Before we start school next week, and while I’m busily trying to nail down a schedule that will work for us, I feel like I should take the time to remind myself what my goals are for this homeschool year. That way I can keep them in mind whether things seem too hard, too easy, too frantic or dull. So that I can make adjustments in order to meet these goals. And perhaps these goals will change as well:
- To not feel overwhelmed. I want homeschooling to feel natural, relaxed and fun. Some structure and order is necessary to get anything accomplished, but this order should help the boys feel more loved and happy as I will be devoting more attention to them. If nothing else, the schedule is keep keep me focused and from spacing out all day and not getting anything done.
- To go at Meo’s own pace and not be worried that he is not doing more or less than what the kids in public school are doing.
- To at least try to work through the oak meadow curriculum. It’s stress free, simple and fun and definitely won’t be pushing Meo to do more than he can handle.
- To try to supplement oak meadow with Handwriting without Tears as well as the Ordinary Parent’s guide to teaching reading. But to make sure not to overwhelm or push him too hard. I only decided to add these materials because he’s been asking me how to write things and what words and books say. FOLLOW HIS LEAD.
- Try to do a little bit of French everyday. Either by watching Lil’ Pim when I’m making a meal, reading french books, or singing french songs during circle time or music time.
- To continue to read chapter books everynight to them.
- To incorporate yoga and/or meditation into their day as a way to focus, unwind and practice patience.
- To involve the kids in cleaning and come up with a reasonable cleaning plan that we can easily fit into our schedule.
- To try to get to the library once a week.
- They are signed up for Soccer, Storybook Theater, Martial Arts, Swimming, Earth School (Homeschool Coop) and Violin lessons. These are important ways for them to be around other kids and acquire skills that they cannot get from being home alone with me. These are substitutes for activities they would be doing in school if they were to go to a public school. But I need to also make sure they are enjoying them and not overwhelmed and that we are still able to get school work done in a relaxed manner.
- To go for a hike or nature walk at least once a week.
- To have art and play time regularly with a couple of Meo's homeschool friends.
- To get outside at least a little everyday.
- To do a little meal planning and prep work on the weekend so we are ready for the week with lots of healthy and yummy foods. And to make sure the boys can be involved in some of the cooking/baking.
- To remember to be present and enjoy this time with them. They are little boys. Play with them, really see with them and be with them. That is what is most important...everything else can be tossed aside.
