Today started off with a very sleepy Callum and then a very long discussion on his game. Funny how when he's talking about something he's interested, he's suddenly very alert! However, my brain ended up exploding!
He's decided to build a new Roblox game and he's decided to log it as a project for home ed. Started with layout on paint yesterday with information on weapon prices, sizes, zombie waves, regeneration, points earned, main boss level, etc. He's then going to write the script to make the game, hopefully remembering to print it off; have screen shots of the game, instuctions on how to play and any tweaks/changes he's had to make. Now I'm fine with all that; in fact I think it's a great idea. He's even given himself a deadline to work to. However, whilst he was trying to explain it all to me he went a little bit too in depth and I totally lost track. It was a bit like the Brian Cox explanation on measuring light where I was "yes, understand", "yup, still get it", "yup, blimey I'm doing well" and then "No, my brain has just exploded!". All I can say is that I'm glad he gets it, because I can't help with any of it. Must admit, I'm quite impressed with the whole thing so far as he's even going on about how to advertise it on the site and get the game up the rankings.
After my brain had recovered and I'd laid in a hot bath for a while, he then attacked percentages, decimals and fractions in a workbook that he wants to finish. Now I'm ok with maths, but I have to admit that converting decimals to fractions and vice versa isn't my strong point. I can do percentages to fractions, but the other way round makes my head spin so I envisioned another brain explosion, but, nope, Callum, amazingly got it and even taught me how to do it. Love this home ed thing! Now I'm the pupil! Haha
After lunch we headed off to first trampoline lesson of the 'term'. Well, there was us thinking Kim might ease him in gently, but no! He started off running him through all the basic jumps right up to front somersaults, then ran through some combinations including: seat drop -> front drop -> back drop, front drop -> half twist -> back drop and then back drop -> half twist -> back drop; at which point Callum's head went dizzy! He finally finished with practicing both routines he's learnt including the somersault. For a half an hour lesson I don't think he stopped bouncing, twisting or spinning for more than 4 mins! Phew!
The rest of the day was errands; library, bank, haircuts and a bit of shopping then home. He's spent a bit more time on his Roblox game and is now upstairs on the XBox!
I don't think easing in this week is exactly what happened today, but hey ho!
Showing posts with label trampolining. Show all posts
Showing posts with label trampolining. Show all posts
Tuesday, 3 September 2013
Thursday, 9 May 2013
BEEN A WHILE I KNOW
Hi folks!
Yes I know, its been a while. But I haven't been slacking off too much, just been concentrating on daily updates on the related Facebook page. It's often easier, as I'm normally on there in the evenings anyway, to do a quick little update there than log in and write something a bit more substantial.
So what's been happening in Callum's world? Well, Digipen course is going well apart from some pretty big techno problems, but I've already ranted about those on my Is It Me blog, so I'm not going to go into it again here. Callum is really enjoying the course and I have no problems getting him to do the homework. In fact he ends up by going further into the course than he should as he's finding it interesting and perfect for what he wants to do, so I think programming is the way to go.
On top of that, the Kestral Award is starting to take shape. We found some previous work that fits in with the criteria so we've put that in and we've done one more item on the Do It list.
We'd already made a bird box, so I found the work and took extra pics of finished object and put that in and we've bought some pond plants to go into our wildlife ponds that we have. Basically they are the old corner bath we had and a tin bath that we found in the garden. We've buried the corner bath and the tin bath will have stones and bricks around it so that anything can climb up should it wish to. They have both been full of water for about a year and the corner bath is looking really green and murky, however we discovered water skaters on it this year and an underwater beetle, so were pretty impressed. One of the tasks in the award is to help create a wildlife pond, so we went out and bought some oxygenating plants, a water lily and a couple of shallow water plants and Callum planted them up and positioned them in the pond; me taking photos. We now need to get some plants around the pond, create the bog garden and surround the tin bath with stones once in permanent position. As the Kestral Award doesn't have a time limit, we can take our time, but hopefully it will all be up and running and planted by the end of July.
The other award we want to do is from the British Science Association. They run a scheme similar to the Arts Award we did a few years ago. We are going to start at Bronze just to get some practice in with regard to what type of work they expect before moving up to the Silver and Gold awards which have UCAS points attached. At the moment we are awaiting a delivery from Amazon with regard to some rockets as Callum wants to do Transport!! One of the sections he's chosen has experiments on model rockets and trajectories, speed and energy. Looking forward to starting it, but might need to go somewhere a little more spacious to carry out the tests.
Yes I know, its been a while. But I haven't been slacking off too much, just been concentrating on daily updates on the related Facebook page. It's often easier, as I'm normally on there in the evenings anyway, to do a quick little update there than log in and write something a bit more substantial.
So what's been happening in Callum's world? Well, Digipen course is going well apart from some pretty big techno problems, but I've already ranted about those on my Is It Me blog, so I'm not going to go into it again here. Callum is really enjoying the course and I have no problems getting him to do the homework. In fact he ends up by going further into the course than he should as he's finding it interesting and perfect for what he wants to do, so I think programming is the way to go.
On top of that, the Kestral Award is starting to take shape. We found some previous work that fits in with the criteria so we've put that in and we've done one more item on the Do It list.
We'd already made a bird box, so I found the work and took extra pics of finished object and put that in and we've bought some pond plants to go into our wildlife ponds that we have. Basically they are the old corner bath we had and a tin bath that we found in the garden. We've buried the corner bath and the tin bath will have stones and bricks around it so that anything can climb up should it wish to. They have both been full of water for about a year and the corner bath is looking really green and murky, however we discovered water skaters on it this year and an underwater beetle, so were pretty impressed. One of the tasks in the award is to help create a wildlife pond, so we went out and bought some oxygenating plants, a water lily and a couple of shallow water plants and Callum planted them up and positioned them in the pond; me taking photos. We now need to get some plants around the pond, create the bog garden and surround the tin bath with stones once in permanent position. As the Kestral Award doesn't have a time limit, we can take our time, but hopefully it will all be up and running and planted by the end of July.
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The tin bath with rocks and now a Waterlily |
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One of our pond skaters in the very murky water |
One another note, I'm back to having to remind Callum to wash his face, clean his teeth and shower! He was doing extremely well, but its all gone out the window again. Not sure if that is just him being a typical teenage boy or whether it's his Asperger or both, but it is a bit annoying after having got him into a routine with it all. Oh well two steps forward, one step back I suppose.
Oh and he's still doing trampolining! Somersaults now achieved on a regular basis. Concentrating on technique and starting backward somersaults at the moment. Eeeeek!!!
Anyway, stuff to do this morning, so hopefully back another day.
Cya
Thursday, 21 February 2013
HALF TERM? MAYBE
Hi all
Here's this week's blog. Finding it hard to write blogs daily, not because of time, but because it's difficult to write without going into the whole "we did this, then we did this, then we did that" kind of writing which is not only boring to write, it's boring to read. So, I've started doing quick, easy, daily status updates on Callum's World page on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/CallumsWorld?ref=hl
And then a proper blog at end of week (or whenever I get time over the weekend).
So, what has Callum been doing this week? Well, for starters he's been very lethargic and typically teenager floppy lazy hrumph boy. He isn't rude or grumpy, but I am getting the occasional 'grunt' reply when he's asked a question. Hey ho, to be expected with a 13, nearly 14 year old, even with a neuro typical kid, let alone an Aspi one.
Our days still always start with a cuppa and a sit-curled-up-on-sofa-in-pjs chat. I've normally been up a couple of hours before he surfaces, so it's actually nice to take a bit of time out and talk. We go over how we slept, whether he had good or bad dreams, what time he finally got to sleep and what book he's currently reading. We then discuss the day and I talk over what I expect from him. He can then ask any questions, raise any queries and, quite often, try and compromise with me if he's really not feeling up to anything huge. He can drive a hard bargain sometimes, but then so can I. It always works out suitable for us both in the end though and I think it's a good lesson in negotiating.
It was our week for two trampolining lessons this week, private with Kim and group with James. Kim always works him really hard and Callum certainly knows he's done half an hour of workout. He was a bit worried this week as it's half term and he was concerned that there might be a holiday club going on. He hates the idea that they might be staring at him and judging what he does, even though I am constantly telling him that they spend most of their time with their heads in their lunch boxes and talking amongst themselves. Luckily there wasn't a club and he had the whole centre to himself (kids wise). Somersaults went well although he did graze his chin after a particularly clumsy landing and he's practising the routine that he has to tack the somersault onto. Kim always stops the lesson about 10 mins before the end to do conditioning exercises with Callum, which I might add, he hates. This week he was getting a bit bolshy and telling Kim he wouldn't do it, but Kim, like James, is very good at convincing him otherwise. Came out absolutely knackered and had definitely earned his Subway. Group session today was more of a fun lesson which suited Callum.
As to 'lessons', as it's half term in school world, we haven't done anything too in depth, but I have asked him to do some more self monitored work like Khan Academy maths and today's science was reading matter with questions to answer. He's getting a lot better at working on his own, but still needs me to dish out work rather than being self motivated.
Socially he's had a pretty good week too. Monday was spent around his friend's house playing on the Xbox and Playstation. He loves going there as he has known his friend and his family since nursery school, so he's completely comfortable there and I have no worries about leaving him. Wednesday was the usual big sis visit with Merlin the dog and a now ever growing bump. No cooking this week though as not in the mood and was tired (more later). So lots of chat and play on Roblox. Today, after trampo, it was the now regular visit back from Lauren for tea and cake and even more Roblox.
Tomorrow is his dad's birthday and we still have a couple of bits to get ready for his return from work, so a shopping visit in the morning and possibly a cake bake in the afternoon, but that may not get done until Saturday. We like to spread out birthdays in this house, usually over a week, and as we are dog sitting his uncle's dog overnight on Saturday, we may have tea and birthday cake on Sunday afternoon when they return to pick up the hound.
He's had a good week even though he had a visit to the osteopath on Tuesday evening. He only goes about once every six months, normally when he starts complaining his shoulder or neck feels stiff. He likes going and Emma is brilliant with him, although he had to take off his Tshirt this time and he doesn't like stripping off in front of strangers. A bit of cracking later and all he wanted to do was go to sleep, hence the sleepy eyed, excessively lazy Wednesday. He's additionally happy as he received two more books in the Phoenix Files saga in the post along with dad's presents, so he's now rereading the previous three books in preparation of next two. One more to go apparently, but that's not been released yet.
Sorry no pics this week, not really done anything worth photographing, but hopefully be back on track with that next time.
Cya
Here's this week's blog. Finding it hard to write blogs daily, not because of time, but because it's difficult to write without going into the whole "we did this, then we did this, then we did that" kind of writing which is not only boring to write, it's boring to read. So, I've started doing quick, easy, daily status updates on Callum's World page on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/CallumsWorld?ref=hl
And then a proper blog at end of week (or whenever I get time over the weekend).
So, what has Callum been doing this week? Well, for starters he's been very lethargic and typically teenager floppy lazy hrumph boy. He isn't rude or grumpy, but I am getting the occasional 'grunt' reply when he's asked a question. Hey ho, to be expected with a 13, nearly 14 year old, even with a neuro typical kid, let alone an Aspi one.
Our days still always start with a cuppa and a sit-curled-up-on-sofa-in-pjs chat. I've normally been up a couple of hours before he surfaces, so it's actually nice to take a bit of time out and talk. We go over how we slept, whether he had good or bad dreams, what time he finally got to sleep and what book he's currently reading. We then discuss the day and I talk over what I expect from him. He can then ask any questions, raise any queries and, quite often, try and compromise with me if he's really not feeling up to anything huge. He can drive a hard bargain sometimes, but then so can I. It always works out suitable for us both in the end though and I think it's a good lesson in negotiating.
