My Saturday started and ended with this guy. Kahit medyo napagod ako sa biyahe ko going north to south to east then north again, I was so happy kasi he experienced many firsts today.
Showing posts with label Schooling. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Schooling. Show all posts
12.08.2018
8.07.2017
High School Life Away from Home
The boy has been homeschooled since fifth grade. We are currently finishing fourth quarter of our grade 7 school year. There's an overlap, but everything will be sorted out very soon. Today, he starts grade 8 "away from home" -- in a new school, meeting new friends, taking on new challenges, and entering high school in a totally different environment. I was the one feeling butterflies in my stomach while on our way to school this morning. I am getting teary-eyed and feeling emotional as I write this. Ewan ko ba! Bahala na what I will write about. Ako talaga ang may separation anxiety. I never expected I'd feel this way.
2015 2017
2.10.2017
Mangrove Planting with 3rd Graders
My girl and her fellow third graders had the opportunity to travel to a mangrove forest in a remote area in Lian, Batangas. This educational trip was part of their unit study about “Exploring What We Can Do For the Regions” for Social Studies. The field trip was done in collaboration with the Philippine Tropical Forest Conservation Foundation (www.ptfcf.org) and Lian Kingfisher Association. I was one of the parent-volunteers and I'm excited to share our experience with you!
10.03.2016
What To Expect at the 2016 Philippine Homeschool Conference
Are you curious about homeschooling? Do you want to explore homeschooling for your family? Have you started your homeschooling journey? Are you interested to shop for educational tools and materials? Let me share with you what you can expect from the upcoming Philippine Homeschool Conference happening this October 22!
8.12.2016
Family Friday: Keep Calm and Carry On with Homeschool
Second Friday of the month: Parenting / Education
We just started our new school year this month and the boy is now grade 7. I can't believe we are on our third year of homeschool! It doesn't get any easier, and to be honest, there are more days where I still find it hard to find joy in our homeschooling journey. Kaya I continue to seek inspiration from successful homeschoolers and from online resources.
6.10.2016
Family Friday: Our Homeschool Journey Continues
Second Friday of the month: Parenting / Schooling
I'm giving the boy two more weeks to complete the last quarter and close the school year. I am on panic mode since end of May. We are delayed (as expected), and just like last year, his year-end testing and assessment with our academic adviser is set at the end of this month. He'll be done with grade 6. He is going to be graduating from middle school and the ceremony is scheduled at the end of September. I can't believe we will have a graduate and that we made it through two years of homeschooling!!!
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| At Magellan's Cross, which was part of his Philippine history lesson |
3.18.2016
Field Trip to Hardin sa Tabing Ilog Campsite in Nasugbu, Batangas
Third Friday of the month: Fun and Recreation / Travel
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This month's Fun Friday feature is all about my girl's school culminating event for their social studies where the second graders and parents went on an exposure trip to Batangas. Hardin Sa Tabing Ilog Campsite was the venue for their year-end activity. This trip to an actual river was the perfect backdrop that allowed the kids to reflect and showcase what they've learned about Pasig River, it's surrounding communities and rehabilitation, and how it compares to rivers from around the world.
9.18.2015
Fun Friday: The Artsy and The Sporty
Third Friday of the month: School Events
This is a proud-mommy-moment kind of post. I know I don't say it enough. Oftentimes, I just say "good job" or "you did great", but rarely do I say "I'm so proud of you" whenever they accomplish something significant. Sometimes, I share their works or activities on my IG and FB. Kaya eto na lang ang short tribute ko to show how proud I am with my two highly spirited kids. Both recently had their respective culminating events -- one in the arts and the other in sports.
8.06.2015
What to Expect at KIDZANIA Manila
Do you remember a time when you imagine or dream of what you want to be when you grow up and role-play with siblings or friends? Did you dress up the part and take out all the props and toys you can find to pretend with? Well, level-up na ang mga kids ngayon with global edu-tainment brand KidZania opening it's doors to the public tomorrow, August 7, in Bonifacio Global City.
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| KidZania Manila Main Square |
7.31.2015
Flashback to My Most Popular Posts
You might be wondering why it's not Mom-Finds today. If you've been a loyal reader, you'd know that I have a theme for each Friday of every month, and that every last Friday of the month will be about a recent shopping find, or a newly-discovered product or service. Either I was just too busy to notice the calendar or I am really getting old and forgetful! This July pala has five Fridays, so dapat Freestyle Friday last week and today is the last Friday of the month!
