Outdoor Challenges to get the Kids OUT!

Some of you remember that I posted about how hard it is for me to get the boys outside.   It is still hard.  Just to be clear!  But I haven't given up!

I promised you a list of fun outdoor challenges, so, I am here to deliver!  Below you will find some fun outdoor things to do for all different kinds of kids WITH LINKS - because I need pictures sometimes.

Let me know if you do any of them and how they went!

Credit to all the great assemblers of terrific outside information!

Build an outdoor tent.  There are SO MANY different types.  I like this one. EASY!

Plant a children's garden. For lots of reasons this is a great experience for both them and you.  Start with plants that will be super successful like sugar snap peas, beans, sunflowers, radish and beets.
Here's ours! 

 Soda bottle Sprinkler!  Take your last empty bottle of soda or seltzer and attach it to your hose for some fun!

Outdoor tic-tac-toe! There are a lot of these on Pinterest, but I really liked this one for it's simplicity.

Set up a backyard pulley system.  Here's an interesting one.  I know some kids would absolutely love moving stuff back and forth with this

And if you really, really want to get in on the fun, run a MESSTIVAL in your backyard! I dare ya!!!

Getting the Kids to Play Outside Again...or not?

Every Spring, I notice we go through a period where my children need a lot of encouragement and, yes, parental pressure, to play outside again.  As they have gotten older, other more "interesting" forms of entertainment have taken over. 

I am sure I am not alone when I say that television, Youtube videos and video games play a major part in my children's lives.

 Being a nature-lover myself, when Spring does finally roll around (this year it is taking exceptionally long) I want to get out and I want the boys out there with me!

So, we annually have this conversation:
Mom: "Let's go outside."
Kids: "Mooooooom.  There's nothing to do outside."
Mom: "There's a ton to do outside! Ride your bikes, build a fort!"
Kids: "That's booorrrrring."

Eventually, I win (because I am the mom) and we go out.

I have done a lot of reading about this issue. Both online and in book form and there is a lot to say about how the world has changed since the 1970's and 1980's.  Whether it is a misconception or not (some feel it may be), many parents don't feel it's safe to let your kids wander around the neighborhood the way our parents did twenty to thirty years ago.  And there are some real dangers out there to be concerned about. I share those concerns.

And with the recent media frenzy over "free range parenting" - any parent who actually allows their kids to play in the yard (their own yard, mind you) without standing out there next to them, is afraid a neighbor might call the cops on them!

So, I ask you, what is a parent to do?

Everything seems to be consorting against us!

According to a news piece:

"A growing body of evidence is starting to show that it's not so much what children know about nature that's important, as what happens to them when they are in nature (and not just in it, but in it by themselves, without grownups). Respectable scientists – doctors, mental health experts, educationalists, sociologists – are beginning to suggest that when kids stop going out into the natural world to play, it can affect not just their development as individuals, but society as a whole."

Balance.  It's what I tell my kids.

Why can't they play video games and watch t.v. all day?  Balance, kids.  Just like grown ups, kids needs to have a balanced lifestyle.  A variety of external stimulation, the healthiest of them being outdoor play.

I am happy to report that eventually they begin to enjoy themselves outside and even find their own fun with gardening, spraying each other with the hose and digging holes in the yard (deep, deep holes).

Additionally, I have a toddler that LOVES to be outside. That makes me happy for sure.

So, this year, like every year, I will be pushing my agenda with my three boys: "get outside!" and I know one day they will thank me for it.

- Jenny

Ps I am working up a list of summer challenges for my kids to accomplish outside...forts, and scavenger hunts - which I will share soon!

Homeschooling a Middle Schooler

The thought of homeschooling my sixth grade son makes me a bit nervous.

I enjoyed third, fourth and fifth grade.  But, now that we have hit sixth grade, I have to tell you, I feel the pressure increasing.  I know I am not the only one, too.

As I talk to other homeschooling moms who have middle schoolers, we say to one another, "I hope I am doing enough," and roll our eyes looking for a reassuring "yeahhhh."

Why does this happen when our kids hit sixth grade?

Let's face it, it's a time filled with changes.

 Here he is going off to his first sleep over camp.

