#WordlessWednesday 10

 

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#WordlessWednesday 9

 

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#WordlessWednesday 2

 

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#WordlessWednesday 1

 

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Telling Tales ~4: #Homeschooling

 

Have you entered the first giveaway? It's HERE

Each week I'm going to try to bring a little of my experience with homeschool right here. Some of you may have experienced it, some of you most likely will...some may be fortunate enough to have everything run smoothly. In any case, I do hope you'll join me each week for some tidbits.

(Please feel free to send me your myths...I'll see if I can prove them correct or incorrect in upcoming features - socratesisdownstairs@outlook.com)

Myth #4: Homeschooling is for parents that just don't want to deal with the rules of public school.

INCORRECT -- Sort of. Here's why:

I didn't want to deal with the rules of public school and many other homeschooling parents don't want to either. But, it's not for the reason(s) you might think. I didn't have an issue getting up, feeding them, driving them, helping them with required homework, purchasing school supplies, etc. I DID have a problem with my children being lumped into one learning style...being left behind because they learned differently...being bored because it was too easy for them and others weren't learning at their pace. I DID have a problem with them not being able to express themselves, be heard, be different, have a say in the time of day they learned, and have a say when they needed a break to reset...

That being said, rules aren't a problem for homeschooling parents, a commitment to education isn't a problem for homeschooling parents, and a commitment to their children isn't a problem for homeschooling parents.

Public school would have placed my children in boxes, the same boxes as all the others, and I wanted their individuality to shine.

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Telling Tales ~3: #Homeschooling

Each week I'm going to try to bring a little of my experience with homeschool right here. Some of you may have experienced it, some of you most likely will...some may be fortunate enough to have everything run smoothly. In any case, I do hope you'll join me each week for some tidbits.

(Please feel free to send me your myths...I'll see if I can prove them correct or incorrect in upcoming features - socratesisdownstairs@outlook.com)

Myth #3: In order to homeschool, you must be a teacher/have college degrees.

INCORRECT -- The most important thing to consider when homeschooling is having the best interest of your children in mind. A commitment to their education and the ability to know and work with the different learning styles and needs your child(ren) may have. There are also opportunities to co-op with other homeschool parents (in person or virtually) and share teaching opportunities. You aren't good at English? Maybe another homeschool parent is great at it but doesn't do well with History and you do. Make a swap :) (and possibly gain a life-long friend for both you and your kids)

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Let's Play #Scrabble

 

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Telling Tales ~2: #Homeschooling

 

Each week I'm going to try to bring a little of my experience with homeschool right here. Some of you may have experienced it, some of you most likely will...some may be fortunate enough to have everything run smoothly. In any case, I do hope you'll join me each week for some tidbits.

(Please feel free to send me your myths...I'll see if I can prove them correct or incorrect in upcoming features - socratesisdownstairs@outlook.com)

Myth #2: Only religious families homeschool.

INCORRECT -- While I did come from a religious family, that ended shortly before I turned 16. I didn't even think about church or religion for years (and years). Just over the last two years have I been learning to find my faith again (yes, 20+ years later). So, for the longest time, we were a non-religious homeschooling family.

Homeschool really isn't about religion. It's about your children being provided a better education. Yes, it works well for religious families as they can choose a more bible based curriculum and/or work daily devotions into their homeschool setting.

But the main thing to remember, no matter your religious beliefs - your child(ren) deserves the best education they can get, and, more times than not, that is within the walls of your own home.

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#Costco #KidsClothes & #Pets (#dog)

 

Let me tell you - do not sleep on Costco's kids clothing. It does seem to have more for girls than boys, but still has some great items and fantastic deals.

I picked up six 3-month outfits for my grandson in 2 packs. So cute and great material.

I picked up 4 short sets for my granddaughter (5T). They had several patterns for short 4 packs and shit 4 packs. I thought these were super cute.

Of course, dog toys are always on the list for Faith ♥

Also, three summer dresses for my granddaughter (5T). One was a separate purchase and the other two were a "pack."