It was our week for two trampolining lessons this week, private with Kim and group with James. Kim always works him really hard and Callum certainly knows he's done half an hour of workout. He was a bit worried this week as it's half term and he was concerned that there might be a holiday club going on. He hates the idea that they might be staring at him and judging what he does, even though I am constantly telling him that they spend most of their time with their heads in their lunch boxes and talking amongst themselves. Luckily there wasn't a club and he had the whole centre to himself (kids wise). Somersaults went well although he did graze his chin after a particularly clumsy landing and he's practising the routine that he has to tack the somersault onto. Kim always stops the lesson about 10 mins before the end to do conditioning exercises with Callum, which I might add, he hates. This week he was getting a bit bolshy and telling Kim he wouldn't do it, but Kim, like James, is very good at convincing him otherwise. Came out absolutely knackered and had definitely earned his Subway. Group session today was more of a fun lesson which suited Callum.
As to 'lessons', as it's half term in school world, we haven't done anything too in depth, but I have asked him to do some more self monitored work like Khan Academy maths and today's science was reading matter with questions to answer. He's getting a lot better at working on his own, but still needs me to dish out work rather than being self motivated.
Socially he's had a pretty good week too. Monday was spent around his friend's house playing on the Xbox and Playstation. He loves going there as he has known his friend and his family since nursery school, so he's completely comfortable there and I have no worries about leaving him. Wednesday was the usual big sis visit with Merlin the dog and a now ever growing bump. No cooking this week though as not in the mood and was tired (more later). So lots of chat and play on Roblox. Today, after trampo, it was the now regular visit back from Lauren for tea and cake and even more Roblox.
Tomorrow is his dad's birthday and we still have a couple of bits to get ready for his return from work, so a shopping visit in the morning and possibly a cake bake in the afternoon, but that may not get done until Saturday. We like to spread out birthdays in this house, usually over a week, and as we are dog sitting his uncle's dog overnight on Saturday, we may have tea and birthday cake on Sunday afternoon when they return to pick up the hound.
He's had a good week even though he had a visit to the osteopath on Tuesday evening. He only goes about once every six months, normally when he starts complaining his shoulder or neck feels stiff. He likes going and Emma is brilliant with him, although he had to take off his Tshirt this time and he doesn't like stripping off in front of strangers. A bit of cracking later and all he wanted to do was go to sleep, hence the sleepy eyed, excessively lazy Wednesday. He's additionally happy as he received two more books in the Phoenix Files saga in the post along with dad's presents, so he's now rereading the previous three books in preparation of next two. One more to go apparently, but that's not been released yet.
Sorry no pics this week, not really done anything worth photographing, but hopefully be back on track with that next time.
Cya
Saturday, 9 February 2013
BIT OF A BUSY WEEK
Good afternoon on this fine, if chilly, Saturday. Not been around much this week, so this is a bit late. Hey ho, fed up with apologising for not doing dailies, life gets in the way and to be honest I do go through a bit of an anti tech phase occasionally where I just cannot be bothered to log in; too much other stuff to do. So anyway, this week:
Briefly;
Monday - hospital with Terri, my daughter, his sister, for her 21 week scan of pregnancy.
Tuesday - Private trampo lesson, subway, eye test.
Wednesday - Terri plus her friend Natalie over for cooking lesson and some arts and crafts.
Thursday - mum, me, at tattoo shop, so friend over and then both off to class trampolining lesson.
Friday - dentist appointment, bit of shopping and then friend's house for a couple of hours.
Today - computer, now Xbox after helping dad put up another shelf in bedroom to house growing collection of helicopters.
Monday
Didn't expect Callum to want to come to hospital with big sis to see baby scan, but he did. I know he's been a bit worried so maybe him going would put his mind a bit more at rest or maybe he was just curious. Also he doesn't normally like hospitals. But off we went, managing to get a lift from Terri's dad (bit like an extended family outing) and got to hosp on time. There was, of course, the usual wait, but we finally got called for scan. Terri's dad had to go off for blood tests, so it was just Terri, Callum and me.
I think he found it interesting and he was paying attention and, as he hasn't asked any more questions since, I'm assuming he's ok. So say hello to Callum's niece or nephew.
Tuesday
Private trampolining went really, really well. He was full of smiles and managed to do 3 full somersaults in a row without using a mat, so whoop whoop to him. Definitely deserved the 12 inch meatball Subway which seems to have become a tradition after the private lesson. Then eye test afterwards; slight deterioration so new glasses on order. Hoping to make the old ones into sunglasses for the summer once new ones have arrived.
Wednesday
We did make carrot cakes first, but for some unknown reason Blogger isn't uploading the picture of our success, so may try again another time. Anyway, the above picture shows the rest of the afternoon with Callum just about to start an Xmas coaster mosaic and the two girls making Valentine bits and pieces.
Thursday
Today
Callum is doing the usual weekend things of computer, XBox or TV or combi of both. He doesn't want to go out anywhere as we've been out pretty much all week (or had people here), so he's after a day to himself. He has, however, helped dad put up another shelf in his bedroom (there are now 3) on which he can put his new helicopters on. He's got 4 waiting construction and housing.
Briefly;
Monday - hospital with Terri, my daughter, his sister, for her 21 week scan of pregnancy.
Tuesday - Private trampo lesson, subway, eye test.
Wednesday - Terri plus her friend Natalie over for cooking lesson and some arts and crafts.
Thursday - mum, me, at tattoo shop, so friend over and then both off to class trampolining lesson.
Friday - dentist appointment, bit of shopping and then friend's house for a couple of hours.
Today - computer, now Xbox after helping dad put up another shelf in bedroom to house growing collection of helicopters.
Monday
Didn't expect Callum to want to come to hospital with big sis to see baby scan, but he did. I know he's been a bit worried so maybe him going would put his mind a bit more at rest or maybe he was just curious. Also he doesn't normally like hospitals. But off we went, managing to get a lift from Terri's dad (bit like an extended family outing) and got to hosp on time. There was, of course, the usual wait, but we finally got called for scan. Terri's dad had to go off for blood tests, so it was just Terri, Callum and me.
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Baby Munn |
Tuesday
Private trampolining went really, really well. He was full of smiles and managed to do 3 full somersaults in a row without using a mat, so whoop whoop to him. Definitely deserved the 12 inch meatball Subway which seems to have become a tradition after the private lesson. Then eye test afterwards; slight deterioration so new glasses on order. Hoping to make the old ones into sunglasses for the summer once new ones have arrived.
Wednesday
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Left to right: Callum, Natalie, TerriThe crafting trio |
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Xmas tree coaster |
I had my tattoo booked for Thursday, so wasn't around for most of the day. However, my wonderful friend Carol agreed that she would take Callum to trampolining for me that afternoon. As it was she dropped Lauren, her daughter, off to our house around 11.30am and Lauren and Callum played on the computer until it was time to go off to the lesson (admittedly they were a bit early). They then came back to the house until it was time for them to go off to Lauren's next activity for the day. Tea and cake was provided by Callum (I assume he made the tea and the cake was the carrot cake he'd made the day before). It mean't that, in the end, Callum wasn't alone for long; about an hour, so I ended up feeling a lot better about it all. Although Callum didn't really mind either way, I think he was happier having the company.
Found out later that evening that James, the coach, was beginning to get him practising backward rolls in prep for backward somersaults - Eeeek!!!
Friday
Not a day that we were entirely looking forward to as it was a dentist appointment first. However, all was well except for Callum being advised to brush his teeth a bit better than he does now. He still hasn't got fillings so was happy. She did ask if he wanted a brace, but he replied with a definite and resounding NO! To be honest, I don't think he really needs one.
Then a bit of quick shopping: jewellers for me to sell off a couple of bits of jewellery that I never wear and then health shop to pick up some marigold and chickweed cream for me to care for my new tattoo. Bought some apricots for £1 on way back to bus stop and then off to friend's house for a couple of hours playing on his XBox whilst us mums drank tea and had a chat.
Today
Callum is doing the usual weekend things of computer, XBox or TV or combi of both. He doesn't want to go out anywhere as we've been out pretty much all week (or had people here), so he's after a day to himself. He has, however, helped dad put up another shelf in his bedroom (there are now 3) on which he can put his new helicopters on. He's got 4 waiting construction and housing.
So busy week, not a great deal of lesson work done apart from maths on Thursday morning before I left, but then again, seeing a pregnancy scan, reading every night, cooking, making a mosiac, trampolining and seeing friends is all good stuff.
Cya
Tuesday, 22 January 2013
SLUSHY TUESDAY
Maths this morning - Callum says ugh!! Using mathematics Stuntman book; good way of going over some basic maths uses in a realistic environment.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Be-A-Stuntman-Using-Maths/dp/1860075460/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1358875431&sr=8-1
Then trampolining this afternoon with Kim. Somersaults!!!! And yes, nailed at least 5 of them! Woo Hoo! Landed on feet. However, did lose a bit of balance and ended up on trampoline in front on a couple of occasions - whoops! Hey ho, he's pleased he's now landing on his feet and not completely falling over and was beaming like a Cheshire cat. Kim then made him do exercises; Bunny jumps to end of pit run up and back and then push ups and running on spot on crash mats. Knackered afterwards!!!
Snow nearly all gone and High Street definitely clear. Bit of shopping and then to Subway for the, now traditional, foot long meatball with melted cheese and salad.
Home, unpack shopping, had a little chat and then on computer; supposedly finished for the day.
However, on Dad's arrival home, Draco, the dog, decides he doesn't want to go out for a walk with him and wants to go out with us instead. This was shown by refusing to move from his comfy dog bed in front of radiator even after Dad had shaken his lead and gone out the door. However, Mum gets up and walks into kitchen and up he gets wagging his tail and getting excited. Mum opens door to garden, but, no, that's not it; so she gets lead and he starts bounding about. So out we went again, back to trampolining centre and walk the dog around the small green that is behind it.
Back home, Dad a bit miffed, cup of cherry cappuccino (bought from new shop in Gillingham) and back onto computer.
Good day!
Cya
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Be-A-Stuntman-Using-Maths/dp/1860075460/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1358875431&sr=8-1
Then trampolining this afternoon with Kim. Somersaults!!!! And yes, nailed at least 5 of them! Woo Hoo! Landed on feet. However, did lose a bit of balance and ended up on trampoline in front on a couple of occasions - whoops! Hey ho, he's pleased he's now landing on his feet and not completely falling over and was beaming like a Cheshire cat. Kim then made him do exercises; Bunny jumps to end of pit run up and back and then push ups and running on spot on crash mats. Knackered afterwards!!!
Snow nearly all gone and High Street definitely clear. Bit of shopping and then to Subway for the, now traditional, foot long meatball with melted cheese and salad.
Home, unpack shopping, had a little chat and then on computer; supposedly finished for the day.
However, on Dad's arrival home, Draco, the dog, decides he doesn't want to go out for a walk with him and wants to go out with us instead. This was shown by refusing to move from his comfy dog bed in front of radiator even after Dad had shaken his lead and gone out the door. However, Mum gets up and walks into kitchen and up he gets wagging his tail and getting excited. Mum opens door to garden, but, no, that's not it; so she gets lead and he starts bounding about. So out we went again, back to trampolining centre and walk the dog around the small green that is behind it.
Back home, Dad a bit miffed, cup of cherry cappuccino (bought from new shop in Gillingham) and back onto computer.
Good day!
Cya
Tuesday, 18 September 2012
UP AND DOWN WE GO, BUT FINISH ON AN UP SO THAT OK
Good evening my lovelies. How are we all? We are good...just!
So what have we been up to? Well today did not start well for Callum as he didn't get up much before 10am and that was with me waking him up with a cuppa. Apparently he was determined to finish a book he's been reading, so stayed up until 11.30pm last night to finish it. Bearing in mind he was already tired from walking around yesterday (or so he says) I'm a bit annoyed that he stayed up so late, but what can you do? I'm glad he's been reading, but he really needs to manage his bedtime a bit more to ensure he gets enough sleep. I should probably tell him 'light's out', but he's 13 and I'd like to be able to give him a bit of responsibility to know when it's time to settle down. Plus I can't make him sleep and there's no evidence that he would have slept before then anyway especially if he was stressing about finishing the book.
