearts. While they are young, constant sowing and watering of he honesty and integrity seed is so important as when they grow and encounter many things, we hope that they’ll remain open with us.
Encourage perseverance and resilience:
Teach your child to face challenges and setbacks with a positive attitude. It is certainly an area where we have to persevere ourselves! We have to keep encouraging them to keep trying, even when things are difficult. It can be anything from making their bed, trying up their shoe laces correctly, putting their clothes on, writing their name, washing their hands after using the toilet, picking up their toys and putting them in the right place. We are there to encourage them towards doing things well and seeing it through to the end. Here, you can again share stories (even from your own life) of perseverance and discuss the importance of not giving up.
Teach gratitude:
Cultivate an attitude of gratitude by encouraging your child to express thanks for what they have and for the people in their lives. Prayer helps with this, as well as having conversations about God and His mercies. Some may like to practice gratitude together as a family by keeping gratitude journals or sharing things that you are thankful for each day. Training them to know what to be thankful for (such as people, provision etc) is important because it helps them to know where to direct deeper thoughts that goes beyond their toys.
Promote fairness and justice:
As much as our children love each other, they also fight ALOT because each wants their own needs met all the time. Teaching them to play fair, share, and treat others with respect is a daily work on our part because their flesh dictates so strongly. How can we do this? Talk about a situation where someone was treated unfairly. This could be from a news story, a book, or a personal experience. Discuss why it was unfair and what could have been done differently to make it just.
Use toys and playtime to teach sharing. If one child is using a toy, explain that they need to let others have a turn after a reasonable amount of time. Praise them when they share willingly.
Set up role-playing scenarios where children can practice resolving conflicts fairly. For instance, one child pretends to be upset because they were left out of a game, and the other must find a fair solution.
Encourage your child to think about how their actions affect others. If they are unkind or unfair, ask them how they would feel if the situation were reversed. This helps them understand the impact of their behavior on others.
Engage in hospitality and your community:
It is good for our children to see love for others in action and that looks different in all our homes. By involving them in our acts of service and hospitality helps to reinforce the idea that there is a world that exists outside of their own and encourages compassion and thoughtfulness towards others. Involve your child in local community service or volunteer activities. This helps to provide practical opportunities to practice and observe positive character traits in others which will also encourage them in a great way.
So there we go mama. I hope you’ll see by this post just how deep and far and broad character nurture goes, and I have only touched on a few areas. Nurturing character in our children while fostering academic success is a delicate but achievable balance that yields lifelong benefits. By modelling positive behaviour, encouraging empathy, and creating an environment where values like responsibility, honesty, and kindness are practiced daily, we lay a strong foundation for both personal growth and academic achievement over time.
Integrating character-building activities into our routines and using everyday moments as teaching opportunities will help our children develop into well-rounded individuals. Remember, the goal is not perfection but progress. With patience, consistency, and a focus on personal and spiritual development, we can support our children in becoming successful in whatever they put their mind and hearts to.
I’ve created some beautiful printables to help our children build character. These printables are available in the shop and will encourage conversations and serve as great reminders!
I’d love to hear from you! What are you implementing in your home to encourage character in your children?
My husband watched on as I juggled the demands from our 3 boys while preparing dinner, and planning family activities on a calendar. “Wow, you are a superwoman, how do you do it?” I didn’t respond because to be honest I didn’t know what to say in that moment. He often uses this phrase for me and I am quick to remind him that I am not superwoman. I am very much a woman who needs help and support because I don’t want to create an illusion that I have it all together!
We’ve all heard the saying “she’s a supermum” to describe a mother who seemingly excels in all areas of her life, often juggling multiple roles and responsibilities with exceptional efficiency and effectiveness. This can include managing a household, raising children, working a full-time job, maintaining a social life, staying physically fit, and being involved in community or school activities.
