Different Kind of Schooling

Officially we are on summer break, but one never stops learning.  Even if stranded in a small enclosed gray and bland cubicle, you'd probably learn SOMETHING.  Not sure what, but maybe which of your toes is the longest or fattest.  I don't know, but you get my point.  I'm often baffled about how much there IS to learn, if you really set out on that task.

Max is attending a summer camp, which is great on many levels.  Since he and I spend nearly 24/7 together, this break from each other is most welcome.  We don't really spend 24/7 together, but when homeschooling your time together is certainly more concentrated.  I have a little breathing room to tackle some projects like painting walls and staining a deck, Max has an opportunity to get out in the great outdoors and find out what's out there!

Day three of camp and he's exhausted.  So far he's been mountain biking, hiking, swimming, bouldering, has played tennis, has had open gym time, has done some arts and crafts, and has worked in a garden.  He'll go Euro bungy jumping and rock climbing yet this week.  I'm almost jealous!  He hits the pillow and is out pronto.  Such a life!

It's a different kind of learning.  He's learning about how to move his body, how to have fun with what nature offers, how to appreciate green things, how to work as a team, and how to make new friends.  It was neat walking in to camp this morning and the boys turned toward us and said in unison, "hi, Max!"  Makes me smile.

Balance is important for homeschooling families.  Balance is important in all aspects of life, really.  For moms who put together lesson plans, gather materials, sit patiently with their children while they struggle over math problems, organize field trips, get lunch on the table, keep the house picked up, do the laundry, feed and walk the dogs, look after the rabbit, rats, birds and hamster, exercise regularly, tend to the garden........ AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!  Well, a lot goes on!  That's precisely why I am reveling in this time.  Max is happy.  I am content.  It's all good.  I've even had time to dig into some books about keeping chickens - that's next.  Nuts, huh?  Maybe I shouldn't be allowed these breaks because that's when I plan the next crazy adventure.  Hmm.  Something to think about.