Jen - I just wanted to say good luck with your new approaches next week. DSalmost6 is a stubborn mule with me, if I attempt to "teach" him anything, which is why I cannot homeschool him (or part of it). So kudos to you for sticking with it!
And I just wanted to add (didn't read everyone's responses so sorry if it's duplicated) not to forget about "recess". While kids all need structure and structured physical activities, they also need their "free" time, both for mental creativity and physical activity. It can be structured in that it's the same time every day, but it doesn't have to be an official lesson or preplanned activity, etc.
So true! This week is going so much better! When I start seeing frustration or if ds is losing interest, we switch gears, go for a walk, go to the park, etc, and then we come home and start fresh. I think I underestimate how much physical activitiy ds needs, and free play is his favorite kind!
