Back again today to tell you about a few resources we are using in our homeschool, as we struggle to achieve a workable routine for my three children. As many of you know, it has been rough (for more details, check out this post) but I am happy to report fewer tears and tantrums this week, which I am considering a HUGE victory.
This week, I have been able to see God's hand in all of these struggles, and I am so appreciative of the way He sustains me, bit-by-bit, day-by-day, by what I call my "ravens"--those perfectly timed tidbits of encouragement, refreshment, and suggestions--to direct me on my path.
My first raven is a wonderful little reading app, put out by Reading Rainbow, recommended by my friend Kerry. This app allows your child to place up to five ebooks in their virtual backpack about subjects they chose, and they can be read aloud to (or read themselves) while I am working with another child. I am growing more and more passionate about reading aloud to my children, thanks to Sarah MacKenzie and her Read Aloud Revival blog. Her podcasts have also served as ravens to provide me with encouragement when things get tough! I'd highly recommend her blog and also her latest book, Teaching from Rest, to all of my homeschooling mama friends!
Another raven has been this simple spiral notebook system, also recommended by Sarah MacKenzie. While I am not a huge fan of making pre-determined lesson plans or checklists (I find it leads to frustration and discouragement; instead I prefer to write down what we actually end up doing in my planner), it has been helpful for everyone to know what they are supposed to complete each day, resulting in less interruptions during school time. (Added bonus: it serves as a visual for my younger learners of how much is left to go!)
One thing that we have started to do is a morning basket. While I am still tweaking with what to include in our basket, how much time to give it, and what active participation needs to look like (I have children who LOVE it and HATE it), I love the concept of this relaxed and meaningful way to start out the school day. A great resource I have found regarding this is Pam Barnhill and her Morning Basket podcasts. My favorite episode to date is the one about how to make math fun--check it out here.
It was also such a blessing to go on a field trip this week (thanks Sarah!). Oftentimes, I find that a raven comes in the form of an invitation to do something out of the routine. While I usually hesitate to deviate from daily plans and schedules (so much to do!), whenever I do stop and take the kids to a local historical site, science museum, or aquarium, it is always a great experience and we end up learning a lot.
Lastly, a raven came yesterday in the form of a bible study advertisement on my Facebook feed. Kim Sorgius, author of the not consumed blog, has written several bible studies stemming from her own discouragement over the sibling rivalry, bad attitudes, and disobedience in her home (preach sister!). The one I am planning on starting with my children is My Brother's Keeper, which is a 4-week indepth study on sibling relationships in the Bible with the goal of discipling your children to love, value, appreciate, and enjoy these relationships within the home. I will definately keep you posted as we delve into this. Another great study we are currently doing is The Dig: Proverbs, which has prompted biblical discussions about hard work, diligence, wise words, and more.
Well, I hope that these "ravens" will serve to be a help for you in your homeschool, as they have for mine! Many blessings for a soaking rain and a hearty harvest for you and yours!
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