I will let you all know how well they like them, but they are all well made and a super deal for the cost.

In case anyone needs further proof of this being a real sale and honest review of how much I love their children and baby clothing.

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Telling Tales ~1: #Homeschooling

 

Each week I'm going to try to bring a little of my experience with homeschool right here. Some of you may have experienced it, some of you most likely will...some may be fortunate enough to have everything run smoothly. In any case, I do hope you'll join me each Friday for some tidbits.

(Please feel free to send me your myths...I'll see if I can prove them correct or incorrect in upcoming features - socratesisdownstirs@outlook.com)

Myth #1: My child won't be socialized if I homeschool. They'll only have limited interaction with adults and siblings and will have trouble when it's time for them to graduate and fight the real world.

INCORRECT -- My children have become closer. They help one another with work. This bonding was something I didn't see when they were in school. They'd come home and try to stay as far away from one another as they could. Family is important. I hope they are forming a bond they will share throughout life.

As far as socialization, there are many options.

1) Events at your local libraries (generally free, but may cost up to $3 in my experience)

2) Children's Workshops at Home Depot (these generally have a fee, however, your child comes home with a neat created craft)

3) Local School Events (that's right. Did you know your child can't be kept from playing sports at the local schools? They also can't be kept from dances such as homecoming, prom, and so on. Just be sure all your required paperwork is filled out at your school district office about your intent to homeschool and then sign them up)

4) Homeschool Groups (Larger areas have a variety of homeschool mom/children groups. Try to get into one or more. If there isn't one, look into rallying a couple moms to help you and start your own)

5) Play dates (these may seem "old fashioned" but they're still lots of fun. Bring a blanket, a picnic lunch and some friends to a weekly, bi-weekly or monthly park date)

6) Create your own events (partner up with several homeschool groups. Combine for the major events: Graduations, Homecoming, Prom and so on)

There are many more ideas and options other than those listed here. Feel free to share your own as well.

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My First #Giveaway

 

Disclaimer - This giveaway is being hosted and paid for by me. Open to US residents only.

Magic. Mystery. Time-travel. Get whisked back in time in the magic tree house with Jack and Annie in this boxed set featuring books 1-4 of the #1 bestselling chapter book series!

Meet Jack and Annie! Jack and his younger sister, Annie, are just regular kids. But when they discover a tree house in the woods, something magical happens. Jack and Annie are whisked back in time to the Age of Dinosaurs, a medieval castle, ancient pyramids, and treasure-seeking pirates.
 
Books in this set include: Dinosaurs Before Dark (#1), The Knight at Dawn (#2), Mummies in the Morning (#3), and Pirates Past Noon (#4).

The Magic Tree House series has been a beloved favorite for over 25 years and is sure to inspire a love of reading—and adventure—in every child who joins Jack and Annie!

Enter Here closes July 1 at midnight: 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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#Notebooking & Little House on the Prairie ( #Homeschool #LittleHouseOnThePrairie )

 

When I originally homeschooled, I didn't think much about notebooking. However, now that I'm working on setting up next year for homeschool, I'm seeing it everywhere. It seems that a lot of people are having success with this option.

So, I'll be looking into Notebooking and found a site that I think maybe one that I use (I'm also planning on making some of my own, as some of the things, especially involving history, I can't always find what I want on). Anyway, if you haven't checked out Notebooking Pages, head on over and give it a look.

Another neat thing I came across while searching the above link is Mom's Tool Belt. I absolutely am thinking about this binder and membership. I love that there's forever access with no renewal fees.

As far as Little House on the Prairie, I'm considering ways to work this series into my homeschooling year. I found some great options on Amazon and now just need to sort out my thoughts/plans for it. I did see it listed with the ages at the top and they go no higher than 12. I'm hoping I can use it a little past that.

There's also the Anne of Green Gables Set. I'm not real familiar with this set, but I've been told that some homeschool families use it as supplemental reading for their curriculum. (By the way, you can get a discount buying the two sets together.)

And let's not forget E.B. Web. I think, no matter how we schooled....we all read Charlotte's Web. Well, Amazon has this neat little box set of three available as well.

