This is a challenging time. In the last week, we have seen a wave of countries move into lock-down and Australia is possibly not far away. With most schools beginning to close before the holiday break, many families may find themselves in a position of homeschooling their children. Check out my first blog post (below) with some thoughts on where to begin.
It has been, and will continue to be a huge learning curve for families across the world as they seek to bring calm and peace into their homes during this time of incredible uncertainty, adjustment and sadness. Households are experiencing strained relationships, financial struggles and challenges to our physical and mental health by staying at home. Some of us are confined to small spaces for work, school, meals, leisure etc. These are challenging times and the thought of educating children amongst all of this could be entirely overwhelming.
Take heart parents. May I encourage you, that you are the best person to be navigating your child through these days. However, if we try to replicate school at home, it will only wear us out and overwhelm us to the point of exhaustion, and to may cause upset children.
Let me encourage you to look for the everyday learning opportunities as they unfold and try to connect and learn together as a family. Below, I’ve included five of my favourite ways that we connect and learn together as a family. This is by no means a curriculum to ‘fulfil’ in your day, but a list of ideas that you may want to try and include in your weekly rhythm.
So, here they are:
1. Read, read, read.
Never underestimate the power of reading together with your children. Draw your child close and read picture books, poetry, information books, chapter books and classics. Spend time choosing good quality books that have real characters, who face everyday challenges that your child can relate to and learn from. With libraries closing, many are providing eBooks for loan.
It can be tempting to feel the need to do a structured activity after a story, however I would encourage you to read for fun, enjoyment and connection. If you choose good quality stories, you can let the story speak and just focus on enjoying the journey with your child.
A few of our favourite authors include: Mem Fox, Pamela Allen, Beatrix Potter, Lynley Dodd, Graeme Base, Alexander McCall Smith, E.B White and Colin Thiele.
2. Nature Walks
Being in nature fosters a sense of peace and joy for us! Thankfully in Australia, most of us are still able to get out into nature to exercise and get some fresh air. This is a great opportunity to find a quiet spot to breathe, slow down and engage with the beauty of creation around you. Set aside time in your weekly rhythm to be in nature.
3. Cook
With more time at home, it’s the perfect opportunity to spend time in the kitchen with your child. There are so many wonderful skills children learn in the kitchen – fine motor, science, maths and health. Help your child choose a suitable recipe that they can cook with your help. This might be a time to start making bread as a family, baking some sweet treats to enjoy with a cup of tea and a story, or have your child cook dinner. Your child might like to copy out the recipe and start their own recipe book.
4. Write Letters
As many people are physically disconnected from one another, this can be a time to bring words of love and hope to others through a letter or card. Help your child make a list of those they would like to write to and help them write a letter. Include a picture or photo and post or email.
5. Paint to music
One of our favourite ways to lighten the mood in our home is to enjoy the gift of music. From time to time, we listen to music from famous composers, cover the kitchen table in butcher’s paper and create with the water colour paints. The children enjoy painting to the sounds and rhythms of the music and we end up with a colourful piece of paper for wrapping presents. Providing opportunities for creativity gives us the space to process our emotions and thoughts and leave us feeling calmer.
What will you try in your home first?
Stay tuned for the last five of my family’s favourite homeschooling ideas that you can add to your weekly rhythm.
Hang in there, dear parent! Be confident that you are the best person to be navigating your children through this time of uncertainty. Relax, enjoy your children and remember to make time to care for yourself!
Comments