I had big plans last year to write about my homeschool journey. Those plans were derailed by job changes, busy school schedules, and just life in general. Transitioning to my husband working from home – which started in my schoolroom until we turned half the garage into his own office – was quite the transition. For everyone.
But, January is the month for new beginnings. So I’m starting again. I’m starting with the letter “A”. “A” is for “Available”.
One things I really love about homeschooling is how “Available” I am to my kids and my kids are to me.
1. Available to experience their first reading success – it’s just as good as their first steps when they were toddlers.
2. Available to talk about what they think of history – you’d be surprised with what my 7yr old can come up with
3. Available to watch as they discover something fascinating in science – and often make a mess in the process
4. Unfortunately, I’m also available to clean up the mess from science
5. Available to see them create their own art – the creation process is way more interesting to me than the final product at their age
6. Available to just sit down and talk, or let them play for a few minutes break if we’re having a bad day
7. Available to see them use the math they’ve been learning – it all started with counting out eggs from the fridge drawer
8. Available to teach them fun things like cooking – and why we do not set raw eggs on the edge of the counter so they can roll off and splat on the floor
9. Available to take them to a museum for a hands-on learning day
10. Available to watch an older child teach a younger child – there are so many things (like counting by 2’s) that I’m not going to have to teach my 2nd born because the first child taught her for me
If you homeschool. What’s something you love about teaching your kids?
My favorite thing about homeschooling is not having to deal with the bureuacracy and demands that come along with having a child in school. After 20 years of having kids in the school system I have been to so many meetings and signed so many folders, etc. etc. that is is a big relief not to have to do those things with my youngest.
I honestly can’t imagine having to keep up with all of that!
I am an educator. I didn’t home school my kids, but if I had to do it over, I think I would have. I love that you get to watch your children learn.
I loved your article. I am an elementary principal and people are always surprised when I support homeschoolers. I don’t know why they think like that, we all want the best educated citizens! If you believe in learning styles, then you have to believe that some learn best at home. And, I do.
Yes, it’s all about where your child is learning best.