Life has been a little busy lately, but in a very very good way. For many reasons, I have decided to homeschool Claire and William for the rest of this school year, at least. We'll see what next year brings. As a product of public school and as an educator, I never ever thought I would homeschool my own children. And if you talked to me a few years ago, I still never thought I would do it. But I am. I'm so glad we can learn, change, grow and it's OK. I don't always have to think one way. I love being able to change my mind.
We are two weeks into it, and so far it has been a blast. I know that weariness, frustration, and boredom will come into the picture from time to time, but I'm not worried. That's life. Why do I love it? To name a few reasons:
-I love being able to study The Book of Mormon with the kids every morning followed by a family prayer - what a wonderful way to start our morning with no stress of hurrying off to school
-I get to choose what the kids are learning
-We can spend as long as we need on an area before moving (ie long division with Claire)
-So much more time for enriching activities every day! (art, music, swimming, sewing, baking, etc)
-When we take field trips - we have the place to ourselves!
-I get to read with and to the kids more than a few minutes at bedtime - we read and read and read
I could go on and on. But one of the most surprising aspects of homeschool that I really did not expect was how well the kids get along now. I was worried because before, when they would get home from school, there would be bickering, etc., with all three. That has basically stopped on its own (with a little help from me). The kids are in a good mood most all the time. The after-school stress is gone. It's really amazing how that happened on its own.
And finally - I am finding so much enjoyment from planning and teaching everyday. I thought I would go crazy having the kids home with me all day, but it's quite the opposite. We have fun and I enjoy their companionship. It's all been a very pleasant surprise.
