Finding equilibrium between pursuing a career in music freelance teaching and fulfilling family obligations can feel like walking a tightrope. Both aspects of life demand time, attention, and dedication. However, with the right strategies in place, it's possible to strike a harmonious balance and thrive in both domains. In this post, we'll explore some effective strategies for managing your time effectively between music freelance teaching and family responsibilities.
- Establish Clear Boundaries: One of the first steps in managing your time effectively is to establish clear boundaries between your work and family life. Set designated work hours for your music teaching and office hours, and communicate these hours to your students and family members. Similarly, carve out dedicated family time where work-related distractions are minimized. By delineating boundaries, you create space for both professional and personal commitments without letting them overlap excessively.
- Prioritize Tasks: Prioritization is key when balancing multiple responsibilities. Identify the most important tasks for both your music freelance teaching and family responsibilities, and tackle them accordingly. Time block to get those one-time or weekly tasks done. Consider using productivity techniques such as Eisenhower's Urgent/Important Principle to manage your time efficiently. By focusing on high-priority tasks first, you can make significant progress in both areas of your life without feeling overwhelmed.
- Embrace Flexibility: Flexibility is essential when navigating the unpredictable nature of freelance work and family life. Recognize that plans may need to be adjusted at times, and be willing to adapt accordingly. Utilize tools such as scheduling apps or digital calendars to keep track of appointments, deadlines, and family events. Additionally, communicate openly with both your students and family members about any changes or adjustments to your schedule. By embracing flexibility, you can navigate unforeseen challenges with greater ease and minimize stress.
- Delegate and Outsource: Don't hesitate to delegate tasks or outsource certain responsibilities to others when necessary. Whether it's hiring a virtual assistant to handle administrative tasks related to your teaching business or enlisting family members to help with household chores, delegating can free up valuable time and mental energy. Remember that you don't have to do everything yourself, and seeking support from others can lighten your workload and reduce feelings of overwhelm.
- Practice Self-Care: Amidst the hustle and bustle of balancing work and family life, don't forget to prioritize self-care. Carve out time for activities that recharge you mentally, physically, and emotionally. Whether it's taking a walk, practicing mindfulness, or indulging in a hobby, self-care is essential for maintaining balance and preventing burnout. Remember that by taking care of yourself, you'll be better equipped to fulfill your commitments to both your music freelance teaching and your family.
Balancing music freelance teaching with family responsibilities requires careful planning, flexibility, and self-discipline. By establishing clear boundaries, prioritizing tasks, embracing flexibility, delegating when necessary, and prioritizing self-care, you can effectively manage your time and thrive in both areas of your life. Remember that achieving balance is an ongoing process, and it's okay to seek support from others when needed. With dedication and the right strategies in place, you can create a fulfilling and harmonious life that integrates your passion for music with your commitment to family.
In the realm of classical homeschooling, music holds a special place. From fostering creativity to enhancing cognitive development, the incorporation of music into your daily life and homeschool can enrich your and your child(ren)'s experience in countless ways. If you're looking for fresh and inventive ideas to infuse music into your classical homeschooling routine, here's a few ideas that work for my family and the families I guide!
10 creative ways to integrate music into your homeschooling journey:
1. Composer Study Sessions: Delve into the lives and works of classical composers through biographies and musical contributions. Choose engaging narratives that bring composers to life and encourage your children to narrate back their life story and what they've learned in their own words.
2. Musical Storytime: Select classic children's books with musical themes or adaptations of famous musical compositions or folk songs. Encourage your children to narrate their understanding of the stories and discuss the emotions evoked by the music and how it helps tell the story.
3. DIY Instrument Making: Engage in hands-on exploration by crafting simple musical instruments. Encourage your children describe the sounds produced by their homemade instruments and the principles of sound they've discovered. You could even connect it to a book you're reading by acting out part of the story using vocal and instrument sounds with what you created!
4. Music and Movement: Integrate music into physical education by exploring the connection between music and movement. Encourage your children to express themselves and the various elements of what they are listening to through movement while listening to a wide variety of styles and genres of music. This DVD gives some great examples!
5. Historical Music Exploration: Explore different historical periods through books that show the cultural and musical developments of each era and how they are connected. Encourage narration as your children retell the stories of how historical events influenced musical styles and composers. Create a Book of Centuries (or timeline journal) and encourage your children to add the composers and musical time periods and eras to it as they learn.
