[email protected]

Karen writes:
<< my oldest son (5 yrs)

> really does not like to draw

> very much >>

i cant see how it would be very inspiring to him if he doesnt care to draw!
but i liked the suggestions of someone else who mentioned the picking out
things to keep, etc. my kids didnt like to draw much at 5 but now (7.5 & 10)
really enjoy it and do it spontaneously for pleasure... (not neccessarily
nature drawing, just whatever they feel like drawing. for my 7yo it is
egyptian people in ancient dress at the moment!) i am reading "the charlotte
mason companion" (k. andreola) right now and enjoying it. i dont plan to
follow the method, but enjoy hearing the philosophy, and parts of it i will
absorb i'm sure.

i attended a raymond and dorothy moore seminar this wk and couldnt believe
how "unschooly" they are! many of you will be familiar with them, their
names have been around in homeschooling since the 70's-- and are both turning
85 this year! they call themselves "the grandparents of homeschooling" (a
generous term) but in reality have had an influence and have some great
recommendations to share. the "moore formula" includes a(n equal?)
combination of work, service and study with NO formal schooling til at least
10-13years old. they share lots of research about the proof for delaying
formal studies including some interesting info from opthalmogists on the
development of the eye. they encourage parents to listen to our children,
find their interests and let them be motivated to learn all they want! i
did not agree with everything i heard (they promote ezzo and babywise for
babies!! ugh. ...and dont recommend reading fiction... ????) but much of
what i heard was affirming and encouraging. btw, i would recommend their
book or some tapes over hearing them in person-- they are a bit, well,
reflecting their age when they speak!
erin