Homeschooling In December

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Does your homeschool continue during December?  How much of a break do you take for the Christmas season?  Those are questions we have all asked ourselves.

During elementary and middle school years, our children took a long break for the Christmas season.  Hubby was a college professor and had a month’s vacation.  I liked to start our break on December 1st.  I selected this date because the pre-Christmas schedule was overwhelming.

I found that trying to complete homeschool lessons, as well as Christmas preparations, was just too much.  The stress of cleaning, decorating, shopping, baking, and events was over-taking my days.  There was not enough time to do everything, and we all got grumpy.

Taking a December break allowed us to have a wonderful Christmas spirit in our home and share that with others.  I needed time to complete the decorating and shopping in peace.  Of course, the kids were helpful with many of the tasks.

When it was time to decorate, wrap presents, and plan our schedule, we all worked together.  These things are so much fun when you turn on Christmas carols or movies.  We had plans to serve others during the season, too.  Shopping for Christmas Angels or packing shoeboxes for Samaritan’s Purse have been fun activities for our family.

Everyone has a favorite way/s to donate to charity and help others, and this is a wonderful time of year to do these as a family.  Older children can volunteer at the Salvation Army or other location that helps others in need.  I’m sure you have organizations in mind that you would like to serve.

There are numerous events to attend: tours, concerts, programs, etc.  Map out your plans and put them on your calendar, because the time flies by.  Join a caroling group or start your own.  Events can be free or fee-based, but the options are almost unlimited!

When you’re busy doing things that all the children can’t participate in, have some Christmas coloring sheets or books ready to keep little hands busy.  You could prepare crafts ahead, too.  Have a basket filled with easy ideas for those times that will help you stay sane.

What are your favorite ways to spend December in your homeschool?  I wish you a joyous celebration of the Savior’s birth!

@2017, copyright Lisa Ehrman