She does it all and this incredible “supermum” is often portrayed as handling these diverse and demanding tasks effortlessly and without showing signs of stress or fatigue. Some of us envy this type of mum, others work so hard to embody her, and the rest wonder how they’ll ever live up to this ideal of a woman. Whichever camp you sit in, I am here to tell you that you can take a deep long breath! Super mums aren’t miraculously created, but faithfulness to our homes is what the true goal is and where the prize lies.
I wanted to title this post originally as Faithful Mums: The true heroes beyond the supermum myth as it also truthfully echoes the reality of what we live out each day. As a Christian mother, striving for the title of “supermum” can often leave us feeling exhausted and inadequate, chasing after an impossible ideal. Striving in our own effort to fulfill a divine calling in our own strength only sets us up to feel discouraged and overwhelmed when we realise just how much the role of mother entails. We are human. We fall short, we have challenges and set backs, and we are imperfect- But God.
In God’s eyes, our faithfulness to our families holds far greater value, than us over exerting ourselves to meet shifting societal markers. Faithfulness means showing up each and every day with a hearts posture to be committed to what God has called us to- in the good and the bad. It means showing up with love, grace, and consistency, embracing the unique calling God has given us within our homes. It’s in the daily acts of care, the moments of prayer, and the intentional nurturing of our children’s hearts where “super” moments are found.
God doesn’t call us to be perfect and to have it all together. He calls us to be present and focused. When we prioritise faithfulness over perfection, we model His unwavering love and faithfulness to our children. Some days may flow really well, and other days may be very challenging. Through it all, if we determine in our hearts to not give up on what God has given us, and to count it all as a blessing, we’ll be able to connect our hearts with the right action.
This is the true essence of motherhood, far surpassing any worldly notion of being a “supermum.” In fact, if we are seeking to build lasting and deep relationships with our children, they need a Christ-dependent mum more than a supermum who wants to flow and present life perfectly well all the time.
How can we be faithful?
Some aspects of mothering are simply mundane and normal. There are laundry piles to fold, schedules to manage, food to pick up from the floor dishes to wash and floors to sweep. If we approach these tasks with our whole hearts, they too embody faithfulness to the calling of motherhood.
Waking up each day and determining within our hearts to be faithful is the first step to accomplishing this goal. Starting each day by seeking God’s guidance and strength, asking Him to fill us with His peace and wisdom helps to position our minds in the right place. Prayer anchors us in His presence and aligns our hearts with His purposes. Make it a habit to pray with and for your family, inviting God into every aspect of your daily life. Through prayer, we find the resilience to face challenges and the grace to extend love even in difficult moments.
Secondly, embracing the beauty of small, consistent acts of love is so so key. Faithfulness is often found in the ordinary moments – a kind word, a listening ear, a gentle touch, a hug. Celebrating these seemingly mundane acts as significant contributions to our family’s well-being is so important to making love feel tangible. It’s not the grand gestures but the daily demonstrations of love and care that build a strong, loving home. Remember, it’s in the little things that our faithfulness shines the brightest.
Thirdly, cultivating a heart of gratitude goes a long way. Regularly take time to count your blessings and express gratitude for your family helps to shift our focus from what we lack to the abundance we have in Christ. It fosters a positive atmosphere in our homes and helps us to see our family members through God’s eyes. By modeling thankfulness, we teach our children to appreciate the goodness of God in their lives, encouraging contentment and joy.
Lastly, weaving in rest and self-care into our routines is key to preventing burnout and helps us to remain feeling refreshed in our roles . As mothers, we often pour ourselves out for our families, but it’s essential to recognise our own need for rest and renewal. Jesus Himself took time to withdraw, rest and pray, setting an example for us. Find moments to recharge, whether through reading Scripture, enjoying a hobby, or simply taking a walk in nature. When we care for ourselves, we are better equipped and ready to to care for our families with faithful patience.
By grounding ourselves in gratitude, we can remain faithful to our families in a way that honours God and nurtures those we love. Let us cast aside the pressures of being “supermums” and instead, find joy and fulfillment in being faithful mothers, steadfastly reflecting Christ’s love and perseverance in our homes.
