Wednesday, March 8, 2017
Tuesday, June 21, 2016
10 Tips for New Homeschoolers Attending Your 1st Convention/Expo
I just shared these tips on my homeschool community's Facebook page and thought to re-share them here for anyone who missed it or wants to revisit it in one place.
At the beginning homeschooling many of us were overwhelmed with all the information and choices. I have found these tips to be helpful and hope that you, too, will be able to make use of them.
Tip #1: Know Your Family's Goals
What are your family's goals for homeschooling? Why are you homeschooling and to what end? What things are important for you to do with your children? What subjects will you be covering this year? How will you accommodate all the life and socialization skills you know your children need?
These are just a few questions you should ask yourself to help you hone in on what YOU are doing with regards to homeschooling/life-learning.
Attending conferences and conventions will definitely help you expand your ideas, but begin by identifying where you are and where you want to be. Make a list of what's important to you. Talk it over with your spouse/partner. Make sure the two of you are on the same page. This one step will help you identify information and resources that will be meaningful to you and your family.
Tip #2--Know Your Child/ren's Learning Style
How best does your child learn? Do they prefer listening or reading? Are they content with sitting for a good bit of time working independently or do they like talking and interacting with others? Do they like to manipulate and handle things or do they like to mull things over in their minds before responding and coming up with new ideas?
Learning styles are not clear cut, but understanding how best your child learns will help you as you listen to suggestions and browse through curriculum and resource options. Why purchase something that doesn't match the way your child learns? It will be more of a headache for you and you'll end up wasting your money.
Watch your child. Pay attention to what brings them alive as you learn together. Take note of their interests, their strengths and challenges. Knowing these things before heading to a convention will help you weed through the overwhelmingness of all your options and get right to what your family needs.
Talk with others during the convention and expos to see what curricula works best for children who are auditory learners or more kinesthetic learners, etc. Listen to others who have found things that work for their children who learn similar to yours. Let the information you have inform your purchases for next year.
Tip #3 & #4 -- Have a Plan & Have a Budget
Know your reason for attending. Are you going to look through curriculum options up close and personal? Are you wanting to speak with an author or publisher (or their rep) directly to better understand their methods? Are you going to hear a particular speaker? Are you going to meet other like-minded homeschoolers in your area? Are you just curious and want to see what all the hype is about?
Knowing your purpose for attending can assist you in remaining on track so as not to be overwhelmed at the larger conventions. It can also guide you through smaller ones, too.
Have a budget. This is key. Every year you will hear from homeschooling families who have gone over their budget because they didn't have one.
Know what you're looking for. Research now the typical price points for those items. Deals and discounts are often offered during conventions and expos--so they are typically the time to make purchases. However, be wise about it. Can you find that same resource at a used book sale or online? Everything at a convention is meant to draw your attention and want it. By having a list of items you're looking for and a budget, you can leave with peace of mind with regards to your spending.
Tip #5 -- Go Ready to Learn Something New
All of the previous tips have focused on the importance of knowing where you and your children are and being willing to hold those things in a way that keeps them priority. However, you want to make sure you remain open to learning new ways of doing things. This could be from a speaker/presenter during a workshop or from another homeschooling parent who is willing to share from their experiences as you browse through convention halls.
Look and listen. Ask questions until you have the answers you need. There are many ways of doing things. In attending, you may be surprised to find out another way of reaching your children that may work better than what you've thought/planned thus far. Be open to this! (Carrying a small notebook to write down these ideas is helpful.)
Tips #6 and #7 are pretty straight forward but I thought I should point both of them out to you.
Take your time--plan now to spend a full day (or two) so that you have ample time to browse, ask questions, get the answers to your questions and attend workshops. You don't want to feel rushed, as this often cause stress, especially for those of you who will be experiencing your first one this year. There will be crowds so you'll have to account for that. You may also have to wait to talk to a speaker or vendor. If you aren't planning to stay the full time, you can sometimes miss these opportunities. Even if you end up leaving early, plan to take your time.
Bring a tote--the ones on wheels are better to carry the items that you purchase. There is nothing like lugging a heavy tote bag on your shoulder through a convention center. It will make for a much more pleasant experience, trust us on this! You can find rolling totes at most of the office type stores. You will be glad that you have it instead of having to use your shoulders.
