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Juggling Homeschool and Housework: Tips for Time-Poor Families!

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If you’re like us, trying to find the perfect balance between homeschooling and keeping up with housework can feel like attempting a circus act! But fear not, because, in this blog post, we’ve got your back with some fantastic tips to help you navigate this exhilarating ride! Let’s dive in and discover how you can master the art of juggling it all! 

1. Embrace the Flexi-Schedule

Sticking to a rigid schedule with kids at home can be as tough as herding cats! Instead, create a flexible daily routine that allows room for spontaneity and adjusts to unexpected situations. Flexibility is the key to staying sane!

2. Make Chores a Family Affair

Housework doesn’t have to be tedious, boring or overwhelming. Involve the whole family and turn chores into a fun team activity! Make it a competition. Assign age-appropriate tasks to your little ones and let them unleash their inner cleaning superheroes. Remember, teamwork makes the dream work!

3. Learning in the Real World

Homeschooling doesn’t always have to happen within four walls. Embrace the world as your classroom! Teach math while measuring ingredients for cookies, explore science in the garden, and learn about history through storytelling. The world is your oyster for learning!

4. Prioritize with Purpose

Let’s face it, not everything can be a top priority. Focus on essential tasks and be gentle with yourself about the rest. A little bit of mess won’t overshadow the love and memories you’re creating at home!

5. Breaks for the Win

It’s not just about homeschooling and housework; it’s also about fun and bonding! Take breaks together to dance, laugh, or have a silly moment. These small pauses will recharge you all for the next adventure! 

6. The Power of Family Support

We all need a helping hand sometimes! Enlist the support of your partner, relatives, or friends. Share responsibilities and lean on each other when needed. Together, you’re an unstoppable force!

7. Tech-Savvy Learning

Embrace technology as your ally! Utilise educational apps, interactive online resources, and virtual experiences to enhance homeschooling while you manage household tasks. Tech-savvy learning can be a game-changer!

8. Don’t Forget “Me” Time

In the whirlwind of homeschooling and housework, self-care often takes a backseat. Remember, you’re a hero too, and heroes need self-care! Take moments for yourself, whether it’s reading a book, going for a walk, or simply indulging in a cup of tea.

Let’s face it; juggling homeschooling and housework can be chaotic, but it’s also a beautiful journey filled with growth and love. Embrace the imperfections, celebrate the little victories, and cherish the memories you’re creating together. You’ve got this!

Share your tips and experiences in the comments below. Let’s build a supportive community of time-poor superheroes, cheering each other on! 

Thanks for reading and if you haven’t already jump over and follow us on Facebook or on Instagram or leave a comment on our blog. Until next time xx Tennille – Barker Family Adventure 

Photo by Scott Umstattd on Unsplash

Barker Family Adventures

Sibling Spacing: Find the sweet spot in age gaps

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It’s the million dollar question that probably comes up in almost every couple’s convo when they discuss having children or adding to their family. The ideal age gap between siblings can vary greatly depending on various factors like fertility, maternal age, personal preferences, family dynamics, and cultural considerations. What do you think is the perfect gap?

Our first child was born when we were 18 years old. Just a few years earlier than what we might have planned for. Our second child arrived 6 years later when we were in our mid 20’s. Child number 3 arrived 12 years after that in our late 30’s and although that gap should have been much closer unfortunately that was out of our hands with 2 miscarriages in between and for a while we just didn’t get pregnant which happens sometimes. So we would say large gaps are awesome because that is all we have known. However, do be prepared to answer the ‘Do they have the same dad’ question a million times!

Let’s consider the following points and explore this topic a little more:

Personal Factors:

    • Consider your own family circumstances, such as your age, lifestyle, and readiness to have another child. We all have unique needs and capabilities, so what works for one may not work for another.
    • What is your parenting style and how are your energy levels? Having children close in age might mean dealing with the challenges of raising multiple young children simultaneously, while a larger age gap could allow you to focus more on each child’s individual needs. We can confirm that our first 2 children have both felt like they were from an only child family at times having 100% full parents attention.

