big age gaps

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  • December 27, 2016 at 11:19 pm
    BeverlyJane
    Participant

    We have big age gaps between the children in our family. (unplanned) I homeschooled our first and second born, but I am really struggling with whether or not I should homeschool our third born for Kindergarten or explore other options. Our youngest is alone so much at home. The youngest doesn’t get to “play” with siblings during the day or go on field trips with siblings, like most homeschooling families we know. Beginning the homeschooling journey all over again seems overwhelming, for many reasons, but mostly I think I’m worried about the youngest not having interaction with others and not enjoying homeschooling, because it’s just the two of us! Any thoughts/advice?

    December 28, 2016 at 10:57 pm
    butterflylake
    Participant

    I am homeschooling an only (son, age 7), which is very much what you would be doing! There are definitely times I feel it would be nice to have a sibling/classmate for him.(NOT happening). We live on the edge of a major city with lots of homeschoolers, so we are able to participate in many activities which connect him to other children of various ages. Piano, karate and church activities are his regular commitments. We also know other CM families with which we can meet for Nature Study or play at parks.
    There are certainly challenges to parenting/teaching only children, but there are some different blessings that come with it. For example, I would value the opportunity to explore that child’s interests without having to balance the needs of siblings. You can choose curriculum to meet that child’s needs without concern that it will be a good fit for others. Your time is focused on one, and you can spend as much time as they need on a subject.
    I do miss the interaction that siblings have. I am sure it would be a benefit at time to have another child in the house to play with and to do school activities together. Inviting other families over to play, do science experiments, bake, etc. help to fill that gap.
    I hope this is an encouragement to you. I do enjoy homeschooling my only.
    Vanessa

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