Alethea
Discover the joy and fulfillment of creating a loving, organised, and faith-filled home! Download my free eBook, “The Homemakers Framework,” for practical tips, encouragement, and inspiration tailored for mothers and homemakers. Start your journey towards mastering home management and nurturing your family’s well-being today. Get your free copy now and transform your home into a sanctuary of love and grace!
Motherhood is a journey filled with unparalleled joy, deep deep love, moments of sheer wonder, and an equal measure of complete unpredictability and overwhelm. The word itself evokes a flood of emotions that fills our hearts in the most beautiful way. But I’ve got to be real: motherhood also brings tremendous exhaustion, doubt, and sometimes a deep sense of inadequacy.
Can I be even more honest? This has got to be one of the most challenging roles that I have ever undertaken. As a Christian mother, I often find myself asking God, “Why does this feel so hard and overwhelming?” “Why don’t I always look and feel as though I am at ease on this journey- and I am only 6 years in!”
In this post, I wanted to share some thoughts on the challenging moments in motherhood from an honest and authentic place, as well as from the perspective of the redemptive and transforming hope that we have in Christ.
The Weight of Responsibility in motherhood
As I reflect on this, I believe that one of the primary reasons motherhood feels so hard is due to the immense responsibility it carries. From the very moment I found out I was expecting my first child and boy, my brain naturally went into overdrive. An overwhelming sense of responsibility took hold of me because suddenly, here I was, entrusted with the life and well-being of a whole tiny human – made in God’s image. The weight of making the right decisions—whether it’s about health, education, or instilling values in our children can feel incredibly heavy on our hearts. I now have three boys and I am always thinking about ways to train and nurture good character in them. We go to bed with a lot on our minds, and wake up with our brains running at 100 miles per hour.
“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old, he will not depart from it.” Proverbs 22:6
This verse both inspires and instructs us to be diligent in our parenting. One of my take aways from this verse is the power of habits in the area of training. No matter what it is- good or bad, we are training our children to believe, accept and understand life from a particular perspective. The seeds we sow now, will be implanted in their hearts and shape their future later on. Being faithful to trust that God will water these seeds in their hearts helps to ease the anxiety and overwhelm that comes with such a responsibility.
While we play a significant role in our children’s lives, ultimately, their journey is in God’s hands. He loves them even more than we do, and He has a plan for their lives. God is sovereign and He works all things for our good; even our parenting blunders!
Often, the weight of responsibility also falls upon us when it comes to home management. Balancing the task of maintaining a clean home while looking after children can feel like a never-ending battle. There are days when the laundry piles up, toys are scattered everywhere, and the dishes seem to multiply each time we walk through the kitchen. It’s easy to stress about keeping everything spotless, but I’ve learned to adjust my expectations and find a balance that works for my family.
To ease some of the stress in this area, we can focus on creating a home that is functional and comfortable rather than perfect. I’ve started involving my children in the cleaning and laundry process. It not only lightens my load but also teaches them responsibility. We turn chores into fun activities, like having a race to see who can pick up the most toys or playing music while we clean. It’s not always smooth sailing, but by embracing a bit of mess and finding joy in the process, I’ve discovered that a clean home and happy children can coexist, even if it means things aren’t always picture-perfect. This approach has brought more peace and laughter into our home, reminding me that the goal is not perfection, but a loving and nurturing environment, and a balance that helps me to carry my load well.
The Sacrifice of Self
Motherhood requires so much self-sacrifice. From the moment conception occurs, our body begins to change in remarkable ways. Hormonal shifts cause everything from morning sickness to mood swings. The body starts to make room for the growing baby, which often leads to discomfort and pain. As the baby grows, organs shift, the spine adjusts, and our bodies carry additional weight. Stretch marks, swelling, and changes in skin texture are all things that we have to deal with- not to mention the moment of birth and all that comes with it. It truly is an extraordinary journey.