1. MAJOR social changes are occurring at this age.  My son has had to work through some real friendship challenges this year. Acquaintances have tricked him, teased him and there is a definitely unspoken "are you cool?" thing going on.  He has started to comb his hair (shock), care about what he wears (well, at least a little) and insist on brushing his teeth before we leave the house (even if he already did - I am NOT complaining).

2. He is looking for his VOICE.  This is that age I remember when everyone was looking for someone to "hang out" with.  Where do I fit in? What group do I belong to? As a homeschooler, I think we are spared some of this sort of pressure.  He doesn't have to choose yet between being an athlete or a word-nerd, but he is sensing the difference between his interests and his friends' interests.  "'So and so' REALLY like sports, Mom...." says my son who plays baseball, with varying levels of interest every Spring.

3. I am thinking about HIGH SCHOOL. Yeah, I have to admit it.  I am thinking about high school.  I am also wondering if I will be able to handle homeschooling high school. I am wondering if he will want to go to public school - and what I need to cover before he gets to that point so he's not totally behind.

So what am I doing this year?

I decided to utilize an online curriculum for him.  I am using Time4Learning and so far I am happy with the material. The reason I did this is because I felt I could not cover everything I needed to with Language Arts especially.

We are attending co-ops regularly with kids of his age group. We belong to two groups that have a bunch of 9-12 year olds and it helps him feel he is connected to friends who have the same interests as him.

 He continues to be involved with Boys Scouts which is a great confidence and independence builder.

What kinds of challenges are you facing with homeschooling your middle school age kids?

- Jenny

Mom I'm Bored...

I have three boys who are all different.

My oldest son has a to-do list in his head every day.  Legos, minecraft, play, tv, video games, play, legos...something like that (it's summer). At the end of the day, if he doesn't get something accomplished, he knows it and says so.

My middle son is different.  "Middle" wanders around the house waiting for something to jump out at him and say, "play with me!" He often schleps up to me and says, "Mom?? I am bored." (cue slouching and pleading look on his face).

More than not, it irritates me.

I don't know if it's because I tend to be more like the older child or because I am so busy with other things, but, just the thought of boredom is like a luxury.

I think the main reason is because I don't have any answers for him.

I actually think being bored is good for you.  I even say that to Middle sometimes.  He doesn't like it.

Let's get to the heart of boredom.  Why are kids bored sometimes?

For us, and for my Middle, it comes down to not being allowed to watch t.v. or play video games 24-7.  He likes to be entertained - easily.  So much so, that he has lost the ability to come up with something to do almost entirely.  Now, I say almost, because after a few tears and protestations, he will eventually find something to do.

He asks: "Well, then what should I do?"  At first I took the bait - I would come up with a list of things for him to do.  I should do it like my friend who if their kids tell her they are bored, she puts them to work.

Middle never likes any of my suggestions.  Any guesses as to why?

Number one is that he is disgruntled that I said no to technology.
Number two is that he doesn't really want to be told what to do.

He knows he should use his imagination.  He knows he can come up with something to do.  What prevent my son from choosing something to do is his strong desire for easy entertainment and something that I am going to war against in my home: technology addiction.

Here's the soapbox portion of this post.

It is my opinion that our kids are so used to being surrounded by technology these days - video games, television, handheld devices and cell phones, that a portion of their brain has all but shut down. The part of the brain that has to do with creativity, imagination and contentedness.  Technology is an escape and a lazy form of entertainment.  Viewers are not required to think beyond allowing the images and sounds to penetrate their eyes. Binge watching television can lead to later mental health issues too.

It's not a secret that technology is everywhere and our kids are surrounded on all sides.  So what are we to do?

I try to limit their tech time. 

We are striving to cut back as we speak.  This summer (and during my recent pregnancy) I let it get a little out of control to be completely honest with you.  By that start of school I am hoping to implement my yearly "no television before school, episode at lunch rule."  Since we homeschool, the temptation for t.v. is always there!

Also, I found that the longer my kids play video games, the harder it is for them to get off of them and to start interacting with other people in the house again. It's like they learn the ability to communicate while they are gaming! My kids have a hard time transitioning from video games to personal interaction.

I have also shared with them your concerns about how much technology time they have.  It's important to let them know you want them to be happy and healthy - and that staring at a screen 4-5 hours a day is not healthy.  My kids hate it when I say it, but, I tell them it will turn their brains to mush.

