As a veteran home-school mom of over 25 years, I thought it might be nice to start a series sharing some of the things I learned in the trenches. It will also give an opportunity for other home-schoolers to comment and share their experiences, as well as assist those who are contemplating home school.

Let’s begin at the beginning – that is – the beginning of the day.

Some moms like to go with the flow. I fell into that at one point, and it always led to a disorganized day. After determining in my mind to start at a specific time, (with allowances for sickness of course) it was much easier to accomplish everything.

1. I would arise at 6:00 am, (sometimes with an infant) and clean myself up, dress appropriately, and spend 15 minutes in personal devotion to the Lord. Also – care for the immediate needs of any pets.

2. Wake children at 7:00, get them cleaned up and dressed for the day, and all eat breakfast together at 7:30.

3. Spend one hour doing household chores. Age suitable – even a four year old can run a small vacuum. If the weather is warm, the garden also gets inspected during this time.

4. Have Bible study with the children. I used A Beka Bible flashcards for ages 6-13. (To say they loved those flash cards would be an understatement) Younger kids play with Bible felt books and puzzles on the floor, or Bible coloring pages seated at a kiddy table,  at the same time.  Interesting to note – when the young ones were ready to take part – they requested to sit- in with the “big kids,” and sat with rapt attention.  It was a natural transition from “milk” to “meat.”  High schoolers have independent, guided Bible study.  Bible study is the single most important part of your school day!  

5. Morning break – consisting of a light snack ( hot chocolate with a graham cracker or fruit) but it really helped us get though the morning!

Money saving idea –  A spray bottle can be filled with water to the base of the neck, then a squirt (approximately a teaspoon) of dish-washing liquid, (I use Dawn) then the rest of the bottle filled with isopropyl rubbing alcohol. This home-made spray cleaner will clean glass, mirrors, counters, tile, washable painted walls, bathroom tile, and vinyl floors – and will remove stubborn wax coatings from fruit – with no noxious fumes! I buy the alcohol in huge bottles from Sam’s or Costco. It saves a huge amount of money over store bought cleaners.  An added bonus – this cleaner is completely safe for granite counters, unlike cleaners containing vinegar or ammonia.  Will also kill mildew!

She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.

Proverbs 31: 27

Next week we will cover the second part of the day.  Divide and conquer!