I have been hit with a curve ball. There are 3 different homeschooling groups in our area. We attended one last year and it didn't seem to be our fit. So, I really wanted to get into the one closer to home (Saratoga). When I called and requested information I was told they probably didn't have enough room for us to join this year. So, I joined the 3rd one (Latham) which by the way is extremely expensive and huge. The cost is what was going to keep me from joining but we did it and now its paid for. My kids are so excited about that one. I signed them up for drama, art, tae kwon do, 4H, and kin-ex. Its an all day program from 9-3 or 4. They eat lunch there and everything. Yesterday I received a phone call from the leader of the Saratoga and was told there was room for us to join. My kids are only going to be taking one class which is IEW writing. Which we desperately need here! Writing is NOT my strong point, so I am even taking the class with them. Here is the problem they are going to be in two homeschooling groups. How do I make it work on my end...... I have 3 days to teach a curriculum that is for 5 days. I have purchased the Oak Meadow curriculum how do I make this work??? Saratoga group meets Tuesday's Latham groups meets Thursday's Remember I work outside the home. I get home around 9 or 9:30am them I am due back at work at 1:30. My mom is my right hand in all of this and will meet me at the groups so the kids can stay. I generally teach the kids with the things they need help with and the rest they do when I go back to work. If they fall short on that part its another curve ball.....
It can be done, I know lots of folks who do things like this. The kids will need to be in a routine that will maximize what they can do on their own. What time do the kids get up? If they get up at 7:00 then if you leave work out they should be able to get a bunch done before you get home. If you are doing writing with Oak Meadow you may want to not do the weeks that go along with when you are doing IEW. Start schooling now or in the next couple of weeks. This is what we do, we start in August inorder to get a bit ahead. Let them know that doing the fun classes is dependent on what they are able to get done at home. Also remember that technically in NYS you are only required to finish 80% of your planned curriculum so if you do not finish history or science by the end of the year you should still be fine.
Also, you have 3 1/2 days, not three. And, at least in my house, that half day makes a big difference. (Working under the assumption that the second group with the one class doesn't take all day)
I would even say you have more days if needed, the weekend. They can be light catch up days if you absolutely feel that something needs covered that you did not get to.
I think much of the OM they will be able to work through while you are at work, also they can do some of the reading in the car to and from the groups. Remember homeschooling is all about making it work for YOU, if you don't finish the OM, then have some light summer school until it's all done. No big deal. You can do this!!
Thanks for the encouragement..... Sometimes I just feel like my plate get's too full the anticipation of what is to come I think is getting to me especially after having the summer off. I go from one extreme to another. Working, Schooling, and extra programs at night to kids in full day camp and not working. I know what just around the corner and wow, it has me stressing..... Thank you and YES I can do this. I have to remember why sometimes.
If they are doing drama, art, 4H and writing somewhere else, it takes science, art, and writing off your plate - you don't have to teach as much of those on your days with your kids - focus on Math, grammar, history, and then supplement the co-op classes with your Oak meadow curriculum and try to enjoy all these neat opportunities your kids have this year!
