I love the cheerful but realistic “can-do” spirit here! You’ve described how many parents I know feel. It’s lovely to hear about UK home ed, because it seems so “other” here compared to America where it feels much more common. (No idea if the numbers bear this out.)
Great summary post Catherine! With our eldest now in second year university, I feel much more relaxed about our youngest (11). Keeping your focus on the near-present (rather than 12th grade physics) helps to manage unnecessary anxiety on the parent's part. All the best as you continue on your homeschooling journey in the new year!
Dec 30, 2023·edited Dec 30, 2023Liked by Catherine Oliver
"It’s non-stop, full-on, and depending on your circumstances there isn’t much opportunity for a break. But is that any more difficult than working a full-time job and trying to squeeze as much quality time together as you can into the evenings and weekends?" ----> This is how I've felt with 3 littles at home! But the latter alternative stresses me out even more, so I imagine I won't much change my mind once they're of school age. :)
We've decided not to apply for a space for child 2. After a year of school and term of home ed with our eldest we know which we prefer but your post has reassured me that it really will be ok and I'm not make a once for always decision!
Interesting how the US and UK differ with rules & regulations! I was homeschooled with my 5 brothers growing up, and I just always look back on my childhood with such fond memories...playing in the woods, the field, with the cows, (we had a farm) and my parents probably kept us home so we could do chores and help 😂 I personally homeschool so that my children can have a non rushed childhood, they can learn and play all in one and as hard and demanding as it is..there is so much beauty in that. I hope they look back on their childhood and feel the same way as I did.
This could have been written for me, the deadline is looming! We'll probably end up applying for a place, so we can choose whether to accept it or not later in the year - i.e. putting the decision off as long as possible!
I love the cheerful but realistic “can-do” spirit here! You’ve described how many parents I know feel. It’s lovely to hear about UK home ed, because it seems so “other” here compared to America where it feels much more common. (No idea if the numbers bear this out.)
Great summary post Catherine! With our eldest now in second year university, I feel much more relaxed about our youngest (11). Keeping your focus on the near-present (rather than 12th grade physics) helps to manage unnecessary anxiety on the parent's part. All the best as you continue on your homeschooling journey in the new year!
"It’s non-stop, full-on, and depending on your circumstances there isn’t much opportunity for a break. But is that any more difficult than working a full-time job and trying to squeeze as much quality time together as you can into the evenings and weekends?" ----> This is how I've felt with 3 littles at home! But the latter alternative stresses me out even more, so I imagine I won't much change my mind once they're of school age. :)
Brilliant post, Catherine!
We've decided not to apply for a space for child 2. After a year of school and term of home ed with our eldest we know which we prefer but your post has reassured me that it really will be ok and I'm not make a once for always decision!
Interesting how the US and UK differ with rules & regulations! I was homeschooled with my 5 brothers growing up, and I just always look back on my childhood with such fond memories...playing in the woods, the field, with the cows, (we had a farm) and my parents probably kept us home so we could do chores and help 😂 I personally homeschool so that my children can have a non rushed childhood, they can learn and play all in one and as hard and demanding as it is..there is so much beauty in that. I hope they look back on their childhood and feel the same way as I did.
This could have been written for me, the deadline is looming! We'll probably end up applying for a place, so we can choose whether to accept it or not later in the year - i.e. putting the decision off as long as possible!