With our official homeschooling year coming to an end soon, I once again find myself thinking back on our year. What the kids have learned, yes, but more importantly what I have learned. Each year as we pray about decisions for our upcoming school year, I like to evaluate what we have done as well as WHY we have done it.
Each year it seems to come down to one main thing:
The Blessings!
Our time spent together. I know some people talk about how they can’t wait to send their children off, but really, I love having mine around. No, that does not mean every minute of our day is fun or easy, but it does mean that at the end of each day I am thankful for the time I have had with them.
Sibling Bonding. My kids are close. There is no doubt in my mind it is because they spend so much time together. Through the years they have learned a lot about conflict management as well as how to love others even when they seem un-lovable. They know each other well and they love each other despite that knowledge.
Freedom of Religion. God is welcome in our school at any time. I love that we can do math one minute and read the Bible the next. I love that we can stop and read the Bible when we need some time in the Word.
Opportunities to serve. Since we are not tied to someone else’s calendar we are free to drop what we are doing to help others. I pray we are teaching our kids to serve others by cooking meals, visiting friends, and doing life with those whom we love.
Travel! While many people have to follow a school calendar, we follow dad’s calendar. When he is off oftentimes we are off as well, and where he goes, we go. Lucky him!
Well rounded children. Yes, people still ask me if my kids are socialized. Yes, I assure you they are. Not with 20 like-minded kids their own ages however, but a wide variety of people of different ages, cultures, races, and religions. They know how to carry on a conversation, how to speak politely to others, and manage not to embarrass us too often.
Specialized Academics. I love choosing curriculum each year. There are so many things to choose from and so many good choices. What is even better is that I choose according to each child. What are their interests? What are their learning styles? I make decisions based on the individual, not a state checklist.
I could go on and on, but you get the point.
Blessings!
Beyond blessings! Gifts from a God who make this path a reality for us!