So back to this morning. He woke up late, was tired and a tad grumpy to say the least. Was supposed to start HE at 10am and get a couple of things done before going trampolining, but by the time he'd eaten breakfast and come to a little it was nearly 11am! He also said that things had not gone well while he was getting dressed (apparently things kept falling off hangers), so I was not expecting great things. But I insisted that we, at least, wrote up yesterday's outing and produce a small photo album using a computer programme we have to go into our 'day's out' folder. As it was, he did pretty well. He didn't want to do the main bit of the typing up of the day so he dictated whilst I typed, however, he did do the photo album by himself including the layout and the text.
Was in a much better mood when leaving for trampoline class. Yay! Today was private lesson with Kim and he had a fab lesson. Practised lots of moves and his routine, ensuring positioning of arms and style of movement. Then onto the new way of somersaulting. Callum, as previously mentioned, has been having difficulty succeeding with the somersaults, so Kim has got him doing rolley polleys and then building up from there. Today he got to 3 jumps, a flip over, land and then stand from sitting. He did really well and is getting the tuck of the somersault a lot tighter so isn't travelling as far meaning that the move is looking a lot more controlled; which is good. A bit of daily practice of rollovers and the extra class in between with the group has definitely shown a difference which is brilliant news. Callum is a lot, lot happier with his work.
Then a bit of shopping and Subway. Subway was really busy and his favourite corner was already taken. Still decided to stay, but we had to sit separately to start with; me on a chair at the table (sitting sideways so that I could at least feel like I was next to him) and him in one of the armchairs (which he doesn't like anyway). Added to this the staff seemed stressed too and the ladies on the table where I was sitting had said they were finished and just leaving, but didn't make any attempt to move, plus the rest of the armchairs were occupied by college students. This all added up to a bit of a stress from Callum. Luckily our little corner soon became available and I got him to rush over and grab it while I brought over the stuff and bags. However, he was still so stressed that he wouldn't go and get his drink which he normally has no problems in doing and actually enjoys, so I had to get it for him. Thankfully by the time he'd eaten he'd calmed down enough to refill his cup and be himself again.
Once home we had a present to wrap and a card to write out as he's going to a party tomorrow and he spent the rest of the afternoon (and still is) on the computer playing a Facebook game.
Must point out that whilst in Subway we saw this wee little tot, must have been 4 yrs old, dressed in his school uniform carrying a school reading bag that was as big as him and a lunchbox that wasn't much smaller walking along the High Street with his mum several yards ahead. He threw down his lunchbox and had a strop to which his mum just ignored him! Poor little lad didn't look old enough to be in school and we both felt really sorry for him! Hate the fact we send our kids to school that young, seems so unfair!
Anyway, a day of ups and downs today. Hopefully tomorrow will be better, but then I'm off out tomorrow afternoon and Callum is with his dad. Am also hoping that they don't forget the party!
Callum's favourite bit of the day: "nearly landing the rolley polley with the jumps"
Cya
So what have we been up to? Well today did not start well for Callum as he didn't get up much before 10am and that was with me waking him up with a cuppa. Apparently he was determined to finish a book he's been reading, so stayed up until 11.30pm last night to finish it. Bearing in mind he was already tired from walking around yesterday (or so he says) I'm a bit annoyed that he stayed up so late, but what can you do? I'm glad he's been reading, but he really needs to manage his bedtime a bit more to ensure he gets enough sleep. I should probably tell him 'light's out', but he's 13 and I'd like to be able to give him a bit of responsibility to know when it's time to settle down. Plus I can't make him sleep and there's no evidence that he would have slept before then anyway especially if he was stressing about finishing the book.
So back to this morning. He woke up late, was tired and a tad grumpy to say the least. Was supposed to start HE at 10am and get a couple of things done before going trampolining, but by the time he'd eaten breakfast and come to a little it was nearly 11am! He also said that things had not gone well while he was getting dressed (apparently things kept falling off hangers), so I was not expecting great things. But I insisted that we, at least, wrote up yesterday's outing and produce a small photo album using a computer programme we have to go into our 'day's out' folder. As it was, he did pretty well. He didn't want to do the main bit of the typing up of the day so he dictated whilst I typed, however, he did do the photo album by himself including the layout and the text.
Was in a much better mood when leaving for trampoline class. Yay! Today was private lesson with Kim and he had a fab lesson. Practised lots of moves and his routine, ensuring positioning of arms and style of movement. Then onto the new way of somersaulting. Callum, as previously mentioned, has been having difficulty succeeding with the somersaults, so Kim has got him doing rolley polleys and then building up from there. Today he got to 3 jumps, a flip over, land and then stand from sitting. He did really well and is getting the tuck of the somersault a lot tighter so isn't travelling as far meaning that the move is looking a lot more controlled; which is good. A bit of daily practice of rollovers and the extra class in between with the group has definitely shown a difference which is brilliant news. Callum is a lot, lot happier with his work.
Then a bit of shopping and Subway. Subway was really busy and his favourite corner was already taken. Still decided to stay, but we had to sit separately to start with; me on a chair at the table (sitting sideways so that I could at least feel like I was next to him) and him in one of the armchairs (which he doesn't like anyway). Added to this the staff seemed stressed too and the ladies on the table where I was sitting had said they were finished and just leaving, but didn't make any attempt to move, plus the rest of the armchairs were occupied by college students. This all added up to a bit of a stress from Callum. Luckily our little corner soon became available and I got him to rush over and grab it while I brought over the stuff and bags. However, he was still so stressed that he wouldn't go and get his drink which he normally has no problems in doing and actually enjoys, so I had to get it for him. Thankfully by the time he'd eaten he'd calmed down enough to refill his cup and be himself again.
Once home we had a present to wrap and a card to write out as he's going to a party tomorrow and he spent the rest of the afternoon (and still is) on the computer playing a Facebook game.
Must point out that whilst in Subway we saw this wee little tot, must have been 4 yrs old, dressed in his school uniform carrying a school reading bag that was as big as him and a lunchbox that wasn't much smaller walking along the High Street with his mum several yards ahead. He threw down his lunchbox and had a strop to which his mum just ignored him! Poor little lad didn't look old enough to be in school and we both felt really sorry for him! Hate the fact we send our kids to school that young, seems so unfair!
Anyway, a day of ups and downs today. Hopefully tomorrow will be better, but then I'm off out tomorrow afternoon and Callum is with his dad. Am also hoping that they don't forget the party!
Callum's favourite bit of the day: "nearly landing the rolley polley with the jumps"
Cya
Thursday, 13 September 2012
A SLOW START
Good evening all you lovely people out there. How was your day? Ours was a bit of a slow start to be honest. I was shattered and didn't wake up until 8.30am and by the time I'd mentally surfaced after a cup of tea it was nearly 9am. Callum was still asleep, but woke about 15mins later.
I hate waking up late as the plan is normally to get up and do housework stuff before 10am, which is when we are supposed to start. Callum was still very sleepy. As he's now 13 I'm convinced the teenage hormones are really taking hold as he seems to be constantly hungry and constantly tired. But will he go to sleep early....well, sometimes he resists and goes about 10pm instead of midnight, but he still fights it. Routines and Aspergers can sometimes be a bit of a nightmare.
Anyway, as I really couldn't give him 100% attention this morning as I had so much stuff to do, I decided that today would be a good day to start the revision pages on maths that I'd typed up. I knew he could be left to do them without too much necessity for me to be there, but he could still stop me and ask if he didn't quite get the question or he needed to double check with me that he was on the right track.
Due to late rise we had a late breakfast, but it was a good opportunity to teach him how to do scrambled egg and beans on toast using the toaster and the microwave. I was washing up at the time, so he had supervision. He was really chuffed at how easy it was and that he'd managed to produce himself a decent breakfast by himself. Only thing he really has a problem with is the tin opener! I'll have to teach him how to do it properly a bit later, haha.
This afternoon we returned to the group trampolining class that I'd originally set up 6 years ago when I first pulled Callum from school. Having private lessons is doing him the world of good and he's progressing well, but I can only afford them fortnightly and he is beginning to find that he is falling back on the basics, so going fortnightly to the group class in between the private lessons will ensure he can practice the work Kim, his coach, gives him and keep on top of the basic moves. This will hopefully mean that his private lessons can concentrate of the elusive somersaults.
He thoroughly enjoyed the lesson and he loved seeing some of his friends again that he doesn't get to see as often as he'd like. So all good.
And what did he think of today? Well, he said that the trampolining was brilliant and that he felt more confident in what he was doing. He also said that he was beginning to understand why he was having trouble with the somersault landings as he was becoming aware of his legs. After one extra lesson, I'm rather pleased, so long may it continue.
On our return he went out in the garden and played in the sand pit and then did some more on the computer to the Command and Conquer mission he's doing.
Tomorrow with be a catch up day before the weekend; tying up loose ends and making sure we know what is planned for next week.
Cya
I hate waking up late as the plan is normally to get up and do housework stuff before 10am, which is when we are supposed to start. Callum was still very sleepy. As he's now 13 I'm convinced the teenage hormones are really taking hold as he seems to be constantly hungry and constantly tired. But will he go to sleep early....well, sometimes he resists and goes about 10pm instead of midnight, but he still fights it. Routines and Aspergers can sometimes be a bit of a nightmare.
Anyway, as I really couldn't give him 100% attention this morning as I had so much stuff to do, I decided that today would be a good day to start the revision pages on maths that I'd typed up. I knew he could be left to do them without too much necessity for me to be there, but he could still stop me and ask if he didn't quite get the question or he needed to double check with me that he was on the right track.
Due to late rise we had a late breakfast, but it was a good opportunity to teach him how to do scrambled egg and beans on toast using the toaster and the microwave. I was washing up at the time, so he had supervision. He was really chuffed at how easy it was and that he'd managed to produce himself a decent breakfast by himself. Only thing he really has a problem with is the tin opener! I'll have to teach him how to do it properly a bit later, haha.
This afternoon we returned to the group trampolining class that I'd originally set up 6 years ago when I first pulled Callum from school. Having private lessons is doing him the world of good and he's progressing well, but I can only afford them fortnightly and he is beginning to find that he is falling back on the basics, so going fortnightly to the group class in between the private lessons will ensure he can practice the work Kim, his coach, gives him and keep on top of the basic moves. This will hopefully mean that his private lessons can concentrate of the elusive somersaults.
He thoroughly enjoyed the lesson and he loved seeing some of his friends again that he doesn't get to see as often as he'd like. So all good.
And what did he think of today? Well, he said that the trampolining was brilliant and that he felt more confident in what he was doing. He also said that he was beginning to understand why he was having trouble with the somersault landings as he was becoming aware of his legs. After one extra lesson, I'm rather pleased, so long may it continue.
On our return he went out in the garden and played in the sand pit and then did some more on the computer to the Command and Conquer mission he's doing.
Tomorrow with be a catch up day before the weekend; tying up loose ends and making sure we know what is planned for next week.
Cya
Tuesday, 10 July 2012
YOU REMEMBER IT WAS WORKING? WELL.....
Hiya folks, hope you lovely people are all fab and gorgeous. We are having rather interesting weather here so far. It's been chucking it down one minute and then glorious sunshine the next. So am glad we haven't got much going out and about planned this week.
So far we have had a lovely lazy Monday in pjs all day. Now don't think we didn't do any schooling because we did, so there! Subjects on timetable (remember only two subjects per day) were Maths and English Literacy.