7.10.2015
Family Friday: New Homeschooling Year
Second Friday of the month: Schooling / Parenting
We did it! First year of homeschooling is over. The boy is now grade 6. It was a rocky road for both of us since June last year and I didn't want to rant or share anything negative here. For those of you following my blog, you may have noticed that I was not blogging as much as I used to, and haven't been attending events as often. I have to make those choices to spend more time homeschooling. It was not fun at all, I tell you, but it's all worth it.
We did it! First year of homeschooling is over. The boy is now grade 6. It was a rocky road for both of us since June last year and I didn't want to rant or share anything negative here. For those of you following my blog, you may have noticed that I was not blogging as much as I used to, and haven't been attending events as often. I have to make those choices to spend more time homeschooling. It was not fun at all, I tell you, but it's all worth it.
7.01.2015
How Kids can Learn Through Play with Ogalala
"If they can't learn the way we teach, we teach the way they learn." That's coming from child development expert O. Ivar Lovaas. Being a parent-teacher, it's a continuous struggle for me to effectively teach and tutor my kids. Coming up with creative ways for the kids to learn will be easier if I have the right set of tools and materials for them. As I recently discovered, Ogalala can help parents like me in that department.
6.21.2015
Shop for School, Back to Cool and Get Rewards
Are you done shopping for your kids' school needs? If you do your shopping at The SM Store like me, then all the more reason for us to shop and send our kids back to school in style, then get rewarded for it! SM is running their Win Back Your Tuition promo, as well as #SMBackToCool Instagram giveaway.
This is fantastic news for us moms, right? With the tuition fees and other expenses adding up for school needs, learning about rewards like these is enough incentive to be a smart shopper. Thanks to SM for tapping me to share this good news here on the blog. We still have until the end of June to continue our back-to-school shopping for the kids. =)
Yesterday, I went to SM Megamall with the kids coz everything we need is there. The girl will start 2nd grade by the end of this month so we got a new pair of black mary janes from Sugar Kids. That's her new pair at the bottom left.
If you have tweens and teens, there are endless choices in the Teens section for comfy apparel.
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| EASY BREEZY IN WHITE |
This slip-on dress is comfy, chic, and will never go out of style. In and out of the campus, little girl will surely shine.
My boy naman will continue his homeschooling so he won't be wearing any uniform. But he still needs cool kicks and casual clothes for his extra curricular activities and group classes. We'll be going back to buy him more walking shorts and pullovers like this below, kasi mahilig sya sa long sleeved tees. Ginawin kasi, and they're also perfect for this rainy season.
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| LAIDBACK CHARM |
Your schoolboy will look effortlessly adorable in this basic pullover-shorts-sneakers ensemble on any given day.
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| BACK-TO-COOL STARTER KIT |
Make this academic year memorable and unique with these novelty school items available at The SM Store.
We all need notebooks and supplies, and SM has them all, and in super cute and chic designs too! Here's the boy, checkin out the quirky prints on the notebook covers.
From fashion finds to cute accessories and supplies, our practical shopping destination has always been SM. Now, we can get rewarded for shopping!
Win Back Your Tuition Promo
Win Back Your Tuition Promo
Get the chance to instantly win back tuition fees of up to PhP100,000 as well SM Store Gift Passes worth P100.
How To Join:
- Incur a minimum single-receipt purchase of PhP2,000 at any The SM Store branch
- Use any Philippine-issued BDO MasterCard credit, debit or prepaid card
- Shop until June 30, 2015
- Valid entries guaranteed for a chance to win
The SM Store also has an ongoing #SMBackToCool Instagram giveaway.
Click here for complete mechanics on how join!
Be sure to follow @theSMStore on: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest for more details and regular updates.
For more information, visit www.thesmstore.com.
Hurry and shop, shop, shop until June 30 to qualify for the #shopforschool promos!
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6.18.2015
First Art Exhibit of The Boy and The Girl
Two weekends ago, the TMA Summer Art Class had their exhibit at Galerie Stephanie as their culminating activity. The students all did amazingly well and the families went to support them. I have to say I am a very proud, thankful and happy mom to have a boy and a girl who are both artistically inclined. Drawing has been a hobby for them since they were preschoolers. After years of asking them to take art lessons, they finally did it together this summer.
