How Unusual Days Make for Intelligently Unusual Kids

Posted by Debra | 0 comments

Our normal day includes reading aloud, math concepts, vocabulary exercises, a little writing, a little Bible discussion, science experiments, notebook pages and a big whiteboard checklist that guides us through everything in a day.  Recently we’ve had opportunities for some unusual days; days when we learned in other ways and to our great advantage.  This Spring, I’ve embraced a bit more of Charlotte Mason’s three-pronged education (atmosphere, discipline and life) and as a result, I’ve grown to appreciate who my boys are, how they see the world, and what excites them.  Here are some of the experiences we’ve had.

• While playing an organized kickball game, I watched my four-year-old join with kids all the way up to age 18 to become part of a winning team, with his own brother encouraging him.  He learned that older kids could be his allies and helpers, that working together is enjoyable and that even the littlest contribution can make a difference.  Not many preschoolers get to have such positive group experiences.

• On a group outing to a local physical-challenge arena my sons learned physics principles like angular momentum and centrifugal force but they also learned to physically push themselves while employing determination, strategy and teamwork.  Certainly, most children engage in teamwork in their classrooms, but homeschoolers are likely more comfortable pursuing individual interests.  In this setting they were encouraged to not only try what they liked, but they were inspired by each other to attempt something new.  This left my kinesthetic kids feeling like winners.

• A bit of wanderlust was to blame for a 750 mile weekend road trip to the Black Hills of South Dakota where my 4, 9 and 11 year old sons were completely amazed at the massive sculpture of Mt. Rushmore.  As they interacted with the film and elements in the visitor’s center their knowledge certainly increased, but I was more impressed with the internal value of whole experience.  They were inquisitive and grateful.  They demonstrated patience and interest.  And I think an increasing sense of the value of honor and persistence crept into them.  This was perhaps the most enjoyable road trip we have had and it double counted as school.

• Finally, I can’t decide if taking my 9-year-old to the art museum is my new favorite thing or if just taking him anywhere by himself is a ton of fun no matter what.  As the two of us explored the museum he confirmed for me that he truly thinks in terms of design.  I loved discovering some interactive technology with him and pointing out artful creations utilizing line, shape and texture.  It was wonderful to note not only the pieces he enjoyed but also how comfortable he felt in the environment.  When you get your kids alone you really do see what makes them come alive.

There is a time for discipline, but there is also an equal need to engage in new environments and expand life experience. With the end of the school year fast approaching, don’t get too bogged down in plowing through the work that’s left.  Let unusual days inhabit your calendar and you’ll find when you do that they fill the spirit.

Debra Anderson has three sons ages 11 and younger. Her passions are education, mentoring, her husband, writing, church ministry and missional living — not in that order. She has her seminary Masters degree in Christian Education, is married to her pastor-husband of 16 years, and resides in their newish home in Denver, CO. In spite of moves between four different states, she has always home educated her boys — even on the hard days. She maintains a blog at www.emergent-homeschool.blogspot.com.