6. Virtual & In-Person Concert Field Trips: Take virtual field trips (or live ones!) to concerts, operas, or musical performances around the world -- beforehand, provide context and background information. Encourage your children to narrate their impressions of the performances and discuss the elements that stood out to them afterwards.
7. Music Journaling: Encourage your children to keep a music journal where they can write or draw their impressions of various pieces of music. Ask them to describe how the music makes them feel or what imagery it invokes in their minds.
8. Collaborative Music Projects: Foster teamwork and creativity by organizing collaborative music projects. Encourage your children to compose their own songs, create musical arrangements, or even form a family band. Emphasize the importance of communication and the value of working together and compromise (if needed) in the creative process.
9. Music in Language Arts: Integrate music into language arts studies by exploring the intersection of music and literature. Analyze song lyrics as poetry, explore the use of symbolism in music, or even try your hand at writing song lyrics inspired by literary works.
10. Music Appreciation Picnics: Take your lesson outdoors with music appreciation picnics. Pack a basket of snacks, a blanket, and your favorite music selections, classical selections are fun to do this way. Enjoy listening to music (and add in the movement!) while discussing your favorite compositions and composers.
Do you have any creative ways to integrate music into your homeschooling or daily routines? Share your ideas in the comments below!
Intrigued by some of the ideas above, but don't know where to begin? Simple systems of how to implement these and much more will be included in the Classical Collective Membership! Sign up here to learn more and for pre-launch sale details.
Intrigued by some of the ideas above, but don't know where to begin? Simple systems of how to implement these and much more will be included in the Classical Collective Membership! Sign up here to learn more and for pre-launch sale details.
As you set foot on the path of homeschooling, you're likely to encounter a multitude of educational philosophies. One such philosophy that might pique your interest is classical education. But what exactly does it entail, and how can it enrich your homeschooling journey?
Classical education is a time-tested approach rooted in the ancient Greco-Roman tradition. At its core, it emphasizes the pursuit of truth, goodness, and beauty through a structured "good books" based curriculum based on the trivium: grammar, logic, and rhetoric.
In the grammar stage, typically spanning the early years, children lay the groundwork of knowledge through memorization, repetition, and the study of language, literature, history, and science. This stage capitalizes on children's natural curiosity and receptivity to new information.
As children progress into the logic stage, usually during the middle school years, they learn to think critically, analyze information, and make connections between different subjects. This phase fosters the development of sound reasoning skills and encourages students to ask probing questions.
Finally, in the rhetoric stage, which encompasses mostly the high school years, students refine their communication skills, both written and verbal. They learn to express themselves eloquently and persuasively, engaging in meaningful dialogue and debate by tying many different learned topics and ideas together.
Implementing classical education in your homeschooling journey can seem daunting, but there are numerous resources and community available to guide you. "Consider This: Charlotte Mason and the Classical Tradition" by Karen Glass offers insights into Mason's educational philosophy, which aligns closely with classical principles.
Dorothy Sayers' essay "The Lost Tools of Learning" outlines the trivium and advocates for a return to classical teaching methods. Understanding the stages of learning can help you tailor your approach to each stage, creating a dynamic and engaging learning environment.
Stephen R. Turley's "Awakening Wonder: A Classical Guide to Truth, Goodness, and Beauty" provides practical tips for incorporating classical principles into your homeschooling curriculum. Turley emphasizes the importance of nurturing a love for truth, goodness, and beauty in education.
Susan Schaeffer Macaulay's "For the Children’s Sake" underscores the importance of a holistic, child-centered approach to education. By nurturing the whole child—mind, body, and soul—we can create an environment where learning flourishes. And "The Great Tradition: Classic Readings on What It Means to Be an Educated Human Being," edited by Richard Gamble, offers timeless texts that illuminate the essence of classical education.
As you embark on your homeschooling journey, remember that you're not alone. There's a vibrant community of homeschooling families ready to offer support and guidance to one another. Embrace the principles of classical education, and watch as your children grow into thoughtful, engaged individuals equipped to navigate the complexities of the modern world.
Happy homeschooling!
When teaching our children (especially in classical education or charlotte mason methods), we often emphasize the importance of exposing them to rich literature from an early age. We recognize the profound impact that books can have on their development, nurturing their imagination, and expanding their worldview. However, just as literature holds a special place in a child's intellectual diet, so too does music play a crucial role in shaping their hearts and minds.
