I was wondering if you had any suggestions for further work for a 6 yo little girl who is in love with learning. We have a wonderful phonics program that we are working through — she is reading very well. On a daily basis there is Bible, Memory, Reading Aloud, Phonics, a “calendar” time and copywork. And we are also having an informal music study as well as listening to Latin songs, both of which she adores. I feel as if it is enough, but need the extra assurance — if that makes sense? She is an eager learner, could I (should I) add a few things more without being mere busy work? A.

Here are the responses from our Facebook group Homeschooling with Delayed Academics:

Andrea Schwartz — I would say you should make sure there is time in her day for her to explore the things she is interested in. At six, I’m not sure you need to add anything additional. Sounds like a full day to me. Maybe you could allow her to do some cooking or teach her how to do laundry!

Elaine — I think that sounds great! No wonder she enjoys learning. It looks like a wonderful day. Keep up the good work! And I agree that teaching life skills like laundry and cooking would be a fun addition. Lots of field trips too. Enjoy this time!

Bobbi — Sounds like a great day. The only thing I might do, very informally, is make sure to get lots of time exploring nature and doing simple experiments (making play dough, volcanoes, raising ladybugs, etc) while taking time to read aloud books on topics which capture her. If she’s still curious look at art and talk simply about it – what do you see, what do you think they are doing, are their clothes like ours, how do you think they feel? But like I said, gently and slowly as she is interested and probably not more than once or twice a week. Above all, make sure there is plenty of play and exploration time. You are doing plenty of more formal activities.

Jennifer Pepito — Hands-on fun and chores are the only things I would add. Growing some carrots or baking bread. Activities that will refine motor skills, teach reasoning and provide good fellowship with other family members.

Jennie E. Chancey — My mom had a special cabinet in our laundry room when we were growing up. It contained things like construction paper, safety scissors, glue, popsicle sticks, homemade play dough, cotton balls, markers, crayons, beads, yarn, empty paper towel rolls, cardboard from flat mailers, fabric scraps, and other crafty items. She called it the “Rainy Day Cabinet,” and it was basically for whenever we were bored or wanted something new to do. We weren’t allowed in the cabinet at any other time, so those supplies became like a hidden treasure stash. We whiled away many slow afternoons just making little figures or scenes, sculpting what we thought were highly realistic animals, etc. I have lots of great memories of that unstructured time to explore and create!