In California we are required to keep attendance records on the premises. I had tried and failed to keep attendance records again and again. I could not figure how to mark someone "present" who is always present nor how to mark someone absent on a day that we didn't "have school" when it is on these days that the children often learn the most while we clean, organize, bake, cook, garden, shop etc... Furthermore, how could I ever account for Ruthie helping me with lunch, Mary reading a story to Peter, Sarah instructing Joe in his Math or Seth helping a neighbor feed his cows?
When I poured out this whole mess to my dear husband he simply and without delay replied "Just have them keep their own records"! He suggested to get them each a small notebook in which they would be responsible to write down what they did each day for "school".
Of course, I ran right out and got them each tiny spiral bound memo-pads. What a great idea! They love to see how much they can "log" into their books. Eager to jot down lots of entries, they include anything that I say can count for "school". Once again, Jeff to the rescue. I am completely off the hook to keep attendance records. We use one memo-pad per child, per year.
I have yet to have them logging through the summer, but I should; that's when alot of real learning happens too...swimming, camping, gardening, building forts, ball games, bike rides, star-gazing, yard-work, barbecuing and so much more :) Maybe this summer. :)
