So, I've been considering myself a homeschooler for the past 2-3 days even though my son is technically still in preschool. Today we ate a bunch of Easter candy, the boys played outside in the rain, I did some cleaning. We read out of the Childcraft Encyclopedia from 1964 and read a chapter of Little House in the Big Woods. We watched 2 episodes of How It's Made, where we learned how they make breakfast cereal, one of Jarvis's passions. From this he learned what a vegetarian is, which he found quite shocking. "But...meat is GOOD for us!" I have to agree!
One episode of Dexter's Laboratory (which unfortunately isn't as educational as it sounds, haha. It mostly just makes my son act obnoxious.) And my kids watched The Miracle Maker for about the 5th time since Saturday. I'm amazed that my Scooby Doo, Spiderman loving boys are so obsessed with it. It's a beautifully done Claymation film but I have to believe there is more to it than that. They both talk about Jesus non-stop, and ask tons of questions. I think I am going to get them The Good and Evil comic book that nogreaterjoy.org sells. They'll probably go crazy over it!
I told Linus I am his teacher now and while we were reading he very sweetly said "Teacher, after we read can I do my craft?" I told him yes, after his nap. My mom is a children's librarian and she sends home the leftover crafts from story time. We did a mosaic Easter Egg. Later Jarvis got out his "Homework" in the form of a workbook my mom got him. The day before he showed NO interest in it whatsoever. But without any prompting from me he practiced writing his letters, counting, etc. I sat down and we talked it over together. He really enjoyed it! I think I am going to keep these books around for him to discover on his own.
Jarvis reminds me so much of me...he does NOT want to be bossed about school, but he loves to learn on his own and will ask for help, but don't offer it! Don't interfere with his boundaries. I remember feeling pushed as a child and it making my skin crawl. I think unschooling will be a great fit for both of us.
Comments
Mar. 28, 2008 - Hey!
Posted by luvs2bemom
Thanks so much for the comment! It helps to know I'm not alone. I enjoyed reading your blog, I'm going to add you as a friend. Keep in touch!
Belinda