We finished 1st grade Singapore math, science. Abeka Language/phonics/reading 1st. Story of the World 1. French geography and history for CP (French K) and more. We actually started 2nd grade stuff in some subjects.

I talked to Vidura a lot about it, to make sure he understood and agreed. We are going to spend the next 3 years (since NC laws don't require anything before age 7) studying cooking, world religions, our scriptures (Bhagavad Gita/Srimad Bhagavatam/Caitanya Caritamrita).

No more academic stuff at all. I just can't put a 3.5 years old in 2nd grade, he doesn't have the maturity required for most textbooks, etc...

It's going to be tough as Vidura is extremely attached to "doing school". I'll have to plan things myself, no more teacher's guide, hehe. We'll do little Walmart workbooks here and there to keep practicing, so he doesn't just forget everything (though I doubt he will, hehe).

I want to do more crafty stuff with him too, like knitting, sewing, beading, etc...

I think I am making the right decision. We can get back into 2nd grade when he turns 7 :D

I know this post is kind of pointless, hehe, just wanted to share :)

Ys,
Radhanuga

I don't think your post is pointless at all. It brings up a lot of good points. It is just another part of your journey, learning, changing redirecting based on Vidura's needs. It sounds like you have a lot of things available to him to keep his mind challenged:) I wish my mom had done that with me! :heart:

Radhanuga --
Wishing you well as you continue your journey with Vidura. One thing being a parent keeps teaching me is the need to be open-minded and flexible. Enjoy the next step.
Natalia

Well...I believe my children are gifted/intelligent etc. (My oldest and youngest are 'off the charts' types). Whatever you want to call it. My hsers are vibrant, active and always interested in something, and far less interested in moi.

I admit I don't see the point of workbooks etc for small children, even if they are highly intelligent. My kids can work and play with dust, I swear.

It's going to be *Ok*. Really. :hbeat:

I think it is a fantastic idea. Who knows, by the time he is 7 you may decide to unschool.

Knitting and making plaster casts of animal tracks can be just as fun....I've soooo been there (and am still there a bit). Thinking of you mama!

wow...he has gotten a lot done in his 3.5 yrs.

sounds like the next 3 yrs. you have planned will be fun and exciting. these are the kinds of things i plan on doing with my 3.5 yr. old as well.

enjoy!

I know how hard of a decision that was for you :hug: -- I am struggling with the same thing here, though Tucker will be 5 this fall, it still seems nearly silly to start a second grade curriculum with him. He, like Vidura, loves "school" and thrives on the structure and consistency of books (especially seatwork). I will be thinking of you all and praying for you. You are an awesome mama and I've no doubt that Vidura will blossom in whatever you do with him :heart:

:hug: I know it was a challenging decision... Lindsey's 4.5 and working on 1st grade.. I know what you mean about the maturity for the textbook things.. it's rough. Sounds like you've got some fun things planned though. :hug: