Back to school is here again! Oh boy. In my last post I shared that we are attempting (again) to homeschool the older boys. On a scale from 1-10 my confidence level is about a 2. I know I should have the feeling of optimism, wearing the proverbial homeschool mom-cape as we begin a fresh year, but I think it’s lost somewhere in the hamper. I sound (and feel) like a failure before we’ve even begun. So, why not put them in traditional school? Well, the boys have been hoping to be homeschooled every year since we stopped (3 years ago). It just hasn’t been logistically prudent though…until now. It’s really at their request that Jim and I made the commitment to give it our very best and make it a family/team effort. That part is exciting. I’m just concerned with fitting in all the curriculum between my work schedule, Karolina’s preschool, Gussy, Jim’s job and all the other daily demands.
We have strategized and prepped like crazy though, so it’s not for lack of planning, I think it’s just the fear of the unknown. We have another snag that is stressing me out slightly, and I explain it in this video (complete with bad lighting and bad filming for your enjoyment).:) You can view it here:
We are really hoping the final pieces of the puzzle will fall into place this week. In the meantime I’ve been trying to build a nice reserve of helpful articles, tips, and inspiration to have handy. Things like “Creative Back to School Traditions” and “Anatomy of an A+: A Look Inside the Process of One of the World’s Most Efficient Studiers” . I also ran across some cute homeschool humor. Although we are still newbies, this rang true to me, and I couldn’t help but giggle:
Must Be Homeschooled If…
asks what grade you’re in and you’re not sure.
sometimes go to school in your pajamas.
till 9:00 am on school days, but get up early on Sundays.
birthday is an official school holiday.
favorite activity is reading.
a movie means you’ll have to write a report comparing the film to the book.
up as historical or literary characters for Halloween.
get science credit for going to the dentist or doctor.
place to study is outside, under a tree.
get nervous on the first day of school.
bully you ever run into is your big brother.
unaware of the current fads, fashions, and slang terms.
no idea what rock bands are currently popular.
only nine students in your class – but all of them are your brothers and
sisters.
extra credit for cleaning your room.
Linda says
I just want to encourage you and remind you that one of the best hallmarks of homeschooling is flexibility. You don't have to answer to a school's version of a schedule, you make your own. And so what if it doesn't look like my homeschool, or anyone elses?! If homeschooling is what you are supposed to do then it will happen. Remember that the internet is a great resource, we use it a lot. (one of my favorites is http://www.spellingcity.com!) I will mention you in my prayers, and happy homeschooling!