Not Back-to-School Blog Hop: Curriculum

Hey there!  Welcome to my blog if you are visiting from the Not Back to School Blog Hop. 

I am homeschooling 4 boys ages/grades:

• Truman - 2 year old tot
• Trevor - 5 year old 1st grade
• Tucker - 6 year old 1^st/2^nd grade
• Tyler - 10 year old 5^th grade

Our Curriculum for 2011-2012

Bible – I have struggled finding a Bible curriculum that suited our family & would not be overwhelming in addition to doing the Awana program at our church.  Currently our family is reading the Family Reading Bible each night & we just LOVE it.  It offers several different “paths” to reading the Bible & will last for years to come.  This Bible deserves an entire post of it’s own!  For so long I wanted to just read the Bible to our kids, but I was clueless how to approach it with the age range of my children.  The Family Reading Bible is truly an answered prayer!  I have also decided to add to our “Bible or Character” study.  Tyler picked out Notgrass’ Draw to Learn Jesus & I fell in love with Generation Virtue’s Against the Tide Curriculum.  I bought both of their guides & all the books to go with 1st & 5th grade levels.  This curriculum might be subject sensitive for some families – it deals with purity & other modern day issues head-on.  For my children, I learned a long time ago that secluding them does not always guarantee protecting them from the deceptions of the world so I am personally comfortable with the topics. 

Math is staying the same – Math U See (Alpha & maybe start Beta)  for my mustangs & Teaching Textbooks (Math 6) for Tyler

Language Arts:

Spelling – All 3 of my boys will be using All About Spelling starting on level 1 & working through it at their own paces.

Reading – I plan to use the All About Reading reader’s.  I will also continue using the Explode the Code books with my mustangs, as well as the “I Can Read It” beginning readers; however, if it seems like too much, which ever program works best & they like I will stick with.  Click here for Tyler’s 5th grade reading menu.

Writing – We did not work through the Write Shop books as much as I had planned last year.  I love this series, so I am going to stick with it for my mustangs.  We will continue to work through book A.  Tyler however, is getting to an age that writing skills are much more important.  Writing is not a subject that is totally in my teaching comfort zone, so I decided to invest in IEW – Student Writing Intensive.  I have heard great things about this program & am looking forward to the potential growth Tyler stands to gain from it.  I will be honest, looking online & even at their booth at the convention, I am totally overwhelmed – which is why I decided to choose the “Student Instruction” video’s vs. the “Parent Instruction” videos.  Using this year to build my comfort zone & know-how of the program (&iIf all goes well), next year I will make the leap from the student to the teacher & explore the other options IEW offers.

Language/Grammar – I will continue using First Language Lesson’s with my mustangs & Analytical Grammar JR & Mechanics for Tyler.  Originally I planned to use IEW’s new grammar, Fix It,  with Tyler’s grammar studies as well, since Analytical Grammar is only an 11 week course, but we’ll see ….  IEW might be next years option.

Science was a tough decision for me.  There were several programs that peaked an interest in me – Winter Promise, Real Science For Kids, Apologia, & God’s Design.  And then there was the option of just doing an entire year of nature study.  I have been wanting to study anatomy with the boys for a long time, but there were basic’s that Winter Promise offered that I wanted to cover with my mustangs before jumping into a particular topic.  Tyler really wanted some type of biology study – which I’m sure his younger brother’s would not have objected too.  Ultimately, I decided against Winter Promise because the price & also the fact that I would not be teaching the 3 boys together (which also added to the cost).  I can’t tell you how close I came to purchasing Real Science.  After looking at the books & how appealing they’d be to my boys I was positive that would be an easy, painless, affordable curriculum we’d all enjoy.  Then the Holy Spirit whispered in my ear & I had to take into consideration that although it was not evolutionary, it was not Biblical at all.  The author claims to just present the facts.  For some this may not be an issue & initially it was not for me; however, at this point in my homeschooling journey I decided ultimately it was important for our science studies to provide the word of God.  I love God’s Design.  I’ve used it before & have no complaints what-so-ever.  But, when it came down to comparing the anatomy guides with Apologia – Tyler chose Apologia Anatomy & Physiology.  I completely agree with him & I’m super excited to be using the same curriculum for all the boys.  In addition to the text & projects, the mustangs will be using their new Jr. Notebooking Journal & Tyler will use the original one for older children.  (Did you know each notebook has a suggested schedule?  - yes, the Jr. & original plans differ slightly)

History is staying the same – I am a huge Winter Promise fan.  It allows me to continue teaching the same history to all the boys at 2 different levels.  This year we will be using their All American 1 program.  I can’t wait to jump into American history with my kids!!

Geography is incorporated into the All American 1 program for older students.  They study 1 state each week & make their own State Notebook.  This idea sounded so fun I really wanted my younger boys to lightly join in on the state geography.  You can click HERE to view the resources I will be using in addition to WP.

Spanish – I let Tyler choose what curriculum he wanted to learn Spanish.  Honestly, I was prepared & expected to purchase Rosetta Stone.  After spending about 15 minutes sampling the first lesson, we both knew that Rosetta Stone was NOT going to be it.  I know there are great reviews out there & it has a huge success rate, but for Tyler it just wasn’t he was looking for.  What we really didn’t like about it was that it does not give a lot of instruction.  Instead, he totally surprise me & picked La Clase Divertida.  I am very happy with his choice & hope the mustangs will enjoy learning with him.  La Clase Divertida is a DVD based curriculum, which also includes a workbook (for older students) & crafts/projects.  I think we will have a lot of fun with this!

*We started school in early July.  Click HERE to see my thoughts after the first week of using our new curriculum or you view our weekly Homeschooling Highlights for a little peek at the activities we are doing with this curriculum.*

**You can also click HERE for a list of curriculum we’ve used for prior years.**

***For my thoughts on curriculum we love or that did not work for us click HERE***

---

TOT SCHOOL 2’s Curriculum 

• Before Five In a Row

*BFIAR Resources I don’t think a “curriculum” is necessary, but the FIAR books are wonderful “keepers” that you will read over & over again (not just when your child is 2).  I don’t do all the activities listed in the guide, but pick a few here & there & add some of my own ideas.

• Slow & Steady Get Me Ready

Skills

• Animal’s & Sounds
• Body Parts
• Sign Language
• First Words – building a vocabulary
• Colors
• Counting
• Character Traits

I LOVE Bright & Beyond Activity Cards

 **You can click here for more details on my 2’s Tot School Plans**

 

Our first week: Curriculum

*Click here to see what I picked & my initial thoughts BEFORE we used it.