There are sleepless nights, countless nappy changes, and a never-ending list of demands. There are some days when I feel like I’ve lost myself completely. My own dreams and desires often take a backseat to the needs of my children. On one particularly challenging day, I remember looking at my tired face in the mirror, the incoming grey hairs, postpartum hair loss and thinking “wow, I feel like I have lost so much”.
The things I once enjoyed—reading a good book, going for a jog, even just taking a quiet moment to myself—have became rare luxuries with very young children. The sacrifice is very real, and yet I am humbled as I think of this role as a mere shadow of the life of Christ and all He had to give up so we could have life in Him. His sacrifice and death meant life for us! What a great call when we walk down this path. We are called to lay down our lives for our children, but in doing so, we must also remember to find time to replenish our spirits and care for ourselves, seeking strength and renewal in our relationship with Christ.
The demands of motherhood can make it seem like there’s no room for anything else. But over time, I’ve learned the importance of self-care. Finding time for myself, even in small ways, helps me to recharge. Whether it’s spending a few minutes in prayer and reflection each morning or taking a walk in the evening, these moments help me to center myself and draw closer to God.
Creating a “thrive list” has been a game-changer for me in navigating the demands and sacrifice in motherhood. This list includes all the things that bring me joy and fulfillment such as reading a good book, taking a walk in nature, enjoying a hot cup of tea, or spending quiet time in prayer. By intentionally setting aside time to engage in this, I ensure that I don’t lose myself in the daily responsibilities of motherhood. It’s a reminder that nurturing my own well-being is essential, not only for me but also for my ability to be the best mother I can be to my boys. Making space for what I love helps me to thrive, maintaining a sense of balance and joy in the beautiful chaos of raising children.
You can download yours for FREE here and put it in a place where you’ll see it and be encouraged to pour into yourself.
One of the areas that can make motherhood feel so hard in today’s world, is the pressure to be the “perfect” mother because of what we see online and on the television. Social media often bombards us with images of seemingly flawless families and this can make us question our own abilities and worth. It’s filled with images of spotless homes, gourmet meals, and perfectly behaved children as people share their highlight reels. It’s easy to fall into the trap of comparison and feel like we are not measuring up when we constantly feast on these images and videos. We worry about whether we are doing enough, whether our children are thriving, and whether we measure up to other mothers as we only think about all the things that we aren’t doing.
However, Romans 3:23 reminds us, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” We are not called to be perfect; we are called to be faithful. Our imperfections and struggles are opportunities to lean on God’s grace and to teach our children about His unconditional love and forgiveness. By embracing our imperfections, we show our children that it is okay to make mistakes and that God’s grace is sufficient for all our shortcomings.
My home might be messy, my meals might not be gourmet, and my children definitely have their difficult moments as do I, but that’s okay. Responding to God’s redemptive offer time and time again helps us to keep our hearts focused on what truly matters, which is a home filled with love.
Finding Strength in Community
Motherhood can feel isolating, especially when we face challenges that we think no one else understands. However, we are not meant to walk this journey alone. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 tells us, “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.”
Finding a community of fellow mothers has been a lifeline for me. Whether through church groups, parenting classes, or online forums, sharing my experiences with others who understand has lightened my load. We laugh together, cry together, and lift each other up just in the moment we need it most.
I remember the first time I attended our first Homeschool co-op group. I was nervous and a bit reluctant to share my struggles. However, as I listened to other mothers speak about their own challenges and triumphs, I felt a sense of camaraderie. We were all in this together. Over time, these women have become a support system for me. Knowing that I’m not alone in my struggles has been incredibly comforting. That’s why this space Graced for Home is so precious. It is a space for us to join hands, be encouraged, share and be inspired to continue on our journey.
Embracing God’s Plan
Ultimately, the challenges of motherhood remind us to trust in God’s plan for our lives and the lives of our children. Jeremiah 29:11 offers us hope: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”
When motherhood feels hard, we can find solace in knowing that God is not just with our children, but with us too, guiding us through every difficulty and rejoicing with us in every triumph. By surrendering our worries and burdens to Him, we can find peace and assurance that we are not alone in this journey.
