Last year's routine isn't working anymore!   I knew that having a baby would make school a bit more interesting.   I just hadn't anticipated how much more interesting it would be!     Aack!  Suddenly, school is taking a lot longer, and it seems we get less of it done!  I need to figure out a whole new way of getting schoolwork and housework done in the midst of nursing and caring for a new baby!

 

Another aspect that has changed is that I need to spend more time with dd10 on some areas in which she struggles and needs extra help.  One of the things recommended for her was to work through an intensive phonics program.  I have put her and dd8 in the same level, and expected to work with the two of them at the same time.   I quickly found out that this really needs to be done individually.  And, it is  time consuming.  Ds6 is working at level 1, which takes less time, but still needs to be done individually.

 

The other things we are adding for dd10 also take a bit more time, so that in itself would require an adjustment in routine.  But, having to stop mid-stream every couple of hours to feed the baby is really throwing me off-track.  Toss in meals/snacks, and regular household-type things that need to be done, and I'm finding myself spinning wheels and getting sidetracked way too much.

 

My plan for today is to sit down and chart out some possible ways of getting things done.  I'm thinking of a quasi-schedule that would give me a framework to follow, but one that is flexible/adaptable to the non-scheduled needs of a new baby. 

 

I've got to figure out a way of doing this that doesn't involve me having to get up any earlier than I already am, too.      I'm struggling with lack of sleep, and early morning seems to be the point at which the baby relaxes and really sleeps well.  Thusly, I sleep well in the morning, also! 

 

I've already whittled school down to the essentials for the time being.  My kids love science, but we aren't getting to that right now.  I figure we can slowly add these other things in as I adjust.  So, surrendering to the situation and doing the best I can seems to be in order.    

 

Forging ahead,

me

 

 

 

 

 

Posted by Bahamahomeschooler

on the new little one. I remember the days of the school and new baby juggle. You can do it. Keep on Keeping on.