We had a break in the wintry weather, and I was all:
GO GO GO!
We rushed to the park to enjoy the sun and warmth after dismal weeks of clouds, snow, and rain.
We brought play silks and played in the woodsy playground, making forts, pretending, and being loud.
This is an advantage to being homeschooled.
We can rush off in the middle of the day whenever the mood strikes, to take advantage of the sunlight, and play at a vacant park in the middle of the day, while many other children are stuck indoors, sitting at desks in classrooms…
We can finish our lessons later, when the clouds roll in.
The wind whipped our silks like flags. The kids loved pretending pirates and fighting on the high seas.
Tori liked feeling the silks blow across her face.
Alex liked hiding behind the silks.
Kate really just wanted to wear the silks like a cape.
Even Liz got in on the play a bit. At fourteen, she often thinks it’s beneath her to participate in playtime.
We noticed the light and wind. We reveled in being outdoors on a warm winter day.
Then they had to run wild in the field. Of course.
Alex loves his rainbow silk and this little hill.
Pretend play is so important.
We greatly encourage imaginative play around here. We read lots and lots and lots of books. I ask many questions, making sure my kids think. I’m trying really hard to allow for more art time and messy play. I know these things are significant for healthy brain development and well-rounded children.
Every day, I try to balance lesson time with free time, to encourage creativity and imagination.
I strive to ensure there is plenty of free play time. And sometimes, I have to encourage my kids in their unstructured play.
The girls love playing with the silk scarves, holing up in their room, hiding from their little brother, making loom jewelry and playing with their dolls.
The kids made this fort about a month ago, playing games and reading under afghans.
I love the impromptu fort they made on their own.
Fort play is a fun break from homeschooling.
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