Tip #8 -- Plan for your children
Homeschool Conventions and Expos can be a lot to take in. If you can attend without your children, plan to do so. You will want to take your time while browsing so that you can accurately identify the resources that match your family's goals and styles. It can be challenging when you have little ones, and even older ones, chattering at you. This may not be feasible for everyone who, so here are a few more ideas:
*Bring an older homeschooled child with you who can assist you with your children. (Somewhat like a mother's helper.)
*Some conventions/expos offer a children's program. Find out now about them and the costs and sign your children up for that. They usually coincide with the workshop schedule.
*Bring your partner/spouse so you can 'double team' the kids. When you want to speak with a curriculum rep, workshop speaker, or another homeschooling parent your partner/spouse can manage the children and vice versa.
*Plan to attend with another homeschooling family and take turns with all the children. If you do plan to take your children with you, be sure to set clear expectations for them. But also, be realistic. They cannot be expected to be silent the entire time. Bring snacks and water. Bring things they can do quietly while you attend workshops. Plan for necessary bathroom breaks. This will help both you and your children get the most of the experience.
Each year I secure a babysitter and plan a fun day for my children at home while I attend conferences and conventions. Last year was my first time taking my older two the second day of an expo so they could see just what I was looking at for them. I allowed both of them to find something they wanted and purchased it. We had previously talked about what we'd be studying and what things would best suit our needs. That experience went well and I will probably do it again this year.
Regardless of what you decide--do plan for your children.
Tip #9 -- Bring Your Lists
Tip #10: Take a Positive Attitude
As with pregnancy, you are bound to encounter unsolicited advice from a stranger or two. Take it in stride and be gracious. If you're able to be in a positive place, you may find something helpful in what was shared.
Checkout lines can be long, your positive attitude while waiting will come in handy here, too. Popular workshops can fill up quickly. Seats may be held for others who have yet to come in. You may have to stand in the back or may even miss attending one due to the overwhelming interest. A positive attitude is good to hold onto in this event.
But not only that, being in a positive space will allow you to offer your advice, tips and experience to others who may be feeling unsure, hesitant or apprehensive. You can give the reassuring smile or knowing look to someone else, who may not be as prepared as you at the convention.
I hope that these ten tips will assist you in making this year's homeschool conventions and expos season a good one. Planning is key, knowing what you're looking for is important and being positive is essential.
Do you have other suggestions and tips that you can add to this list? Take a moment to comment below. Another parent will be thankful you shared (and I will too!).
Happy Learning!
At the beginning homeschooling many of us were overwhelmed with all the information and choices. I have found these tips to be helpful and hope that you, too, will be able to make use of them.
Tip #1: Know Your Family's Goals
What are your family's goals for homeschooling? Why are you homeschooling and to what end? What things are important for you to do with your children? What subjects will you be covering this year? How will you accommodate all the life and socialization skills you know your children need?
These are just a few questions you should ask yourself to help you hone in on what YOU are doing with regards to homeschooling/life-learning.
Attending conferences and conventions will definitely help you expand your ideas, but begin by identifying where you are and where you want to be. Make a list of what's important to you. Talk it over with your spouse/partner. Make sure the two of you are on the same page. This one step will help you identify information and resources that will be meaningful to you and your family.
Tip #2--Know Your Child/ren's Learning Style
How best does your child learn? Do they prefer listening or reading? Are they content with sitting for a good bit of time working independently or do they like talking and interacting with others? Do they like to manipulate and handle things or do they like to mull things over in their minds before responding and coming up with new ideas?
Learning styles are not clear cut, but understanding how best your child learns will help you as you listen to suggestions and browse through curriculum and resource options. Why purchase something that doesn't match the way your child learns? It will be more of a headache for you and you'll end up wasting your money.
Watch your child. Pay attention to what brings them alive as you learn together. Take note of their interests, their strengths and challenges. Knowing these things before heading to a convention will help you weed through the overwhelmingness of all your options and get right to what your family needs.
Talk with others during the convention and expos to see what curricula works best for children who are auditory learners or more kinesthetic learners, etc. Listen to others who have found things that work for their children who learn similar to yours. Let the information you have inform your purchases for next year.