Maths was a couple of worksheets on area and perimeter; one was a straightforward one and one was a bit more of an exercise in using areas and perimeters in everyday life. It was called Martha's Garden and I found it on a website www.WorksheetWorks.com where there are loads of worksheets plus answers to download and they are free! Always a bonus. Callum had to work out the perimeter of the garden to decide how much fencing would be needed and then work out different areas to see where different plants would be grown. It was pretty basic, but it was interesting for Callum to see how the maths he is learning is used in day to day things. This is something that he enjoys as, like most things, he doesn't like learning it unless he can see a reason for doing so OR he really likes the subject. This is fine when it comes to using the computer or doing science, but the normal maths and english is something that he has to have a reason for.
Next was English Literacy. He has a list of books (I downloaded the recommended reading list for year 9 and went through them making a sub list of what I think Callum would enjoy plus a few that I felt were 'classics'. We have 4 on the list already; 2 that I own and 2 which we have obtained from the library. The idea of the literacy lesson is to review the book using a question and answer sheet and to have a general discussion. He's just started reading Slam by Nick Hornby and we had a little talk about the book, but as he has only read 3 chapters so far it wasn't a huge conversation and certainly not worth doing a sheet on yet. So what to do? Then I remembered that I had recorded a couple of the Shakespeare film adaptations that the BBC showed in their Shakespeare celebration and I decided that it might be an idea to watch one (or at least part of one). We had 4 to choose from: MacBeth, Twelfth Night, Othello and Merchant of Venice. Callum has already read MacBeth (in graphic form) and we had a MacBeth themed Halloween party last year, so he decided to watch that one. I didn't mind as that is probably my favourite Shakespeare.
I don't know about any of you, but as far as I'm concerned Shakespeare wrote plays, not books, so I think that the best way of studying them is to actually see them rather than read them. His language is often hard to read, but to watch it makes more sense and you can appreciate it more. We managed an hour of an hour and 50mins movie and Callum began to remember what he'd read and associate it with what he saw on screen, so that was good and when asked, he said he was enjoying it. It also meant we could talk about the story whilst we watched it. We'll aim to finish watching later on this week.
After lunch, as Callum had got into watching some telly, he chose to sit and watch The Blues Brothers for the 2nd time (his 2nd, my umpteenth) and we spent a lovely afternoon having a giggle.
Today was English Language and Trampolining. English Language had to be rejiggled as I, stupidly, hadn't looked at what was next in the book and it involved a lot of writing and I've vowed not to force him to do lots of writing as he says its hurts his shoulder to write. We have a hospital appointment in August to check to see if anything is physically wrong. So that page will be typed on the computer and we'll do that next time. After flipping through the workbook we decided on the page which was all about changing sentences from two to one using connecting words such as who, which, because, so, etc. He did really well and got them all correct. It's frustating as he knows the language and how to put it together, he just doesn't like writing it or doing the sheets, but he's getting there and his handwriting is getting neater and neater.
Trampolining went well. Routine and somersaults practised with him managed to nail 3 complete to feet somersaults, 2 of which were without using the mat. So well done Callum. He did get very frustrated with himself as he usually does because he could have nailed a lot more if he'd got his feet down instead of his knees. Must admit his coach, Kim, is getting just as frustrated and it is quite comical to see them both grrrring.
After trampolining we went off to Subway for lunch and then I had an optician's appointment. Callum decided that he didn't want to stay with me and for the first time ever he walked home, let himself in the house and waited for me at home. Well done mate! A small step each time amounts to something big in the end.
Tomorrow Terri should be visiting as usual and I'm hoping that the weather holds and she doesn't get wet.
Cya soon folks.
So far we have had a lovely lazy Monday in pjs all day. Now don't think we didn't do any schooling because we did, so there! Subjects on timetable (remember only two subjects per day) were Maths and English Literacy.
Maths was a couple of worksheets on area and perimeter; one was a straightforward one and one was a bit more of an exercise in using areas and perimeters in everyday life. It was called Martha's Garden and I found it on a website www.WorksheetWorks.com where there are loads of worksheets plus answers to download and they are free! Always a bonus. Callum had to work out the perimeter of the garden to decide how much fencing would be needed and then work out different areas to see where different plants would be grown. It was pretty basic, but it was interesting for Callum to see how the maths he is learning is used in day to day things. This is something that he enjoys as, like most things, he doesn't like learning it unless he can see a reason for doing so OR he really likes the subject. This is fine when it comes to using the computer or doing science, but the normal maths and english is something that he has to have a reason for.
Next was English Literacy. He has a list of books (I downloaded the recommended reading list for year 9 and went through them making a sub list of what I think Callum would enjoy plus a few that I felt were 'classics'. We have 4 on the list already; 2 that I own and 2 which we have obtained from the library. The idea of the literacy lesson is to review the book using a question and answer sheet and to have a general discussion. He's just started reading Slam by Nick Hornby and we had a little talk about the book, but as he has only read 3 chapters so far it wasn't a huge conversation and certainly not worth doing a sheet on yet. So what to do? Then I remembered that I had recorded a couple of the Shakespeare film adaptations that the BBC showed in their Shakespeare celebration and I decided that it might be an idea to watch one (or at least part of one). We had 4 to choose from: MacBeth, Twelfth Night, Othello and Merchant of Venice. Callum has already read MacBeth (in graphic form) and we had a MacBeth themed Halloween party last year, so he decided to watch that one. I didn't mind as that is probably my favourite Shakespeare.
I don't know about any of you, but as far as I'm concerned Shakespeare wrote plays, not books, so I think that the best way of studying them is to actually see them rather than read them. His language is often hard to read, but to watch it makes more sense and you can appreciate it more. We managed an hour of an hour and 50mins movie and Callum began to remember what he'd read and associate it with what he saw on screen, so that was good and when asked, he said he was enjoying it. It also meant we could talk about the story whilst we watched it. We'll aim to finish watching later on this week.
After lunch, as Callum had got into watching some telly, he chose to sit and watch The Blues Brothers for the 2nd time (his 2nd, my umpteenth) and we spent a lovely afternoon having a giggle.
Today was English Language and Trampolining. English Language had to be rejiggled as I, stupidly, hadn't looked at what was next in the book and it involved a lot of writing and I've vowed not to force him to do lots of writing as he says its hurts his shoulder to write. We have a hospital appointment in August to check to see if anything is physically wrong. So that page will be typed on the computer and we'll do that next time. After flipping through the workbook we decided on the page which was all about changing sentences from two to one using connecting words such as who, which, because, so, etc. He did really well and got them all correct. It's frustating as he knows the language and how to put it together, he just doesn't like writing it or doing the sheets, but he's getting there and his handwriting is getting neater and neater.
Trampolining went well. Routine and somersaults practised with him managed to nail 3 complete to feet somersaults, 2 of which were without using the mat. So well done Callum. He did get very frustrated with himself as he usually does because he could have nailed a lot more if he'd got his feet down instead of his knees. Must admit his coach, Kim, is getting just as frustrated and it is quite comical to see them both grrrring.
After trampolining we went off to Subway for lunch and then I had an optician's appointment. Callum decided that he didn't want to stay with me and for the first time ever he walked home, let himself in the house and waited for me at home. Well done mate! A small step each time amounts to something big in the end.
Tomorrow Terri should be visiting as usual and I'm hoping that the weather holds and she doesn't get wet.
Cya soon folks.
Friday, 29 June 2012
HE'S CONFIDENT! I'M NOT! BAD ME!
Hi all
Wow, that week went quick! Can't believe I last did this blog on Sunday. You must think we've been really busy and I suppose we have, but not because we've been out and about, we've actually done some work.
Callum and myself are feeling a little non motivated at the moment so trying to get into the spirit of doing 'work' has been really hard. He just wants to play on his games, occasionally see his friends and bounce around on the trampoline as the weather has allowed us outside in the garden for a change. Now there is nothing wrong with any of that and he has still being doing all of that.
I'm ready for the 'end of year' and having some time to catch up with sewing, gardening, knitting, etc. But I'm also very aware of the fact that the open day is looming and we still have stuff to finish. I'm also aware that Callum is now 13 and I'm suffering from one of my 'aaargh' moments. Those moments where I feel that we aren't doing enough; what will he do about qualifications; will he get a job; all those questions that all parents must have from time to time, but I also feel that if any of the above fails that it will be down to me! I know that everything is really fine. I know that Callum is learning, maybe not as much as he would do at school, but he's learning what he enjoys and enjoys what he learns and it's at his own pace. I'm pretty sure that he'll be fine when it's time to find work, but I'm still panicking and I do every year and I'm sure that as the years pass, I'll get worse and worse. The trick is not to let it influence my attitude towards what we do. I don't want our home ed experience to turn into one of me being teacher in front of him at a desk telling him what to do and how.
Callum on the other hand isn't having any of those worries. He is certain that he's going to get a job; he's certain that it will be in computers (games design) and he's pretty certain that he's going to end up emigrating to America to do it! I wish I had his confidence and his certainty, but I'm glad he has it. Before we started home education he didn't have any certainty of anything. He was a scared little boy; a frustrated and angry little boy with very little confidence and no idea of what he was good at. Home education has taught him that; it has allowed him to investigate his likes and dislikes and has allowed him to grow in confidence in his own capabilities. He may not be the most sociable kid on the block nor is he the bravest, but he has inner confidence and that is often more important.
So what 'work' have we done? Well, we looked at areas and perimeters of different shapes and looked at Pi. We talked about nouns, pronouns, verbs and adverbs. We talked about what books we wanted to read next year. We had a discussion about how our local area has changed since I was a kid. We wrote up the Horrible Histories theatre trip. We looked up Amelia Dyer, the Victorian baby farmer. We looked up the Charge of the Light Brigade. We looked at the Tudor family tree. We discussed next year's 'timetable'. He rediscovered Lego and built several Halo models and built a base to put them in.
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He built an alarm for his bedroom door and we went to trampolining lesson!
On top of that, we've had visitors, bounced around on the trampoline, read numerous Horrid Henry books and been shopping. Oh and, of course, played on the computer!
Cya
Wow, that week went quick! Can't believe I last did this blog on Sunday. You must think we've been really busy and I suppose we have, but not because we've been out and about, we've actually done some work.
Callum and myself are feeling a little non motivated at the moment so trying to get into the spirit of doing 'work' has been really hard. He just wants to play on his games, occasionally see his friends and bounce around on the trampoline as the weather has allowed us outside in the garden for a change. Now there is nothing wrong with any of that and he has still being doing all of that.
I'm ready for the 'end of year' and having some time to catch up with sewing, gardening, knitting, etc. But I'm also very aware of the fact that the open day is looming and we still have stuff to finish. I'm also aware that Callum is now 13 and I'm suffering from one of my 'aaargh' moments. Those moments where I feel that we aren't doing enough; what will he do about qualifications; will he get a job; all those questions that all parents must have from time to time, but I also feel that if any of the above fails that it will be down to me! I know that everything is really fine. I know that Callum is learning, maybe not as much as he would do at school, but he's learning what he enjoys and enjoys what he learns and it's at his own pace. I'm pretty sure that he'll be fine when it's time to find work, but I'm still panicking and I do every year and I'm sure that as the years pass, I'll get worse and worse. The trick is not to let it influence my attitude towards what we do. I don't want our home ed experience to turn into one of me being teacher in front of him at a desk telling him what to do and how.
Callum on the other hand isn't having any of those worries. He is certain that he's going to get a job; he's certain that it will be in computers (games design) and he's pretty certain that he's going to end up emigrating to America to do it! I wish I had his confidence and his certainty, but I'm glad he has it. Before we started home education he didn't have any certainty of anything. He was a scared little boy; a frustrated and angry little boy with very little confidence and no idea of what he was good at. Home education has taught him that; it has allowed him to investigate his likes and dislikes and has allowed him to grow in confidence in his own capabilities. He may not be the most sociable kid on the block nor is he the bravest, but he has inner confidence and that is often more important.