In the words of Charlotte Mason (found in this book), "to introduce children to literature is to install them in a very rich and glorious kingdom." Similarly, introducing children to rich and wholesome songs can open the doors to a world of beauty, inspiration, and cultural richness. Just as we carefully select books that reflect our values and ideals, what's often called living books, we should be mindful of the songs we choose to share with our children.
Children's interaction with music should begin from the earliest moments of their lives. Just as we surround them with books, we can surround them with music that is uplifting, meaningful, has a beautiful melody and accompaniment or a cappella, and enriching. From lullabies sung in the cradle to nursery rhymes and folk songs, every musical encounter shapes a child's understanding of the world around them.
The benefits of exposing children to rich and wholesome songs are manifold. Firstly, music has the power to evoke emotions and stir the soul in ways that words alone cannot. Through songs, children learn about love, joy, sadness, and resilience. They develop empathy and compassion as they empathize with the characters and stories woven into the fabric of each melody.
Singing rich and wholesome songs also cultivates a sense of community and belonging. Whether singing with family members, friends, or classmates, children experience the joy of shared expression and collective harmony. In a world often fragmented by differences and the loneliness of technology, music has the unique ability to unite us across cultural, linguistic, and social divides.
Exposure to a diverse repertoire of songs introduces children to different musical styles, traditions, and cultures. Just as we encourage them to explore the vast expanse of literature, we should encourage them to explore the rich tapestry of musical heritage from around the world. From classical masterpieces to traditional folk tunes, from spirituals to contemporary compositions, each song offers a unique window into the human experience.
In a society where children are bombarded with commercialized and often superficial music geared specifically to children, it is more important than ever to curate a musical environment that nourishes their hearts and minds. As parents and parent-teachers, we have a responsibility to provide children with the tools they need to navigate the world with wisdom, integrity, and compassion. By singing rich and wholesome songs, we can instill in them a love of beauty, a reverence for truth, and a deep appreciation for the realities of humanity.
Just as Charlotte Mason advocated for the importance of introducing children to literature from a young age, so too should we prioritize the introduction of rich and wholesome music into their lives. Music has the power to inspire, uplift, and transform, and by singing together, we can create a more harmonious and compassionate world and thoughtful human beings for generations to come.
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As a voice teacher, I frequently encounter students or the general public who believe they can't sing for various reasons. It's a common misconception that some people are simply born with the ability to sing while others are not. In reality, singing is a skill that can be learned and developed with the right guidance and practice. Let's explore three common reasons people maybe "can't sing" and some practical solutions to help overcome them!
- The song is too low: One of the most frequent reasons I hear people struggle to sing a song is because the recording they are singing with (or they themselves) start singing the song too low. This leads to them not being able to sing the notes accurately because their voice cannot hit those low notes -- this is especially true for children whose voices have not changed yet. I see this allll the time in church kids choirs where the director has picked music that is for adults without taking into account the melody's range for the children's singing needs.Solution: If you find yourself struggling with a song that feels too low, consider transposing it to a higher key that better suits your voice (aka start singing higher! I gave an audio example here). Experiment with different keys until you find one that allows you to sing comfortably without strain. Additionally you can work with a voice teacher (like me!) to increase your range and work on other techniques that will help you sing lower notes if that's a desired skill.
- You aren't using enough air/breath: Breath support is the foundation of good singing technique, yet many beginners underestimate its importance. Insufficient breath support can lead to weak, airy vocals, pitch instability, and an inability to sustain notes effectively. Without proper breath control, even the most talented singers can struggle to reach their full potential.Solution: Focus on developing strong breath support by practicing diaphragmatic breathing exercises regularly. Imagine filling your lower lungs with air as you inhale deeply like through a straw, allowing your lungs to descend and expand. Practice exhaling slowly and steadily (like on an "s" sound), maintaining control over your airflow throughout each phrase. Incorporate breath support exercises into your daily vocal warm-up routine to strengthen your diaphragm and improve your vocal stamina.
- You need to use your ears just as much as your voice: Singing isn't just about producing sound; it's also about listening and adjusting in real-time to stay on pitch and maintain vocal consistency, especially if you're singing with a recording or track or other singers. Many aspiring singers neglect the importance of active listening and rely solely on muscle memory or visual cues, leading to inaccuracies and inconsistencies in their performances.Solution: Train your ear by practicing pitch-matching exercises and listening to a variety of music genres attentively. Pay close attention to pitch, tone, and phrasing, and strive to replicate what you hear accurately. Sing along with recordings of professional singers, focusing on matching their pitch and expression. Over time, your ear will become more attuned to nuances in pitch and tone, allowing you to sing with greater accuracy and confidence.
