Hello, last night as I went to bed I was thinking about this post, and for me, another way to overcome obstacles while homeschooling is to be creative.

No, I am not talking arts and crafts creative, though that certainly has its place in our homeschool. I am talking about how to creatively cover the 3R's when doing actual bookwork will not fit in the schedule on a day when there are lots of obstacles in your way.

What constitutes a math lesson? There are many hands-on ways to learn math. One of our favorite ways is to bake. But if we have errands and appointments take us away from the house, we can count things alongside the road. We can review math facts. There are lots of ways to do math without using a book. We also can use math if we need to do some shopping. I am trying to teach my oldest child how to calculate percentages off when an item is on sale.

What constitutes a reading lesson? We can read labels on things. We can read road signs. We can play I-Spy with ABC's. We play license plat BINGO. For my little ones, just singing the ABC song is review for them. The older children can read maps and directions for me while I drive. We can also listen to great literature with books-on-tape.

How about writing? The children can help me make a list for shopping and check it off while we gather the items. They can take puzzle books along. The little ones like to take crayons and paper. If we are going to be outside, they can do some nature journaling.

The lists are endless. You can truly do a lot of school on days when you just can't seem to get the books out. I would love some comments with ideas on how you are creative on those busy days.

Have a blessed day! Tami

04/08/06 - editing to add a link to part 5 in this series

http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/Tami/114871/