Monday, November 2, 2009

new

The room is ready. At least today's schedule is made. Everyday there will be some circle time, periods for choosing independent work, and autism activities. There are also special activities thrown in for variety. Today there will be time for painting fall things. We're also having a leaf scavenger hunt. We have a poem of the week.

Martin is so excited about the school room. We tried to make it look as much as possible like his room at Montessori. We have books and activities (our own, the tutor's, and the public library's) scattered on shelves around the room. I might even break down and get a hermit crab for elementary school verisimilitude.

This week, we're going to concentrate on establishing a school routine at our house. Next week, we'll branch out. I'm hoping to take Martin to a signing/signing choir for homeschoolers. We'll invite over some children to play. We'll have "gym" at the pool or at the college bowling alley.

So wish us luck today. Well, not just us. Wish the whole world luck today.

5 comments:

  1. Jen,

    I'm so inspired by your willingness to try this homeschooling experiment with Martin. I'm watching closely because I have also known that if school doesn't work for Ethan in the future, I would be willing to do the same for him. And that is saying a lot because I wouldn't describe myself as a person who is jumping up and down to homeschool. But there are definite times and places for that option, and I think you've made a good choice for your family. The room sounds inviting, and if Martin likes it, it must be good. Go for the hermit crab--sounds easier than fish or a hamster!

    Many good wishes for you and your family.

    Melissa S. Jantz

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  2. Thinking of you and sending good wishes as you begin the new adventure. I know you will do it well and your energy and enthusiasm will make all the difference for everyone.

    p.s. If you get a hermit crab make sure to keep it warm. We lost one over Christmas vacation because we didn't keep our house warm enough. ;(

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  3. Jen, this environment sounds so inviting, warm, stimulating and peaceful. I can sense the excitement & hope in your words for this new venture; it seems to be a confirmation of your decision that Martin is feeling it too. Your goals for this first week of school seem completely on target to me-- some structure, with plenty of wiggle room (a.k.a. GRACE) sprinkled throughout. I can't wait to hear how it goes-- sending lots of good wishes your way!
    Jen (Helmuth Shenk)

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  4. Oh man--do get the hermit crab!

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  5. Wishing luck to the whole world and especially to you! Can't wait to hear how it went.

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