The girl took basic art classes two summers ago, while the boy never continued after a few trial classes. He got bored. Their recent summer art class with TMA, which will be credited to the boy's homeschool art subject, got them together for the first time, and was a promising step towards taking more art classes. Check out the progress of their self-portraits above. =)
The kids were fortunate that they were taught by contemporary abstractionists, Camille Ver. With over 10 years of being a professional artist, she guided the kids on creating their own masterpieces, shared a bit of art history, and exposed them to different materials.
From the classroom to the gallery, it was a very enriching experience for my kids and myself (coz I'm the one bringing them to class every week, and sometimes, I stay in the room for the whole session). At the exhibit, all the kids' works were displayed, with their portraits professionally framed.
First was their name in art, followed by their self-portrait, then their interpretation of summer, and at the bottom is their perspective and rendition of the teapots. That's Camille standing beside M's works.
Each of them had four artworks that they can sell or keep. Teacher Camille pegged the prices at PhP500 each, except for the frame portrait which was priced at PhP750.
Of course, the kids had mixed feelings since they don't want to part with their "creations" daw, but were tempted at the prospects of earning from their work.
The boy used mainly primary colors for his art. His sister said he looks like an old man! Hahahaha! I think it's the glasses. =)
Can you still spot the dragon from his initial sketch?
My girl uses all bright and sunny colors for her artworks. I was actually surprised she used pink for the background on the last one. She said she's over pink already and wanted to try other colors. I guess she'll always love pink.
Here are the kids, checking out their classmates' works.
The exhibit showcased works from the younger kids too.
Before the end of the program, the boy "sold" his pieces to the grannies and the girl sold hers to daddy. Each of their sets were sold for a package price of PhP2,000. They were assured that their artwork will stay at home, so they took the tempting offer and bought a toy from their "profit" before we headed home, hahahaha! =)
All I can say is that the kids had a wonderful experience and wanted to attend more classes. I have no objections. =)
Here they are with their certificates from the TMA class coordinator. Thanks, teacher Camille, for being patient with the makulit kids. =) You can view some of Camille's amazing works here in Galerie Stephanie's site.
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5.29.2015
Mom-Finds: Beatrix Bags and Lunchbox for School and Travel
Last Friday of the month: Shopping / Accessories / Kid-Style
Summer is almost over and it's time to shop for the children's school needs like supplies, shoes, bags and uniforms. If you're searching for a bag and lunchbox that you and your kids will love, then look no further -- Beatrix New York is now in the Philippines. Beatrix will surely charm kids and parents with their uber adorable and durable bags and lunch box. The designs are super cute, mom-approved style, and kids will want to use them. I know mine does.
4.21.2015
Engineering For Kids Summer Adventure Camps 2015
We're half way through summer season and the kids have been enjoying the break so far, especially my girl. The boy is still into the final quarter of his homeschooling year, as I've shared here, but I make sure he's also able to spend some fun times with his sister and cousins.
About two weeks ago, we got invited to the launch of the summer Adventure Camps of Engineering for Kids. We missed the event kasi the kids had their painting class that same day, but we're happy we were able to attend a trial class last Thursday.
2.18.2015
Homeschool Conversations: Third Quarter Storm
The rest of the conventional schools are into their last quarter of the school year. I feel the pressure. Too much, actually. We are just into our 3rd quarter, and ending Q2 for a few subjects. The schedule of portfolio presentation should be this week, but there's nothing to present yet. We are so lagging behind and it's really affecting our motivation and morale. My boy knows we will extend until summer to finish our school year. This will be our first "working" summer.
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| Quote from Ron Clark |
Many of my friends ask me about how we are doing with homeschooling. My answer is always the same -- it's difficult and we're behind schedule. A lot of them see my updates on Instagram and here on the blog, but I don't have much to say coz I don't want to rant and be negative about it here. At the moment, this is where we're at.
I know in my heart that this set-up is for the best interest of my son, for now. But there will always be doubts, especially since I cannot say I am an effective parent-teacher. J is a better teacher! He has more patience and better teaching skills. Kung pwede lang nga siya ang mag homeschool, ok with him, and I work. Actually, the problem is with me. I admit, it's tough. I'm "sabog", too distracted and not organized. That's why I can't see a long term set-up for this yet. I'll carry on as long as I can, for the boy.