The belief that "I can't sing" is often rooted in misconceptions and technical challenges that can be addressed with the right approach and guidance (and a kind teacher!). By transposing songs to suit your voice, developing strong breath support, and training your ear through active listening, you can unlock your true potential as a singer and enjoy the transformative power of music. So, don't let self-doubt hold you back — embrace the journey of vocal exploration and discover the joy of expressing yourself through song! It starts with belief and skill will follow.
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Embarking on a homeschooling journey opens the door to exploring various educational philosophies -- there's so many options! How do I decide? Ultimately, you have to make the decision that's best for your family. I chose to look at first and answer the question, "What is a child and how does he/she learn?" to make my initial decisions regarding homeschooling. Classical education stands out as a time-tested approach rooted in ancient Greco-Roman tradition. How does a classical education philosophy answer this question? And what exactly does it entail, and how can it elevate your homeschooling experience?
Classical education offers a profound answer to the question of what a child is and how they learn. It recognizes that children are not empty vessels to be filled with information but rather curious and imaginative beings made in the image of God eager to explore the world around them. By embracing the trivium—grammar, logic, and rhetoric—classical education provides a structured framework that nurtures children's natural inclination towards truth, goodness, and beauty.
In the grammar stage, children are introduced to the wonders of language, literature, history, arts, and science through the use of living books and good, true, and beautiful sources. These captivating narratives not only impart knowledge but also ignite children's imaginations and instill in them a love for learning. By immersing children in stories and facts that resonate with their innate curiosity, classical education lays a solid foundation upon which further learning can be built.
As children progress into the logic stage, they are encouraged to think critically, analyze information, and make connections between different realities in their world. This phase challenges them to question assumptions, seek out underlying patterns, and engage with complex ideas. Through the exploration of more advanced living books, children develop the intellectual tools necessary to navigate the complexities of the world around them with discernment and clarity.
In the rhetoric stage, students refine their communication skills—both written and verbal—and learn to articulate thoughts persuasively and engage in meaningful dialogue and debate. This phase not only focuses on the art of persuasion but also cultivates a deep appreciation for beauty and goodness in all its forms. By encouraging students to express themselves eloquently and engage thoughtfully with diverse perspectives, classical education prepares them to become effective communicators and compassionate leaders in an increasingly interconnected and complex world.
By incorporating classical education into your homeschooling journey, you can not only provide your children with a holistic and enriching educational experience that fosters intellectual curiosity, moral integrity, and a lifelong love for learning, but also do this within relationship alongside your children (one of the most important parts). You can capitalize on your strengths while also learning with your children! With the guidance of abundant resources and support from fellow homeschooling mamas (some who are seasoned with wisdom and others who are freshly energetic about starting), you can create a dynamic and engaging learning environment where your children can flourish into thoughtful, engaged individuals equipped to navigate life's challenges with wisdom and grace.
In classical homeschooling, we're constantly seeking methods to cultivate wisdom and nurture a love for learning in our children. One timeless tool that resonates deeply with this endeavor is the commonplace book—a cherished companion for scholars, thinkers, and creatives throughout history. But what exactly is a commonplace book, and why is it invaluable in our homeschooling journey?
At its essence, a commonplace book serves as a personal sanctuary of knowledge, wisdom, and inspiration. It becomes a beautiful little space where we gather and collect passages, quotes, and insights from various sources that carry significance to us — books, articles, lectures, and even conversations and personal thoughts that relate to those quotes, books, and articles. Unlike a traditional journal, which may primarily focus on personal reflections, a commonplace book is akin to a curated treasury of ideas that speak to our souls and kindle our intellectual curiosity.
So why do I, as a classical homeschooling mom, find the commonplace book indispensable? Here are several compelling reasons:
- Cultivating Intellectual Curiosity: A commonplace book inspires children to actively engage with the material they encounter versus being a passive learner. By transcribing passages and quotes that captivate their interest, they delve deeper into subjects, fostering a profound understanding and sparking a thirst for further exploration while also working on handwriting (if you so desire).
- Enhancing Learning and Retention: Studies have shown that the act of writing by hand enhances memory and comprehension. As our children summarize, paraphrase, and synthesize information in their commonplace books, they reinforce their learning and internalize key insights more effectively, seeing connections between different authors, ideas, and concepts.
