The School in the Barn

On my mind this week.....

2010-06-18T03:25:00.000-07:00

Several issues to blog about....

When you find out the house you're building is in the proposed path of an interstate, sure does remind you this world is not our home. A follow-up on that situation is that it probably won't happen for at least 10 years.

Why do some people think they can highjack someone's else's parenting style within a just a few minutes of meeting? One of our children, our preschooler, takes a little time to warm up to new situations, especially when it's loud or around people he doesn't know well, so I have made the decision that I'm here for him and will stay near him until he feels comfortable. I don't hover, but he knows that his mama is there. When he is comfortable, he walks away from me, but I don't force it. And it works. Rather than clinging to my leg and crying as I pry him off, which is humiliating for both of us, he just walks away of his own accord when he feels comfortable. This week, I had someone I'd just met try to manipulate both me and him into forcing him to adjust before he was ready, and it didn't work, and I was mainly irritated that they felt comfortable taking that on barely knowing him or me. Why are we so intent on our kids being independent of us from the beginning? I look back, and a large part of my self-esteem as a child came from the assurance that my parents not only loved me but really were there for me and liked being around me. That also had a huge bearing on my ability to keep peer attitudes in perspective later on as well. Childhood should be the most secure-feeling time in our life. Someday, my little guy will be a very independent, secure young man, and he will know his mama and daddy recognized and did their best to meet his needs and be there for him, and that will have a huge bearing on our relationship later on.

Also, how my eyes become accustomed to clutter! This week has been about decluttering this barn we live in! I am embarrassed as I look at it with cleaning eyes and see piles I've just gotten used to being there. No more! I think I have cleared out a room of junk this week! How is that like my heart, my mind? Are there piles I just don't see because I'm used to them? Do I not pay attention to the Holy Spirit pointing out areas of my life that are junk, that are keeping my heart from being a clean place of residence? Junk is less serious word than sin, isn't it? When Mama would ask me if my room was clean when I was little, I would sometimes answer her that is was clean "physically, but not spiritually", meaning it looked clean, but the closet was a danger zone. As I clean my house physically this week, I'm seeing an opportunity for real spiritual cleaning, as well. The cleaning out of petty attitudes, of laziness, of self-righteousness, of making excuses, and of selfishness, to name a few. And just as I've got my arsenal of cleaning products to shine and sanitize our home, I have God's grace through Jesus, His Holy Spirit within me, and His Word to cleanse, renew, instruct, and encourage my heart.

What about the Lobster Network?

2010-05-30T12:04:00.000-07:00

As a member of the TOS Crew, I've had the opportunity to look at the Lobster Network online. This is a free online service that helps you get the word out to others of items you may have for sale or to let friends know of items you are willing to lend. It then has applications to help you track the items you have lent as well.

You can maintain an inventory of multiple items, along with photos and descriptions of your items. According to the Lobster Network site, they use industry standard security procedures as well, collect a minimum amount of personally identifying information, and do not collect your physical address. They are connected with Amazon Web Services, and we've all heard of and most of us have purchased items through Amazon.

Having said all that, I haven't actually bought, sold, borrowed, or lent anything through Lobster Network. I have explored the website, though. At this point, I don't have a need for this service, but I am not in any way criticizing it. I can see potential for our family's use of it, just not at this time. One thing I do want to point out about its search feature--you can filter your searches to include items up for sale, to be borrowed, wanted, or items for free.

I can see how this could be an appealing option for homeschoolers, since, for the most part, we're always on the lookout for good deals and often have items we could be a blessing to others with by sharing or passing on as a good deal.

As always, use wise internet safety tips, especially since this can concern personal belongings. There is a very helpful, informative video on the Lobster Network site that goes into more detail about how to set up an account and get the most out of what it has to offer. You can learn more at the Lobster Network home page or by clicking here to check out what other TOS Crew members have to say.

By the way, this is my last review as a member of the TOS Crew. I hope my reviews have been helpful to anyone who has read them. From this point on, I want to steer more in the direction I've wanted to go for a while but didn't have time, more into the nitty gritty of homeschooling, the resources we use, the freebies I find, the thoughts and strategies that bring success, and the issues that homeschooling families address as we go against the grain. I want to keep it positive and real. So, until the next post, I hope your days are full and blessed!

Looking at Ideal Curriculum's monthly kit.....

2010-05-14T20:45:00.001-07:00

As a member of the TOS Crew, I was given the month 1 preschool kit from Ideal Curriculum. This is a set of lesson plans, printable books, workbooks, sequencing cards, and songs which all correspond to the theme for the month. There are nine months in all, and this one is month 1. In this case, the theme is transportation, so all the different components work around some aspect of transportation. Before I tell more about this, let me say I was somewhat skeptical until I really looked at the material. The cost is $30 for the download version, which is what I have, or $55 for the print version, with an extra $7.50 per additional child. After getting to know the materials, though, I believe this is a good product, one that would benefit the preschooler in a homeschool. I didn't see the fluff I've come to expect when I look at curriculum packages, but rather skills-targeting lessons and activities and printables which take on multiple avenues of learning. In fact, as you'll see on the ordering page of their site, you can actually save by ordering sets that contain multiple months.

For someone looking to buy a preschool curriculum, this one encompasses pre-reading skills, writing skills, math skills, science skills, and plenty of music and games, as well. The download version came with files of lesson plans, literacy assessments, student workbooks, and sequencing cards. The books have high quality illustrations and are both informative and age/level appropriate. The lesson plans are clearly and thoroughly written. I was very impressed with the student workbook, which had practice in areas that preschoolers actually need practice in, such as drawing straight and curved lines, concepts of print, and listening. And the music files contain songs that are both educational and entertaining for that preschool age, reinforcing skills across the curriculum spectrum. The songs are simple, but reinforce as well as foster the use of the kids' imaginations.

Especially for someone new to the idea of homeschooling or someone who just isn't sure where to start, Ideal Curriculum provides the bulk of what you need to get off to a great start in the next school year. And considering what you get, I think this downloadable version is a good value, too. To learn more, go to the Ideal Curriculum website. You can also find out more about this product by checking out what other members of the TOS Crew have to say. In fact, in the month of May, Ideal Curriculum is offering TOS Homeschool Crew followers a 10% discount on their first purchase. Be sure to use the code welovekids .

Beeyoutiful Berry Well elderberry syrup....

2010-05-10T20:08:00.000-07:00

As a member of the TOS Crew, I have had the opportunity to try out the Berry Well syrup from BeeYoutiful. According to the website, this syrup is intended to boost the immune system, with ingredients to help fight against the flu, bacteria, viruses, and even to help prevent cancer with the inclusion of raw apple cider vinegar which is believed to increase the body's alkilinity. Now, as with any supplement or natural remedy, this can't be proven, but the ingredients in this syrup are believed by many to have these positive qualities. Just what is in Berry Well?

organic purple elderberries

raw honey

bee propolis

organic echinacea root extract

raw apple cider vinegar

2% pure grain alcohol

How does it taste? Okay, it's a little tart at first. It has a strong fruity, vinegar taste. Now, there is a warning not to give this to children under 1, due to the presence of the alcohol, and I would assume the same to be true of nursing mothers. If you are nursing or pregnant and interested in this product, please check with your doctor first. I am very sensitive to the presence of alcohol in medicines, but I felt just the tiniest bit relaxed after taking one tablespoon of this. In fact, I never took more than that in one day.

That does lead to a concern--the dosage. It does say on the website that it can be taken every three hours. I know in my own case that would quickly begin to compromise my ability to function at 100% due to the alcohol in it. So, again, I highly recomment talking to your doctor before purchasing this.

Does it work? Based on my use of this syrup, I just can't say. My husband and I are kinda big into healthy stuff and natural supplements anyway, so I already was sold on a lot of the positive properties of the ingredients in Berry Well.

How much does it cost? For 8 oz. it is $18.00. To learn more about this product, Berry Well, and its composition, and the other products that Beeyoutiful offers, you can go to their website at http://www.beeyoutiful.com/ . You can also read what other TOS Crew members have to say here.

Find teaching resources around the globe with Lesson Planet....

2010-04-28T20:58:00.000-07:00

As a member of the TOS Crew, I have had the opportunity to try out Lesson Planet, an internet search engine for teachers. According to the website, it gives teachers access to over 225,000 lesson plans, worksheets, and teaching ideas. These resources come from all over the web, and the teacher reviewers rate them with a star system. Teachers can access printables and plans in a variety of subjects--

art and music

health and nutrition

geography

research

social studies

education

language arts

math

science and technology

When searching for resources, you can filter your search by not only subject, but also by type of resource (and even more detailed filters pertaining to types of questions), grade level, and teacher reviewer rating. Each resource listed in a search has a short description to give you a heads up about what it really is. I found the grade level filter particularly helpful as I searched for printables to go into our maps unit. I've also used this site to seek out resources that fit the dinosaurs and rocks and minerals research projects our two oldest are working on this month. Some of the sites Lesson Planet pulled up for me, I'd never have found or thought of on my own and didn't recall seeing them in my own searches. I did find a few duplicate resources, but that wasted all of about ten seconds. You can also search for information on your state's educational standards. However, when I did this, the list of standards for my state was incomplete.

In addition to providing an internet search engine for teachers, Lesson Planet also provides tools for subscribers to help them create their own web sites, lessons, and email newsletters. You can also access a calendar that gives ideas for learning experiences based on events that are significant for each day and find articles to help in lesson planning.

The cost is $39.95 annually, which comes to about 11 cents a day. You can sign up for a free 10-day trial on the website. Why not check it out and see if it's right for you? The site has a very informative FAQ section as well, which provides answers to questions about the resources you can access as well as membership guidelines and fees. You can also click here to find out what other Crew members had to say.

Super Star Speech: Speech Therapy Made Simple!

2010-04-24T01:43:00.000-07:00

As a member of the TOS Crew, I received Super Star Speech: Speech Therapy Made Simple! to review. I'll be honest....I was quite skeptical about the nature and contents until I received this resource. Deborah Lott, the developer, doesn't make grandiose promises or take on issues that truly need a professional. This book is simply strategies and guidance for a workable at-home plan to tackle very minor speech issues. And it is very simple to read and implement. And at a price of only $12.95 for the ebook version, it's not a huge investment.

Super Star Speech includes instructions for a pre-program articulation test, directions on how to teach and practice each sound, 240 practice cards, and a number of reproducible practice materials. It is not meant to be used in treating severe speech problems, but rather minor issues in a child's speech development. And I can say that the strategies we have applied around here have been very simple for me to explain and demonstrate, thanks to the easy-to-understand language used in the program.

On the website

http://www.superstarspeech.com/speech-therapy-materials.html you can actually look at some sample pages as well, including the table of contents, specific sound instructions page for p/b, sample speech picture cards, and a printable game. The ebook version is 74 pages. I was, before I took the time to get familiar with it, very unsure of whether this was something I could do, but the instructions are so simple, and Deborah truly lays it all out very plainly and in a very organized manner.

The strategies are easy to understand and systematic to implement for those of us who are not speech pathologists, and she even provides the forms for lesson plans and record keeping, as well as instruction for how to do this very simply. Another aspect of Super Star Speech I really like is that the games and resources within it are reproducible, so they can be used with more than one child. These reproducibles are engaging and appropriate for either boy or girl.

If your child's speech development has hit some minor snags, and you're ready to learn what you can do to get past it, check out Super Star Speech: Speech Therapy Made Simple. This is one product I feel sets realistic goals and then goes on to give parents real information and resources to reach those goals. You can learn more at http://www.superstarspeech.com/speech-therapy-materials.html, and you can also check out what the other TOS Crew members had to say here.

Include the little ones with Time4Learning!

2010-04-14T11:34:00.000-07:00

As a member of the TOS Crew, my 4-year-old and I have had the opportunity to review the Time4Learning website and its many offerings for preschoolers. Let me say first of all how refreshing my dealings with their customer service representatives have been! I was able to get fast responses to my emails and even talked to the same person I'd emailed! I was very impressed with the graciousness and attention to helping me as the customer that was displayed as my questions were taken care of.

What is Time4Learning? To call it a website seems an understatement. It is a site that has a variety of components to stimulate learning in a fun and safe way, simple enough that my 4-year-old can navigate semi-independently. We are enrolled in the preschool section, so what we found were a collection of topics that each have a short song/video and correlating games, art, and writing activities. There are matching games, memory games, pre-reading and counting/early math skills games, just to give you an idea. Different topics include, but are not limited to:

human body

nature

pets

measuring

making music

rhyme time

numbers

weather

on the farm

There are two levels within the preschool age category, so it can serve both those little ones just starting out on their educational adventure as well as those who are practically ready for kindergarten. I found that my four-year-old benefited from a mix of both, and it was as easy as clicking a link on the side to go back and forth.

Something else kinda cool is the "playground" feature. What it is is a page with educational games, puzzles, and activities, and external links, like to pbskids.org . I like this because I can let him choose where he'd like to go for his "recess" and feel confident it will be to a safe site, and he likes to be the boss for a little bit, too. You cannot be careful enough these days, it seems, so I really appreciate this feature. I was familiar with some of these links, but not all, so I had something to learn here, too. This playground feature is a timed one, also, which I like because it makes it more of a special deal to get to play those games. By the way, as a parent, I can set up how long his lesson and playground times should be.

And the lesson plans....this is where it gets good to me. This site has tons of lesson plans, from pre-K through 8th. Each lesson has the learning objectives, activities, and resources it covers or includes in the scope and sequence parents can access.

While we have gotten to experience the preschool level of Time4Learning, there are features for both elementary and middle school students as well. In fact, according to their site, some homeschoolers use Time4Learning as the core of their curriculum. Time4Learning has built-in progress reporting features, too, which can be a huge time-saver for parents. I will say, though, that the preschool version of this is in progress. On the FAQ page on their site, there is an explanation of what subjects and objectives are covered for different levels. In fact, the FAQ page really explains a lot about what all this site can be for students and how parents can make the most of it, too. What is the cost? $19.95 for the first child and $14.95 for each additional child monthly. There are no other costs to use this site. If you're curious about how it works, you can access demo lessons from their site. Okay, here's my take on the cost. If you are like me and thoroughly enjoy the challenge of staying up all night to find internet games and activities that align with your lesson plans, the price may give you pause. Otherwise, you are really paying for someone else to do the hard work here in providing a meaningful educational experience for your students on the computer. You just will have to check out their demos and the rest of the site to decide whether the cost is justified in light of what your kids will get from it.

You can check out what other TOS Crew members have to say here. Be sure to head on over to the Time4Learning site to see for yourself, too!

A world of math practice with Math Galaxy!

2010-04-06T13:02:00.000-07:00

As a member of the TOS Crew, I have had the opportunity to review two products from Math Galaxy, the Math Galaxy Fraction Riddles ebook and the Math Galaxy Whole Numbers Riddles ebook. Let me just say that what I like about both of these is that they combine straightforward practice in essential math skills with a touch of fun. What is it about riddles that propel kids through a worksheet they otherwise would whine and dawdle about?

I chose the ebook format, which is handy because I've got it and can print off what I need when I need it. The price, by the way, of each of these is $12.95. The Whole Numbers Riddles ebook contains 130 riddle worksheets, while the Fraction Riddles ebook has 215 riddle worksheets. They are in color, which is a nice touch, and include the answer keys, of course. Many paper practice books cost more and then you can only use them once. With these, I can reuse them with each child. I like that.

I taught fourth grade for several years, and now as a homeschooling mom, one of my biggest goals is to build a strong foundation in the basics. I am all about lots of math practice. The riddle worksheets in these ebooks do just that. They are full of just good, solid practice sheets. I think these are products that would complement just about any math curriculum. In fact, I don't know of any curriculum that actually couldn't benefit from some additional practice.

Even my younger daughter, who isn't as interested in math as her sister, gets engaged by a riddle. She loves to solve them, so she will focus on the problems and work diligently until she has the answer.

I can truly recommend these ebooks. To find out more about these and the other ebooks and software downloads available through Math Galaxy, click here. You can actually access a lot of freebies, too, which is always cool! To see a list of the products you can order, click on the "order" icon at the top. My impression of this company is that they are out to provide quality products and to listen to what customers have to say about them and what they offer. You can also check out the reviews of other TOS Crew members here.

Check out this springtime unit!

2010-04-01T00:32:00.000-07:00

We just finished a great weather unit, capped off by a visit to the local news station, and now we're moving on to a study of springtime. Each year, we do this, but we can take our study a little deeper each year as the kids get older. We spent Monday's science time reviewing just what causes the seasons and watched some pretty neat videos online. I'll try to remember to post the links for them later. Then, on Tuesday, we began a unit available online through http://www.nappc.org/curriculum/ . It's called "Nature's Partners: Pollinators, Plants, and You" and is made up of six modules. So far, we have done modules 1 and 2, and it hits all the learning types! It includes background information and reproducibles, too! One word of caution--there is some hint of an evolutionary slant, but you don't have to share that. It's just as easy to point out, instead of evolution, how God created the plants and pollinators to work together in the pollination process.

This is a free curriculum and really gets brains in gear as kids observe, make models, process data, and learn tons about the importance of those tiny beings we call pollinators. Check it out!

What Am I?.....More from All About Spelling

2010-03-31T23:43:00.001-07:00

As a member of the TOS Crew, I have had the opportunity to review the set-to-be-released-today....... What Am I? A Collection of Short Stories, from the folks at All About Spelling. This is the followup to The Beehive Reader Vol. 1 and will probably sell for the same, $19.95, through the All About Spelling website. As of the time I'm writing this review, it's not on the site, yet, though.

What Am I? was written to correlate with All About Spelling, Level 2, steps 1-14. For anyone using this program, that's very helpful in streamlining your curriculum across the language arts spectrum. It's a collection of ten short stories, ranging from 10-18 pages each. It's a hardbound book, with black and white illustrations on practically every page. The stories deal with surprises and friendship and nature and animals, and there are poetry selections included.

If you plan to use the All About Spelling program, you may want to check this book out. It's always nice to be able to integrate concepts through multiple subject areas, but I am concerned about the price. $20 is not very economical for just one reader with ten stories in it. My daughter/assistant in reviewing these books is very visual, and the lack of color in this book is a drawback. Overall, I am not convinced concerning the literary quality of the stories or the significance and quality of the illustrations. Some of the stories, such as "Champ", which relates the relationship of a young girl and her horse, are fairly rich in detail and story elements, while others, like "An Elf in the Alps" just seem like nonsensical fluff. Some of the illustrations are beautiful and enhance the stories, but others seem rather like the work of a hurried teenager.

Like I said, check it out for yourself. Everyone has different reading preferences. To learn more, you can check out what other TOS Crew members have to say here.

Super Star Speech games to build interest and reinforce learning!

2010-03-31T22:53:00.000-07:00

As a member of the TOS Crew, I have had the opportunity to review three games from Deborah M. Lott, creator of the Super Star Speech home speech therapy program. I chose "All About Animals", "The Insect Game", and "Covering the Continents". Each of these is marketed through CurrClick and priced on sale at $2.80 just now. Okay, I think these are all three a tremendously good deal!

The goal of "All About Animals" is to aid young students, K-5, according to the product description, in learning the defining characteristics of different animal groups. While younger students can use picture cards, there are fact cards for older students to read. And there are a good number of these fact cards.

As you would guess, "The Insect Game" is all about the characteristics of insect life. Students answer questions and collect game pieces. The first to get all the pieces needed wins. This game is suggested for grades 2-6.

The goal of "Covering the Continents" is more than just identifying the continents' locations--it's about getting to know the basics about each one. This one gets a little more exciting with chances to own continents. This is suggested for ages 6-10, but I think older students could get into it, too.

I was impressed with the number of game cards in each game, reflecting the amount of information presented and reviewed. The games are printable, and I would recommend laminating them for longevity. Also, the directions are very simple to understand, and I think that once they've played a time or two, these are games the kids can play independently. You can actually look at sample pages for each game by clicking on the links for each game on the CurrClick site or by clicking on the names of the games that are highlighted above.

Educational games are not cheap online or in local stores, but Mrs. Lott offers a large variety of games, most of which sell for less than $3.00! That's hard to beat, especially when they contain clear directions, colorful boards, and can be modified to fit the age of the students playing. Check out the games I've described above, as well as all the other products Mrs. Lott offers on the CurrClick site by clicking here. You can also see what other Crew members have to say here.

Seasons of Faith audio books from CBH Ministries

2010-03-31T22:28:00.000-07:00

As a member of the TOS Crew, I received four titles from the Seasons of Faith series from CBH Ministries: Race With Midnight, Seventy Times Seven, You Can't Come In, and Braving the Storm. The intent of each title is to instill in kids the reality of God's care and His desire for us to know Him follow His Way and share His Word. While I am very impressed with the quality and price and overall message of these books, that everyone needs Jesus and His teachings are best, I cannot recommend them because I do not agree with the way the plan of salvation is presented. I know that judgment is left to God alone and we are totally saved by his grace and no merit of our own, but it troubles me that baptism is totally omitted in these books. This isn't meant to be a sermon at all, but I need to share my reason for concern. This is honestly the most frustrating review I've written because these books do teach kids that they can follow Christ's teachings in their lives and that they are not too young to share the Gospel. These are soft-cover illustrated books, each with a read-along cd. For further information, please go their website at http://www.cbhministries.org/seasons_of_faith.php.

Nurture their artistic skills with Artistic Pursuits....

2010-03-24T04:58:00.000-07:00

As a member of the TOS Crew, I have had the opportunity to review An Introduction to the Visual Arts, the Grades K-3 Book One from Artistic Pursuits. This, in my opinion, is a quality art curriculum for the lower elementary grades. It's made up of 32 lessons, which we are pacing at one a week. So, we basically have a year-long art curriculum when taken at that pace. An Introduction to the Visual Arts is broken into three sections, What Artists Do, What Artists See, and Where We Find Art. Each section provides insight into the mindset and habits of an artist without squelching the child's natural skills or interest. There are numerous examples of the masters' works throughout the book, as well as those of other kids. I like that because I want the kids to have high goals and be exposed to those works which were the result of years of hard work, but I also want to stress that what they do now is art and worthy of being proud of, too.

Each lesson encourages the students to really open their eyes and other senses to elements of art around them. For example, in lesson 1, they are encouraged to take a walk, just observing the detail all around. When I did this with my kids, I was amazed how much more they then included in their art. And the lessons really do teach good art practices, as well, such as how to properly use the supplies called for in the lessons.

Probably my favorite thing about this course is the variety of art supplies the students get to use. I comparison shopped and was able to get everything we needed for just over $30 online. As we go through this course, my kids will get to work with sketch pencils, oil pastels, soft pastels, watercolor crayons, and clay, as well as a variety of papers and surfaces.

Each lesson takes about 10 minutes to present, and you would want to allow up to an hour for the students to create. I like that I can use this same book for all 3 of my kids, ranging in age from pre-k to second grade. What we do is focus on the same lesson for a week, but each day I add a little twist to it to keep it fresh for them.

I really encourage you to head over to the Artistic Pursuits website to check out the sample pages for this book here. The cost for this book is $42.95, and I think this one is worth it. This is way more than what I have seen in elementary art books in terms of really teaching techniques and how to use elements of arts. It really provides a framework in which they can practice correct methods of using media, discover the elements of art all around, and practice expressing their own imaginations and emotions through art. I know I am learning right along with the kids in our house!

Artistic Pursuits offers several other products you may want to check out, as well. Their home page is http://www.artisticpursuits.com/index.html. From there, you can see what else they offer.

The Family Mint....encouraging financial responsibility from youth!

2010-03-09T22:21:00.000-08:00

Okay, this is free, people! I love that! Yes, I am reviewing the Family Mint as part of the TOS Crew, but it's free for everyone!

What is The Family Mint (and don't we all wish we had the real thing?)?

It's a website that allows registered users to set up virtual family banks. No actual funds are transmitted at any time. It simply allows "bankers" to record financial transactions that take place. The banker can set up accounts for each family member and can record deposits, transfers, and withdrawals. Interest levels can even be adjusted! Financial goals can be set and tracked by individual account holders. Money can be distributed into multiple accounts based on customizeable percentages. You can read more about these and more features on their site by clicking here.

Okay, growing up, we could set a financial goal, fill up the glass Snoopy (in my case) or piggy bank, and then break it open and count the contents, hoping we had enough to reach our goal and buy a new bank. This is so beyond that! Kids can learn how the banking system really works. They can track their deposits and withdrawals and learn to keep a budget. They can see on the screen when a goal has been reached or when deposits they've made have been verified.

Y'all, this is more than likely the closest I'll ever be to being a banker, setting up these virtual accounts, but I still took that seriously. One concern I had was privacy. No, we're not dealing in big bucks here, but do I want my kids' financial business online, on a site that isn't a real bank? I figure I'm not alone in being extra careful about my kids and online privacy issues (we were victims of id theft a few years ago, so I'm a little paranoid about it), so I wanted to share what I thought of to counter this concern. I didn't use the kids' real names. Wow, you're thinking--I know. No, seriously, the closest you come to giving your address is your zip code, but it does ask for birthdays, so using the screen names added an extra level of security, in my opinion. Having said that, I encourage you to check the Family Mint security information on their site here. I'm still being careful, but I am impressed.

What age is this for? Well, I would suggest at least school age, up. Reading and basic number skills are needed to navigate the site, log in, and enter and understand transaction information.

In this age, financial responsibility is such an undertaught skill, for the most part. This is one tool to help those of us trying to buck that trend. I can see how The Family Mint can help parents instill the attributes of financial discipline and analysis from an early age through experience and practice. In order to check it out, click here. There are videos and forums to help you get started, as well.

You can read what other TOS Crew members think here, too.

The Critical Thinking Co. Language Smarts C....unlocking some brain power!

2010-03-09T21:35:00.000-08:00

As part of the TOS Crew, I received the Language Smarts C student book from The Critical Thinking Co. My girls and I love this workbook! It is 314 pages of quality critical thinking skills material for the second grade level. Skills that are covered include:

following and writing directions

mnemonics

palindromes

rhymes and riddles

correct word usage, such as good/well

subject/verb agreement

synonyms and antonyms

homonyms

homographs

root words, suffixes, and prefixes

categorizing

literary elements

letter writing

..... and much more!

While the introduction states that this book can be used as the core of a language arts curriculum, I found it more to our needs to use it as a supplement. Actually, my girls complete the activities as a team, allowing them to learn from one another and practice verbalization and listening as they cooperate to complete each activity page.

So far, what I have observed from the activities in this book is that they are geared toward the higher level thinking skills, rather that simply recalling facts and information. Allow me to quote from the Teaching Suggestions section (p. v)....

"The activities require students to analyze a variety of diagrams and apply problem solving skills. Targeted thinking skills include convergent and divergent thinking as well as inductive and deductive reasoning. Students will learn to recognize, analyze, and sythesize information."

While most language arts curriculums I have had the opportunity to use do include critical thinking sections, they are normally small, scattered sections. Language Smarts C provides enough activities to do at least one and more often more each day of the school year.

My girls are first and second graders, and I have honestly been surprised how they remind me when it's time to do "critical thinking" as we refer to these activity pages. They enjoy the challenge of each activity, and I am very impressed by the variety of activities and the quality presented in this book. The pages are glossy and colorful, yet they still copy well in black and white, too. We normally open up our Language Smarts C at the conclusion of our regular reading and language arts class time. The activities are challenging, but not frustratingly so. They are normally able to complete each one with minimal assistance from me. However, I will say this--I firmly believe that it is imperative that we model and verbalize critical thinking skills, so I don't simply check their answers. I want to make sure they understand the logic behind what they're doing. I can see the brain exercises this book is guiding them through, but they just consider this a treat before recess!

Something else that I really, really appreciate is that it's okay for me to make copies to use with them! Not many companies allow that these days.
What's the cost? This 320-page, reproducible workbook is $39.99. Seems like a lot, I know, but consider this. In my case, I have 3 kids, which means that figures out to about $13.34 a child since I can make copies. You can actually see sample pages when you click here for the sample pages, or here, which is a link from the Language Smarts C page to the answer key pages. This product is one of a series, and you can check out the others here, as well.

The Critical Thinking Co. offers other products you might be interested in as well. You can check out a number of freebies on their site, too.

Enhance your projects with Graphics Toolbox....

2010-03-04T00:48:00.000-08:00

As a member of the TOS Crew, I have had the past month to experiment with Graphics Toolbox, a graphics editting software that allows ordinary individuals to create some pretty neat projects. Over the last seven or eight years, I've used a couple of different graphics softwares, one a free download and one that was part of our old computer's suite of programs. And I have made some pretty neat stuff, so I came at this with high expectations. So, as I approached Graphics Toolbox, I was most interested in just how much I would actually be able to do, how easy it would be, and what I could do with it. The creator of this product was kind enough to provide some instructional sessions and videos for those of us learning to use Graphics Toolbox, and it was after I watched one of those videos that I finally got the hang of it.

Okay, if you're like me, before you buy anything, you want to know just what it will do for you and if it's worth the price. You see, I have been very pleased with the capabilities of the free software I've been using for several years now, but I know it has limitations. So, I kept the GT (Graphics Toolbox) manual pulled up while I learned just what GT had to offer me. Would it be as easy to learn? No, it was not nearly as easy to learn. I have become conditioned to Windows and its drop-down menus, and I had to get used to the format and functionality of GT. Now, once I played around with it a while, I got used to the icons and how they are the key to using this program, so that's not a big deal to me.

Something else was ease of use compared to what I had been using.....once I got used to the format of GT, then it was almost as easy to use as the software I'm accustomed to. Honestly, for those of us used to the world of right-clicking and dragging and dropping, it felt very stilted to use initially, like everything took two or three steps longer than it should. But, as I became more familiar with it, I realized it has more capabilities than what I was using. I can control elements of my projects with, I think, a greater deal of precision. Now, if what you want doesn't require a lot of pixel-by-pixel precision, there are other programs out there that will get the job done for less money. But this one will let you get really precise with color and position and size. I will say, though, that I found the text menu on my older program has more flexibility about rotation and sizing.

Graphics Toolbox also comes with many graphics you can use in your projects, from a small amount of layout templates to a fairly large collection of computer generated illustrations of objects. Below you can see two of my projects. One is a birthday invitation, minus the words, of course, and the other is a sample scrapbook page. I used one of the built in templates for the invitation, and used the frame subcommand to wrap a ribbon effect around my scrapbook page. Here's how precise GT will let you get. I was even able to play around with the individual colors in the ribbon frame. Which reminds me to tell you that you can set up your own color cards within the color card icons, so you can have all your colors organized by your own system.

Okay, here is my bottom line on Graphics Toolbox. It's $149, but they offer a free 30-day trial period. Try it out and see if it fits your needs. If it doesn't, you're not out anything. If you're seriously looking for graphics software, you need to check out several products, anyway, to know what they offer so you can make a wise decision before you buy. So, no, I can't say, go get your wallet and buy it right now, but I can say it is a software that does offer a lot of graphics capability to non-professionals, IF you are willing to read the instructions and the videos and practice. And I am excited about using it to create projects here at home and for our homeschool resource group. I also think this is a product that will work well for me in conjunction with my old one that I'm used to, and I am fairly sure I should be able to use it with additional templates I can find free online.

You need to check other reviews online, too, from other TOS Crew members and other creditable sources online.

The Beehive Reader 1, for the practically independent reader...

2010-02-17T13:19:00.000-08:00

My first grader and I have been reviewing the Beehive Reader 1, a product from Takeaway Press that I'm reviewing as a member of the TOS Crew. Our homeschool is very eclectic in nature, and I have become familiar with the reading products from several companies. What is the Beehive Reader 1?

Well, it's a reader for those students who are just practically to the point of being able to read on their own. Or you could even use it as part of a guided reading experience for you and your child. It's a hardback book, but the quality of the inside pages is somewhat inferior. Each page has about 1-2 phrases or sentences with a large illustration in black and white. The illustration is very helpful for those young readers who benefit from the nonverbal clues an illustration can provide. There are ten stories, from about 10-20 pages apiece. My first grader can easily read one story in a sitting, and she liked the illustrations. The stories are just sweet, cute little stories about children and animals and silly fantasies. The language is simple and uncluttered. One benefit to this reader is that it correlates to the All About Spelling Level 1 program. It's always nice to have components of your homeschool that work together and reinforce each other.

While I do like this product, the price is $19.95. That seems a little much to me for what you get. This is a book that we can go all the way through in a little over a week. I do encourage you to go to the beehive readers website at http://www.beehivereaders.com/ to find out more for yourself, though. Check out the reviews of other TOS Crew members here, too!

Math Mammoth--reinforcing foundational math skills at an affordable price...

2010-02-08T21:22:00.000-08:00

As a member of the TOS Crew, I have had the opportunity to review a few of the products offered from Math Mammoth. I chose the Addition 1 workbook for first grade, Measuring 1 workbook for elementary, and the Subtraction 1 for elementary.

Let me right from the start, I think these are an excellent value. I can't always say that, so it's nice to find a product that lines up with how much I would actually like to pay for it. These are very affordably priced. The Addition 1 download is just $3.75, the Subtraction 1 is $3.50, and the Measuring 1 is $4.50. You can purchase print versions, but the downloads are a much better deal, in my opinion. At approximately 65-80 pages apiece, the cost of paper and ink isn't that much, but you get quality practice material. I've noticed with some other practice materials from other companies that just as many pages are taken up by answer keys as by the actual practice material, and that irks me, but with the workbooks I've reviewed from Math Mammoth I appreciate that the keys are condensed, even though they do contain some supplemental and helpful information. That means more of the total number of pages are actually meant to be used by the student.

I really like the progression of the work as well. Maria Miller, the creator of the Math Mammoth products, starts at square one in the Addition 1 and Subtraction 1 workbooks, and progresses at a logical pace for young elementary students. I've worked with many different types of learners, and math is definitely a subject that needs multiple approaches for lots of kids. That's what these practice pages can help provide. And that's what early math learners need. While they work through different sets of exercises that incorporate lots of visualization of the concepts to practice basic addition and subtraction skills, that also helps them to memorize those addition and subtraction facts. Mrs. Miller uses several methods to help students understand what they're doing and to help make the information learned stick. You can see this in the sample pages. She also provides ideas for other more 3-dimensional learning activities, as well. And for those parents who are actually as uneasy about math as their kids, Mrs. Miller has you in mind. The lesson sections are written simply and abundantly illustrated.

The Measuring 1 workbook contains exercises dealing with all manner of measurements that early elementary students should become familiar and proficient with, including:

customary and metric length measurements

customary and metric weight/mass measurements

measuring volume

proficiency in using a ruler

measurements and geometric figures

measuring temperature

I really like how Mrs. Miller starts at the beginning, just as she does in the addition and subtraction workbooks. Beginning by leading the students in discovering the necessity of standard over nonstandard measurements, she then goes on to explain and demonstrate and provide practice in measuring using both customary and metric units. She progresses at an easy pace and includes opportunities for real world measurement and provides a number of word problem exercises throughout. You can find sample pages by clicking here and then looking to the far right.

These workbooks can be used to supplement your current curriculum, like we're doing with them, or you could use them to build your own. Mrs. Miller does actually offer a first grade math curriculum.

You can check out the Math Mammoth website here and read what other TOS Crew members have to say here. I really suggest checking out the Math Mammoth site. Mrs. Miller has a package of free worksheets to share, plus faq's about her products, and a series of placement tests to aid in choosing which products fit your students.

Zeezok Publishing....introducing great musicians

2010-01-26T22:50:00.000-08:00

As a TOS Crew member, I received Stephen Foster and His Little Dog Tray and Edward MacDowell and His Cabin In the Pines, as well as study guides for each and an accompaniment cd that goes with both products. These are elementary biographies of these composers, originally published in the 1940's. The stories behind their most well-known compositions, along with the tunes themselves are interwoven as well.

These are written at an elementary reading level, with black and white illustrations interspersed throughout. The authors polished up the stories of these two men to make them as much of role models as possible. These are not necessarily authentic biographies, but they do give children a glimpse into the lives of men who sometimes seem above we mere normal people and a little stuffy besides. The sheet music of some of their compositions are included in the books, with descriptions of the conditions in which some of them were composed.

Of course, these biographies only include what was deemed acceptable for children by 1940 standards. I normally appreciate the morality standards of that era in children's literature, but there are some issues that should be addressed with the book about Stephen Foster. We often talk about how morality has plunged in the past 50 years, but one area in which our society has actually made some positive strides is in the area of racial issues. No, we're not near where we ought to be, if you ask this Southern girl who sees and hears way too much prejudice still from people who ought to know better, but I think we've made progress. However, in 1940, it was still common to use degrading terms to describe our minorities, particularly African Americans. These terms and the accompanying attitude toward the days of slavery are found in Stephen Foster and His Little Dog Tray. No, I didn't find the most offensive word, but there are other phrases used and an attitude toward African Americans that conveys the notion that they were simpletons who reveled in the life of a slave. He grew up in that era in a home with slaves. I seriously doubt those slaves truly felt the nostalgia the authors injected into this time period. The study guide for this selection does address this issue, but glides over it as typical for that time period. At this point, as we strive to model what is good to our children in a region in which is still taken very seriously, I don't want to confuse them with introducing this attitude or the terms that are used in the book to describe the African Americans Mr. Foster knew. My conscience and the respect I have for my African American friends demanded I express that about this book.

Each book has an accompanying study guide, which includes supplementary outlines and information concerning the composer's life and works, as well as suggested discussion/comprehension questions for each chapter. I also received a cd which contains audio files of the compositions in the books, coloring sheets and other printables, and sheet music. I will say, though, that, as these are original illustrations for the books, the African Americans depicted in the coloring sheets (and I think there's only one like this) are not presented in a flattering light.

What is the cost?

The books themselves are $12.95 apiece, the study guides are $4.95 apiece, and the cd is $7.95. However, you can buy the Foster/MacDowell bundle for $35.80, which is a savings of $7.95, I believe, and includes all the above.

Zeezok has an entire series of Great Musicians, which includes Bach, Brahms, Beethoven, Chopin, Handel, Mozart, and more. You can find out more about these and other Zeezok products here. And you can check out other TOS Crew reviews for a variety of Zeezok products here.

Math Tutor DVD products.... covering a wide variety of math concepts

2010-01-26T21:59:00.000-08:00

As a TOS Crew member, I received two dvd's from MathTutorDVD.com to review, Young Minds Numbers and Counting and The Basic Math Word Problem Tutor. These are two of the numerous instructional dvd's available from mathtutordvd.com .

The Young Minds Numbers and Counting dvd focuses on counting concepts, providing vivid images and colors and appealing-to-kids photos that visualize the concept of the lower counting numbers, showing the kids what 1, 2, 3, etc. look like as classical compositions play in the background. Killing two birds with one stone, so to speak. Along with my kids, I viewed the Young Minds Numbers and Counting dvd. While my elementary girls soon wandered off to play, my 4-year-old was held by the vibrant colors and the apparent suspence of wondering which number would come next. He responded to the different images with enthusiasm and interest as the dvd progressed. And it normally takes something pretty engaging to keep him watching.

My take on this dvd in a nutshell? While I was impressed with the quality of this one, the vibrant images and the way it took plenty of time to visualize each amount, I was disappointed when I went online and checked out the price. The list price is $29.99, and the purchase price is $19.99.

We also examined The Basic Math Word Problem Tutor, which is an 8-hour course. What does it cover? The following is from the product description on the mathtutordvd.com website.

Disc 1

Section 1: Adding Whole Numbers

Section 2: Subtracting Whole Numbers

Section 3: Multiplying Whole Numbers

Section 4: Dividing Whole Numbers

Section 5: Adding Decimals

Section 6: Subtracting Decimals

Section 7: Multiplying Decimals

Section 8: Dividing Decimals

Disc 2

Section 9: Adding Fractions

Section 10: Subtracting Fractions

Section 11: Multiplying Fractions

Section 12: Dividing Fractions

Section 13: Percents, Part 1

Section 14: Percents, Part 2

Section 15: Ratio and Proportion

After viewing it, it was immediately clear that this is for at least upper level elementary students. The instructor, Jason Gibson, does present the material in a fairly clear manner, but I was concerned with the wordiness of the dvd when using it with elementary level kids. The students have got to really be able to hang with this one and pay attention to each step. Now, he does really break down each problem, guide the students through deciphering the mathematical jargon to determine what is being asked and what needs to be done, but this one really is aimed at the traditional learner in its format as Mr. Gibson explains and executes each problem with his dry erase board behind him. This one, to me, would serve a homeschooling family best as a tool for the parent who is unsure of his or her own word problem solving skills as the teacher, to help the parent become more knowledgeable as they customize this knowledge to work with their own kids. I know we are presently in the beginning stages of solving word problems around here, and I'm big on incorporating as many of the senses and avenues of learning as I can. Now, for older students who can pay attention well and just need some extra practice, this may be just the thing. You can check out video samples on the website here.

The price on this one is $26.99. Again, it does contain a lot of information, but I am concerned about the price. I suggest that you carefully consider how your kids learn before purchasing this.

MathTutorDVD.com has a large number of products. You can find out more about these and the creator Jason Gibson by visiting the MathTutorDVD.com website here. You can also read of TOS Crew members' reviews here.

Winter savings alert!

2010-01-07T16:48:00.000-08:00

This is a great deal. No, it's not the $7.95 deal they offered the end of '09, but this is so much cheaper than the cover price or regular subscription price. So, if you got a little Christmas cash in your stocking, here you go! Let me just tell you what I personally have received through my TOS subscription:

practical advice about the nitty gritty day to day of homeschooling, like how to be better organized and how to find some neat and useful freebies or almost so.
encouragement as a Christian mom and wife and reminders of Who is the Center of our school and our home.
information about curriculum and resources and where to find them.
craft ideas that are actually affordable.
motivation to be more and do more as a homeschooling family and as the teacher of our homeschool.
a web site that is full of freebies, as well as resources and products that are reasonably priced.
That's how I first learned about the TOS Crew, too!

I first subcribed last year when the cost dropped to $15, and this would be the last subscription I'd let go. So, for more information, click on the photo above to head on over to the TOS site.

KinderBach....music education for little ones...

2009-12-29T04:46:00.000-08:00

As a TOS Crew member, I received a free membership to KinderBach, an early music education program. During my free membership period, I've had access to the online video lessons as well as the printables.

Karri Gregor, the creator and founder of KinderBach, has developed a program that engages young children and makes learning connections using friendly characters, visual images, and catchy words and phrases. For those who find a more traditional music program for young students boring or dry, this is an effective alternative.

This is a year-long curriculum that covers the following goals in musical education:

music vocabulary

notes

rhythm

listening skills

music composition

........and more! These skills are taught on a level that young elementary students should be able to understand and learn. The lessons are presented in a video format. Karri takes the kids through each lesson at an easy pace, taking time to review key concepts through visualizations. Kids learn musical concepts as their imaginations are engaged in stories about a young boy named Frisco and his friends who live on the piano. The names of these friends correspond to letters of the scale, such as Dodi, for D, and so forth.

This program is geared toward upper preschool/lower elementary students with no to very little musical background knowledge or experience. And if you're a parent who's intimidated by your own lack of knowledge or experience, fear not! First, you can learn right along with the kids. Plus, Karri has a pdf parent/teacher guide, so you don't have to let on to the kids you don't already know all this!

What is needed?

either a piano or keyboard--it doesn't have to be top of the line.

either a dvd player or access to the Internet, depending on which mode you are using

access to a printer and computer to be able to take advantage of the computer activities and printables that go with the lessons

commitment

consistency

What do I like about this product?

To a large degree, it is self-paced. Parents monitor each lesson, and Karri herself points out that some kids need longer than others.

