It’s August and the three older kids are back in school.
They begrudgingly returned to alarm clock wake-up calls every morning. Inevitably, at the beginning of every school year at least one of our children asks me (whining), “Why do we have to go to school?” I then launch into the parental speech regarding the importance of learning to read, write and to do mathematics. It typically escalates into the importance of education to prepare for adulthood.
When the whining about going to school doesn’t come to a halt, we tell them truancy is illegal and they have to go or there will be serious consequences, the conversation is over.
Our kids do like school. We are blessed with some great teachers and they’ve made wonderful friends. I’m amazed at how quickly they’ve all learned to read and write. It’s something we started at home with them and it’s blossomed at school. The first time each child read ME a story, it was a gift.
There are some things the kids can’t learn at school.
This past summer, my husband has had our 6-year-old son in his hip pocket every night after work and every weekend. For some reason, this child is gifted with curiosity.
Much like his dad, he has developed a talent for mechanics. In the midst of all their time spent in the barn and at the farm, our oldest son convinced his dad to show him how to mow the grass. Our kids are not average size for their age – they are short and skinny. I was driving one of our daughters to camp and received a video text of the little guy driving a zero-turn lawnmower over acres and acres of yard! It was hilarious and amazing to see this little person taking on such a big responsibility.
We’ve decided this particular child asks at least 50 questions a day. He’s also learned how to fix fences, use tools and change tires among many other farm necessities.
I am not sure what future career he will pursue. I am certain his curiosity will serve him well.
Our daughters have been learning about the care and keeping of horses this summer. Friends coming to visit crack up at the sight – little people safely driving the RTV up to the pasture to feed and check on animals. I’ve been impressed how they want to learn how to saddle and tack them up with our help. All of these things I see them learning now are forming their future for responsible adulthood. At least that’s our prayer for them.
So teachers, I know my kids weren’t really all that excited about getting up early and starting a school schedule again. I’m sorry.
We’ve had a lot of fun learning new things (and goofing off) this summer. We’ll settle into our routine. Be patient with all of us. Please nurture our kids’ curiosities academically. We’ll continue to train them in responsibility and respect at home.
I hope you’ve enjoyed a nice summer, welcome back to school, neighbor.
