“We spread an abundant and delicate feast in the programmes and each small guest assimilates what he can.”
~ Charlotte Mason
We I have let many things slip. I tried to take stock of the past couple of years and I find myself sorely disappointed. I’m not very connected with my teen’s and tween’s education – I have basically set the goals and sent them on their way while I struggle with juggling chores and studies. (I do a rubbish job of it, by the way.) Not quite the broad and generous curriculum I had envisioned clearly.
So, yesterday, I had a conversation with my elder ruffians and we have agreed to revive the following:
1. Faith Journal
There is a genre of hadeeth literature called “al-arba’iniyyat” or collections of 40. The most famous or representative is of course Imam An-Nawawi’s 40 Hadeeth. I thought it would be beneficial for the girls to compile their own collections of 40 ahadeeth based on themes of their choice (good deeds, good behaviour, etc.). They don’t have to make it elaborate with illustrations or embellishments, but they do have to write in their best handwriting. (And I have to appreciate the effort and work on not being a bitter old crone over their penmanship.)
(2) Nature Journaling
Each day, the girls have to draw or paint or photograph something that celebrates nature. They can write if they want, but they can also let the pictures speak for themselves. The goal is to rekindle our sense of curiosity and wonder at the world. Let’s face it, we are so consumed with technology, work… ourselves! … that we are never in awe anymore. Why is that? Why don’t we wonder at the humble beetle in the garden – a creature so tiny yet tenacious that Allah Himself has fashioned and provided for? Why don’t we contemplate and reflect? I cannot draw for toffee so I am going to photograph my way through this ;) I know it is a cheat and I know there are numerous benefits to taking the time and making an effort to draw, but I need to keep things simple and sustainable.
(3) Quran Journaling
My friend Asrina has a scrumplicious idea for Quran journaling that I am definitely going to steal. She is doing a Hafazan Notebook. After memorising a Surah, she and her children jot down the summary and vocabulary. They also journal about why the surah is special to them and write out their favourite ayah. Genius, ma shaa Allah. Please do visit her blog, Muslim Homeschool Mum, for more gems.
I have a few more resolutions to tackle, but I have a propensity to overthink and overdo, so I am sticking with these for now before I move on. Please keep me and my family in your prayers!