There are days when I question if I’m doing enough, if I’m making the right choices, if I’m a good mother. The chaos can be so overstimulating for me to the point of shut down. In those moments, I turn to God in prayer. I ask for His guidance, His wisdom, and His peace. I remind myself of His promises and His faithfulness. Trusting in God’s plan doesn’t mean that motherhood will be easy, but it does mean that we are not alone. He is with us, every step of the way, providing the strength and grace we need to help us raise our little ones.
If you’re wondering how to start a blog, and make money online, this in-depth post will guide you through the setup process step by step so that you can have your new blog up and running today!
I’ll be honest and say that it can all be overwhelming. There is just so much information out there, and as mums we already have a million tabs open in our minds. My aim in this post is to break down the process of what a blog is and how one is started so you’ll get an overview of how to start one too if you want to run a meaningful and impactful thriving business from home!
Mark today as the day that something profound shifts in favour for you and your family. You can completely change your lives, and see financial blessings over time by learning how to start a blog around a passion or interest. It is possible!
I left my corporate career in marketing and communications in 2022 to stay at home full time with my three beautiful boys, but I wanted to contribute to one of our family streams which was building our children’s savings accounts. I have tried multiple ways to make money from home as a stay at home mum. After many different ventures, I finally learned how to start a blog and make money from it. I am still learning and growing, and want to share everything with you too so that you can thrive right from home, and anywhere else in the world that you please.
This in depth guide will show you exactly how to start a blog, what tools to use, how to write your first blog post, how to get traffic and how to make money with your blog. It is a lot so bookmark this page so you can come back to it! I’ll also break down the sections for you so that you can read and link through them and come back to read when you need to.
I help and serve mums who want to start a successful blogging journey using their own authentic voice to share or provide value in the area of their passions and interests with a valued and small community. This guide can be used by any woman who desires to start a successful blog and earn an income from it!
It’s for the stay at home mum who wants to contribute to her family finances
The working mum who wants time freedom so she can spend more time with her children and loved ones
It’s for the mums of grown up children who want to explore a creative way of sharing their experience and advice
Any woman who wants to explore the world of digital marketing and how to earn an income from it!
It’s possible to have a blog up and running in just a few minutes, and in this guide, I’ll show you some of the important details behind starting a successful blog. I’ll be adding a lot of links (non-affiliate) and downloadable PDFs so you’ll have all the resources you need to get started quickly!
What is a blog?
A blog is a type of website or an online platform where you regularly publish valuable content, typically in the form of written articles, known as posts. Blogs can cover a wide range of topics, from personal experiences and opinions to specialised subjects such as technology, fashion, travel, food, or business. Blogs allow readers to leave comments, creating interaction and building a personal community around your content.
Step 1: Take time to think about your passion and interests
Grab a notebook and write down some of the first thoughts that come to mind when you think about the things that you are interested in. What makes you excited? passionate, sad, happy, hopeful? What stage are you in your life journey and what do you find yourself googling a lot about as a result? What websites or social media accounts do you enjoy and why?
Your answers to these questions will help build a picture about your interests and if you think broader, the kind of audience that consumes this content. This will help you shortlist possible blog areas that you can talk about.
Reminder: You don’t have to be an expert yet, as you blog you’ll become better! As long as there is a genuine interest, you’ll build consistency easily.
A genuine worry when it comes to our interests, is whether there will be enough people in the world also interested in it to help us build a profitable income. I here you. A quick way to gauge this is: Search on Amazon. Have a look under the topic you want to blog about. Have there been a lot of books written? what do the reviews say? This gives you an idea of what people are saying- good and bad. You can also do a good old google search and see what automatically pops up. This will help you to know if there is an audience for what you want to blog about. Evidence of a strong audience means potential for income which is a great sign.
