While each day is unique in itself it helps to have a pattern or routine to follow. Over time I’ve found that fixed schedule just does not work well for our family. What I do like is a routine, then no mater what time you get started your day still has a flow to it. When something happens to interrupt your day, just start back with the next to do on the list. And interruptions DO happen don’t they. It can be anything from someone dropping buy to visit, an unexpected appointment, illness or a fussy toddler. I find these things so much easier to work around if I’m not worrying about the “schedule”.
Our routine might get some tweaking this year. But this is basically how it’s been working for us.
Get up, dressed and have breakfast. After breakfast we do morning chores. This is washing the breakfast dishes, starting some laundry and getting the table reading for lessons.
Dh does Bible study with the kids. Then we do map time. This is something dh started doing with them last year. We have different maps on our living room walls. He started teaching 1 country at a time last year, adding a new 1 each day. The children now know a large number of countries, all the continents, oceans and provinces/territories of Canada. These get reviewed every day, they love seeing who can get the answer first.
After that we head out to the table and start math. This is followed by our LA activities, copy work, spelling, grammar. Then we will take a snack break while I read our FIAR (Five in a Row) title. After that we’ll do the FIAR activity for the day. Then read about what ever country we are currently studying and do an activity with that. I have been using Galloping The Globe along side FIAR and it’s a wonderful complement to each other.
We take a break for lunch and after that read our science or history section. Then do any activity or copy work relating to that.
That is about the end of our formal lessons. Most of the time we are finished by noon or just after. The afternoon is saved for crafts and nature studies. We also have family reading times in the evening. We are currently working our way through the Little House On The Prairie set.
Map time sounds fun! You’ve got my brain thinking.. Thanks for sharing what your school day looks like. I agree, I do much better with a routine than with a strict schedule. My kids, though, really do well with set times for specific things (like snack time!) which is why I’ve added set time check points for our school day. Of course some days, like doctor appointment days, will have to be different. But as much as we can we stick to our times. They’ll tell me, “it’s time for snack, mom” and it keeps me accountable with some rhythm for our day.
Sounds like a wonderful and exciting schedule…wish I could join you with my gang:-)
Hi! Love this time of year! Map time is a wonderful idea that we might just have to incorporate this year. I just wanted to pass along a great deal with The Old Schoolhouse Magazine. The one yr subscription and 2 yr subscription prices are unbelievable (plus the free gifts). I saw that it said US and Canadian prices and thought of you! The special ends on 7/31 (go to their website to see it-I tried to cut and paste but it wouldn’t work).Take care and would love another garden update! Jennifer