It involves multiple intelligences, including aspects that reach out to different learners and to multiple senses.

It catches the interest of young learners through the use of color images and friendly characters, which takes away a little bit of the scare for both parents and kids who haven't been exposed to music lessons.

The program has a large amount of printable resources and online activities.

The website is easy to navigate.

Karri sends out lots of newsletters, not an annoying amount, but she keeps you informed of great deals and news.

Does this take the place of formal music lessons? No, but it is an introductory program which will prepare kids for more traditional programs. However, if your kids already have a basic understanding of music theory and concepts, then I recommend moving on to a more advanced program.

What's the cost? That depends of which version is chosen.

If you pay up front for a one-year subscription to the website, the cost is $95.88, which comes out to $7.99 a month.

If a month-to-month payment method is preferred for the website subscription, the cost is $19.99.

If the dvd version is preferred, the cost is $40.45 per level when bought individually, or $112.75 for levels 1-3 or 4-6 combos or $142.45 for levels 1-3 or 4-6 and 3 songbook cd packages, the Everyday, Christmas, and Hymns songbooks. You can also just buy all 6 levels for $202.88. Each level also comes with a cd of printables.

To check out all these options and find out more about the specifics of each, click here.

You can also access free printables and even try it out for free. See what you think before buying. See if it fits your child's age and level of music knowledge.

To read reviews from other Crew members, click here.

Maestro Classics

2009-12-29T04:02:00.000-08:00

Maestro Classics is a cd series which combines story-telling of the classic style with rich orchestra accompaniment. Stephen and Bonnie Ward Simon created this series, with years of experience and a long list of qualifications in the fields of both music and children. The TOS Crew was asked to review a sample of their Maestro Classics series, and my kids and I received The Tortoise and the Hare.

The classic story is given a new touch by Mrs. Simon, while Stephen Simon provides an original musical score. Yadu, who has narrated the Stories in Music concerts at the Kennedy Center, as well as other Maestro Classic selections, shares the story is a calm but expressive voice. The cd has a running time of about 53 minutes and has an accompanying 24-page program. The program includes basic information about musical notation, instruments in an orchestra, a few activities to go along with the story, and short bios of the Simons and the narrator, Yadu. The cost is $16.98.

While this is a quality product, the cost is an issue. Also, my kids, who love music and have enjoyed our classical studies thus far this year, had difficulty getting engaged in the story. Having said that, I would therefore recommend this for a younger audience, say, Pre-K/K. Also, this particular story was one that my kids are very familiar with, and so there was no sense of wonder about what would happen.

I don't want to dissuade anyone who truly might benefit from the Maestro Classics series, but I need to be honest. Check out the website and listen to the samples they have available. The Maestro Classic series currently contains several tales, including Mike Mulligan, Casey At the Bat, The Story of Swan Lake, Juanita the Spanish Lobster, and more! They currently are running a special--buy three cds for $45, which saves about six dollars overall. The code for that special is MAESTRO45.

Please, check out what other TOS Crew members have to say here, as well.

All About Spelling....foster spelling skills that are the real deal!

2009-12-04T05:39:00.000-08:00

The TOS Crew has been given the opportunity to review All About Spelling, the Multisensory Program for Spelling Success, by Marie Rippel. Spelling is one of those subjects that just is not stressed like it should be anymore, in my humble opinion. In my years in the classroom, I attended workshops and read articles about how we shouldn't stifle creativity by insisting on correct spelling in our students' work, particularly writing. I knew I would like Marie Rippel when I read in the Level 1 book that she instructs teachers and parents to have students correct misspelled words which they should already know. All About Spelling encompasses quite a bit more than the typical spelling program, focusing on the structure of the word, the sounds and syllables that combine to form words students learn to spell, rather than the theme-related lists that students get with many other programs. As I have examined this program, I have been very impressed at just how multisensory it really is, too. Students have the opportunity to build words with tiles, to say sounds aloud, to write the words themselves, and to hear the words used in phrases for dictation practice.

Just what do you get? The core of this program is the teacher book, which is sold with the student material set for $29.95. Additional student sets for multiple students are $14.95. In addition to the leveled teacher/student materials, you also need the starter kit, which includes letter tiles, magnets, and Phonogram CD-ROM. The starter kit is $26.95 and can be reused year after year.

I normally don't quote the sites for these products I review, but I do want to share this from the All About Spelling site because it just really explains how all the components of the program work together to reinforce learning.

"Level One in the All About Spelling series brings together the three pathways to learning—auditory (hearing), visual (seeing), and kinesthetic (touching). This multisensory approach, combined with a built-in review system and reinforcement activities, ensures that students retain what they learn and understand how to apply it in practical situations.

In a practical, hands-on way, your student will learn:

How to say and write the first 32 phonograms
How to segment words into their individual sounds
Short and long vowel sounds
How to identify and count syllables in a word
How to choose between c and k at the beginning of a word
When to double f, l, and s
How to spell /k/ at the end of a word
How to form plural words by adding s or es
Compound words
Open and closed syllable types

and more!

The multisensory learning tools and activities included in the program help your student master important spelling concepts.

The Flashcards provide a visual and hands-on way to help your student learn and review phonograms, words, and spelling rules.

The Spelling Review Box helps you organize the flashcards so you can quickly see which words, phonograms, and spelling rules your student still needs to learn and review. (Flashcards and dividers are included; you supply the 3x5" index card box.)

The Segmenting Words activity helps your student identify the individual sounds in a word so that he can spell more easily and accurately.

Concept-oriented spelling lists that are grouped by similar phonograms and spelling rules accelerate learning by organizing ideas in the student’s mind and allowing the student to concentrate on and master one or two main concepts before moving on.

Key Cards clearly present key ideas, concepts, and spelling rules that help your student thoroughly understand why a word is spelled the way it is and how to apply that knowledge to many other words.

The More Words and Dictate Phrases sections reinforce current and previously learned concepts, increase the student’s repertoire of words, and allow the student to apply his knowledge in practical situations.

Tips for the teacher anticipate and provide answers to your questions and give you on-the-spot strategies for helping your student overcome stumbling blocks. Worked seamlessly into the lessons, tips are placed right where you need them, when you need them, so you can continue your teaching uninterrupted.

The Progress Chart gives your student a visual reminder of how far he has come and motivates him to master the next step. "

Are there any additional materials to buy with this program? Well, you will need lined paper and some sort of index card box, as well as a magnetic surface.

What's a typical lesson plan like?

Students begin with a review of past concepts with the aid of the various cards in the student materials pack. After that, the lessons may vary a little bit as to the order of activities, but new information may be introduced, and then practiced with the tiles and writing. Lessons generally conclude with dictation practice. The time frame is reasonable for school-age children, but I can't see this with most preschool kids.

What do I like about this program?

Each activity, each phase of the lessons is about learning, not fluff. As a classroom teacher and now as a homeschool teacher, one of my soapboxes is the need to teach to as many senses as possible. All About Spelling gets the eyes, the ears, the mouth, and hands, and the arms all working toward the goal of spelling mastery. In the course of one lesson, they are arranging tiles, looking at cards, writing words, listening and writing what they hear, and playing games that reinforce learning.

Also, each lesson is concise, straightforward, and easy to prepare for.

Level 1 begins with the foundation, the sounds of the first 26 phonograms. Younger students or students needing remedial help will benefit from this as this simply strengthens their reading and writing foundation.

Now, I really like this program, but I do not recommend switching spelling curricula midstream. If you've got something you really like right now, stick with it, but check All About Spelling out for next year. Money-wise, I think you get your money's worth with what I've seen of this program. I am normally a little bit leery to encourage anyone to spend money, but I do think this is a quality program that our kids will learn from rather than simply be entertained by. In fact, before you buy, head on over to the their site and check out some free lessons here and a scope and sequence for Level 1 here. You can check out sample lessons and scope and sequence for other levels by clicking on each product description and scrolling to the end.

I also think that if you wanted to add any additional activities, such as puzzles or alphabetical order sections, that could be easily done. You can also add to the word lists as well, as long as you maintain the same organization.

You can check out all the products they offer here, including All About Spelling Levels 1-5, at the All About Spelling site. Marie Rippel also offers other language arts materials, which you can check out on that site. You can also find out what other TOS Crew members have to say here.

2009-11-29T03:47:00.000-08:00

There is a lot of money-saving activity in the Schoolhouse Store this weekend!

You can receive up to $1300 in FREE gifts during the TOS Black Friday Sale.

Plus, the one-year, print subscriptions will be available for $7.95 during the sale which runs through Sunday. This is a huge discount off a regular subscription and actually about the cost of one issue!

All those subscribing before December 7 will receive the Winter Issue. (Subscriptions received after that will begin with the Spring Issue.)

As a bonus, you can select 10 gifts of your choice—there are 19 gifts from which to choose. There are only 1500 of these gift packs available. This is a 68% savings! The $7.95 price is gone on December 31 at midnight. On January 1, 2010, the price goes back up to $25! The 19 gifts can be viewed here: (Each subscriber picks 10 of the 19.)http://www.thehomeschoolmagazine.com/TOSSummer19Gifts/libanded/index.html

Remember, the more you spend in the Schoolhouse Store through Sunday, the more free gifts you receive. One of the gifts is a FREE one-year membership to and a free will from Homeschool Legal Advantage. Plus, there are so many other FREE homeschooling resources. Check it out at the following link:

http://www.thehomeschoolmagazine.com/2009BlackFridaySale/BF_Level1.htm

It’s so easy to earn the FREE gifts! Select a few items from the literature sale in the Schoolhouse Store or purchase the new Download N Go lapbooking and unit studies series from Amanda Bennett and TOS.

Sorry to just now get this posted--we've been all over this weekend eating turkey with almost anyone and everyone we're kin to! Click here to head on over to all these great deals!

Thanksgiving freebies!

2009-11-23T04:20:00.001-08:00

If you're like us and plan to immerse ourselves in Thanksgiving this week in school, here are some sites you will want to check out!

http://www.homeschooled-kids.com/bethankful.html
So many wonderful resources, including a Thanksgiving Bible study!

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1185900/thanksgiving_science_activity_for_elementary.html?cat=25
http://www.fapeonline.org/thanksgiving-science-experiment.htm
Both of these contain some Thanksgiving science ideas.

http://www.education.com/seasonal/thanksgiving/
A wealth of Thanksgiving ideas for a range of ages.

http://www.superteacherworksheets.com/thanksgiving.html
Superteacherworksheets.com is one of my new go-to sites for fast ideas.

http://www.scholastic.com/scholastic_thanksgiving/?ESP=Teachers/ib/20091102/awa/t_giving_Thanksgiving09_3_5///thlp/tout///
Scholastic has a great site with virtual tours of the Mayflower and narration of their journey.

An early Christmas present from The Old Schoolhouse!

2009-11-15T01:45:00.000-08:00

The Old Schoolhouse has a wonderful gift for us all! It's their digital 175 page Thanksgiving and Christmas supplement, just full of holiday cheer and ideas! To get your free copy, click on the magazine cover to the right.

While you're at the TOS site, check out the other freebies and offers they've got going on these days!

Virginia Soaps and Scents....for your clothes, your family, and a bit of indulgence, too....

2009-11-15T00:21:00.000-08:00

Okay, this one fit me to a tee. Our family is very careful about chemicals we put in and on our bodies and what we use in our home. My husband and I have tried to combine common sense with research, and for us, we prefer natural bath and home cleaning products whenever it's possible and affordable. Now, as a member of the TOS Crew, I have had the opportunity over the past several weeks to review the bath soaps, shampoo bar, and laundry soap from Virginia Soaps & Scents. How much fun I have had!

I got three sample size bars of soap--one fresh orange, one coconut lemongrass, and one oatmeal, milk, & honey, plus a sample size of their ginger lime shampoo bar, and enough of their laundry soap to make a half-gallon.

I have used all of the soaps myself. They are all chemical-free and made with natural oils. I was surprised at the generous amount of lather I got with them all. In fact, I had just received a bar of homemade soap from a local farm, and it didn't lather near as well. They all add a light but comforting scent to bath time and a barely discernible wisp of fragrance lingers on the skin afterward. Now, I know some of y'all are like me and deal with sensitive skin issues, so here's what I experienced. While my skin handled the coconut lemongrass and oatmeal, milk, & honey soaps just fine, both my oldest daughter and I experienced very minor and contained hives after using the fresh orange scent. This is not a complaint at all, but just a heads up for others who have to be careful about their skin. I dealt with excema for years from the time I was about 13 until I was in my 20's and still am thankful that small and infrequent outbreaks are all I've had to deal with since. But I do have to be on guard when it comes to scents. Now, I've done fine with the coconut lemongrass and oatmeal, milk, & honey bars and couldn't tell which I like better, because I like them both so much! And the bars last....when they came in the mail, I figured they would melt down pretty quickly, but I was wrong. It doesn't take much to get enough lather, so even the samples last a while.

The shampoo I was little nervous about trying because I'm picky about my hair stuff. But, again, just like the label explained, it lathered up really well even on my thick hair. And it rinsed quickly and cleanly. Here's a plus I really didn't expect--I don't need an additional conditioner every time. Now, I have hair that drinks moisture up, so I was pretty impressed by how well the shampoo bar alone conditions. And, again, I haven't noticed any skin issues from this either.

I procrastinated trying the laundry soap for a while because I saw it involved a little bit of stove time. However, when I just decided to do it, the whole prep time was less than 10 minutes and incredibly simple. I was a little skeptical when I didn't see the suds that normally signal my clothes are actually being cleaned, but everything came out of the wash smelling and looking clean. Stains? You'll still need your go-to products there, but our laundry came out as clean with the Virginia Soaps & Scents laundry soap kit as it does with our normal detergent. Here's what goes into it: cleaning soap, borax, and washing soda. Okay, will you really save money this way? Y'all, I normally get mid-range laundry detergents, and I'm going to buy the Virginia Soaps & Scents laundry soap instead. I have figured that I normally spend 8-15 cents a load, and the Spargur family can do it for less than 7 cents a load with their homemade laundry soap. The bargain hunter in me is up to the challenge. I used to make our own laundry soap but got out of the habit. We're going to get back into it.

Okay, now that I've shared my experiences with these products, what about cost? The soaps first....

for a 4.5 oz bar

$4.50 per bar 3 bars for $12.00 buy 4, get 1 free 10 bars for $35

Scents include the ones I mentioned above, plus a number of others including violets & lace, country clothesline, and baby powder.

They also have a selection of gourmet soaps. Click here to learn more and see the prices.

for the 5.5 oz shampoo bar

$5.50 per bar 2 bars for $10

They have several scents and an oily hair clarifying formula as well. To learn more about what they offer and how they even got into shampoo making, click here.

for the laundry soap

There are options here, too. You can buy the all inclusive kit (just provide the water yourself), enough to make two gallons of laundry soap, for $4.95. Or you can get just the 9 oz. cleaning bar for $3.95 and buy your own borax and washing soda. The Spargurs very graciously have provided the whole recipe on their site. Click here to learn more about their laundry soap, order, and to see the recipe.

That's not all! You've got to go to their site at www.virginiasoapsandscents.com/ to learn more about all the other products they offer. They even have children's products and soaps inspired by the Christmas season! They also have a soap sampler and other gift packs, too. You can see them here.

As the frugal homemaker and homeschooler that I am, I want to get the most bang for my buck. I think that the Spargurs are right on target in that area. I have been buying natural and organic bath and cosmetic products for a few years now, and their prices beat most of the others I see. A big plus is that they are willing to share what goes into their products.

However, the biggest plus is their example of how a family works together toward a common goal! See what other TOS Crew members have to say here.

Strengthen your students' bodies and .... math skills? Yeah, with Gymathtics!

2009-11-14T23:25:00.000-08:00

A kids' exercise video that promotes healthy lifestyle choices, positive behavior, and strong math skills? Perhaps a little too much for a 30 minute dvd? No! Y'all, Gymathtics from Exploracise is all that! Ms. Carrie along with her exercise team guide kids through an exercise routine that reinforces math skills such as counting, skip counting, patterns, place value, and shapes.

It all begins with a "Shape Stretchers" stretching/warmup routine followed by "Counting Calisthenics", "Pattern Power", and "Well-being Wind Down". As the kids exercise, part of the screen contains a little more information and visual aids for whatever skill is being reinforced. When I first put in this dvd, I was extremely skeptical, but that changed. No, this isn't a math program, but it really does get the whole body involved in reinforcing basic math skills in a way that elementary aged kids will get into.

How intense it is? That depends on your physical condition. For most active kids, I'd say it's going to get their heart pumping and challenge them to push themselves a little, but it's a very realistic routine for kids and for active adults. The whole thing actually lasts about 26 minutes. Like with any exercise program, there's the admonition to talk to your doctor about a new exercise plan. What age kids can perform the exercises in this program? I'd say the target audience is K-5th. Younger than that, I can see frustration setting in and the mathematical part would be over their heads, and older than that, they may be embarrassed and beyond that mathematically.

Throughout the video, Ms. Carrie uses positive language to motivate kids to participate. She uses repetition to reinforce each skill, as well as visual aids and additional commentary on part of the screen when needed. And, during the wind down, she uses easy-to-remember phrases to encourage positive, kind behavior, goal-setting, and perseverance, in language kids can understand and latch onto.

One thing I thought about was this--you can also do the routine in parts, stopping to add your own explanations as needed. And, you know, younger kids may not understand every concept they are hearing, but I think they still will pick up quite a bit and be more ready for these concepts. I am thinking specifically of my first grader. We haven't gotten to prime numbers yet, but as we do this routine, she will repeatedly be exposed to that group of numbers. Even if she doesn't totally get what that concept means, she is learning that those numbers go together for some reason, and that's a start.

Okay, here's the deal on price. Through their site, it's $24.95, but on Amazon it's $16.99. I did a Google shopping search and found several prices between those two, as well, but I can't vouch for the reliability of all the sites. I hesitate to say whether or not products are worth their price because I am exceptionally frugal, but I can say that this is one that will get a lot of use in our home and that I am impressed with the way the creators successfully intertwined a really good exercise program with real math skills reinforcement, all the while promoting healthy and wise choices and positive behavior. I know I say this about other products, but check to see if the other families in your homeschool group would like to pitch in and get a copy or two for your resource library. And while you're at it, check to see if your public library would order a copy.

To learn more about Exploramania and Gymathtics, go to http://www.exploramania.com/ . I You can actually watch a segment of this product on their YouTube video by clicking here . Plus, I saw they now have a second one, too. And I found the story of how this video even came to be so encouraging and motivating. So, check it all out and see what you think!

Examine the foundations and symbols of our freedom with help from the American Heritage Education Foundation....

2009-11-14T21:32:00.000-08:00

First, this is free! Yes, you can request this cd, America's Heritage, at no cost. The print version is $19.95. What exactly is this? Well, it's a supplementary curriculum that focuses on the core symbols and pillars of our nation. Some of the lesson topics include:

Colonial America

the Declaration of Independence

the Statue of Liberty

the national motto

the national anthem

the Presidential Seal

the national flag

And much more!

Is this a stand alone social studies or history curriculum? After examining the lesson plans, I see this as more of a resource or supplementary study than a stand alone curriculum. The lesson plans did not all align to the same grade levels, so teachers would need to make adjustments to fit the age of their students if they wanted to use the product in it entirety.

What age is it for? It's definitely for upper elementary or middle school. The activities are geared toward a group of students with strong reading and critical thinking skills.

What does it include?

lesson plans for 14 topics

printable worksheets, learning activities, and games that coordinate with the lesson plans

an appendix of resources pertaining to the law and religious freedom in schools

a list of sources for information presented in the lessons

Is it biased? Okay, this was a concern I had when I put the cd in the computer. And I was very relieved at the straightforward nature of this study. Yes, it definitely is an expression of thankfulness for the core pillars of our nation and concern over the lack of personal commitment to those pillars today, but it's really more history and activities that encourage students to apply that history to now than anything else. I know in our home, while we are Christian homeschoolers, I really don't like my curriculum to get preachy or take on much commentary. I would rather have quality, well-researched materials and information we can use to develop and strengthen and even challenge our own viewpoints. This cd does fit that bill.

Okay, I did find a couple of typo's. However, overall, this is well written, very informative, and provides a variety of thought-provoking activities for students. I will say this--one page of the KWL master copy would have sufficed rather than taking up several pages of the study for the very same original that's used in several lessons.

Can you get this and plan to use it exclusively for your social studies program next year? No, that's not what it's intended for. If you're like me and love to develop curriculum that is customized for your students, this can be your foundation, and you can add to it. This would be an excellent program to do outside of school proper with, say, the upper elem./middle school aged students in your homeschool groups.

At this point, I speak only from the point of view of a former upper elem./middle school teacher. My kids aren't quite old enough for this program yet, but I can see it has substance and is meant to inspire through information about and examination of the foundational issues of our nation. And, y'all, how can you go wrong with a resouce like this that is free? There's absolutely no reason not to check it out.

To find out more and to order a copy, go to www.americanheritage.org/ . You can also simply download the level you need from that site. There's no catch I can find. On their site, you can also learn more about what the American Heritage Education Foundation is and is about. If you'd like to read what other TOS Crew members have to say, click here.

Another bright idea from Bright Ideas Press....A Young Scholar's Guide to Composers

2009-11-06T04:37:00.000-08:00

As our year began, I wanted our music program to go deeper and be more consistent. I wanted to expose the kids to exceptional music and to be able to learn about the composers. How neat that one of the products I was asked to review for the TOS Crew was A Young Scholar's Guide to Composers from Bright Ideas Press! This is a study of composers over the last several hundred years, but what makes it different is that it's written from a Christian point of view.