- Fostering Creativity and Inspiration: Commonplace books serve as a wellspring of inspiration for young writers, artists, and thinkers. By capturing snippets of prose, poetry, and ideas that resonate with them, our children cultivate a reservoir of creativity to draw upon in their own creative pursuits.
- Promoting Reflection and Growth: Regularly revisiting their commonplace books allows our children to reflect on past experiences, insights, and lessons learned. It provides a space for self-discovery and personal growth as they glean new perspectives and wisdom from their collected entries.
- Building a Personal Legacy: Over time, our children's commonplace books become a reflection of their intellectual journey and worldview as they grow and learn. They can serve as a legacy for future generations, offering glimpses into their thoughts, interests, and values.
So how can we guide our children in starting their own commonplace books? The process is simple:
- Choosing a Format: Whether it's a physical notebook, a digital document, or an online platform, our children can select a format that resonates with their preferences and learning styles. Here are a few I created, but any notebook or artpad will do: Foliage version, floral version, and music version.
- Gathering Materials: Encourage them to collect pens (I love these), pencils, highlighters, and other tools (even stickers!) to personalize their commonplace books and make the process enjoyable -- encourage that creativity!
- Capturing Ideas: As they read, listen, or engage with new material, prompt them to draw or jot down passages, quotes, and insights that speak to them. Emphasize the importance of including the source (title/author and page number) and any relevant context to facilitate future reference should they want to reference it again later.
- Organizing and Reflecting: Guide them in periodically reviewing and organizing their entries, perhaps categorizing them by theme, subject, or relevance if the type of journal or notebook you chose allows for that. Encourage them to reflect on the connections and patterns that emerge, fostering a deeper understanding of their learning and the world around them.
- Sharing and Connecting: Consider facilitating discussions around excerpts from their commonplace books or encouraging them to share their insights with like-minded peers. Commonplace books provide a rich source of conversation and connection, fostering a sense of community and intellectual exploration.
A commonplace book is not merely a collection of words—it's a treasure trove of wisdom, insight, and inspiration that is as unique as the person who created it. By embracing the practice of maintaining a commonplace book, our children embark on a journey of intellectual discovery, personal growth, and lifelong learning.
Do you have a commonplace book? Do your children have commonplace books? If so, what have you noticed in yourself or in your children through this practice?
In the whirlwind of multitasking, deadlines, and juggling household responsibilities, work-from-home moms (like me!) often find themselves grappling with a phenomenon called "time blindness." This elusive concept can disrupt productivity, impact relationships, and contribute to stress levels. Understanding what time blindness is and how to manage it can make a significant difference in the lives of busy moms striving to balance work and family life.
What is Time Blindness? Time blindness refers to a cognitive condition where individuals struggle with estimating and managing time effectively. It's not a lack of understanding of time itself but rather an inability to accurately gauge the passage of time and allocate it efficiently. For work-from-home moms, this can manifest in various ways:
- Difficulty in Time Perception: Work-from-home moms may find themselves losing track of time while engrossed in tasks, leading to underestimation or overestimation of how long activities take (I struggle with thinking things will take less time than they do and not breaking projects down into small enough manageable tasks!).
- Procrastination and Pacing: Tasks may be delayed or rushed due to an inability to gauge how much time is available, resulting in last-minute scrambles to meet deadlines.
- Time Fragmentation: Interruptions from family responsibilities, household chores, and work obligations can fragment the day, making it challenging to maintain focus and productivity.
- Neglecting Self-Care: Time blindness can also impact self-care routines, as moms may struggle to find time for exercise, relaxation, or hobbies amidst their busy schedules.
Managing Time Blindness:
- Create a Structured Schedule: Establishing a daily routine with set work hours, dedicated breaks, and time blocks for household tasks can provide a sense of structure and help combat time blindness. Time blocking has really helped me here!
- Use Time Management Tools: Utilize calendars, planners, or digital apps to schedule tasks, set reminders, and track progress. Time-tracking apps can also help in gaining awareness of how time is spent throughout the day. I utilize my Google Calendar to keep me on track throughout the day and to keep my week organized as each week looks different with my variety of work tasks!
- Prioritize Tasks: Identify the most important tasks for each day and allocate time accordingly. Break larger projects into smaller, manageable tasks to prevent overwhelm and facilitate better time estimation.
- Set Boundaries: Communicate boundaries with family members, colleagues, and clients regarding work hours and availability. Establishing designated workspaces can also signal to others when you are engaged in work.
