Dec. 6, 2005 - Relaxed vs. Structure in our Home School!!

I have been reading the Moore Formula and re-evaluating my approach to home school.  I have tried to relax and let learning happen.  I have set up my home so that things are easily accessable to my boys.  I have attempted conversation with them to spark their interest.  I have made suggestions to them without forcing the issue, regarding academics.  For my youngest, only six, this has really worked well.  For my oldest, 10, it has been a total flop!!  He hasn't done a darn thing in two weeks.  

Mind you he has played well with his brother, spent quality time with the daycare kids, mopped my floor, cleaned the bathroom very well and even attempted to rake the leaves in 11 degree weather.  But no school!  He hasn't even sat down at his desk (the one he begged for for months).  I asked him today what was up?  Why he hasn't shown any interest in doing much of anything but play.  He remarked that I hadn't made him or mentioned school so he assumed we weren't doing school in December.  I then explained that I had hoped he would take my lead and do things on his own.  He then stated to me that he wasn't sure why he didn't 'want' to do school.  He understands the importance of education, in fact he wants to be a pilot more than anything!  So, I guess it is back to assigning tasks.  Have I been structureing his environment for so long that he is not capable of doing it on his own??  Have I spoon fed him educationally for so long that he has no intrensic desire of his own?  He just doesn't sit around. This kid can make believe for hours at a time and never complains of being bored.  He doesn't rely on television to entertain him and in fact gets tired of sitting in front of the tube.  This is even true with video games.  I have never had to really monitor his time with the playstation...he gets tired of it and moves on.  It isn't a crutch.  He would rather be outside and with his friends.  But academics...he tolerates it but doesn't seem to enjoy it.  Why?  Have I done something??  or is this just my boy?? 

Dec. 6, 2005 - All very good questions.

Dec. 6, 2005 - Untitled Comment