Make a list of all of the things your child knows--don't limit yourself to the "schoolish" kinds of things.
Whenever possible, take a few minutes to listen in on the neighborhood kids as they play. Are they quoting Shakespeare or figuring out the velocity at which they are hurling rocks or balls? Are they using physics equations to calculate the momentum necessary to make it uphill on their bicycles? If you asked them who Alexis de Tocqueville was, would they know? Can they recite the first 2 chapters of Genesis from memory? Of course not!
On the other hand, is your child happy? Is he interested in the world around him? Does he ask you questions, and do you do your best to answer him and encourage him in every way?
If so, you pass the test with flying colors! Relax and enjoy.
I worry that I do not do enough and when the week is done and I look over the lessons, I know in my heart that it has to be enough but there is doubt always. It is our first year of homeschool and I am very nervous about the eval. later in the year. I don't want boys who are quoting Sheakspeare, however if they are able to carry on a great conversation with people, I will be thrilled. And happy, my kids are so happy since leaving public school. No more ADD meds for Nathan and no more riducule and bullying for Matthew. They are at peace and that is what matters most to me. The state however is another story......
How wonderful that your boys are able to enjoy their childhood again!
This is such a ministry you are in--and it is a God-thing--so it must be blessed! You have Him to help you and give you wisdom at every step. Don't let your heart be troubled--you may be surprised at how easy the evaluation may be. Get in touch with other experienced homeschoolers in your area that have dealt with this before, they can give you tips and help you not to feel so overwhelmed. (try to avoid those that try to be "correct" and wring their hands in anxiety--I'm sure you will be able to spot the type--sort of like women who tell all the horror stories of childbirth and give you with willies as compared to the calm voices that encourage you to relax and trust God for a wonderful outcome).
As with any government agency, what you would think they would look for and what they really look for are probably two very different things. Beauracracies rarely make any human sense, so you probably just need to hit the areas that they are currently concentrating on. You just need a little tutoring on how to speak their language--remember, "wise as serpents, gentle as doves"...
Thank you so much for such encouragement... I think I tend to worry too much....
I am so glad that I *stumbled across* your blog and I look forward to visiting often!
Blessings,
Christine
Untitled Comment
5:55 PM, Oct. 1, 2006
.. Posted by Anonymous
FYI. It can be helpful for Homeschooling. I heard that one of Brain Quest's originators is creating an online DAILY newspaper for kids 8 to 10 in the US. The name is Daily 10. The website is under construction. They are supposed to be live in late November. I enjoy reading your blog.
Sarah.