Tip #3 & #4 -- Have a Plan & Have a Budget
Know your reason for attending. Are you going to look through curriculum options up close and personal? Are you wanting to speak with an author or publisher (or their rep) directly to better understand their methods? Are you going to hear a particular speaker? Are you going to meet other like-minded homeschoolers in your area? Are you just curious and want to see what all the hype is about?
Knowing your purpose for attending can assist you in remaining on track so as not to be overwhelmed at the larger conventions. It can also guide you through smaller ones, too.
Have a budget. This is key. Every year you will hear from homeschooling families who have gone over their budget because they didn't have one.
Know what you're looking for. Research now the typical price points for those items. Deals and discounts are often offered during conventions and expos--so they are typically the time to make purchases. However, be wise about it. Can you find that same resource at a used book sale or online? Everything at a convention is meant to draw your attention and want it. By having a list of items you're looking for and a budget, you can leave with peace of mind with regards to your spending.
Tip #5 -- Go Ready to Learn Something New
All of the previous tips have focused on the importance of knowing where you and your children are and being willing to hold those things in a way that keeps them priority. However, you want to make sure you remain open to learning new ways of doing things. This could be from a speaker/presenter during a workshop or from another homeschooling parent who is willing to share from their experiences as you browse through convention halls.
Look and listen. Ask questions until you have the answers you need. There are many ways of doing things. In attending, you may be surprised to find out another way of reaching your children that may work better than what you've thought/planned thus far. Be open to this! (Carrying a small notebook to write down these ideas is helpful.)
Tips #6 and #7 are pretty straight forward but I thought I should point both of them out to you.
Take your time--plan now to spend a full day (or two) so that you have ample time to browse, ask questions, get the answers to your questions and attend workshops. You don't want to feel rushed, as this often cause stress, especially for those of you who will be experiencing your first one this year. There will be crowds so you'll have to account for that. You may also have to wait to talk to a speaker or vendor. If you aren't planning to stay the full time, you can sometimes miss these opportunities. Even if you end up leaving early, plan to take your time.
Bring a tote--the ones on wheels are better to carry the items that you purchase. There is nothing like lugging a heavy tote bag on your shoulder through a convention center. It will make for a much more pleasant experience, trust us on this! You can find rolling totes at most of the office type stores. You will be glad that you have it instead of having to use your shoulders.
Tip #8 -- Plan for your children
Homeschool Conventions and Expos can be a lot to take in. If you can attend without your children, plan to do so. You will want to take your time while browsing so that you can accurately identify the resources that match your family's goals and styles. It can be challenging when you have little ones, and even older ones, chattering at you. This may not be feasible for everyone who, so here are a few more ideas:
*Bring an older homeschooled child with you who can assist you with your children. (Somewhat like a mother's helper.)
*Some conventions/expos offer a children's program. Find out now about them and the costs and sign your children up for that. They usually coincide with the workshop schedule.
*Bring your partner/spouse so you can 'double team' the kids. When you want to speak with a curriculum rep, workshop speaker, or another homeschooling parent your partner/spouse can manage the children and vice versa.
*Plan to attend with another homeschooling family and take turns with all the children. If you do plan to take your children with you, be sure to set clear expectations for them. But also, be realistic. They cannot be expected to be silent the entire time. Bring snacks and water. Bring things they can do quietly while you attend workshops. Plan for necessary bathroom breaks. This will help both you and your children get the most of the experience.
Each year I secure a babysitter and plan a fun day for my children at home while I attend conferences and conventions. Last year was my first time taking my older two the second day of an expo so they could see just what I was looking at for them. I allowed both of them to find something they wanted and purchased it. We had previously talked about what we'd be studying and what things would best suit our needs. That experience went well and I will probably do it again this year.
Regardless of what you decide--do plan for your children.
Tip #9 -- Bring Your Lists
As I have previously shared, knowing your family's goals and budget for homeschooling will greatly assist you in determining what resources you'll be on the look for during conferences and conventions. Also knowing how your children learn and what subjects you'll be covering this next school year will help you navigate all the information that you'll be presented with during workshops and all the resources/curriculum you'll see in the exhibition hall.
Make a couple lists for yourself to bring along:
1st List: This list should include what you're wanting to make sure you do, find out about or look at.