- Practice Mindfulness: Incorporate mindfulness techniques such as meditation or deep breathing exercises to improve focus, reduce stress, and enhance time awareness. I learned some great ways to keep my mind on track to reach my goals from Big Think!
- Delegate and Outsource: Recognize when tasks can be delegated to others or outsourced to free up time for more critical priorities.
- Regular Breaks: Incorporate regular breaks into the schedule to rest and recharge, preventing burnout and maintaining productivity levels.
- Know Yourself and Work With Your Strengths: If you know you are most productive on brain-heavy work before noon, schedule to do those more creative and challenging tasks then and save the more light or mundane tasks for later in the day when your brain is tired and less productive. Same goes for if you're a night owl -- do your less brain-heavy tasks earlier in the day and plan your work time in the evening for when your brain is most alert and productive. You will finish tasks so much more efficiently if you can schedule then when you are most productive.
Time blindness can present significant challenges for anyone, but especially work-from-home moms who often have less distraction-free time to work and more schedule moving pieces to juggle than your average person. With awareness and effective strategies, it can be managed successfully. By implementing structured routines, utilizing time management tools, and prioritizing tasks, moms can reclaim control over their time and achieve a better balance between work and family life. Remember, managing time blindness is a journey, and small, consistent efforts can lead to significant improvements in productivity, well-being, and overall satisfaction. Give yourself grace as you learn new skills and celebrate the victories!
When it comes to baking sourdough, I've always been on a quest for that great rise and just the right balance of tanginess, chewiness, and crustiness for my various recipes. Recently, I stumbled upon a game-changer that took my sourdough to the next level: whey from homemade yogurt.
Let's rewind a bit. Like many, I enjoy making my own yogurt at home. It's a simple process with delicious results. But after straining the yogurt to get that creamy texture, I found myself staring at the leftover whey, wondering if there was a better way to use it. That's when inspiration struck – why not try it in my sourdough starter?
So, I swapped out all or most of the water in my usual sourdough starter recipe for whey, and the results were nothing short of fantastic. Not only did it add a subtle tanginess to the bread, but it also seemed to kickstart the fermentation process, giving my starter an extra boost. Plus, it felt good knowing I was putting that leftover whey to good use as I often struggle to find more ways to use and not waste the whey.
The benefits of using whey in sourdough go beyond flavor and fermentation. Whey is packed with nutrients and probiotics, thanks to its origins in yogurt. It's like giving your sourdough a little health boost with every use in a recipe. And for someone like me who's always looking for ways to eat a little better, that's a win-win.
So if you're making yogurt at home and find yourself with leftover whey, don't toss it out! Give it a try in your sourdough starter and see what happens. You might just be pleased with the results – I was! The secret to great sourdough isn't about fancy techniques or exotic ingredients. It's about being open to trying new things and making the most of what you have on hand. And for me, that means repurposing the whey from my homemade yogurt and letting it elevate my sourdough game to new heights.
As a music teacher, my schedule is filled with various responsibilities, from lesson planning and teaching sessions to administrative tasks and personal commitments. In the midst of these demands, finding time for everything can be challenging. But by implementing a strategic approach like time blocking, you can take control of your schedule and maximize your productivity during those small windows of time. Let's explore the concept of time blocking and how music teachers can use it to manage their time more effectively.
What is Time Blocking? Time blocking is a productivity technique that involves dividing your day into distinct blocks of time, each dedicated to specific tasks or activities. Rather than bouncing between tasks haphazardly, time blocking encourages focused work by allocating dedicated time slots for different types of activities. By organizing your day in this way, you can minimize distractions, improve concentration, and accomplish more in less time.
How Music Teachers Can Benefit from Time Blocking
Music teachers can reap numerous benefits from implementing time blocking into their daily routine:
- Enhanced Focus: By allocating dedicated blocks of time for tasks like lesson planning, teaching, and administrative work, you can minimize distractions and maintain focus on the task at hand. Less distraction means more done in less time!
- Improved Productivity: Time blocking allows you to prioritize important tasks and allocate sufficient time to complete them effectively, resulting in increased productivity and efficiency. This feels good!
- Better Work-Life Balance: By scheduling specific blocks of time for work-related tasks and personal activities, you can create a more balanced schedule that allows for adequate time for rest, relaxation, and family commitments. I get so much done in dedicated 15-30 minute blocks of time!
- Reduced Stress: With a structured schedule in place, you can alleviate the stress and anxiety that often comes from feeling overwhelmed by a long list of tasks and responsibilities. The flexibility of this approach allows you not to work too long or too much as well.
