After much neglect, I am here again to post an update! No, we did not fall off the face of the earth! Life in the shoe has been busy, as usual, or maybe more than usual.
Much change has occurred in the shoe since I last posted. I will not go into all of that in this post, since it would take too long.
Our third child, third daughter, Bethany graduated from homeschool highschool May 2013! She graduated with an honors in fine arts.
Many of you may not be familiar with homeschool graduation, or live in an area where ceremonies are not available. We have an organization called C.H.A.L.C. that provides an opportunity for senior homeschoolers to have activities, such as a formal and a banquet, as well as socials. They have quite a large graduation ceremony at the end of the school year. It is quite impressive.
Bethany was on the worship band during the ceremony. She played bass guitar and sang. She also participated in the planning of the formal, and the after party for the formal. It was all very nice, but a LOT of work!
Bethany is working at a local grocerry store, and plans to work and save money for her future. She feels the Lord is calling her to someday be a wife and mother. She continues to help here at home with the family and is learning more about running a household and caring for children. (and she continues to spoil her baby sister, Trinity!)
Other big news! Joshua no longer needs to wear the patch on his eye! After 8 years of patching therapy, he is free! This was very difficult for him, at first. He was fearful that his eye would become weak again if he did not wear his patch. It took a lot of reassurance that first week that it was ok to not wear his patch.
His eye is not all better now, far from it. He will continue to wear his medically necessary contact lens, and use drops for glaucoma. But the vision in his right eye is no longer making progress, it has been 20/50 for quite some time. We did a trial of 3 months increasing the patch to four hours per day, with no improvement. So it was time to accept that Josh's vision in his affected eye will not be more than 20/50. Unless, of course, the Lord performs a miracle;)
I am thankful, yet a bit disappointed at the same time. I had hoped for the best vision ever reported in a child with PHPV, one for the record books. But that didnt happen. But Josh's vision is quite remarkable for someone with his history. It is better than many children with his diagnosis and complications. I have the peace knowing we did everything in our power to give him the best chance of vision. I do not have any regrets. Praise God! Josh has usable vision!
Showing posts with label homeschool. Show all posts
Showing posts with label homeschool. Show all posts
Friday, July 12, 2013
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
A Short Update
I am not sure if anyone ever reads my rambling thoughts. My intention was never to be one of the "popular" bloggers. My desire was, and still is, to put my thoughts into writing when I am able. Life gets busy with eight children still living under my roof. Some days I feel as though I have no thoughts worth putting into writing.
We have had a lot going on. More medical things. Nothing as dramatic/traumatic as last summer, praise God. I am happy with boring and humdrum:)
Joshua, now 7yo, had his 7th surgery on March 27th. This was another eye muscle surgery, to straighten and fix the v-pattern movement of his right eye. He is fully recovered, and his eye looks good. But this surgery was longer than his other muscle surgeries, resulting in a lot more post-op pain. Pain so severe that Tylenol was not making a dent. Many children cry and scream when in pain. Josh has always shut down when in pain. I knew it needed action when he no longer answered my yes and no questions. Thankfully, he is back to his former self, complaining about daily patching time, and trying to sneak out the door before his school work is completed.
Christopher has had some odd symptoms going on. Some of which have caused us, and the doctor, enough concern to warrant a trip to the pediatric hematologist. He has an appointment in mid-May. One of the symptoms is spontaneous gum bleeding. Since Ginko can cause gum bleeding we have discontinued that for now. The episodes have not stopped, but we will not restart the herb until we see the specialist.
Topher has also been having troubles with his ears again. He had the tubes that were supposed to last up to 5yrs. His came out in less than 2yrs. The audiologist at the Cleft Palate Clinic felt he has developed sensorineuro hearing loss, and recommended hearing aids. The PA at the ENT office, said one ear already has fluid behind the drum, and the other has a sizable hole, too large to place another tube. We need to address the fluid before we can get aids. She said we can go in and put a tube in one ear, and go back later for the other. We decided to wait, at this point, until after he sees the hematologist. Hopefully, by then, either his ears will both be clear, or they will both be ready for tubes:( (Even though I do not want to do tubes again, I want him to be able to hear.)
We are winding down our current school year. We are in crunch time, where my highschoolers need to knuckle down and get their term papers finished, and tie up any loose ends. Then the portfolios need put together for our required trip to the evaluator. Then the kids can sigh a huge sigh of relief, while I gear up for the next school year.
We have had a lot going on. More medical things. Nothing as dramatic/traumatic as last summer, praise God. I am happy with boring and humdrum:)
Joshua, now 7yo, had his 7th surgery on March 27th. This was another eye muscle surgery, to straighten and fix the v-pattern movement of his right eye. He is fully recovered, and his eye looks good. But this surgery was longer than his other muscle surgeries, resulting in a lot more post-op pain. Pain so severe that Tylenol was not making a dent. Many children cry and scream when in pain. Josh has always shut down when in pain. I knew it needed action when he no longer answered my yes and no questions. Thankfully, he is back to his former self, complaining about daily patching time, and trying to sneak out the door before his school work is completed.
