=For fun I went back and wrote out the schedule from a day of homeschooling with my kids. The last blog brought back so many memories of special moments – having them at home. Even now we laugh about those sweet and funny times.
Our mornings started about 7am (6:30 for me to exercise) with light room chores and breakfast while we watched a short video. We began at 8:30 with Bible reading and language arts workbooks, writing exercises and spelling. Math followed, before eating a snack and listening to a history related read- a-loud on the couch and floor. My artistic students always colored and traced art while I read. “Keep their hands busy” was my motto.
We took a quick run and jump around outside, before getting lunch together (sometimes cooking), followed by a good clean up. Next we dove into science, while the little ones napped. This led to “Quiet Time” for everyone in every grade. A reading hour or time to write a paper, maybe work on the computer. This also offered one-on-one with the newest reader.
My favorite activities came after nap: art, music, dancing. Fridays were “Park Days” with other homeschool families. Eventually I added gymnastic classes which took up more and more afternoons… then soccer practice with weekend games. In the cooler weather we went camping, in the hot weather we played at the pool. Every venue offered a classroom for learning.
Of course there were difficulties; tears of frustration at not getting something the first time (math!), little ones who messed up an older child’s creation, a few class pets that died or got away (butterfly, hermit crab, fish, turtle, bird), irritation over a book that was too long, slow or uninteresting- ugh. And stress for the teacher. I ran by a detailed schedule, checking off endless lists. Very conscientious to the point of paranoia. I was always concerned I’d mess them up. I used to get a twitch in my eye around October that lasted until spring.
But every August our books and notes would arrive in a box – exciting! I loved the stories and learning and art and teaching! Bright little faces and eager minds. I treasured being the one to watch them grasp a new skill, listen to their discoveries and marvel at their creativity. Such personalities: we had a class clown who was always finished early and caused trouble, a grumpy morning girl who did NOT want to be touched, another who fell asleep any time it got quiet, a student who rushed through his work in order to play legos… and an expert arguer with answers printed in the Teacher’s Guide!
I wish I could go back knowing who they have become today. What a blessing. What a gift. Homeschooling
ForGlorySake! – Anna
