Not much to show for our school day

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  • February 23, 2011 at 1:48 pm
    Heather
    Participant

    Although we do a full school day, I feel that the only thing I have to “show” for the fact that we have had a full school day is math and copywork.  I have just added in writing the answers for grammer every other day (we do Rod and Staff and have been doing it all orally).  I can’t help but feel a bit weird about this.  My kids are 8, 6 and 4. 

    Also for science and history, all of the children were sitting together for these readings, but lately, it is more of a distraction for them to be together than anything else.  I have been letting the younger ones go off and play while I read to the oldest and I think she daydreams.  I have pared down asking narration from my 8yo after every few sentences for history and she still makes things up or tells me something that has happened during a previous day’s reading.

    I guess my question is two-fold.  Is it okay not to have anything to show other than copywork, math and every other grammar assignment…and what do I do with this daydreamer?

    February 24, 2011 at 1:23 pm
    momto2blessings
    Participant

    I think it’s fine to just have math and copywork to show at that age (as long as your state doesn’t require more).  In a couple years the 8yo will also have written narrations to show.  About all my 8yo has to show is math, copywork, and PLL work.  And of course anything artsy he does. We also do a spelling and cursive book, but that wouldn’t be necessary if you’re covering spelling through copywork. 

    If my 8yo isn’t paying attention, I tell him that he’s going to have to read it on his own later and write me a narration—that usually works.  If he makes stuff up, I tell him if he wastes my time I’ll waste his and give him extra school work. Hope that helps some!  Blessings, Gina

    February 24, 2011 at 1:24 pm
    momto2blessings
    Participant

    Oh, and I do let my son draw while I read—otherwise he is more easily distracted.  He loves to draw—I’d also let him build if he wanted as long as he was paying attention.  Gina

    February 24, 2011 at 2:21 pm
    Heather
    Participant

    “If my 8yo isn’t paying attention, I tell him that he’s going to have to read it on his own later and write me a narration—that usually works.”

    Thanks Gina, that’s exactly what I’ll do.  Great suggestion!

    “If he makes stuff up, I tell him if he wastes my time I’ll waste his and give him extra school work. “

    This almost made me choke on my cereal.  Do you mind if I quote you to my daughter?

    Thanks again!!

    February 25, 2011 at 12:33 am
    momto2blessings
    Participant

    Heather,

    Feel free to quote if you think it will help:)  I’ve never had to follow through on any of these threats.  I do give some grace, but generally these work to get him focused.  Hope you get some more focused attention—it sounds like you’re doing the right thing by starting with smaller chunks.  Good luck:)  Gina

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