Geared toward 4-8 graders, this book provides all you need to have your own music appreciation course at home or in your co-op. It's a 32-week curriculum. Each section consists of a biography and notetaking sheet, as well as the materials needed to make a composer info card. In the appendices at the end, there are also printables for mapping where each composer was from and a timeline printable that spans several hundred years, as well as a composer bingo game and a list of listening resources and sites for each composer. While the music is not included in what you buy, they give lists of free listening resources online. The authors provide a guideline for teaching each section over a three-day time frame.

The biographies are thorough but won't bog down older elementary readers. The authors provide information about the composers' personal as well as professional lives. I appreciate that they keep things age-appropriate. In the introduction they explain something of their dilemma in choosing who to include and how to present their lives when many of these men led lifestyles we would not condone.

My kids and I, although they are younger than the recommended age frame, have been using the program in a modified version. We read the biography of a composer and then choose a piece to listen to. As we listen, we try to find certain elements in each piece. We compare elements from different composers' pieces. My older two will be second and third graders next year, and I want to use the program in its entirety then.

Like I said, it's written from a Christian point of view. What this means is that the authors have tried to discover what role faith had in the lives of the composers without trying to play judge. While they do draw some conclusions based on the lifestyles and writings of the composers, they are quick to admit that only God knows what's in a man's heart.

Y'all, this is one that worth every penny, in my opinion! It's 329 pages of useful information and learning resources. This is one you'll want for your homeschool group or co-op library. To learn more about ordering, click here. For the cd version, it's $29.95, but the print version is only $5 more at $34.95. You can check out sample pages here. To find out what other Crew members have to say, click here.

Get those pencils moving with the Writer's Workshop from Bright Ideas Press....

2009-11-06T03:27:00.000-08:00

As a public school teacher for several years, one huge positive was that it gave me exposure to examples of quality materials in the area of writing. As a homeschooling mom, now, I realize that there are lots of products to choose from. The TOS Crew was recently given the opportunity to review The Writer's Workshop by Maggie Hogan and J.B. Hogan, which is an ebook writing program offered by Bright Ideas Press. If you've been interested in starting a writer's group for your students or within your homeschool group, this is a resource you'll want to check out.

The Writer's Workshop is all about how to have a meaningful, productive writer's workshop. Many aspects of writing are covered in the lessons. The authors begin by explaining just what a writer's workshop is and how to get one started, basically the nuts and bolts of it for those of us who haven't ever participated in one. And they get specific, too, which is helpful. Outlines of 28 lessons then follow, each one spotlighting one aspect of successful writing. Each lessons contains a short writing assignment as well, to give the students an imediate opportunity to put into practice what they learn. Click here to see the table of contents and a few lesson pages. For anyone who didn't click on that link, here's a partial list of the topics covered in the program's lesson plans.

Favorite Author

Caldecott and Newbery Award Winners

Webbing

Character Sketches

Plot

Synonyms and Antonyms

Observation

Commonly Misused Words

Collecting and Using Interesting Words

The Writer's Workshop isn't just lesson plans....the authors give guidelines for how to use the time spent each week in the group, and while the lessons are important, they stress author sharing time as the top priority of the group time. I love that. All the programs and lesson plans in the world don't take the place of just writing and sharing your work. And I appreciate that the authors also provide some very clearcut guidelines for this sharing time, so that the kids get some useful feedback, but in a caring, nonthreatening environment.

The Writer's Workshop is written to be used for a group, and it is designed for homeschooling moms. The authors suggest that the moms of the group take turns teaching the lessons. The focus is on getting the kids writing and sharing what they write, and that is stressed in the program's introduction. For those who are not confident in their own writing skills or the ability to teach competent writing skills to their students, never fear! The authors were very thorough in their lesson plans, even though each one is only meant to take a few minutes. Each lesson plan is well organized and contains what you need to know to be able to teach it to the kids.

What age is The Writer's Workshop for? While parts of it could be used with our preschoolers, I think that really students that can both read and write are the target age. I think the trick is in how you set up your group. The authors express the importance of considering the makeup of your group and how they get along. And, yes, it's okay to have a wide age gap among the participants. As I've gone through the material, I've observed that the lessons focus on topics and skills that would benefit any age writer. They're not too tough for our younger writers, nor too babyish for our older ones.

What's the cost? This ebook is $14.95. It's a 76-page download. And this is a resource you can use again and again. That being said, I know that most of us are really one-income families on a budget. $14.95 might be a stretch in November. But add this to your list of possible resources for next semester or next year and take some time to examine the sample pages. To find out more about ordering, click here to go to the Bright Ideas site. And for those who do order this book, really get into it--the authors have created a really informative, helpful, effective guidebook on how to get kids involved and excited about writing. To find out what other Crew members have to say, click here.

Simple as....ABC Teach.com!

2009-10-22T00:04:00.000-07:00

ABC Teach is a web site with all sorts of printables and resources for teachers, with materials available for a wide variety of subjects. I was already familiar with some of the 5,000+ free materials and used this site regularly as I prepared our science and social studies units. However, in the last month, through the TOS Crew, I've had access to the 35,000 pages available to members. Wow! Have I had fun! ABC Teach has resources that include:

games

flashcards

units

worksheets

songs

puzzles

lesson plans

graphic organizers

posters

maps

clip art

experiments

writing paper

bulletin board items

word wall items

coloring sheets

shape books

And that is not all! By typing in keywords, you can pull up pages and pages of resources for many topics, from Newbery book studies, to ASL printables, to reading comprehension worksheets, to test taking skills, to.... basically almost any learning-related topic you can think of.

Who can benefit from ABC Teach? Well, this is just as useful for public and private school teachers as it is for homeschoolers. Even if you have an all-inclusive curriculum, there are so many extras on this site, like games and crafts, that you can supplement with. There are even tools for creating your own customized materials that fit what your students are doing. And it's not just for the classroom--a lot of the resources fit into family activities and traveling and cooking and play time, too. As for me, personally, I've used it to build our muscular and circulatory system units, as well as to get maps for our study of all the peoples that make up America. I've downloaded a number of reading comprehension exercises and science experiments and games as well. I've used the clip art for labeling exercises. I've begun collecting craft ideas for the Christmas season.

So, yes, it's really, really neat and kinda addictive, too, but how about efficiency and ease of use?One thing that I like about ABC Teach compared to similar sites is how quickly the resources download. I don't have to wait long at all for most. However, the search engine within this site is not as easy to use as some others I have found. For example, I needed human heart printables, but when I typed "human heart worksheet" in the search line, I got other types of human heart-related resources as well. Sometimes, I have time to browse, but sometimes I just want to find what I need and move on.

Another thing I need to point out is that my experience is that my computer would kick me off the site after so long. Maybe it just needed to rest from its hard labor as I found one great resource after another, but it was a little annoying. But, you know, I have found that other educational sites have similar issues, so I really don't consider this a huge deal.

What's the cost? Well, to subscribe through their site for an individual is $40 a year. However, you can go through the Homeschool Buyers Co-op to get rates as low as $20 a year. Should you? Well, take some time to play around on their site with the free materials to see how you like their setup and the resources they offer. I even suggest you compare it with other sites that are similar in nature. Y'all, only you know what you can afford and what resources you and your students will benefit from. Take this one for a test drive and see if it fits the bill. You can read what other TOS Crew members had to say here and check out the benefits of joining and a video telling more on the ABC Teach site here.

Do you know Alice?

2009-10-22T00:00:00.001-07:00

My husband just told me about Alice.com this week. How cool is this? You can buy groceries online, with free shipping! They don't carry everything, but they carry a lot. What I like is that they carry some items I have to hop and skip all over town to find, particularly my "green" items. And they automatically give you credit for manufacturer's coupons. I placed my first order this week and should receive it via UPS tomorrow. I'll have to let you know what I think then!

More from Sue Gregg....

2009-10-21T23:01:00.000-07:00

Okay, my copy of Introducing Whole Foods Cooking definitely bears the evidence of my enthusiasm in trying out these recipes--comments in the margin and chowder spots on multiple pages. Last week, I posted about the first several recipes I made from this book, and now here's my follow-up report. Since the first post, I've made the black bean chowder, more almond coffee cake, and the country creole peas 'n corn.

Before I describe my experiences with these recipes, I'd like to tell a little more about the cookbook itself. The recipes really only take up a small portion of the book. That is where this book is very unique as a cookbook. It does contain some of the same basic helps a regular cookbook would, but it goes several steps farther, including a section called "Serving and Connecting", which describes how we can beautify our mealtimes and make them a time of authentic communication, sharing, and devotion. And in the "Next Steps" section, information is provided, among other things, on how to provide whole foods meals on a budget and how to revise recipes to make them healthier. You don't buy this cookbook just for recipes--it's a tool to aid you in food and mealtime decisions and practices, regardless of whether your dishes come from this book.

I know I mentioned this in my previous post, but the powerpoint cd is invaluable as well, giving me a visual aid as I read and follow the directions for each recipe.

On to our experiences with these dishes....

Both the country creole peas 'n corn and the black bean chowder made big pots that fed us for three meals, and we're a family of five. Both were homestyle-type main dishes, casual and comforting. The black bean chowder was especially easy and can be made when prep time is limited to a couple of hours. The country creole peas 'n corn involved time for soaking the peas, but once that was done, this one could be made in less than an hour. I followed her suggestion of topping the peas 'n corn with sour cream and then decided it was a great topping for the chowder, too. How did the family like them? My husband and I really liked the peas 'n corn, and our daughters ate it without complaining, but my son just didn't care for it. They are all three more accustomed to their vegetables being separated from other parts of the meal, rather than in a soup or stew form. I think with time that will change as they become more accustomed to it, but for today, that's honestly where we're at. Pretty much the same thing with the chowder, too. My inlaws and my husband and I really liked the texture and the mellow but full taste. I served it with sauteed vegetables and French bread, with the almond coffee cake for dessert. Now, the coffee cake everybody liked!

I do want to point out that the recipes in Introducing Whole Foods Cooking are written in a format that is a little bit different from most standard cookbooks. The ingredients are not listed at the beginning but are rather highlighted as they appear in the recipe. I'm really laid back, so that's not a big deal to me, but it is a little bit different. It does, however, make it imperative that you read through the recipe thoroughly before beginning to make it. I like to do things fast, and I like to be able to make something at the last minute. But with my Sue Gregg cookbooks, it's important and worth it to read carefully and follow the directions.

If you are looking for a great volume of recipes, one after the other, that's not what this is. Introducing Whole Foods Cooking is more about creating cooking habits that can carry over into the preparation of any meal and about sharing ideas and activities to make your table a place of praise and encouragement for all who gather there.

To learn more about Introducing Whole Foods Cooking, from Rich and Sue Gregg, head on over to their site here. That links you to a 38-page preview of the book. Like I've said in my other posts, try out some of the recipes she offers on her site if you're not sure if it's for you.

I know first-hand the challenges and adjustments involved in going from a conventional to whole foods-based diet. It does take more time, and there can be resistance from other family members. But it is so worth it, if you stick with it. This is not an all or nothing deal. Take small steps that you and your family can adapt to. Make meal preparation a family experience. When kids help make a dish, they are prone to be proud to eat it. And forget the notion that healthy or whole has to cost more! I buy very little processed food items and lots of whole foods, as much natural and organic as I can afford, and, honestly, since I just don't allow very many filler foods to be put in our cart, we don't spend any more than a typical American family does on conventional food items.

Back to the book.... look at the preview, test out some of Sue Gregg's recipes on the site, and talk to your spouse before buying the book. And if you do purchase it (it's $17 and comes with the power point cd), be ready to learn more than how to combine and cook ingredients--be ready to make your meal times something really special.

Freebie Alert!!!!!!

2009-10-17T05:43:00.001-07:00

Who doesn't like freebies? Did you know that The Old Schoolhouse is offering an entire Autumn unit study and lapbook from Amanda Bennett right now? You can download this more than 80-page collection of activities and resources through the TOS store at: http://www.theoldschoolhousestore.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=145&products_id=12934

Also, why not subscribe to some of the newsletters TOS offers? They range from weekly freebies to doses of encouragement, wisdom, and support as we homeschool. You can even get two free weE-books each month. You can check out the different options in TOS newsletters here.

One more thing.....TOS also has an article that we'll all find encouraging on being a homeschooling mom. And at the end you'll find a code for getting the $7.95 TOS subscription rate through October 18. Click here to read the article and get the code.

Introducing Whole Foods Cooking....proudly!

2009-10-13T21:05:00.000-07:00

A few months ago, I first reviewed a Sue Gregg recipe, the yogurt pie. Well, over the last few days, we've been mixing and baking and taste testing from Introducing Whole Foods Cooking for Health and Hospitality. What took me so long? Well, for one, each week I would put off veering from my normal purchases out of concern for how much more I would need to spend to try something different.

However, let me begin by sharing how just the opposite has been true. I sat down with the cookbook and a piece of paper and wrote down ingredients for each recipe I chose. I made out a menu for this week, with at least one meal a day coming from the book. Yes, there were several ingredients I don't normally buy or keep on the shelf, but even after buying all I needed, our grocery bill was no more than usual. Once that part was over and had turned out to be painless, I was excited to get started.

On Monday, we tested the seasoned turkey, fruit cole slaw with sweet mayonnaise dressing, and fruit shakes. On Tuesday, we moved on to the tuna bunsteads and 4-vegetable stir fry. Tomorrow, my plan is to make the country creole peas 'n corn, fruit cole slaw with sweet lite dressing, and fresh apple topping to go with the oatmeal surprise, while Thursday's plan includes the baked parmesan chicken and almond coffee cake. This review will be ongoing as the week progresses, but I think it's important to go ahead and start describing our experiences these first two days in order to give each recipe review clarity.

As with the yogurt pie my kids and I made, lunch yesterday was a joint venture. While I seasoned and browned the turkey, I assisted my oldest daughter in measuring and mixing up the fruit cole slaw and sweet mayonnaise dressing. We didn't start working on lunch until around 11 o'clock since we had our morning classes to attend to, but we still had it ready within an hour. Turkey....not long ago, I was still a ground chuck loyalist, but when my husband's cholesterol levels weren't as low as he expected, we eliminated beef from the meals we cook here at home. I'd been buying ground turkey and seasoning it like beef, but the recipe in Introducing Whole Foods Cooking included some ingredients I wouldn't have thought to add which gave it a much more vibrant, meaty flavor that just hinted at being tangy. Very easy but noticeable improvement. We layered the turkey with tortilla chips, cheese, salsa, and sour cream.

Our side was the fruit cole slaw, which allows for personal preference in the fruits you include. We went with a somewhat safe combination for our bunch here, apples, pineapple, and raisins. The dressing has a light, tangy-sweet flavor that went well with our choices and toned down the cabbage flavor. While the meat was a big hit with everyone, the cole slaw seemed to play better to the school age and above crowd at our table. Our youngest doesn't like too many flavors and textures combined and has to warm up to new combinations, so we'll see how he likes it when we make it later this week again.

The basic fruit shake is much like a homemade smoothy but a little richer tasting, I would say. So very easy to make and a healthy dessert to serve. Again, all but our youngest really liked it. I hate to admit that because it really is good, but sometimes these preschoolers just need a little time to get used to things. Sometimes they are just a little more set in their ways than we expect.

On Tuesday, we were especially busy as it was a field trip day, so I went with something that looked particularly easy, the tuna bunsteads and 4-vegetable stir fry. I am so glad I did, because it was both easy and delicious. The tuna bunstead recipe took maybe an hour to make, from the very beginning of prep till it was ready to serve. Forget what you know about those cans of tuna--this was good enough for a main dish and my husband remarked on how filling it was. It just doesn't get much easier than the 4-vegetable stir fry. I have to admit I have been in a rut with my cooking lately..... meat, a side vegetable, a bread, possibly dessert. The vegetables in this recipe just complement each other really well and, while I added no additional salt or pepper, this dish had such a vibrant flavor.

Like I said, tomorrow, I plan to try the country creole peas 'n corn with the oatmeal surprise and fresh apple topping.

So far, what would I say about this cookbook, Introducing Whole Foods Cooking? Here's the facts before my opinions. It's a softcover cookbook with a plastic protective sheet over the cover. Its features include:

how we can use food and cooking to connect with others
what scriptural applications can be demonstrated through the process of cooking and sharing food (While I have not found anything objectionable as I've read, I also know that only God's Word is infallible, so always test what you learn or read against what scripture says.)
recipes that include main dishes, sides, breads, salads, and desserts
information concerning shopping for whole foods
nutritional information for each recipe as well as suggested menus for weight loss and maintenance
explanations about foods we may not be familiar with as well as foods we are ignorant about but still may be using in our cooking
an accompanying cd which includes photo instructions for each recipe as well as a semester curriculum and several Bible study components

This cookbook/cd set can be purchased for $17. Now, my impressions and opinions.

The nutritional helps and ingredient information alone are worth that much.
The curriculum is practically a steal and ties in Biblical study with learning to cook with whole foods.
The photo demostrations are what sets this apart for me. I need these as any cookbook can easily get the better of both my confidence and my skills.
As a mom and wife, I appreciate the Greggs' dedication to creating cookbooks with recipes that are nourishing and delicious and affordable. Like I said above, it cost me no more to buy the ingredients these recipes called for than it normally does to buy the same old same old.

Now, if you're just not sure you can afford $17 for a cookbook right now, here's a suggestion. Head over to the Sue Gregg website here. Choose a recipe to test, and read about their story here. Check out the cookbook previews they offer here.

I need to say this. If you just want recipes without a lot of helps and additional information, this is not for you. I have family members who would never look past the actual recipe pages, and that's fine, but that's not what this cookbook is all about. If you buy this cookbook, you are buying more than recipes for dishes. You get all sorts of extras, but you've got to take the time to read and to apply.

As I was telling my husband today, we've been eliminating things from our diet for several years, but I haven't been finding replacements at the same rate, so, to me, trying out these recipes is like a shot in the arm for my cooking skills. If you're needing your own booster or just a new idea, I encourage you to check out Sue Gregg's Introducing Whole Foods Cooking for Health and Hospitality. I'll let you know how the rest of our recipes go!

Learning with ebooks, Guardian Angel Publishing....

2009-10-12T19:47:00.000-07:00

Guardian Angel Publishing. They offer books in ebook, cd, or print form. I chose The Sum of Our Parts: No Bones About It, Hamster Holidays: Noun and Adjective Adventures, Andy and Spirit Go to the Fair, Maybe We Are Flamingos, and Earthquake.

The Sum of Our Parts: No Bones About It

Our science curriculum this year is a journey through all the major body systems, so this one fit right in with our study of the skeletal system. It provided "factoids" and pictures of the major bones in the body accompanied by descriptive rhymes about each one. I printed this one off and used it in pieces, in our order of study, rather than in the order the pages were written. The ebook version is $5, which is appropriate, I think, but the cd and print versions are over $15 after shipping. This one is appropriate for all the elementary grades, and really all the way up, as the rhymes and illustrations could still be used in the high school grades to reinforce learning.

Hamster Holidays: Noun and Adjective Adventures

This one is takes the reader through the year with a bunch of hamsters, detailing their celebrations and highlighting the nouns and adjectives in different colors. I really like this one, as it makes grammar colorful and visual and entertaining as well. The author doesn't try to tackle more than the name implies, nouns and adjectives. After the story, there's a long section of lessons and activities, complete with keys, which reinforce learning and dig a little deeper into types of nouns, singular or plural, proper or common. With this one, we will only print the activities at the back, as it would take a lot of color ink to print the whole thing, but it's not a big deal to sit in front of the screen to read this in short portions throughout units on nouns and adjectives. And, at $5 for the ebook format, I think it's a good deal. I really like how it's color coded and doesn't try to teach more than young students can absorb about nouns and adjectives. The story and the learning objectives are on the same level, and I would say this is appropriate for preK-3. You can purchase this in cd and print form as well.

Andy and Spirit Go To the Fair

This is a book about a young man with disabilities who teams up with a horse who's a little different, too, to make a winning combination. Many of our children in the homeschooling community are involved in 4-H and county/state fair competitions, so they may feel that connection as they read and maybe even realize opportunities to reach out to others often considered different. This story deals with overcoming insecurity and bullying and the importance of seeing past differences. I think that for young readers, this one can give some insights into what it's like to deal with physical disabilities and still be a kid. This one is for upper elementary aged students as well the younger ones, too.

Maybe We Are Flamingos

Two young birds realize they're not like the older flamingos around them. Could they actually be something else? Where do they belong? In the end, not only do they get an answer, the reader gets a little lesson on flamingos as well. Younger (pre-K-3) readers will get so giggly at some of the pictures, but they'll also get the point.

Earthquake

This one was one of my favorites, as it contained several graphs, charts, and maps and really was the most informational of all the ones I've described here. The author, Susan Berger, describes what an earthquake is, what it can do, how it is measured, how long it lasts, and how to be prepared, in a way even younger students can understand. While many of the charts and graphs are more appropriate for an older reader, they provide quite a bit of background information parents and teachers will find interesting. There is a craft section as well, where directions are given for making pockets for emergency materials that can be kept within easy reach should an earthquake occur at night.

Okay, here's my take on all these. I think the ebooks are appropriately priced at $5. And I think many of us are getting more familiar and comfortable with the ebook format. What I like about this format is that I can pick and choose what I want to use and only print out that much, if I need to print it, that is. I personally would choose these over the cd or print versions, simply based on the price issue. And I can see $5 being a reasonable price for what you get. Most of the cd and print versions of the books above would run over $15 with shipping, and in today's world of internet-smart shopping and tight family budgets, that runs a little high, I think, for the level of books they offer.

Now, here's something that won't stretch those budgets. Guardian Angel Publishing also offers several freebies, including books and coloring sheets, which you can see and download here.

So, to learn more and make your own decisions, click here to visit the Guardian Angel Publishing site or here to read what other TOS Crew members have to say about these and other selections.

Check out these deals!

