The homeschooling maze

Homeschooling is like going round a maze, I'd like to think of it as one of those European garden maze in one of those beautiful castles. As in life you need to use the knowledge that you have to find the light and better if you have brought something to guide you along and keep your faith that despite this dizzying journey you'll see the light, with your children by your side, or maybe your children will be the one guiding you to the light.

It has not been easy to let go of the traditional notions of teaching, despite how liberal I thought I was, I realised I was still very conservative in my approach of teaching.It's probably my fear that my children won't be learning without those familiar boundaries I've grown up with. I am slowly starting to let go, trusting that they will learn, on their own, with me just as a guide beside them, following and leading as and when the need approaches.

Our day normally start with Quran memorisation, though the kids are still difficult when it comes to solat but we do not force them. Then, it's storytime, more of a way to get them to the schoolroom coz they love books. Sometimes we'd just have lessons based on the storybooks but usually I'd subtlely draw their attention to what I planned to teach.

For example, I'd sit beside Umayr and go " Look, a colour box. Today I think I'd match them." Then I'd start matching and ponder for a long time and usually Umayr will start matching them for me.

Ihsan loves challenges, so I'd go "I know a way to count to millions" and he'd say " I already know 999 thousand million..."I'd go on with my presentation. Sometimes he'd sit and pay attention and at times make excuses but will quickly point out the answers.I'd stop when he's really not interested and let him do whatever interests him that day.

I'd love to put up our lessons online one day, that day is a long time coming....May Allah give me the strength.