So what 'work' have we done? Well, we looked at areas and perimeters of different shapes and looked at Pi. We talked about nouns, pronouns, verbs and adverbs. We talked about what books we wanted to read next year. We had a discussion about how our local area has changed since I was a kid. We wrote up the Horrible Histories theatre trip. We looked up Amelia Dyer, the Victorian baby farmer. We looked up the Charge of the Light Brigade. We looked at the Tudor family tree. We discussed next year's 'timetable'. He rediscovered Lego and built several Halo models and built a base to put them in.
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He built an alarm for his bedroom door and we went to trampolining lesson!
On top of that, we've had visitors, bounced around on the trampoline, read numerous Horrid Henry books and been shopping. Oh and, of course, played on the computer!
Cya
Thursday, 17 May 2012
WE HAVE NO MOTIVATION
Hi all, yes I know it's been ages! We don't seem to have any motivation at the moment. Everyday is a struggle to get anything done or planned. I know that this is just a lull, but it's beginning to worry me.
Callum has definitely turned into a teen or at least a preteen. He's reading every night (which isn't a bad thing) until about 11pm, but that means he isn't getting up until 9am, sometimes 10am. Again, this isn't a real problem as we aren't having to get ready for school, but it does mean that by the time we are up and ready it's verging on lunchtime! The weather hasn't helped either as it's been so miserable that that affects my moods and I've been having more headaches and having a general feeling of blurgh!
So what have we done? Well, we've still been going to ice skating and the Faversham meetings and Callum has still be doing trampolining. He's now somersaulting! Did six this week, with 4 of those in a row! Go Callum!
Last weekend we held a charity tea party in aid of the Blue Cross (animals) and managed to raise just over £100. Callum helped make a few of the cakes and posted invites to the neighbours. He also helped clean up the house in readiness for our guests. So I suppose we could class that as life skills, haha.
Sunday we went off to the local Flower Festival at Cozenton and bought some veg and fruit plants for the garden and some alpines for Callum's little sink garden. It needs digging out and redoing, so that is something I'd like to get done before the weekend if the weather stays dry.
Monday this week we went off to London with his sister, Terri, to visit an art exhibition in Somerset House. We are supposed to be looking at colour and light and The Courtauld Gallery had a Mondrian/Nicholson exhibition on, so I thought that would be a good one to visit as Mondrian (and Nicholson) used blocks of colour. Callum really enjoyed it, in fact he also enjoyed having a look at the other exhibitions that were on, "I liked seeing the different ways of painting" he told me on Wednesday when we were doing a write up to go in our folder. In fact, he even said he would like to go and visit some other galleries!
Callum has definitely turned into a teen or at least a preteen. He's reading every night (which isn't a bad thing) until about 11pm, but that means he isn't getting up until 9am, sometimes 10am. Again, this isn't a real problem as we aren't having to get ready for school, but it does mean that by the time we are up and ready it's verging on lunchtime! The weather hasn't helped either as it's been so miserable that that affects my moods and I've been having more headaches and having a general feeling of blurgh!
So what have we done? Well, we've still been going to ice skating and the Faversham meetings and Callum has still be doing trampolining. He's now somersaulting! Did six this week, with 4 of those in a row! Go Callum!
Last weekend we held a charity tea party in aid of the Blue Cross (animals) and managed to raise just over £100. Callum helped make a few of the cakes and posted invites to the neighbours. He also helped clean up the house in readiness for our guests. So I suppose we could class that as life skills, haha.
Sunday we went off to the local Flower Festival at Cozenton and bought some veg and fruit plants for the garden and some alpines for Callum's little sink garden. It needs digging out and redoing, so that is something I'd like to get done before the weekend if the weather stays dry.
Monday this week we went off to London with his sister, Terri, to visit an art exhibition in Somerset House. We are supposed to be looking at colour and light and The Courtauld Gallery had a Mondrian/Nicholson exhibition on, so I thought that would be a good one to visit as Mondrian (and Nicholson) used blocks of colour. Callum really enjoyed it, in fact he also enjoyed having a look at the other exhibitions that were on, "I liked seeing the different ways of painting" he told me on Wednesday when we were doing a write up to go in our folder. In fact, he even said he would like to go and visit some other galleries!
Callum's own version of Mondrian
Afterwards we then walked back towards Waterloo East and went off to the Imperial War Museum for a couple of hours. Had totally forgotten how much of it there was and we have decided another visit is necessary. We only managed one floor and the main hall.
Callum with his sister, Terri
Just about reach!
As I've already said we had trampolining on Tuesday and yesterday Terri visited us again and they had a little art lesson on creating pictures in the style of Mondrian or Nicholson (see Callum's above).
Today, it's overcast again, I have a headache and Callum is in his pjs on the Wii. Tomorrow is the ice skating meet and we have Mini Beast Hunting and Tree Identification Walk at the weekend.
Hopefully we will feel more motivated next week. Not so out and about which means we might be able to get some experiments done and some more maths.
Cya
Tuesday, 17 April 2012
BEES, BOUNCING AND BROWSING
Hi all
Been a couple of days I know, but I had rather a bad night on Sunday and was far too shattered on Monday to write anything up, so catch up tonight.
The bee identification course we went to on Sunday was pretty good, but aimed at people already with a little knowledge, so a lot went over mine and the kids' heads. The journey there was good, thanks to Carol for driving, and Romney Marsh has to be the most strangest place in South England. It's almost alien, but really fascinating. Callum was rather interested in the lighthouse and the power station, but it was so windy that investigating will have to wait until another day.
As I've said the talk itself was a little in-depth, but we still managed to glean quite a bit of information. It was nice to have a closer look at some bees (admittedly they were dead ones) and, using a small lens and the info we'd been told to try and identify the different types.
Callum was very impressed that there are 250 different types of native bee not including the honey bee and they any of them can re-sting as their stingers are not barbed like the honey bee's and so they can retract them. This means that the myth that bees die once they have stung you only refers to honey bees.
There was a nice array of leaflets, seeds and posters at the back and we bought a couple of packs of seeds, a set of the magnifying lenses, an id leaflet and a badge. We also picked up some leaflets on gardening for bees.
We also had a quiz which Callum saved for Monday. I had to furiously write down answers and correct my mistakes so that I had a reference for him on the Monday (no mean feat when the names were in latin!).
Monday came and he did the quiz with very little help (which was much better than I had fared the day before) and we wrote up the day for our folder. Both of us weren't feeling 100% so we spent the afternoon watching a programme that I'd recorded ages ago about the Japanese Tsunami (Caught on Camera on Channel 4) and discussing what we'd seen, how we'd feel if it happened here and how they must have felt when it happened.
Today was trampolining and Kim, his coach, spent quite a bit of time trying to get Callum's positioning correct and trying to encourage him to get some height in his bouncing. Was strange to watch an instant improvement just by Kim getting Callum to sit on the side of the trampoline and him moving his legs into the positions that they should be in for each movement. Callum says it made it easier for him as he could feel the position and 'save' it in his head. He then did some more somersault work. They are now trying to remove the extra mat as they think it may be distracting Callum (I say they to represent Callum and Kim; I don't really have anything to do with it). Callum is now consistently getting the somersault and is now over turning rather than under turning which means he lands pretty much on his feet (and collapses) or over onto his knees. He did nail one though and I squealed like a girly; sorry Callum.
The rest of the day we spent on Youtube looking at Flashmobs and having a discussion on the fact that if a small group of strangers can get together and do something unique, what could we do as a complete species if we put our minds to it. Callum was rather interested in the idea of all armies putting down weapons and refusing to fight (his thoughts) and wondering what their respective Governments would do about it. Nice to know that his fascination for warfare and fighting has a peaceful side to it (at least he realises that what he plays isn't real and that the 'real' isn't a good thing).
Anyway, that about sums up the days we've had. I've missed out the umpteen cups of tea we've drunk, the browse around the garden, the rescuing of an abandoned umbrella and the starting of his new set of books (The Hunger Games). Oh and the watching of the new series of Horrible Histories on the BBC.
Cya later folks.
Thursday, 5 April 2012
A QUICK CATCH UP
Hiya
Well, got a few days to catch up on, but as we are still not 'back to normal' there isn't loads to write about.
We went to the home ed meet in Faversham last week and although Callum did spend quite a bit of time on his own playing on his DS, he did eventually disappear off with his mate Stewart into the computer room. So getting there slowly.
The following 3 days were a right off as Phil was off again and we couldn't really get on with anything.
Saturday, Callum went off with his dad to the fire station thing that we went to last weekend on the wrong day!!!
Saturday night was also Earth Hour. Between 8.30pm and 9.30pm we turned off all the electricity, lit candles and sat chatting. Earth Hour is run by WWF and happens every year. Callum loves doing it and I think it is something we should do more often than just the once a year. The first few minutes are the worse as there is no TV, no computer, no nothing, but actually it always turns out to be really enjoyable as we find other ways to entertain ourselves which normally means having a really good family talk.
Sunday we had a lovely walk with the dog at Riverside.
Then this week we had our friends Lorraine and Amy over on the Monday, which was lovely and relaxing and the kids spent all afternoon in the garden firing Nerf guns at targets and giggling.
Tuesday we had trampolining and Callum finally managed to nail at least 3 somersaults onto his feet which made him feel a lot better as he now understands what the movement feels like. Just need to work on getting them consistantly right now. Kim, his instructor, seemed pleased too. Then it was off to another friend's house for the afternoon where I again didn't see him the whole time we were there. Thank you Liz.
That brings us up to yesterday where we spent a glorious sunny morning with Terri and Merlin down at Riverside doing the Easter Bunny hunt. They had two types of card bunnies to find - yellow and blue. Yellow had clues for younger children and the blue had clues for older kids. Obviously we did the blue clues. Was a little easier than last year to find the bunnies, but still took approx an hour to complete. Callum got a chocolate egg for his troubles and then we went to the cafe for a cuppa and an ice cream. Decided to walk home as it was a lovely day and we can walk the majority of it along by the river.
Today we are having a proper day off. Pjs all day, no visitors, no dad, just us chilling out and watching some telly. Sometimes it's just necessary.
Cya
Well, got a few days to catch up on, but as we are still not 'back to normal' there isn't loads to write about.
We went to the home ed meet in Faversham last week and although Callum did spend quite a bit of time on his own playing on his DS, he did eventually disappear off with his mate Stewart into the computer room. So getting there slowly.
The following 3 days were a right off as Phil was off again and we couldn't really get on with anything.
Saturday, Callum went off with his dad to the fire station thing that we went to last weekend on the wrong day!!!
Saturday night was also Earth Hour. Between 8.30pm and 9.30pm we turned off all the electricity, lit candles and sat chatting. Earth Hour is run by WWF and happens every year. Callum loves doing it and I think it is something we should do more often than just the once a year. The first few minutes are the worse as there is no TV, no computer, no nothing, but actually it always turns out to be really enjoyable as we find other ways to entertain ourselves which normally means having a really good family talk.
Sunday we had a lovely walk with the dog at Riverside.
Then this week we had our friends Lorraine and Amy over on the Monday, which was lovely and relaxing and the kids spent all afternoon in the garden firing Nerf guns at targets and giggling.
Tuesday we had trampolining and Callum finally managed to nail at least 3 somersaults onto his feet which made him feel a lot better as he now understands what the movement feels like. Just need to work on getting them consistantly right now. Kim, his instructor, seemed pleased too. Then it was off to another friend's house for the afternoon where I again didn't see him the whole time we were there. Thank you Liz.
That brings us up to yesterday where we spent a glorious sunny morning with Terri and Merlin down at Riverside doing the Easter Bunny hunt. They had two types of card bunnies to find - yellow and blue. Yellow had clues for younger children and the blue had clues for older kids. Obviously we did the blue clues. Was a little easier than last year to find the bunnies, but still took approx an hour to complete. Callum got a chocolate egg for his troubles and then we went to the cafe for a cuppa and an ice cream. Decided to walk home as it was a lovely day and we can walk the majority of it along by the river.
