Lessons, Old and New

For those who are curious, we started school again at the end of August. And I have to say, to anyone who thinks I homeschool my kids because God has somehow gifted me with an extra large portion of patience--you were obviously NOT a fly on the wall in my house during that first week! But fortunately for us all, we are finding our groove and getting into better patterns. (Most days)

One of the days during our first week, we headed over to Living History Farms for their homeschoolers day. I thought it would do us all some good to get some fresh air, and let the kids to a little hands-on learning.

A lot of what they had set up for kids to try out that day were chores that kids might have done back in that time.  I don't think my kids were too excited to learn how to beat a rug, or get a lesson in making a feather bed.  They thought this was going to be all about playing!  But, SURPRISE!  Kids back then did a whole lot more work than kids now do.  How's that for a good lesson!  (Ok, so maybe Josiah liked beating the rug more than the girls.  Anytime he can freely whack things without getting in trouble is a good time for him.)

Our time there wasn't all work, work, work.  The kids did have time to run around and explore other things.  They learned two new games--one from the school teacher, and another at one of the houses.  They also found toys to play with in the kids' bedroom in one of the houses. 

We enjoy the freedom to take a morning to go out and learn about things outside of our own classroom at home.  Homeschooling has its advantages!