Why we homeschool

      So what does our "typical" day of homeschooling look like? Well I guess that is almost like asking what do you eat every day. It always varies, but here is a little idea. 

      The kids slowly came downstairs help themselves to breakfast. Often I come down to the house smelling of grilled cheese sandwiches, a messy kitchen and dining room, and for the most part, satisfied children. After davening my son has been checking the news and then may pick a history documentary to watch before his official classes begin. Depending on how dreary the winter weather is, he often enjoys bringing a cup of tea to his class. I spend time with the the other children and daven, have a snack (or breakfast number two) do our math, play a little, read together (this includes parsha, stories on Yom Tov and pretty much everything and anything educational), sing, listen to story and music CD's, depending on how messy the house is we may do an arts and crafts (although today was a trip to the library instead), laundry, try to clean up (today was clean up the mural my toddler so proudly made using black (washable) paint all over the walls, window, table....ok, I will stop there, talk, play... and the list goes on. 

                                                                                                             Photography by Mendel B

      We began homeschooling with some pretty basic goals.

 To have an enthusiasm and a love for learning, and to be very much a part of what they were learning. I wanted to share in their excitement of learning.

To see the kids play happily by themselves and with each other. (With the exception of a remote control helicopter and race car, to date we do not own battery operated toys.) 

To be comfortable and content in their own skin. To have a healthy sense of self worth and value.

 I was looking for a more relaxed environment at home for our family. To have more opportunities for quality family time. More time to spend with the kids and to just plain enjoy each others company. 

To be able to work more on character and Midos and to instill in them a passion and a love for Yiddishkite. 

And last but not least, to have more time to work on our relationship with each of the children.  

                                             

Creating large "hail stones". We spoke about the hail that Hashem withheld in the sky and later let it come down during the times of Yehoshua. The drama of large hail stones coming to life!                                          

Photo by Mendel B

Below: Doing Math-U-See

                              
                                                                   

                            Below, early fall. No, we didn't have to worry about bedtime and homework.