5 Years of Homeschooling

We had our first day of homeschooling yesterday. We are still using the AmblesideOnline Curriculum following the Year 4 Weekly Schedule for my now 6th Grader. As for my toddler, I don't have a fixed schedule yet. He is still 4 yo and we still have 2 more years to make things “formal” for him. For now, we will continue with what we usually do, which I previously shared here.

As part of my preparation before our school year began, I mapped out our schedule from the beginning. I gathered books even before we begin our year and they were already stacked on the shelf, although it is not yet complete and we are still waiting for some more books. Different maps were printed out, links to our hymns and songs were prepared as well. Most of the supplies were ready. Praise God for the provision and to my supportive husband! Thankfully, there is also a very supportive AO FB Group with generous Moms who willingly and unselfishly share their personal resources which in turn benefited us immensely. I've reviewed CM's 20 Principles and listened to Audio Book of CM's Volume 1, Home Education and I am hoping to read more in the coming days.

Fortunately, I was able to attend the ON FIRE Philippine Homeschool Conference last September 22. Imagine, in my five years of homeschooling, it was my first time! I'll tell more on that in the coming days. But I am so grateful I got the opportunity to attend. I have a lot of takeout from great speakers.

So, this is what we are going to do this school year:

We have new additions to our schooling: Latin, Dictation, Grammar, Plutarch and Shakespeare's original plays. It feels overwhelming (I know) but we will take it slow and easy.

At times I still feel the lack of preparation and wish that I have more time and be more intentional. But at least, I was able to choose a pace that is only fitting to our needs and style. We can always adjust along the way (if there's a need).

Also, just to share, I finally came up with our own homeschool name which is, MARFA HOMESCHOOL ACADEMY. I think we are the first Marfa in the clan to homeschool (at least as far as I know). Our tagline is Know, Grow, Glorify from 2 Peter 3:18 (not very original).

But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen. ~ 2 Peter 3:18 New International Version (NIV)

We started our first day with cake for breakfast to make it memorable and so far, by the grace of God, everything went really well. Here's a photo of my child's First Day of the Year:

AO Year 4 Books

As we enter another wonderful journey, I pray for another great school year. For God's guidance, wisdom and provision in this work. I pray for our relationship to grow deeper as we share new experiences and new ideas together. For God to increase our awe for His world and inspire our hearts.

You might also want to read:

4 Years of Homeschooling
3 Years of Homeschooling