For example:
-Look at 6th Grade Science Curriculum
-Speak with a rep from a college campus
-Look for a handwriting curriculum for 2nd grade
-Attend a workshop about how to teach writing
-Speaking with [said speaker] about how to implement a schedule
-Compare prices and see what conference discounts are being offered.
-Look at 6th Grade Science Curriculum
-Speak with a rep from a college campus
-Look for a handwriting curriculum for 2nd grade
-Attend a workshop about how to teach writing
-Speaking with [said speaker] about how to implement a schedule
-Compare prices and see what conference discounts are being offered.
Write down the things you want to make sure you do while at the conference.
2nd List: This list can include what you're looking to purchase. Items you want to make sure you don't walk away without.
For example:
-Handwriting paper for cursive writing
-Specimens for dissection
-Laminated wall map
-3rd Grade Math Workbook
-Handwriting paper for cursive writing
-Specimens for dissection
-Laminated wall map
-3rd Grade Math Workbook
Whatever it is you're looking to purchase, make sure it's on this list.
As you navigate through an exhibition hall, do take time to look, listen, ask questions and learn. However, don't forget what you're looking for. Lists are great ways to make sure you've done what you've set out to accomplish. It will assist in keeping you on track.
Tip #10: Take a Positive Attitude
As with pregnancy, you are bound to encounter unsolicited advice from a stranger or two. Take it in stride and be gracious. If you're able to be in a positive place, you may find something helpful in what was shared.
Checkout lines can be long, your positive attitude while waiting will come in handy here, too. Popular workshops can fill up quickly. Seats may be held for others who have yet to come in. You may have to stand in the back or may even miss attending one due to the overwhelming interest. A positive attitude is good to hold onto in this event.
But not only that, being in a positive space will allow you to offer your advice, tips and experience to others who may be feeling unsure, hesitant or apprehensive. You can give the reassuring smile or knowing look to someone else, who may not be as prepared as you at the convention.
I hope that these ten tips will assist you in making this year's homeschool conventions and expos season a good one. Planning is key, knowing what you're looking for is important and being positive is essential.
Do you have other suggestions and tips that you can add to this list? Take a moment to comment below. Another parent will be thankful you shared (and I will too!).
Happy Learning!
Friday, June 3, 2016
Freebie Friday
Hands On Banking 4.0 for Kids
It's an interactive learning game. My children and I just watched the introduction video and will go through more of it during our 'Money Monday' time next week. We took a year-long financial literacy class with other homeschoolers in our area this year so I'm looking forward to see how this program reinforces what they've already learned.
If you try it out, let me know what you think.
Happy Friday!!
Labels:
financial literacy,
Freebie Friday,
freebies,
homeschool,
life-learning,
money
Saturday, May 14, 2016
For the Love of Learning
I'm participating on a panel of parents taking an alternative path to education. We'll be discussing homeschooling, unschooling, life-learning and many topics in between with a focus on how Black families are educating their children outside of school. Tune in if you can.
Wednesday, April 6, 2016
Learning and Growing
It's important to remember that learning and growing are not just for our children -- we need to keep up with them and push ourselves to keep growing. Arming ourselves with needed information is one way we as life-learning parents can not only set a good example for our children but also prepare us for assisting, facilitating and teaching them as they get older and into more challenging studies.
I so enjoy learning. Whether it's taking a class or workshop, reading a book or learning from another's experience, I am always learning something. I also enjoy sharing what I've learned with others. I haven't been here to blog in a good long while but I still use this space to direct others to information that has been shared to guide them in finding just what will work for their family.
I'm excited about an upcoming series of workshops that another homeschooling mom and I will be offering in our area for new homeschooling families. I figured I'd share it here as well in the event you happen to be local or know someone who might benefit from going through some of the basic steps in setting up and preparing to homeschooling their own children.
I so enjoy learning. Whether it's taking a class or workshop, reading a book or learning from another's experience, I am always learning something. I also enjoy sharing what I've learned with others. I haven't been here to blog in a good long while but I still use this space to direct others to information that has been shared to guide them in finding just what will work for their family.
I'm excited about an upcoming series of workshops that another homeschooling mom and I will be offering in our area for new homeschooling families. I figured I'd share it here as well in the event you happen to be local or know someone who might benefit from going through some of the basic steps in setting up and preparing to homeschooling their own children.
