Lilly's First Day

Had to post about the new student in our homeschool class!  Although Lilly has been there from the beginning (well, since SHE'S been around) and has picked up on quite a bit already from her siblings teachings, she's now officially considered a student herself.  She's kindergarten age doing first grade work, but we tell her she's a "kindergartener".  That's the thing about homeschoolers, they really don't fit in a grade, wordly speaking.  They are often between grades either above or below...and depending on the subject.  Many kids will be ahead in several grades in reading, while at "grade level" in math or whatever subject. 

Homeschool children enjoy many of the perks as public/private schooled children.  We allow them to get school supplies, backpacks, clothes, pictures, take field trips and with co-ops they have access to classes, spelling/geography bees, science fairs, sports, proms, graduation ceremonies, etc.  The choices and events are almost endless and sometimes overwhelming.  I've really worked at guarding our family time in strategically choosing the activities that fit our lifestyle, allowing us time to be home most nights with dad and to enjoy our farm.  I used to get involved with everything I could, but with 5 children it's not realistic anymore, unless I want to end up in the crazy ward.



Having some fun with "first day" photos...


She's so excited to learn...Noah keeps saying she'll be over that soon enough, ha!


Experimenting with pattern blocks and sorting, one of the fun pieces of our curriculum for first grade.


Looking forward to another great year!