We just got back from our homeschooling program's annual holiday performance. We all got together for a potluck supper and then the choir and drama classes performed
The children were wonderful. Most of the members of the choir sang solos. They sang Christmas and Hanukkah songs and even danced the hora
The drama class performed 5 child-written, child-acted one act plays. Morganne played a stupendous Life-Sized Barbie in a comedy called "Robbery on 34th Street"
It was really wonderful to see the children speaking and singing in front of an audience. I'm all choked up. The adults were all very appreciative and supportive of the children. The children were brave. The older children were patient and supportive of the younger children
One of the things that has been wonderful to see has been how kind the older children (teenagers, even) are to the younger children. Morganne's play had a 15 year old, two 13 year olds, a 10 year old, a 9 year old an 8 year old and 6 year old Morganne. The older children were friendly to Morganne, encouraged her, respected her ideas and were patient and tolerant of the younger children's mistakes
Morganne is very pleased with her performance. I think her self-esteem has received a big boost. The drama teacher/director has complimented her many times on her good stage voice
I think it's really incredible what a group of children can accomplish in 6 weeks given just a bit of help and encouragement
Most of the children in our homeschooling program are unschoolers. Many of them have never been inside a conventional schoolroom. The program tries to provide opportunities that are unavailable in most homes. The drama classes were held in the community theatre and the children began working on their plays the first session of class (the class was 6 1.5 hour sessions and a dress rehearsal)
This is one of those times that I'm feeling very grateful to be able to participate in this process with my children
Copyright © 1994-7 by
Heather Madrone. All rights reserved.