Step 2: Who is your audience and how are they linked to your passion
Finding your niche audience is a crucial step in building a successful blog or business. Most likely, your area of interest is broad (e.g. I enjoy content around cooking meals for my family). This passion is completely fine, but we can niche down even more. What type of cuisines are enjoyed? why? Any health benefits? cultural interests or preferences? Are we cooking for babies, toddlers, teenagers, or thinking about hosting for large or small family gatherings? Are we adding the whole hosting (decor items) into the mix or are we thinking purely about the food preparation? Is the content around the purchasing of the food (and where to buy the most affordable ingredients), or the actual cooking and plating of it?
See what I’ve done there? There are so many ways that you can look at just one area of interest and break it down. As you break it down, the audience is niched down and this is great because you can then get more specific, and this means you’ll be able to offer specific advice that will actually be valuable to your audience! Value equals potential for consistent and good income.
Step 3: Pick your blog name
You may have a name picked out already, but if you are struggling in this area I would say don’t stress too much about getting the perfect name for your blog right now– what you blog about is much more important than the name you choose. The name will eventually come to you. It may end up being a fun quirky name, or a straight to the point name.
Either way, you can think about something that will be memorable, not too long and possibly relevant to your topic and audience. Once you know what purpose your blog will serve, you could add in that in the title of your blog e.g. ourfamilymeals.com. A name like this gives your reader instant information about what your blog will center on. If it’s a real struggle you could also just use your own name as your blog title! The benefits of having your own name as your blog is that it’s unique and branded, but also generic enough so you can blog about any topic. Using websites to help you think of blog names is also a great way to get the ideas flowing.
Once you have decided on a name, you can search for it in domain websites to see if it doesn’t already exist. If you want to, you can purchase the domain name so it’s ready for your website.
Once you have thought of a name you can go ahead and also create a cute logo in an editing suite. Again you don’t have to have it completely figured out at this stage as most likely, you’ll evolve and develop your branding into something stunningly beautiful as time goes on.
Step 4: Decide where you want to host your lovely blog
A hosting website service, is a platform that provides the technologies and services needed for a website to be accessible on the Internet. When you create a website, you need to store its files on a server, and web hosting companies provide the space on their servers to store your website’s files.
Key Features of Web Hosting Services:
Server Space: The core service offered by web hosting providers is server space where your website’s files, databases, and applications are stored.
Domain Name Registration: Many hosting services also offer domain name registration services, allowing you to secure and register the address of your website (e.g., www.yourwebsite.com).
Bandwidth: Hosting services provide a certain amount of bandwidth, which is the amount of data that can be transferred between your website and its users. Higher bandwidth is necessary for websites with high traffic.
Email Accounts: Hosting providers often include email hosting, allowing you to create professional email addresses (e.g., name@yourwebsite.com).
Security Features: These include SSL certificates, firewalls, malware scanning, and other security measures to protect your website from cyber threats.
Database Support: Many websites require databases to function (e.g., MySQL, PostgreSQL), and hosting services offer support for these databases.
Technical Support: Reliable customer support is crucial for addressing any issues or downtime that may occur.
Backup Services: Regular backups of your website’s data are essential to prevent data loss in case of hardware failure or other issues.
For most users, Bluehost and Cloudways is a great beginner friendly place to start.
There are free platforms out there, such as Blogger and WordPress.com, and they are great for hobby blogs – but if you want to monetise your site, it’s best to have a dedicated blog that is self-hosted, where you control all of the content and have complete ownership of it.
I have always used WordPress.org and found it to be such a robust and reliable website that does it all! A self hosted website on WordPress.org will mean that you control your content and can monetise as your please.
Installing WordPress
You can now install WordPress and start building your site!
The homepage will look like this: Select “Set up with a hosting provider”.
This will take you to a page where you will have the option to select a hosting provider – Bluehost. Once you select that option it’ll take you to the Bluehost website where you follow the instructions, purchase the first simple plan, and create your domain name- linking it with your hosting site and blog site.