If you've used any of these books/sets in your homeschool, I'd love to hear about how it worked for you.

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Part 2: The Challenges and Rewards of Grandparent Caregiving #Family #Children #Grandchildren

 

Last week we mentioned some of the reasons for the rising number of grandparents raising their grandchildren. In part two, we will delve into the challenges and rewards of grandparent caregiving.

Grandparent caregiving can be both rewarding and challenging. On the one hand, grandparents have the opportunity to play a crucial role in their grandchildren's lives, providing love, guidance, and stability. For many grandparents, this role is fulfilling and brings them great joy.

On the other hand, grandparent caregiving can also be incredibly challenging. Raising children is a demanding task, and grandparents may face several obstacles along the way. For example, many grandparents struggle with health issues such as arthritis, diabetes, and heart disease, which can make it difficult to keep up with young children. In addition, grandparents may face financial challenges, particularly if they are living on a fixed income.

In some cases, grandparents may also face legal challenges when it comes to custody and visitation. Depending on the circumstances of the situation, grandparents may need to navigate the legal system to secure custody of their grandchildren. This can be a complex and emotional process.

Despite these challenges, many grandparents find grandparent caregiving to be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. Research indicates that grandchildren who are raised by their grandparents tend to have better outcomes than those who are placed in foster care. Grandparent caregivers can provide a sense of stability and continuity that may be lacking in foster care situations.

Moreover, grandparent caregiving can have positive benefits for the grandparents themselves. Many grandparents report an increased sense of purpose and fulfillment as a result of caring for their grandchildren. In addition, grandchildren can provide sources of support and companionship for grandparents, which can be particularly important as grandparents age.

Recognizing the challenges and rewards of grandparent caregiving, there are many resources available to support grandparents and their families. Many organizations offer support groups, financial assistance, and legal guidance to grandparents who are raising their grandchildren. In addition, many communities have programs and services designed specifically for grandparent caregivers.

While grandparent caregiving can be challenging at times, it can also be an incredibly rewarding experience. In part three of this series, we will explore the resources available to support grandparent caregivers and their families.

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Part 1: The Rise of Grandparents Raising Their Grandchildren #family #children #grandchildren

 

In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the number of grandparents who are raising their grandchildren. This phenomenon is not limited to one specific region or demographic group, as grandparents from all walks of life are stepping up to provide care and support to their grandchildren. The reasons for this trend are varied, ranging from issues related to substance abuse and incarceration to economic hardships and changes in family dynamics.

One of the most significant drivers of this trend is substance abuse by parents. The opioid epidemic, in particular, has had a devastating impact on families across the country. Many parents have become unable to care for their children due to addiction, leaving grandparents to step in and assume primary caretaking responsibilities. According to a report by the AARP, the number of children in grandparent-headed households due to substance abuse increased by 8% between 2015 and 2016.

Another factor contributing to the increase in grandparent caregivers is the rise in incarceration rates. When parents are in prison or jail, their children often end up in the foster care system. However, many grandparents are taking in their grandchildren to prevent them from entering foster care. In some cases, grandparents may be the only family members available to provide a stable home environment for their grandchildren.

Economic hardships are also contributing to the trend of grandparents raising their grandchildren. Many families are struggling to make ends meet, which can lead to job loss, homelessness, and other challenges. For some families, grandparents are stepping in to provide financial assistance or to take over as primary caregivers.

Finally, changes in family dynamics are also playing a role in the shift toward grandparents raising their grandchildren. Divorce, remarriage, and other family changes can create instability for children. In some cases, grandparents may be more emotionally and financially stable than the child's parents, providing a safe and nurturing environment for the child.

While the reasons for grandparents raising their grandchildren are varied, the impact on families and communities is significant. Raising children is no easy task, especially when grandparents are dealing with their own health and financial challenges. However, many grandparents are rising to the occasion, providing a safe and loving home for their grandchildren. In part two of this series, we will explore the challenges and rewards of grandparent caregiving, as well as the resources available to support grandparents and their families.

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