We've been down the road and have been able to assist so many families already -- I'm looking forward to meeting new families beginning this month. Feel free to link to my page or share this picture (above) in your networks.
Happy Learning & Growing!
Labels:
home learning,
how to plan series,
learning,
life-learning,
workshops
Sunday, June 28, 2015
We Speak Your Names
Rev. Clementa Pinckney
Tywanza Sanders
Cynthia Hurd
Sharonda Coleman-Singleton
Susie Jackson
Ethel Lance
Myra Thompson
Rev. Depayne Middleton Doctor
Rev. Daniel Simmons, Sr
We speak your names:
Kalief Browder
Tony Robinson
Anthony Hill
Naeschy Vinzant
Terrance Moxley
Charly Keundeu
Matthew Ajibade
Tim Elliott
John Paul Quintero
Adisha Miller
Alesia Thomas
Darnesha Harris
Delores Epps
Eleanor Bumpurs
Erica Collins
Heather Parker
Jacqueline Culp
Karen Day
Kendra James
Laporsha Watson
Mackala Ross
Pearlie Golden
Robin T. Williams
Sharmel Edwards
Shelly Frey
Shulena S. Weldon
Tyisha Miller
Rumain Brisbon
Tamir Rice
Akai Gurley
Kajimeme Powell
Ezell Ford
Dante Parker
Michael Brown
John Crawford, III
Tyree Woodson
Eric Gardner
Victor White, III
Yvette Smith
McKenzie Cochran
Jordan Baker
Andy Lopez
Miriam Carey
Jonanthan Ferrell
Carlos Alcis
Larry Eugene Jackson, Jr.
Deion Fludd
Kimani Gray
Johnnie Kamahi Warren
Malissa Williams
Timothy Russell
Reynaldo Cuevas
Chavis Carter
Shantel Davis
Sharmel Edwards
Tamon Robinson
Ervin Jefferson
Kendrec McDade
Rekia Boyd
Shereese Francis
Wendell Allen
Nehemiah Dillard
Dante Price
Raymond Allen
Manuel Loggins, Jr.
Ramarly Graham
Kenneth Chamberlain
Alonzo Ashley
Kenneth Harding
Raheim Brown
Reginald Doucet
Derrick Jones
Danroy Henry
Aiyana Jones
Steven Eugene Washington
Aaron Campbell
Kiwane Carrington
Victor Steen
Shem Walker
Oscar Grant
Tarika Wilson
Michael Ray Rodriguez
Kenneth Arnold Buck
Leslie Sapp, III
Hashim Hanif Ibn Abdul-Rasheed
Ronald Sneed
Brian Pickett
Andre Larone Murphy, Sr.
Omarr Jackson, Sr.
Artago Damon Howard
Alfontish Cockerham
Spencer Lee McCain
Tyrone Harris
Jermaine Benjamin
Tamara Siedle
Deng Manyoun
Fritz Severe
Isiah Hampton
QuanDavier Hicks
Demouria Hogg
Andrew Ellerbe
Sherman Byrd
Usaamah Rahim
Richard Gregory Davis
Kevin K. Allen
Kenneth Joel Dothard
James Edward Strong, Jr.
Dalton Branch
Anthony Dewayne Briggs
That's 120 people.
Men and women.
Gone.
I am exhausted.
There are still more names....
Are you tired?
Are you ready to do something?
It's time for each of us to get off the sidelines.
#BlackLivesMatter
Sources: Black Women Killed by Police, People of Color Killed by Police, Killed by Police,
Saturday, June 27, 2015
Friday, June 26, 2015
Freebie Friday
Here's a great site with a wonderful list of free STEM & STEAM resources. Take a look at it and let me know what you're liking.
Happy Friday!! Enjoy your weekend.
Be well.
Saturday, June 20, 2015
Friday, June 19, 2015
Freebie Friday
Sunday, June 14, 2015
Weekly Intentions :: A Practice
Good Morning! How have you been? How did your week go?
I must say that I accomplished everything and more on my list from last week. It was simple and sweet--much like today's will be.
Here's a peek into some of what we got into last week together:
This week the kids and I will engage in another week of 'staycation' fun. We've already selected the activities we want to do and have invited friends to join in, if they can.
