Aug. 21, 2007 - Reading, reading, reading.
Just returned from a beach vacation where I consumed The Well-Trained Mind. Just trying to hit all the education books that keep popping up in my "research" of homeschooling. Finished Dumbing Us Down also. That one left me in a paranoid, infuriated state. Am now reading the pro-reading book Honey for a Child's Heart.
Of course, I have plenty of other books on my list. I am trying to get my husband to read some of these, but he's a little reluctant. He doesn't do as much reading as I do.
Academically, I have decided to follow the Classical methods for the time being with Spike. I'm not sure exactly where he is in reading. . . he read a beginning reader to us last night. But I suspect that many of the words were his "sight words" (not sure what is in his "sight vocabulary") So I will be doing phonics with him, moving him along at the pace that suits him. After I feel he is getting a good grasp on the reading, I will introduce some handwriting, probably in the Zaner-Bloser vein.
There will be math. Some science, art and music for fun. And as always in our family, he will be getting doses of history as we all go about learning together. Just yesterday, we were at the local National Park (for fun) exploring the Revolutionary War for the umpteenth time.
Physically, I'll be working with him on personal hygiene habits as well as having him take swim lessons and play in the Y soccer league.
Emotionally, he will continue to be loved unconditionally and trained/disciplined by us, his parent! At home, he will most definitely receive acceptance.
Spiritually, we'll continue to introduce him to Jesus, through prayer/Bible Study/church worship/ministry/service/etc. , as we have since he was born. It is my hope that Spike (and all of my children) find that they are each significant to their Lord and Saviour. . . and that they develop personal relationships with Jesus.
I'll be praying fervently for direction and conviction for our next steps.
I still have yet to put into place exactly why I need to be homeschooling my children - my reasons and philosophies, if you will. I have "gut" feelings as well as concrete reasons, but it all seems rather jumbled and a little unclear. Some days I feel "gung ho", and other days, I wake and think This is crazy. I can't teach my own kids!
Just today, my oldest told me he wished to be homeschooled. I asked him why. He responded that he missed me during the day while he was gone to school.
Comments
Aug. 21, 2007 - Congrats and welcome!
Posted by kcmyworld
If you think long and hard about it, the whole thing is a bit intimidating! But (to me) so is the thought of everything they might be exposed to our learn in a different learning environment. I'm a big believer in knowing why you have decided to home educate. I recommend writing down the reasons. Then when the bad days come (and yest, there will be bad days from time to time) go back and read the reasons. If they are still valid, back to the task we go. No wavering during a weak moment just because of difficulties or emotions!
Praying for you and wishing a great year for you
Robin
Aug. 21, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by pearlibuttons
Thank you, Robin! I appreciate your experienced advice on the matter. I definitely need to be able to answer that question. . .
Emily
Sep. 2, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Anonymous
I came across your blog randomly. It caught my interest because I can feel your torment. You sound a lot like I've felt over the years. I sent my kids to public school even though it never felt right. Throughout the course of last year, I decided to homeschool our middle child (9). Our oldest (12)wants to remain in PS - I'm allowing it for now despite his academic short-comings. I doubt our youngest (19 months) will ever go to public school. I understand the self doubt and uncertainty. Two years ago I didn't think I could ever pull off homeschooling. Even after I decided to give it a go I felt so overwhelmed. As things fell into place one at a time we all felt a huge sense of relief - things finally feel right and it isn't nearly as difficult as I thought it would be. I work part time (at our school LOL) and come home when my husband leaves for work. I didnt think I could handle a part time job, a 19 month old and homeschooling, but it works out. The best part is the release of all the stress that I felt when my son was in public school.
I think my oldest would have been happy to homeschool a few years ago before he established strong friendshipsat school. I have some regret about not doing this earlier.
Anyway... I hope things work out for you - many blessings upon your family.