Here is what I think after our first week:

Bible/Character (purity):  Against the Tide

If there is one curriculum this year that I know the Lord lead me to it is this one.  Without a doubt!  I am so thankful I am starting it young with my mustangs & relieved that I didn’t wait a minute longer to start it with Tyler.  It is perfect timing for the little ones, with a new baby on the way & all the questions that come from that.  But, Tyler is almost 11.  He is on the brink of puberty (I’m sure he will NOT appreciate his mama sharing this publicly).  We began this curriculum with him reading his own devotional & then him & I reading Boyhood & Beyond together.  After our first week I am proud to say that EACH day we have had wonderful, thought-provoking, bonding conversations.  I had no idea the things he “needed” to talk about that this book has opened the doors for.  Even without the curriculum guide, I would highly recommend Boyhood & Beyond to all parents with boys!  FABULOUS!!

Language Arts:

Spelling:  All About Spelling

They love it.  I love it.  After our first week I was able to identify the letters/sounds that needed review, go over vowels, segment words, & review the order of the alphabet.  Tyler is moving much faster (as expected), but even for him – a reluctant reader – it is great review & practice.  Tucker really struggles with learning.  His mind is beyond his years & his heart is not in books it is in nature.  I love this about him, but it makes being his teacher very difficult at times.  My heart breaks for him as I see his younger brother speeding past him in subjects.  But outside the classroom, he has an amazing sense of nature & common sense.  At 2 we could have blindfolded & dropped him off anywhere on our property & I guarantee you he would have found his way home.  He could careless about reading & writing when there are goats, pigs, & calves to play with.  All About Spelling is giving him the hands-on practice he so badly needs & I see his confidence building.  The daily review approach & cards are so helpful.  Tucker has really struggled with sounding out words.  First sounds aren’t near as difficult for him, but the last sound in words, & completely segmenting words was not something he could do.  But this week – he did!!  He did amazing.  Right now, we are not doing any other phonics program – just All About Spelling for about 15-20 minutes a day with each of them.  I am amazed at the progress they have made in just a week!

Writing: IEW

I was so hesitant & overwhelmed with IEW, but as Tyler approached 5th grade & had little writing skills I realized we needed something.  I read reviews of IEW & had friends recommend it, but the cost & options were intimidating.  After seeing a SMILE on his face after his first lesson I was hopeful.  Then having him write a short paragraph WELL on his own, check it & type it without any tears or complaining – I’m sold!  He loves it!  He thinks the teacher is funny.  He understands the lessons & processes.  He is excited & motivated to write.  And I am so excited he is!!  As far as the company – I have to add that I was sent the wrong guide & didn’t realize it until the day we started.  I was not a happy customer, but after calling, explaining my issues – within 10 minutes I had a PDF file in my inbox & by this afternoon the printed guide arrived.  The customer service & satisfaction of this company made me just as proud to support as the material itself. 

Science:  Apologia Human Anatomy  

Apologia science has started off to what I thought was kinda boring.  I wasn’t sure if my kids were understanding it or even listening.  UNTIL . . . I was going over Tyler’s notebooking pages with him & suddenly Tucker & Trevor both are answering the questions.  Next week the activities will be super fun & should grab their attention even more.  The notebooking has added a great hands-on review that we all are enjoying.  The short daily “Try This” experiments keep the kids interested & make the lessons fun.  I can’t wait to dive deeper into our anatomy study.

History:  Winter Promise All American 1 

It is no secret that I am a huge fan of Winter Promise.  I love the layout, book choices, hands-on-activities, & extra work for older kids.  This year when it all arrived I was totally overwhelmed!  There was A LOT!  Time Travelers was so confusing, but once I figured it out & decided how to organize it & then we used it – we are sooo enjoying it!  The reading isn’t overwhelming & the boys are truly learning.  I can’t wait to share the activities we did this week.

Spanish: La Clase Divertida

Spanish has been ALL my kids’ favorite every.day.this.week.  They love love love it!  In just a week they know the vowels & sounds, associated colors, how to ask & respond “what is your name”, & the Spanish alphabet A-G.  The DVD & CD are very interactive & the kids truly engage in it.  They are constantly asking throughout the day to listen to their Spanish CD so they can practice. 

So far, I am very excited & extremely pleased with all our choices.  I have no hesitation or doubts in any of the curriculum I selected this year.  YAY!  And my kids haven’t complained about any of it either – double bonus!!

United States Geography Resources & Supplements

I am soooo very excited to start American history this year!  As I mentioned in my postcard post the other day – we will also begin learning about each of the 50 states (this year we will cover 35).  In our All American curriculum, geography/state study is only scheduled for the older children.  I love the resources offered, but wanted to build on it just a bit (imagine that!), including my younger boys on a lighter level, & adding geography as part of our memorization work.  Here is what I’m up to . . . supplements I will be using:

1. Winter Promise Scheduled Resources
• Make-Your-Own State Notebook
• Time For Kids:  Our 50 United States
• Kids Learn America
• I’m am going to unbind the WP Make-Your-Own State Notebook & add pages to it (from resources listed below).  Then I will make a much easier version for my mustangs.  Details coming soon!
2. Trail Guide to U.S. Geography
• maps
• mapping instructions
• geography terms
• projects
• suggests:  world almanac, geography terms chart,
• printables used to add to notebook:  maps, face the facts sheet, illustrated dictionary, list of state abbreviations, & timezone sheet
3. Cantering the Country
• interesting facts
• geography terms of the state
• biographies (important people)
• literature
• activities
• worksheet activities (state crossword, wordsearch, maps, word scramble, mazes, etc)
• suggests:  A Garden Patch of Reproducible Homeschool Planning & Educational Worksheets
• printables used to add to notebook:  state symbols list, science chart, order of statehood list, map recipe, & biography report
4. Heroes of History MAPS of the United States
• Historical Mapping Activities (The 13 Colonies, Louisiana Purchase, The Civil War)
• Additional Mapping Activities for the U.S.
• Student Explorations
5. UNITED STATES COLORING BOOK (Tyler)
• Color the States where your friends live.
• Color the States where you have visited.
6. (Dover) UNITED STATES Coloring Book (Tucker & Trevor)
• includes info on:  nickname, geographical location, capital, flower, bird, tree, main rivers, statehood, & a brief overview.
7. Geography A to Z
8. Children’s Illustrated Atlas
9. Eat Your Way through the USA
10. Maps from Geography Matters
• Double-Sided Outline Map of the USA/World Laminated (17" x 22") (the kids individual)
• Double-Sided Blank Outline Map of the USA/World Laminated (23" x 34") (classroom map)
• Colorful cloth map of the U.S.
11. Apps
12. Music: 
• States & Capitals by Twin Sisters Productions
• States & Capitals Songs by Kathy Troxel

This sounds like A LOT!  Believe it or not, I already had ALL of this (just picked up here & there over the years).  I am not using each resources to its core, just pulling the listed items from each.  We may not get a chance to cover it all each week, but at least I will be prepared :) Besides, it is just organizing what I already had on hand :)

I realize not everyone has a collection of American History geography resources.  If you are looking for something to add to your state studies the one I think I love the most is the UNITED STATES COLORING BOOK.  It is beautiful & very educational!

^{image from Amazon}

I seriously considered using this for all the boys, but decided it might be a little overwhelming for the younger two.  Instead I’m using the dover coloring book & am going to let them add stickers like the pictures in this book. 

