Schedules are so hit and miss. I’ve learned over the years that when it comes to making schedules the first one never seems to work. I’m sure you’ve discovered this as well. Well, as you can imagine our first few weeks of school were rough as we adjusted to “the schedule”, and then figured out it just didn’t work! So, we threw it out the window and created a new one.
The Old Schedule
The New Schedule
The biggest issue in our schedule was keeping Lil’Bro busy, so I could work with his brother. No matter what I did it just wasn’t working. After discussing the challenges with my sister, a fellow homeschool mom, she asked if Lil’Bro was doing room time. For those that may not know, room time is a structured learning time, when your child plays alone. We used to take advantage of room time with Lil’Man, so I couldn’t believe I hadn’t thought of it myself. Now, I didn’t trust Lil’ Bro to be alone is his room while we were downstairs, so instead of room time he does crib time.
During his crib time I empty his crib of any naptime materials – blanket, pillow, stuff animals, etc. Then I give him an assortment of toys that I rotate weekly. Things I’ve given to him are: puzzles, books, play sets, blocks, Leap Frog toys (Tag Jr., Fridge Farm Magnetic Animal Set, Lettersaurus, My Own Leaptop), Mega Bloks, musical instruments and cars. Sometimes the toys are themed focus other times it just a few random things thrown together.
At first Lil’Bro was not happy about being in his crib. So, we started off with less time, gradually increasing it to 30 mins. And… I let him have his pacifier, which he is only suppose to get at bed time. Hey, a mama’s got to do what a mama’s got to do.
While Lil’Bro is having some independent play, Lil’Man and I work hard to complete writing and reading activities.
Crib time has been a real life saver for us.
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