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May. 8, 2006
Homeschooling on a Shoestring Part 1A: Gymnastics and Such
How
can a homeschooling family on one very tight income afford to do the
little extras like gymnastics, ballet, karate, or...? I have three
suggestions for inexpensive or even free access to training in at least
the beginning levels of the things that interest your children.
The first taste of such things for our family came through our local
city recreation program. We have lived in several towns, and all have
offered some sort of community education or recreation program. Most of
these classes are short, lasting from one session to 8 or 10 weeks, so
it is a good way to get a taste of something before making a long-term
commitment.
Generally, these courses are fairly inexpensive,
and often scholarships are available for resident families who cannot
afford the tuition. Don't be afraid to take advantage of that money. My
sister once encouraged me by sharing that as we are a working family,
and as we will one day have an empty nest and our taxes will help
someone else in a similar fashion, there is no shame in accepting help
while we are under the full load of child-rearing.
A free way
to taste a variety of activities is to co-op with one or more other
families. Perhaps your friend studied ballet, but has no patience with
messy projects, while you would consider yourself a clutz, but enjoy
doing arts and crafts with children. Choose a span of weeks to get
together on a given day and time. She takes part of the children to an
appropriate space to work on beginning ballet techniques, while you
take the others to the kitchen table for block printing, or collage
making, or.... By setting a specific duration for these sessions both
of you are able to evaluate how well it is working before deciding to
continue or not.
Next time I will share the third idea for
providing beginning experiences for your children. This one
provided a much needed outlet for me, as well.
*******
Thank you, Father, for the joy I see in my children's faces as they try
out new things. Thank you for the many opportunities you have afforded
us over the years. And thank you for this venue to share those ideas
with others.
Amen
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Posted by ClassicalMamma 
May. 9, 2006 - You have a wonderful way with words!