Today we are having a proper day off. Pjs all day, no visitors, no dad, just us chilling out and watching some telly. Sometimes it's just necessary.
Cya
Tuesday, 22 November 2011
RUSH, RUSH, RUSH
Hi all
Had a busy day today which didn't start great as both Callum and I woke up already tired! Don't know why, but there you are.
Anyway, after a couple of cups of tea this morning, we did some cooking; butternut squash, apple and chilli soup with a butternut squash, black olive and cheese bread! Have decided that any veggie food Callum wants to have with me, we can cook together, so today was our first combined cooking effort. Thanks to our Pampered Chef chopper, Callum was able to easily chop up the olives and fresh rosemary and with the help of his kid friendly knife he tackled the apples. He also did a great job of mixing up the bread mixture. It wasn't technically a proper bread as it was made with self raising flour, but it turned out beautiful and smelled gorgeous when it came out of the oven. The dried chilli flakes came out of the jar in a bit of a rush, so we think the soup might be a bit on the hot side. More later. Should have taken photos, but forgot as we were in a hurry. Will try and post future cooking adventures.
Then brunch of dippy eggs and toast for him and left over savoury millet for me before walking to trampolining lesson where he threw himself around like a good 'un. Practiced lots of combi moves and learnt a new routine.
No time to stop as it was straight off to Rochester Guildhall Museum for a home ed workshop on the River Medway organised by the lovely Debs. Jeremy, the 'teacher', was fab as usual and had plenty of items for the kids to look at and get a feel off, so very interactive. AND!!!! Callum answered a question! Yes, he actually put up his hand and answered. He often knows the answers, but is too shy to put up his hand let alone answer. Was quite odd actually as I was talking to Lorraine and heard this voice next to me, but it didn't register for a couple of seconds that it was him. It was definitely a 'can't be; yes it is' moment. Got given a copy of the book that the museum has printed and Callum has already decided that it's the next one he'll read after Sir Gadabout.
Link above for a downloadable copy.
Back home and we had a much needed cup of tea, before reheating the soup and having that with the bread for tea. Actually, although rather spicy, it was really good and Callum loved it, so he's definitely a spice lover!
Then he was back onto Roblox and I monged in front of telly. He's now in his room with a ham sandwich and green olives watching cartoons.
Quiet day tomorrow!
Cya
Tuesday, 8 November 2011
CHRISTMAS IS COMING!
Hi all
Been a quiet couple of days to be honest. Were supposed to be going to a home ed meet in Maidstone on Monday, but both myself and Callum woke up a bit snuffly and didn't feel like going out. Instead we decided to plan Christmas. Callum helps me with the cooking preparations and we got down our box of presents and cards to see what we needed to get. I tend to buy bits and pieces throughout the year if something grabs me and its in a sale and they all go into a big box for birthday and Christmas presents.
We discovered that we didn't need any cards as we'd got them all in the January sales, so Callum has decided to try and write out a card a day as he hates doing them. He needs to make a list first though, so we'll do that by the end of the week.
We finished packing and cataloging the Halloween stuff and that went upstairs to the attic.
We then did pop up the town as its Draco's (our black labrador) birthday next Monday and the pet market stall is on Mondays. We bought a couple of treats and looked at a new bed for him as his is getting a bit tatty and flat!
Today we cleared out the under stairs cupboard. It is supposed to be the overflow kitchen cupboard with all the seasonal/birthday crockery, trays, etc, but it does tend to get used as a dumping cupboard. So, it was pull everything out, clear out the rubbish, tidy up the posters and papers and repack the boxes. Took off and on most of the day, but we now have lots of room and everything is pretty easy to get at. Callum got easily distracted by the posters and the art stuff and all the bits and pieces, which probably accounted for most of the time, but it got done!
Then off to trampolining where he was definitely put through his paces for 1/2 hr. He worked extremely hard and has nearly nailed another thing off his list which he's really pleased about. Oh, on the subject of achieving things, we heard yesterday that he has passed his Bronze Arts Award! Yay! I have written about this during previous posts and although relatively easy, making sure it was written up how they wanted it and covering everything they asked was pretty hard, plus doing or attending workshops is a big issue for Callum, so the fact that he managed it at all means I'm really pleased for him.
Whilst out we popped to the library to see if they had the next book from the one he has just finished, but sadly they didn't. Then off to charity shop to drop off some bits found in the cupboard and, of course, we couldn't resist having a look round. I managed to pick up a skirt and a jacket that came to the grand total of £3 and Callum took a liking to a Christmas mug for 20p! Then card shop for birthday cards and paper, then home, we also have his Uncle's birthday and a friend's daughter's birthday this weekend.
Since then, he's been back on his game, but he is now doing some maths and some word puzzles while I'm on here. Going to start limiting his time on computer otherwise he is and has been on it all day!
So that's it; busy, but at home and its been rather enjoyable. Tomorrow we need to check ingredients for mincemeat as want to make that on Thursday. He loves making the mincemeat as its really easy and a case of chucking everything into a big pan. Then, of course, we get the first smell of Christmas with all the dried fruit, spices and a touch of Brandy.....yum!
Cya
Been a quiet couple of days to be honest. Were supposed to be going to a home ed meet in Maidstone on Monday, but both myself and Callum woke up a bit snuffly and didn't feel like going out. Instead we decided to plan Christmas. Callum helps me with the cooking preparations and we got down our box of presents and cards to see what we needed to get. I tend to buy bits and pieces throughout the year if something grabs me and its in a sale and they all go into a big box for birthday and Christmas presents.
We discovered that we didn't need any cards as we'd got them all in the January sales, so Callum has decided to try and write out a card a day as he hates doing them. He needs to make a list first though, so we'll do that by the end of the week.
We finished packing and cataloging the Halloween stuff and that went upstairs to the attic.
We then did pop up the town as its Draco's (our black labrador) birthday next Monday and the pet market stall is on Mondays. We bought a couple of treats and looked at a new bed for him as his is getting a bit tatty and flat!
Today we cleared out the under stairs cupboard. It is supposed to be the overflow kitchen cupboard with all the seasonal/birthday crockery, trays, etc, but it does tend to get used as a dumping cupboard. So, it was pull everything out, clear out the rubbish, tidy up the posters and papers and repack the boxes. Took off and on most of the day, but we now have lots of room and everything is pretty easy to get at. Callum got easily distracted by the posters and the art stuff and all the bits and pieces, which probably accounted for most of the time, but it got done!
Then off to trampolining where he was definitely put through his paces for 1/2 hr. He worked extremely hard and has nearly nailed another thing off his list which he's really pleased about. Oh, on the subject of achieving things, we heard yesterday that he has passed his Bronze Arts Award! Yay! I have written about this during previous posts and although relatively easy, making sure it was written up how they wanted it and covering everything they asked was pretty hard, plus doing or attending workshops is a big issue for Callum, so the fact that he managed it at all means I'm really pleased for him.
Whilst out we popped to the library to see if they had the next book from the one he has just finished, but sadly they didn't. Then off to charity shop to drop off some bits found in the cupboard and, of course, we couldn't resist having a look round. I managed to pick up a skirt and a jacket that came to the grand total of £3 and Callum took a liking to a Christmas mug for 20p! Then card shop for birthday cards and paper, then home, we also have his Uncle's birthday and a friend's daughter's birthday this weekend.
Since then, he's been back on his game, but he is now doing some maths and some word puzzles while I'm on here. Going to start limiting his time on computer otherwise he is and has been on it all day!
So that's it; busy, but at home and its been rather enjoyable. Tomorrow we need to check ingredients for mincemeat as want to make that on Thursday. He loves making the mincemeat as its really easy and a case of chucking everything into a big pan. Then, of course, we get the first smell of Christmas with all the dried fruit, spices and a touch of Brandy.....yum!
Cya
Tuesday, 11 October 2011
FRIENDS, CAKE AND A PILE OF BROWN LEAVES
Good evening peoples.
Lovely day today; warm, sunny, but the leaves are all crispy and brown and red and gorgeous. Adore Autumn big time.
Did a quick tidy round and a quick maths and literacy session this morning, then it was a visit from Jo Daniels and her lovely baby Sophia. I should explain, if I haven't already, that Jo was one of Callum's Infant School teachers and he adored her. She was a fabulous teacher (still is) and really helped him out a lot and was very supportive. When we pulled him from school, she came along and did maths lessons with him until she got a promotion and had to give up due to being overloaded with work like all teachers are..bless her. Now she is a mummy and little Sophia is 8 months old. Gorgeous little thing and a very happy little lady.
Was lovely to see her and Callum loves the fact that we still meet up occasionally and catch up. Always a good excuse to bake cakes and sit and drink coffee. It was all timed to perfection as well as they were meeting up with friends for swimming at the same time as Callum had a trampolining lesson, so we had a lift to the Centre and an extended chat.
His lesson went well. He worked quite hard, but I don't think he was pushed enough today, although he didn't seem to be that bothered. Practicing 1/2 twist to back drop with last minute roll to front drop (those that do trampolining will know what I mean, but hope that explanation is enough for those who don't to be able to picture what he was up to). He also ran through his routine again which he is still managing to remember, so well done Callum.
Then a trip to the High Street (with me not being able to resist a pile of brown leaves to kick through...Callum rolling his eyes at me...huh!) to check out Halloween decs in the pound store (got some pretty good stuff and the goblets I'm after are in there which means it will work out cheaper than Wilkos). A visit to Smiths to try and find Teacher's Resource book I'm after, but as its an old one I was out of luck and they couldn't order it. Have found it on Amazon though, so might have to get it through them. Last, but not least, Nisa for wine vinegar for chutney making. Both fancied choccy at this point and they were doing 3 little bars of Dairy Milk (various flavours) at 3 for £1, so guess what we bought. Me being greedy (and hungry) couldn't wait until I got home, so I ate mine on the way...tut tut, but it was rather yummy!
Back home it was computer, dinner, bath and now he's relaxing in front of telly with his dad. Off out to visit friends tomorrow, so hopefully it will be another lovely day.
Cya
Lovely day today; warm, sunny, but the leaves are all crispy and brown and red and gorgeous. Adore Autumn big time.
Did a quick tidy round and a quick maths and literacy session this morning, then it was a visit from Jo Daniels and her lovely baby Sophia. I should explain, if I haven't already, that Jo was one of Callum's Infant School teachers and he adored her. She was a fabulous teacher (still is) and really helped him out a lot and was very supportive. When we pulled him from school, she came along and did maths lessons with him until she got a promotion and had to give up due to being overloaded with work like all teachers are..bless her. Now she is a mummy and little Sophia is 8 months old. Gorgeous little thing and a very happy little lady.
Was lovely to see her and Callum loves the fact that we still meet up occasionally and catch up. Always a good excuse to bake cakes and sit and drink coffee. It was all timed to perfection as well as they were meeting up with friends for swimming at the same time as Callum had a trampolining lesson, so we had a lift to the Centre and an extended chat.
His lesson went well. He worked quite hard, but I don't think he was pushed enough today, although he didn't seem to be that bothered. Practicing 1/2 twist to back drop with last minute roll to front drop (those that do trampolining will know what I mean, but hope that explanation is enough for those who don't to be able to picture what he was up to). He also ran through his routine again which he is still managing to remember, so well done Callum.
Then a trip to the High Street (with me not being able to resist a pile of brown leaves to kick through...Callum rolling his eyes at me...huh!) to check out Halloween decs in the pound store (got some pretty good stuff and the goblets I'm after are in there which means it will work out cheaper than Wilkos). A visit to Smiths to try and find Teacher's Resource book I'm after, but as its an old one I was out of luck and they couldn't order it. Have found it on Amazon though, so might have to get it through them. Last, but not least, Nisa for wine vinegar for chutney making. Both fancied choccy at this point and they were doing 3 little bars of Dairy Milk (various flavours) at 3 for £1, so guess what we bought. Me being greedy (and hungry) couldn't wait until I got home, so I ate mine on the way...tut tut, but it was rather yummy!