Christopher has had some odd symptoms going on. Some of which have caused us, and the doctor, enough concern to warrant a trip to the pediatric hematologist. He has an appointment in mid-May. One of the symptoms is spontaneous gum bleeding. Since Ginko can cause gum bleeding we have discontinued that for now. The episodes have not stopped, but we will not restart the herb until we see the specialist.
Topher has also been having troubles with his ears again. He had the tubes that were supposed to last up to 5yrs. His came out in less than 2yrs. The audiologist at the Cleft Palate Clinic felt he has developed sensorineuro hearing loss, and recommended hearing aids. The PA at the ENT office, said one ear already has fluid behind the drum, and the other has a sizable hole, too large to place another tube. We need to address the fluid before we can get aids. She said we can go in and put a tube in one ear, and go back later for the other. We decided to wait, at this point, until after he sees the hematologist. Hopefully, by then, either his ears will both be clear, or they will both be ready for tubes:( (Even though I do not want to do tubes again, I want him to be able to hear.)
We are winding down our current school year. We are in crunch time, where my highschoolers need to knuckle down and get their term papers finished, and tie up any loose ends. Then the portfolios need put together for our required trip to the evaluator. Then the kids can sigh a huge sigh of relief, while I gear up for the next school year.
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
Valentine's Day Party
We had our homeschool group's Valentine's Day Party today. My kids look forward to this every year. They enjoy filling out the corny little cards as much as they enjoy recieving them.
This year, we all took a pink desserts to share. There were many tastey homemade treats, lots of red food coloring:)
Most of the girls wore dressy dresses, or prom gowns.
Today also happens to be Topher's 5th birthday! Other than not wanting to eat lunch, and not being allowed to take off, he had a pretty good day. He even made a new friend! For some reason he seems to gravitate toward people who are much taller than he is. He pulled Will along by his coat for a while, then Will decided to carry Topher on his back, or maybe that was Topher's decision:)
Either way, it made Topher's day! And it made my day! I am very impressed by this 14yo young man! He seemed unconcerned about impressing anyone, not worried about being self-important, as many teens can be. What a blessing!
This year, we all took a pink desserts to share. There were many tastey homemade treats, lots of red food coloring:)
Most of the girls wore dressy dresses, or prom gowns.
Today also happens to be Topher's 5th birthday! Other than not wanting to eat lunch, and not being allowed to take off, he had a pretty good day. He even made a new friend! For some reason he seems to gravitate toward people who are much taller than he is. He pulled Will along by his coat for a while, then Will decided to carry Topher on his back, or maybe that was Topher's decision:)
Monday, November 7, 2011
Homeschooling Update
Life has been busy here in the shoe. We have been plugging away with our homeschooling. My days are full with homeschooling seven children!
Jesse, my second grader, is doing well with reading. He eagerly brings books to read to me. Math is another story. It is more work for him. He would rather do the things that come easy, and skip those things that take time and effort. Pretty typical for all of us!
Josh, my first grader, who has the eye problems, is doing well, too. He is my only south paw, and that has been interesting. He is reading well, and sometimes thinks he is in a competition with Jesse. Some days he cries because Jesse is ahead of him.
Seth is my fourth grader. He is doing well, is really beginning to bloom as a student. He likes to work outside with his daddy on the weekends, and enjoys seeing how things work. And he LOVES dinosaurs!
Aaron is doing well with his school work, after his big ordeal last summer. He still creates ways to get out of work, so I would say he is back to his former self:)
Sarah is a freshman this year. She is enjoying being a bit more independent with her work. She has a heart for learning and desires to be a speech and language pathologist someday. She is in the process of starting her own ministry. She is selling handknitted hats and other items, to raise money for more yarn. With the yarn she buys, she is knitting hats to send to an orphanage in eastern Europe. She hopes to someday go and work with the children there, but for now, she sends them her love in the form of hats.
(The items she sells are mostly made of handspun wool, which is not good for donating to places where handwashing would not be an option. The would quickly end up with unusable hats. Thus, the selling of items to buy yarn.)
Bethany is a junior this year. She is one of my artsy ones and is working toward an arts honor diploma. She is getting quite good with her drawing. She also enjoys knitting, but is not driven the way her sister is. Bethany is learning to drive, which has proved to be quite interesting for her dad!
Christopher is my preschooler. We are doing a K4 program that is especially for children with T21. We just started this level and are working on getting a feel for the program, and getting organized. Currently, he is learning more sight words, and attempting to put them together to form very simple sentences. He is learning to match the names of himself and family members to their pictures. He enjoys this. We then use the names with the sight words in sentences. I have noticed this helps Christopher attempt to say words he otherwise would not. He is able to say his own name now! Well, the nickname we call him: Topher. I love the joy he has when he has accomplished something new!