But we have moments. Good ones. My boy is interest-driven. He's very focused on Science, on computer programming, reading (surprisingly), swimming, arts.
Me: That's nice!
Boy: I like swimming. Butterfly is hard. I have a hard time breathing.
Me: Me too, that's my least favorite stroke. But just practice to improve. After swimming, what's your next P.E. activity?
Boy: I want to try badminton.
Me: Ok, let's find a schedule for you.
He's also a social person. He likes to make friends. Unfortunately, we still need to find a group or a class where we can regularly join and help him find new friends. One time, he told me he's afraid he won't have friends and won't meet anyone.
Me: I also don't have that many friends.
Boy: But he said you have more. I want to have many friends. My friends from school are not here anymore. That's why I want to go to another country. What if I don't meet anyone? (Teary-eyed)
Me: For sure you'll meet friends as you get older. You're just in grade 5... don't worry. I found my true friends when I was in high school. That's why we'll look for classes you can join, okay?
(At this point, I didn't know what to say anymore. We just continued with the lesson.)
I'm thankful that our academic consultant is very supportive despite our delays. She knows his challenges and pace, so she allowed us to combine our reporting for Q2 and Q3. I also joined an FB group for homeschoolers to get inspiration and ideas on how other parents do it. I realized I'm not as passionate as them, and there lies the problem. I'm taking this one day at a time. We are also keeping our options open. The boy knows we'll be studying until April. That's my line every time he's taking too long in doing his tasks. Who would want to have "no summer vacation", diba? I want my vacation too!
Sometimes, I still wonder how other long-time homeschooling parents do it. Multiple levels at that! Ako parang 3 kids na rin ang tinuturuan ko with my boy! :p
This is also a major reason why I don't blog as often as I want to. I'm tired. I'd rather sleep and chat with friends at night, than sit and write and eventually have a headache kasi lumalabo na ang mata ko, heehee. It's exhausting, but I see that he's happy. I really need to get my act together, for his sake! Pray for me! =)
My boy is techie, and one recent article that inspired me is this:
I was hesitant to share about our homeschooling journey coz it might discourage families out there who are considering this. But each family has a different experience and ours is just a tiny peek of it. Please consider and learn more about it, coz it's a wonderful option for your children's education and many families around the world can attest to that. Yes, it's not for everyone, but don't shoot it down.
If you want to learn more about homeschooling, I'm attending this parent conference this March. Check it out and register here if you are interested.
I'd love to know your thoughts on this post. If you enjoyed this, feel free to share it!
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I try my best to reply and answer any questions you may have on each entry so check back if you've left one. Thank you and do visit again!
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10.14.2014
Mom-Friday Homeschool Conversations - 10.14.2014
We're in our Q2 (second quarter) of homeschooling and I am still feeling the pressure, the adjustments (the boy is more adjusted than me!), and struggling with ways to teach and think outside the box. I guess I still have not shaken off the mindset of teaching methods in conventional schooling and comparing with the progress of other kids in his level.
As we attack each week, with a combination of enthusiasm and trepidation, I have come to appreciate the flexibility of our schedule. The best part is having the time and opportunity for my boy to enjoy moments of discoveries, and indulge in his unique interests.
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| Getting started with coding and game creations |
8.08.2014
Family Friday: Homeschool, Back Pains, and Blogging
Second Friday of the month: Parenting / Schooling / Health
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As I write this, my mind is still as disorganized as the table I have in front of me. I've been remiss of my other household responsibilities ever since we started homeschooling, and I've also been neglecting my health, and even this blog. Let me warn you, I am not thinking straight right now and this post might end up like a confessional of sorts. I'm uninspired, tired, sleepy all the time. There were nights when my mind tells me to write and blog about a mishmash of ideas running in my head, or read a book, or draw, or loom, but my body would rather do nothing. I just feel drained at the end of the day.
7.18.2014
Fun Friday: Dioramas on Philippine History at Ayala Museum
Third Friday of the month: Recreation / Leisure / Art
We've only been to a few museums around the city, and this is our first time to visit the famed Ayala Museum in Makati City. I initially intended for this field trip to coincide with the boy's current lesson on Philippine history. It was a perfect showcase of vignettes from our past, presented in meticulously crafted dioramas, hand-carved in Paete, Laguna -- all 60 of them.
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