I’m off to assemble state notebooks . . .

Tot School

I know I’ve posted before about my beliefs on starting “school” with little ones, but if you are new to this blog or somehow missed those posts . . . I just want to say, that I do NOT start “school” with my little ones to jumpstart them into being the smartest 2 or 3 year olds or because I think they “have” to do school asap.  My opinion, is quite the contrary.  I start introducing “school-like” activities to my little tot’s mainly to keep them busy & entertained.  I think it is very important to encourage natural growth & exploration in an educational/hands-on environment.  During the toddler years I try to surround my kids with toys & activities that will build necessary skills for upcoming years.  So, what do I use & exactly what do I focus on?

TOT SCHOOL 2’s

Curriculum 

• Before Five In a Row

*BFIAR Resources

I don’t think a “curriculum” is necessary, but the FIAR books are wonderful “keepers” that you will read over & over again (not just when your child is 2).  I don’t do all the activities listed in the guide, but pick a few here & there & add some of my own ideas.

• Slow & Steady Get Me Ready

Skills

• Animal’s & Sounds
• Body Parts
• Sign Language
• First Words – building a vocabulary
• Colors
• Counting
• Character Traits

I LOVE Bright & Beyond Activity Cards!

This is a great time to set the tone for “school” & begin each morning with a circle time.  I would suggest starting with a short routine of a prayer, song, “how are you today”, a short calendar time – “Today is Monday”, the weather, & possibly 1-2 focus reviews (Ex. new word, character trait).  Add to your circle time as your child matures & understand.  You can do a complete calendar time, memory work, & build on skills you are focusing on.  Preschooler’s & Peace offers great Circle Time Suggestions.

Truman turned two in May so “Tiny Tot Time” will now be “Tot School” 

Here is my weekly planning sheet (I made using a combination of ideas from sources listed below):

Tot School Weekly Planning

*on the back I print the activities list for easy reference for planning.

Here is the the assessment sheet I made for Truman this year:

Tot School Assessment

 

 

---

TOT SCHOOL 3’s

Curriculum 

•  WP: I’m Ready to Learn

At this age I love to begin themes with our learning & include weekly focus for:

• memory verse
• number
• shape
• color
• letter – recognition
• new words each 

*Here is a link to the workbook cover’s I made for my boys.

• Christian Light Workbooks (motor skills, hand-eye coordination, & visual comparison)
  • About Three
  • Bigger Steps
  • Color, Count, And Cut
  • Doing my My Best
• Continue story time with FIAR books & activities     

          FIAR Resources  *I LOVE Delightful Learning’s Lap Journal*

• Bright & Beyond Preschool Activity Cards
• Handwriting Without Tears
  • Hands-on Materials
    • Crayons
    • Wall cards
    • Name Plates
    • Mat Man
  • Skills:
    • Mat Man – Shapes
    • Mat Man – Opposites
    • Language & Literacy
    • Line it Up
    • A-B-C Touch & Flip Cards
  • Numbers & Math
    • Teacher’s Guide
    • I Know My Numbers booklets
    • 4 Squares More Squares
    • Tag Bags
    • 1-2-3 Touch & Flip Cards
    • Sing, Sound, & Count With Me CD

I tried to have hands-on activities for each of our weekly focus' - for J- they sorted & counted & practiced patterns with Jelly Beans.  When we were learning the shape of a heart we made heart cookies. Snack time was also an important part of our day - I tried to tie in the concepts we were learning.  If our shape was oval we'd have a boiled egg, if we were focusing on the color blue & squares, we'd have blue squares of jello.  If we read Jesse Bear - we had teddy grahams, etc.

I also created a Preschool Poster we refer to daily that included all the weeks information (mentioned above), plus a list of other skills/activities (listed below) & centers.

Preschool Poster

---

SKILLS & ACTIVITIES

Observing & Exploring Skills
Water/Sand Play/ Sensory Tubs
Measuring Cups
Boats
Magnets
Flashlight

Classifying Skills
Laundry, toys, silverware, groceries, & magazine pictures

Relationship/Measuring Skills

Opposites
Measuring tape/cups

Matching Skills
Memory Game
Puzzles

Verbal Development
Bible Stories
Nursery Rhymes
Naming Animals/Body Parts/Household Objects
Dramatizing Verbs ("Eat," "Hop," "Brush," "Smell")

Auditory Discrimination Skills
Listening to tapes
Play "Go & Get"

Visual Discrimination Skills
Classify objects by color
Legos

Creative Expression Skills
Puppets
Google (make a picture of this shape)
Play Dough
Dolls
Dress up
Trucks, Cars
Clap to music
Music instruments
Singing
Collages
Macaroni, paper shapes
Painting (water colors, finger paint)
Vegetable sculptures

Gross Motor Skills
Walking like a dog, bear, crab, worm, duck, frog
Hopping, Skipping, Balancing
Roll Like a Log
Push, Pull, Drag
Balloons
Bubbles
Window Washing
Pouring rice back & forth
Hokey Pokey
Obstacles Course

Fine Motor Skills
Buttoning, snapping, cutting, tracing, zipping, coloring

Fun
Cooking help
Tea Party
Nature Walk Hide & Seek
Tag
I Spy Mother May I
Simon Says

Chores

This is also the age that I begin chores with my little ones.  We begin with personal care & property –  dressing themselves, washing hands, brushing teeth, picking up shoes, dirty clothes, & small messes (if their room is a big mess, I will sit in the floor & direct them.  They typically know where something goes, but the large mess can be rather overwhelming).  Toddlers also love to wipe things.  I give Truman a spray bottle (with water & vinegar) to “clean”.  If they spill something, I give them a rag to clean it themselves (I usually come in behind & clean-up, but to initially allow them to clean the mess teaches them responsibility).  At this age, they love to mimic activities.  Usually my little one will follow the older children around as they do their chores.  When the boys are picking up the yard, Truman loves to point out the poop, or a out-of-place toy. 

These are great posts on chores:

• The Boyer Blog:  Age Appropriate Chores
• Chocolate On My Cranium:  Age Appropriate Chores/Skills

---

Rewards:

At this age praise goes a LONG way.  Early learners gain so much confidence & joy just from seeing the reaction of others.  I try to over-react in praise & make sure my little one knows how proud I am.  Stickers or small treats also go along way – even a toy that only gets to be played with on special occasions.  As your child matures from 2-3, you may introduce rewards.  We have magnet frames for “cheerfulness”, “sharing”, etc. that are displayed.  Depending on your child’s understanding, you could also begin an easy reward system.

Discipline:

Two is not exactly my favorite stage.  Mostly because my own lack of patience combined with the lack of communication with a demanding little person.  Each of my children have such different personalities that have required very different consequences.  I am certainly no expert & feel totally inadequet to give any advice in this area; however, I will highly recommend Creative Corrections by Lisa Whelchel (this book is a toolbox for parenting children of all ages).