I will focus on:
I must say that I accomplished everything and more on my list from last week. It was simple and sweet--much like today's will be.
Here's a peek into some of what we got into last week together:
![]() |
| Staycation Week One -- Done! |
This week the kids and I will engage in another week of 'staycation' fun. We've already selected the activities we want to do and have invited friends to join in, if they can.
I will focus on:
- daily meditation and quiet time
- daily exercise
- being present with my children (i.e. unplugging)
- laughing
- sharing through talking and listening
- getting out of the house and enjoying life around us
- completing a few of my reading projects (i'm reading books for me and reading some for my kids' book club for next year)
What is one thing that tops your list for this week? Share it below!! Yes, I want to know. :)
Wishing you just what you want/need this week--make it happen.
Be well.
Saturday, June 13, 2015
Friday, June 12, 2015
Freebie Friday
Today I'm sharing a math resource for Middle School Level to High School Algebra 2.
Hop on over to Big Ideas Learning and check out all they have to offer.
Enjoy!
Tuesday, June 9, 2015
Before You Throw Out Your Curriculum --- READ THIS!
I shared this a good while ago but think it can be helpful to anyone getting ready for a new homeschool year. Click here to read more and gather tips to assist you in your planning.
Be well.
Labels:
curriculum,
home learning,
homeschool,
planning,
Planning Your Year Anew
Sunday, June 7, 2015
Weekly Intentions :: A Practice
Good Morning!
This week's list is short and sweet!
This week's list is short and sweet!
- meditation & quiet time
- daily exercise
- read from summer reading list
- laugh
- be present & enjoy my children
- say 'yes' to every opportunity to hang out with friends
What's on your intentional list for this week? Are you doing anything special for the summer? I hope that no matter what is on your list this week you'll make time for what matters most in your life--enjoying yourself and the people who make your life sweet.
Be well.
Saturday, June 6, 2015
Friday, June 5, 2015
Freebie Friday
Another homeschooling mom shared these books with me and I thought you'd like to know about it too.
Here are the links:
Color Me Physics
Color Me Physics Activity Book
Enjoy!!
Wednesday, June 3, 2015
How to Plan 2.0 :: Tip #3 -- Take Inventory
Tip #3: Take Inventory
Now that you've evaluated what your children have learned--through personal reflection and tests (if applicable)--and taken time to complete your end of the year summary and record keeping procedures you can focus your attention on what you have and what you need for next term. Before running out to gather new or 'new to you' items, take inventory.What supplies do you still have on hand? What supplies need replacing? What supplies did not get used at all?
Are there books and/or resources you no longer need? Have you used everything you can from a specific resource? Are your children on a higher level and no longer need them? Do they cover topics you've completed?
Before getting rid of any items, evaluate their continued usefulness. Here are some tips to remind you how you can reuse what you already have: Before You Throw Out Your Curriculum...Read This!
Make a list of the supplies you will need for the coming year. Add these items to the list of things you have been making for the new year coming (yes, I know we all have these lists). :-)
Join me next week for Tip #4.
Be well.
Tuesday, June 2, 2015
5 Tips to Improve Your Time Management
Homeschooling can be challenging if you're struggling to manage your time. Truth be told none of us can actual 'make time'; we can only manage it in better ways. Every family has its own rhythm--thus what works for one may not work for another. Here are some general tips that can help each of us.
1. Prioritize
Something we all know but don't always do. Identify the people, activities and tasks that you want to give yourself to each day, week, month. Here on my blog I've started a weekly practice of intention setting. In practicing this each week, it has become a habit and we typically complete everything on our lists by setting our priorities. Find a time each day/week where you can set your priorities and give your time to that.
2. Eliminate Time-Wasters
Within each of our daily schedules we will find activities that simply waste the time we have. Some common time-wasters include TV, email, Facebook, Pinterest, blogs, books, magazines, and talking on the phone. None of these things are bad yet they can become distractions when we should be doing something else and eat up our time. Once you identify those that are taking up your time, cut them out. Or, perhaps a more realistic way to deal with them is to set a time for them. For example, if you're an early riser, you may be able to check email and read blogs first thing--before the day is started with your family. For me, I typically do things either first thing or last thing. I take a break in the middle of the day to check while we're doing lunch. One days when I keep to this schedule I find I have all the time I need.
