Every Year is Different

Kids change, culture changes...even we as parents change. Every year is different. So, every year of planning and implementing our homeschool is different.

Each year I evaluate what my kids' needs, goals, and dreams are. Do they need supplies for a new hobby? Do they need to spend time preparing for entrance exams? Do they need to do a more unschooling approach for a topic this year? Are there ways to integrate volunteerism into their year that targets their learning goals at the same time? Do they need more downtime or more engagement time? Do they need more individualized courses this go-round?
So many questions. So many exciting possibilities!

As the culture changes, new opportunities or priorities emerge. For example, with our country's very dire political situation, I emphasized civics engagement this past year when I taught American History, Civics and American Government. This mindset affected what curriculum I chose to use and our daily activities. I wanted my kids to understand the intricacies of government, which led to sharing news stories the next day in class. I had never done that before. We even spent three days watching, evaluating, discussing and applying our learning to the most recent State of the Union Address.

My habits changed dramatically in the last two years. For one, I now prioritize self-care. I exercise more. I radically changed my eating habits. I rest regularly. For this past year, these changes meant that after lunch I rested on the daybed, while still being available and supervising the children. It affected our schedule slightly, but afforded me more energy and focus. I became a better teacher. My children had minds ready for learning when the time came around, which was a big unexpected bonus.

The message? I don't expect what worked last year to work this year. I don't think I have to keep things the same every year. I try to enjoy the joys of the current year, knowing things will change eventually. Embracing this bittersweet reality has enabled me to be more fully present with my family and feel more deeply the good, the bad, and in-between...and my family and I are better for it.