My blogging friend (and real-life friend), Michelle, and I have a spring tradition. Sometime in February or March we start talking plans for the coming school year. We're both planners and thinkers, plus we find inspiration through curriculum talk and trading ideas.
Admittedly, when she brought up the topic last week I had to say, "I haven't thought much about it yet."
That's not really true. I've given it plenty of thought, but I feel uninspired and a little scared so my thoughts have not transformed into plans on paper. I have time-- months worth of time, really. There are at least two months left before this school year is complete and the next one doesn't start until August, but it's unusual for me. Most of the time, I'm excitedly sketching out a plan in advance because there are so many fascinating topics I want to cover and books I want my kids to read.
Why the fear this year? Next year, I will have 5 kids in school-- ranging from Alaine entering kindergarten all the way up to Gavin in eighth grade. That's more than a little overwhelming to me. I already feel a little stretched with four, juggling pre-algebra and phonics on a daily basis. I want to do this homeschooling thing well, but I constantly question whether I'm giving each child the attention and help they need. I worry about this every year. Yes, every year. I'm a type-A personality times ten!
I also worry about gaps in my kids' education. Gavin only has five years of school left. What if he gets to twelfth grade and we realize we forgot something?! I know that is a largely irrational thought. Learning is a lifetime pursuit. But, I still have a kid who struggles to spell our last name (let alone the words of a spelling test) and another several who very slowly do their math facts on their fingers. Gaps in their education is a very real fear.
It comes down to trust-- trust in the Father who is leading us this year and will continue to lead us on our homeschool and life journey. I know I am not adequate on my own, but He knows what is best for each one of my children. He will give wisdom and strength, patience and guidance.
I have started compiling a few ideas in my head, considering some learning topics that might work for us. Also I have tentatively started looking up some new products (to us), so I'll be back later this week or next to share a few.
Have you started thinking about your next homeschool year? How many kids will you be teaching?
Do you have any homeschool fears? I'd love to pray for you!
Admittedly, when she brought up the topic last week I had to say, "I haven't thought much about it yet."
That's not really true. I've given it plenty of thought, but I feel uninspired and a little scared so my thoughts have not transformed into plans on paper. I have time-- months worth of time, really. There are at least two months left before this school year is complete and the next one doesn't start until August, but it's unusual for me. Most of the time, I'm excitedly sketching out a plan in advance because there are so many fascinating topics I want to cover and books I want my kids to read.
Why the fear this year? Next year, I will have 5 kids in school-- ranging from Alaine entering kindergarten all the way up to Gavin in eighth grade. That's more than a little overwhelming to me. I already feel a little stretched with four, juggling pre-algebra and phonics on a daily basis. I want to do this homeschooling thing well, but I constantly question whether I'm giving each child the attention and help they need. I worry about this every year. Yes, every year. I'm a type-A personality times ten!
I also worry about gaps in my kids' education. Gavin only has five years of school left. What if he gets to twelfth grade and we realize we forgot something?! I know that is a largely irrational thought. Learning is a lifetime pursuit. But, I still have a kid who struggles to spell our last name (let alone the words of a spelling test) and another several who very slowly do their math facts on their fingers. Gaps in their education is a very real fear.
It comes down to trust-- trust in the Father who is leading us this year and will continue to lead us on our homeschool and life journey. I know I am not adequate on my own, but He knows what is best for each one of my children. He will give wisdom and strength, patience and guidance.
I have started compiling a few ideas in my head, considering some learning topics that might work for us. Also I have tentatively started looking up some new products (to us), so I'll be back later this week or next to share a few.
Have you started thinking about your next homeschool year? How many kids will you be teaching?
Do you have any homeschool fears? I'd love to pray for you!