"Education is an atmosphere, a discipline, a life. When we say that "education is an atmosphere," we do not mean that a child should be isolated in what may be called a 'child-environment' especially adapted and prepared, but that we should take into account the educational value of his natural home atmosphere, both as regards persons and things, and should let him live freely among his proper conditions. It stultifies a child to bring down his world to the child's' level.
By "education is a discipline," we mean the discipline of habits, formed definitely and thoughtfully, whether habits of mind or body. Physiologists tell us of the adaptation of brain structures to habitual lines of thought, i.e., to our habits.
In saying that "education is a life," the need of intellectual and moral as well as of physical sustenance is implied. The mind feeds on ideas, and therefore children should have a generous curriculum." -Charlotte Mason
As mentioned in the previous post, our first official week in Kindergarten was idyllic. Our second week- not so. Surely the whole week was not a bust. We enjoyed several rich experiences and delights. Monday, the boys and I explored Bolsa Chica Wetlands. Isaak came across this-
We did not have our field guide with us and I could not identify it. I did, however, have my camera. Isaak suggested that we take a picture of it and investigate when we got home. And that we did. We found out that it was a RED VELVET ANT. After learning about this creature, Isaak documented it by drawing in his Nature Journal.
Tuesday we met up with our favorite friends, our Nature Study group at Gum Grove park. It was a wonderful day. Upon our arrival, the gates to the nature area were locked. I called the Seal Beach Police Department and they sent an officer to unlock the gates for us. Which led to an impromptu lesson from the Police Officer. Our students were entranced. We then enjoyed a day of discovering. This caterpillar was just one of the treasures of the day.
Thursday, Isaak and I enjoyed some time together strolling around El Dorado Park's duck pond. We went there with a purpose. To collect as many beautiful feathers that we could find. We also enjoyed identifying a few birds by name. We took the feathers home, cleaned them, and set them out for observation and discovery.
Scattered throughout our week, we also enjoyed: painting projects- discovering tint & shade, some French, learning our monthly poem- Autumn by Florence Hoatson, reading, + concepts in math and copywork (writing.) In looking back, it seems that we had a pretty productive week. However, as Charlotte Mason declares "Education is an atmosphere, a discipline, a life." And I will confess, the atmosphere surrounding our week was less than ideal. We struggled with the discipline of a consistent rhythm to our days. And our lives were hardly filled with a "generous curriculum" in which to feed on. Sure, I may have lofty expectations. But is that wrong? I am learning. Through our second week of homeschooling, I have learned. Some days just don't end up the way you planned. Doctor's appointments and other assorted interferences happen. And prevent the daily rhythm you so desire. I have learned. Character formation + habit training take much longer and are much more effort than "curriculum." I have learned. Sending your student to the principal's office is not an option. I have learned. Lessons don't always go as planned. I have learned. Ordinary moments have extraordinary possibilities. To stop & savor and set aside your agenda can turn a mundane moment into an educational delight. So as we move into our third week, I pray. For guidance and wisdom. In thanksgiving. For friendships with a group of like minded mother's in which to draw from. And I go forth in peace. With hope. Knowing that right now, this is His plan for our family.
No comments:
Post a Comment