Tuesday, April 14, 2015

L is for Learning








On Day 12 of the A - Z Challenge, L is for Learning


We've been fortunate that both David and Michael enjoy learning.  Michael has had challenges which is why we've had a tutor working with him since he was four.  We had an hour a week of speech therapy with Lisa, and when he had issues with holding a pencil and not being able to write, Lisa recommended Carol, who was a resource teacher in the district.  

Lisa's family obligations caused her to leave us after a couple of years.  Carol took on two days and has been instrumental in getting Michael to where he is today.  I don't know what we would have done without her.  A few years ago, Carol and I agreed he only needed the one hour, not two.  However at the same time, David had been expressing his displeasure on how there was no history being taught at school.  I approached Carol about using that second day to teach history, not really sure if she would even want to.  We were thrilled when she was excited about it.  She said she had gone to school for history but took the resource job when it was available.  

She has been teaching them history, once a week for the past several years.  They go in great depth probably along the lines of a college course. 

I remember history class in school.  We never made it past World War I by the end of the year.  The boys are learning about Bosnia now.  And as Carol had relatives in WWII, she even brought in several items including American uniforms for the boys to see, (and try on).




Carol also helped Michael get his fifth grade Ben Franklin project together including the costume.



Finally, in grade 7, History is in the middle school curriculum.  David could teach it! 




11 comments:

  1. What a great experience you're describing there! Carol sounds just the ticket.

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    1. I cannot give Carol enough credit. I don't know how many times I've said that Michael would never have gotten to where his is without her. She has been a godsend to us! xoxo

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  2. It sounds like things are going great!

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    1. Things are. It's constant work though, we can't get lax or lazy. Always pushing forward and occasionally a few steps back, but we've come a long way! Thanks for stopping by Tracy! xoxo

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  3. Its cool as a kid to dress up as soldiers from wars past, And it helps them develop a love for history.

    Stephen Tremp
    A to Z Cohost
    Twitter: @StephenTremp

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    1. They love history anyway, would rather go to a museum any day rather than amusement park! The uniforms were an absolute thrill, icing on the cake! Thanks for stopping by Stephen! xoxo

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  4. History is such a wonderful subject, they're lucky to be learning so much. Great photos!

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    1. thanks so much and thanks for stopping by Helen! xoxo

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  5. Sounds like you have lucked out with this tutor. And your boys have lucked out to have you as their mom!
    Maui Jungalow

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    1. Thanks Courtney - and we did really luck out with Carol. xoxo

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