---

HELPFUL RESOURCES:

Theme Suggestions:

• Character Traits
• Bible Stories
• Books/Authors
• Movies/Characters
• All About Me (my feelings/emotions, my family, my body, my community)
• Birthday
• Human Body
• Healthy Foods – Fruits & Veggies
• Jobs (police, fire, post office, teacher, construction, etc.)
• World
• Solar System
• Places (towns, country, continents, etc.)
• Circus
• Farm
• Ponds
• Ocean
• Forest
• Zoo
• Garden/flowers
• Holidays
• Seasons & Weather
• Rainbow
• Animals (baby animals)
• Bugs
• Dinosaurs
• Monsters
• Western
• Pirates
• Knights/Princesses/Castles
• Transportation

Websites & Blogs:

•  Preschool Homeschooling Article
• Tot School
  • Tools For Tots
  • Assessment & Planning Forms
• Totally Tots
• ABC & 123
• Preschool Corner
  • Planning Forms
• Confessions of a Homeschooler
• Delightful Learning
• Quirky Momma
• Lets Explore
• Share & Remember
• Mama Jenn
• Our Homeschool Fun
• Chasing Cheerios
• Hubbards Cupboard
• Brightly Beaming Resouces (Letter of the Week)
• Preschoolers & Peace
• The Home Teacher
• Preschool Rainbow
• PreKinders
• Homeschool Share
• No Time For Flashcards

This is also a very fun age to begin Muffin Tin Meals

Apps:

Sorry the sono pix is my background picture :)

Songs:

• Handwriting Without Tears CD’s
• The Donut Man
• Laurie Beckner
• Buck Howdy
• Praise Baby
• Wee Sing Nursery Rhymes
• Cedarmont Kids
• Focus on the Family Singing Bible

Movies/Shows I let my 2-3 year old watch:

Desperate times call for desperate measures!  We don’t have cable TV – movies & Netflix only, but there are points in the day that an educational or entertaining show is extremely helpful. 

• Barney – yes, my 2 year old LOVES Barney
• Backyardigains
• Dora & Diego
• Praise Baby
• Leap Frog
• Any movies or shows with animals!

  ---

All About Spelling

One of my new picks for curriculum this year is All About Spelling.  I have searched high & low for the perfect spelling/phonics curriculum.  I think I have found it.  As I prepare to start school (in a week – YIKES!!) I have been reading all the teacher guides familiarizing myself with the curriculum.  I totally fell in love with All About Spelling!

Here are the things I LOVE about this program:

• The letter tiles are COLOR coded (& magnetic)!!
• The Review Box – LOVE THIS IDEA!!  Each kid has their own review box & you begin each daily lesson with REVIEW!
• Flashcards (also color coded) for each kid!! (purchased separately, but well worth it!!)
• Like Winter Promise, your child learns all the sounds of a letter
• The teacher’s guide includes “Don’t Forget” teaching reminders
• Lesson plans are not planned out for you – no getting “behind” just moving ahead (at your child’s pace).  In fact the guide suggests, “schedule as many study secessions needed before moving on.”
• The All About Reading books correspond with All About Spelling lessons.

All my boys are starting at level one.  I’m interested to see how each of them progresses through the program at their own speed.  I really think they are going to LOVE spelling this year – the multisensory is so important for my boys.  I’m so excited to begin!!

Against the Tide

At our local convention this year I fell in LOVE with the Generations of Virtue curriculum guide.  The books that are suggested are fabulous!!  I either already have some of them or they were on my wanted list.  There are so many aspects of these guides, Against the Tide,  that I like - it is just too good not to share. 

There are 2 guides offered.  The first is for PK-4th grade.  Some of the resources are gender neutral, others offer different suggests for boys & girls.  For example The Princess & the Kiss or The Squire & the Scroll.  The second guide is for 5th-8th grade & the resources & topics are divided up by gender.  The first portion of the guide is for Girls Only & the the last half is dedicated to resources for Boys Only.  From the guide:  “Both guides take you year to year through wonderful resources you can use to teach your children to stand against the tide of culture.”  All the resources you will need for the year are listed in one spot, there are a list of things your children should learn throughout the year, & there are 3 timeline options:  A week study – if you want to use all the resources in one week, a unit study – if you choose to divide the resources, & a devotions option – for family devotions or group studies.  Each list of resources is described informatively in the following pages, with activities & discussion questions listed as well.  The user of the resources suggested vary – some of the materials are for either parent to do with the child, some are strictly for father/son or daughter or mother/daughter or son.  For older children, there are resources for them to use independently.  There are also suggested parent resources (which are also described in depth).  The guide purposely does not schedule the parent resource – you are able to read at your own pace without slowing or rushing the study you are doing with your child. 

Here is an example of the resources we will be using this year:

1st Grade Resources

Just Joining:

• The Wonderful Way Babies Are Made
• The Story of Me
• The Squire & the Scroll

Tools For The Sandbox:

• This Is No Fairy Tale by Dale Tolmasoff
• With You All The Way by Max Lucado
• Why Do Birds Build Nests?  by Susan Horner
• A Little Book of Manners For Boys  by Bob & Emilie Barnes
• A Warrior Prince For God by Kelly Chapman

5th Grade Resources

Tools For The Sandbox:

• Created for Work by Bob Schultz
• Boyhood & Beyond by Bob Schultz
• *Knights, Maidens & Dragons by Julia Duin
• What Does the Bible Say about That? by Carolyn Larsen

Parent Resources:

• The Danger of Raising Nice Kids by Timothy Smith
• King Me by Steve Farrar
• Preparing Him For The Other Woman by Sheri Rose Shepherd
• Preparing Your Son for Every Man’s Battle by Stephen Arterburn, & Fred Stoeker with Mike Yorkey
• *Setting a Paradigm for Purity CD by Julie Hiramine & the Generations of Virtue Team
• Information Technology 101 CD by Julie Hiramine & the Generations of Virtue Team

Against The Tide

At our local convention this year I fell in LOVE with the Generations of Virtue curriculum guide.  The books that are suggested are fabulous!!  I either already have some of them or they were on my wanted list.  There are so many aspects of these guides, Against the Tide,  that I like it is just too good not to share. 

There are 2 guides offered.  The first is for PK-4th grade.  Some of the resources are gender neutral, others offer different suggests for boys & girls.  For example The Princess & the Kiss or The Squire & the Scroll.  The second guide is for 5th-8th grade & the resources & topics are divided up by gender.  The first portion of the guide is for Girls Only & the the last half is dedicated to resources for Boys Only.  From the guide:  “Both guides take you year to year through wonderful resources you can use to teach your children to stand against the tide of culture.”  All the resources you will need for the year are listed in one spot, there are a list of things your children should learn throughout the year, & there are 3 timeline options:  A week study – if you want to use all the resources in one week, a unit study – if you choose to divide the resources, & a devotions option – for family devotions or group studies.  Each list of resources is described informatively in the following pages, with activities & discussion questions listed as well.  The user of the resources suggested vary – some of the materials are for either parent to do with the child, some are strictly for father/son or daughter or mother/daughter or son.  For older children, there are resources for them to use independently.  There are also suggested parent resources (which are also described in depth).  The guide purposely does not schedule the parent resource – you are able to read at your own pace without slowing or rushing the study you are doing with your child. 