Sibling Bond:

    • Research suggests that siblings with smaller age gaps tend to develop closer relationships and shared interests. They may also be more likely to have common experiences, play together, and provide emotional support to one another. 

Although with this point we would say our large gaps are the same. Our older 2 like similar things, played together, love hanging out together and a bonus for Mr C is big sister can take him places. So for us these things are more how you are raised than age gap alone as we know plenty of people who have same age gaps or less and their kids do not do the above well at all. 

    • On the other hand, larger age gaps can allow each child to have their own space and independence, potentially leading to less rivalry and more individual attention from parents.

Parental Attention:

    • Having children with a smaller age gap may require dividing your attention and resources more intensively. Consider how you can manage the demands of multiple young children and ensure each child receives the necessary attention, nurturing, and guidance.
    • A larger age gap can allow you to focus more on each child individually during their critical developmental stages, as you may have more experience and time available.

Practical Considerations:

    • Finances are something that may play a significant role when deciding on the age gap between siblings. It can be expensive to raise children, so consider the financial impact of having multiple children close together or further apart.

Remember you don’t always need the latest greatest newest things and buying secondhand can save you a lot of money. Although I personally wouldn’t buy a secondhand car seat unless I definitely knew how it was treated and stored etc. and cot mattresses. I would only buy new ones also. That is just personal preference.

    • Then you have the logistics of managing multiple children at different stages of life. Having children with smaller age gaps may involve coordinating schedules, school activities, and childcare arrangements.

Individual Development:

    • This can influence the individual development of each child. Smaller age gaps might mean that siblings go through similar stages and milestones together, which has its advantages in terms of shared experiences and support.
    • Larger age gaps can offer older siblings an opportunity to develop leadership and caregiving skills, and they may also enjoy mentoring and guiding their younger siblings.

Now something we have heard is people implying that the older sibling must be parenting the younger ones. We can assure you this doesn’t happen nor would we allow it. It’s also something people assume about larger families and whilst I am sure there are families out there that do utilise their older children as babysitters, We do NOT. And it’s also none of our business how other families choose to parent. Although when our oldest asks if she can take her siblings out for the day we don’t hesitate to say YES!!  

Ultimately, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to what the perfect age gap between siblings should be. Consider your family’s unique circumstances, personal preferences, and priorities when making this decision. What matters most is creating a loving and supportive environment for your children, regardless of the age gap between them. Big age gaps can work just as well as smaller age gaps. It is a decision for you and your family, not anyone else.

Thanks for reading and if you haven’t already jump over and follow us on Facebook or on Instagram or leave a comment on our blog. Until next time xx Tennille – Barker Family Adventure 

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From Garden to Table: Growing Winter Vegetables in Australia

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June 2023 is here already. I feel like the year has gone by in a flash. We’ve been prepping garden beds and decided we would try a winter crop to keep our supply of fresh veggies up. It’s incredible the amount of money we are able to save on our grocery shop by being able to supply our own. And as is the case for most families every single dollar counts.

Growing winter vegetables in Australia offers numerous benefits. It allows for an extended growing season, enabling you to have fresh produce throughout the colder months. Many winter vegetables, such as broccoli, kale, and cauliflower, thrive in cooler temperatures, making them ideal choices for winter gardening. You also don’t require much space to grow a pot of kale or a few broccoli plants.

Another significant advantage is cost savings. Purchasing winter vegetables from the supermarket can be expensive, particularly if they are out of season. By growing your own winter vegetables, you can avoid inflated prices and enjoy the satisfaction of producing your own organic, cost-effective produce.

Winter vegetables are packed with essential nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. By cultivating your own winter vegetables, you have control over their growth, ensuring they are fresh, flavorful, and rich in nutritional value. It’s a fantastic way to provide your family with wholesome, nourishing food.

Growing winter vegetables contributes to sustainability. By reducing reliance on imported, out-of-season produce, you reduce transportation emissions and support local agriculture. It’s an eco-friendly choice that promotes self-sufficiency and reduces your carbon footprint.

The act of growing your own winter vegetables provides a rewarding and fulfilling experience. Harvesting your home-grown produce and enjoying it at the dinner table is incredibly satisfying. Gardening also offers a chance to connect with nature, spend time outdoors, and find solace in nurturing plants, fostering mental well-being. If you are a family it’s also a great opportunity to spend time together learning, growing, and soaking up vitamin D.

