We’ve had an unusually rough day here on the homeschool front: crying, temper tantrums, and slamming doors seemed to be the norm rather than the exception. It was a frustrating day; one of those days that makes me question our decision to take on the task of educating our boys at home. After all, it…
For several weeks now, I have watched my usually creative, imaginative young boys wander aimlessly around the house. I have listened to them whine and complain they have nothing to do, and beg multiple times in a day to play Wii or Gameboy or to watch a movie. When given suggestions of unplugged activities they…
photo by HappyHeartKE Ever tried to hammer a square peg into a round hole? It can be done. Not easily, and certainly not without damaging the peg, and likely the hole as well, but it is possible. Ever heard of a child referred to as a square peg? I have. In fact, I’m homeschooling one. …
Summer: long days, lazy days, no school, splashing in the pool, racing through the yard, no school, reading… WAIT… I thought you said no school! For some, reading is synonymous with long summer days, with time spent visiting far-off places, meeting new friends, having new adventures… but for others, reading is work, it’s a struggle,…
Our boys were told long ago that we feel very strongly that they have absolutely no excuse for saying, “I’m bored,” given the number of books, toys, and games stored in our home, and that if we hear them saying they’re bored, we will find a large garbage bag and send them off to…
Ryan is in Williamsburg with friends this week. He’s having a wonderful time and doesn’t seem to be missing his Mommy one little bit… Meanwhile, back at home, I am enjoying my one-on-one time with Connor immensely! I mean, honestly, look at that grin, how could I NOT enjoy spending time with that little character?!…
One of the biggest challenges for a homeschooling parent, or perhaps for any parent, is being able to distinguish a child’s fleeting interest from a developing passion. Homeschooling parents rely heavily on their children’s interests to provide new and interesting learning experiences, but is there a time when interest is enough and parental meddling can…
Just three short months ago, I listened in dismay as our seven-year-old son announced vehemently that he never wanted to ice skate again. From the moment he had taken the ice two years before, he was a natural. He had phenomenal balance, picked up new moves quickly, skated with confidence, and above all, was having…
Our first day of the 2008-2009 homeschool year went so well; our second day, well, it never actually got started. The day itself started well enough. We drove to the local elementary school to meet Ryan’s new speech teacher (he attends speech through the public school system for 30 minutes a week) and when…
Memorial Day is about remembrance and honor. It’s about grief and gratitude.So today we remember with honor, grief, and gratitudethose who have paid the ultimate sacrifice.It is also a day to remember to pray regularlyfor those who are in harm’s way on our behalf.”– Pastor E. Stanley Ott The Memorial Day Service at our church…