A little something extra to break the norm.. Clearly define mommy and teacher

[luluwe]

When homeschooling it is sometimes hard to be both mom and teacher. I have both my kids at home (6 and 13 months). While I have a curriculum for the 6yr old, I don't have much of a structured day for the little one, being she is so young. She shows much curiosity for the things around her and while it may not be mandatory, I am looking for a structure of activities I can make available to her every day to increase development. I plan on homeschooling her as well so It wouldn't hurt to get her used to a curriculum structure as well. Any ideas? the main goal for this is for her to play and learn and a chance for mommy to be mommy and play along!

 

[tankgirl73]

ARGH I had a long post but the internet ate it.  In brief:  Look into Montessori.  Two books to start with: Montessori in the Home: The Preschool Years, and Teach Me to Do It Myself.  I gave a few paragraphs about "why" and our own experience with it.  But now I'm too annoyed to do it again lol... 

[SweetSilver]

I think the best "curriculum" one can give a 13mo is a daily rhythm.  Have a storytime at the same time each day.  When it's time for 6yo lessons, pull out the block crayons and some paper (perhaps something reserved for just this time).  Prepare lunch together.  Time for chores!  Let them play/work alongside you.  Make your own activities the lessons.  Waldorf has some good philosophies about rhythm, which they liken to breathing.  So, after your 6yo's table time, have a really good physical activity, even it's just dancing to some rock'n'roll because it's 0 degrees outside.  Then have a quiet activity, followed by a nap for your little one and storytime for the 6yo (a really great chapter book that your littlest is to impatient to sit for?)  Keep daily rhythms, weekly rhythms too.

That's the kind of "curriculum" to have.  Have a few really good-quality toys, like blocks, and that's homeschooling a 13mo!

The Montessori catalog For Small Hands has an amazing collection of child-sized tools and household items.  Very nice!

[morjuli]

While there are many external options that may work great for you, you may want to try something that you can implement yourself. it seems like you want an opportunity to play with your kids in an efficient way that promotes development as well. About two days ago I came across an article on a blog that talks about a educational toy service. It seems to be unlike anything else I have seen before. Here is the article if you want to take a look.

http://humptydumptyparent.com/page/why-buy-toys-when-you-can-rent-them-907