3. Set Boundaries
Your time is valuable. Are you overcommitted? Have you said yes to activities in your homeschool group, church/mosque, community group, extended family? How much are you working? Have you agreed to tasks that are putting a strain on your time and your family's? If you are overbooked in activities and responsibilities outside of your home it becomes nearly impossible to take care of things within your home without a lot of undo stress. Set boundaries. Saying no may feel uncomfortable at the beginning but it will free you up to do the things you really want to say yes to.
4. Cut Out Unnecessary Tasks
Are there things on your 'To Do List' that you don't actually need to be doing? For example, are you doing the lion share of cleaning around your house? Can your spouse/partner or children join you in those tasks or take them over? Would creating a weekly schedule for laundry work better for your use of time instead of doing it daily? Identify tasks that others can help you with--and let them do it! You may find much more time by spreading your load and focusing on your priorities.
5. Continue Personal Development
When we use our time for personal growth and development--learning something new and/or giving our time to what we enjoy--we find that we have time and energy to give to all the other responsibilities. Challenging ourselves mentally and physically makes for a better emotional state and can add a breath of fresh air to all those mundane tasks we must do to keep life moving forward.
An added bonus:
Children learn best from good examples. By being intentional in the way we manage our time we'll also be teaching our children to do that same. Something we all want.
What else would you add to this list? Please comment below. Thanks.
Be well.
1. Prioritize
Something we all know but don't always do. Identify the people, activities and tasks that you want to give yourself to each day, week, month. Here on my blog I've started a weekly practice of intention setting. In practicing this each week, it has become a habit and we typically complete everything on our lists by setting our priorities. Find a time each day/week where you can set your priorities and give your time to that.
2. Eliminate Time-Wasters
Within each of our daily schedules we will find activities that simply waste the time we have. Some common time-wasters include TV, email, Facebook, Pinterest, blogs, books, magazines, and talking on the phone. None of these things are bad yet they can become distractions when we should be doing something else and eat up our time. Once you identify those that are taking up your time, cut them out. Or, perhaps a more realistic way to deal with them is to set a time for them. For example, if you're an early riser, you may be able to check email and read blogs first thing--before the day is started with your family. For me, I typically do things either first thing or last thing. I take a break in the middle of the day to check while we're doing lunch. One days when I keep to this schedule I find I have all the time I need.
3. Set Boundaries
Your time is valuable. Are you overcommitted? Have you said yes to activities in your homeschool group, church/mosque, community group, extended family? How much are you working? Have you agreed to tasks that are putting a strain on your time and your family's? If you are overbooked in activities and responsibilities outside of your home it becomes nearly impossible to take care of things within your home without a lot of undo stress. Set boundaries. Saying no may feel uncomfortable at the beginning but it will free you up to do the things you really want to say yes to.
4. Cut Out Unnecessary Tasks
Are there things on your 'To Do List' that you don't actually need to be doing? For example, are you doing the lion share of cleaning around your house? Can your spouse/partner or children join you in those tasks or take them over? Would creating a weekly schedule for laundry work better for your use of time instead of doing it daily? Identify tasks that others can help you with--and let them do it! You may find much more time by spreading your load and focusing on your priorities.
5. Continue Personal Development
When we use our time for personal growth and development--learning something new and/or giving our time to what we enjoy--we find that we have time and energy to give to all the other responsibilities. Challenging ourselves mentally and physically makes for a better emotional state and can add a breath of fresh air to all those mundane tasks we must do to keep life moving forward.
An added bonus:
Children learn best from good examples. By being intentional in the way we manage our time we'll also be teaching our children to do that same. Something we all want.
What else would you add to this list? Please comment below. Thanks.
Be well.
Monday, June 1, 2015
How to Afford Homeschooling
I am reposting an article I wrote a while back for anyone interested in homeschooling and finding out just how to afford it. During a recent discussion with several newbies, I decided to share it again for their benefit and yours. Click the link below to read it. I ask that if you have found something in addition to what's shared here, that you add it in the comment section. Thanks so much!
How Can I Afford Homeschooling?
Labels:
affording homeschool,
budget,
fees,
homeschooling costs,
money,
planning
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