Here is an example of the resources we will be using this year:

1st Grade Resources

Just Joining:

• The Wonderful Way Babies Are Made
• The Story of Me
• The Squire & the Scroll

Tools For The Sandbox:

• This Is No Fairy Tale by Dale Tolmasoff
• With You All The Way by Max Lucado
• Why Do Birds Build Nests?  by Susan Horner
• A Little Book of Manners For Boys  by Bob & Emilie Barnes
• A Warrior Prince For God by Kelly Chapman

5th Grade Resources

Tools For The Sandbox:

• Created for Work by Bob Schultz
• Boyhood & Beyond by Bob Schultz
• *Knights, Maidens & Dragons by Julia Duin
• What Does the Bible Say about That? by Carolyn Larsen

Parent Resources:

• The Danger of Raising Nice Kids by Timothy Smith
• King Me by Steve Farrar
• Preparing Him For The Other Woman by Sheri Rose Shepherd
• Preparing Your Son for Every Man’s Battle by Stephen Arterburn, & Fred Stoeker with Mike Yorkey
• *Setting a Paradigm for Purity CD by Julie Hiramine & the Generations of Virtue Team
• Information Technology 101 CD by Julie Hiramine & the Generations of Virtue Team

I <3 Curriculum

I cannot tell you how happy I was to receive my bedrest discharge orders right before our local homeschool convention (I say local lightly – it is actually like 2 hours away).  Originally, Big Daddy was going to go with me (for the first time), but he backed out.  Probably a good thing, because he would not have been very patient with me looking at the same book 3 different times.  I think there are aspects of the convention he would have enjoyed but not the duration.  Besides, I can spend way more money without him!  LOL 

I had a fabulous day with my oldest son.  He was so good to me & a great sport.  Plus, I really enjoyed having him there to ask his opinion on curriculum I was considering.  Actually, he choose our science curriculum & he has been begging to learn Spanish so I let him pick that too.  

So what did we get?

Are you ready for all this?

Here is our line-up for 2011-12:

Bible – I have struggled finding a Bible curriculum that suited our family & would not be overwhelming in addition to doing the Awana program at our church.  Currently our family is reading the Family Reading Bible each night & we just LOVE it.  It offers several different “paths” to reading the Bible & will last for years to come.  This Bible deserves an entire post of it’s own!  For so long I wanted to just read the Bible to our kids, but I was clueless how to approach it with the age range of my children.  The Family Reading Bible is truly an answered prayer!  After spending time at the convention, I have also decided to add to our “Bible or Character” study.  Tyler picked out Notgrass’ Draw to Learn Jesus & I fell in love with Generation Virtue.  I bought both of their guides & all the books to go with 1st & 5th grade levels.  This curriculum might be subject sensitive for some families – it deals with purity & other modern day issues head-on.  For my children, I learned a long time ago that secluding them does not always guarantee protecting them from the deceptions of the world. 

Math is staying the same – Math U See for my mustangs & Teaching Textbooks for Tyler

Language Arts:

Spelling – All 3 of my boys will be using All About Spelling starting on level 1 & working through it at their own paces.

Reading – I plan to continue using the Explode the Code books with my mustangs, as well as the “I Can Read It” beginning readers; however, I will also be adding the All About Reading reader’s & if it seems like too much, which ever program works best & they like I will stick with.  For Tyler I will be making a new book list for the upcoming year.

Writing – We did not work through the Write Shop books like I had planned.  I love this series, so I am planning to stick with it for my mustangs.  We will continue to work through book A.  Tyler however, is getting to an age that writing skills is much more important.  Writing is not a subject that is totally in my teaching comfort zone, so I decided to invest in IEW.  I have heard great things about this program & am looking forward to the potential growth Tyler stands to gain from it.  I will be honest, looking online & even at their booth at the convention, I am totally overwhelmed – which is why I decided to choose the “Student Instruction” video’s vs. the “Parent Instruction” videos.  Using this year to build my comfort zone & know-how of the program (& If all goes well), next year I will make the leap from the student to the teacher & explore the other options IEW offers.

Language/Grammar – I will continue using First Language Lesson’s with my mustangs & Analytical Grammar for Tyler.  Since Analytical Grammar is only an 11 week study I decided to also add IEW’s new grammar to Tyler’s grammar studies.  This should not be too overwhelming for him, considering both programs are quick & to the point.

Science was a tough decision for me.  There were several programs that peaked an interest in me – Winter Promise, Real Science For Kids, Apologia, & God’s Design.  And then there was the option of just doing an entire year of nature study.  I have been wanting to study anatomy with the boys for a long time, but there were basic’s that apologia offered that I wanted to cover with my mustangs before jumping into a particular topic.  Tyler really wanted some type of biology study – which I’m sure he younger brother’s would not have objected too.  Ultimately, I decided against Winter Promise because the price & also the fact that I would not be teaching the 3 boys together (which also added to the cost).  I can’t tell you how close I came to purchasing Real Science.  After looking at the books & how appealing they’d be to my boys I was positive that would be an easy, painless, affordable curriculum we’d all enjoy.  Then the Holy Spirit whispered in my ear & I had to take into consideration that although it was not evolutionary, it was not Biblical at all.  The author claims to just present the facts.  For some this may not be an issue & initially it was not for me; however, at this point in my homeschooling journey I decided ultimately it was important for our science studies to provide the word of God.  I love God’s Design.  I’ve used it before & have no complaints what-so-ever.  But, when it came down to comparing the anatomy guides with Apologia – Tyler chose Apologia.  I completely agree with him & I’m super excited to be using the same curriculum for all the boys.  In addition to the text & projects, the mustangs will be using their new Jr. Notebooking Journal & Tyler will use the original one for older children.  (Did you know each notebook has a suggested schedule?  - yes, the Jr. & original plans differ slightly)

History is staying the same – I am a huge Winter Promise fan.  It allows me to continue teaching the same history to all the boys at 2 different levels.  This year we will be using their All American 1 program.  I can’t wait to jump into American history with my kids!!

Spanish – As I mentioned above, I let Tyler choose what curriculum he wanted to learn Spanish.  Honestly, I was prepared & expected to purchase Rosetta Stone.  After spending about 0-15 sampling the first lesson we both knew that Rosetta Stone was NOT going to be it.  I know there are great reviews out there & it has a huge success rate, but for Tyler it just wasn’t it.  What we really didn’t like about it was that it does not give a lot of instruction.  Instead, he totally surprise me & picked La Clase Divertida.  I am very happy with his choice & hope the mustangs will enjoy learning with him.  La Clase Divertida is a DVD based curriculum, which also includes a workbook (for older students) & crafts/projects.  I think we will have a lot of fun with this!

