After a fantastic Homeschool Mastery Group call this morning, I was asked how I’ve been planting the seed. Here’s what’s worked for me this year with household chores (upon reflection there are way more things I could do/say better), and maybe just starting point for inspiration for anyone reading!: ➡️ I vocalised my daily tasks, modelling aloud what I do. ➡️ I used “responsibility” and “contribution” instead of “jobs” or “chores” (though my kids still prefer the latter!) ➡️ I’d say, “I wish I could play, but X task needs doing right now....” ➡️ I asked, “Want to help me finish X faster?” or said, “I’d really love some help with this.” ➡️ I didn’t expect their help but showed extra gratitude when they offered. ➡️ I let them choose their role as Chief Executive Officer and take charge of something they wanted!

My gift this year (01.01.2025) - is again related to the hard work of last year finally paying off - of setting expectations - talks of responsibilities and contributions to the family. This is Paisley - in her words - "For you Mummy!" She has selected her 'chore' and it was all her, all self initiated, self inclined….. and no push or no deadline given, just talks and positive words of working together... the result = priceless.

This was me reporting to my husband the win for the day... 31st Dec 2024... worth a share as a reminder to us all... the hard work pays off, and sometime it takes a while... and even though the journey can be tough - the rewards speak for themselves!

This group can go in a million different directions that are helpful to us as homeschool parents. But one of the most important factors for me is understanding where you would most like help, so I have some thoughts on different areas we could go: (If you have some other ideas, just drop them in the comments 👇)

The most expensive part of a child’s education is trying to undo and correct problems that could have been avoided. When we get it wrong the first time we have to turn around and backtrack, before we can make progress forward. It not only costs us time but also money. It’s also likely to put strain on relationships. When it comes to homeschooling, an ounce of preparation is worth a pound of implementation. The most valuable thing you can do is avoid mistakes that you’ll have to walk back later. So if homeschooling just right, takes a while, requires consultation, keeps you up at night, or whatever other problem you can think of, then just know the effort will be worthwhile. Be sure that the work you put in will not be a cost but an investment, and the savings of avoiding doing it wrong would be hard to calculate. As we approach the new year, I look forward to boldly working together to avoid mistakes that will waste our limited resources and instead craft the perfect Homeschool program for our families. Merry Christmas!!!