When I was deciding on the title for this blog, I found myself searching for the appropriate name. It’s not really homeschool, but more like moms morning out meets a play date with some preschool sprinkled on top. A perfect combination of learning and fun with a break for the moms.
My third baby has the magical birthday of September 2nd. I have to admit, I was happy that her birthdate would dictate that she misses the cut off for school and that I would not have to make that decision. But when trying to find a good fit for preschool, it was tricky! She would have been placed in a 1-year-old classroom, and that worried me because she would be 2.
While discussing this with a girlfriend who’s in a similar situation, the idea for “Tot School” was born. We decided to find two more kids with similar birthdays and make it two boys and two girls. Our vision was to provide a fun environment for the children to learn and develop social skills while giving the moms some time away.
How We Did It
Over the summer we met at everyone’s house once for a playdate. We discussed the details and planned the year.
- Developed the school year calendar with our breaks and holidays. We decided the hours would be 9-12:30.
- Chose host days. We coordinated it so that we each have an “on call’ partner. If for some reason the host us unable to have school on the scheduled day the on-call partner would take the day. With all of us having two and three kids, this was sure to happen and has. I know that I will either host or be on call on Tuesdays, so I make all my appointments on Thursdays.
- Set up the schedule. To provide consistency, we try and stick to the same time frames each school day. The day includes free time, circle time, arts and crafts, snack, outside, story time, lunch, music and free play. This seemed important in the planning but has become less important as we have moved through the year. Every day proves to be different and everyone loves the change.
- Developed a curriculum. We have the year broken down into colors and themes. Each host can come up with their own activities. Once a month we try to get together for a field trip.
- Discussed lunch and snack. We decided the host would feed the children. I am so happy we did it this way. My daughter has eaten new things and I like that they all sit and eat the same thing together. It makes it easier.
- What to bring-Nothing! The host provides everything. It makes it so easy on the days that we drop off and easier on the host mom because you don’t have to keep up with everyone’s things.
To kick off the year, we did shorter mornings the first week. This was a good transition because they all cried a little and were unsure of the program. Every week it seems to just get better and easier. The kids are all so comfortable with each other and enjoy going to each other’s houses. They have each learned and grown so much in the last 7 months.
Why I love it!
- My daughter has a playdate set two times a week with her best friends.
- I get to spend time with the kids and watch them grow, change and learn so much!
- I enjoy my mornings away to run errands and make appointments without having to hire a sitter.
- My daughter has learned to be away from me in a small comfortable setting. She LOVES going to school!
- I have made four great friends and learned many things too. Each of us brings new ideas and different strengths to the table.
This set up is a great mix of learning and socialization while offering the moms a break! I feel very fortunate that we have come together and make it happen!
Do you have organized play dates or a homeschool tot-school story? Please share below!