. . . That’s not all I got . . . But this is all the time I have!  I look forward to sharing more of what I got (like, for me!!!) & other sweet finds I had to walk away from.  I will also be sharing more details on the curriculum I picked as I “study” & discover it more.  I’m sorry this post doesn’t have links – I will try to come back soon to update it with links.  If you can’t find anything I’ve mentioned you can always click here to view all the vendors that were at the convention.

Winter Promise “Just Learning To Read”

After using Winter Promise PK/K Basic Phonics last year (& LOVIN’ it!!), I decided to move on to WP “Just Learning To Read”.  I especially liked this curriculum because it incorporated Explode the Code (huge fan!) & I love the Now I’m Reading beginning readers. 

*Before I go any further in detail, I want to make it clear that I have not used this curriculum consistently, due to the way life has gone for us it has been more of a stop & go :)

I like Just Learning To Read, but for me (TYPE A) & my boys (well, 100% boys), it jumped around a little too much.  The key focus wasn’t clear throughout the program.  For example the focus may be short a, but a particular word family was not a main focus.  So using Explode the Code the focus could be –at, but the worksheets were –at, –an, & –ap, which were not explained or taught anywhere else in the program.  The readers correspond to the vowel focus, but also contained other blends & sounds that had not been covered.  Sight words were not formally introduced in any particular part of the program either.  For some kids these are not issues, for us it was just too jumpy to master any particular focus.  So that was my main issue with the program.  Here is my overall opinion:

• The guide – wonderful, informative, very easy to use.
• Handwriting pages – the lines were not wide enough for my boys.
• Explode the Code books – love.  However, after book 1 is completed I noticed the program uses book 2 & 3 out of order (a couple weeks on book 2, then a couple lessons in book 3 & back & forth).
• The Word Family Activity book – I liked parts of this, but much of it was over their head & just became busy work.  The space allowed for writing is extremely small & this was a big problem for us.
• Read & Write Mini books – this was my boys’ favorite part.  They took great pride in making their books & we will continue using these as we review.
• Readers Set – I really do like these books & my boys enjoyed reading them a great deal – I just wish they would have corresponded more to the program.

We began the K program this fall & I have seen great progression & maturity for reading, but I don’t think my mustangs are ready to continue on to Explode the Code Book 2 (which is where the program is headed).  So, I decided to take a little break from WP & do my own thang – REVIEW!  At first I thought I’d just pick up ETC Book 1 1/2 (1/2 levels are review).  But I actually think they not only need 1.5, but they also need to redo book 1.  Some of the material in WP was just too advanced for them when we started & I really haven’t pushed them, but would like to see more concepts understood before we continue.  I will be sharing over the next few days how I plan to tie things together more for them.

Momma’s Boy School 2010-2011

Tyler is going to be in 4th grade this year. I cannot believe how fast time has flown by. Sometimes it seems like just yesterday . . . we were beginning our homeschool journey. This year we will be entering our 5th year of homeschooling.

Here is my curriculum list for Momma’s Boy:

• A Reason For Handwriting Book D
• Spell Well Book C Cc
• Wordly Wise Book 3 or 4 ??
• Analytical Grammar
• Write Shop C
• Teaching Textbooks Math 5 & maybe the Fred Fraction book
• Winter Promise Sea & Sky (Science & History)
  • This is a world history study that looks at major world events through the history of sailing and flight.
• I decided to hold off on joining a Classical Conversations group this year; however, I foresee it being apart of our schooling next year. At this point we will use the Foundations guide & cycle 2 cd’s for some memory work. I plan to implement this with the math facts, some of the science (the astronomy portion which coincides with our WP studies), some of the grammar, a little of the timeline facts, & the Bible memory work – the book of Ephesians.

Reading is still a challenge for Tyler so I will continue with the reading strategies I have learn over the passed few years. My goal this year is to get him reading books he will love! Here are some books I am hoping he can tackle this year:

• Mrs. Piggle Wiggle
• Shiloh
• Encyclopedia Brown
• Little Tim & the Brave Sea Captain
• Pirate’s Promise
• Hank the Cowdog
• The Gift of the Pirate Queen
• A Lion to Guard Us
• Pippi Longstocking
• Seabird
• Pagoo

Daddy’s Girl School 2010-2011

First off, let me state that where my children attend school is NOT their decision.  We do however, value their opinions.  With that said, Tim & I have the final say.  Our situation with Taylor is a little more complicated, because there is a custody issue involved.

Over the past several months I have prayed diligently for God to direct our path for our homeschool this year.  In May Taylor hinted that she wanted to return home for her schooling.  When it was discussed later she grew very adamant about her decision to be homeschooled.  I continued to pray & honestly gave it to God completely.  I did NOT want to make the decision!  Taylor returning home for school effects the entire house & I was hesitant that although it might be good for her, it might not have the same outcome for our other children. 

As I prayed, Classical Conversations repeatedly crossed my plate.  I truly believed God was leading us towards joining a Classical Conversations group.  I especially thought this would be a wonderful option for Taylor especially.  I tend to get gung-hole over matters, but I was very cautious not to rush into any decision making.  I prayed.  I prayed.  I prayed.  I debated on joining the Foundations group or just the Essentials classes.  I feel that writing & grammar are not my areas of strength (especially with Taylor!) & I grew very excited about her being apart of this group. 

Taylor has been with her mom for almost 3 weeks now (for her summer visitation).  This week we met with her & we ALL sat down with her counselor to discuss the plan for the upcoming school year.  On the way to our meeting I prayed & asked God to direct our paths & allow me to trust Him no matter the outcome.  During our meeting Taylor very maturely stated that she had changed her mind & thought it would be better to go back to public school.  I would be lying if I said I wasn’t disappointed, but at the same time I felt a major sense of relief.

So for 2010-2011 we will enroll Taylor in the 6th grade at our local public school.  This year will differ greatly for her than the previous years, as the school as now departmentalized its classes by subjects.  She will now have a different teacher for each subject.  Math is her biggest weakness academically & for the first time she will have a very challenging teach for this subject.  I am certain this will prove to be a good thing for Taylor & pray she will thrive with this opportunity.  She will also be playing volleyball for the school’s Jr. High team!  This should be a great motivation for her to succeed academically. – no pass, no play!

God is so faithful.   I rest in assurance that He works only for the good.  Although I may not understand the details, I trust in His plans.

Science Curriculum & Links

I don’t know why I have compiled this collection of science curriculum & links, but here are some of my favorites I have come across in my curriculum searching . . .

CURRICULUM:

• R.E.A.L. Science Odyssey
• Christian Kids Explore
• Real Science 4 Kids
• God's Design For Science
• Exploration Education
• Winter Promise
• Apologia
• Academy of Science For Kids

LINKS/ONLINE STORES:

• Home Science Tools
• Discover This
• Yee Shall Know (science lapbooks)
• One Small Square Books
• Zoo Books
• Ranger Rick & Your Big Backyard

What is your favorite science? 