In math, Christopher is working with learning his colors. We are doing all sorts of "red" things now. Red hearts, red ladybugs, red playdough, finding red clothing in story books. He is counting to 5 and stacking blocks, and doing sequencing with the blocks.
His muscle tone in his hands is quite low, so we are squeezing putty balls, and poking playdough to help strengthen and give better control. Holding crayons and pencils can be a challenge to little hands that have low muscle tone.
Trinity is my little toddler girl. She is busy playing and developing her speech and other skills. When we work with Topher with his speech, she is by his side, saying all the words we are trying to get him to say. They laugh together and fight together. She has passed him in speech, which we knew would happen. In many ways, they are like having twins, they are so close in development right now. I know this will change, as Trinity speeds into the next stage, and Christopher enjoys taking his time and savors the moments.
Jesse, my second grader, is doing well with reading. He eagerly brings books to read to me. Math is another story. It is more work for him. He would rather do the things that come easy, and skip those things that take time and effort. Pretty typical for all of us!
Josh, my first grader, who has the eye problems, is doing well, too. He is my only south paw, and that has been interesting. He is reading well, and sometimes thinks he is in a competition with Jesse. Some days he cries because Jesse is ahead of him.
Seth is my fourth grader. He is doing well, is really beginning to bloom as a student. He likes to work outside with his daddy on the weekends, and enjoys seeing how things work. And he LOVES dinosaurs!
Aaron is doing well with his school work, after his big ordeal last summer. He still creates ways to get out of work, so I would say he is back to his former self:)
Sarah is a freshman this year. She is enjoying being a bit more independent with her work. She has a heart for learning and desires to be a speech and language pathologist someday. She is in the process of starting her own ministry. She is selling handknitted hats and other items, to raise money for more yarn. With the yarn she buys, she is knitting hats to send to an orphanage in eastern Europe. She hopes to someday go and work with the children there, but for now, she sends them her love in the form of hats.
(The items she sells are mostly made of handspun wool, which is not good for donating to places where handwashing would not be an option. The would quickly end up with unusable hats. Thus, the selling of items to buy yarn.)
Bethany is a junior this year. She is one of my artsy ones and is working toward an arts honor diploma. She is getting quite good with her drawing. She also enjoys knitting, but is not driven the way her sister is. Bethany is learning to drive, which has proved to be quite interesting for her dad!
Christopher is my preschooler. We are doing a K4 program that is especially for children with T21. We just started this level and are working on getting a feel for the program, and getting organized. Currently, he is learning more sight words, and attempting to put them together to form very simple sentences. He is learning to match the names of himself and family members to their pictures. He enjoys this. We then use the names with the sight words in sentences. I have noticed this helps Christopher attempt to say words he otherwise would not. He is able to say his own name now! Well, the nickname we call him: Topher. I love the joy he has when he has accomplished something new!
In math, Christopher is working with learning his colors. We are doing all sorts of "red" things now. Red hearts, red ladybugs, red playdough, finding red clothing in story books. He is counting to 5 and stacking blocks, and doing sequencing with the blocks.
His muscle tone in his hands is quite low, so we are squeezing putty balls, and poking playdough to help strengthen and give better control. Holding crayons and pencils can be a challenge to little hands that have low muscle tone.
Trinity is my little toddler girl. She is busy playing and developing her speech and other skills. When we work with Topher with his speech, she is by his side, saying all the words we are trying to get him to say. They laugh together and fight together. She has passed him in speech, which we knew would happen. In many ways, they are like having twins, they are so close in development right now. I know this will change, as Trinity speeds into the next stage, and Christopher enjoys taking his time and savors the moments.
Thursday, September 29, 2011
The Little Things
I have moments of fear, from time to time, that I am inadequate when it comes to teaching my son, Christopher, who has Down syndrome. I worry that maybe I am not giving him enough of everything that he needs. Yes, I had those fears with regarding my other children, but nothing to the degree that I do with Christopher. And you know what? I cannot give any of my children everything they need. Only God can do that! God is the one who equips me to do everything he thinks I need to do.
I know that fear does not come from God, it comes from the enemy. I have to keep reminding myself of this fact! God has not given me a spirit of fear.
It is hard, especially when all the books and websites say that I should be sending Christopher to special preschool, PT, OT and ST. Who am I? Just his mom, with no college degree, just my little LPN. I specialize in nothing.
But because I am Christopher's mom, I have have a greater investment of love in Christopher, that no paid stranger could ever have. Because of that love, I keep him busy, working on those gross motor skills. I also help him with activities that will strengthen those tiny muscles to improve his fine motor skills. We sing, we talk, we read books, we counts, we play with blocks, we play with flurp and kazoos.
Many of the little things that I did with my other children, without thinking, are now planned out and done with intent with Christopher.
Christopher can now count to five! He is using many signs and word approximations, and actual words. He is learning to recognize a couple word flashcards, and will say and sign the words. Yes, he is learning to read! Little by little!
