Finally, my long-time plan of homeschooling my children materialized this year (2009). After much prayer and research, my sons and I have wholeheartedly decided to be a homeschooling family.
To be honest, I found it a daunting task at first. I know that it is a big responsibility. I've read about it, heard many good reviews, and it is not without sacrifices. The question was, "Can I do it?" With much preparation and with God's help I know I can and I will.
I thought to myself, "If I'm going to spend my energies, I'd rather spend it enriching the lives of my children."
Before final plans were made, I laid out the options to my sons-- one entering 1st grade and the other going 3rd grade. They chose to be home-schooled, so the decision is unanimous. They were very excited with the idea that their mom will be their teacher. Big smile here :D.
CLEARING UP MY SCHEDULE
I'm a piano teacher teaching lessons all year round to roughly about twenty-five to thirty five students weekly. After my students' summer recital, I announced that my teaching time will be reduced. I lessened my teaching load to free up my mornings and early afternoons.
CURRICULUM
After much research I finally decided on the Robinsons Method. My sons love to read and they are very independent, I thought this would be the best method for them. I ordered the set of CDs and am now excitedly waiting for the shipment to arrive. For their Math, I chose Math Mammoth Light Blue series. I hope these would work well for them.
SETTING UP THE STUDY AREA
The original plan was to set it up in the room connected to the music room where I teach, but our front porch with it's natural sunlight and morning breeze proved to be the better option. They chose to work on a tiled area rather than in a carpeted room.
Their desks are two old and heavy classroom desks we bought many years back from a 2nd hand store. It was for my brother's art studio used by his students when he was still teaching art lessons. Now, these have been sitting in one corner gathering dust. After cleaning it up, it's perfect as the boys' workdesk.
I also bought a Fuji Xerox laser printer for their worksheets and other stuff that will have to be printed. A laser printer is the most economical choice for me since I find inkjet refills quite expensive.
So, here's what I have for now. There's nothing much in this blog yet. But I'll be updating this site from time to time.