How to Implement Time Blocking:
- Identify Your Priorities: Start by identifying the most important tasks and activities in your day-to-day life as a music teacher. This may include lesson planning, teaching sessions, administrative work, personal practice time, and leisure activities.
- Allocate Time Blocks: Divide your day into blocks of time, with each block dedicated to a specific task or activity. Be realistic about the time needed for each task, and don't forget to include buffer time for unexpected interruptions or transitions between activities. Make sure you dedicate the time blocks where you are most alert and awake and inspired for the more challenging, brain-heavy tasks!
- Stick to Your Schedule: Once you've established your time blocks, commit to sticking to your schedule as much as possible. Avoid the temptation to multitask or deviate from your plan, and instead focus on completing each task within its designated time frame. Set a timer and turn your phone to airplane mode for minimal distractions!
- Review and Adjust: Periodically review your time blocking schedule to assess its effectiveness and make any necessary adjustments. Be flexible and willing to adapt your schedule as needed to accommodate changes in workload or priorities or family obligations.
- Use Tools and Resources: Utilize tools such as digital calendars, scheduling apps, or traditional planners to help you organize and visualize your time blocking schedule. Experiment with different methods until you find the approach that works best for you. I use Google Calendar and the tasks feature to organize my time effectively.
Time blocking can be a valuable tool for music teachers seeking to manage their time more effectively and increase their productivity. By allocating dedicated blocks of time for different tasks and activities and projects, you can enhance focus, productivity, and work-life balance. Whether you're scheduling teaching sessions, lesson planning, or personal practice time, incorporating time blocking into your routine can help you make the most of your time and achieve your goals as a music educator without feeling burnt out.
In the world of culinary creations, few things offer the versatility, nutrition, and satisfaction of yogurt. Whether it's dolloped atop granola for breakfast, blended into smoothies for a midday pick-me-up, or used as a creamy base for sauces and dips, yogurt has firmly cemented its place in our culinary repertoire and personally in the Orem household, we love it! We only enjoy it made with raw milk as that is what we can digest well here, but you can use whichever type of milk you drink (whole milk will be best for thicker, greek yogurt). While store-bought options abound, there's something undeniably special about crafting your own creamy concoction at home, and it's healthier!
Making yogurt from scratch may seem daunting at first (I spent WAYYYY too long trying to figure out how to heat it or whether to heat it, etc) but fear not! With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you can whip up a batch of homemade yogurt that rivals the best commercial brands. Let's dive into the delightful world of DIY yogurt-making below, 2 different options:
Recipe #1
Ingredients:
- Milk (any variety - whole milk will yield the creamiest results, but you can also use skim or low-fat milk)
- Yogurt starter culture (either store-bought plain yogurt with live active cultures or a powdered starter, I linked my favorite and now I just save a little from each batch for the next batch! We LOVE the flavor from this one.)
- Optional flavorings (such as vanilla extract -- I make my own!, local honey, or fruit)
Equipment:
- Saucepan
- Thermometer
- Whisk or spoon
- Insulated container (such as a thermos or a yogurt maker)
- Clean kitchen towel or blanket
Instructions:
- Heat the Milk: Pour your desired amount of milk into a saucepan and heat it over medium heat until it reaches around 180°F (82°C). This helps to kill off any unwanted bacteria and denature the proteins in the milk, resulting in a smoother texture.
- Cool the Milk: Allow the milk to cool to around 110°F (43°C). This is the optimal temperature for the yogurt cultures to thrive. You can speed up the cooling process by placing the saucepan in a cold water bath.
- Add the Starter: Once the milk has cooled, whisk in your yogurt starter culture -- I like to use my frother for this part! If you're using store-bought yogurt as your starter, aim for about 2-3 tablespoons per quart of milk. If you're using a powdered starter, follow the package instructions for the appropriate amount.
- Incubate the Yogurt: Transfer the milk mixture into your insulated container. This could be a thermos, an instant pot, a yogurt maker, or simply a glass jar wrapped in a kitchen towel or blanket to retain warmth. Keep the container in a warm place (ideally around 100-110°F or 38-43°C) for 6-24 hours (We prefer longer!), allowing the yogurt cultures to ferment and thicken the mixture.
- Check for Doneness: After the incubation period, check the yogurt for desired thickness. If it's too runny, you can let it incubate for a bit longer and/or strain out some of the whey to increase thickness. If it's thickened to your liking, transfer it to the refrigerator to chill for a few hours before enjoying. I like to blend it after removing some of the whey for the smooth creamy texture.