2009-10-06T04:52:00.000-07:00

Okay, y'all, head over to Staples and get two packs of paper for $1 apiece after in store discounts and internet rebates. Even compared to Walmart prices, you're saving over $1.50 per pack. Speaking of Walmart, in the garden section of ours, I found a school supply clearance with unbelievable markdowns. I had to exercise some big time self-control as the bargain hunter in me wanted to go a little wild there. They also had lots of totes and containers marked way down in there, too. Oh, if you are thinking about the Sue Patrick WorkBox System, this would be a good time to get some supplies!

A Blessing In the Bread....

2009-10-06T04:41:00.000-07:00

Okay, yesterday, I had a blessing I have to share because it sure made me think! I know most of you are like me and have noticed how weekly grocery items fluctuate in price, more often toward a higher amount these days. Well, yesterday, we were out of everything, I mean everything. After hitting several spots in town to get the deals I wanted, we pointed the van toward home. I was honestly feeling deflated by how much everything cost, just to feed my family. Then, I remembered that I forgot the bread. Ughhhhh.....the kids were tired, we were all hungry, and I had cold stuff in the van that needed to get home. So, I decided we could make a fast stop at the locally-owned grocery store on the way home, the kind you can still get in and out of in less than two minutes. Y'all, they just happened to have the kind of bread I like to get on sale! For over a dollar less than the other stores I'd been in! I'd say that my forgetfulness at the other stores was a blessing in actuality and a reminder that God always knows our needs and is looking out for us! May I daily be more and more aware of and thankful for the many blessings that come to me and mine!

A Science Magazine to Encourage and Uplift....Nature Friend (and its Study Guide, too!)

2009-10-06T03:13:00.000-07:00

In a nutshell, Nature Friend is the Christian version of a kids' science magazine. In today's world, what is theory is pressed upon our children as indisputable fact, from museum exhibits to children's television programming to literature, so what a blessing to sit down with them with a publication that even says in its subscription information that it "upholds the principles of the inspired Word of God, high Christian family standards, Divine Creation (no evolution), and practical Christian stewardship of God's creation."

On all fronts, faith is being attacked these days. And the world of science is no exception. What is ironic is that this is one area that so naturally points to the existence and participation of a Creator. Nature Friend is one magazine that uses this connection to bolster belief with articles of how our Creator specially made and fit the world and its creatures.

Features include:

vibrant photographs from nature of plant and animal life
a "Learning by Doing" section to deepen student understanding through action
articles that point out the handiwork of God in His creation
language that elementary children can read and understand
monthly features such as "You Can Draw", "Invisibles", and "WonderNose"
a section for reader-submitted poetry and art in every issue
reader-submitted articles
a "Nature Trails" section in which readers describe or send in photos about what they're doing at certain points in the year

My class here and I like to take an issue out to the swing in our yard and read it cover to cover. We begin by stopping to find all the hidden objects in the "Invisibles" section and then move on to the various articles and features. They always get inspired by the artwork and poetry other readers have submitted and do their best to figure out the subject of "WonderNose" before it's revealed by the author. Their imagination is stretched and fueled by vivid language and photography that captures the designs on a turtle shell and the look in an owl's eye as he swoops toward his prey. By the time we finish an issue, we're more informed about and in awe of some aspect of the creation and more aware of its beauty and presence around us.

You can find out more about Nature Friend by clicking here to go to the website. There, you can find information about subscribing and subscriber testimonials. You can also see samples of some of Nature Friend's features. A one-year subscription is $36, and for two years, it's $68. They have a neat deal, that for every four subscriptions you buy, a fifth one is free, with the option that it can go to hospital children. Now, I understand and can totally identify with the notion that right now $36 is more than some families can afford for a magazine subscription. Just yesterday, I was shocked to discover our sandwich meat alone had jumped $1 in a week, just sandwich meat! Here's a suggestion--talk to the families in your homeschool group or coop and see if they'd like a subscription for the group library. Or go in together with one or two others families and share a subscription. Talk to your public library, too--what a blessing Nature Friend would be to the community! Also, until November 30, 2009, Nature Friend has a discount on new subscriptions. Use the code BLOG93 to save $3.00.

Nature Friend offers a supplementary Study Guide insert for each issue which is purchased separately. The Study Guide reinforces knowledge from the magazine articles through educational puzzles and activities and provides tips in photography and writing as well. It is an additional $2 per issue. It is optional and cannot be purchased without the magazine itself. Here's what I think here: Yes, this section is great, too, especially the segments on photography and nature writing, but if money is an issue, don't let the additional cost of the Study Guide keep you from purchasing the magazine. Perhaps later down the road you could add the Study Guide subscription.

In its 27th year of publication, Nature Friend continues to educate and encourage classes and families to see creation for what it really is--the amazing and intentional work of an awesome Creator! Check out what other TOS Crew members have to say here and head over to the Nature Friend site to learn more for yourself!

Some free finds....

2009-10-03T05:15:00.000-07:00

Finally.... a Saturday with no big plans! While I have a few minutes to breathe before my bunch wakes up, I have been wanting to share some sites I've come across. I am all about getting a deal any time I can, and these are some good ones.

http://www.sciencea-z.com/scienceweb/freesample.do?campaign=sazlpmicro
You can get three free science units, one on animals, one on sound, and one on water. You can also sign up for newsletters and subscriptions.

http://www.earlychildhoodlinks.com/teachers/themeunitselementary.htm
I like how this site organizes its links by whether or not its free.

http://www.hummingbirded.com/download.htm
Found this one through the one just above on the free side. Lots of links for free printables, mainly literature-based, plus a hand-washing curriculum.

http://kids.aol.com/KOL/1/KOLJr
This is the aol site for younger kids, preschool and early elementary. We like the games on this one, particularly the math skills-related ones.

Oh, and I found a wonderful read this week--actually I rediscovered it on our library shelves. Little House In the Ozarks is a collection of Laura Ingalls Wilder's writings throughout the first half of the 20th century, mainly short articles on a variety of topics pertaining to rural life and world events and how she processed it all together there in her Missouri farmhouse. A very encouraging read!

Anyway, I need to get my day going here, but I hope y'all find these helpful!

See the big picture with the Amazing Bible World History Timeline!

2009-09-25T01:37:00.000-07:00

Okay, it's always neat to get a large, triangular package in the mail--more on that later. I was looking for the Amazing Bible World History Timeline to arrive, but it was way more than I expected. The size of a wall map, that's where we quickly found a place for it, and when I can't find my husband, that's where I look these days.

What is the Amazing Bible World History Timeline? It's a timeline in clock format of both Biblical events and overall world history, beginning with Adam and continuing through the present. Where did this timeline originate? Click here to read its background. While nothing other than God's Word, the Bible, is considered infallible, this is an excellent study and reference tool, connecting people and events in an ongoing account, rather than as the separate, independent entities of information we often perceive them as.

In a circular, color-coded format, one can view what was happening all over the world at a given century in world history, including information about significant inventions, leaders, revolutions, conflicts, and lineage, among a host of data. So often, we study and believe the Bible, but that knowledge exists in our heads separate from our knowledge of world history. This puts the two together, enhancing our perception of each.

What ages can use the timeline? While it's obviously above the reading levels of most young children, parents can use it as a tool in teaching, both their own kids and in church Bible classes for all ages. By upper elementary, with guidance, many students should be able to begin gleaning themselves from this chart. I remember lying in my grandfather's recliner studying old World Books at a young age, unable to comprehend everything but still learning a lot. So, while I can use this as a tool in the Old Testament overview curriculum we use with our kids, this is also something my parents and inlaws would love to receive as a gift.

Now, while this is a wonderful and incredibly useful tool, is it inspired? No. In fact, in the background on its sources, on the chart itself, it expresses the impossibility of being certain on all dates, and that users should consider all dates not "well-established" as "suggestive only". In fact, the last quarter of the clock design deals with the end times, which is a topic that no one can be definitive about, and there are references referring to Israel which reflect individual views. So, while the timeline can play a part in casting light on the interconnectedness of Biblical and overall world history and in understanding when events occurred in relation to people and other events, it should not be used as a infallible or solitary tool to determine or sway individual beliefs.

How much is it, and what do you get for your money? Well, one chart is $29.97, plus $6.00 s/h. However, they have a deal for 2 of them--$49.97 for two, still just $6 s/h. Along with the chart, which measures 37"x 45" and comes on glossy, sturdy paper, thicker than normal posterboard, you get free access to the following downloads:

Interactive Maps of the Holy Land
Genealogy of Jesus Christ
a pdf of the Amazing Bible Timeline

You can check out the latest prices and order on their website by clicking here.

Okay, my husband pointed out an unexpected plus to getting the timeline. You know that triangular box I referred to in the introduction? Well, we have a little train nut around here, and when you cut the box into sections, it makes perfect tunnels for little tracks and trains!

Seriously, this is an amazing tool, very visual and and full of information. You can find out more about the Amazing Bible World History Timeline at their website here and in the reviews of other TOS Crew members here.

Nutrition 101: Choose Life, a curriculum to instill healthy habits....

2009-09-24T23:35:00.000-07:00

As we teach our children, one of our primary goals is to make that learning relevant and to develop their ability to discern what is wise and good. We want to dig past the status quo, so they can be more and more equipped to live full, rich, purposeful lives. Nutrition 101: Choose Life , from Growing Healthy Homes, is a one-year science curriculum that takes these goals very seriously. This program engages the entire family in a study and ongoing dialogue about the systems of the body and how they are affected by nutritional habits. What a wonderful tool to have in a world full of unhealthy options and influences!

Nutrition 101: Choose Life is divided into six units covering the twelve main body systems, how they respond to nutritional practices, and how to eat in order for each to perform optimally. This study takes a human biology course past recalling facts and labelling diagrams to the level of application and synthesis. In each unit, the foods that bring health and vitality to each of the body systems and the potentially harmful ones are examined as well. The authors incorporate healthy food practices and opportunities to prepare various dishes into the curriculum. They provide a wealth of information and resources in the attached appendix section, as well, on topics that include:

health statistics in the U.S.
a food pyramid based on the nutritional guidelines of the curriculum
sample menus
shopping lists
selecting fresh, healthy foods
maintaining kitchen and home safety

.......... and much more!

I've shared in another post how nutrition became a serious issue to my husband and myself after the birth of our oldest child. With Nutrition 101: Choose Life , I am better equipped to give them a 30-year headstart on us! While from birth, they have been exposed to our attempts to purchase, grow, and prepare what is truly good for them, this curriculum provides a rhyme and reason that goes past mealtime discussions and grocery store aisle questions. Rather than catching random pieces of the puzzle, we all can learn in a systematic manner as a family, how our body works and how what we put into it matters to how it functions.

So, how am I using Nutrition 101: Choose Life? Not in its entirety this semester, as I had already chosen and put a lot of work into preparing a science curriculum, and I think it lends itself well to introducing aspects of the Nutrition 101 study without totally changing gears. Our curriculum is a study of the human body and its systems, so I am incorporating parts of the the Nutrition 101 program. For example, as we study the muscular system, I am including nutrional information and a cooking activity. Now, next semester, I do plan to follow up our present study with a more indepth use of Nutrition 101: Choose Life as our core science curriculum. This is a program that in the future, I think it would be wise to review and repeat, so that the kids catch information at different windows of understanding and ability. While I think it's best utilized in its entirety, that may not work with all families, and much can still be gained by breaking it up to fit your family's situation. It's an exceptional reference material for every family and every mom, with tons of nutritional information and helps. It's a curriculum that can be customized and added to, as well. Here's something that really works for me--every curriculum I print off goes in a binder. (Wow, you're saying by now..) I always add more, so I just stick my additions in as they would fit in the sequence of study. I end up with lots of depth and variety in our studies that way, and the binders become reference materials for later, more involved studies when the kids are older. I never get rid of curriculums like that, that contain so much reference information.

Any concerns about this curriculum? While beginning the book with a medical disclaimer, the authors do express their opinion on various issues, such as vaccination, which is a hot one right now. Just be wise and remember to research things for yourself. Overall, as a curriculum, this is a great one, full of information and activities.

What about price? The cd-rom of the curriculum is $79, while the book version is $99. You can get both for $129, which reflects a significant savings. You can check out these deals here, on their web site.

You can also view samples pages of the curriculum on their web site. Click here to go straight to that page. And below you will find a YouTube video of testimonials concerning Nutrition 101: Choose Life. Head on over to the TOS Crew blog for more reviews as well!

Go Back In Time With Jim Baumgardner's Sarah....

2009-09-23T02:03:00.000-07:00

Okay, if you have kids of upper elementary or older age, if you enjoy historical or Christian fiction, or if you just need to be reminded of the enduring and powerful nature of hope, faith, and family, read Jim Baumgardner's Sarah's Wish. A real-life storyteller who lives along the Old Chisholm Trail, Mr. Baumgardner takes the reader back in time, through the story of twelve-year-old Sarah Smith, to experience the dark side of the period just before the Civil War, as well as the determination and kindness of those who opposed the enslavement of others.

Set primarily in Ohio, Sarah's Wish introduces the reader to Sarah and her dear friends, as they work to help her rebuild and continue her life and mission after a heartbreaking tragedy, in the midst of a pivotal time in our nation's history. Baumgardner does more than put facts to a story form--he gives this period in time voices and language and faces that even elementary aged students can relate to. As the main character, Sarah, struggles with how to pursue her family mission and remain true to her own convictions and her friends, the author frames a struggle inside all of us, regardless of our century, and opens a door for discussion in classrooms and homes.

I'll tell you, this one had me hooked from the beginning. From the first page, Sarah's Wish is full of imagery the reader can see, hear, feel, taste, and smell. Seriously, this is well written. And without turning into a history lesson, Mr. Baumgardner weaves historical fact and 19th century phrases with fictional characters and life experiences to make the history come alive. From slave huts to antebellum mansions to midwest farmhouses, readers find themselves alongside those on both sides of the struggle for freedom, experiencing both the fears and the laughter, the determination and the compassion. I love that the author allows the main character, a child, to truly do big things in the story, all the while in the care of adults who loved and guided her. Our kids (as well as their parents and teachers) need to know they can effect change and work toward their hopes and have convictions and be significant in the lives of others in their childhood years. And we adults can be encouraged by the actions and decisions of the adults who had care of Sarah and by the way Sarah grew in wisdom and faith throughout the plot.

In my opinion, this book is appropriate for upper elementary, third grade and above, for independent reading. The length is 123 pages, and the author has added some additional information concerning the life and language of the time in which it's set, in order to aid the younger readers. However, when read with a discerning adult who can offer explanations, I think younger students than what I specified above would love it, too. I do want to add that, while not being graphic in its portrayals, this book does not sugarcoat the realities of slavery or life in the 19th century either. Sarah's Wish would be an excellent book to add to a study of the pre-Civil War days or the Underground Railroad. I found nothing questionable (profanity, etc.) in this book, which is a huge plus, I would say.

Sarah's Wish, itself, is a wonderful addition to a family bookshelf, but Mr. Baumgardner offers even more! You can check out his website at http://www.sarahbooks.net/index.html and find all sorts of good stuff, including additional background information to aid readers, author info, and how to sign up for his Sarah's Web email newsletter. There's even a homeschool link (yea!).

What I appreciate the very most about Mr. Baumgardner and Sarah's Wish is the obvious commitment to faith in this work of historic fiction. Of course, our daily study of the Bible, God's Word, cannot be replaced by human stories and accounts, and we are told to "test everything" in 1 Thes. 5:21, but how I appreciate these authors who give us fiction that is meant to encourage us in our faith, who write by the standard of Philippians 4:8! You know, I almost typed that verse out, but, instead, look it up!

Now that I've read Sarah's Wish, I can't wait to find out what happens in Sarah's Promise and Sarah's Escape. You can read excerpts of all three here and order them here. Right now, he offers free shipping on all three. You can also purchase audio versions of both Sarah's Wish and Sarah's Promise. So, head on over to http://www.sarahbooks.net/index.html or to the TOS Crew Blog to find out more!

A New Angle to Study By With the STUDYPOD Book Holder....

2009-09-23T01:05:00.000-07:00

Just about the size of a library book, the STUDYPOD Book Holder's dimensions are just one aspect of its convenient and useful nature. As its name implies, the STUDYPOD is a portable book holder that can accomodate books up to 2.25" in diameter. Designed by a teacher with the input of students, it is meant to fit easily into a backpack, to be taken out and used almost anywhere to hold books at a comfortable angle while students read and work.
I think most all of us remember trying to juggle the space and find the right angle on a conventional school desk to fit the books and papers we needed to complete our assignments. Remember that ache in your neck and back from hunching over our work area? Now, the scenario is somewhat different as students are working in front of screens as well. The STUDYPOD can help in both scenarios. As a tool to hold books upright, it not only allows students more room to work at a traditional desk, it also holds what is being read at a more comfortable angle for reading. Notice the differences in the two images below.

How does it work? Check out the YouTube video below which explains exactly how to set up and use the STUDYPOD BookHolder.

Okay, how is the STUDYPOD Book Holder useful for our family? Here are a few of the uses, other than the main one of personal book holder, I've discovered for here in our homeschool:

as a music holder (our keyboard's music rack broke years ago)
to hold books open at an angle both students can see as I teach
to hold both papers or books at the computer as I work

What's the cost? Normally, one STUDYPOD Book Holder costs $19.95 on the website, while you can buy two or more at $16.95 apiece. As a special deal for readers of the Crew members' blogs, you can use the code TOSBLOG5 to save $5 on your online order. The STUDYPOD comes in black, blue, and pink. And you can check out their warranty here.

I just saw something neat on their website. They have information available about how to sell the STUDYPOD as a fundraiser and how to become a STUDYPOD affiliate. Sounds like an idea to check out.

So, if you are in need of a tool to help you make more efficient use of your school or study space, one that is sturdy, portable, and able to hold a variety of texts and papers, check out the STUDYPOD Book Holder at their website here or in the reviews of other Crew members here.

Get It Together With the Sue Patrick Workbox System!

2009-09-18T01:17:00.000-07:00

Am I naturally organized? No. Therefore, as a former public school teacher and current homeschool one, one of my perpetual professional goals has been to reduce the number of piles in my learning environment. Because whether or not it comes naturally, orderliness matters in education. Each year of my teaching career (yes, homeschooling is still a career!), I try to get a little better at it, try to incorporate new ideas that fit our situation. As the title of this blog implies, we are homeschooling in a barn, until we get the "real" house built. (So, are we barnschoolers? Are there such?) Space is at a premium, and anything not being used now goes upstairs to the attic. I don't have room for piles or clutter in the kitchen/classroom. So, how timely that the TOS Crew is reviewing the Sue Patrick Workbox System!

What is the Sue Patrick Workbox System? Well, Sue has spent the last 11 years developing and honing this approach to homeschooling. She brings to the program her own commitment as a mother to give her children the most productive learning environment and procedures she can. The Sue Patrick Workbox System is more than an organizational tool. It provides:

directions for creating a learning environment that truly fosters learning

daily procedures that lead to less wasted time, more motivation to complete assignments, and fosters the development of independence in students

guidance in creating an organized learning system for all ages from preschool to high school

information and admonishment which explains and clarifies what homeschooling is and is not all about

What she provides is very thorough directions and guidelines, as well as templates that coordinate with each part of the Workbox System. The supplies this system calls for are not expensive and are readily available at Walmart, Target, and even many dollar stores. The benefits to both teacher and student are potentially tremendous as the stress of clutter and lost time is replaced by the peacefulness and productivity of orderliness.

Let's talk about customizing the Workbox System. How flexible is it? We all have different learning environments--some have an entire room in their home devoted to school, while there are many of us who squeeze school and its supplies anywhere we can in the house. The Workbox System would work in either scenario. While Mrs. Patrick stresses the need for a student's own work area, that doesn't at all mean you're committing to a home makeover to achieve that. If you have room for your student(s) to have a small, quiet work space set up, you can use and benefit from the Workbox System.

What ages is the Workbox System appropriate for? All. Okay, I can only speak for me, but, as stated above, organization doesn't come naturally to me. I also grew up in the public school system, taking advanced and honors classes. I'm a perfectionist. I struggle with procrastination. Those aren't an easy combination of characteristics to manage! Imagine the image of a teenage girl up in the middle of the night sitting on the floor with stacks of paper all around searching for a Calculus assignment due the next day or staying up all night long to begin and finish a months-long assignment for an Honors English class, turning in the assignment (an A, by the way) but unable to make it to class because I was exhausted. I needed the Workbox System!

I think it's safe to assume that I'm not the only one for whom organization is a learned skill. Younger students need to learn the skills the Workbox System nurtures. Self motivation, seeing a task through to completion, self pacing, and the ability to work independently are all crucial learning and life skills. The actual structure of the the learning environment the program describes is conducive to fostering these skills. Teens, as well, with all the extracurricular interests they are developing, can benefit from the structure and visual nature of Sue Patrick's Workbox System. There are very few situations more frustrating than the out of control feeling of being swamped and now even knowing for sure what all you need to get done. In college, I was so very blessed to have a part-time job as a tutor and student coach. Much of our training had to do with study and time management skills. As I learned how to help others, I realized how much stress I could eliminate by simply taking the time needed to give everything its own space and time. With each year I taught, I think I was more effective because those skills continued to develop. As I learned through training and the example of others, I added organizational tools to my routines and classroom that not only eliminated much wasted time and frustration; it gave me the opportunity to use that time for study or activities which enriched the time my students spent in my class.

What's the commitment and investment here? Well, the commitment entails taking the time to really read The User's Guide after paying for it, and, again, taking the time to really follow the direction Mrs. Patrick so carefully explains. This isn't a program that you can use here and there--to experience the benefits of the Workbox System, you've got to be willing to use it daily and correctly. Now, does that mean you have to do every single thing like Mrs. Patrick suggests? No! While she offers very specific and thorough guidelines for Workbox System use, you can tweak the program to fit the ages of your students, their learning abilities, strengths, and weaknesses, the space of your learning environment, and your budget. Speaking of that, you can spend less than $25 per student on supplies for the Workbox System. You can also go all out and spend way more. You can click here to view how the Workbox System takes on different forms and price tags for different users, yet retains the same basic setup.

