Like many, today is our first day back to the “grind” following the holidays. We’ve had just over two weeks off in our home. In those two weeks we have put on our lazy pants and have chilled. Too much snacking, too much TV and not enough movement. This morning I am hopeful that our school time will be “on point” and not hindered by our lack of activity as of late.
I am taking some advice from fellow homeschooling mommas to help us ease back into our daily routine. As this week is quite busy, we are going to take advantage of our few days that we are home bound. Today, fortunately, is one of those days. I’ve decided that today is pajama day. We get to stay in our PJ’s all day. We are not going into the day with full force. We are taking it easy, and having a little fun. We will do Reading and Math, as assigned, but Science, Grammar and Spelling are going meander off the path slightly. I have added in some entertaining videos and captivating experiments that both the kiddos will enjoy. I’ll admit when I filled out my planner this weekend and I went “hog wild”. Every subject was filled in with copious amounts of assignments. Even the specials had an over abundance of work . What was I thinking? Noah would look at me like I grew two heads. After careful consideration, I did a little restructuring.
Reorganizing our space also took priority. I did this on Saturday. We have what we lovingly refer to a “scloset“. We do not have a school room since we never used one when we did have one. Some days we sit on the bed, sometimes the dining table and if the weather is cooperating we will take it outside. Our “scloset” holds all our books and supplies, neatly and out of the way. The last few weeks before the holidays we took to throwing everything but the kitchen sink in our limited space. I threw away old papers, sorted and filed work for Noah’s portfolio and I restocked supplies. I also gathered all the curriculum that just wasn’t working for us and put it out of reach. Our space is now ready for the remainder of the school year.
Our extracurricular activities, Tae Kwon Do and Ninja Warrior Classes, started back last week. That helped with the transition back into reality. Especially since we had to add in a couple of extra appointments this week. Tuesday, we will take our schoolwork on the go. Taking grandpa to physical therapy, followed by a cardiology appointment, means our day is full. I planned around those activities knowing it was already going to be a challenge. Wednesday, our CO-OP group will meet at the Library. Noah and I are both looking forward to getting back to CO-OP time. However, this means creative planning had to be done to ensure we will not fall behind in our regular courses.
The best advice, which was given by several mommas, was to “Give yourself grace.” It’s a transition time for the whole family. Careful and creative planning will help with balance and harmony. However, grace will enhance the outcome.
To our homeschooling family and friends, I wish you the best “Back to School” week ever. Remember, take it easy and give yourself grace.
Take care of you,
Kim
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