So we talked a big talk of taking the kids out of school this year, and going on a traveling adventure… and here we are, 4 September, 2014. I have just finished day-three of home-schooling and so far, it is brilliant!  I love it, the kids love it and it will not surprise anyone that they are phenomenal students. They are industrious, willing learners and good listeners.   For this to work, we have to have the right combination of teaching and learning styles. It is early, and we have ‘many miles to go before we sleep’*… but so far, I think we are a good fit!

We created a classroom out of an under-utilized, interior sunporch in the house – a space dedicated for learning – though sometimes math will be done at the dining room table.

Our schoolroom is small, cozy and bright. Though the kids seem comfortable to move about the house, work on the floor or read in a soft chair and I like that they are expanding their space this way.

In photos above, Sophia and Oliver are both working on their research projects for this week. Sophia is studying Venice, Italy and Oliver: Ibiza, Spain. Two places that we plan to visit within the next month.

We have morning recess and snack time in the schedule, and each day we have stopped to play family kickball in the yard. What a great idea, recess!  It is our goal to spend the first two weeks at home, getting used to the routine and schedule of our school day. Then we are off to Europe for “Adventure School Abroad”.

*Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening

by Robert Frost

Whose woods these are I think I know.

His house is in the village, though;

He will not see me stopping here

To watch his woods fill up with snow.

My little horse must think it queer

To stop without a farmhouse near

Between the woods and frozen lake

The darkest evening of the year.

He gives his harness bells a shake

To ask if there is some mistake.

The only other sound’s the sweep

Of easy wind and downy flake.

The woods are lovely, dark, and deep,

But I have promises to keep,

And miles to go before I sleep,

And miles to go before I sleep.