How our homeschool changed and continues to evolve with a new baby!

S arrived in our lives at the most perfect moment for us. It was a chilly February day and at the time A and T were 6 and 3. We had discussed adoption over the years with our children and we were all thrilled this day had finally arrived!

Our lives had consisted of following their interests. What would it be like now with a brand new baby who we would all have to adjust to?

Well, she arrived and it felt like she had always been there. It was a feeling I can’t explain. Her curious and easy going demeanor didn’t impact our ability to visit a new playground or go to the zoo. She enjoyed these activities with us. At home she initially slept a lot which made finding time with the big kids easier.

As she has grown into a toddler our time together involved her and she’s happy to draw or play with play-doh while we read or work on a project. And as toddlers go, snacks are also a favorite past time.

Not much has changed in our homeschool life. Since we see all of life’s experiences as learning, having a baby and now toddler has been a focus in our learning for a while now. Learning the boundaries that she has, caring for a sibling, being more independent now that mom isn’t available as often, and how to share with a baby sister have all been lessons learned. I’ve witnessed their character development which has been an added bonus to this whole experience. So many character traits are developed with a new sibling such as kindness, gentleness, compassion, empathy, self-control, generosity and many more!

I’d say a new baby coming into our lives became a major part of our homeschool life in the best ways. We all have to navigate this season but that’s what makes it so bittersweet. Before we know it she won’t be a baby anymore.

Are you preparing for the arrival of a new baby? What was the adjustment like for you?