Some of y’all have asked how the homeschooling-thing is going.
And, since I’ve got a whole three whole months under my belt, I thought I’d give a quick update.
The truth is, it’s going great. Really great.
I am honestly surprised at how much Asher is enjoying homeschooling. But even more, I am surprised how much I am enjoying homeschooling.
Because, you see, it was me I was most worried about. I just didn’t think I could do it. At least not well.
In the past, I’ve homeschooled several of my kiddos for various and sundry reasons. Victoria when she was in the 3rd grade. Zach when he was in the 4th. And, well… it was exhausting. And frustrating. For everyone involved. I just put way too much pressure on myself, and my unfortunate pupils. We limped through the end of those two years, hoping to never crack another book.
So I was hesitant to even consider homeschooling Asher. I know he’s pretty bright and wouldn’t require a lot of effort to teach the basics. But still.
Eventually, homeschooling became the only option for Asher. So I decided to try to learn from my mistakes and ease up this time. Even if it meant *gasp* not finishing everything on time.
He still has to get up at 5:30 – that would just be not fair for him to sleep in – and has breakfast with his brothers and sisters. Then, once the kiddos get on the bus, he gets to work. Usually alongside me while I have my quiet time. Most of the curriculum we chose is self-led, and he’s been doing a fantastic job to just get it done on his own. I have noticed that he gets a lot more done of the subjects he loves (math!) and a lot less of those he doesn’t love so much (writing), but that’s okay for now.
He’s also had a chance to do a lot of cooking. And grocery shopping. Going to the library. Reading his Bible. Asking big questions. Helping with barn work. Pitching in with the littles. Real life stuff that, I think, is going to make him into a better husband and father one day. I can’t say that homeschooling is the best decision for all kids, or even for all of my kids. And, of course, there’s no telling what the future holds. But for Asher, for now, it’s absolutely the best decision. He’s got his smile back. And I am one happy mama.
For once, I’m so glad I was wrong. Thanks to everyone who offered advice and encouragement when we were getting started. It’s been a huge blessing to us.
So glad it’s going well! 🙂 I’m looking forward to homeschooling our kiddos next year!!! 🙂
So happy it’s going well!!! Love being at home with my kiddos!!!
As an aspiring homeschooling mom, posts like this are such an encouragement to me – thanks for sharing some of your life and your heart here!
So glad it is going well for you and Asher!
And while we are on the subject of Asher- wow- he has a nice big foot!
My hubby has a 12 but and our oldest got close with a 11.5- 12 but each one after that has a smaller foot! I was certain they were sucking the life right outta me- maybe I was right??
Blessings to you and your homeschooling!!
Glad it’s working for y’all – that’s what it’s about. Like you said – not the best choice for everyone – but for those it works for it’s the best choice of all!
hugs – aus and co.
Your success with Asher is so encouraging to me! I mentioned before that we are having similar struggles with my oldest. We have reached the end of our options as well and I find myself both excited and dreading the idea of homeschool. But, of all of my kids, he is the one I feel like I *can* teach and he will thrive in the home environment. When you wrote “He’s got his smile back,” that is exactly what I pray will happen for my son. I miss it!
I will keep praying, for both of our boys.
Glad it’s working well with you. Homeschooling is awesome…and sometimes I too put pressure on myself and end up frustrating the kids…why do i do that? Our best days are when I’m not worrying about finishing a certain amount of stuff or worried about this and that…
I am just THRILLED that it is going well for y’all.
My best friend homeschools here in Australia, six kiddies at home 24/7. She is awesome! The kids have done really well. She suggests (often!) that I should do the same… but like you – its not about whether the kids could do it – its me. And quite frankly – your initial attempts with Victoria and Zach – are exactly what I envisage!! So my kiddies stay in a lovely Christian School, not far from home. I don’t love everything about the school/education – but I reckon it’d have to be a million times better than me!!! So glad its going well – live and learn, hey?!
YAY for homeschooling!! We’re on year 2…love it.
Congratulations! So glad it is working out.
Wow that is awesome to hear! What a blessing! Living in China our options are very limited and I have zero teaching ability. So my very amazing husband has taken on the task of homeschooling our oldest. Which is the worlds greatest blessing to me! I hope it gets better and better for Asher!
there is NOTHING better than having your child’s smile back.. <3
Yay! I’m glad it is working out so well…and so glad he has his smile back!