A Homeschooling Perspective.
12 Baskets Full
A Teacher’s Basket
Growing up in South Africa, the concept of homeschooling was unknown, at least in the circles we moved. It was only when on the mission field that I met a variety of families doing it. As a qualified teacher, it was an intriguing idea that very much appealed to my passions. I did all kinds of combinations and loved them all: homeschooling only, putting the kids back in a local Zambian school for grades R, 1, and 2, and then homeschooling in tandem with various overseas volunteers for the next seven years before putting them back into a local government High School in South Africa. It taught me to walk in the Spirit, trust God with every decision, and ensured epic family adventures. Then there were the unforgettable books we read, for I chose to do a literature-rich program based on the philosophy of Charlotte Mason. A brilliant and gifted teacher, she pioneered an approach far beyond her time, unknowingly impacting generations to come.
God is concerned with the heart and tells us to guard it, as everything we do flows from it. [1]. Thus, as parents and grandparents, teachers and caretakers, we should understand the grave importance of shepherding the heart of the next generation. It is this straightforward approach that undergirds the whole Charlotte Mason philosophy and Sonlight curriculum I so love. I am also an avid follower of Sally Clarkson and her daughter Sarah, whose books and blogs are invaluable tools to help us nourish our families in every season. Therefore, this month’s basket is dedicated to teachers devoted to raising the next generation, whether serving in public schools or at home. Yet, today, I will focus on home school mothers.
Let’s get practical!
A Break-away
Mothers are as close to real-life angels as you can get, yet they are still mortal human beings who get stressed, distracted, tired, and occasionally sick. A break-away from home duties, home school lessons, even from husband and kids, will do her a world of good. Please make this gift idea priority number one, especially here at the end of the year, whether for a day, a weekend, or a couple of days. There are all kinds of options, like having her kids over for the weekend, whisking her away on an adventure, or making your guestroom available. I like all of the above, although the idea of silence and solitude after a hectic year does sound like heaven to me.
I remember how such a change of pace and scenery helped me to re-focus on God. As I intentionally made sure I was putting Him and His Kingdom first, all else seemed to fall into place automatically. It was often during these times, as I did some unschooling myself, that God blessed me with new strategies and fresh insights for the year ahead — not just for homeschooling, but for our family as a whole and myself as an individual.
Mentor Mothers
I fondly remember spontaneous gatherings of various pockets of home school mothers, sharing successes and failures. Very aware that each family has its dynamics, challenges, and seasons, we were very respectful of each other as we eagerly listened and learned. I always left inspired, rejuvenated, and full of fresh ideas for the new year as I sat at the feet of godly friends and experienced mothers, for many had already trailblazed where I was about to walk. Often, a burden was lifted, a vision restored, hope generated, and a passion re-kindled.
Honing my Hobbies
Mums who home school tend to put themselves on the back burner and their hobbies on sabbatical. Whether it is a creative bend, a sports ability, or an intellectual pursuit, it is essential to know when is the right time to invest in yourself. As we steer our children through their growing-up years, a new dimension and fresh approach are often needed.
I remember taking a mid-week break one year to attend a three-day seminar on writing children’s books. It was quite an adventure, and I thoroughly enjoyed it all: the daily carpool there and back, the variety of lecturers that included university professors, publishing house representatives, illustrators, and successful authors, as well as my fellow wannabe writers. We had big dreams, little experience, and fun stories.
The End
I am sure you have some great gift ideas yourself. Please go ahead and bless a friend, a mentor, or yourself with a much-needed break!
[1] Proverbs 4:23
