What a year!

This year has been a productive one so far! Devon and Rob both started the year in public school with home school as a supplement. Devon injured his back and we started homeschooling him full time. We tested him to see where to begin, set up a curriculum that includes everything required by public schools and adds a few key things, then set to work. At first, we kept a schedule similar to the public school, but soon learned it takes 15 minutes to engage in a new subject. 45 minute classes just do not cut it with his learning style. We adjusted to a schedule closer to what he will see in college. We spent some time learning how to study, a subject I feel public school should find a way to fit in somewhere. Devon earned the privilege of having free study time to work on whatever subject he would like. Seems so far to be his most productive time.

We studied history through leather working. We worked through an Algebra book. We set up an online forum to keep in touch even when the kids want to visit their grandparents. We planted okra and joined our neighborhood farming co-op. We learned about healthy eating and where our food comes from. We free cycled many many things this year for art and useful things around the classroom and our home. We studied anatomy and physiology because Devon wants to become a nurse.

When Devon turned 16, we also allowed him to start a work/study program. He got a part-time job working as a Fuller Brush salesman. It is a bit of a family tradition. He is 4th generation.