I am adopting a new phrase..."Keep It Simple Sweetie". I have been in contact with some dear ladies, Lisa and Tina, about my struggles with TOG and other things having to do with school. Tina gently introduced me to the phrase that Lisa coined and I am going to have it tattooed on my forehead...backwards...so it is the first thing I see in the morning when I look in the mirror.
I am trying to do too much. The boys are still young. I need to slow down and allow more time for discussion (not lecture) and exploration. I need to learn how to relax and allow the boys' interests on the topic to lead our discussion. I need to allow them to tell me what they thought was interesting or how they would have handled a situation. I need to not be so concerned with coloring pages, scripted questions, or the clock. This is the age of exploration and discovering. I am real good about letting them explore, but only on their time and not during school. I need to allow them do explore and discover all. the. time....with guidance of course.
So, where does that leave me? With a lot of reading. I need to blow the dust off my Charlotte Mason books and reacquaint myself with her and her teachings. Her philosophy of education warms my heart. She "Kept It Simple" and her students developed a life long love of learning. They received an academically challenged, well rounded education. That is what I want for my boys and that is what I am going to strive to give them.
There are going to be some changes after the break. Changes I know I have talked about before on this blog, but never got around to implementing. I need to figure out a way to make them happen. So, stay tuned and remember to "Keep It Simple Sweetie"!
3 comments:
Okay...the similarities between us get eerie at times. :) Seriously, though, I have been having similar thoughts regarding our school time, too. I just bought LCC and plan to read it and hopefully some CM this holiday in order to make changes for the new year. I look forward to reading about the changes you make...so I can steal them. :)
You go girlfriend!! *Ü* I look forward to reading about all you are learning yourself!
Im still very green w/ envy that you get to actually see Barb IRL... *Ü*
Love to you sister...
Lisa~
Brittney: It sounds like you are on absolute right track!! I am sure that you will love a more relaxed approach. SO many people equate the CM educucational way as being TOO relaxed but I disagree. She implemented a very well rounded educational plan but the shorter days and the child-led exploration really get to the heart of the child and give them a love of learning.
Blessings to you as you "Keep It Simple Sweetie!" :)
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