Back home it was computer, dinner, bath and now he's relaxing in front of telly with his dad. Off out to visit friends tomorrow, so hopefully it will be another lovely day.
Cya
Tuesday, 27 September 2011
AN UNEXPECTED STROLL
Hiya
Today was yet another glorious Autumn day, but it did start foggy. Love a bit of fog to walk in; like the idea of walking in a cloud.
We started a little early as we had to change our trampolining lesson to 9am as we were off to a party this afternoon. We arrived just as they were opening up, but our teacher was a little late as her lift to work didn't turn up, so she had to walk in a rush. Callum did really well again doing lots of moves that involved one move to a half or full twist and into another move, eg, front drop straight to half twist straight to front drop in opposite direction. He worked hard and enjoyed the last few minutes launching himself into the foam pit!
We'd taken his kite along with us as he fancied another session of flying it. Off we went to the lower part of the Great Lines, but there really wasn't enough breeze, so we wandered off to the upper part of the Lines in the hope that there would be more wind. Passed a couple of Community Officers on the way who just looked at us, said 'good morning' and walked on. Never ceases to amaze me that we are never asked why Callum isn't at school, but I'm not complaining.
Got to the top part of the Lines, but still no consistent breeze. But by this point we were talking about wildlife and pathways, both man-made and natural. I mentioned that the upper part of the Lines used to be all longer grass, but now they have only kept about half of it as there are birds that nest on the ground. Just as I said it one flew up which was quite cool. We then talked about the war memorial and Fort Amhurst. Callum spotted a train in the distance and wanted to know how it got from Chatham to Gillingham. I mentioned that it went under the Lines and he wanted to see where it went in, so we strolled right over the Lines almost to Chatham so he could see the entrance to the tunnel. Just as we got there a train appeared from underneath and went on its way to Chatham. We then walked back home dropping into the library to change some books. Both rather shattered to be honest, but it was a lovely unexpected stroll.
We dropped into Subway for some lunch and then it was home, drop off library books, pick up present and card, check dog and off we went again to catch bus back to Chatham and then onto Borstal. Popped into Arriva shop to pick up new timetables and D&A toys for an emergency pastel colouring pack just in case we can't get the mosaic kit before next Tuesday when we are supposed to be showing his sister something arty to go towards his Arts Award.
At the hall it was Lauren's 12th birthday party, so lots of running around, music, sweets, food, pass the parcel and general party noise of happy kids. Sun was glorious, so a lot of the time was spent outside. After much munching and singing happy birthday, gathering party bag and balloons and leftover biscuits we just managed to catch the bus home. He is now flaked out on the sofa going through his goodies and drinking a cuppa. I don't think he'll be doing much else today apart from the computer!
So, no maths, no literacy and no science today, just lots of fresh air, general chatter about geography and history and a nice social afternoon. I love home ed!!
Cya
Today was yet another glorious Autumn day, but it did start foggy. Love a bit of fog to walk in; like the idea of walking in a cloud.
We started a little early as we had to change our trampolining lesson to 9am as we were off to a party this afternoon. We arrived just as they were opening up, but our teacher was a little late as her lift to work didn't turn up, so she had to walk in a rush. Callum did really well again doing lots of moves that involved one move to a half or full twist and into another move, eg, front drop straight to half twist straight to front drop in opposite direction. He worked hard and enjoyed the last few minutes launching himself into the foam pit!
We'd taken his kite along with us as he fancied another session of flying it. Off we went to the lower part of the Great Lines, but there really wasn't enough breeze, so we wandered off to the upper part of the Lines in the hope that there would be more wind. Passed a couple of Community Officers on the way who just looked at us, said 'good morning' and walked on. Never ceases to amaze me that we are never asked why Callum isn't at school, but I'm not complaining.
Got to the top part of the Lines, but still no consistent breeze. But by this point we were talking about wildlife and pathways, both man-made and natural. I mentioned that the upper part of the Lines used to be all longer grass, but now they have only kept about half of it as there are birds that nest on the ground. Just as I said it one flew up which was quite cool. We then talked about the war memorial and Fort Amhurst. Callum spotted a train in the distance and wanted to know how it got from Chatham to Gillingham. I mentioned that it went under the Lines and he wanted to see where it went in, so we strolled right over the Lines almost to Chatham so he could see the entrance to the tunnel. Just as we got there a train appeared from underneath and went on its way to Chatham. We then walked back home dropping into the library to change some books. Both rather shattered to be honest, but it was a lovely unexpected stroll.
We dropped into Subway for some lunch and then it was home, drop off library books, pick up present and card, check dog and off we went again to catch bus back to Chatham and then onto Borstal. Popped into Arriva shop to pick up new timetables and D&A toys for an emergency pastel colouring pack just in case we can't get the mosaic kit before next Tuesday when we are supposed to be showing his sister something arty to go towards his Arts Award.
At the hall it was Lauren's 12th birthday party, so lots of running around, music, sweets, food, pass the parcel and general party noise of happy kids. Sun was glorious, so a lot of the time was spent outside. After much munching and singing happy birthday, gathering party bag and balloons and leftover biscuits we just managed to catch the bus home. He is now flaked out on the sofa going through his goodies and drinking a cuppa. I don't think he'll be doing much else today apart from the computer!
So, no maths, no literacy and no science today, just lots of fresh air, general chatter about geography and history and a nice social afternoon. I love home ed!!
Cya
Tuesday, 13 September 2011
BUSY, BUSY DAY!!
Wow, sorry this is a late post, but today has been very hectic.
We started slowly as Callum was really tired, so he didn't leap out of bed and start his daily worksheets over a cuppa as normal. Instead he rolled out of bed at 8.30am when I took him a cuppa, slid floppily down the stairs, slumped into the chair and.....played on the DS.
Actually I didn't really mind as I had some questions I wanted to print out to go with our lessons on Cells.
So we started at our 'official' time of 10am with the daily literacy and maths. Hmmmmm, that didn't go completely to plan either. Callum still wasn't up for the writing, but as I secretly knew he'd have a reasonable amount of writing to do in science I let him off. Maths went ok until it got to division, at which he went completely blank and forgot how to do it!! So we went over that with the result of "Oh yeah, now I remember", only for him to be flumoxed again because he'd forgotten how to use a protractor! He got himself in a right tizz and I called time out for a cup of tea.
After a breather we went over the sheet together and he was fine, so then it was science and cells. We were just covering "What is a Cell?" today, looking at what cells are made up of and what they do. Callum zoomed through it, coming up with his own way of remembering the longer words and answering the questions easily. There was me allotting 3/4hr to the 'lesson' and panicking about how long it had taken to the do the dailies and he breezed it in 25mins!!! Hey ho!
After a quick lunch it was off to trampolining. His first lesson of the new term and the first proper lesson without James, but with Sue. He was really enthusiastic about it all and worked really hard, surprising Sue on a couple of occasions as she tried to work him up to a more complicated move and he just went straight ahead and did it! Grrrr, annoying how sometimes he makes it look so easy, hehe. He even had time for a bit of fun in the foam pit which went down brilliantly with him.
So back home, couple of hours rest and then out again (told you it was a busy day). Off to Riverside for Junior Rangers, this month's theme - seeds. We walked around the fields looking at berries, seed heads, nuts and grasses and discussed how each was distributed through being either eaten by wildlife, blown by wind or by attaching itself to animal fur (or our clothes) and being brushed or pulled off.
Needless to say Callum (and I for that matter) were knackered by the end of the day and were very grateful to get home, have some dinner and chill out.
Hopefully tomorrow won't be quite so hectic.
Cya
We started slowly as Callum was really tired, so he didn't leap out of bed and start his daily worksheets over a cuppa as normal. Instead he rolled out of bed at 8.30am when I took him a cuppa, slid floppily down the stairs, slumped into the chair and.....played on the DS.
Actually I didn't really mind as I had some questions I wanted to print out to go with our lessons on Cells.
So we started at our 'official' time of 10am with the daily literacy and maths. Hmmmmm, that didn't go completely to plan either. Callum still wasn't up for the writing, but as I secretly knew he'd have a reasonable amount of writing to do in science I let him off. Maths went ok until it got to division, at which he went completely blank and forgot how to do it!! So we went over that with the result of "Oh yeah, now I remember", only for him to be flumoxed again because he'd forgotten how to use a protractor! He got himself in a right tizz and I called time out for a cup of tea.
After a breather we went over the sheet together and he was fine, so then it was science and cells. We were just covering "What is a Cell?" today, looking at what cells are made up of and what they do. Callum zoomed through it, coming up with his own way of remembering the longer words and answering the questions easily. There was me allotting 3/4hr to the 'lesson' and panicking about how long it had taken to the do the dailies and he breezed it in 25mins!!! Hey ho!
After a quick lunch it was off to trampolining. His first lesson of the new term and the first proper lesson without James, but with Sue. He was really enthusiastic about it all and worked really hard, surprising Sue on a couple of occasions as she tried to work him up to a more complicated move and he just went straight ahead and did it! Grrrr, annoying how sometimes he makes it look so easy, hehe. He even had time for a bit of fun in the foam pit which went down brilliantly with him.
So back home, couple of hours rest and then out again (told you it was a busy day). Off to Riverside for Junior Rangers, this month's theme - seeds. We walked around the fields looking at berries, seed heads, nuts and grasses and discussed how each was distributed through being either eaten by wildlife, blown by wind or by attaching itself to animal fur (or our clothes) and being brushed or pulled off.
Needless to say Callum (and I for that matter) were knackered by the end of the day and were very grateful to get home, have some dinner and chill out.
Hopefully tomorrow won't be quite so hectic.
Cya
Friday, 22 July 2011
FIRST WEEK OF SUMMER HOLS
Our first week off this week and we have done pretty much nothing! Callum has flitted between the computer and the Wii on most days, but he’s also been enjoying discovering music on YouTube. He now wants to listen to some more and really likes Zero-Project; a band from Greece who do instrumental music and whose track 'Gothic' is on his Roblox game. He continues his love of Madness and Ska in general too. Bit opposite ends of the spectrum, but nice to know that he can appreciate all types, hopefully.
Tuesday we went off to hall day and as we had so much swapsy stuff we needed to get a lift. Got rid of most of it and off loaded some more to a friend of ours on the Wednesday. The rest went to a charity shop today. We are concentrating on Science next year along with maths and literacy with a bit of art, sport and possibly music thrown in. This meant we needed to reduce our ‘stuff’ to make room for more ‘stuff’ that we need.
Callum didn’t really socialize at the hall, he does prefer to sit with us adults and drink tea whilst playing on his DS. It isn’t that he doesn’t like the children that are there, but I think, being 12, he is at that in between age.
We also went along to trampolining group on the Thursday which was nice. Got to see everyone again and Sue made it a bit of a fun session. Sue will be our new coach until James returns. Lorraine, Amy and Connor came back afterwards and whilst the kids played on the Wii, we had a good natter. Its funny how, when on his own turf, he will interact better with other children.
I think he has enjoyed his first week off, but I don’t want us to be stuck indoors all the time. He’s moaning at the moment, but I know he will get bored really quickly and start climbing the walls, so am trying to plan between 2-3 days a week where we do something, 2-3 days where we are at home and then, of course, there will be weekends.
Hopefully off to London on Sunday for an archaeology dig at London Bridge. Hope weather holds.
Tuesday we went off to hall day and as we had so much swapsy stuff we needed to get a lift. Got rid of most of it and off loaded some more to a friend of ours on the Wednesday. The rest went to a charity shop today. We are concentrating on Science next year along with maths and literacy with a bit of art, sport and possibly music thrown in. This meant we needed to reduce our ‘stuff’ to make room for more ‘stuff’ that we need.
