Scavenger hunt

I sent the two older kids on a simple scavenger hunt around the neighbourhood late yesterday afternoon in the hope of letting them expand some energy, as well as obtaining some peace for myself. Or what peace I can get with only the tot around.

At least I didn't have to deal with complaints of "I'm bored", "I've nothing to do". Or having to find new excuses NOT to allow use of the TV or computer or iPad. Seriously, I am thankful for technology, but it's hard to explain to older kids why they MAY NOT. I don't think the old "Because I say so" reason is enough for them anymore.

On the list are:
Different types of leaves and flowers
Tree bark rubbings
 Rubbish (discarded paper, plastic)
Bird feather
Weird but plausible things such as pencil, shoelace, etc.

I did warn them NOT to pluck any leaves or flowers from living plants, but only to pick up what they can find on the ground.

Preparation for homeschooling

I know it's still a long way since he just turned two, but I like knowing that I have lots of time to browse, plan, print, hoard and buy materials to prepare for lessons perhaps one year down the road (or maybe even later).

I'm currently going through Homeschool Creations, trying to get a feel of how to plan lessons etc. But phew, I am still very much lost. Also, after going through part of Angela's ParentingJoy site, I have also started designing some Chinese materials which I hope I can start earlier than proper English stuff, since we are speaking Cantonese (me and him). It has occurred to me that I will have to decide which language I want to speak in when I begin teaching, but I honestly believe that by then he will have picked up enough English from his Dad, Gajie and Gorgor to begin formal lessons.

And Gorgor will have formal exams for the first time in his life! P2 SA2, before this he has only ever had mini tests.