Is winter rough on everyone, or just me? I really require lots of sunshine and light, but this year we are not getting it. What we are getting is a lot of rain. This has somewhat put a damper on our homeschool because it is so gloomy who feels like doing anything? Not me.
That is why I had to come up with a few different ways to homeschool through the winter. You know, spice it up a bit. This winter I am going into survival mode and am determined to not get the blues. Trying to help the kids remain positive and have fun while learning.
There are quick ways to homeschool and get the work done. It is still efficient, and at least for me I don’t feel like we have to spend the entire day with books. If I can throw learning in with many short forms then that helps us to do reviews. Quick tidbits allows me to keep reminders on an index card then review through the day.
Quick Forms Of Homeschool In The Winter:
- Play. If I let them play with Star Wars toys (quietly) while I read a book they are more likely to remember when I ask them questions. Especially with boys I have found if they can keep their hands busy then their minds are open.
- Crafts or coloring. With lessons I try to incorporate a coloring page or craft that is relatable. Then we can look at some pictures on the internet. As we wrap it up I will ask them what is the one thing they remember about the Japanese flag for instance….then they tell me that it has a red dot on it.
- Activities. For science or history maybe we do an experiment, or dress up like the person we are learning about. Something quick and easy, and maybe it will involve dressing up or props. But it will definitely be quick. We still make time for our bookwork.
- Bookwork. Look at what actually needs to be done and then cut the rest out. Not everything in the book needs to be finished. They will remember the important parts. See what they are interested in and hone in to that fact or idea.
- Q& A. Some days I will just have a Q&A session to let them ask me about what they are learning. My four year old likes to think he is the teacher on those days.
Various Ways To Teach:
- Watch a movie that is relatable. Then talk about the characters and if they can’t read or write then have them draw a picture of the movie.
- Reading. Go to the library for a change of scenery and read some books on the topics that are being worked on. Bring index cards for quick notes to review.
- Review. Everyday or week review what is being learned. This can be done through games or movement.
- Music. Put some ideas to music. Have the kids write a song about what they have learned.
- Ask the kids. Give them an idea of the lesson and ask how they would like to show or work on learning it. Whether it be art, music, games or whatever. Then at the end of the homeschool day have them compile their list and put on a show.
Our family has been homeschooling for several years now, but I am no means an expert. I don’t think anyone can ever claim they have all of the answers because every day is a new learning experience.
Do you feel like you homeschool differently in the winter? Follow me on Facebook for more mom ideas and tips.
Cheers,
Michelle
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