Homeschooling Journey

Part 7

Learning With A Twist

 

As I have stated in a previous article, I live with chronic illness (Fibromyalgia). There are days when I am simply not up to doing traditional lessons with my son. Add to this the typical "bugs" little guys get at this time of year (he is fighting off a respiratory/tummy virus, as I type this article). So, when I don't feel able to teach the usual way, and he doesn't feel like learning the usual way, we shift gears, so to speak. I find myself mentally sorting through our supply of alternate methods of learning.

Let's see, now: There is his quantum pad, he can listen to some info on the human body or geography, and science . There are also some computer games which he likes (also educational, perish the thought!)_ Math Blaster (math), The Oregon Trail (history), Spellmaker (spelling), Jumpstart Explorer (history/geography).

Moving along to the Television's role (yes, TV can be used for the learning process). We occasionally watch "The Magic School Bus" (lots of science, on Discovery Kids channel): "Cyber Chase" (lots of math in a cool space environment, on PBS kids): Also, one I am interested in (he doesn't care for it) is "Liberty's Kids" (the story of America's fight for independence, on PBS Kids): We have, in the past, watched "Zaboomafoo" (info on animals and their habitats, on PBS Kids).

Now for video tapes_ he really likes to watch "Bibleman" videos. These tapes focus on positive character traits I hope to see him develop as he grows into a man. We also have a set of School House Rock Tapes (Money Rock, America Rock, Multiplication Rock, Grammar Rock, and Science Rock).

We also have some fun books with puzzles/mazes in them (he really likes mazes). Sometimes we pull those out and let him "play" with them for awhile.

The list could go on, but I think I have made my point. When we have to change our schedule temporarily, there are always alternate ways of learning.

If you do not have resources at home for your child, I suggest the public library. They usually have a good selection of books, videos, tapes, and CDs you could check out. Also, look at your local thrift stores for interesting items to use. Area garage sales can sometimes be a goldmine for those searching for ways to enhance the learning experience for their child.

Now that I have listed the various ways to supplement learning, I guess we need to do just that. Time for a "Schoolhouse Rock" video!