Most of my children did not read any words at the age of 4 1/2yo. They could speak clearly, though. Christopher can read a couple words, but cannot speak clearly:)
Christopher is not showing any signs of being ready to potty train, he does not enjoy sitting on the little potty. I am hoping as Trinity begins to potty train that he will want to, as well. In the meantime, he continues to wear his big size 6 diapers.
There are times that I think I should see progress each day, rather than looking for progress over a longer span of time. So, as I look back at the last few weeks, I see things that Christopher has learned, or has fine tuned. Things like being able to string noodles, using a big tapestry needle. He could do that for a while, but lately, he has discovered the best way to hold the needle and can quickly fill the entire string.
Little by little, day by day, he is learning, just like my other children:)
I know that fear does not come from God, it comes from the enemy. I have to keep reminding myself of this fact! God has not given me a spirit of fear.
It is hard, especially when all the books and websites say that I should be sending Christopher to special preschool, PT, OT and ST. Who am I? Just his mom, with no college degree, just my little LPN. I specialize in nothing.
But because I am Christopher's mom, I have have a greater investment of love in Christopher, that no paid stranger could ever have. Because of that love, I keep him busy, working on those gross motor skills. I also help him with activities that will strengthen those tiny muscles to improve his fine motor skills. We sing, we talk, we read books, we counts, we play with blocks, we play with flurp and kazoos.
Many of the little things that I did with my other children, without thinking, are now planned out and done with intent with Christopher.
Christopher can now count to five! He is using many signs and word approximations, and actual words. He is learning to recognize a couple word flashcards, and will say and sign the words. Yes, he is learning to read! Little by little!
Most of my children did not read any words at the age of 4 1/2yo. They could speak clearly, though. Christopher can read a couple words, but cannot speak clearly:)
Christopher is not showing any signs of being ready to potty train, he does not enjoy sitting on the little potty. I am hoping as Trinity begins to potty train that he will want to, as well. In the meantime, he continues to wear his big size 6 diapers.
There are times that I think I should see progress each day, rather than looking for progress over a longer span of time. So, as I look back at the last few weeks, I see things that Christopher has learned, or has fine tuned. Things like being able to string noodles, using a big tapestry needle. He could do that for a while, but lately, he has discovered the best way to hold the needle and can quickly fill the entire string.
Little by little, day by day, he is learning, just like my other children:)
Monday, June 27, 2011
Day Out With Thomas
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Another School Year is Complete
We had our homeschool evualtions yesterday, the official end of our school year. Even though I have been homeschooling for many years, since 1994, I always breath a sigh of relief at having all the legal requirements completed.
Our evaluator commented how he is always amazed at how much our family covers each year, all that my children accomplish. I was surprised to hear him say that. I do not really know what others cover, since I don't compare myself and my children to other families. I don't really ask other moms what they are doing.
I need to remind myself to look at the big picture sometimes. I get bogged down with the work of each day that I can easily overlook the fact that each of my children have made good progress. One of my children has made great progress, and has bloomed into a scholar who loves to learn.
What a blessing it is to be able to teach my children. It does not always feel like a blessing in the daily grind of life, but it is a blessing. One of the things that brings me the most satisfaction as a homeschool mom is listening to my children read from the Bible! Isn't that the true purpose of learning to read?
While the children are all enjoying a bit of a break from the bookwork, my job continues. The excitement of planning for another school year is always a pleasure.
Our evaluator commented how he is always amazed at how much our family covers each year, all that my children accomplish. I was surprised to hear him say that. I do not really know what others cover, since I don't compare myself and my children to other families. I don't really ask other moms what they are doing.
I need to remind myself to look at the big picture sometimes. I get bogged down with the work of each day that I can easily overlook the fact that each of my children have made good progress. One of my children has made great progress, and has bloomed into a scholar who loves to learn.
What a blessing it is to be able to teach my children. It does not always feel like a blessing in the daily grind of life, but it is a blessing. One of the things that brings me the most satisfaction as a homeschool mom is listening to my children read from the Bible! Isn't that the true purpose of learning to read?
While the children are all enjoying a bit of a break from the bookwork, my job continues. The excitement of planning for another school year is always a pleasure.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Homeschool Group Field Trip
Our little homeschool group went on field trips yesterday.
We visited Canine Partners For Life. They train service and companion dogs for people with disabilities.
They showed us a video first, then introduced us to Alex, a retired service dog, who now helps with presentations. Then we took a tour of the kennels, where the dogs who are over one year of age, live for one year while they are in training that is specific to the needs of the person they will be partnered with.
Christopher was very excited about seeing the dogs, especially Alex. As soon as Alex came in the room, Christopher sat up and signed and said "dog". He kept talking to Alex, who paid him no attention, until it was the time in the presentation where his owner gave him permission to be allowed to do so. I was imressed how well trained Alex was, most dogs would have been right over licking Christopher, and causing him to no longer be happy about its presence. Alex enjoyed the petting and affection from all of the children.
