Ah, Freedom
I was one of “those” Moms. I confidently uttered the words, “I could never homeschool my kids.”
From where I stand now, as a Mom that loves every aspect of our homeschool family life, it is easy to look back and see why I (and many other parents) feel this way. It is automatic. It is assumed that you would recreate a brick and mortar school experience, at home. Boy, that does sound awful! Thank you God for the path that I am on, and for the lovely people that have taught me otherwise. There is so much freedom in homeschooling.
I look forward to holidays, like Easter, where my boys and I take a break from other academic studies and fully immerse ourselves in the hoppin’ good time of learning something seasonal.
Mini Units from Gather 'Round
As a homeschool family taking an an eclectic approach, our tool box incorporates varying philosophical approaches and curriculum.
For these seasonal and short lessons, I truly love Gather ‘Round’s mini units. These mini units are comprehensive with readings, activities and supplemental suggestions. They range in the length of time required. My experience has been a range from one to two weeks in length, depending on pace.
Gather ‘Round’s curriculum approach really embraces the concept of learning, as a family. The majority of their lessons are developed to be shared across multiple ages and then have age appropriate lessons to be completed, individually, but still together. This also means (and this is what I really look forward to) I can revisit these lessons with my children, annually. I can’t wait to see how these ideas will develop as my children continue growing and learning. This repeating curriculum also saves some money.
Buying Options
Gather ‘Round provides buying options. Remember freedom? That may be the most coveted facet about homeschooling, amongst homeschoolers. Just speculating there.
In support of that freedom of choice, as well as varying budget allowances, Gather ‘Round has printed and digital options for purchase. With print (sorry if this is super obvious) you buy and received printed books bound by spiral. With the less expensive digital options, you purchase the data and print what you need, in the way that you choose. I have used both options and see varying benefits both ways.
Supplementation Allowed
As any eclectic homeschool Mom would, I do supplement this learning time with other modes and materials. In the picture above, my boys are completing a Gather ‘Round suggested activity that supported one of their lessons. We made craft tambourines and had a great time with it too. They really followed through by ending with singing and dancing. Craft supplies are essential in the younger years of homeschooling. Don’t have time for Hobby Lobby? Amazon can deliver a variety pack to your door!
In the picture below, I worked in my own craft/learning experience based on my family ethnicity. I am Hispanic and in the area I was raised we celebrated Easter with “cascarones.” This was the first year, I taught my boys how to make them. It feels more labor intensive and they were able to do this all themselves with only verbal direction.
Quick note here: This crunchy momma did use an artificial coloring kit and I probably sneered the whole time as I watched my boys handle the liquid poison. But they weren’t eating any of this! Life does require balance, after all. Make exceptions where you can. Don’t beat yourself up about it.
The Thing About a Good Time
What’s the homeschool takeaway, above all else? Have fun! Especially in the younger years. It is proven science that children’s minds learn better when at play. While you’re at it, memories will be made and strong bonds will be forged.
