Our days have been filled with school routines and with Lachlan in Year 1, Andrew in Year 4, a keen kindy student, a 2 year old who wants to master her fine motor skills and a new baby to add to the mix, they have been full to say the least!

For Queensland children, this year has been one of change with the implementation of the National Curriculum. In our small classroom, we have particularly noticed the change in expectation of the Year 1’s. Spelling, noun groups, sentence structure, money, 3 D shapes have all been on the agenda this week and I’m proud to say Lachlan is rising to the challenge. I have, on the other hand, needed some reassurance from his “real” teacher – her support has been wonderful.

I hasten to add that our days are far from perfect with Lachlan’s computer acting like a giddy goat this week, 5000 threading beads, 200 teddy bears, a box of attribute shapes and packet of sequins all over the floor (well that was all that was salvageable!), washing being hung at 4 in the afternoon after sitting in the machine all day, Eliza crying sometimes and Mum with tears as well.

Eliza has, for the most part, been angelic and she seems to like the school routine. She starts her day with a reader,

 has a huge sleep (this week from around 8.30 to 12!?!)

and then a play….

Andrew is feeling very grown up in Year 4 and with this comes independence. His curriculum has also “jumped” but kids never cease to amaze you as they rise to the challenge! Wait until he shares with Grandma his personally created website and with Grandad his limerick……

Adelaide has a few years to wait until formal school begins. It still doesn’t stop her from waiting for someone to answer her calls……..

Smoko is still the highlight of the day although when Tess returns to Uni in a few weeks, the variety of delectable cakes may dwindle……….

All I can say though is, thank God for week-ends!

There are 2 comments on this article:

• On 4/02/2012 sharon said:

  I am so thankful for the little school down the road from us, but it still it irks me with the new curriculum that they are relying so much on technology for distance ed, especially when power and internet connection can be pretty dodgy outside of city limits. my oldest has gone into year four too, so far no complaints from her so guess its all going well…you need a gold medal for teaching with a teeny tiny baby! thank goodness for the biggest girl keeping smoko’s up to you all!

• On 4/02/2012 Fiona said:

  Just gorgeous photos Ainsley.
  Love the images of your boys in the header. Girls will feature next month I hope.
  If that cheeky Adelaide gets too much, send her down here. I know a certain tall Mr who wouldn’t mind at all.