Homeschooling: No Child Left Inside

I am so grateful for our local co-op group. The older boys take some very rigorous classes there every Wednesday. These classes are taught by Notre Dame PHD graduates and students. Between the two boys, they take Latin, Ancient Literature, Ancient History, Art and Writing. Hours and hours of homework keep them busy throughout the week. When the children were little, I didn't want much homework for them. But as teens progress into adulthood, they not only need the skills of writing thesis papers and critical thinking, but they need challenges to conquer.

Another benefit to this co-op and homeschooling in general is the presence of multiple age groups socializing together. I LOVE this aspect of home education. Yesterday, I volunteered to watch the co-op group during their lunch break. As I watched the various age groups acting like kids, yet still treating one another with great respect, my heart was warmed. Brothers and sisters, friends of a wide age range, boys and girls, all enjoying a break from classes together. Cliques are almost non-existent with these kids. Without the strong peer pressure to conform, children seem to develop the most unique interests and personalities.

If you have read any of my "pouty" posts, you may know that I have been feeling a little down this past week or two. That lunch just lifted my spirits unlike any words of advice could. It just felt right. It gave me the hope and encouragement I have been needing to press on in my purpose.