It is that time of year. Between preparing for online conference seminars via podcast and packing for a "real" live convention in Orlando, the flurry of activity in this household has picked up a notch. Amazingly, the children are doing well with their school work. I attribute this to the use of weekly check off lists. Our group activities have diminished a bit (other than the science day at the park, last week, where we met with other children and had a fun day of making a mess and learning science principles)! It appears that when they have a reason for getting their school work done ahead of time they step up to the plate and perform.

Times like these allow me to see the fruits of hard work and trial and error, which comes with parenting and homeschooling. I think many children need a plan, a goal to reach or a deadline. Long ago we implemented a daily checklist and the children obtain a sense of satisfaction when they are able to check off a subject or activity completed for the day. Not every activity or subject is covered each day, but the list gives them a framework, with blank lines to fill in a last minute to-do. I have used this method ever since Kindergarten. For those younger children pictures work well in place or in conjunction with the words.

Setting up this format of checks and balances, has allowed me the freedom to work from home in a business I enjoy; publishing, public speaking, and consulting with aspiring authors. I live by check lists and on days when I fail to create one or plan the night before I find myself floundering. Use what works for you and your family, but if you have not tried this method, I encourage you to give it a chance. All that can happen is the children will know what to do without asking your advice, constantly.