We have a pretty standard routine around here for bedtime. After showering and getting dressed for bed, the boys come to the kitchen to pick a snack. While they are eating their snacks, Daddy reads to them. We try to pick books that are going to be enjoyable for both of the boys (and us!). My husband is an expert at reading aloud. He always does the voices perfectly. I enjoy story time just as much as the boys do. I'm usually cleaning up the kitchen and listening in the background. This tradition began YEARS ago when my daughter (now grown and married) was still at home. It will continue as long as they want to take part. You're never too old to listen to someone read a book to you.
We are currently making our way through the Little House series by Laura Ingalls Wilder. These books are wonderful for many reasons. One of my favorite things about this series is learning how they made do without technology. Our material blessings become so much more amazing when they are compared with what the Ingalls family had. As usual, any deep thinking leads me to...thinking how it fits in to homeschooling!
When I think about what life must have been like for homeschoolers of the past...I am blown away by how easy it is for me! I'm not talking about ancient history either. I'm talking about parents who homeschooled their children a mere 20 years ago. What would I do without instant answers via Google? Where would I find, compare and purchase curricula? Where would I find a video on how to make a wet mount slide for the microscope at 1am so I can be ready to teach my children how to do it the next morning? Most importantly...where would I be able to network with friends around the country and globe who are also teaching their children at home?
I am so thankful that technology is available to allow me to teach my children with ease. But, you know what? Even if it wasn't...they'd still be able to learn! Even if we lived in a time before the library was just a 15 minute car ride away. Even if we lived in the middle of Kansas with neighbors miles away. Teaching happens when questions are asked and answers are found. Sometimes we have to work together to find an answer. Sometimes we even have to admit we don't have all the answers. And sometimes, a little wondering is good too.
2 comments:
Have you watched any of those PBS shows where modern folks are put in homes/situations where they have to live just like people lived in "the olden days". I've loved them.
I've read articles online, but not seen any shows. I'll have to look some up!
I do occasionally think about selling everything and 'living off the land'. I think I could take all of it except the lack of running water. THAT would kill me. I like to be clean. AND I like to flush. :-)
Post a Comment