Step 5: Navigating WordPress and writing your first blog post
All set up? Fantastic! Congratulations! This is an exciting step to launching your wonderful valuable business! Once you have logged into your new WordPress site (be sure to safely record your password details) you’ll see a homepage that looks similar to the below:
Spend some time going through the various settings. It may be confusing at first and overwhelming, but over time, it will all start to look familiar, and you’ll be enjoying all the great benefits of this powerful site. One of the first settings I recommend you change is the permalink structure. Click on “Settings” and then “Permalinks.”
Select the “Post Name” option. It’s important to make this change before you start publishing posts. Once you publish and have inbound links to your posts, it’s a little more difficult to change the URL structure.
Some of the areas in the left hand menu that you’ll need to familiarise yourself with are the Posts, Plugins and Widgets and themes! Installing a theme is really the fun part where you can customise and personalise your site to really reflect your style, or the style of your target audience!.
You can find out more detailed information regarding your dashboard on the WordPress site.
Step 6: Writing your first few blog posts
Once you know what your audience wants to see and know, and you figure out how to create value in your own unique way using your own unique voice, the next step is to create the content- aka write your blog posts! If you aren’t familiar with writing blog posts, this can take some time as you figure out. I would start with a few pillar posts. Your intial brainstorm activity would have given you enough information to know what you want to say, and how you want to present yourself to your audience.
One of the first things that I learnt when starting to think about blogging seriously was the fact that it’s super important to circulate your content around three different types of blog posts when you are just starting:
A blog post dedicated to growing traffic (offering valuable information)
A blog post to help make money (a recommendation post with links)
A blog post that grows your email list (offering something for free for a signup)
See examples of what post titles could look like if your blog was about making family meals:
Your traffic post could be, “How to feed your family on a small budget.”
Your money making post would be, “The Best Airfryer that saves time and makes food taste delicious.”
And your email list post could be, “The family meal plan that will save you time and money – free PDF”.
Keep building on this, giving relevant, relatable and valuable content.
Step 7: Add Standard Blog Pages
Setting up a few pillar posts, as well as foundational things in the first stage will help you build momentum, and will serve as a great central core for you to come back to if you need a reminder of what your blog is about and what you want to do. These posts can always be edited and updated in the future, but for now they are great to start with:
5 Pillar Posts
A clear blog menu (what are the core areas of your blog purpose)
A good profile picture (take one in natural lighting)
A Disclosure Page – if you plan on using affiliate marketing and selling on your site
A way to contact you (you can add this to your About Me page)
Links to your social media pages
Step 8: Decide on a Blog Posting Schedule
When you are first getting started it can be hard to post consistently if you aren’t used to it. But it’s crucial if you are going to build momentum, and get clearer on what you are offering to your audience. Here, I would suggest building a library of posts quite quickly so that readers have something to browse when they land on your website. Once you have 10-15 posts in place, it would be helpful to you to develop a consistent posting schedule so you don’t get overwhelmed and can give yourself time to think about what you want to write.
Common schedules include daily posts for news or dynamic niches, weekly posts for consistent engagement, bi-weekly posts for higher quality content, and monthly posts for comprehensive, in-depth articles.
You could plan your content calendar by brainstorming relevant topics and varying the types of content, such as how-tos, listicles, interviews, and reviews. Include seasonal and timely posts that align with holidays, seasons, or industry events, and ensure you have buffer time for editing and unforeseen delays. Use tools like Trello, Asana, or Google Calendar to organise your schedule, and leverage CMS platforms like WordPress for built-in scheduling features. Regularly monitor performance using analytics tools like Google Analytics, and be ready to adjust your schedule based on performance data and audience feedback.
For example, a balanced weekly blog schedule might involve publishing a new post on Monday, promoting it on social media on Tuesday, engaging with reader comments on Wednesday, conducting keyword research and outlining the next post on Thursday, writing and editing on Friday, taking a break or focusing on other activities on Saturday, and doing a final review on Sunday. By following these steps, you can develop a blog posting schedule that aligns with your goals and resources while keeping your audience engaged and eager for more content.
