In This Issue:

1. It's Too Cold to Play Outside Again?!?!?
2. The Best Time of Day to Teach Your Kids

1 - It's Too Cold to Play Outside Again?!?!?

We have had a cold, snowy winter here in Michigan. We have snow piles that are several feet tall, the wind chill has consistently been -25 degrees Fahrenheit, many of our night and weekend activities have been canceled due to the icy roads. So... what do you do with your sons when it's too cold to let them play outside - and they're driving you crazy inside?

- Gyms - Check out your area homeschooling groups to see if they sponsor any Open Gym activities. Call area fitness centers to see if they would be willing to set up classes for homeschoolers during the afternoons, their slow time.

- Museums - It's a great time to schedule a field trip. Bundle up your kids and get them out of the house. Museums allow them to stretch their legs and learn at the same time. If you have a Children's Museum in your area, now is the perfect time to pay them a visit.

- Zoos - Believe it or not, this is also a great time to visit the zoo. Most of the animals will be indoors this time of year. You and your kids can go from one heated building to the next to view the animals in their winter quarters. Many times, zoo admission is free this time of year.

- Visiting Friends - Invite another homeschooling family to come over for the afternoon - or go to their house. Your kids will love the change in scenery and this is a great way for you to get some adult time in as well.

- Libraries - Many libraries offer free programs all year round. Call your librarian to see what they offer during the day. Also, regular trips to the library can also be a great way for the kids to get out of the house.

- Playlands - If you have young kids, meet a friend at a fast food playland. Your kids can play together in the warmth. If you order off the dollar menu this can be an inexpensive trip.

If it's warm enough, bundle those kids up and let them play in the snow. When the temperature is dangerously cold, however, it's still possible to get out of the house and let your kids burn off their pent up energy. Use your imagination and you will be surprised at how much your kids will appreciate these little trips.

2 - The Best Time of Day to Teach Your Kids

When should you teach the majority of your lessons? That depends on whether you and your kids are morning people or afternoon people. For younger children, they will usually be more alert and ready to learn in the mornings.

As your kids hit those teen years, you may find that having their mornings free and tackling lessons after lunch works better for your family. Some families even teach their lessons in the early afternoon and evenings. Many times, two-income families will start in on their lessons in the evenings.

I have found that my kids would prefer spending the majority of the morning doing their lessons and having their afternoons free. The motivation of knowing that they will have more free time if they apply themselves has really worked for us.

Also, remember to give your kids lots of breaks. Let them get up and get a drink, have a snack, go to the bathroom. Letting them take care of these bodily functions will help their minds to be able to focus more clearly without distractions.

Remember to be flexible. All kids are different. What worked well for your oldest child may not be the best for your youngest. Watch your kids to learn their body cycles. Try to find a time when they are awake but able to sit and listen. Consider teaching some kids in the morning and some in the afternoon.

Whenever you see that your kids are looking burned out try changing to a different subject, changing their body position, or giving them a break. There is no sense continuing to push your children through their lessons when their minds have shut down.

Thanks for reading this month's newsletter. I hope you enjoyed it! See you next month...

Michelle Caskey

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