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We're back to "school" this week AND it is going so well. In fact, it is radically different than previous years. I wanted to share what we're doing in hopes that it might be a blessing to someone else.

My total focus this week is math, grammar and dictation and getting everyone into the rhythm of the new chore schedule and learning where to put things, find supplies, take care of the toddler. The boys have also done a "little" inddependent reading.

This has really worked! The simplicity of the schedule has allowed everyone to be successful and not overwhelmed. Everyone feels like they are really on the ball. And I've had time to think every day about what is or isn't working and what we or I need to address. I've even set up a notebook for myself with a section for each child that has all the goals for each child and the current goal or habit we are addressing. I can add comments and make note of what we need to work on for the future. This is instead of working on "many" things at once with a child. the notebook helps me remember and not become distracted by all the issues that need addressing. Make sense?!

Florence,
This is how I usually start school as well. This year I also took advantage of my older three being gone the first week of August and started my 9 & 10 yo sons that week. So those 2 have had school for two weeks now and we have gotten into a great groove. Now it will be easier to add in my 13 yo dd and 15 yo ds on Monday. A friend of mine who has 7 kiddos has always staggered their start dates so she could get her more teacher intensive ones going before adding in the rest. We also have always done MFW and everyone has been all together, so the need to start together was always there. It is so freeing to have them all in their own guides and able to go on their own!! I am really loving it!

Sounds like a great start!!!

Glad to hear it! I started last Friday
And while one of my dd's was dawdling through the work, the other got her chores done I'm finding my pace too it's not fast but it is steady!