And....we're off!

It's that time again. The beginning of a new school year. We started this week along with the government schools. I have heard from a few friends who homeschool as well that they are overwhelmed. Start slow. You don't have to keep a schedule. Do a little this week and then add something next week. Let the kids pick the subjects they like and start there. You don't have to fit it all in at the start.

The key is keeping the kids interesting in learning.

My youngest got to pick three subjects this week that he wants to work on. He is a 5th grader. He choose reading, math, and vocabulary. Next week we'll ad another subject. In September our coop classes begin and he will have one day a week at a local charter school taking sculpting, piano, and a fitness class. We will also add a club called Knights of Freedom where they read a biography of a famous person and have discussions, and they each take turns in charge of activities and they get to learn new games and be boys.

My middle child is starting Middle school and she got to pick 4 subjects to start this week with. She choose reading, math, vocabulary and grammar. She found out that Middle School isn't that much harder. (Hard doesn't mean impossible. It means just a little more concentration and effort). She will add writing next week. In September she will start a Shakespeare class. She will learn the language, write reports, play games, attend plays, and next semester put on a Shakespearean play. She will also go to the local charter school once a week and take sculpting, art, and violin.

My oldest is once again attending Open High School of Utah and is a Sophomore. It is an online High School. She is her class Secretary, and will be on the yearbook staff as well. This year the student government have a class with a few assignments and they will get credit for their service. I'm excited about that. We like to get as much credit for our efforts as possible. With hopes of getting a scholarship, leadership is a very important part of the applications. She is taking Algebra II, English 10 Honors, World Civ., Biology, Graphic Design, and Health. Next Semester Graphic Design will be replaced with Photography and Health will be replaced with Yearbook.

Here is a great article to read as to put life in the right perspective. We only have our kids at home for a short period in our lives.

Enjoy the Journey!!!

http://ldsmag.com/lds-church-updates/article/6111?ac=1