A pep talk to myself (feedback welcome):
I am just getting a handle on the idea of our home education time being "sacred". Ideally, between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. in my home should be sacred, uninterrupted time where my children and I focus on learning. I say "ideally" because inevitably there are some interruptions. First, there is the phone. Most of my family and friends do not call during those hours or if they do, they know I probably won't answer. I am tempted at times, knowing it will be a "quick" conversation just to answer it and check it off my list so to speak. More times than not my quick conversation transforms into a 20-minute correspondence that could have been received later on in the day.
Secondly, I should exercise self-control and schedule my computer time for before or after school hours (except today when my mom comes : ) It is so tempting to check something real quick throughout the day but again that usually leads to a 20-minute diversion.
Lastly, there is the possible participation in events or service that is worthy of consideration. This is the most difficult for me. A friend needs me to take her kids for an hour (which historically turns into a play day for my children) or there is another event that is scheduled during those hours, i.e. service project, etc. Sometimes these things could be used as school material, but unless I can honestly say my children will learn from them, do I sacrifice our sacred time for them?
I suppose it is a case of "good, better, best". There are many good things that I can be involved in, but if it comes at the price of the best things, then I am putting the most important priority (in this case my children) second and sometimes last. That is inconsistent with my goals and dreams. I choose the best part!
Once again, I'm impressed by you. Well, this is something I am still trying to get worked out here. I'm feeling a little self-conscious here because this is not my strong point and we only spend a good 3-4 hours a day on learning. Is that too little time? To me, I feel like with my 2 kids, it's been enough time to fit in all the important learning time. And I struggle at times letting our schedule be a little too flexible, but can't bare to let any of the other important things go. It's a definite work in progress for me. I hope!
ReplyDeleteAmanda, first of all I don't think there is a right and wrong way to schedule your school day. You are able to give pretty undivided attention to your two at home with the others at school. It really all comes down to the inspiration that we each receive as a homeschool moms.
ReplyDeleteI'm actually still processing all this. I think my post was me thinking out loud and trying to find out where I stand. For me, I definitely need to keep the time with my children sacred but also keep a provision that allows us to take a different course occasionally as inspiration dictates...I'll let you know if I change my mind!
You are cool and I love you!
ReplyDelete