We had never thought of a trained companion dog for Christopher until now. We had thought of getting a dog as a pet, but never thought about one specially trained. We are now giving this some thought. I read in the newsletter we recieved yesterday how a companion dog can be a good outlet for the extra love and affection that children with Down syndrome seem to have available to give. It can also be a natural source of deep tissue stimulation, that children with low muscle tone need, just by leaning its weight against the person.
It is a lot to think about and we will not be making this decision without doing a lot of prayer and research.
Our group had lunch at a local park. It was great to see them all interact so well, considering the large span in ages. We have children from 16months up to 17 years. I think the older ones enjoyed the swings as much, if not more than the younger ones.
We then went for a tour of the Herrs Food Factory. Ahhh, the smell of potato chips! Our favorite part of the tour was the end, where we were served potato chips, still hot from the fryer! Mmmmm!
Field trips can be a challenge with a large family. Trying to keep track of all the little ones, keeping everyone interested and happy, getting the double stroller though all the doorways. But we managed, and even had a good time doing it.
We visited Canine Partners For Life. They train service and companion dogs for people with disabilities.
They showed us a video first, then introduced us to Alex, a retired service dog, who now helps with presentations. Then we took a tour of the kennels, where the dogs who are over one year of age, live for one year while they are in training that is specific to the needs of the person they will be partnered with.
Christopher was very excited about seeing the dogs, especially Alex. As soon as Alex came in the room, Christopher sat up and signed and said "dog". He kept talking to Alex, who paid him no attention, until it was the time in the presentation where his owner gave him permission to be allowed to do so. I was imressed how well trained Alex was, most dogs would have been right over licking Christopher, and causing him to no longer be happy about its presence. Alex enjoyed the petting and affection from all of the children.
We had never thought of a trained companion dog for Christopher until now. We had thought of getting a dog as a pet, but never thought about one specially trained. We are now giving this some thought. I read in the newsletter we recieved yesterday how a companion dog can be a good outlet for the extra love and affection that children with Down syndrome seem to have available to give. It can also be a natural source of deep tissue stimulation, that children with low muscle tone need, just by leaning its weight against the person.
It is a lot to think about and we will not be making this decision without doing a lot of prayer and research.
Our group had lunch at a local park. It was great to see them all interact so well, considering the large span in ages. We have children from 16months up to 17 years. I think the older ones enjoyed the swings as much, if not more than the younger ones.
We then went for a tour of the Herrs Food Factory. Ahhh, the smell of potato chips! Our favorite part of the tour was the end, where we were served potato chips, still hot from the fryer! Mmmmm!
Field trips can be a challenge with a large family. Trying to keep track of all the little ones, keeping everyone interested and happy, getting the double stroller though all the doorways. But we managed, and even had a good time doing it.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Snow Day!
What does a snow day look like at our house?
We had about 4inches of snow last night. The children got up excited and eager to go outside to play. The local public school district was on a two hour delay.
The children ate a quick breakfast and rushed outside. They needed to rush, since one can never tell how long the snow will last! Although, since it is January I doubt it will go away to quickly. They trampled the snow in our backyard, shoveled half our driveway, tried out the snow scooter.
They came in cold and wet, ready for hot chocolate. I'm not sure which makes more mess, the wet mittens or the cocoa packets.
After that, we settled down with the school books. They did the basics this morning: reading, grammar, spelling, math.
We took a break for lunch and clutter patrol. After that, they ventured down the road to the Amish farm for real sledding. One of the side benefits of homeschooling is the children can go sledding when the hill is empty. No need to worry about bigger children being rough with little ones.
They are back in again, ears and cheeks rosey red in spite of warm hats and scarves. Wet mittens drying and more cups of hot chocolate brewing. More little puddles of melted snow to wet my socks as I walk into my kitchen.
After Trinity is down for her nap we will do history and science, using The Prairie Primer. Our school day and snow day will the be complete.
We had about 4inches of snow last night. The children got up excited and eager to go outside to play. The local public school district was on a two hour delay.
The children ate a quick breakfast and rushed outside. They needed to rush, since one can never tell how long the snow will last! Although, since it is January I doubt it will go away to quickly. They trampled the snow in our backyard, shoveled half our driveway, tried out the snow scooter.
They came in cold and wet, ready for hot chocolate. I'm not sure which makes more mess, the wet mittens or the cocoa packets.
After that, we settled down with the school books. They did the basics this morning: reading, grammar, spelling, math.
We took a break for lunch and clutter patrol. After that, they ventured down the road to the Amish farm for real sledding. One of the side benefits of homeschooling is the children can go sledding when the hill is empty. No need to worry about bigger children being rough with little ones.
They are back in again, ears and cheeks rosey red in spite of warm hats and scarves. Wet mittens drying and more cups of hot chocolate brewing. More little puddles of melted snow to wet my socks as I walk into my kitchen.
