Days like this I don't stress schoolwork too much. I would rather my kids spend their time outside than inside working in books. Some people might think this is negligent, or lazy, but I view it much differently. In my opinion, there is a wealth of learning that happens outside.
When you step outside, it feels like your mind automatically clears. All the things that were weighing you down inside suddenly seem lighter, and you can see things with fresh perspective. There's less stuff vying for your attention. Outside there's no TV or computer, no phone ringing or radio playing. The only music is the birds singing, the wind blowing the leaves and the occasional percussion of a barking dog.
Outside my kids stop and notice tiny little bugs. They watch what they do, how they move. They try to guess what kind of bug it is. They give it sticks to see if it will climb, and dirt to see if it will dig. They listen to bird song and try to answer it. Then they look in the trees to see if they can spot it. They notice tree leaves and different kinds of bark. They find deer prints and acorns and pine cones and rocks. They play pirates and horses and dogs and farmers. They run and jump and climb without any Phys Ed class to tell them when and how. Outside they never fight and they never need me to tell them what to play.When they come in they are dirty and tired and very, very happy. We get baths and some lunch, then naps for the little guys. Then Gracie sits with a book and reads, and really focuses and thinks, because her mind is cleared from playing outside.
I think being outside is one of the best things about homeschooling. While other kids are inside a stuffy classroom, mine are running wild out back with no bells or lines or rules. Outside is a gift I can give them while they are young and need it most, one I hope they will always remember.
So true! We are loving this weather!!!
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