Best Winter Vegetables to Grow in Australia

  • Kale
  • Broccoli
  • Carrots
  • Spinach
  • Brussels sprouts
  • Cauliflower
  • Cabbage
  • Beetroot
  • Peas
  • Radishes

Here’s some information about each of the vegetables:

  1. Kale – Kale is a nutrient-dense leafy green that thrives in cooler weather. It’s packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium, iron, and antioxidants. It’s also a great source of fiber.

  2. Broccoli – Broccoli is another nutritious vegetable that does well in cooler temperatures. It’s high in vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, and fiber. It also contains sulforaphane, a compound that has been linked to cancer prevention.

  3. Carrots – Carrots are a root vegetable that can be grown throughout the year in Australia. They’re high in vitamin A, as well as fiber and other important nutrients.

  4. Spinach – Spinach is a versatile leafy green that can be used in salads, smoothies, and cooked dishes. It’s packed with iron, vitamin K, vitamin A, and other important nutrients.

  5. Brussels sprouts – Brussels sprouts are a member of the cabbage family and are known for their distinctive flavor. They’re high in vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber.

  6. Cauliflower – Cauliflower is a versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes, from roasted cauliflower to cauliflower rice. It’s high in vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber.

  7. Cabbage – Cabbage is a cruciferous vegetable that is high in vitamin C and fiber. It’s also a good source of vitamin K and other important nutrients.

  8. Beetroot – Beetroot is a root vegetable that is high in antioxidants and other important nutrients. It’s also known for its natural sweetness and vibrant color.

  9. Peas – Peas are a legume that can be grown in cooler weather. They’re high in protein, fiber, and other important nutrients.

  10. Radishes – Radishes are a root vegetable that are easy to grow and add a crisp, refreshing flavor to salads and other dishes. They’re high in vitamin C and other important nutrients.

When it comes to growing winter vegetables in Australia, there are a few tips to keep in mind:

  • Timing: Make sure to plant your winter vegetables early enough to allow them to mature before the hottest months of the year.
  • Soil preparation: Winter vegetables do best in soil that is rich in organic matter and well-draining. Consider adding compost or other organic amendments to your soil before planting.
  • Watering: Winter vegetables still need regular watering, but be careful not to overwater them, as this can lead to root rot.
  • Fertilizing: Consider using a slow-release fertilizer or organic amendments to provide your plants with the nutrients they need throughout the growing season.
  • Pests and diseases: Keep an eye out for common pests and diseases that can affect winter vegetables, such as aphids, caterpillars, and powdery mildew. 

Pest and Disease Management

  1. Aphids: These small insects can be a problem for many types of winter vegetables. They suck the sap from plants, causing them to become weakened and distorted. You can try removing aphids by hand or using a strong stream of water to wash them off. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids.

  2. Caterpillars: Caterpillars can be a problem for brassica vegetables, such as broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower. They can eat the leaves and cause significant damage. You can try removing caterpillars by hand or using Bacillus Thuringiensis (BT), a natural bacterial insecticide that specifically targets caterpillars.

  3. Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white, powdery coating on leaves, stems, and flowers. It can weaken plants and reduce their productivity. Powdery mildew thrives in humid conditions, so try to avoid overhead watering and ensure good air circulation around your plants. You can also use a fungicide to control powdery mildew.

  4. Root rot: This fungal disease can affect the roots of many types of winter vegetables, causing them to become weak and stunted. It’s usually caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil. To prevent root rot, make sure your soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering your plants.

  5. Slugs and snails: These pests can be a problem for many types of winter vegetables, especially those with tender leaves. They can eat the leaves and leave slimy trails behind. You can try using physical barriers, such as copper tape or diatomaceous earth, to keep slugs and snails away from your plants. You can also use iron phosphate-based baits to control slugs and snails.

Remember to regularly inspect your winter vegetable garden for signs of pests and diseases, and take action promptly if you notice any issues. With proper care and management, you can enjoy a healthy and productive winter vegetable garden in Australia.

