Not sure if it’s Spring in the air (which it finally is…thank you green grass, thank you yellow daffodils, thank you little birds) or the nearing-the-end-of-the-homeschool-year fizzle, but my crew has been squabbling. I don’t like it. We really don’t have much fighting amongst the ranks, but the past weeks have been too much. I’m just going to blame it on too many grandparents spoiling the kids 
. Something had to be done and so…we worked. We didn’t get around to school each day until the garden beds were weeded and cleared, rooms clean, laundry done, floors swept, bathrooms cleaned. I think we are all energized by the work and the kids are miraculously more interested in school and getting along now than the past few weeks. Work is such a blessing.
Our work turned into fun learning….
I left some kiddos in the garden weeding while I put the baby down.
When I returned I found an arena, a pit and a few gladiator ants being run through the gauntlet. The biggest ant was fondly named Lem (Carry on, Mr. Bowditch). True…not much weeding happened when I was absent, but they were collaborating on a fun project. We also found various beetles and then identified them. Upon discovering the main meal for one variety are the ants in our garden…he was promptly released to eat his fill.
Work can be fun!
And it feels like things are right again…
Speaking of work…what do you and your kids do?
More weird fun weekly wrap-ups here.
Deon!
I just found your blog earlier this week and am LOVING it! You are one of my favorite people on the planet. You inspire me to better myself. You are MY mentor!
Work IS such a blessing. This week my kids finally started cluing in to this concept. I’ve been trying to be more consistent with our work schedule and it is truly paying off. Consistency and a calm leader/mentor (parent) are essential to effectively teach children the value of hard work.
There are my two cents in answer to your question. Love the picture of your beautiful kids. Keep in touch!
Michelle
I love the mix of dirt, ants and water! My children love that too. Play like that is also their work. And, I agree, good ol’ chore work is a great tool too. I’m right there with you. Lately, extra work (using the Magic Eraser, clearing the dishes, folding laundry) really helps turn attitudes around.
Gorgeous photo of the children holding hands. Great post!
Nothing gets on my nerves more than arguing children. Maybe it’s the time of year. – I’ve noticed more of it around our house this week.
Janet W
Maybe this is what I need to do in our family! We’ve been having some end-of-year fizzle here as well.
I think the change in the weather and nearing the end of the year has a lot to do with it. Glad to hear that getting out and getting dirty helped with the squabbling. Thanks for stopping by my blog too!