Mustangs School 2010-20011

As I consider curriculum & a plan for our upcoming school year I find myself in the same position I was in last year – Right in the middle. . .

Last year they were passed most of the PK goals, but weren’t quite ready for Kindergarten so I called them PreKinders.  This year as I reevaluated their “level” I found that Trevor could pretty much keep up (if not surpass) his Irish-Twin brother.  Trevor’s fine-motor (writing & cutting) are the only area that he isn’t equal or ahead of Tucker.  He is a very sharp little mustang!  He loves learning & memorizing is fun to him.  Tucker is doing great!  He has found a new motivation called “brotherly competition” & works very hard to stay ahead.  He is my hands-on child & loves to draw & color right now.  Here is are some of my goals that we still need to work on:

• Recognizes sight words
• Recognizes beginning sounds of words
• Identifies & writes last name in print
• Simple rhyming
• Illustrator, Author
• Memory Work
  • Easy poems, nursery rhymes
• Tie shoes
• Independence - CHORES!
• Understanding of city/town, state, country, continent
• Recognizes Texas on a state map
• Directions (N,S,E,W)
• Oceans & Continents
• Understands concepts of addition & subtraction
• Adds to 10
• First – Fifth
• Simple graph
• Counting by 2's & 5's

So where does all this leave us with curriculum for next year?  I feel like we are almost ready for first grade so we will:

• Finish MUS Primer & start Alpha in January
• Winter Promise Advanced K “Just Learning To Read” (includes handwriting & spelling practice)
• Trevor will use Handwriting Without Tears K book
• Tucker will use Handwriting Without Tears 1st grade book
• Possibly Wordly Wise for a little vocab
• Writeshop Book A for beginning writing concepts

I am prayerfully considering our Science & History work . . . My mind is a mess in this area!  I have considered several options.  If I were ONLY schooling the mustangs I would choose Winter Promise’s Hideaways in History hands down!  However, I have truly enjoyed schooling ALL the boys together this year with our Animals & Their Worlds studies.  I was very diligent in our schooling & it was much easier to keep up with as a group so I am very hesitant to separate them.  (Hideaways is NOT an option for Tyler.)  So, I am debating on Hideaways in History or using the younger learners guide in Tyler’s studies.  To confuse me even more WP has changed a few things i the Hideaways package, so I’m not sure I would use the old guide & books or the newer version.  AHHHH!!!  And to make me even crazier, we are leaning towards joining a Classical Conversations group.  I am convinced this is a great opportunity for my big kids; however, I am super worried about how this will work for my MUSTANGS!!  To summerize these ramblings:

• Winter Promise Hideaways in History 
• Winter Promise Hideaways in History & CC
• Winter Promise Sea & Sky Younger Learners
• Winter Promise Sea & Sky Younger Learners & CC
• Or just CC

. . .  I’m praying diligently!

Classical Conversations

 

I first heard about this group last year when two of my good friends joined.  I was very excited for them to join the group, but that was I path I swore I would NEVER join them on.  It wasn’t really my style (I love picking my own curriculum way too much & I have my own “cycle” of history & science! ).  Classical Conversations was not in MY plans! 

As I continue to pray over our homeschooling next year, & especially our plans for Daddy’s girl, CC continues be an option that keeps crossing MY path!

A few weeks ago I read this post by Heidi at Mt. Hope Chronicles.  Ever since it has been heavy on my heart – seeming to be the perfect solution for Taylor.  I shared some of the same hesitations Heidi describes, as well as, my own:

• I like to make my own sequence of learning & love our Winter Promise curriculum.
• It is expensive.
• The intense focus on memory work without context - memorization aspect is impressive at first, but it isn't followed up with any kind of understanding.
• The simple fact that any program is only as good as the people (directors, tutors, parents, and children) involved.  You are paying for their time, but not their expertise.

However, after reading Heidi’s post & speaking with my friends that I know who have already participated in CC, I am now beginning to think CC might be in God’s plan for our homeschool.  NEVER say NEVER!

The benefits . . .

I like the idea of CC for Taylor especially, because it is geared highly toward memorization.  Although Taylor does not have a learning disability, she struggles with wanting to learn & the learning process.  Most of the time she is not academically motivated; however, she is VERY good at memorizing.  For this reason I think CC would be a great academic motivator for her.  One of my friends told me that her girls wanted to memorize the information because at CC they play games as a group & they wanted to win.  I’ll take all the motivation I can get!!  I also think the boys could benefit from a little memorization themselves!  Which, to be perfectly honest, would also hinder a few of my own insecurities.  Sometimes I wonder if I have grown a little too flexible & relaxed in my homeschooling our children.  The accountability of CC may be perfect for keeping us all on track.

The cost of CC is expensive; however, not in the long term standpoint.  Plus, I will have the opportunity to train as a tutor & teach – which will offer us a break in the expense.

I am a little overwhelmed with the decision making.  Things to consider -

Do I enroll all the kids?  Just the big kids?  or just Taylor?

-I’m leaning towards ALL the kids.

Do we do the Foundations program?  Foundations & Essentials?  or just Essentials?  Should I also enroll Tyler in the Essentials class or just Taylor?

-I’m leaning towards enrolling them ALL in the Foundations program.   Like Heidi, I am very excited about using the memory work as a spring-board for supplemental studies during the week. All of the memory work is on a CD, so that will make it very easy to review every day. We'll be doing CC work at the beginning of our daily routine as “memory work” and using Winter Promise Sea & Sky as our main curriculum.

The Essentials are NOT my strength in teaching, so I truly believe this will prove to be a great opportunity for both my big kids.

Do I put Truman in the nursery (& pay) or do I let my mother-in-law watch him?

-Although I hate to leave him, I will most likely be teaching & with my other kids most of the day.  I would much rather leave him with my mother-in-law, who I know will love all over him, than in a nursery.  I just pray he does well with the separation.  Plus, there is the reality that he is sick a lot (something I have not yet posted on) & I fear this will cause me to have to miss – which will conflict with me tutoring.

Our kids are very close.  I would say we are a tight-knit family.  However, the idea of all my kids being in a separate class may be a good thing.  They will all still be learning the same thing, but in different classes.  Tucker is my main concern in this decision.  He is so borderline first grade.  Although CC is age specific & not grade, I worry about him being in a 6 & 7 year old class. 

. . . I have a few concerns to work out in my own head, but if this is God’s will then I trust it will all work itself out.  Outside of the financial cost of CC, my concerns are mainly for the boys . . .  I truly believe in natural learning, letting kids be kids, & I am not big on fact drilling or test taking.  (Please note that I am still researching CC, I am not saying by any means that this is the way it works. I just worry that they will be miserable, as the style of CC may be something very different from what they are accustom to.)  On the other hand, I totally agree with the trivium model of classical education.  My kids are at an age that they are sponges, soaking in every little bit of information they get.  I relate so much to Heidi’s post, to summerize my thoughts,

“It occurred to me that Classical Conversations provides exactly the elements that are weaknesses for me and opportunities that my boys kids need: 1.) Consistency and discipline in memory work across all subjects. 2.) Accountability. 3.) A social network of families interested in the same educational goals. 4.) Experience in a classroom situation. 5.) Opportunity to make new friends. 6.) Learning from other adults and mentors. 7.) Hands-on science and fine arts projects. 8.) Practice in public speaking.”