Benefits of Growing Winter Vegetables in Australia

  1. Extended growing season: By planting winter vegetables in Australia, you can extend your growing season and enjoy fresh, home-grown produce throughout the colder months. Many winter vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, and kale, actually prefer cooler temperatures and can thrive in winter conditions.

  2. Cost savings: Growing your own winter vegetables can also save you money on your grocery bills. Winter vegetables can be expensive to purchase from the supermarket, especially when they are out of season. By growing your own, you can avoid these high costs and enjoy fresh, organic produce at a fraction of the cost.

  3. Nutritional benefits: Winter vegetables are often rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that are essential for good health. By growing your own winter vegetables, you can ensure that you and your family are getting the freshest, most nutritious produce possible.

  4. Sustainability: Growing your own winter vegetables is also a sustainable choice that can reduce your carbon footprint. By reducing your reliance on imported, out-of-season produce, you can help to reduce transportation emissions and support local agriculture.

  5. Gardening satisfaction: Finally, growing your own winter vegetables can be a rewarding and satisfying experience. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of harvesting your own home-grown produce and enjoying it at the dinner table. Gardening can also be a great way to get outdoors, connect with nature, and reduce stress and anxiety.

So why not give it a try and start planning your winter vegetable garden today?

Thanks for reading and if you haven’t already jump over and follow us on Facebook or on Instagram or leave a comment on our blog. Until next time xx Tennille – Barker Family Adventure 

Photo by Nick Fewings on Unsplash Thanks for allowing us to use your pic!

Barker Family Adventures

Nature: Why You Should Get Outside When Life Gets Overwhelming

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Life can be stressful. Between work, family, and the endless to-do list that seems to keep growing, it’s easy to feel like you’re drowning in responsibilities. But when things start to feel like too much, there’s one thing that can help you feel better: nature.

There’s something magical about being outside. Feeling the sun on your skin, breathing in the fresh air, and letting the wind blow through your hair can do wonders for your soul. And when life feels overwhelming, getting outside can help you find the peace and clarity you need to keep going.

Here are some tips for getting the most out of your time in nature:

  1. Take a walk: Walking is a simple but effective way to get moving and clear your mind. Whether you’re walking through a park or just around the block, getting outside and getting your blood pumping can help you feel more energized and focused.

  2. Sit in silence: I get this one can be hard to do especially if you have a young family that needs you. But sometimes the best thing you can do is simply be still. Find a quiet spot in nature, sit down, and allow yourself to be present in the moment. Close your eyes, breathe deeply, and let your worries melt away.

  3. Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present in the moment, without judgment. When you’re outside, try to focus on your senses. What do you see, hear, smell, and feel? By tuning in to your surroundings, you can quiet your mind and find a sense of calm.

  4. Take up a new outdoor activity: Whether it’s hiking, biking, or kayaking, trying a new outdoor activity can be a great way to challenge yourself and experience the beauty of nature. Plus, physical activity is a proven mood-booster, so you’ll feel even better after you’re done.

  5. Make it a habit: The more you get outside, the more benefits you’ll see. Try to make spending time in nature a regular part of your routine, whether it’s a daily walk around the block or a weekly hike with friends.

When life feels overwhelming, getting outside can be the perfect antidote. Whether you take a walk, sit in silence, practice mindfulness, try a new outdoor activity, or simply make spending time in nature a habit, you’ll find that being outside can help you feel more centered, focused, and at peace. So next time you’re feeling stressed or anxious, take a deep breath and step outside. Your mind and body will thank you.

Thanks for reading and if you haven’t already jump over and follow us on Facebook or on Instagram or leave a comment on our blog. Until next time xx Tennille – Barker Family Adventure 

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The Surprising Benefits of Homeschooling You Need to Know!

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Homeschooling is a growing trend in education that has gained momentum in recent years. More and more families are opting to educate their children at home instead of sending them to traditional schools. While homeschooling was once considered an alternative approach to education, it is now becoming a mainstream option for families. In this post, we will explore some of the surprising benefits of homeschooling that you need to know. But first, a little on our homeschooling journey.