What do you actually get from Sue Patrick? You have options here:

For $19, you can buy the ebook version of The Sue Patrick Workbox System User's Guide, which also gives you permission to download various tips and templates which go with the program. You buy your own supplies.

The print version of the User's Guide is also available for $19.95.

For $119.95, you can purchase four months of personalized email consulting with Sue Patrick as well as the ebook of the User's Guide. You still buy your own supplies with this one.

For an even more indepth consulting package that includes a classroom kit, click here.

To check out all the books and supplies offered, click here to go to the online catalog.

Okay, am I using the Workbox system? Not in its entirety. I took a lot of time getting our school organized for this year, and I can't justify chunking what's working to buy different supplies. However, I am planning to go to this system for next year. And in the meantime, I have learned quite a bit from the User's Guide that I can incorporate into what we're doing this year. As I read, Mrs. Patrick really made me think and examine the effects of my organizational and time management practices. And I am making changes. And when I do use it more fully next year, I will tweak it to some extent to fit us and my own educational philosophy.

Can I recommend this product? Yes. It is as cost efficient as you make it to be, and as beneficial as you're willing to make it through taking the time, energy, and attention it takes to do it right. So, head on over to the Sue Patrick Workbox System website to learn more and watch an informational video or to the TOS Crew blog to read the reviews of other Crew members.

Subscribe to The Old Schoolhouse Magazine for only $7.95!!

2009-09-07T18:49:00.000-07:00

Homeschooling is a Labor of Love, and the Old Schoolhouse™ Magazine is celebrating your hard work as a parent by putting their one-year print subscriptions on sale! For a very limited time, you can subscribe or renew for $7.95! (US only). International customers can subscribe to the digital edition for only 7.95!

You can buy a gift sub for friends, too! To gift a subscription:

1. Go to the one-year subscription page (uS only)

2. Scroll to the bottom of the page.

3. Enter the name, address, email, and phone information for each recipient

4. click "Add this to my cart".
5. The information will display in your cart and simply proceeed to check out.

There are only 2000 of these available, and they are going quickly! Your subscription begins with their Fall Issue.If you live in an international location, you can subscribe to their digital edition for only $7.95! It's the same great content as their print magazine, except it is instant and interactive!

Click here to subscribe to the print version (for U.S. residents).

For international digital subscriptions, click here.

Learn Basic HTML with Web Design for Kids (....and Curious Grownups!)

2009-08-29T05:07:00.001-07:00

I'll join the ranks of the other TOS Crew members who admitted the idea of learning html, not to mention learning it in front of our students and children, seemed more than a little bit intimidating. But, like the others, my apprehension in taking the plastic off Web Design for Kids (...and Curious Grownups!) was totally unfounded. In just a few minutes, I was able to create a very basic web page following the instructions presented in the DVD.

Brian Richardson, the middle school computer teacher who facilitates this process, does so at a pace that is not difficult to follow and with the intuition to stop and explain terms and procedures that may be unfamiliar to his students. For example, before even beginning the lessons in writing HTML, he took the time to explain how to create a folder for my new web design files. I had never created a folder on purpose that I remember. And, then, taking baby steps, he led his audience through typing ten lines of HTML code.

This is where I got stuck for a minute or two. I knew I had typed everything just as he had and had rechecked my work to be sure, but I couldn't bring up the same boldly-colored page as the middle school kids on the dvd. As teachers, don't we remind our students to follow ALL the directions? Therein lay my problem...I had missed a direction. Even though I had gone off on my own rabbit trail trying to figure out what I'd done, I was still able to pick right up with the dvd.

Brian guides his students through the following steps in the dvd program (from the dvd cover):

basic HTML code for titles, headers, and body of web pages

making text move across the screen

adding pictures

coloring letters and backgrounds

In each section of the dvd, he emphasizes attention to detail and reviews the main points of the previous lessons. With the entire dvd running about an hour and twenty minutes, it can easily be divided into shorter lessons for younger students.

So, who can benefit from Web Design for Kids (...and Curious Grownups!)? I would say anyone with basic keyboarding proficiency, since you really need to be able to type to keep up with him, unless you don't mind pausing the dvd whenever he displays the screen. (And that really isn't too far-fetched if you want to try this at a slower pace for younger students.) His instructions are clear and simple enough for young elementary level students, I think. In the FAQ section of his site, Brian suggests ages 8+. He uses terms that are catchy and visual for kids. Since it's not a curriculum with specified goals, that frees you up to determine your own, or to just see how much you and your students can learn. In utilizing this with my own first and second graders, I plan to just focus on learning the first ten lines of HTML code that he introduces to begin with, and then see how far they can go. As for us parents and teachers, don't be intimidated by the idea of unraveling all those >, <, and abbreviations--you can do it, and even if you don't plan to create your own web pages from scratch, knowledge of basic HTML code will enhance and expand what you can do with blogs, too.

I consider this product an excellent springboard for further computer and technology studies and projects. While there are web sites with similar information available, what makes Web Design for Kids (....and Curious Grownups!) special is the format. Like I said above, Brian Richardson knows how to teach this stuff in a way that regular people can understand. It's a lot like having a computer tech teacher in the living room.

Go over to their website at http://www.webdesignforkids.net/ and check out the sample they offer as well as the testimonials. Right now, Web Design for Kids (....and Curious Grownups!) is on sale, too, marked down to $19.99, from $40. Y'all, here we are at the beginning of another school year, and for many, $19.99 is not easy, even if it is a great deal. As I write these reviews, I am always very aware of the fact that we all are trying to use our dollars in the most productive ways. How about this--if you like what you see on the site, but money is tight, what about going together with a friend to purchase this dvd? Okay, I'm going to throw this out--most of our homeschool coops and resource groups have curriculum and resource libraries--this should be in it. The website also contains information about why he created this dvd, FAQ's, his hopes for helping others through his business, and a page with info about ordering. After checking out Brian's site, whether or not you decide to purchase the dvd, be blessed and motivated by the proof of Brian's pledge to be a blessing with the profits of his business. You can actually see scans of the first checks he made out to five charities. I personally love that that particular page of his site begins with scripture. This guy has got the right idea in his business mission plan.

Whether just curious or wanting to provide quality computer instruction that your students will actually use, Web Design for Kids (....and Curious Grownups!) is truly worth checking out!

--all images in this post taken from http://www.webdesignforkids.net/ .

Quarter Mile Math Update--new prices in effect!

2009-08-18T04:02:00.000-07:00

I received an email concerning some news over at The Quarter Mile Math--here you go!
They now have some options for subscribing to the Deluxe version:

$2.95 per family per month
$19.95 per family for one year (save $15.45 over one year)
$34.95 per family for two years (save $35.85 over two years).

There is also a new section, “For Homeschoolers”, which you can access from the homepage. This section will have all sorts of helps for homeschoolers using The Quarter Mile Math, including a forum to see how others are using the program and setup help for getting started. You can also sign up to receive email updates. Y'all, it really has a lot you need to check out if you're using or thinking about purchasing The Quarter Mile Math program.

Like I said in my original review of this product, you'll see more about as the year progresses!

More from Grapevine Studies, the Level 1 New Testament Overview

2009-08-18T01:28:00.000-07:00

In addition to reviewing the Level 1 Old Testament Overview, I have also been very fortunate to have the opportunity to review the Level 1 New Testament Overview from Grapevine Studies. And after spending time with this curriculum, I am looking forward to using it in our homeschool as part of our Bible program for our kids. Before digging into my review, I want to state this:

There is absolutely no part of your homeschool curriculum that warrants the examination, prayer, and dedication that the Bible component does. It is the core of not only the homeschool, but the home, and should spill over into all the other subjects in one way or another. Having said that, I encourage you to carefully and prayerfully choose and implement your Bible curriculum, testing each lesson against God's Word. There is no perfect manmade curriculum, but the Word of God is.

The Level 1 New Testament Overview begins with a general review of the events of the Old Testament that lead up to the birth of Christ, with the students using simple symbols and stick figures to illustrate the highlights. The curriculum then takes the students from this point through the years of His ministry, His death, burial, and resurrection, the early years of the church, to the final judgment.

As with the Old Testament Overview, users are encouraged to go through the New Testament Overview at the pace of one lesson per week. Each lesson includes these components:

illustration of the main events/points through simple symbols and stick figures

lesson review

creation of character/event summary card

scripture memorization and review of scriptures from previous lessons

placement of each lesson within the overall timeline of the New Testament

The teacher's version includes background readings for each lesson, as well as helps in leading the lessons. However, the writer of this curriculum, Dianna Wiebe, encourages the teacher to also customize each lesson. I really appreciate that because that our Bible curriculum should be dynamic and should be fit to the students we see before us. Oh, before I forget, the teacher's version of this actually includes both Level 1 and Level 2, which is a real plus, I think, especially if you're like me and have different ages sitting around the table. You can check out sample pages from the teacher version here.

As the students move through the lessons, the components of each lesson--the art, the color choices, the visualization of the chronology of Bible events, the scripture memorization, and review questions--all work together to reinforce real learning. The art is uncluttered by detail, consisting of simple symbols and stick figures, so the students can focus on the meat of the lessons, rather than on their own artistic abilities. In each lesson, the events of the preceding lessons are reviewed, as well as the scriptures the students have memorized. I love this aspect of this curriculum--that as we move forward, we hold tightly to what has already been learned. I think it's great how the format of this program stresses knowledge in context as the students are repeatedly drawing events in their correct spots in the chronology of the New Testament.

Okay, now I want to address a common and extremely valid point when it comes to Bible curriculum. Those of us who fall under the category of Christian homeschoolers do not agree on every subject--no big surprise there, I know. When I go to choose material for our Bible curriculum, I want resources which do not conflict with my core beliefs. How does this one stack up to that? First, I want to share that the creators state within the curriculum in their statement of faith the following:

"Grapevine Studies is please to be able to provide Bible curriculum to a variety of
denominations. Our unique teacher-directed doctrinal approach provides a platform for each teacher/parent to explain their specific doctrines as they come up with in each lesson."

I am very impressed with their obvious dedication to this. At this point, I have found only two issues which I will be modifying our teaching of. I mention this for two reasons, one being my conscience and the other to demonstrate how this curriculum is adaptible and stresses the teacher's own Bible study. One issue is baptism, which, after my own personal study of the New Testament I believe to be more closely linked to salvation than is expressed in the curriculum. The other is the millenium. Again, our family has different beliefs regarding the chronology of the final times. Is this a criticism of the program? Not at all--partly, my conscience demanded I share that, and also, I want to stress that this curriculum is geared to encourage and take into account the teacher's own Bible study. The authors encourage parents to be in the Word and to customize the curriculum. Isn't that one of the privileges of homeschooling? To be able to share with our children what we find in the Word of God, to guide them to know Him and His Word.

The Level 1 New Testament Overview is a 50-lesson curriculum, and, as stated above, the lessons can be paced to about one per week. Who is this appropriate for? The Grapevine Studies site places this curriculum in the 6-8 year old age range, but I think you can go a little younger or a little older depending on the student. I have found it is easily adaptible to both my 5-year-old emerging reader and my 6-year-old independent reader. Both really get excited about the drawing involved in the Grapevine Studies products, and the material is age-appropriate.

You can find out more about ordering and the different print and ebook formats available to purchase by going to the Grapevine Studies website. Click here to go directly to a list of New Testament Overview options, including Level 1. They offer several levels, so you can choose what best fits your group of students. Since I've been reviewing the Level 1 version, let me share that it's on sale for $20.75 (print, dent and ding version), as you'll see when you click on the link above. By the way, Dianna was very helpful and offered me some useful advice in choosing which level to get for our kids. I really appreciate is that the teacher book contains both Levels 1 and 2, and it's on sale right now, too, for $28.75 for the print dent and ding version. The ebook version is what I have, and it's only $22.95. It's nice to have options! Here's a link to the teacher versions right here. The website has a contact page which you can access here if you have questions about the curriculum or which level to purchase.

You can head on over to the Grapevine Studies website here to check out what they offer and over to the TOS Crew Blog here to find out what others have to say about this and other Grapevine Studies products.

One more thing! Grapevine Studies has very graciously and generously shared this offer with the TOS Crew and our blog readers. You can use the code CREWS to get 30% off all their books until September 15!

A tool in building the most important foundation....the Grapevine Studies Old Testament overview

2009-08-15T22:11:00.000-07:00

As a family, we take on a multi-faceted group identity comprised of the varied interests and experiences of five people. While those interests and experiences will vary and intensify and wane and bring us together and pull us apart in our cycles of involvement, there is one constant that is our foundation and our destination, our peace and our hope. Of course, I'm referring to our faith in God, our hope of salvation through His Son, Jesus Christ. Even our journey in homeschooling is centered in this. This is the core of our identity and what matters most. So I am very pleased to share our experience and thoughts concerning both the Level 1 Old Testament and New Testament Overviews from Grapevine Studies. These are two distinct studies and, as such, warrant two reviews. In this one I will focus on the Old Testament overview.

Bible study has been part of our children's lives from the beginning. We have read and prayed together and tried to point to the presence and work of God in our lives from those infant days. However, in the past few months, I have begun to realize that they're ready to dig deeper in our studies. So, how excited I was to receive the word that the TOS Crew would have an opportunity to review the curricula offered through Grapevine studies. As I have spent time with the Level 1 Old Testament Overview curriculum, I can see that our use of this as part of our Bible curriculum will lead to more retention of the specifics and the ability to take the stories and comprehend them in their correct place in the chronology of God's Word.

The creator of this series, Dianna Wiebe, begins with the "inspiration", two scriptures which remind parents of their role in teaching their children about God.

Deuteronomy 6:4-7

Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one! You shall love the Lord your God with all
your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. And these words which I command
you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall
talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and
when you rise up.

Psalm 78:4b-7

…Telling to the generation to come the praises of the Lord, and His strength and His
wonderful works that He has done. For He established a testimony in Jacob, and appointed
a law in Israel, which He commanded our fathers, that they should make them known to
their children; that the generation to come might know them, the children who would be
born, that they may arise and declare them to their children, that they may set their hope in
God, and not forget the works of God, but keep His commandments.

As the Old Testament Overview curriculum moves forward, then, the admonition within those scriptures is the motivation.

In a nutshell, this curriculum is summed up by the way Dianna's own catch phrase, "Serving Him through stick figures". The first several days are spent building a timeline of the highlights of the Old Testament, using simple symbols and stick figures. From that point, the students back up and study each event in greater detail. Once again, for the most part, they are using simple picture symbols and stick figures to illustrate the main points within each event. When words are needed, they are to be kept as concise as possible. Before moving on, each lesson is reviewed and done so in the context of its place in the timeline. Each lesson also includes scripture memorization. You can check out a sample of this curriculum and how it's set up here.

Teachers are encouraged not to rush through the material, but rather to take one lesson per week, allowing plenty of time to really focus on each part. Within each lesson, students will create a timeline of main events, work on scripture memorization, review the lesson in terms of its place in the overall Old Testament time line, and spend time in review of previous lessons and other scriptures memorized.

What do I think about the Level 1 Old Testament Overview from Grapevine Studies? Understanding the Old Testament is a key to appreciating and understanding and reverencing the God who spans both Testaments. I truly can say I love how this curriculum is set up, constantly reviewing as it moves forward, constantly reinforcing real learning of the material. As the kids participate in each lesson, they do so in a multisensory manner, with their eyes, ears, and hands involved. The use of words, lines, symbols, and color all together enhance retention in each lesson. The slower pace encouraged in this curriculum is great, and I think it allows time to really focus on each component of the lessons, maximizing learning potential. And teachers are encouraged and admonished to be diligent in their own study and preparation and prayer, and to customize each lesson to the ages, abilities, and needs are their individual students.

This curriculum is available in either an e-book format ($24.95) or good old fashioned paper format, and right now the paper version is on sale for $20.95, both the 3-hole and softbound versions. Click here to check out all versions. Click here to check out the deals on the teacher book, the paper version of which is also on sale right now for $28.95, with the e-book listed for $22.95.

You can also learn more about the products offered by Grapevine Studies at the TOS Crew blog.

While I can only offer reviews of the Old and New Testament Overviews, I do encourage you to spend some time on the Grapevine Studies website. There is no more important subject in the education of our children than instruction in God's Word, and I encourage you above all else to seek His guidance and wisdom every day in this.

Chomping at the bit....Racing With The Quarter Mile Math program...

2009-08-06T03:13:00.000-07:00

Before I get started here, I want to say there will more reviews to follow of this one as our school year progresses and we use this product on a daily basis.

When I was teaching in the public and private school sectors, for most of those years I was in the fourth grade. I saw first hand the struggles of my students who did not already have a strong foundation in the basics, such as their addition and subtraction facts. While our curriculum's schedule indicated it was time to move on to more advanced skills, their progress was stunted by a shaky base. We spent a whole lot of time in review and remediation. And I still supplemented our core curriculum with plenty of practice in the basics for those who were on track, too. Those years impressed upon me the need for consistent, heaping-sized amounts of practice in the core math concepts for all students. We don't stop giving our kids milk and juice just because they progress to table foods. They need it all. It's the same with math. It goes back to a saying I used to post in my classroom, "In order to do great things, one must do small things well."

Now, as a homeschooling teacher with lower elementary students, one of my primary goals in our math program is to build that solid foundation, to provide and insist upon lots and lots of practice in the basics. We have used a mix of worksheets, flashcards, and computer games and drills. The drawback to those computer games, which I've found on the internet, though, is that unless I sit right beside each one and keep score, I don't have a printable record of their progress. Until now.

The TOS Crew has been asked to review Barnum Software's The Quarter Mile Math program. While there are several versions available, our family is now using the Deluxe, Levels 1, 2, and 3 bundle. Before I go into detail, here's the gist of it. As the teacher, I add students and indicate their grade levels. When it's time for a student to race, while older students can follow directions to click on the appropriate subject and topic, the teacher would need to do so for pre- or beginning reading students. Once they get to the race, though, even my three-year-old can click on the green "start race" button. The races are simply very straightforward drills in a number of math, alphabetic, and keyboarding skills. The faster the student answers correctly, the faster their horse or car will go to finish the race. In the beginning, they race against the fictional Fast Eddy until they accumulate their own scores to compete against. There is also a mode for racing against other students. As they complete races, their five highest scores are saved and averaged.

The Quarter Mile Math was very simple to install on our computer, which has Windows XP. I did catch my breath momentarily when my desktop suddenly changed to a higher resolution when I started the program for the first time. That is harmless, however, just the monitor and the program getting on the same page, so to speak. It works fine, and the user's guide explains an alternate method of installation for those who do have display issues concerning their monitor and the program's resolution. A representative for The Quarter Mile Math informed me that this has only occurred three times to their knowledge, but they still included the information regarding the glitch and the fix in the user's guide just in case. If you've read my pattern review below, you already know I like to be able to get things done as quickly as possible, which means I often jump ahead before reading things like user's guides. I actually did read a paragraph that was circled on the installation notes. In this case, though, the program itself was self-explanatory as far as getting all my students added and ready to race. (By the way, I did go back and spend a big chunk of time with the user's guide.)

Over the past few days, the kids and I have explored several subjects and topics within the program. While the problems differ, the format and procedure is the same. In our case, I added my 3, 5, and 6-year olds, as well as myself, as students. Upon starting the program, a student signs in with a password, which can be changed, they choose a subject and topic, and have the option to choose either a riderless horse or dragster race before they click "start race". There are 323 topics in all, and they are organized by subject and level. The Deluxe Version contains all the topics in the The Quarter Mile Math levels 1, 2, and 3, and over 70,000 problems within these topics. The extensive list of subjects include:

Numbers and letters
Whole numbers
Introduction to fractions
Fractions
Decimals
Percents
Math Strategies
Estimation
Integers
Equations

Once the student (or teacher) chooses a subject followed by one of the topics within that subject, they are ready to race. Each race is executed in the same manner. One problem at a time will appear at the bottom of the screen. Upon clicking "start race", the first problem will appear. As soon as the student answers this one correctly, their horse or car takes off with screeching tires or thundering hooves (volume is easily adjusted, by the way). For each correct answer, their speed increases. And the kids can actually see this as their horse or car pulls away from or lags behind the others in the race. At the end of the race, their time, speed, and rank is displayed. Like I said above, in the first race within a new topic, they race against Fast Eddy, and most likely the student will come in first. As they accumulate scores, these scores become their competitors in subsequent races. This challenges the student to always strive for a faster time, which they can accomplish by getting more answers correct more quickly. I've noticed that the more advanced topics also have longer racing periods, whereas the lower levels have shorter races, which is appropriate when you consider the ages of the students who will most likely be taking each drill.

There is also an option in the program for racing against the times of other students. The students do not race simultaneously but race against each other's times. That way they get the motivation without the intimidation at this point.

The Quarter Mile Math program does not automatically move students from one level to the next, and that is intentional. At any point, any student can take any drill on the program. At first, I thought of this as more of a disadvantage, but not after consideration of the why's behind this. There are times when an upper level students needs to hone basic skills. Some students might be tempted to and capable of manipulating their racing times just enough to stay in a lower level while improving their averages. Teachers can customize the pace of the program and use multiple avenues of assessment outside of the program to determine what skills a students needs to work on, not just how well they are performing within this program.

Okay, about troubleshooting....this program has the potential for some rare glitches with some operating systems, and they acknowledge this and provide alternate methods in the user's guide. In fact, I was informed by a rep for the program that it's only actually happened 3 times to their knowledge, but they are proactive in providing a solution should it occur again. And they have very prompt customer service as well. Yesterday, as my younger daughter was racing, we needed to escape during a race. According to the guide, that's fine--that particular race just won't be saved. Well, for a little bit after that, the program wouldn't let her sign in, saying she already was on another computer. I bypassed this by setting up another student name for her, which wasn't a big deal since we're still just getting to know the progrm. I used the contact email to ask about this issue, and within just a few hours had received an email from a real person addressing my concern and offering an explanation and solution that made sense and resolved the issue! Both thumbs up here!

