Well, we're just completing our 4th week of Mrs Mama's Classroom... and each week I'm getting more insight into my dear Hunter and what motivates him to learn (I'm pretty sure this is a life long process). I am feeling a bit more comfortable now, however, for having a framework to work around. This 'framework' is in the shape of our weekly calendar of activities so I know how to work the other lessons in and amongst these. I know most people's "framework" is their philosophy or curriculum - but that's all semantics, eh? Now that we've got a schedule, I am learning how to fit the lessons and 'formal' learning activities into our day. So here's the visual of what our weeks look like:
I was really trying to figure out how to visually display our activities and schedule so the kids (and I) could keep track of where we're going and what we're doing throughout the week - and mostly to show Hunter that the lessons aren't going to last all day long! (Because of course, an hour seems like all day to a 5 year old, no matter how many mini-activities you include). I was rather proud of myself because I had originally wanted to buy something to do all this... but managed to create something cool using materials we already had at home.
So, we have "School" time scheduled. In this time we do our 'formal lessons'. I've decided to do a "Letter of the Week" to start out our first half of the year. With this as our theme for each week, we're looking at a Biblical Principle and a memory verse then books that reflect Hunter's interest according to that sound (the handwriting, sight words, and maths are all just following the order from our Study Ladder program). So last week was "S" so we got books about space and looked mostly at stars and the sun. This week is "T" - so of course we're focusing on trains!!! And for the first time I've had him do a lapbook (I'll probably post that another time when he finishes it) all about Trains. It's been fun. Anyway, this seems to be working (week 2) so we'll stick with it until we've gone through the alphabet.
Between "School" we've got other learning opportunities: Kindy and Ballet (for Helena), and gymnastics, swimming and soccer for both of them. Here's a glimpse:
Tuesday mornings the kids both do a gymnastics class. Coach Abe is very patient and this week spoke out a key word that I believe is the principle that gymnastics will teach my children (regardless of how long they do this): BODY CONTROL. Both Hunter and Helena are very fast and very strong, so learning how to control their bodies will help them excel in any other athletic activities. And let's face it, control is a vital element in every area of life (hmmm, guess that's why "self-control" is considered a fruit of the Holy Spirit - because it just doesn't come naturally). So though I am confident Hunter is not built like a professional gymnast, this is going to really beneficial.
On Wednesdays we have swim class. Helena's class is at 11.30 (so we get a full morning of school) and Hunter's class is 3.00. Originally I thought we could use the gap to go places, see people, run errands, go on field trips - but heck, after two really long Wednesdays I've concluded that we should just come home and do lower key things in between - like reading or science experiments or art projects with the occasional visitor. Helena is loving her class and really getting into it. Hunter has been enjoying his as well. His teacher has somehow motivated him and thankfully he's got just boys in his class so he's at least mixing with boys his age.
Then Monday, Tuesday and Thursday Helena goes to kindy so Hunter and I have some time together to do more reading, writing and errands. It's working out pretty well so far.
The bonus is soccer on Saturday! Hunter LOVES it!!! LOVES it! He scored goals, helped up a fallen teammate and high-fived other players all in his first match. Helena on the other hand is a bit more timid... but she'll catch on.
So... that's our framework to work around... and then we've got the odd day out... a sick boy who just wants to hang out and watch Chuggington all morning (well, it's train related, right!?!).
