First Day of School 2023

We officially started school this week, although we have been doing a little bit over the summer (mostly reading and a little math) when we weren't busy with other things. Heidi and Natalie were both eager to start math a week early, so they started last week and are now ahead. Heidi usually hates math, but I guess having a new book got her excited and Natalie was just thrilled to be included in math lessons this year. We are using all the same curriculum as we used last year and things are pretty much the same as always except that we are now including Trevor in more subjects since he is in first grade and Natalie has math for the first time. We are studying Early Modern History this year (covering the years 1600-1850) so our literature and art center around that time period as well. We are covering chemistry for science and Brent is teaching Asher and Leif again this year (hallelujah!) Everyone is on their own level for math, spelling, writing, and grammar (though Asher and Leif are on the same level on the last two). The older three are all working on typing lessons as well and as always the older boys are constantly working on Lego creations, although they don't view it as school at all. They are also working with Austin to learn about woodworking. Its a full schedule, especially once you add in piano practice for the four older kids plus their various activities outside of school. As you can see from the "favorite subject" of each kid, Art is very popular, but its something I've never been consistent with. The kids have such a desire to create, so the plan is to do better this year! I purchased several books that teach about master artists and suggest projects to help mimic some of their most famous pieces. I also purchased a few online lessons that have videos showing how to do some more intricate projects mimicking master artists. We'll focus on the artists from the time period we're studying in history and I've already planned a project and lesson into each Friday afternoon.

Our first day of school was a bit stressful (mostly just for me) so Heidi was very sweet and while she had some free time, she created some drawings for me on the little chalkboards I use for their first day of school pictures each year.

 Heidi is doing ballet again this year and really likes it so far. She says that its more difficult this year since she advanced to level three, but she likes it. I'm also teaching her to sew (something that has been on-going for a couple years) and this year she is really excited to try sewing a fox stuffed animal.

Trevor is doing soccer for the first time, and is so excited that its finally his turn! He has practice twice a week, plus a game on Saturdays. He has loved both practices so far, he said because he just likes running around. He also is getting kiwi crates in the mail each month and has enjoyed doing the first one with his sisters so far.