Alissa Bertrand

Ok, let's talk about homeschool. How is that going? And how did you mark the transition from summer to fall?

Homeschooling is tough! It’s definitely something you have to work at, conquer and tackle daily in order for it to work. What works for one family or one child, doesn’t necessarily work for the next family or child. Being organized and consistent is key! Without this, it’s a free for all. Homeschooling isn’t the solution for all either, but it truly has its rewards along with its ups and downs. The key is to learn and understand that your child or children are individuals and build a teaching method that works for both of you.

Making the transition from summer to fall wasn’t bad. I had the girls doing summer bridge activities throughout the summer, along with reading daily, just so that they didn’t get to off track from learning and using some brain power, rather than using some sort of electronics all day. We also follow our county’s school year calendar as well. 

What does a typical day look like?

A typical day for us is pretty much the same as to what would be expected if the girls actually showed up to school. They wake early per usual and we’re up and ready to start school by 8:00 am. Earlier works for us, because we’re all up. My sister is an elementary school teacher, so I’m constantly asking her questions and advice. This is an extreme help! I base what we learn off of my county’s website (TIP). Each county should have a page that tells you what each grade level will learn for the whole school year and how it’s broken up into weeks. Then it’s up to you how you’ll teach and present it in depth and at your own pace. Lunch is 11:00 am and we’re usually done by 1:30 pm daily. Friday is what we call Fun Friday, meaning we still do some learning but a lot of fun things including free time, art and any other extra curricular activities the girls are into!

You have three girls, two fifth graders and a second grader. Do you teach them all together and how do you meet each one where they are?

Because the girls are in two different grades, being my twins in 5th, they too are on different levels and ability and my youngest in 2nd grade, finding a balance and teaching certain topics together works. Science and social studies are usually taught in a group, while reading, writing, and math are done separately. Since the girls are in 5th grade, we’re focusing on independent study, and learning how to focus to get the work done. I do work with each of them one on one as well. For my 2nd grader, it’s definitely more one on one with her and explaining and showing. I can come up with an individualized custom plan of approach when teaching, so that none of my girls are left behind once they go back to school. 

You are known for making the most amazing creations for your daughters to wear. What inspires you and how have you approached back to school fashion this year?

So, now that the girls are home, I don’t sew as much. I used to sew all day while they were at school. I do most to all of my work at night when they’re sleeping! My inspiration comes from all that is around me, including art, travel and the love for vintage. When the girls did attend public school, they wore a uniform. Since being home, it’s more of what’s comfortable and feels good. So, comfort clothing is key! 

And what is the most important thing you hope to teach your girls in this moment?

This year, I plan on teaching the girls more about being who they are and not bending that for anyone at anytime! We also talk and read about many African Americans and Black people around the world, introducing many cultures, art, and literature as well. This gives them more of an opportunity to explore, ask questions and engage in something much more than school could or even would offer. This also allows the girls to think, be and act freely, encouraging self-expression and self-directed ideas toward the world and what’s going on around them. 

What do you think is the best to teach or inspire creativity in children?

To be creative, you need to provide a creative outlet! Encourage trying any and all things. Once your child has found interest in something, be the cheerleader in the background and motivate them to continue to learn and master more of what they love! Those are their building blocks to encourage them to want to learn more. 

What do you most look forward to each day?

What I look forward to each day, is simply knowing that I get to teach my girls everything and anything, and that within itself is one of the most rewarding feelings in the world. Knowing that you have that much power to be able to teach someone, knowing they will take this with them for the rest of their lives!