We first started our homeschooling journey back in 2017. We were moving to Tasmania and knew our kids would need a lot of time off school so chose to use Brisbane School of Distance Education (BSDE). I was schooled using BSDE in 2001 because we lived very remotely when I was growing up. Our kids were in year 1 and year 8. BSDE made it very easy as all the work comes set out in packs and you join whichever online classes your child needs at whatever the set time is via a computer with headset and microphone so there is still interaction with kids and teachers but it’s just over the computer. And of course, there are also meet up groups like swimming, etc run by the school. The kids enjoyed the schooling but distance ed is a little restrictive in the way that you need to be available to join the online classes just like you would attend a school class. Once we completed our move to Tasmania both kids were then enrolled in local schools.

So for a few years that worked out well until it didn’t. In year 3 Mr C wasn’t enjoying mainstream schooling and was struggling a lot. So for terms 3 and 4, we homeschooled using a curriculum by My Homeschool. This was based on the Charlotte Mason method. 

After finishing grade 3 Mr C decided to go to school again. He remained in mainstream schooling until the beginning of 2022. In the beginning, we started out using Simply Homeschool which is a paid subscription with lots of core programs to use with each one being a different topic that covers many requirements to cover the curriculum. The ladies at Simply Homeschool are super amazing and helpful and can even assist in helping with registration requirements for different states. They also have an amazing, supportive homeschool group on Facebook. For 2023 we have moved on to using Twinkl they have tonnes of free resources on so many topics, covering all aspects of the learning curriculum for all ages, as well as a subscription for even more access. Now onto 5 amazing benefits that you might not have thought of about homeschooling.

Benefit #1: Homeschooling Offers Flexibility

One of the biggest advantages of homeschooling is the flexibility it offers. Homeschooling allows families to create a customized education plan that fits their child’s individual needs. This means that parents can tailor their child’s education to their strengths, weaknesses, and interests. Homeschooled students have the freedom to explore their passions and pursue their own interests at their own pace. This flexibility can lead to a more personalized and engaging learning experience.

Another benefit of learning from home is the ability to create a schedule that works best for the whole family. Homeschooling allows parents to schedule learning activities around other commitments, such as appointments, work, or travel. They also have the option to learn at any time of day, whether that’s early in the morning or late at night. This flexibility can be especially beneficial for students who have health issues or other special requirements.

Benefit #2: Homeschooling Encourages Independent Thinking

Homeschooling encourages independent thinking and self-motivation. Students who are taught at home are given the freedom to explore their own interests and pursue their own goals. This fosters a sense of independence that can be lacking in a traditional classroom setting.

In addition, homeschooling allows students to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. They are given the opportunity to work through complex problems and come up with their own solutions. This helps them develop a deeper understanding of the material and the ability to apply that knowledge in real-world situations. It also provides students with the opportunity to further explore a topic.

Benefit #3: Homeschooling Provides a Safer Learning Environment

Another benefit of homeschooling is the ability to provide a safer learning environment. Reducing their exposure to the same risks as students in traditional schools such as bullying, peer pressure, or other negative influences that can affect their academic and personal development. Although some would argue that this type of environment is needed for hardening up kids to the real world. I beg to differ and am confident the rate of mental health decline in school-aged children convinces me also.

Homeschooling provides a safer learning environment for students with special needs. Children who require special accommodations or have health issues are not exposed to the same risks as they would be in a traditional classroom setting.

Benefit #4: Homeschooling Helps Build Stronger Family Bonds

Homeschooling can help build stronger family bonds. When parents are involved in their child’s education, it strengthens their relationship and fosters a sense of closeness. Homeschooled kids also have more opportunities to interact with siblings and other family members, which can help build strong relationships that last a lifetime. Teaching your own child not only allows you to bond but it allows you to fill in the missing gaps in specific learning areas and gives the parents an opportunity to also learn something new along the way as more often than not it has been a hot minute since we have been at school.

It allows families to spend more time together. Homeschooled students have more free time to spend with their family, whether that’s going on field trips or simply spending time at home. This can create a more relaxed and pleasant learning environment, which can make the learning experience more enjoyable for everyone involved. It’s amazing what learning opportunities are available when you start homeschooling.

