Our Morning Routine

Over the past few weeks, I've found a way to make better use of our breakfast time, which often takes far longer than I'd like it to, with four people each eating different foods and one baby refusing to eat anything, but creating a mess all the same. 

As we all gather in the kitchen, we update the calendar, noting the day and month. We sing the "Days of the Week" song and the "Months of the Year" song. We still have to sing them pretty slowly for Jack to keep up, but he's getting the hang of it. We usually have to sing them at least twice because Alexander knows them well and wants to sing quickly.

For Christmas we were given some weather equipment like a big outdoor thermometer, a rain gauge, and a preschool style weather bulletin board. (Thanks, AE!) So, we usually also talk about what the weather is like that day and what season it is. I finally got the bulletin board stuff hung up, so now we'll be able to update that each day as well. 

Next, I tell the boys their personal stories. I adapted this idea from one that I read in Family Fun magazine. I tell each boy a story that starts like this: "Once upon a time there was a little boy named (full name). He was born on (full birth date). He lived at (full address)." From there, I make up a short, silly story, which is different every day. I do one for each boy and they love it and look forward to hearing what their story will be each day. They don't even seem to notice that they're learning their personal information. Of course this activity, like the one above, is most suited to Jack and Kai, but Alexander loves it, too. It's a bit mind-boggling how much they love this simple, fun activity.

That's my quickie update for today! I have more things I'd like to share bopping around my head, but as usual, finding the time and energy to blog is not the easiest thing ever! Til next time...