The Happiness of Habits
By Linda J. Cole In Ecclesiastes we read: "To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven" (chapter 3 verse 1). This is very applicable not only in our every day lives, but also in home schooling. All through the day there is time to have our children gain knowledge from our lips, out attitudes and our example. As we discuss establishing structure, the habit of observation, and example being the best sermon, you will see how time and tendency play an important role in learning. Establishing StructureThe structure of the classroom environment for the home school parent can vary greatly from that of the traditional classroom structure set in our schools. There, the classroom environment is set ant the day follows the same routine, scheduled by the bell. Structure is not pre-set for the home school parent.We must be attentive to maintaining the tendency toward a regular structure for the sake of the developing and disciplined life as well as a pleasing atmosphere in the home. This discipline, along with the help of inspiring and creative ideas, strengthens a child's will to obey and follow the structure set forth by his parents. He then is participating in his learning and creating a great opportunity in the ability of being self-disciplined, self-motivated, and self-educated. Establishing structure in our home school day brings daily opportunities to live out our philosophies and beliefs with our children as we cover not only curriculum but God's Word in our lessons. The Habit of ObservationObservation is a valuable tool to the home school parent. The book of Proverbs tells us to "know the state of our flocks," which is accomplished by observing our children throughout each day. Sometimes we haven't developed that habit, or it is pushed aside by the busyness of our daily schedules.Nonetheless, this is important for each and every parent. When we "know" our children (that is, the tendencies and characteristics God has instilled in them from birth) we can help guide him in "the way he should go." The observation needs to be developed in our child as well. As we regularly make observation a part of our home school structure we create a habit for our child to embrace and use in his own life. This enhances his educational experience and helps him to be aware of God's presence in the world around him. Observation can be incorporated easily into the home school structure through drawings, essays and reports added to the regular lessons. Field trips are excellent opportunities to teach observation to our children as well. These are times in which we can observe them and learn, too. Example is the Best SermonDuring the home school day our children many times will come across a biblical principle being taught in his curriculum. As parents, we encourage them to incorporate that principle into his daily life, but being a proper example may be one of the hardest tendencies for us to develop and maintain.Yet, this is the most important habit to have. There are so many examples of this in nature and God's Word to show our children, but our children will learn the most from our example. Let's strive in our own personal life to follow the Lord's example through prayer and faithfulness in His Word so we can pass on those good habits to our children. What good habits have you built? Click here to find more helpful hints.
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