When you are posting at the same days and times each week, you become part of your readers’ routines and they come to expect your new posts, which makes it easier to build up a loyal community. The number of times per week or month that you post is up to you. Think about how many helpful blog posts you can publish on a consistent basis, and make that number work for you.
It goes without saying that one of the first areas that is helpful to think about when promoting your blog and its content is social media. Leveraging social media by choosing platforms where your target audience is most active, such as Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest is great as you’ll be able to build community and interested and engaged followers. Creating a consistent posting schedule will be very useful in establishing yourself as a reliable and go to person for your content which is exactly what we want!
Additionally, optimising your blog for search engines (SEO) is essential. Conduct keyword research using tools like Google Keyword Planner or SEMrush to find relevant keywords and incorporate them naturally into your blog posts. Optimise your titles, headings, meta descriptions, and images with appropriate keywords, and use internal linking to improve navigation and SEO.
Building an email list is another powerful strategy for promoting and growing your blog. Offer a freebie such as an e-book, checklist, or exclusive content to encourage sign-ups, and send regular newsletters with updates, exclusive content, and promotions (if relevant). To enhance this, you can segment your email list to tailor content to different audience segments based on what they respond to; increasing engagement. Collaborating with other bloggers in your industry or area of interest is also a fantastic way of extending your reach to new audiences. You could also write guest posts for other blogs in your niche, engage in link exchanges to boost SEO and referral traffic, and partner for joint giveaways, webinars, or social media takeovers.
Utilising paid advertising to reach a broader audience can be very effective. Facebook Ads, Google AdWords, and Pinterest Ads can effectively drive targeted traffic to your blog. Creating high-quality, shareable content is crucial so do your best to use high-quality images and infographics, write comprehensive guides and how-to posts, and offer content upgrades like printable PDFs to encourage sharing and engagement. Engage in online communities by joining and participating in Facebook groups, answering questions on forums and Q&A sites like Quora, and leaving thoughtful comments on other blogs.
Networking offline can also be beneficial if that interests you or is your preference! Attending local events, meetups, and conferences related to your niche, and hosting or participating in workshops and classes to establish yourself as an authority is a great way to meet others, widen your reach and have fun immersing yourself in an interest.
Offering affiliate marketing is another way to monetise your blog. Join affiliate programs relevant to your niche, include affiliate links in your blog posts, and write detailed reviews of products you genuinely use and love. Always disclose your use of affiliate links to maintain transparency and trust with your readers. If you come across as genuine and honest in this area, you could see a real surge in your income with blogging as we are all looking for someone to share things honestly with us that will transform our lives in one way or another.
There are so many other areas that you could look at when it comes to monetising your blog, but for now I think these suggestions are enough to help you soar when learnt, implemented and mastered over time. By adopting these strategies, you can effectively promote your blog, build a loyal audience, and start generating income from your blogging efforts. Consistency and genuine engagement with your audience are key to long-term success and you can do it!
Step 10: Selling Digital Products
In this last but not least section (I could honestly keep going on!) I want to talk about digital products because when done well, and marketed well, they can be a great source of income. With this model, you create something — maybe an eBook, course, printables, and sell it to your readers on your blog. The great benefits of digital products are that you only have to do the work once when you create it. Then all you have to do is market it to your audience in the right way, or even upload it to popular sites such as Etsy, and you’ll receive an income each time you make a sale.
Unlike physical products, digital products have low production and distribution costs, allowing for significant profit potential. They enable you to leverage your expertise and provide valuable content to your audience in a more in-depth format, enhancing your authority and credibility in your niche. Additionally, digital products can be sold repeatedly without the need for inventory, making them a sustainable income source.
They also offer flexibility, as you can create and sell products tailored to your audience’s needs and preferences, leading to higher customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Conclusion
SO there you go! What I hope is a helpful guide to help you mama. Blogging has the potential to be an incredibly lucrative business if we work consistently at it. By implementing one or more of the strategies shared above, your income could go from £0 to more than £100 a month to several thousand pounds per month over time!
Why do you want to start a blog? Leave your reply below, even if it’s just a few words!
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