Now that we've gone over what The Quarter Mile Math program is and how to use it, what do I think about it? I don't usually use pros/cons lists, but I need to for this one.

Pros

The program is easy to install.
The racing format provides for straightforward skills practice uncluttered by complicated directions.
Has races for students of all ages, even preschool. (I know it is marketed for up to grade 9, but I think even upper level math students would benefit from the skills drills. I know this 34-year-old teacher plans to freshen up and speed up my own skills!)
Scores can be tracked and printed.
Students get the motivation and satisfaction of competition without the intimidation that sometimes accompanies it.
My kids beg to race and argue about taking turns.
The program covers a wide spectrum of crucial math skills, organized by subject, topic, and level.
The Quarter Mile Math gives permission to purchasers to install the program on multiple computers, even in other locations, so students can race even if they're away from home.
The customer service is prompt, human, and helpful.
Barnum Software acknowledges the potential for glitches on certain operating systems and already has solutions in place.
It is aligned to many state educational standards. Click here to check for your state.
Barnum Software offers an unconditional 30-day money-back guarantee.

Cons

The program has the potential for rare glitches with some operating systems. (see end of pros)
When one student hits "quit", it shuts down the whole program. Not a huge deal, but the next student has to wait for the program to start again, which only takes a few seconds. And the customer service from The Quarter Mile Math informed me that this can be avoided by simply having the next student sign in without the first one hitting "quit".
This program truly is just a practice program. It is not designed to be used in a way that can really reflect a grade. The Quarter Mile Math provides an average of the best 5 times, along with what drills were taken, how many times, and how many items were answered. Since it only accepts correct answers, keeping a percentage of correct answers isn't possible.

I can't put the cost issue under either of those headings. What is a bargain to one may be a tight stretch to another. And, at this point in our family's use of The Quarter Mile Math Deluxe Version program, I don't feel qualified to suggest someone go out and commit to a purchase of this amount. In favor of the program, I can offer this testimonial at this point:

My older daughter is the dream student of a traditional classroom teacher, with a love for worksheets and an amazing capacity for memorizing bits of data quickly and logically. She also had an incredibly strong desire to succeed. My younger daughter is every bit as smart and perceptive but she learns in a totally different way. She thinks outside the box, and can sythesize the ideas she latches onto into a bigger, often extremely complex concept. But that little girl is very seldom still and her brain functions best with concepts that involve memorization and repetition when she is involved through multiple senses or emotionally. The Quarter Mile Math meets those specifications. She is emotionally tied through the desire to win, and running each race involves more of her senses than a worksheet or flashcard as she experiences the realistic sounds and vibrant colors and sees the numbers on the keyboard as she answers. In just a few days, I have seen improvement in her addition skills.

I do suggest you go to the website, watch the videos,download the demo version, and take the time to read carefully and really become familiar with what is offered. There are a number of parent and teacher testimonials on the website, also, and I failed to mention until now that the Sylvan Learning Centers have made the Levels 1, 2, and 3 Bundle part of their math curriculum in all 1,100 of their locations.

I also recommend checking out other reviews of this product over at the TOS Crew blog.

Let me offer this rundown of prices before I proceed. You can view prices and make online purchases through their website here. Hey, if you want to order any of the standard versions, click on the standard side of the the page, and you will be taken to a form that lists all the standard versions.

The Quarter Mile Math: Level 1, 2, or 3 bought separately $39.95

The Quarter Mile Math: Levels 1,2 or 2,3 bundles $64.95

The Quarter Mile Math: Levels 1, 2, and 3 bundle (standard version) $89.95

The Deluxe Version of the Levels 1, 2, and 3 bundle is a subscription purchase of $2.95 a month that includes additional features not found in the standard one. To view these features, click here. This is the version I am reviewing.

There you have it....The Quarter Mile Math program from Barnum Software. I need to go--I've got to free up this chair before the next race begins!

Simplicity, innocence, and beauty in Sense & Sensibility Patterns...

2009-08-05T05:10:00.000-07:00

When the TOS Crew got the word that we could choose to review the girls' Edwardian apron pattern from Sense & Sensibility, I jumped at the chance. Just this past year I discovered the world of heirloom patterns as I planned the girls' Easter dresses, and I have to admit, I think I'm hooked. In a world that fails to value innocence, even in the fashions of our little girls, it is a blessing to find these patterns that help me dress my daughters in a modest, beautiful manner.

I traveled on over to the Sense & Sensibility website and found a wealth of resources and options and helps, from a well-rounded line of patterns organized by era to sewing classes you can take online to guide through the process of making several of the garments in this line. Jennie Chancey, the creator of Sense & Sensibility, also offers photo instructions which you can access through her website for many of her patterns. And who can resist a link for $1 items? On Fridays, she offers a freebie in that section also!

When I bought the pattern for the girls' Easter dresses, I had chosen one particular one and then scoured the Internet for the best deal on it. I could have saved $5 if I'd known about Sense & Sensibility's girls' patterns and their e-pattern option. And nowadays, with the cost of fabric and notions so high, I appreciate saving a little bit here and there throughout the process.

Anyway, let's talk about this girls' Edwardian apron pattern and the e-class that you can purchase with it. The e-pattern version is $7.95, the paper one is $12.95, the e-class is $19.95, or you can save a little bit and choose the e-pattern/e-class bundle for $24.95. You can find out more about each option and make purchases through any of the apron links throughout this post.

Let's get this out in the open first, though..... I am an impatient seamstress. With time and experience, I'm getting way better, but, oh, the seams I've had to take out, and the half-finished monsters I've had to put out of my sight because of my own need for speed! I blame my mom--truly, we would go to bed the night before Easter with two unopened patterns and two stacks of fabric on the table and would awake for midnight fittings and then find beautiful Easter dresses come morning. I now wonder, how did she do it, year after year? Anyway, I didn't really begin sewing until I was in my late twenties and had someone to sew for of my own. How my appreciation for my mother and grandmother has grown as I've labored and learned and alternately cried or bragged to my husband over mistakes or successes! I'm learning, though, the value and time that can be saved with prudence in my case, so I sat down to watch the e-class before even choosing my fabric. That was three weeks ago. I got sleepy (because moms who live in barns with a herd of children only get to watch e-classes when the herd is bedded down), so I had to stop at twelve minutes into it. Fast forward through the next few weeks of stomach bug attacks followed by respiratory infections among all the inhabitants here, and this week, I'm just getting a chance to get back to my apron class and pattern.

So, I did finally get to sit through the class to the conclusion. I had to open the sound in a separate window, which was no big deal, and then Jennie narrated each of the 57 slides that detail the construction of the garment. Actually, it's a plus that she does the sound separately because I could jump up and back a picture or two as she talked, helping me to better understand what I'd be doing. I started to close those windows before the question session at the end, but I'm glad I didn't--those girls asked some questions that turned out to be very helpful. The class takes about 45 minutes.

Since I'm reviewing the e-pattern version, it was on to printing out the directions and pattern. For me, saving $5 in purchasing the e-version would have more than made up for the time it took to then piece together the pattern. And Jennie provides directions for laying them out. My sweet husband was very accomodating about having to step around my puzzle in the kitchen floor to get to his breakfast before work. For anyone concerned about the accurate sizing of e-pattern pieces, Jennie provides a test page to make sure your printer is printing at 100% of her pieces's sizes.

The directions, to me, were much easier to understand and deal with than the oversized ones that come with McCall's or Simplicity. Jennie is a very intuitive teacher and provides instructions and tips that really are helpful for those of us who still have a lot to learn. She demonstrates in the class and explains in the patterns how to make your own binding, which I intended to do and had started on, but then I found a package of store-bought in my notions box that matched perfectly. While we're talking binding, the pattern has a calculation error about how much binding to have, but she made sure to send an email with the correction and an apology, and I noticed she points it out on the website, too.

Once everything was cut out, I just took the directions a step at a time. I always feel intimidated by a new pattern until I dig into it, and this one honestly just flowed really well. The instructions are accompanied by hand-drawn illustrations which are captioned and easy to understand. With interruptions to continue our daily life around here, I was still able to complete the apron in one day. I was putting together the pattern pieces at dawn and cutting off the last hanging strings about ten last night.

Front and back views of the finished product last night. Both my models were pleased with the result. I do want to add here that I made it by a size 6 and was able to accomodate both girls, which are about 15 lbs. and five inches apart, by adjusting the how much of the straps were pulled through the side loops. The length still worked for both. Hey, y'all, in the back view, it may look like my hem wasn't even--I'm pretty sure it is in real life!

I'll say this, too. It's a forgiving pattern--even with Jennie's email about the binding length error, I had made one too many mistakes and didn't have quite enough of my cute store-bought binding. But I was able to improvise with the same eyelet lace I used along the hem, around the top. Also, with children, even when you measure, there can still be the need to make adjustments. The way this apron is pieced, it would not be difficult to make small alterations in size after the garment was constructed--that's a big plus.

If a beginner has an experienced seamstress to provide guidance, I think this would be a fun, satisfying shared project. I also think that if a beginner wanted to do it alone, they could if they went ahead and purchased the e-class as well and paid very close attention to each step. For anyone with experience in making little girls' clothes, this pattern should not be difficult.

Honestly, I had fun making this apron and went ahead and cut out two at the same time, so I now have the fabric ready to begin the second. This would be a really sweet birthday or Christmas gift for a young girl, and Sense & Sensibility offers an adult and doll version (when you click on this link, scroll down just a little) as well, so mom, daughter, and doll can match!

After successfully constructing the girls' Edwardian apron, I am looking forward to my next Sense & Sensibility project. Jennie actually has some dress patterns that I think would coordinate really well with the apron. I do want to make it clear that while these patterns may initially seem old-fashioned and appropriate for children or reenactment purposes, many of them would make out to be beautiful and stylish garments for modern life with the appropriate fabrics and notions. You can check out what others have done with these patterns here.

You can learn more about Sense & Sensibility here at their website or here in the reviews of other TOS Crew members.

From scratch....nutritious and delicious....Sue Gregg.

2009-08-04T12:47:00.000-07:00

Not long after our oldest was born, we began to be concerned about the quality and safety of what we were feeding both her and us. Not that we thought anyone was deliberately poisoning us.... two people who really had never given food more consideration than where and when the next meal was suddenly had a huge reason to care where our food had come from and just exactly how it got into the shape in which we ate it. We began to read up on the subject, and words and phrases like "natural", "organic", and "partially hydrogenated cottonseed oil" began to creep into our dinnertime conversation. In the years since, we've run a pretty wide gamut of shopping and eating practices and have learned through analysis of labels and price tags what works for us as a family. I love how many of our mainstream grocery stores are adding "green" items to their shelves, and I enjoy shopping around to find the best deals on the kind of food I want to feed my family. As we learn and the kids' grow, the items on our shelves and in the refrigerator may change, and we've learned the advantage of keeping compromise and "sometimes-foods" (like cheese enchiladas and hamburgers) in our deck of options.

What it really comes down to for me as the mom, cook, and dishwasher still at this point, is this....I want to find that balance between what is most healthy and nutritious and what these people will actually pick up the fork to eat. So......when I received an email about reviewing a Sue Gregg recipe and cookbook, I was intrigued by what I read. My oldest daughter and I sat down to choose an initial recipe to try out from the ones offered for taste testing on the website, and she took about three seconds to pick out the yogurt pie recipe. We went down the list of ingredients, mentally gauging what items I had and what I'd need to buy and how involved the whole process looked. Totally seemed doable.

Then, the worst cold this side of a northern blizzard hit my bunch. I mean, high nighttime fevers, matted eyes, sore throats, coughing bouts to compete with a hailstorm, and absolutely no appetite. What an eternal two weeks I've had! Those of us with multiple children understand how what would take one child to recover from takes that amount times about two and a half (considering overlapping sick kids) for a family with three to emerge from. The joy I felt when the first began to recover was almost overshadowed by the dark circles and glassy eyes I observed as the third began to wilt. Anyway, none of them have really had much of an appetite for more than crackers and liquids despite my best efforts over the past week.

But today is our first fever-free day for ALL THREE! And these folks are starting to express a little interest in food, so today was the day for our yogurt pie. As I gathered and mixed ingredients, I kept the website up in order to steal glances at the steps and photos. By the way, normally I have plenty of folks wanting to help in the kitchen, and the format of this recipe would provide opportunities for both my second grader, an independent reader, and my first grader, who is almost there, to help me read the recipe. I found the process very simple to understand, and very straightforward.

While I am used to cooking with whole foods and natural ingredients, I had never made a pie like this one. The whole process of getting it ready to pour into the crust took all of ten minutes, just the amount of time called for for the crust to chill in the freezer. Quite convenient. And the ingredients were not difficult to locate. The only one that I was unable to locate in one mainstream grocery store here was the all natural graham crackers, such as the Midel brand, but our discount health food store here carries them. Pause for a shamefaced confession here.....I bought the regular ones simply because with sick people depending on me I needed to consolidate all my shopping into one place this week. I did check to make sure they at least contained some whole grain value.

Anyhow, after letting it chill, it was time to face the judges. I was a little concerned about our youngest's reaction--he's not big on multiple textures in his desserts--but he gobbled it up. Both the girls liked it as well, and they offered more coherent insight into their opinions about it. Both said it was the "lemony" flavor of the pineapple/yogurt combination that they really liked, and the oldest shared that buttery, soft crust was a big plus. Everyone agreed it should make repeat appearances at our table. As for me, the ease of preparation already had me leaning toward liking it, and tasting it confirmed that. This yogurt pie has a lightly rich flavor in a smooth, well-gelled form. The homemade, real butter crust contributes way more to the overall taste than store-bought crust, as the butter makes its presence known in your mouth. After our taste test experience, it was gratifying to put enough back into the frig to cover dessert for two meals for our bunch. The balance between nutrition and cost per serving is always a priority for me when choosing what to serve.

The following suggestion was, I'm sure, inadvertently omitted from the directions on the website, so I will take the liberty of letting you know.

For those of us who believe in taste testing throughout the preparation of desserts, let me assure you this one is one you'll want to be extra sneaky about in order to avoid having to allow others to help you in "licking the bowl". If you have a crew helping you, be sure to have extra spoons ready. And you might want to reduce the amount that goes in the dish by a few spoonfuls, just so you have a little more to spoon out of the bowl.

I'll be honest...sometimes I find myself intimidated by this genre of cooking. While I've learned a lot, I still have a long way to go, but this recipe was practical and realistic for this homeschooling, housecleaning, budgetwatching mom. I hope to try more from the cookbooks of Sue Gregg. And there is a wide variety of resources to choose from, including Introducing Whole Food Cooking, Meals in Minutes, and a cooking curriculum designed for young cooks, Cooking With Children...plus so much more. Mrs. Gregg also has a number of recipes online available for testing, free, to provide the opportunity to see if they work for your family before you purchase a cookbook. So, there's no risk in heading over to check it all out at the Sue Gregg website. In fact, if you head over there, you're bound to be encouraged by her desire to be a witness for Christ even through her cookbooks and cooking resources. You can't beat nourishing to the body and soul all at once.

So many of us today are more aware of what we are actually putting into the mouths of our families and want to make that as wholesome as we can within the the scope of what is available and affordable. The resources available through the Sue Gregg website can help make that desire a reachable daily goal.

Tickled to find Hank!

2009-07-30T16:26:00.000-07:00

When I was teaching in the public school system, I knew Hank by name only. While I knew students headed for his tales of canine heroics and hijinks, I never actually read them myself. Until now. As a member of the TOS Crew, my own crew and I have had the pleasure to review my first Hank the Cowdog selection, Hank the Cowdog: The Case of the One-Eyed Killer Stud Horse, as well as the "Ta les and Tunes from Hank the Cowdog" cd and the Tornado board game.

As the kids and I read, I noticed how John Erickson skillfully wove the language of ranch life into the story in a way that the kids could visualize and understand. And he knows of what he speaks, having spent years as a "real" cowboy. He also manages to sneak in some vocabulary enrichment in a way that doesn't arouse the kids' suspicions that this might be more than just for fun. Basically, they laughed even when they didn't fully understand what they were laughing at, and I got tickled at the dilemmas that Hank's ego led Drover and him into. And, as a parent, I could so identify with the frustrations and mishaps of poor Sallie May. For us, this was a easy, fun rainy day read. While my second grader stumbled over a few words, it was just right for a shared reading experience.

While we thoroughly enjoyed Hank the Cowdog: The Case of the One-Eyed Killer Stud Horse, I do want to mention that poor Hank has to endure some non-life-threatening abuse at the hands of his exasperated owner, somethink akin to the shenanigans of the Looney Toons characters. For us, this did not take away from our enjoyment of the book, but it is important to make sure that the readers or, if it's read aloud, the audience, understand that it is not appropriate or safe or kind to treat pets in this way. There was also a reference to Doggie Hell as, at one point, Hank is not sure about his eternal destination based on his past. I have chosen to stop at this point as we read, for discussion before we proceed. That's just me, but I always want to keep in mind the impressionable nature of my audience.

Who is this book appropriate for? I would say ages 12 and under are the ones who will enjoy it the most and appreciate the humor, as well as parents of this age bracket. It easily lends itself to shared reading for younger readers, but I would say third grade and up should be able to read it independently. I checked, and many of the Hank the Cowdog books are in the Accelerated Reader system, too.

We also have had the chance to listen to the cd "Tales and Tunes from Hank the Cowdog", and it really brings Hank and Drover to life as the listeners hear snippets and songs from a large selection of the Hank the Cowdog books. I was surprised at how long this cd is. Our kids have been battling an awful bug this week, and they enjoyed the Hank cd as they rested. As we take off for vacation soon, Hank will be among our travel cds. Hey, if you order through Hank's website, you can purchase this cd for only $3.

Now, the To rnado game is a blast, in my opinion. Four of us played, from ages 3 up to 34, the first time, and in the past few days, all five of us have at one time or another. In fact, I'm not ashamed to admit my husband and I aren't above a game of Tornado just between the two of us. The instructions, while a little bit involved, are easy to understand and manage to pack together a load of skills for the elementary ages. Some of the skills I noted as we've played are:

recognizing even/odd amounts

making predictions

following multiple directions

counting

multi-tasking

interpersonal skills, such as taking turns, handling setbacks, and being good sports

The gameboard is small enough to easily pack for traveling, and the pieces are sturdy plastic, unlike many of the flimsy cardboard pieces we get in so many games now. When the game is done, all the pieces easily fit inside the gameboard, which folds up and securely closes. My husband and I both were impressed with the quality of the gameboard and its components. As long as we can manage to keep up with all the Hanks, Drovers, and Buzzards, I can see this one lasting a long time. One more thing....it comes with a cassette tape of excerpts from the corresponding book, free!

Hank is more than your average ranch dog.....he's got quite a website as well! http://www.hankthecowdog.com/ is the entrance to the world of Hank, with links to games, character information, Hank the Cowdog products you can purchase, a visitor guestbook, author information and touring schedule, and much more!

Now that our family has gotten to know Hank the Cowdog, I'm pretty sure we wouldn't want him for our "Head of Ranch Security", but he's a great addition to our family library and game box! You can check out more about the Hank the Cowdog series of books and products at http://www.hankthecowdog.com/ and in the reviews of other TOS Crew members here.

Can't beat free!

2009-07-17T08:45:00.000-07:00

Thanks to a sweet homeschooling friend here I am now a Staples fan. Y'all, they have some really good deals on school supplies, but the best is this--if you buy a backpack next week, you get what you spent credited back to your Staples Rewards account. I can see a marketing strategy here, but, still, if you need a backpack, why not get to spend the same money twice while they're offering?

You have to start somewhere.....

2009-07-14T05:39:00.000-07:00

Veering from homeschooling for a bit....here is a huge step toward the "real" house! Yes, when you buy two, not one, rusty, stained clawfoot tubs, you have to be fairly serious about building a home to put them in. I guess when it's done, I'll have to change the title of this blog since we won't be living in a barn anymore. Seriously, though, we see the housebuilding and homeschooling as all part of our attitude of using our own hands to make and do and seeing past doubts and obstacles to work as a family toward a goal. From this point on, there will be posts from time to time about our progress. Just so y'all know, this isn't a mansion we're building, but a home with room for us and those we love to come visit. A home that everyone can have a part in creating. A building project that allows my husband and I to put together ideas we've found over the years that fit our family and our desire to use natural materials and be more responsible in our energy consumption. (For our friends reading this, we're a little more "out there" than you'd let yourselves suspect, huh?) I truly believe that each step of the way in both endeavors, homeschooling and home construction, God has guided and blessed us in so many daily ways. Not that I think our house construction is a big priority to Him, but I believe He works through all sorts of times and phases in our lives to help us grow and know His care.
land at just the right time and in just the right place with just the right kind of trees.....as my husband has said, our house is already here waiting to be cut and put together! (In case that sounds like we're naive, guess how we got the lumber for the barn we live in?)

overall unity concerning the plan and building issues--we had figured we'd have to take our respective ideas and somehow an architect would hammer it all out for us, but then we found Jack Sobon's Build a Classic Timbed Framed Home, and it was just what we both wanted.

safety in the barn's construction

family and friends who have encouraged and dads who have provided wisdom, experience, and time to help.

There are many more, but they just don't translate well to cyberspace.

Anyhow, back to the tubs..... up there on the right, see the potential under the rust? We got these for next to nothing and hoped our hunches were right. We met a super nice guy here who does sandblasting for a real reasonable rate, and then he surprised us with an offer to paint them as well. Okay, even with that, still less than anything at Lowe's.

Then, we found a set of feet for $24, and guess where they were--on my dad's way to work! My husband had to do some grinding to get them to fit, but they did. He then primed and painted them in chrome, and I just about teared up when I saw them on for the first time.

We couldn't leave them upside down forever, so it was time to tackle the insides. As usual, my husband researched how we should go about this. Armed with a wooden scraper, the garden hose, and an array of products each promising amazing results, we found that what worked best was simply Bar Keeper's Friend and a pumice stone.