After Trinity is down for her nap we will do history and science, using The Prairie Primer. Our school day and snow day will the be complete.
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Typical Day in the Shoe
People often assume I am very regimented and organized. They will often ask me what my typical day is like.
There is no such thing as a typical day. I have goals and ideals, but these are often laid aside to meet the needs of my children.
Ideally, I like for my older children to get up at 7:30am. But there are times their bodies need more sleep.
It is my goal for breakfast to be over and cleaned up by 9am. But this is not always the case. Sometimes, I will have a little one that sleeps in and will need to eat a later breakfast. Or, I will be up throughout the night with a fussy baby and need a few extra minutes of sleep.
We generally begin our school work between 9-9:30. We do our math 1st. My husband likes us to start with the subject that is least enjoyable to the children, and that is math. Once it is done and out of the way, the day goes more smoothly. Another plus, they get to do their most difficult subject while their minds are still fresh from a good night's rest.
We work until lunch time, taking breaks to throw loads of laundry into the washer, or into the dryer, or hang them on the clothes line.
We do our basics in the morning, this includes math, reading, grammar, spelling, writing, handwriting, depending on the child. We also work with Christopher during this time, which consists of playing with toys and games, and singing songs.
We break for lunch at noon. We eat a light lunch, which usually consists of snadwiches. I have called a halt to making other foods for lunch, as it is too time consuming. On occasion, I will allow soup or macaroni and cheese.
At about 1:30 Christopher goes upstairs for a nap. This is when we do our other subjects. This is also when I do some one on one work with my early learners.
Currently, we are using The Prairie Primer. This includes our science/history/crafts/nutrition and more.
Now for the non-typical. I have needed to be flexible for doctor/specialist appointments. Unfortunately, specialists do not have evening and weekend hours.
Also, I cannot plan when one of the children will be feeling extra needy, or need extra help with certain subjects, or is just being uncooperative. So, even though it is our goal to be done with our school work by 3pm, it can be extended til much later.
The beauty of homeschooling is being able to be flexible. To take a day to go to the park for nature walks, go to the county fairs, local attractions, run up to see Daddy at work and take a train ride. It also means we can take a trip to the library and research subjects of interest, learn new crafts. We can make popcorn and watch a classic movie. Or we can curl up and read a book together on rainy days. Or count snow days as PE.
So, what does your typical day look like?
There is no such thing as a typical day. I have goals and ideals, but these are often laid aside to meet the needs of my children.
Ideally, I like for my older children to get up at 7:30am. But there are times their bodies need more sleep.
It is my goal for breakfast to be over and cleaned up by 9am. But this is not always the case. Sometimes, I will have a little one that sleeps in and will need to eat a later breakfast. Or, I will be up throughout the night with a fussy baby and need a few extra minutes of sleep.
We generally begin our school work between 9-9:30. We do our math 1st. My husband likes us to start with the subject that is least enjoyable to the children, and that is math. Once it is done and out of the way, the day goes more smoothly. Another plus, they get to do their most difficult subject while their minds are still fresh from a good night's rest.
We work until lunch time, taking breaks to throw loads of laundry into the washer, or into the dryer, or hang them on the clothes line.
We do our basics in the morning, this includes math, reading, grammar, spelling, writing, handwriting, depending on the child. We also work with Christopher during this time, which consists of playing with toys and games, and singing songs.
We break for lunch at noon. We eat a light lunch, which usually consists of snadwiches. I have called a halt to making other foods for lunch, as it is too time consuming. On occasion, I will allow soup or macaroni and cheese.
At about 1:30 Christopher goes upstairs for a nap. This is when we do our other subjects. This is also when I do some one on one work with my early learners.
Currently, we are using The Prairie Primer. This includes our science/history/crafts/nutrition and more.
Now for the non-typical. I have needed to be flexible for doctor/specialist appointments. Unfortunately, specialists do not have evening and weekend hours.
Also, I cannot plan when one of the children will be feeling extra needy, or need extra help with certain subjects, or is just being uncooperative. So, even though it is our goal to be done with our school work by 3pm, it can be extended til much later.
The beauty of homeschooling is being able to be flexible. To take a day to go to the park for nature walks, go to the county fairs, local attractions, run up to see Daddy at work and take a train ride. It also means we can take a trip to the library and research subjects of interest, learn new crafts. We can make popcorn and watch a classic movie. Or we can curl up and read a book together on rainy days. Or count snow days as PE.
So, what does your typical day look like?
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Homeschool Snobbery
Last Sunday, our pastor spoke on James chapter 2, which talks about favortism. He pointed out different areas in which we can be snobs. We can be social snobs, spiritual snobs, financial snobs.
He failed to mention homeschool snobs.
Those who have been around the homeschool community for any length of time know what I am referring to.
Some homeschoolers seem to think they are better than other homeschoolers because they do certain things a certain way, or use a certain curriculum.