And the hardest one of all...I am trying to control my own technology habits.   I am a computer-geek.  I love to research things online and blog too. This one's hard for me - but - every time they come into the room and find me on my computer - I feel my conscience being pricked.

Hey!  Do you have any good ideas for making sure your kids don't spend too much on technology?  Tell me in the comments! I need some fresh ideas!

Playing Catch Up With Changing Children

My children are changing all the time. That's actually what I loves about parenting and homeschooling.  One day little is all about senses and the older is all about building, the next day, the little is all about drawing and the older needs to be reminded to be kind.   

And by schooling them too, I am very in tune with where they are at emotionally and mentally. 

Every single day is a new adventure.

Adventure...or challenge.  Can I get an 'Amen!'?

Usually I am a few days behind on these sorts of things. This is how it usually works:

Child is emotional and whiny. Mother raises eyebrow at child. 
Child continues to be emotional and whiny.  Mother ignores it.  
Child continues with his chosen behavior.  Mother becomes irritated.  
Child reaches a fever pitch, mother disciplines.  
Two days later...Mother realizes something is going on.

So recently I realized that my 7 year old is going through a maturity shift.  The chores and expectations that I once thought were too mature for him, suddenly seem to be just what the doctor ordered.  

"No, YOU can choose your clothes and make your bed in the morning. No, YOU can clean up after yourself. No, son. YOU are able to get and make yourself chocolate milk."

But, guess what?  Kids aren't always eager to take on new responsibilities.  He liked it the way it was with me doing it all. (He's like that.)

Time for some growing up little buddy.

I say to my husband on night, "I am working on responsibility with little.  Can we have a talk with him tonight?"

So, that night we sat down and sort of laid our our new expectations.  We lovingly shared with him Ephesians 6:1 and  explained that we expected him to move forward with a happy heart.

(Now, don't get me started on the happy heart thing.  When I was a kid, that was never asked of me and I think if I had learned it much earlier on in my life, I would have been a better person for it. That 'happy heart' stuff is hard work!)

And this, my friends, is how growth starts around here.  Once mommy and daddy catch up to the plan, we set it out as the new standard and move forward. 

That sit-down conversation is so important because it gives the child a starting point. And, you are not saying it in the middle of a discipline-moment, so they don't tune you out. 

With prayer, this will move him forward in his maturation.

What will tomorrow bring?  

The Priorties of Life - How I am Setting Them

I cannot believe how very long it has been since I updated this blog. But, I am grateful for all my followers!

Happy NewYear!

It's 2014 and of course that means reflecting on the past and making plans for the future. My minister recently said that there are two types of people in the world - the ones that say, "Yes, new year means new goals and plans - let's celebrate!" and the other ones that say: "So what? It's just another day like any other."

Well, I laugh at myself because I find that I actually fall into the second category this year.  Don't worry, I don't feel cynical about it or anything and my 2013 was actually pretty lovely. I guess I feel like life is to busy to look backward too much, to spend too much time reflecting on difficulties of the past, when life is right there waiting to be lived!

With homeschooling, being a home maker, working part time, helping my husband lead out church's music ministry and just being here on earth, I am too busy to look behind me!

But, yes, even  pragmatist me started thinking about what I would like to see happen, and although I am too chicken to write it down on a piece of paper (you know, that's making it SERIOUS), I have a few ideas.

- Increase my time and quality with God.  Regular Bible study and prayer.
- Continue to enjoy my time as a homeschooler - keeping the mood light in school, having LOTS of fun
- Encourage and lift up my husband
- Practice gratitude
- East less chocolate
-Have an amazing garden
-Camp more

and lastly...I would love to get pregnant this year. It's in God's hands.

Whatever you are, believe this:

Jeremiah 29:11

New International Version (NIV)

¹¹ For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

No matter what we plan...God already has one.  


So, are you a "celebrater" or a "cynic" ?  What are you plans for the new year?

Looking Back On Our First Year Homeschooling

I am very honest with anyone who asks me how homeschooling has been for us.  I say "It has it's ups and downs."  I say: "It can be emotionally draining."  I say: "We have learned a lot."

