Homeschool learnings: Settling in

Officially it is our third year homeschooling and for some reason the whole endeavor this year feels more solid and secure.

It feels like we are plants - the first year settling in after planting, the next year building strong roots, and the third year SURGING forth with abundance - a verdant explosion. It feels like we are emerging from a very grounded place.

I mean, yes, Covid certainly may have derailed plans and whatnot… but it feels as though the family is finally settling into this routine and way of life in a way that thrills.

School during the summer and on the weekends? For sure if it means we can take a chunk of time in the warmth to learn a new language and play in the ocean - while New York State slogs through February.

My commitment to Fists of Anger to curtail some of my Cranky Monster’s most exuberant tendencies that often emerge during lessons - check.

Sitting down with the calendar and figuring out how to do 36 weeks of the 3rd grade curriculum and ending next year in late May - check.

Choosing a beautiful new purple color for the chalkboard - check.

The Bean beginning to understand that she can work independently at the SAME time as I teach Dragon - check.

Biweekly homeschool hellos at the local playground - check.

Joining The Call of the Wild & Free homeschooling group and tapping into their support and knowledge - check.

Meeting new friends and neighbors in the homeschooling world - check.

Being curious about what adventure this year will bring us - check!

Both Dragon and Bean sitting down together at the table so they get used to receiving instruction at the same time - check.

Reaching out to the homeschooling community to meet other families - check.

Unpacking the notion that learning only happens in school - check.

I promised I would wholeheartedly embrace life to repay the gift of my new bone marrow. Thank you family for joining me as we embrace this life of adventure together.

*Here is a wonderful summary of the rules and regulations of homeschooling in New York State for those of you curious about what is involved in this way of life.