At first, I thought I was nuts for trying to start things after ending a week long stomach virus, which hit everyone in the house. But things really went downhill when everyone got sick again with something else!
So, am I a very dedicated homeschooling Mama? Or just insane?
I meant to post something on Friday, but spent most of the day locked away in my bedroom, trying to nurse myself back to health.
But now we're finally on the mend!
Our first week was great but also tough as we were dealing with a lot of weak tummies, a new schedule, a very sick little boy, and then a very sick Mama. But we made it!
Morgan took over on Friday and was able to get everyone going. She is a real blessing to our family and earned herself an extra peanut (see below).
My goal is to update the blog weekly, each Friday. So grandparents, feel free to hound me. :) And I am currently under the influence of a drug or two, so this is just up because I promised some certain special people that they could see their grandchildren in photos by the end of the weekend. Please excuse any crazy spelling and such. :) Thanks!
All the children start off the day with daily chores. Jared's first job of the day is to set the breakfast table. BTW Jared really is happy in this picture--he just kinda goes overboard on expressions when we tell him to smile. LOL
One of Morgan's chores is to load the washing machine.
One of Elena's chores is to match and sort socks! This is a BIG job for a family our size!
These are the elephants we have used for years! Each child has the opportunity to earn a peanut each day. And if they go above and beyond the call of duty, they may earn an extra peanut. On Friday, having earned five peanuts gets ya an extra special prize. As long as a child earns at least one peanut that week, he or she will get a little reward.
The children were introduced to their timeline, learned about Leif Ericson and the Vikings, and the meaning of names.
The children enjoy creating their notebooks. They are making a special US History and Geography notebook (which are red, white, or blue) and another notebook for all other subjects. They'll store their worksheets and notebooking pages for safe keeping.
Morgan's favorite subject is Word Building (spelling). English and Spelling are her first "independent" subjects.
Elena working on a page from her workbook. After she finishes a lesson in her workbook, she does a lesson on the computer for reinforcement.
Jared using his ruler to connect the dots.
Even Camden enjoyed hanging out with his siblings. He loves sitting with us during our opening activities and next week will have his very own curriculum.
Since we're kicking off a year of US History, we learned about our Pledge of Allegiance, and a little about our flag, including our colors. So, we had a special snack (strawberries, yogurt, and blueberries--red, white, and blue.)
Note: This was the day everyone was FEVER FREE and acting normal! Also, our first day for Library Lessons, which is a little group just for homeschoolers! And see? Homeschoolers also enjoy backpacks. :) These came in very handy for carrying supplies and books to and from the library! (Thanks Papa, Grandma, and Ma Dunn!)
I was impressed when Morgan immediately knew where to put her "x" (aka her hometown)on her US Map.
Jared did a great job on his US map. I was so proud of him for finding Arkansas so quickly.
Elena showing off her United States map. Elena wasn't at all worried about Arkansas. The only state she wanted to know about was Alabama. LOL
During some free time before recess (meaning Elena finished her work early), she and Camden decided to play dress-up with Mama's clothes. I think Camden managed better in my high heels than I usually do.
Jared and Elena built nests during recess:
Jared creating his name "tag":
Morgan showing off her name bracelet:
Elena showing off her name bracelet:
Camden making (or eating?) his own name bracelet:
Morgan's Notebook page for Leif Ericson:
Our science experiment on Thursday. What will happen when an egg is placed in salt water and plain water? The egg in the salt water did float somewhat (we ran out of salt).
