Public schools in Michigan can’t start until after Labor Day, but as homeschoolers, we can set our own schedule! So, yesterday was our first day of learning together for this school year.
We have two in school this year; Grace is in second grade, and Caleb is in kindergarten. Although, to be completely honest, Caleb started kindergarten this past winter. So, he’s already halfway through his math book. 
The dynamics have changed a little bit this year, too. Ava is getting more mature, and is able to sit and do some preschool activities while we work. Jaden, on the other hand (and I mean the OTHER HAND!!!), is more active and crazy than ever. He might be the biggest challenge to our school sanity this year. I REALLY need to work on sit time. Like REALLY REALLY.
And I’d like to make some activities for him to work on as well, like these busy bag ideas. We’ll see. Anyway, on to the pictures!
Here’s our cute little caterpillar that will grow each day that we have school. He’s already another circle longer than yesterday!
Our school room the night before, with Grace and Caleb’s workboxes all ready to go…
The kiddos, working hard…
Grace, our 2nd-grader!
Caleb, our kindergarten-and-a-halfer, with some silly poses!
So, during much of our school time, Ava has been enjoying some activities from a busy bag swap we participated in. SO. WONDERFUL. Basically, I made 30 sets of one activity and sent it to a person. Meanwhile, 29 other people each made 30 sets of different activities. And our coordinator sorted them and sent each person one of each of the activities that everyone made (i.e. 30 different activities). It was SO worth my time and money! It has been great for Ava so far (and yes, I know it’s only the second day of school, but I’m sure these are activities that she can do over and over again). My only regret is that I didn’t participate in the swap for Jaden’s age group. I DEFINITELY will if it comes back around.
But for now, here are a couple of pictures of Ava working on her busy bags…
I’m still so thankful that God has given us the opportunity to teach our kiddos at home. What a huge responsibility and a tremendous blessing!
What are you looking forward to as school begins again?
Such creativity!
Learning to sit? Great idea (and I checked out the blog link). I wish more people would take on the challenge of teaching their kids to sit still in church (maybe I should start with E). Sometimes, though, the child’s personality (ADHD) has its limits. Our church has Children’s Church until they are 12. We refuse to let them go to Children’s Church. How can they learn to behave if you don’t teach them IN church.
I love the busy bags. Great idea to share with others.
I love the fact that you are homeschooling our grandchildren. I knew you would be amazing at it. G, C, A & J are doing amazing (even in the hard times). Love those guys!
This was so the pick-me-up I needed to get my tired self going this morning! I cannot even handle Caleb’s facial expressions – what a riot! You can tell him that Aunt Betsey was definitely a better, more patient, more cheerful teacher today because his faces made me laugh right at the start of my morning.
Sounds like your year is off to a great start! The school room is looking great; I love your teacher/student table. Very resourceful use of space. Looking forward to more posts about your education ideas!
love,
Buzz