Some examples of homeschool snobbery:
I only use xyz curriculum.
I only use text books and have school at home.
I only use the Charlotte Mason approach.
Unit studies are the best.
We get all 180 days in by April.
We homeschool year round.
My child could read by age 4.
My child graduated at age 15.
I grow all my own food, make my own clothes, bake everything from scratch, bake my own bread, grind my own wheat,etc.
I homeschool, homebirth, work at home, home church, etc.
There is nothing wrong with any of these things. But doing them will not buy you favor with God, and not doing them will not cause God to turn his face away from us. God cares about our hearts. If we are doing these things out of pride and vain glory, we are missing the mark. If we place those who do these things in a place of honor, yet snub our noses at those who don't, then we are showing favortism. We elevate all the good things about homeschooling to a place of idolatry, and those who do them become our gods.
If you enjoy doing all the things I listed, that is fine. But in doing them, lets make certain we are not putting pressure on others and setting goals for them when we have no authority to do so. Let's be certain we do not belittle those who cannot perform to our expectations.
He failed to mention homeschool snobs.
Those who have been around the homeschool community for any length of time know what I am referring to.
Some homeschoolers seem to think they are better than other homeschoolers because they do certain things a certain way, or use a certain curriculum.
Some examples of homeschool snobbery:
I only use xyz curriculum.
I only use text books and have school at home.
I only use the Charlotte Mason approach.
Unit studies are the best.
We get all 180 days in by April.
We homeschool year round.
My child could read by age 4.
My child graduated at age 15.
I grow all my own food, make my own clothes, bake everything from scratch, bake my own bread, grind my own wheat,etc.
I homeschool, homebirth, work at home, home church, etc.
There is nothing wrong with any of these things. But doing them will not buy you favor with God, and not doing them will not cause God to turn his face away from us. God cares about our hearts. If we are doing these things out of pride and vain glory, we are missing the mark. If we place those who do these things in a place of honor, yet snub our noses at those who don't, then we are showing favortism. We elevate all the good things about homeschooling to a place of idolatry, and those who do them become our gods.
If you enjoy doing all the things I listed, that is fine. But in doing them, lets make certain we are not putting pressure on others and setting goals for them when we have no authority to do so. Let's be certain we do not belittle those who cannot perform to our expectations.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Like Christmas in July
Fellow homeschoolers, can you relate? Our order arrived from Rainbow Resource Center today. The children were so excited. Before the box was even opened they were calling "dibs" on things. They were begging to know what I had ordered for them. What excitement and anticipation filled our house!
When we opened the box, we got an added surprise: wads and wads of brown packing paper! The boys were so tickled to discover there was actually enough for each of them to have a piece. Thank-you Rainbow folks!!
While I looked through the new school books, the boys enjoyed outlining each other on their paper and drawing faces on their life-sized likenesses. Are my kids the only ones that get so excited over packing paper? This was almost as much fun as bubblewrap, but much quieter!
I love new school books! The look, the feel, the smell of them. The pages all clean and smooth.
I took some time to highlight some things in some of the books for some of the children. For some reason, some of my children will completely overlook the instructions to take a quiz, unless it is highlighted. My life in the shoe can quickly overtake me at times, and I can easily overlook things to, only to realize several days later that certain things were missed. That is why I am trying hard to organize now.
I have one child, my little worker bee, Sarah, wants to start school today. She thinks the new books look much more exciting than the old ones we just finished. Funny, I think I remember her saying the same thing last summer.
When we opened the box, we got an added surprise: wads and wads of brown packing paper! The boys were so tickled to discover there was actually enough for each of them to have a piece. Thank-you Rainbow folks!!
While I looked through the new school books, the boys enjoyed outlining each other on their paper and drawing faces on their life-sized likenesses. Are my kids the only ones that get so excited over packing paper? This was almost as much fun as bubblewrap, but much quieter!
I love new school books! The look, the feel, the smell of them. The pages all clean and smooth.
I took some time to highlight some things in some of the books for some of the children. For some reason, some of my children will completely overlook the instructions to take a quiz, unless it is highlighted. My life in the shoe can quickly overtake me at times, and I can easily overlook things to, only to realize several days later that certain things were missed. That is why I am trying hard to organize now.
I have one child, my little worker bee, Sarah, wants to start school today. She thinks the new books look much more exciting than the old ones we just finished. Funny, I think I remember her saying the same thing last summer.
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Homeschool Planning
While the children are all enjoying their break from homeschooling, I am busy planning for the coming school year.
We will be using the Prairie Primer, which is a unit study, which is based on the Little House on the Prairie books. I used this with my 2 oldest children many years ago. I look forward to reading through the series again and doing the crafts and home arts with my children. I look forward to reading Bible passages with the children, passages that held special meaning to the real Laura Ingalls Wilder, that were relevent to her life and see how they apply to our lives. It will be fun singing "Three Blind Mice" and "Bean Porridge Hot" with my little ones again.