When I say we have learned a lot, I am not always referred to educationally based materials either. Personally, this year I have learned so much more about both of my son's characters, their likes and dislikes, their strengths and, yes, their weaknesses.  As a mom, I have been challenged to be more patient, to apologize when I blow it, to keep and open mind and practice flexibility and to put their needs above my own. 

It has been a daily positive challenge to make education interesting and exciting, but to also get the information out and absorbed into their little heads.

I am proud of Jeffrey!  He is reading, writing and doing addition and subtraction!  This was ALL I cared about this year and I am so happy he has made so much progress.

Andrew, like me, likes a ton of variety.  He enjoys science, math and writes endlessly.  He also adores drawing and feeling a sense of accomplishment at the end of the session.

Here are some photos of this year's adventures!

New England Air Museum

Stamping out sight words

Andrew's trophy for his Cub Scout Pine Car Race

Science...with a microscope

Arts n Crafts

Andrew's Lego Case

Playing in the dirt....a lot

Higgins Armory Museum

On our way to the Symphony

More sigh word fun

Marshmallows with friends...

Forest Park Zoo wind tunnel!

God bless!  - Jenny

Fine Art for our Kids!

This past week I was sick.  Mommy never plans on being sick, but there I was.  Yuck. I spent an entire day in bed.  I had to call my husband at work and ask him to come home - which I hate to do.  What do you do when you are sick?  I mean really sick. 

The next day I felt a little better, and was having homeschooling mom guilt. I should do something with them today.  

So I got them in the car and we motored up to Springfield, Mass. to visit the quadrangle of museums they have.  I provide the link below.

First we stopped at the Science Museum.  It was so fun.  We walked from floor to floor and saw everything from Native Americans, to the solar system, to how the earth's plates move (which we happen to have been studying) and then....

....the HUGE gingerbread house display.  It was so amazing.  We got to vote for our favorites (Hogwarts).

Earthquakes...

Then we had lunch in the gift shop.  It was really special.

In the garden right outside is a major display of brass Dr. Suess figures from all his best works.



... Even Dr. Suess himself.  





Blowing off some energy...





"You're a mean one....Mr. Grinch...."





Then I quickly rushed the kids into one of the fine art museums, thinking this was going to be exceedingly boring for them, but something mommy had been looking forward to.  Amazingly, they LOVED IT.  My older son became silent as he looked at the work of Monet, Renoir and other  great artists.


 
 There was a wall of pop-art too and each of my sons saw something different in it; a hotwheels race track and a city.



It turned out to be a highly educational day.  When I came home and collapsed on the couch, I felt like we had really accomplished something despite the fact that I needed a nap. 

Here is the link!  You and your kids should really go!
www.springfieldmuseums.org

Here is a link with fine art coloring pages....
http://www.coloring.ws/artwork.htm

- Jenny

Here we go...planning for homeschooling

I can't believe it's August already and whether or not you are sending your kids back to school or keeping them home, you know what August means....school shopping!  In our case this year, things are a little different.  I don't 'need to' go out and get my two boys new backpacks and lunchboxes like I do every year.  Because we are beginning to homeschool, I feel perfectly fine recycling last year's supplies.  I will however be stocking on on other needed school supplies like paper, pencils and big pink erasers.  

No doubt every family's approach to going back to school is different.  Similar to every family's homeschooling approach being unique and special, I have been learning that as much research as I do (online, in books, talking to others) I will ultimately have to come up with a schedule and plan that works best for me and my boys, and, as my homeschooling friend Juliana says, "And is fun for you too!"

 As many of you know, as I homeschool, I will continue to work as a freelance writer.  I had an article the other day and I had to take the boys with me.  It was at a one room school house in South Windsor CT called the Pleasant Valley Schoolhouse and Museum.  I thought for sure they would be bored out of their minds, but it turns out they were totally into it.  And I have to tell you, it's times like those that I say: "We going to be able to do this!  We're going to be able to homeschool!"  Not only were my fears allayed that sometimes I can drag them along to stories with me, but they surprised me with their curiosity.  

Andrew says he was "acting like a statue."

This month I will be attempting to accomplish the following:

- organize the homeschool area

- de-clutter

- make a tentative weekly homeschooling schedule

- make a schedule of what topics we will be covering over the first three months so I can be on the lookout for enrichment opportunities.

Wish me luck!