Benefit #5: Homeschooling Helps Develop Character and Values

Homeschooling helps develop character and values in students. Specifically when students are given the opportunity to learn about different cultures, religions, and lifestyles. This helps kids develop a more open-minded and accepting worldview. In addition, homeschooling allows parents to teach their children about their own values and beliefs.

So there you have five benefits to homeschooling that you might not have known or thought of. Thanks for reading along. If you haven’t already jump over and follow us on facebook or on instagram or leave a comment on our blog. Until next time xx Tennille – Barker Family Adventure 

Photo by Element5 Digital on Unsplash

Barker Family Adventures

It’s 2023!! Happy New Year

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Welcome and how crazy that it’s 2023!! Happy New Year to you all. I hope you all had a fabulous Christmas and New Years. We had a lovely small gathering at home this year and are planning to do another Christmas in February to celebrate with our daughter who couldn’t be here with us for our get together. It’s crazy how quickly the years tick over.

It’s been one whole year since we did our first blog post for Barker Family Adventures. You can click HERE if you would like to read it. 2022 was mostly a good year with a few stressful moments. Jason’s dad being very ill for basically the first half of the year, our daughter moving to a different state, the birth of our third child and homeschooling Master C on top of that. But all in all we had alot of fun and alot more family time making memories.

A few things to update in our lives in this blog so I hope you enjoy reading.

Baby #3 Update

We delivered our healthy baby boy back in October 2022. It was a very quick labour and we have been taking it easy and loving being a family of five. I will do a seperate post for his birth. Just have to find a spare minute to sit down.

SUMMER: A Garden Update

Back in our last blog I shared our garden preparation which you can read about HERE. We ended up hiring a small rotary hoe for the day to make it easier on Jason and quicker. We dug in a mix of seaweed and manure along with a sprinkle of rapid raiser and our beds were soon ready to plant out. We have already started to harvest potato’s from our first patch which has saved us money already. Looking forward to the rest of our crops flourishing.

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Homeschooling

We completed our first full year of homeschooling Master C last year which went well. We spent a few weeks unlearning some habits that are required in mainstream schooling. It is amazing how much work Master C gets done in 2 hours at home verse being in a class of 25 odd other kids. And the biggest reward is watching first hand him improving and learning new things. That moment when a new topic clicks and you can see the light bulb moment for him is so rewarding. 

We started out with Simply Homeschool which have a large amount of core subjects on different topics covering a whole range of curriculum which was brilliant but we have since pivoted to using Twinkl. Although Master C liked the crafty hands on side to Simply Homeschool it did get a little boring for him and so far he has enjoyed the lessons we have used from Twinkl. Keep your eye out for our blog on what our plan is for this year.

What’s New And 2023 Goals

This year I (Tennille) hope to read more. I’m a slow reader and books usually take me a long time to read. But like alot of people this year have said I want to do something different, learn more and keep improving myself to be the best version of me. So I’d like to incorporate some reviews on the books I have read. If anyone has any suggestions then I’m happy to hear them. I’ll try out any genre just as long as it’s interesting enough to keep me engaged.

We aim to grow our blog and following so if you are reading here and haven’t yet liked or followed our FACEBOOK or INSTAGRAM pages we would love it if you did, and share these pages with your friends. That would be amazing. We would like to get both socials to 500 followers each this year and really appreciate the help building that. 

For our family we plan to get out of the house a bit more, especially while we have the warmer sunny weather here, to do more exploring of Tasmania and share our fun with others. Particularly those that aren’t from Tassie to showcase our state, as well as those interested in homeschooling that might be unsure how it can work in a family.

There is alot of homeschool planning going on here at the moment. Master C has lots of interests that he would like to explore this year so we are getting organised for that and working out the best fit while covering the requirements. But it’s shaping up to be a fun year for him. 

Thanks for reading along. We hope you have a fabulous 2023 and if you haven’t already jump over and follow us on facebook or on instagram or leave a comment on our blog. Until next time xx Tennille – Barker Family Adventure 

Feature Image Photo by Moritz Knöringer on Unsplash