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We started Preparing with our 10yo last August. We had a baby in September, took too much time off, and were very inconsistent (having four little ones in addition to the one being schooled is hard). We did math (we use MUS) everyday and he read from 'fun' books, but we didn't do HOD everyday. If we school through the summer, we can be finished with Preparing in October. I'd like my son to stay on schedule with the new books, so he can finish up the last one in the rotation and start "high school".

So, should I try my best to get Preparing done by October or slow down and finish it in December? I'm very unorganized and relaxed, which means it usually takes us one and a half school years to do one year's worth of work. If I finish in Oct, I would just start CTC the week after we finished, take few breaks and be done in mid-June. I just don't want to push it off so that he's 15 when he finishes "Modern Times", the last book in the 4 yr cycle.

I'm so upset with myself, but don't know how to fix this.

Don't be too hard on yourself. You have a large family with many little, needy ones, and you've taken on the enormous task of educating your oldest. I would try to establish some kind of schedule or general routine to your day. Maybe have your oldest do the independent work in the morning while you attend to your little ones. Then in the afternoon, everyone goes down for naps or "rest" time and you do the together portions with the oldest when it's quiet. The little ones need to learn that school for their big sibling is very important and they must stay quietly in their rooms while you're schooling. They can be trained to do that. You could supply them with books or other quiet activities if they don't nap. I do think it is important to show your oldest that his/her education is a priority and of great value. If it gets put off anytime something else comes up, it sends a wrong signal that it is low on the priority list. That being said, you have a lot on your plate. Start each morning with a big cup of coffee and a fervent prayer for strength for the day.
God bless you as you take care of your sweet children.
Laura

Motherjoy wrote:We started Preparing with our 10yo last August. We had a baby in September, took too much time off, and were very inconsistent (having four little ones in addition to the one being schooled is hard). We did math (we use MUS) everyday and he read from 'fun' books, but we didn't do HOD everyday. If we school through the summer, we can be finished with Preparing in October. I'd like my son to stay on schedule with the new books, so he can finish up the last one in the rotation and start "high school".

So, should I try my best to get Preparing done by October or slow down and finish it in December? I'm very unorganized and relaxed, which means it usually takes us one and a half school years to do one year's worth of work. If I finish in Oct, I would just start CTC the week after we finished, take few breaks and be done in mid-June. I just don't want to push it off so that he's 15 when he finishes "Modern Times", the last book in the 4 yr cycle.

I'm so upset with myself, but don't know how to fix this.

It IS busy with many little ones around, and your ds is still in the age range for the guides, so things are still alright! I know a baby brings joy to a home - but also takes much time and energy, leaving mom often tired (at least that is how I felt this last baby). You are going to have many little blessings to think of during your day, and yet an older child that really does need to be doing school now. I do think it is very manageable to handle this in the day to day with a little batting around of ideas here on the board - the ladies are so great at helping here. So, I have just a few questions for you - What unit are you on in PHFHG? How much time could you realistically devote to homeschooling ds each day and how many days a week? By what date do you really want to finish PHFHG? If you could answer just those few questions, I think we can figure out a great plan to fit your goals. No worries here yet - you are still on track to give ds a great education!

In Christ,
Julie

Oh I couldnt read your post without stopping to give you some support.I think its tempting to panic and try and 'crash diet' our way through sometimes instead of looking at a gradual more managable change ,building up everyones schooling muscles.Dont panic-Im sure the kind ladies here will help you figure out a schedule
God Bless

MotherJoy,

If you get a chance to pop back in with your thoughts, we'd be glad to help you any we can!

Blessings,
Carrie