That Which Comes After….

What does one do after home educating one’s children? This was a question I began to consider when my oldest graduated high school. It was still 7 years before my youngest would graduate, but life changes require forethought. So, this is the story of what I have done.

First, one rests. Full Stop. While resting, ask the Lord for His guidance. Enjoy the unhurried loveliness of life. When a friend mentioned that I wouldn’t need to get up so early every morning to work, I was shocked, before I realized she was right! Still love those early morning hours, though.

Second, one begins to purge some of the accumulated books and supplies, sharing with friends, selling, and throwing away items. It feels so good!

Third, carry on with one’s involvement in community. You didn’t stop, did you? There are opportunities in churches, ministries and individual’s lives, those who need your care and concern.

My own experience involved about 6 months of rest before I was approached to tutor a student who was falling behind and unable to continue attending any traditional school setting. As I applied all that I had learned from Charlotte Mason’s Philosophy of Education, I watched it work in the most incredible of ways. A love for learning was sparked. Individual, consistent attention began to yield the most amazing and rapid results in every subject. Nature became therapy, which brought healing and delight. Another year and a second student, one who also had been failed by the traditional school model and had lost the joy of learning. More adjustments, attention and rapid results. “Joy in Living is a chief object of Education”, says Ms Mason. YES!!! I wholeheartedly agree. A third year, and the addition of two young men, now all in the same grade, studying, discussing, reading and encouraging one another. Then, our final year, wherein we were all striving toward the finish line, and I was customizing a curriculum to fit them each for LIFE, rather than a job.

Meanwhile, I have continued to volunteer at our local library, host a CM book club and coordinate conferences. I love this community!

Now, I have finished tutoring and I believe some new things are on the horizon including travel and some huge home renovation projects. My husband owns a company which I have helped to manage for 20 years and that will continue. More conferences to come. Stay tuned for updates!