the elusive schedule

Creating a workable schedule is one of the biggest challenges of homeschooling.  It's difficult because a huge benefit of homeschooling is the flexiblility you have.  But at the same time, children thrive with structure as well.  So it's up to me, as mom, to order our days together.  I've tried several different schedules, but finally feel like I'm in a good groove now with Kai. 

Initially, to make our current schedule I sat down with Kai and we listed all the things he'd like to include in our day - this was his chance to say what he would like to happen.  For instance, he wanted to have a time set for soccer, for helping with Koa, for play, snack, free reading, etc.  Those things are important to him and it means a lot to him to be able to see that on his daily schedule.  And that's just fine!

Also, to make it less intimidating, I lumped together all of his seat work and called it "Table Time" on his schedule.  I did this instead of listing separately:  math, writing, and other required work.  I also added "Read with mom," which covers read-alouds, history and science alternately. 

Where other schedules have failed me, this is working great for us.  It's just relaxed enough to retain the flexibility and freedom we love, but has enough structure to make sure we cover our required stuff.  It has enough things that Kai loves and chose for himself that he's willing to do the difficult "table time," which is where our battles were coming from. 

I feel like this year I keep adjusting and readjusting - learning, observing, making changes.  Slowly but surely finding my way through this first year of homeschooling.

Gratitude

7. Healthy children
8. Fresh coffee to start my day.
9. children quietly playing with leggos.
10. Even though my house is a complete disaster there is hope that today I can tackle the loads of laundry and get things in order.
11. Our portable DVD player broke (we don't have a tv) forcing me to live life without the option of movies to fall back on. This pushes me to be more creative, read more books and engage more with my children.
Here's to a new week! I feel cloudy and foggy from taking Benadryl last night, but this coffee should kick in soon. A new week awaits - another chance to do things well and learn new things. I'm grateful.

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