Making a Homeschool Rhythm

Hey Loves!

Can I share something with you? I had no idea what a homeschool rhythm was. Not one. Not a clue. 

If you don’t know what something is, you have no idea how the benefits of it flow through your home.

So, once I found out about this gem and did a little digging, I was able to apply it so my family could thrive with it and not be bound to a schedule.

What’s the difference between a schedule and rhythms, you ask? Simply put, freedom and grace. A schedule is pass/fail. You either do the thing, complete the task or you don’t. A rhythm allows for grace to maybe kinder complete the task and the grace to either skip it or try it a different way.

Here is how I organize our homeschool rhythm every year:

Survey our life- That sounds very technical but basically I compile our activities, plans and ideals-like downtime, family time and things like church, chores and meal prep. 

Be realistic- I am definitely team “go hard or go home” but I have learned, albeit the hard way, that actually we can do way more when we do a little and are intentional with our time. 

Prep and plan- So, taking the two items above, I plan out our days. This includes not just the activities and ideals, but I have to be realistic and include traffic, prep time, travel time between destinations, etc. 

Put it all together- This is the last step. Think of the items above like puzzle pieces or Jenga blocks. I piece each item together in the little matrix of our lives and then, this is the key, I structure what lessons we do on what day so we can get into our rhythm.

I’ve said this before but I honestly can’t stress enough that the emphasis of homeschooling is on the home, not the opening  or closing of a curriculum at a certain time.
If you would like a printable to organize your own homeschool rhythm you can grab it here.

How We Use Digital Learning

Hey Loves!

I understand that seeing all of our resources and/or eclectic approach to homeschool can be a little overwhelming. I need you to know we take our time and we utilize games and digital learning platforms.

I am far from a screen-free mama. In fact, we changed our Internet provider because we have so many devices running. I truly believe these can be used effectively and add to the educational experiences. 

Here is a snippet of what we use and how we use it.

Podcasts: History, character, cooperative work and more are explained and can be applied all through various podcasts! It is honestly kind of crazy the amount of information that is available in podcasts. We also use them to reinforce lessons, particularly in Spanish.

BrainPop: This app is a  deep and rich well of information spanning a multitude of subjects and ideas. They have two levels and we have been very happy with them both.

Epic: It;s only been a year since I was even introduced to this app but WOW! My love for books definitely passed down because my kids can  get lost for hours in their vast catalog of books. They have everything from comic books, audiobooks, read-to-me, and absolutely everything in between. They have resource books, story books and original book series. 

Kindle Unlimited: Again, more books, I know. We honestly can’t get enough of them. Kindle unlimited offers us a great amount of reading material, while it does have a cap, we have been able to take our time and read lots of books for one low fee instead of who knows how much.

Hoopla: This comes with our library card and admittedly, I use it more than my kids! They have so many audiobooks as well as ebooks,movies and music!

Khan Academy Kids: This was one of the very first apps my kids use and we still love it! It is engaging, fun and somehow never gets old!

Are there some others I must try?

Homeschool Parent Teacher Gifts

Hey Loves!

So, I felt I needed to follow up my previous post with one for the homeschool parents. 

Listen, while I know the position we have to choose to teach our kids from our home or wherever is a privilege, that privilege doesn’t detract the mental and physical work that you put in. It most certainly does not detract from you deserving to been and shown gratitude. 

Thus, I’ve compiled a short list of gifts that I feel are an investment in you and will enhance your ability to wear the five million hats per day that you do, every day. 

Spa Day- I know, I know. You do your own manicures, pedicures, eye brows and whatever else in the few minutes you can a day. Maybe go get an actual manicure, invest in the at-home gel set you’ve been wanting, buy some skin care. The point here is to invest time in your body that is just for you. 

Books- I am incredibly guilty of spending an insane amount of money on books for my kids but will wait 12-16 weeks for a book for me from the library. Sad, I know. I know I’m not the only one. I’m legit considering finally getting an audible membership. It is so hard for me to commit to spending that on me per month for books!!!! But I loooove them!

Teacher supplies- I mean, you desce your own pens, scissors, journal, notebook…

Hydration station- this is personal for me as I need a travel coffee tumble and a new water bottle. I’ve needed them for a while and have yet to invest in me for the two things I look forward to every day-coffee and water (most times in that order.)

So, the best gift to you is to invest in you and then make investing in you a habit. 

Until next time

MomCation- The Worship

Hey Loves!

If you are new here, you should know I am fully in love with Jesus. So in love that I knew this time needed to involve sweet communion and fellowship with Jesus.

I worshiped. Not just Listening to some songs to get  through but  legit marveling at all of the love, grace, blessings and provision.

I prayed. Well, I guess it was more like non stop talking about all the things but it was faith restoring.

I reviewed sermon notes. That sounds kinda shallow but I take a lot of notes and the goal is to absorb and apply. I was missing that last step quite often.

This time also allowed for meditation on our homeschool word and verse for the current and for next year. This girl is excited for what God is doing!

Summer Learning Plans

Hey Loves!

I feel like we were skiing only a month ago and now it is somehow summer. Time flies when you are having fun and that is exactly what we have been doing!

We explored, adventured and grew a ton this year. I have no regrets. That’s why I can welcome the calling of rest and connection. My soul requires silence and solitude and time with God. My mental health requires some new habits to take root and grow. My heart desires the sweet communion with close friends and family. The creative in me is working on several projects to share later.

So what does all that have to do with summer learning, you ask? Well, a lot. Just as I am listening to myself and my needs I am doing that for my kids. They need consistency. They need connection.They need soul rest.

