Thursday, September 16, 2010

Home (Sweet) School Rules!

I usually let Kiran participate in the printing section.  He is working on pre-printing work.

Our home school includes all four children in one room at one time with ages ranging from 4 months to 4 years old.  It can be a challenge to stay on track.  Because I try to make the environment as relaxed as possible I don't have very many rules.  I find that because the kids get so much attention they are not always seeking it.
Play dough is always a good distraction!

While I work with Cohen (the 4 year old), my two toddlers play at the quiet table, do a puzzle, or play in the doll house.  Sometimes they want to join in and I try to accommodate where possible.

I have rules & guidelines: (Rules are for the children and the guidelines are for me.)
1. Quiet music during quiet work.  This helps to calm Cohen quite a bit.
2.Redirecting will take place when necessary.  Cohen has trouble staying on task so instead of getting upset with him for not focusing I just remember to redirect his attention.  It can be frustrating but it works.
3. No playing with Cohen during lessons (This one can be especially hard for the toddlers!)
4.Clean up after yourself
5. Get your own materials for the activities.  I like to encourage independence.
6. Make it meaningful and fun wherever possible.

I think Kiran has had enough!


5 comments:

  1. I love the look on your little ones face. I think I've had that same pose many o'times :) Visitng from THV. Have a great day!

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  2. Hi! Stopping by from The Homeschool Village. My 1st time visiting your homeschool blog! Nice to meet you! I am now a follower! :) I invite you to come visit & follow back too! Look forward to reading more of your posts! Enjoy the rest of your week! :)
    Nicole

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  3. You have some great rules that will have wonderful effects later on! Redirecting your son’s attention when needed is always a good idea. If your children learn early on to allow uninterrupted work, they’ll all develop better concentration. And helping them learn to clean up after themselves, be independent, and have meaningful learning experiences – awesome!

    http://LivingMontessoriNow.com

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  4. I agree with you, redirecting works great!

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  5. Iam a new follwer! I found you on another blog via the comments .. by the wya I love rule Number 3. I have a soon to be 5 year old , 23 mth and 28 mth old ... they can be a HUGE distraction. ;)

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I would love to hear what you have to say. Remember the golden rule!