What a strange old time. I’m still in that period where I wake up each day and, just for a few seconds, forget what’s going on. It doesn’t take long for it all to come flooding back.
Freya and I have been staying in (aside from a brief period of exercise each day away from anyone else) for more than a week now. We’re doing as much as we can to keep healthy. Mark is a key worker and still going in every day so it’s been just the two of us at home.
I’ve been very grateful for all the online resources made available for home school. I know a lot of people have said they wanted to be laid back about it all – and believe me, I’d like to be the same – but Freya very much needs routine and structure.
I did a timetable but realised quite quickly that I was probably working her too hard (she asked if she could have a lunchtime nap one day). While we have stuck to our schedule, I made it a bit more relaxed (and I allowed more breaks). I am trying to make it fun for her as I think it must all seem very strange for children (as it is for adults), so along with the usual English and maths lessons we’ve been making a video diary (for family) which she scripts and does costume, directs and helps edit, PE/yoga, sign language, geography, art history, balcony gardening, baking, arts and crafts and house chores (I had planned to do this myself but she begged to join in so I gave her simple jobs like dusting and sorting the washing and she loved it).
As Freya dislikes school, she thinks being a home (even being stuck inside the flat) is the best thing. I’m slightly worried about getting her back to school again when all this is over.
Fitting work in has been something of a challenge but I don’t think it hurts for Freya to have some independent time. In fact we made a home school logo (using three different shapes) and that was one of our “core values” (that was my suggestion).
Between home school, work, cooking and cleaning, I haven’t had a lot of any down time, which is something I really want to change. Self care seems like it’s very important in the current situation.
Anyway, I hope you are safe and well wherever you are in the world. How are you finding things?
After The Rain 
Sending love to you and your family, Tara. Lovely photos – especially that one of your daughter running. Love her hair! xx
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Thank you! She has so much hair. Hope you guys are safe and well.
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We’re holding up pretty well so far. My husband and I both work from home anyway so work-wise, nothing has changed. We have our 13-year-old daughter studying but she’s fairly self-sufficient and it’s quiet round us for a walk with the dog. Stay strong and safe x
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It sounds like the home education is going very well, even if you haven’t quite got your own headspace just yet… I’d love to have a child who thought that household chores was fun. (I have one who will do them, but money has to change hands!)
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I’m sure the time for money will come. Whatever works, right? Hehe.
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Looks like you have a good little school happening there! I’m finally hoping to get some me things done this week (like nothing and reading books). Prepping and dealing with people who made that more difficult, plus staying informed these past two weeks as we got our stay-at-home order, etc. has left no time for self-care. I hope we BOTH get some this week!
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I hope your me time is going well. I started a new book last night! I’m reclaiming my nights. Sending you best wishes across the pond.
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