With that, here is what I have on deck for summer learning.

Math: Continue our next books in Singapore math

LA: Starting a new reading curriculum for Jude and finishing grammar and All About Reading for James.

Science: Review our Sassafrass Science Books

Spanish: Review and get into a new Spanish podcast

History/Geography: Finishing Curiosity Chronicles and Brazil Unit Study

Morning Starters: New Comprehensive workbooks from their summer baskets

Bible: Armor of God study

That’s it. Review, finish and connect.

Easter Basket Stuffer Ideas

Hey Loves!!!

So, really, how is your 2021 treating you? If I’m being honest, there’s still a lot of 2020 energy floating around and lots more Pandemic-style birthdays and celebrations are happening. So, on the with the show, right?

What isn’t changing is how I do any type of celebration or gifts to my kids- NO JUNK!!! I’m the mom that does needs and practical fun items and if you looking for some ideas that are my favorite things-easy, inexpensive and cute- you’re reading the right blog. Leggo!

Something to wear: Seriously, seasons are changing and wardrobes are changing too. If your kids are like mine, they definitely need some additions. I take this opportunity to do something I couldn’t find at consignment and they would enjoy. However, I stay under $15 and have high-hopes for reselling and hand-me-downs.

This category also includes shoes. For some reason, my kids’ feet feel the need to grow entire sizes in a matter of months. For spring/summer shoes, we keep them easy and light. I also keep them low on cost because why not? This year I went with some Vans to coordinate with their dad and I. These were $25 which is a good deal for this brand. 

April Showers Ready: It rains everywhere, some places more than others. I also know kids enjoy kid size umbrellas and throwing on rain jackets and rain boots. These make great additions or can even be the easter basket.

Books: If you know me at all, you know I have a problem when it comes to books. Simply put, I can’t say no. I am always on the hunt for quality books and my kids are budding book-a-holics. Books as gifts are always a hit here.

Crafts: This can be anything from crayons to a craft kit. My kids are getting personalized crayons to keep those hands busy when streaming church and a wooden box they can paint to store their watches and necklaces

Something they can do/use right away and/or Outdoor play: This is a biggie for me. There is no greater annoyance than having to drop everything to assemble something or deal with the emotions because it can’t be used. So, I get something they can use inside or out, rain or shine that doesnt require batteries or an exorbitant amount of my patience. I am pretty sure jump ropes will be a staple for the next couple years and this year I found kid-sized hoola hoops. I would also suggest skates, scooters, sidewalk chalk or card games.

Personalized Items: I mean, why not throw a monogram on a shirt ot bow? You can also add some personalized touches to items that doesnt include their name. I added these “biggie” and “smalls” caps to their easter baskets.

Summer Styling: Sunglasses, caps, swim suits, beach towels, you name it! Let’s get ready for summer fun and look cute while at it. 

Everyday Essentials: Because band-aids, body wash, sponges, character toothbrushes and toothpaste are essential and will be used!

Discipleship tools: This one is near to my heart. James accepted Chtist as his savior on Easter of 2020 and I gotto be there for it and walk hum through it. I will never forget that. I marked that occasion by getting him a cross necklace but I knew then I wanted him to have tools to grow his faith and deepen his relationship. I decided on this devotional for James and this book for Jude. 

I want to wrap this up by saying your easter basket will not be pinterest perfect and that is what makes it beautiful.

Love you. Mean it.

12 Days of Gifting-Ideas for Everyone In Your Life: Mom Stocking Stuffers

My dearest Loves,

We made it! Can you hear the bells ringing? Day 12 is here and I love that I am ending this series with my people-my biggest supporters, best friends and target audience, MAMAS. Whether you fill your own stocking or wake up to it filled, here are some ideas you can buy or ask Santa for.

  1. Spa Treatment- CAN NOT GO WRONG! anything from a manicure to a massage without kids will suffice.
  2. Quality Pens/Stationery- I feel like this is a staple.
  3. Devotional- Again, a staple for me but you will have to do some research here Not all are created equal. This one is everything.
  4. New book or Audiobook- Because moms deserve it. Also, I am famous for pre-ordering or spending $20 on a book for my kids but will go without or wait 7-14 weeks for the library loan to be available for a book I want.
  5. Personalized necklace- Her name, monogram, initial, kids’ names, mama- they all work!
  6. Kindle unlimited gift card- One month, three months, 40 months-again, mama deserves it.

12 Days of Gifting-Ideas for Everyone In Your Life: Kids Stocking Stuffers

Oh my Loves!

I can’t thank you enough for hanging with me these last 11 days. I sure hope these helped you, if only a tiny bit. Today and tomorrow are all about stocking stuffers. Let’s see what kids of all ages can get!

  1. Body Wash- Everything from EveryKid brand to Marc Jacobs or Ralph Lauren works here. No matter the age, all children must get clean.
  2. Gift Certificate- Pump your breaks, I’m talking $5-$10 max for coffee, quick bites or dessert.
  3. Activity Book- Again, these work for all ages. Sticker, Magic Painting, Minecraft, Color by Number, Sudoku, Trivia… go for it! 
  4. Toothbrushes- Are you noticing a theme??? My kids get “fancy” spin brushes on holidays. You can take it up a notch by getting a toothbrush (or razor) subscription.
  5. Yummy Treats- Who doesn’t like treats??? Just make sure they follow the diet of the recipient!
  6. Accessories- These are my favorite. Babies can get amber teething necklaces, young kids, older kids and adults can get watches, watch bands, earrings, necklaces, hair accessories, ties or socks!