We will be using Primary Language Lessons and Intermediate Language Lessons, for language arts. Aaron will be improving his writing skills with the help of Wordsmith Apprentice. I also used this for my older ones and they enjoyed it. Beth and Sarah will be using Wordsmith. I have never used this level, so I am eager to see if it is as enjoyable as the Apprentice.
Math is always a toughy. Beth will be doing Keys to Geometry. Sarah wants to do CLE math. Aaron and Seth will be doing Mammoth Math. Seth used this last yr and we liked it, however, it does seem a bit advanced and I try to just ignore the numbers on the front and let them work where they need to be.
Jesse is still working his way through Alpha Phonics. Josh is still enjoying his Rod and Staff workbooks and his marker board. Christopher 3yo is working on his fine motor skills, speech and gross motor skills. (I will blog more on him another time.)
We will be using the Prairie Primer, which is a unit study, which is based on the Little House on the Prairie books. I used this with my 2 oldest children many years ago. I look forward to reading through the series again and doing the crafts and home arts with my children. I look forward to reading Bible passages with the children, passages that held special meaning to the real Laura Ingalls Wilder, that were relevent to her life and see how they apply to our lives. It will be fun singing "Three Blind Mice" and "Bean Porridge Hot" with my little ones again.
We will be using Primary Language Lessons and Intermediate Language Lessons, for language arts. Aaron will be improving his writing skills with the help of Wordsmith Apprentice. I also used this for my older ones and they enjoyed it. Beth and Sarah will be using Wordsmith. I have never used this level, so I am eager to see if it is as enjoyable as the Apprentice.
Math is always a toughy. Beth will be doing Keys to Geometry. Sarah wants to do CLE math. Aaron and Seth will be doing Mammoth Math. Seth used this last yr and we liked it, however, it does seem a bit advanced and I try to just ignore the numbers on the front and let them work where they need to be.
Jesse is still working his way through Alpha Phonics. Josh is still enjoying his Rod and Staff workbooks and his marker board. Christopher 3yo is working on his fine motor skills, speech and gross motor skills. (I will blog more on him another time.)
Friday, June 11, 2010
Homeschool Portfolios
I began assembling our portfolios today. For those who live in states with more user friendly homeschooling laws, we have to make portfolios for each child each yr. Plus, we have to have the child and the portfolio seen by an evaluator. It is a bit of work, but it is fun to look back at the portfolios later.
I am not an especially organized person. But one thing I do to keep myself from having to search for everyone's work at the end of the school yr is this. I have a file folder for each child, in the filing cabinet. It is labeled "Porfolio Possibilities". Each child then puts things into this folder throughout the school yr. Special papers, things from church or homeschool group. Pictures, artwork. Spelling tests. They all go in. As I get pics developed during the yr, I put them in there, too. Then, when it is time for evaluations, all I have to do is assemble everything in 3 ring binders, and make a few notes and captions. It is not hard, just time consuming.
I was in the attic recently and saw the boxes and bins of portfolios form yrs past. Two of my children have graduated, yet their schoolwork is still there.
I hate to throw them out, they contain so many pics and their writing. But I doubt anyone wants a stack of 3 ring binders to lug around through life, move from place to place, shelf to shelf, attic to attic.
This is my plan: Go through the binders graduate for each one that has graduated, and remove all the clear plastic sleeves full of pics, along with their stories and any other special reports, and highschool term papers. Then, put them all together in one big binder. One for each child. It will look more like a cherished scrapbook rather than a stack of papers.
After next week, when the evaluations are over, and I have a bit of time, I will start working on this project. I can hardly wait to present my graduates with these special albums.
I am not an especially organized person. But one thing I do to keep myself from having to search for everyone's work at the end of the school yr is this. I have a file folder for each child, in the filing cabinet. It is labeled "Porfolio Possibilities". Each child then puts things into this folder throughout the school yr. Special papers, things from church or homeschool group. Pictures, artwork. Spelling tests. They all go in. As I get pics developed during the yr, I put them in there, too. Then, when it is time for evaluations, all I have to do is assemble everything in 3 ring binders, and make a few notes and captions. It is not hard, just time consuming.
I was in the attic recently and saw the boxes and bins of portfolios form yrs past. Two of my children have graduated, yet their schoolwork is still there.
I hate to throw them out, they contain so many pics and their writing. But I doubt anyone wants a stack of 3 ring binders to lug around through life, move from place to place, shelf to shelf, attic to attic.
This is my plan: Go through the binders graduate for each one that has graduated, and remove all the clear plastic sleeves full of pics, along with their stories and any other special reports, and highschool term papers. Then, put them all together in one big binder. One for each child. It will look more like a cherished scrapbook rather than a stack of papers.
After next week, when the evaluations are over, and I have a bit of time, I will start working on this project. I can hardly wait to present my graduates with these special albums.
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