I can hardly believe little Caterpillar has begun the 4th grade! Where does the time go?
We have made some amazing changes around here, and one of the major ones is the 'way' in which we do school! Before we had used some great curriculum, don't get me wrong, yet much of it was 'workbooky'... meaning I gave some explanations, and then off he went to complete the assignment. Checking this box, filling in that blank, circling this answer... writing a few sentences here or a paragraph there. Caterpillar was at his desk, and Mommy at hers. Then back to the table again for some more lesson explanations, and then off to the next thing.
At the midway point of last year, I began noticing alot of "Whatcha' doin' Mommy?" or "Come sit with me Mommy?"... "Read one more chapter Mommy, pppllllleeeeeaaasssseee!!!" He had been doing great, reading his lessons, working hard, etc... and excelling! But something was missing for him, missing for me, and for US!
I scratched my head. I pondered. I observed. I began making many mental notes and writing things down. I googled. I researched. And I PRAYED! And Prayed! And Prayed!
After several weeks, I began rethinking our schooling methods. I realized that Caterpillar was excelling academically, but could reach such greater potential by implementing some different methods and techniques. We enjoyed manipulatives, yet when to fit them in. Games were fun, but there wasn't enough time. He wanted to read more books, do research. He wanted more read-aloud time as well. I wanted deeper explanations, and connections throughout our curriculum and to Christ. And fun projects and crafts... there were many great intentions, but they happened less and less... as we were filling in more and more blanks!
Then I discovered Heart of Dakota! This amazing curriculum has changed our schooling tremendously! It has been a God send and a breathe of fresh air! Best of all... we are only half way through our first week!
If you feel something tugging at you inside, take the time to listen and explore what it is. You just might be amazed at what you may discover! It is going to be an amazing year! Can't you just tell by this cute and happy face???!!!
4 comments:
I'm so glad you found HOD. This is our 3rd year using it and we love it. Adorable picture!! :)
We haven't started HOD yet (start next week) but I know EXACTLY what you mean. Last year it was basically just get it done and move onto life for us. I decided that my oldest needs more of me when it comes to school and I am going to try my hardest to give him that attention while I can (and while he wants me to) so HOD is going to be a perfect fit. So glad you found it also!
Aw! That is just precious. So glad you had a wonderful week. Love the music too.
Great post! Glad you're off to a good start. :) We like lots of hands-on, mom-involved schooling here, too.
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