Summer School

We have been taking it easy for the past month. We finished our first grade curriculum at the end of April. We've been doing a unit on Canada since then, with math and Bible included in everyday. The further we get into summer, the more relaxed our school time has become. Gabriel seems to think that since the high school we work for is finished, so are we. He's in for a big surprise tomorrow morning. Then again, he may not realize we're still in school. Reading books and playing games is just part of a fun day, right? By mid August we should be back into more structured studies.

There is a reason for my year-round school philosophy. My children have a strong need for routine. Although a year-round schedule increases the retention of information, my biggest concern is keeping my sanity. Last week, for example, we only had one day of school work. With extra family in town, the graduation festivities of several family members, and the wrap-up of a school year in the dorm, keeping routine was next to impossible. Half way through the week, people began to ask if my kids were tired. I'll say! They were tired of not knowing what was going on. They were tired of feeling insecure. As a result they were grouchy, rebellious and down right hard to get along with. (I am soooo ready for tomorrow!) Year round education allows us to keep a routine in our home that provides the kids with a secure environment and makes my day more peaceful.

In mid-August, we will officially begin a new school year. Despite my desire to branch out on my own, I purchased another curriculum kit. I chose to stay with the company I've used since Gabriel was in kindergarten. My Father's World really is a quality program. (I will spend more time explaining this in another post.) This year we will use Adventures in My Father's World,be a year of American history. I am very excited about the books we will read and the projects we will do through out the year. I've had the books since May. I've gone through each one several times and have prepared a shopping list for supplies. I can hardly wait to get started!