I am continuing to pray over our decision to join CC & I am confident that God will direct our paths straight.  I see His hand in the decision making & feel totally confident in where we are & where we are going.

Bible

As CrAzY as this may sound, I have had a hard time finding the right Bible studies for our homeschool.  Yes, I know the BIBLE is the best source & I had a wonderful year using Heart of Dakota’s Little Hearts For His Glory – which we read through an entire children’s Bible.  Since then though, I have wanted to find a relaxed study that will teach my older child & young children together. 

I have heard great things about Veritas Press’s Bible curriculum, but I’m not sure where I would start & I’m apprehensive that it is really what would work for us.

I have another friend that love’s Kay Arthur’s children’s studies.  These are fantastic, but are recommended for ages 8-12 so it is way over my mustangs heads. 

After hearing Ken Ham from Answers in Genesis speak, I think it is extremely valuable for kids to learn the precepts of the Bible & have answers to their questions so that they are able to defend their faith & recognize the truth.  It is very important to me that my children learn more than just the Bible stories.  I already use God's Design for science & love it.  My interest in the Answers for Kids Series is growing.

Devotions have been a huge hit around here.  Our favorites are the Tyndale Kid’s Devotions.  I use The One Year Book of Devotions for Boys for my boys in the morning & Sticky Situations & The One Year Book of Did You Know Devotions for Kids for all the kids right before bed.  My mom got the kids started on what has now become a tradition.  I read the story, then the related text & then the kids play a guessing game to discover where it came from.  Believe it or not, it has been a great refresher for my big kids on the book of the Bible & a wonderful intro to the younger boys.  It even helps my Mustangs with some math skills.  Here is what a typical game is like:

Tucker: “Old Testament?”

Me:  “No.”

Tyler:  “Matthew?”

Me: “Nope.”

Taylor:  “John?”

Me:  “Yes!”

Trevor:  “1?”

Me:  “Higher.”

Tucker:  “Bigger than 1?  That means if comes after right mom? 3?

Me:  “Yes!  You got it!”

Tyler:  “I know, I know, John 3:16, ‘For God so love the world that He gave His one & only son . . .”

I usually just say higher or lower & remind them that if it mentions Jesus or is something He said it is most likely from the New Testament.  They have all gotten very good at this game & get really mad if I slip & accidently read the book it is from. 

We also like the Hide ‘Em In Your Hearts & Seed scripture songs for practicing scripture memory.  These are very catchy & we all enjoy them.  My older kids would kill me if they knew I told on them, but we are ALL big fans of the Praise Baby DVD’s & Songs. 

I’m still on the lookout for the perfect fit of children’s Bible study for my crew, so if you have any suggestions please leave me a comment or e-mail me.

Teaching Writing

Teaching writing is NOT one of my strong suites.  I struggled with grading Daddy’s girl’s papers & was terrified of teaching Momma’s Boy.  So I was very excited to hear others give advice on writing at our Curriculum Show & Tell. 

Here are my notes:

*Vocabulary  – when you are out in the world what is the first thing people notice? – your speech – your vocabulary!  Not your spelling.  Build colorful speech.

Suggested Curriculum:  Wordly Wise

*Grammar – learn grammar to write. 

• Analytical Grammar
• First Language Lessons (I absolutely LOVE this curriculum!!)
• Shurley Grammar

*Reading = creativity

Develop a passion for writing by:

• Creative writing first
• Limit corrections
• Encourage self-correcting

Copywork, Narration, Dictation are very important in developing a good writer.

Recommended Writing Curriculum:

• Write Shop
• Writing With Ease
• Institute For Writing In Excellence

What are you favorite writing tools & curriculum?

Homeschooling a High Schooler - YIKES

I was only 17 when I learned that I was going to be a momma for the first time.  Luckily, I graduated from high school before Momma’s Boy’s arrival.  I was so smitten with that boy, I don’t think I could have ever left him all day to return to school.  Leaving him at 6 weeks old (with my mom) to begin college was extremely hard.  I was so blessed to have the support of my family & a college schedule that didn’t require me to be gone all day.  I just can’t imagine.

That is why I feel totally blessed to be able to pay it forward . . .  Heidi, my “helper”, quite school & got married shortly after becoming a new mommy her freshman year.  She is one of the best little mommy’s I have ever met!  After staying home with her baby for a year, she has made the I  the decision to high school at home!  After a long discussion & lot’s of prayers I agreed to help her!  So I am officially “tutoring” a high schooler.  I can not express how proud of her I am & how grateful I am to be apart of this journey with her.  I pray that God helps me be what she needs & that I am only able to encourage her & help her achieve this goal.

So, what HIGH SCHOOL curriculum are we using you ask?  Over the summer we plan to gradually work into a full time work load, but to start with we are using Notgrass curriculum for American History, Literature, & Bible.  I actually found this curriculum on one of my readers blogs (I can’t remember which – sorry!) & knew right away that it would be the perfect fit for us.  I am very pleased with the format & how ease to use it is, not to mention how I love that it ties rich literature in with History & Bible!!

Please pray that I may glorify God in my schooling with Heidi & pray for her to have the confidence & discipline she needs to succeed in finishing her education. 

Mother Goose

If you didn’t catch it in previous posts, I recently co-hosted a “Show & Tell Curriculum” Day for homeschool mom’s in our area. One of my good friends shared about Mother Goose Curriculum & I wanted to pass the information on . . . ‘cause I’m cool like that. I am considering using this curriculum with my Lil’ Buckaroo next year – not that I’ve thought that far ahead or anything :)

ANYWAY, as the Mother Goose Time website explains, “it is a preschool curriculum designed for 2.5 to 5 year olds that weaves together art projects, music, storytelling, math games and science experiments around a monthly theme.”

Image from the Mother Goose Times Website.

Each month a box is delivered with a lesson plan book along with ALL needed materials. Everything you will need is included! You can order one month at a time or for a discount up to 2 years in advance. Click HERE to see the monthly themes. Be sure to click on at least a couple themes to discover the topics covered in that theme.

Mother Goose Curriculum seems to be a perfect preschool curriculum that ties in all the preschool “work” with fun themes to discover a long the way. - So much easier than trying to blend 2 different curriculums together. It does seem to be on the more expensive side of preschool curriculum; however, keep in mine that it come to you ready to go. You will receive 1 starter kit each year, 1 teacher tool bag each month, as well as a day bag each day for your child. As my friend, Beth, pointed out it was Time vs. Money. If your time is worth more than your money & you are looking for a fun, well organized & completely put together preschool curriculum, you should definitely consider Mother Goose Curriculum.