Callum didn’t really socialize at the hall, he does prefer to sit with us adults and drink tea whilst playing on his DS. It isn’t that he doesn’t like the children that are there, but I think, being 12, he is at that in between age.
We also went along to trampolining group on the Thursday which was nice. Got to see everyone again and Sue made it a bit of a fun session. Sue will be our new coach until James returns. Lorraine, Amy and Connor came back afterwards and whilst the kids played on the Wii, we had a good natter. Its funny how, when on his own turf, he will interact better with other children.
I think he has enjoyed his first week off, but I don’t want us to be stuck indoors all the time. He’s moaning at the moment, but I know he will get bored really quickly and start climbing the walls, so am trying to plan between 2-3 days a week where we do something, 2-3 days where we are at home and then, of course, there will be weekends.
Hopefully off to London on Sunday for an archaeology dig at London Bridge. Hope weather holds.
Friday, 8 July 2011
BUSY, BUT SAD WEEK
It’s been a sad week this week! Callum’s trampolining teacher, James, is off to Australia next month and, Monday was our last private lesson with him. He kept it to a fun session mainly, but slipped in some revision work and some assisted somersaults. He will be so missed by Callum, myself and many others and I’m sure we will all be counting down the days until he comes back.
On the other hand, we hope he has a great time there and look forward to reading his blog about his adventures! Have fun James!!!
Actually we had quite a busy day Monday. We started dead on time which has been getting rarer and rarer as we are on a wind down of this year’s education.
We completed a sheet on Pluto, leaving us only with Dwarf planets to go. We also inputted our bug survey results and were very pleased to see that a few more people have done the survey in our area. The last one we did; we were the only ones. It’s a shame as they are great fun and free.
Phil and Callum finished the combustion engine kit over the weekend and Callum demonstrated it today with a very good explanation, so I think that will go on the demos list for his open day.
On top of that we uploaded and printed off some photos, rearranged some folders and ticked off stuff from the To Do list.
After trampolining we played Dino-opoly. We bought it ages ago and hadn’t got round to playing it. It’s pretty much the same as all other monopolies, but you have dinosaur information on the back of the cards and little quizzes. Callum, of course, won! He is very good at Monopoly; am sure he will be a property tycoon when he grows up.
Tuesday, I woke up with a sore throat and Callum complained his arm was hurting. We think he may have pulled a muscle yesterday, so he sat with an icepack on it for most of the morning and that, along with some paracetamol, seemed to do the trick. As I still felt lousy and we’d done so much yesterday, I said he could take the day easy, but he still insisted on doing his maths and literacy. Meanwhile I attempted to do a little brochure/programme for his open day with brief descriptions and explanations.
Wednesday, we were both feeling a little under the weather, but Callum still managed his maths and literacy and we completed our planet work with the dwarf planets, Eris, Ceres, Makemake, and Haumea. We then had a huge discussion regarding his open day. Trying to work out which rooms the stuff will go in and what demonstrations he was going to do. Oh yeah, we talked about geography this morning, looking up airports to start with on the road map and then went off on a tangent about rivers, mountains and the difference between built up areas and wild areas in different parts of the country; very interesting little chat.
Thursday, we went along to the group trampolining class and saw the kids getting their awards, which was nice. Also being able to see their progress was lovely and, of course, Callum got one more lesson with James. As for the rest of the day, we continued uploading and printing off photos and rewrote our Top Gear review from November last year as that was lost when our computer broke before Christmas.
Today, we just did maths and literacy as he was going off to see his friend, Callum D, this afternoon. But to be honest we really haven’t got much more work that needs doing.
On the other hand, we hope he has a great time there and look forward to reading his blog about his adventures! Have fun James!!!
Actually we had quite a busy day Monday. We started dead on time which has been getting rarer and rarer as we are on a wind down of this year’s education.
We completed a sheet on Pluto, leaving us only with Dwarf planets to go. We also inputted our bug survey results and were very pleased to see that a few more people have done the survey in our area. The last one we did; we were the only ones. It’s a shame as they are great fun and free.
Phil and Callum finished the combustion engine kit over the weekend and Callum demonstrated it today with a very good explanation, so I think that will go on the demos list for his open day.
On top of that we uploaded and printed off some photos, rearranged some folders and ticked off stuff from the To Do list.
After trampolining we played Dino-opoly. We bought it ages ago and hadn’t got round to playing it. It’s pretty much the same as all other monopolies, but you have dinosaur information on the back of the cards and little quizzes. Callum, of course, won! He is very good at Monopoly; am sure he will be a property tycoon when he grows up.
Tuesday, I woke up with a sore throat and Callum complained his arm was hurting. We think he may have pulled a muscle yesterday, so he sat with an icepack on it for most of the morning and that, along with some paracetamol, seemed to do the trick. As I still felt lousy and we’d done so much yesterday, I said he could take the day easy, but he still insisted on doing his maths and literacy. Meanwhile I attempted to do a little brochure/programme for his open day with brief descriptions and explanations.
Wednesday, we were both feeling a little under the weather, but Callum still managed his maths and literacy and we completed our planet work with the dwarf planets, Eris, Ceres, Makemake, and Haumea. We then had a huge discussion regarding his open day. Trying to work out which rooms the stuff will go in and what demonstrations he was going to do. Oh yeah, we talked about geography this morning, looking up airports to start with on the road map and then went off on a tangent about rivers, mountains and the difference between built up areas and wild areas in different parts of the country; very interesting little chat.
Thursday, we went along to the group trampolining class and saw the kids getting their awards, which was nice. Also being able to see their progress was lovely and, of course, Callum got one more lesson with James. As for the rest of the day, we continued uploading and printing off photos and rewrote our Top Gear review from November last year as that was lost when our computer broke before Christmas.
Today, we just did maths and literacy as he was going off to see his friend, Callum D, this afternoon. But to be honest we really haven’t got much more work that needs doing.
Friday, 1 July 2011
SPENDING TIME AT HOME
Okay, this week’s update.
Monday was private trampolining. Not long now and James will be off to Aussie. Callum worked hard and got something ticked off badge 8 – yay!!! Terri came along to spend the day with us, so she was there to see what he’s been up to. He’s quite impressive now, especially if you haven’t seen him for a while. I also got Terri to help him make his Sun viewer for his Space project. Cereal box, tin foil, cellotape and a pin hole – all good stuff and it works!
Tuesday morning I was off to Osteo. Callum decided to come with me. We popped into the hairdressers on way home to change our appointment so we can go along to the last trampolining group with James next week. Will be nice to see everyone again and it means we get 2 more lessons in instead of 1. Callum’s new game turned up in the post so he was a happy bunny. Super ScribbleNauts on DS. It’s pretty good from what I’ve seen and he has to spell things so will hopefully help with his words and his confidence in spelling.
Wednesday, Thursday and today we have been at home. Although we did go shopping on Wednesday evening for food and to get his best friend’s present ready for Sunday. We also bought a Haynes Combustion Engine kit. Thought it would be something he can do with dad and also be educational. If they finish it before the 16th we can add it to his Transport project. The rest of the time we wrote up some planet sheets, printed off photos, watched DVDs on Pluto, 1st two episodes of Blue Planet and Horrible Histories on catch up.
Thursday was an extra special day for me as I had a really interesting conversation with Callum about space. Callum started out looking at orbits and came to the conclusion that as planets orbit around the Sun, we, the planets, are in effect Star moons because we orbit around our star (the Sun). He also noticed that planets increase their number of moons as the distance from the Sun increases until you reach Jupiter. After that the number of moons decreases again. He wondered if the number of moons was also affected by the heat of the planet and the distance from the Sun.
We also talked about black holes (he’s fascinated by them) and he is convinced that they must go somewhere. His argument for this is that as Science believes there is no such thing as nothing, how can a black hole contain nothing? Where does all the stuff go to that is sucked in? He also wanted to know what the Universe expanding into as he knows that they say it is expanding? He then came up with an idea that the universe itself could be a sphere?
After having a cup of tea he suddenly went on to explain that if our sun is a large star it will expand, then implode and form a core which will gain mass and pressure and then collapse to form a black hole, which sucks everything into it. If our sun is a small star it will expand as before, then implode and become a dwarf star which continues to release its remaining heat and light until it eventually burns out.
I have to say that I was rather astounded that he:
a) Remembered so much and,
b) Was thinking so intricately
I am always surprised at how much sinks in without me really noticing or really doing that much intensive work! However, I probably should check the facts of the bit about suns as I can’t remember any of that!!!!!
Today we continued with project work but also did our Opal Bug Survey. It’s rather handy not having a pristine garden as it meant we had loads of different environments to look for the bugs. Callum really enjoyed it, but then he normally does enjoy the Opal Surveys.
Hopefully this weekend will be him and Phil doing the Combustion Engine and possibly spending some time in the garden. And on Sunday we will be off to his friend’s house for his birthday.
Monday was private trampolining. Not long now and James will be off to Aussie. Callum worked hard and got something ticked off badge 8 – yay!!! Terri came along to spend the day with us, so she was there to see what he’s been up to. He’s quite impressive now, especially if you haven’t seen him for a while. I also got Terri to help him make his Sun viewer for his Space project. Cereal box, tin foil, cellotape and a pin hole – all good stuff and it works!
Tuesday morning I was off to Osteo. Callum decided to come with me. We popped into the hairdressers on way home to change our appointment so we can go along to the last trampolining group with James next week. Will be nice to see everyone again and it means we get 2 more lessons in instead of 1. Callum’s new game turned up in the post so he was a happy bunny. Super ScribbleNauts on DS. It’s pretty good from what I’ve seen and he has to spell things so will hopefully help with his words and his confidence in spelling.
Wednesday, Thursday and today we have been at home. Although we did go shopping on Wednesday evening for food and to get his best friend’s present ready for Sunday. We also bought a Haynes Combustion Engine kit. Thought it would be something he can do with dad and also be educational. If they finish it before the 16th we can add it to his Transport project. The rest of the time we wrote up some planet sheets, printed off photos, watched DVDs on Pluto, 1st two episodes of Blue Planet and Horrible Histories on catch up.
Thursday was an extra special day for me as I had a really interesting conversation with Callum about space. Callum started out looking at orbits and came to the conclusion that as planets orbit around the Sun, we, the planets, are in effect Star moons because we orbit around our star (the Sun). He also noticed that planets increase their number of moons as the distance from the Sun increases until you reach Jupiter. After that the number of moons decreases again. He wondered if the number of moons was also affected by the heat of the planet and the distance from the Sun.
We also talked about black holes (he’s fascinated by them) and he is convinced that they must go somewhere. His argument for this is that as Science believes there is no such thing as nothing, how can a black hole contain nothing? Where does all the stuff go to that is sucked in? He also wanted to know what the Universe expanding into as he knows that they say it is expanding? He then came up with an idea that the universe itself could be a sphere?
After having a cup of tea he suddenly went on to explain that if our sun is a large star it will expand, then implode and form a core which will gain mass and pressure and then collapse to form a black hole, which sucks everything into it. If our sun is a small star it will expand as before, then implode and become a dwarf star which continues to release its remaining heat and light until it eventually burns out.
I have to say that I was rather astounded that he:
a) Remembered so much and,
b) Was thinking so intricately
I am always surprised at how much sinks in without me really noticing or really doing that much intensive work! However, I probably should check the facts of the bit about suns as I can’t remember any of that!!!!!
Today we continued with project work but also did our Opal Bug Survey. It’s rather handy not having a pristine garden as it meant we had loads of different environments to look for the bugs. Callum really enjoyed it, but then he normally does enjoy the Opal Surveys.
Hopefully this weekend will be him and Phil doing the Combustion Engine and possibly spending some time in the garden. And on Sunday we will be off to his friend’s house for his birthday.
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