Well, as you would expect, my life is pretty much all about starting the school year off well. Having all three kids home this year is more enjoyable than I expected. I guess there's something about having three kids to teach that makes it feel very "schoolish". They're also older now, and the work is harder...... more prep. time for me.....more field trips to consider....and a tighter schedule to follow. But I like it. There's something about being on a schedule that motivates and gives me energy. I'm pleasantly surprised at the kids positive attitudes, and we're moving along quicker than expected. I've had school years where it took many weeks to get things moving, and into a real schedule. In the past it has often been a struggle to motivate the kids. But thankfully not this year.
12 things that have helped our school year start well:
1) Carefully chosen curriculum that is more independent for the kids, yet still top quality stuff.
2) Prayer
3) Organization: Teacher's books and answer keys in binders, well-labeled, baskets for each kid's books.
4) Many hours spent figuring out our schedule.
5) Getting the kids up at 7:30 every morning, chores and breakfast, and seated by 8:30 or 9:00.
6) Saying "no" to many homeschool activites, choosing only the things my kids really wanted to do, and that would benefit them. Most of these things are in the late afternoon or evening, so our days are free to learn.
7) The principal (hubby) and I came up with the rules, and went over them with the kids.
8) Family devotions and prayer each morning....sometimes short, sometimes long.
9) Set up a demerit system for discipline, a reward system for work completed.
10) Prayer
11) Laughter
12) Love
2 comments:
Wow! You stick to a strict schedule! My goodness.
It was interesting to see what you do in a day on the previous post!
Glad your school year is going great! Ours is too. I am enjoying it more the older they get.
Check out what we did today. I put it on my personal blog.
www.homeward4.blogspot.com
Janet
Good stuff. We've found it immensely helpful to start with a nice "contract for learning" that The Boss and I created. And the boys brainstormed a list of "acceptable break activities" so when I suggest a break they are still doing something good for them and/or the family. And prayer. Can't do much without that, huh?! Got your note, just been a whirlwind week and can call ya soon to chat. Sooo much to catch up on :)
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