Since we moved in three weeks before school started, my only goal was to make the room functional. So it totally worked for us for all practical purposes, but I really didn't enjoy being in it! It was kind of hodge-podge thrown together and didn't draw me in at all beyond what was necessary.
This summer I decided to put some time into making the room a bright, cheerful place to spend time--not just for me, but for the kids as well. So I worked hard on the alphabet wall, painted a few pieces of secondhand furniture and decor in happy colors, sewed bin and pillow slipcovers, and "shopped my house" for pieces that would tie the room in to the rest of our home. I also created a special little sitting area with a comfortable chair, table, and lamp. The afternoon sun streams beautifully into this room, and I had been wanting a place to land and enjoy it!
Now I can honestly say it's just about my favorite place in the house to be!
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| right side as you enter the room |
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| table where we work, computer desk in foreground, fabric-lined bins |
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| chair in front of art display |
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| Gracie's desk, old milk can holding posters/large maps, chalkboard made from cupboard door |
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| computer desk, printer, drawers and cupboards holding books/activities/supplies |
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| a better shot of my favorite sitting area |
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| the "gossip bench" is in here, too, on a little section of wall next to the bathroom |
We all seem to feel more settled in the room this year, which is a sweet thing.
For those who are interested, I wanted to share the curriculum we're using. I always enjoy seeing what other homeschoolers are doing, especially when it introduces me to wonderful new options.
For those who are interested, I wanted to share the curriculum we're using. I always enjoy seeing what other homeschoolers are doing, especially when it introduces me to wonderful new options.
Ian (4th grade)
- Saxon Math 8/7
- Easy Grammar 4
- Writing Tales Level 1
- Spelling Plus
(my modified version, using Susan Anthony's lists)
- A Reason for Handwriting Level C
(finishing the book from last year)
- Saxon Math 3
- Explode the Code online
- Primary Language Lessons
- modern manuscript handwriting, then on to cursive (haven't yet decided on which book) halfway through the year
- Veritas Press History: Old Testament & Ancient Egypt
(including too many books to list here!)
- Real Science for Kids Pre-Level 1 Chemistry
(then Biology
& Physics
--10 weeks on each subject)
- Hymns for a Kid's Heart: Volume One
- Big Truths for Young Hearts: Teaching and Learning the Greatness of God
- scripture memorization
linking to: The Nature of Grace
