Blog #10: Cultivating a Holistic Approach to Education

A note from the parents

At the core of our family's homeschooling philosophy was a focus on developing well-rounded, principled individuals. This encompassed several key priorities:

1. Instilling Godly Character:

Nurturing strong moral values and a deep spiritual foundation was our foremost concern. We believed that a sound moral compass would guide our children's choices and actions throughout their lives.

2. Cultivating Discipline and a Strong Work Ethic:

Alongside our emphasis on character, we placed a premium on instilling discipline and a relentless work ethic in all that our children undertook - from their academic studies to their extracurricular pursuits.

3. Prioritizing Physical Fitness and Diverse Interests:

Recognizing the importance of a healthy body and mind, we ensured that our children engaged in a variety of physical activities and extracurricular experiences. This multi-faceted approach helped them develop into well-rounded individuals.

4. Stimulating Both Sides of the Brain:

Acknowledging the distinct cognitive functions associated with the left and right hemispheres of the brain, we made a concerted effort to nurture both logical/analytical thinking and creative expression.

The left side of the brain, responsible for logic and reasoning, was challenged through rigorous academic studies across disciplines. Conversely, the right side of the brain, linked to creativity and intuitive thinking, was fostered through extensive involvement in the arts - from painting and sketching to music composition and performance.

The remarkable level of artistic mastery our children have attained, from captivating portraits and oil paintings to self-produced musical albums, is a testament to the success of this holistic approach.

By cultivating this harmonious balance between analytical and creative capacities, we have aimed to produce not merely academically gifted individuals, but well-rounded, purposeful, and inspired human beings, equipped to navigate the complexities of life with wisdom, compassion, and innovation.

Lastly, we made learning fun. Whether it was reading aloud, playing educational games, or conducting science experiments, these shared experiences strengthened our bonds and made the process more enjoyable. Incorporating our children's interests and ideas into the routine motivated them to learn. For example, our youngest loved having one of her dogs under her desk during class, which made lessons more fun and comfortable for her. The older two had brought home little chicks from the Sharjah bird market, which they lovingly hand-raised. This hobby grew to become a flock of over 25 chickens and 20 ducks. They would help the eggs hatch and even started a small business selling their farm's produce to our friends at premium prices. These hobbies and activities turned them into responsible young people. 

Also, celebrating small victories and milestones together boosted their confidence and sense of accomplishment. By making the learning process a collaborative and positive experience, we were able to nurture our children's natural curiosity and love of learning.

The children's typical day would always include an hour of Bible reading and prayer time. During the cooler months, the family would go out horse riding twice a week early in the morning . On two other days, the children would have a aerobics and training lessons at home. Additionally, every day the children also had to run and strength train as part of their routine. As they grew older aerobics was replaced with Muay Thai.

They would then be ready for their classes by 9am. Each of them were given a daily printed schedule of what they need to do and finish. Then during the day each child was given individual attention and assistance by my wife.  The normal day ended at around 4pm. But they were taught to take on heavier schedules at times and I remember several days the senior classes and coursework would stretch until 7pm and 8pm.

The children's weekly schedule included an art session from 9am to 2pm once a week. Twice a week, they had voice training in the afternoons, with 30 minutes of individual lessons followed by a 30-minute joint session.

In the evenings, the children were responsible for grooming their five dogs, exercising them and caring for their chicken and duck farm. 

As the children grew older, they began baking impressive baked goods, which eventually became a commercial enterprise with corporate clients .

Weekends became increasingly hectic as the children approached the end of high school, with a strong emphasis on preparing for the SAT exam.

The other things that they were involved with at different stages was ballet albeit briefly, cycling and swimming .