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heidimomof7
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| Posted: Sept 10 2008 at 2:21pm | IP Logged
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I know many have posted here before about feeling overwhelmed trying to homeschool and raise a large family, but I need some feedback that will help reassure me that my children will learn what they need to under my care. I have four boys aged 12 to almost 7, one girl who is five, then two more boys 2 and 1. We have used MODG as a guide all these years, though I have to say we needed to make some adjustments and omissions. I am finally noticing independent learning with my oldest two boys (keeping track of their assignments, trying to finish their work load, and even completing outside reading), but my 4th grader (3rd son)still resists most of his assignments and my almost seven year old still doesn't read well. My little girl should be in kindergarten this year, but we've only covered three letters because I have such a hard time squeezing in time for her. I read aloud to her and whoever else is listening several times a day, but I feel guilty that I don't spend nearly the time with her that I did with the first. I have family who make me feel like I'm doing her and the babies an injustice by keeping all the others home. I'm committed to homeschooling, but I need to hear from others whose kids have "made it" successfully through homeschooling without the picture perfect curriculum. Thank you! Heidi
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Kristie 4
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| Posted: Sept 10 2008 at 3:33pm | IP Logged
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We haven't made it all the way through  but we are in our 8th year, and yes homeschooling can be overwhelming at times.
First off, big hugs here. I have a much smaller family, but still with four I have gone through many of your feelings at times.
I still feel like my youngest didn't get what the first did- the endless books, fun hands on stuff, heaps of nature walks etc. I have had to accept that each child has his/her perks in the birth order but at the same time make some space in the areas I feel that child needs me. Last year at one point I could tell my then 4yob was feeling more than a wee bit left out. I realised I was working on a very top down system- reading at the older kids level and the youngers just listened in (this is my default in books!). So I switched it up- I picked some books my son loved, made them top of my morning and set up a new batch of playdough. I walked with him while the kids were working on some of their subjects etc. I didn't keep this up indefinitely but the surge of special attention as well keeping this issue on my own radar helped to smooth the situation. It doesn't mean it won't resurface, it has at times, but I try to remember to be more thoughtful in that area.
For what it's worth, I only really worked on actual 'school work' with my first 5 year old, sort of following CM/MODG. I was eager, and he was my only formal student. The next 3 five year olds have recieved specific teaching only if they are requesting it (yes, my ds now 8 was one of those types). Otherwise they get snuggles, books, space to play and explore and exposure to any of the things the older kids are doing that they are interested in.
Remember Heidi that your other kids are providing stimulation, interaction, love, etc. for your littles that your family is probably not taking into consideration. I remember my parents feeling the same way with my last two babes. But living the full life together is about so much more than 'quality time'. The day in day out living on the good days, and the ugly days, is an education in itself. It works itself out, by God's grace, into something more precious than we can imagine.
Big hugs here, and sorry for my ramblings...
__________________
Kristie in Canada
Mom to 3 boys and one spunky princess!!
A Walk in the Woods
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heidimomof7
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| Posted: Sept 11 2008 at 8:16am | IP Logged
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Thank you Kristie,
I appreciate your timely and encouraging response. Heidi
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teachingmyown
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| Posted: Sept 11 2008 at 1:28pm | IP Logged
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Hi Heidi,
I hesitated answering your post because I still struggle with being overwhelmed after 12 years of homeschooling! My kids range from 17 to 8 months.
I know well those "guilt" feelings regarding your little ones. This year, I am making an extra effort to make sure I do at least some "little" kid stuff with them each day. From singing to playdough to read alouds. I doesn't have to be a lot of time. Everything Kristie said is so true. Your little ones get so much from their siblings that the oldest ones couldn't get just from you.
If you are following MODG even roughly, I am sure your kids are getting "enough". I still struggle with picking something and sticking with it, so I do worry about big gaps in my kids' education.
In the end, I think we just need to trust God's plan for our families. He gave us all these kids and put the call to homeschool on our hearts. Each day, I am trying to remember to call on His help first thing, before I get discouraged. Not too sure it is working this year, but I will persevere. 
By the way, I just have to tell you that I am the only girl of seven children, just like your daughter!
__________________
In Christ,
Molly
wife to Court & mom to ds '91, dd '96, ds '97, dds '99, '01, '03, '06, and dss '07 and 01/20/11
Remembering Today
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heidimomof7
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| Posted: Sept 13 2008 at 2:19pm | IP Logged
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Thank you so very much as well Molly. I have days when I feel more assured than others, and it certainly helps to have the kind of feedback you and Kristie gave. I have a few other moms with "more than the usual" amount of children who also provide support, but I need more sometimes. God bless you! Heidi
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4Real Forums : Living Learning
Topic: Feeling overwhelmed
