We ALL school our little ones regardless of formal educational choices later.
Daily life is their “school”.
As a mother, this is my happy place. I learned to love these years! Maybe it’s because we had a child, age 3 and under, in our home for 25 years – nonstop! Life’s pretty simple for a preschooler – growth is daily and results are tangible.
In the first 3 years of life the child learns more than at any other period of life! These early years are vital times to establish a rhythum of life and secure a child’s place of identity in the family. During toddlerhood the very BEING of the child is developing. Like seeds placed in rich soil – if neglected to SPROUT – future growth will be stunted. These are important days!
Simple obedience is learned (or not) during these years. This will save them from harm in years to come and help their life to … “go well with them”! AND US!! 
Obeying is simple at this stage – I didn’t say “easy” – but simple. When boundaries are made clear they know the “playing field” of life.
As for us – we get to do the same things over and over … our child has opportunities for repetition (which is how they learn at this stage) and we have opportunity to develop … well, in just about every area. 
This is a time to SOW! Reaping will be later – we want to stock their little minds and hearts with rich resources and truths they can draw from later. This will help foster security in their soul. And what we sow – will sprout …
When life gets too busy and we get off track – I have a checklist I used for daily living, in order to help create a balanced life for little ones.
- Regular rest – nap-times and bedtimes predictable – with few execptions
- Daily routines established – this brings security to the child
- Outdoor time – fresh air and sunshine – good for the soul! (makes for happy children)
- Play areas – toys in place and working – with all the parts and age appropriate
- Intellectual stimulation – lots of conversation and books read often!
- Creative outlets – art and craft supplies and opportunities to create
- Affection cultivated – am I “stopping” to hold them – what about ‘one on one’ time?
- TV/Video/computer limited – hinders intellectual growth and promotes restlessness…
- Alone time – play alone in bed, play yard etc … even for a few minutes
- Bedtime – blessing with Mom and/or Dad
REMEMBER TO VOTE!
Above & Beyond - Best New Homeschool Blog
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
I wholeheartedly agree – this is a precious and all too quick time! My oldest turned 14 yesterday and is WAY taller than I am now – where did it go?? Thank you for the reminders, Debi!
Can’t believe you’re moving to Tulsa! We’re gona miss you guys so much – we’ll have to make a road trip to OK!
Bless that sweet baby – boy??