What I have learned so far:
- I have a 3 hour window (interruptions included) to get things done. If it takes longer than that, it's a lost cause. Ady would not survive a full day kindergarten schedule. Her capacity to learn is over by noon.
- There is a fine line between mom and teacher. Yes, I am always mom, but in the classroom I have a dual role. I am having a hard time with both. Yes, it's ok if she sits in my lap when we are reading, even that's not something that would go on in a typical school -- I love that part. But, it's NOT okay to roll all over the floor during the Bible lesson. Also, I think I get a lot more "resistance" about certain lessons than a typical teacher would. It's vital that she retain her classroom skills in our non-traditional setting. She will need them again soon.
- Although we had tons of social interaction during the summer, we are a little lonely now that all our friends are back in school. We may need to get involved in another weekday activity -- if it's not enough for me, it's not enough for her.
- Our curriculum is extremely challenging in Science, World Cultures, and Language Arts, but not in Math. We are using Horizons, and I probably did not do enough research on it. I just purchased what came with the Sonlight Core package. We have decided to work through our math more quickly, and I will purchase more when we are done.
- We do not get anything done when Hunter is in the classroom. Luckily, we have the flexibility to work around him. Instead of starting our lessons immediately after breakfast, we do our chores first and begin when Hunter takes his first nap.
- The lessons being taught outside the classroom are just as vital as what happens inside of it. The bond being formed among Ady and her brothers right now is invaluable. No, they don't always get along, but they are getting to know each others learning styles, strengths, and weaknesses. Ady and Cade are able to facilitate learning between each other, their imaginative play is constantly ongoing, and they value their time together much more. When I dropped Ady off at dance last week, Cade was so concerned that we were leaving Ady there. Even though I reassured him we would go back to get her, he just wanted to stay and watch.
- Some days, we just aren't feeling it. Luckily, the 1:1 classroom ratio allows us to stay so far ahead that skipping a day here and there will not put anyone behind.
- Although I never took our time at Metro for granted, I questioned whether paying $7000 for Kindergarten was worth it. Without question, it is. What a job our teachers and administration have! I have a new found appreciation for what they do each day -- what a difficult job!
- Cade has an unlimited television capacity. Typical boy! He could sit in front of that thing all day if I'd let him. I can't wait until it cools down, and we can do more things outside. I am a little limited with what I can do with him, he can only pay attention for so long. When I'm busy with Ady, he has a habit of sneaking off to watch TV. I joke that he's on a "TV binge", but I do my best to limit his intake.
- Our whole family is benefiting from this experience. We have so many stories to tell Daddy when he gets home! The boys also get to nap regularly (and completely). I have not had to wake a boy up from a nap at all this year! Ady gets so worn out, that she naps most days too! I love seeing those "light bulbs" turn on when a new skill is mastered, and feel a huge sense of accomplishment when the day is done.