- Optional Flavorings: Once chilled, you can customize your yogurt with flavorings of your choice. Stir in a splash of vanilla extract, a drizzle of honey, or swirl in some fruit preserves for a delightful burst of flavor.
Voila! You've just crafted your own batch of homemade yogurt, ready to be savored and enjoyed in countless delicious ways. Experiment with different milk varieties, starter cultures, and flavorings to create your own signature yogurt creations. With a little practice, you'll be a yogurt-making pro in no time. Come back and let me know your preferences, I'd love to hear! Cheers to homemade goodness!
Alternate Instant Pot Method (my preference):
Ingredients:
- Milk (any variety -- raw, store bought, whole preferred)
- Yogurt starter culture (store-bought plain yogurt with live active cultures or powdered starter)
Equipment:
- Instant Pot
- Thermometer
- Whisk or spoon
- Clean kitchen towel or blanket
Instructions:
- Prepare the Instant Pot: Start by ensuring your Instant Pot is clean and sanitized. Pour a cup of water into the Instant Pot insert and set it to "Pressure Cook" mode for 1 minute. Once done, carefully release the pressure and discard the water. This step helps sterilize the Instant Pot.
- Pour Milk Into the Instant Pot: Pour your desired amount of milk directly into the Instant Pot insert. I usually use a quart of milk for us for 5-7 days of yogurt (but we also don't eat it daily and only have 3 in our family so far).
- Add the Starter: Whisk in your yogurt starter culture. If you're using store-bought yogurt as your starter or saved yogurt from your last batch, aim for about 2-3 tablespoons per quart of milk. If you're using a powdered starter, follow the package instructions for the appropriate amount.
- Mix Well: Stir the milk and starter together until well combined. I like to use my frother for this!
- Incubate the Yogurt: Place the Instant Pot lid on, ensuring it's in the sealing position. Set the Instant Pot to the "Yogurt" setting. Depending on your Instant Pot model, you may need to adjust the settings to "Normal" or "Custom" for a longer fermentation time. Typically, yogurt is incubated for 8-24 hours (we prefer longer), but you can adjust the time according to your desired tartness and thickness.
- Check for Doneness: After the incubation period, check the yogurt for desired thickness. If it's too runny, you can let it incubate for a bit longer and/or strain out some of the whey with a cheesecloth if you'd like it thicker. If it's thickened to your liking, transfer it to the refrigerator to chill for a few hours before enjoying.
- Optional Flavorings: Once chilled, you can customize your yogurt with flavorings of your choice. Stir in a splash of vanilla extract, a drizzle of honey, or swirl in some fruit preserves for a delightful burst of flavor.
With this Instant Pot method, you can enjoy homemade yogurt with minimal effort and no need to heat the milk separately. It's a convenient and efficient way to create creamy yogurt right in your own kitchen. Experiment with different milk varieties, starter cultures, and flavorings to find your perfect yogurt combination. Happy yogurt-making!
In today's dynamic landscape, many educators seek alternatives beyond traditional teaching roles to diversify their income and regain control over their lives. For the music teacher juggling a full-time teaching job with parenthood and a desire for autonomy, balancing these responsibilities can be overwhelming. However, there are opportunities beyond the classroom worth exploring.
As a music teacher, passion for nurturing young minds through music is undeniable. While the demands of the public school system are draining, the desire to create a more fulfilling career and lifestyle is achievable -- I've done it!
Whether offering private lessons, workshops, or community collaborations, this venture allows you to set your own schedule and align your work with your values. Transitioning to entrepreneurship requires careful planning and realistic expectations (which we've talked about here and here). You can begin by testing the waters with freelance gigs while maintaining your teaching job if you want to. This gradual approach allows you to build a client base and generate income without risking stability. I preferred to have multiple income streams moving and lined up before I quit my J.O.B.
One misconception about diversifying income streams is that it requires more time and effort. However, by selecting income streams that complement your main source of income — music teaching — instead of random income streams that aren't aligned, you can create synergy and make them all fit together seamlessly. This really depends person-to-person on what they are doing and how it fits best, but I learned how to do this in a way that saves me SO much time from my own business mentor through her signature course.
While the journey may be challenging, the rewards of reclaiming your time and passion for music are worth it. Embrace the possibilities and dare to redefine success on your terms.
If you have multiple income streams going already, what are they?