That is where my homeschooling application comes in--we are surrounded with products and theories that promise to yield amazing results in our children's education, but we have to be careful. In our zeal to get those tubs as clean and white as possible, we very easily could have damaged the porcelain. In our quest to find feet for them at a good price, we could be tempted to grab one here and one there, assuming they will all work when they're adjusted. Now, realistically, we wouldn't do that, but what about with our kids? Do we ever get so focused on wanting them to really shine that we lose sight of letting them be kids, too? Do we apply harsh words to get the perfect behavior or grades we desire? Do we ever hapharzardly choose curriculum or teaching methods, assuming it will all come together eventually? I like to think we are above these tendencies, but I also know how easy it is to get distracted from the important by the bright and shiny, as well as the convenient, too. Okay, back to the literal, rather than figurative, tubs.

Anyway, so there we were just a'cleanin'! I was able to help till it was time to fix lunch, but my husband was "on a tear", and he worked on them the rest of the day Saturday and was back on the job Monday morning on the second one. And you can see what he had to work with. Anyway, we now have two tubs without a single rust stain--tubs that I look forward to putting in a house someday, a house we'll build together.

Can you imagine doing this to a 100-year-old tub?

The final result. Now they will wrapped for storage until the rest of the house is ready for them. Hooray!!!!!

A revolutionary new reading log.....maybe that's an exaggeration.

2009-07-13T22:55:00.000-07:00

I've been looking for a reading log template for my little class to use daily, one that provides space for them to write a brief summary of what they read each day. I got impatient and just made one instead. This could work for a regular school setting as well. Click here if you want to see if it's something you can use. If it is, great!

Reinforce more than just spelling with SpellQuizzer....

2009-07-07T20:34:00.000-07:00

This past week, I've had the opportunity to get to know SpellQuizzer, from TedCo Software. While the name of this product implies it's a spelling tool, it's actually much more versatile than that.

Because of its interactive nature, SpellQuizzer could be used as a review tool in other subjects as well. TedCo Software markets it as both a spelling and vocabulary review tool, but I've found ways to use it across the curriculum.

Just what is SpellQuizzer all about? In a nutshell, you can either record words or phrases for students to listen to and test over, or you can type in phrases for them to read and respond to. Upon finishing a quiz, there is a prompt that allows them to choose to retest over the words or items they miss. When they have successfully answered each one, they receive a round of applause.

When I first saw the SpellQuizzer menu appear, I wondered just how much I'd actually be able to do with it and whether this was something I would actually spend money for. Then, I began to explore it a little and began to see that its effectiveness and value is really in its simplicity.

Within just a few minutes after I downloaded the program, I was able to successfully install a microphone attachment to our computer using the directions provided within SpellQuizzer and had begun to create and record my first list. Actually, my "microphone" is a speakerphone attachment I already had. It did take a few minutes to get the volume just right so that the words were coherent to the listener, but, once again, I was able to refer to the directions within SpellQuizzer for assistance as I worked on this. If you don't have a microphone attachment, you don't have to spend much to get one. Check out these links for microphones at Walmart.com , Best Buy.com, or Amazon. Hey, in listing these sites, I'm not in any way endorsing or recommending any single product--just offering assistance.Oh, this is a good spot to mention that you can personalize the SpellQuizzer sounds for your children or class. In the "edit applications" option, you can adjust the sound settings and choose different sound effects for correct and incorrect answers and completed quizzes. I was surprised at the large number of sound effects to choose from.

After I created my first set of words and their recordings, I quizzed myself several times to test its ease of use. I found SpellQuizzer to be very straightforward and not at all confusing to use.
The labels are very clear, and there is a minimum of steps involved in getting to each quiz, which will be a huge plus for me as our kids are lower elementary. When my expert panel (my six-year-old) tested SpellQuizzer, not only was she able to navigate from quiz to quiz, she had a blast, too.

Another feature of the SpellQuizzer program is that users can share spelling lists with other users through the import and export functions. Whether a homeschooling group or a public school grade of five classes, this can save some time and energy. While we're on the subject of groups, SpellQuizzer does offer a group discount, as well.

As I said above, SpellQuizzer is marketed as a tool to help reinforce both spelling and vocabulary skills, but I took the liberty of branching out a little bit, creating a multiplication facts quiz and a history quiz. Again, my six-year-old handled this without a hitch. Of course, the program remains the same, so you would just explain to your students that "check spelling" would then mean "check answer". SpellQuizzer is obviously sensitive to spelling, so when using it for other subject areas, students would still need to use exact spelling, which is a good thing, in my opinion. After just a few days of using this program, I can also see uses for it in music, geography, history, and phonics, as well as spelling and vocabulary, and I plan to keep brainstorming more!

There is also a help menu, which actually has so far contained the answers to any questions I've had. And, again, it's easy to get to and navigate. In addition to this, there are demo videos on the website, as well as a contact form.

As for our family, cost is a major factor in any school-related purchase. I was that same way as a public school teacher. I want to get the most bang for my buck. After taking a few days to explore, experiment, and consider how it would fit into our school experience around here, I can see the potential for daily use and for use across the curriculum. Not many products with a price tag of $29.95 can live up to that. It will also reduce the amount of paper we use around here simply to write spelling words (and math facts, too). So, here's my final verdict....if you are looking for a tool to aid your students in reviewing spelling and vocabulary, this is an excellent value and resource. To be able to stretch a little further and use it across the curriculum is an added bonus. When cost, user-friendliness, versatility, and the fun factor collide, you've got a great deal in SpellQuizzer! To learn more, head on over to the SpellQuizzer homepage here or the TOS Crew blog here for more reviews of this and other educational products.

Spelling helps.....

2009-07-01T20:55:00.000-07:00

As I prepare for the upcoming school year, I am taking a different approach to spelling. In the past, our spelling has been more theme-based. As we studied the solar system or birds or the original 13 colonies, our spelling lists reflected each unit. But I want this year to be more structured and intentional as far as spelling goes. Here are some sites I've found intriguing, informative, or both..... I'm not saying everything these sites ascribe to is something I agree with or what I'm using or think you should, so read with wisdom and glean carefully!

http://www.spelling.org/free/instructional/how_to_develop_your_own_sequenti.htm This is part of the AVKO site, in the freebies section. I am considering using their samples as a guide and want to spend more time reading about the methodology of how this works. I don't think I'll necessarily go with all their procedures, though.

http://www.splashesfromtheriver.com/spelling/courseoutline.htm I like how this course integrates actual word usage, dictionary practice, and grammar.

http://www.superteacherworksheets.com/spelling-levela.html Have I shared this site before? I just found it in the last week or so and am very tempted to just go with the curriculum they offer. I do need to spend more time looking at it and considering how it fits our goals.

http://www.spelling.hemscott.net/#prefixes This site is not the easiest to navigate, but I can see it being beneficial, particularly in giving attention to trouble areas in spelling.

http://www.spinandspell.com/ This site has interactive games to make spelling fun, particularly for younger students, I would think. The words are organized into categories.

http://anneelliott.com/blog/?p=400 This blog offers some great free resources and helpful direction for those of us seeking guidance in the process of teaching spelling.

Anyhow, this is where I am right now--I am so very open to any suggestions or ideas y'all have about spelling these days!

Another great deal to check out!

2009-07-01T19:42:00.000-07:00

The Old Schoolhouse magazine always has some sort of really good subscription deal going on, and right now is no exception. If you are one of the first 5,000 to subscribe or renew for 2 years, you get 19 free gifts! These gifts include:

free portraits from Sears
a free 1-year writing curriculum from I Can Write

In the Hands of a Child free lapbook activity cd pack

Apologia $10 gift card

Happy Kids free personalized photo calendar

Wildtree crepe and cheesecake mix

....and 13 more free gifts! For a complete list, click here.

After browsing a number of homeschooling magazines out there, The Old Schoolhouse is honestly my favorite. It's full of substance on every page, even the ads. Each time I pick up an issue, I know I will put it down encouraged, challenged, and informed, not only as a homeschooler, but as a Christian and a parent. I keep a list of resources, websites, and products I want to check out and contact as I read. I've made connections with other homeschoolers and been blessed to find both innovative and affordable ideas to improve our homeschool experience through The Old Schoolhouse. Even at the cover price of $7.95 it really is worth it, considering the resources it brings together and shares, but when you can get 2 years of real paper issues, plus 19 free gifts for $39, that ought to meet the standards of almost any frugal homeschooling mom!

You can find out more about this deal by clicking here or on the picture above.

Yea! I found it!

2009-06-22T19:39:00.000-07:00

I've been working on our upcoming school plan, and in the process I found some printables I'd lost when our computer got infected a few weeks ago! I am so glad because these were some great ones. Click on the icon to the right to check some of them out! I especially like two Bible-based workbook downloads, one of which will be a great tool for scripture memorization with my two oldest. This site is actually worth spending some time on--lots of great FREE downloads, and you can search by subject or grade level.

Another site I really like that has a ton of free notebooking printables, pertaining to all subject areas, is Notebookingpages.com. You can click the icon to the right to hop on over there. Really, this site has a lot of versatile, practical printables, some free, some not.

Need an object lesson? It's no further than looking out your door!

2009-06-17T01:16:00.000-07:00

Thus far, my posts have been pretty much school-related, but this one goes a little deeper. You see, a few weeks ago, our little flock of Buff Orpingtons was decimated by neighborhood dogs. What does this have to do with anything of interest to y'all? Well, what makes the situation extra tragic is that my big ol' German shepherd could have, but didn't stop the culprits. They were his running buddies, friends he explored the woods near our home with, dogs he enjoyed being around and trusted. Yet, on that fateful morning, I looked out the door and saw him running around, befuddled, as his "friends" massacred our flock. I ran off those hooligans (as one of them made off with a hen in his mouth) and then turned my verbal wrath upon him in full force. Why hadn't he stopped them, or at least warned me? The biggest part of his job is to alert me to situations like this, but why hadn't he? At first, I wanted to give him away, but we didn't, and in the weeks since, a valuable lesson has emerged as the feathers of the dearly departed have scattered on the wind. Let me say before I go any further that I want y'all to understand that I know animals are not human nor do they possess the ability to choose right and wrong like humans, but we can still learn a lot about ourselves from the highjinks they get into.
My big dog cultivated friendships with the wrong kind of dogs, and, caught up in the situation, the ties he had with his friends clouded his judgment of what was the right thing to do. And, as a result, eight hens paid the ultimate price for his foolishness. How about us? What are we teaching and modeling for our kids? Will we be wise in the relationships we cultivate, with the relationships that we encourage and allow our children to pursue? Will we surround ourselves with friends who build us up in our faith, in our convictions, or will they lead away from what is right, what is wise, what is safe for ourselves and those we love?
Yeah, it was very sad for our family to lose those hens (who had just started laying the week before, I might add), but in real life, there's much more than scattered feathers and lost chickens at stake! Just a little lesson we're learning here at the barn!

Check out The 2009 Schoolhouse Planner from TOS....

2009-06-16T13:12:00.000-07:00

When I downloaded The Old Schoolhouse's 2009 Schoolhouse Planner ($39.00), I wasn't sure I would ever have time to look at all it offers. But I did, and now I can't wait to start using it. At 375 pages, it packs several punches on behalf of home and school!

Monthly customizeable calendars, unit ideas, resource lists, recipes.....that's just the first part!

Reading logs, curriculum documentation, report cards, handwriting printables, nature journal templates, field trip checklists, high school transcript forms....still not all!

Scripture memorization charts, prayer journal, Bible study journal and schedule, and more tools to aid in building your family's faith.

Plus a wide variety of useful information, including but not limited to the periodic table, U.S. Presidents and their wives, information about our solar system, influential classical composers, and Latin and Greek roots ("Wow!" said I, at that one), in an easy to use chart format.

There are even sections to help keep track of household finances, and appliance/auto maintenance. From important information for babysitters, to encouraging messages for moms, it's in this planner!

This is not your typical one-year planner--it's a compilation of organizational and informational tools to use for your home and throughout the course of your child's education. That's one reason I'm glad it's in the e-book format. I can print what I want when I need it and even reorganize the pages to some extent, to fit our home and school routines. I think one of the keys to really getting "the most bang for your buck" in the case of the 2009 Schoolhouse Planner is to take the time to get to know it. I've only had time to browse through it over the last couple of days, but I plan to use the next month to really familiarize myself with where things are in it and to set it up for how our family runs.

Several years ago, I tried to set up a notebook on my own to consolidate all the piles of important documents, phone numbers, and pieces of information I needed to hold onto. Whereas I succeeded with a binder that bulged and burped out post-it notes, the 2009 Schoolhouse Planner gets it right in this area. I think the trick to this is two-fold: you can fill in the information before it's printed, eliminating most of the need for sticky notes all over the place, and the creators took the time to give everything its own place and space. And I do mean everything--if you think you might need a form or chart for something, it's probably here.

The more I look at it, the more I am impressed by its flexibility, that it won't chain me to someone else's style of organization. While I probably will use this in a notebook format, it could just as easily work in a file folder system or even a paperless one. Speaking of paper, one concern I had initially was the cost of printing out those 375 pages. As I said above, you can print out only what you need, when you need it. I have already decided, also, that I will reduce the size of the some of the pages, the ones that will work well with this, enough to fit two per sheet of paper, when I need to print them. And while the creators do have it organized into sections, I will probably reorganize some of its components to fit my own system of filing.

There's something here for every style of homeschool regardless of the curriculum used or educational philosophy followed, as the other members of the TOS Crew share in their reviews as well. Admittedly, those of us who ascribe to the more traditional schooling methods will find more in the way of educational forms that fit our needs, but there is a documentation form designed specifically for those who "unschool", as well. No matter the style of your homeschool, just as a well-oiled machine runs better, a carefully-planned and organized school and home run more smoothly.

The 2009 Schoolhouse Planner is definitely what I coin "a living book", in that not only will I be able to customize it to our family's life and school, but I will also be able to add to it with supplemental monthly modules made available through The Old Schoolhouse Store. In fact, I just read on their site that if you purchase a 2009 Schoolhouse Planner between June 11 and July 12, 2009, you will receive all the 2008 Planner Excerpts FOR FREE!

If you just want a book of blank calendar sheets to fill in, hit the bargain bin. If you don't have time to "study up" on all this planner has to offer, you won't get your money's worth. But if you set aside some blocks of time to get acquainted and comfortable with the 2009 Schoolhouse Planner from The Old Schoolhouse, you will find a treasure chest of resources to enrich, professionalize, and organize your home and the school you have in it!

More great sites!

2009-06-08T03:39:00.000-07:00

Christian Preschool Printables has a huge variety of printables that can be used in Sunday school or at home. Varies from nonreader level to easy reading.

The Old Schoolhouse has a freebie directory that is worth browsing. I have found several free unit studies and resources so far. And I mean these are good ones. Some of the links don't necessarily fit us at this time, but I was amazed at how much I found that I can reasonably see us using.

A blessing in disguise.....

2009-06-06T21:38:00.001-07:00

Well staying up way too late, again, to research for next year, I somehow "caught" a bug on our computer. Gross! And so frustrating as I lost lots of materials when we erased the hard drive and started over. But, like all such situations, good came from it. I have been scrambling to regather what was lost, and in the process have found some great stuff! I also have taken the time to better organize my resources. So, here you go, some links I've been really impressed with:

Curr Click has tons and tons of wonderful freebies, not to mention lots of great deals to purchase as well--I spent a while on this site and still need more time to browse.

Better World Books A sweet friend shared this one with me, and for those of us pinching pennies and stretching dollars, the flat rate shipping and bargain prices are hard to resist.

G Major Music Theory is a music site with lots of freebies, from music theory workbooks to sheet music. I plan to use this as part of our music curriculum this upcoming year.

Homeschool Helper has all sorts of free resources, from lapbooks to unit studies. This one is a treasure!

Son Light curriculum is having a contest to win a year's worth of free curriculum--just order a catalog to enter!

Fun Fonix has free phonics workbooks to download, as well as other phonics, writing, and spelling worksheet generators. Plus, links to other printables as well.

Summer Fun!

2009-06-02T05:43:00.000-07:00

If you haven't already, check your local library for some really cool learning opportunities this summer. In addition to story time, many libraries offer reading incentive programs and a variety of classes for kids of all ages all summer. This also provides a great chance for stepping out of our normal circles, as well, as the kids meet other kids from all over town.
Check out kidsbowlfree.com for free bowling coupons all summer! You still pay for shoe rental, but kids can play 2 free games every day!
Go to http://www.cinemark.com/summermovieclubhouse/index.htm to check out the Cinemark summer movie clubhouse pass for kids. You can purchase the pass for $5 or pay $1 per movie. Hey, I am in no way promoting any single movie they'll be showing this summer. There are some on our schedule we won't be seeing due to crude language. Why do they do that? Before purchasing the pass, check out the schedule for your area.

"There Will Never Be a More Beautiful You" video--what every girl needs to know!

2009-05-30T08:11:00.001-07:00

I heard this song last night in the car and was kinda blown away by how true and applicable the words are for today's girls. I know that as homeschoolers we are blessed to be able to shield our kids from some of the world's deceit, but we don't nor do we want to live in a bubble. So, they will face hurt, inadequacy, and temptation to be "of the world" as well as just in it. The pressures on young girls are so great and so unrealistic. I just love the hope, the truth that this song from Jonny Diaz offers!

20% off sale for homeschool materials today!

2009-05-30T06:28:00.000-07:00

Mardel is having a 20% sale on homeschool products today, May 30. They have a large selection to choose from. Be forewarned--grab a cup of coffee because browsing their site may take a while--there's that much.

Did you know?

2009-05-27T21:14:00.000-07:00

Staples offers a $3 store credit for every used printer ink cartridge you turn in there, up to 10 cartridges a month. I found this out from another homeschool mom here. Click on "Staples" in the first sentence to see for yourself! Plus, I know that some of their stores will bind your materials for a flat fee of $3 apiece.

Also, if you're looking for a really delicious and really cheap pizza night, check out Papa Murphy's. It's a take and bake deal, and after trying it, our family is hooked. My husband and I agree that they make the freshest-tasting pizza with the very best crust of the national pizza chains. By remembering to keep the coupons they give each time and completing the online survey, I can get a family size (16 in. diameter) pizza and cheesebread for less than $10! Plus, they have these cards they stamp every time you purchase a pizza. When you get 12 stamps, you get a free family size pizza. And certain days are double stamp days, so you can earn your free pizzas even faster. I know this isn't technically homeschool-related, but we all have to eat, and if you're like us, you're on the lookout for good deals all over the budget.

Lowe's offers an opportunity for kids to participate in building clinics at their stores. Click here to find out more about their Build and Grow clinics. These are free for a specified number of kids each session.

Home Depot offers their own free Kids Workshops for kids to come and build. Click here to find out more.

As summer kicks off and gas gets higher again, it's always nice to find great deals and freebies! Hope you find these helpful!

Gearing up for a great year--some curriculum tools I've found...

2009-05-25T05:57:00.000-07:00

Okay, our homeschooling style is definitely eclectic. During the time I taught in a private Christian school, and the almost four years I spend in public education, curriculum development was one of my very favorite parts. Actually implementing it with a class of 25 fifth graders was a different story! Anyway, as a homeschooling mom, now, I absolutely love the time spend planning the scope and sequence and actual learning activities of our school. While there are wonderful pre-packaged curriculums out there, and I do pull pieces from some of them, I prefer to put together our own. As the kids wind down and begin to enjoy their summer break, I am, too, but I'm also gearing up for a summer of planning and printing and preparing for August. In my late night searches, here are some resources I've found that I think I'll be able to use as a tool for next year in some form or fashion. I'll be adding more to this list as time allows, so check back again for more!

Elementary lesson plans and resources:

Baltimore Curriculum Project, a plan developed to transform low-performance schools into schools of excellence http://www.cstone.net/~bcp/BCPIntro2.htm

Lesson plans organized by grade and subject, includes printables from the Indiana Department of Education http://www.lessonlocator.org/

A couple of science and social studies curricula, as well as lots of other resources from fellow homeschoolers
http://www.guesthollow.com/

Links to educational materials and games by grade and subject--tons of great stuff here
http://www.internet4classrooms.com/k12links.htm

I found this one for the first time today--looks like a treasure chest to explore! http://freeology.com/

Hadn't looked at this one in a while, but it has some new stuff--worth checking out.
http://www.freakyfreddies.com/teacher.htm

An entire 37 lesson history curriculum all about the nationalities that built America--I'm pretty impressed with all the work going into this one! http://www.prontolessons.com/New.html

If you a have few moments for a WeE bit of concise boldness.....

2009-05-22T06:58:00.001-07:00

Recently, I was made aware of the WeE-book collection, new from TOS. Written from an unabashedly Christian perspective, these wee bites of straight talk are just right for the homeschooling parents who already have too much on their plate but still need the encouragement of a biblically-based publication. Topics range from teaching tips and instructional helps, to encouraging devotionals and scripture meditations, to wakeup calls regarding the spiritual wellbeing of our children and families in today's society. And the price of $1.95 or less wasn't a bad move, either! The authors are not afraid to speak up against the tide of secularism in our culture and educational systems, calling readers to consider the opportunities and mission within home education and to dig deeper in our studies to find what is true, what honors God and is in alignment with His Word. For those considering homeschooling, the WeE-books are a collection of glimpses into what is a totally "out of the box" approach to education for many and a valuable resource in knowing how to move forward. While those of us in the trenches already, so to speak, can benefit and be refueled to teach more effectively and proceed with fresh wind in our sails and a renewed sense of purpose and commitment. As I read Creation vs. Evolution: Interpreting the Evidence, one of the WeE-books, I was impressed with the knowledge of the authors, and even more so with their commitment to dig deeper and the courage to speak the truth in a field in which God has been resigned by many to myth. This series is unashamedly Christian in nature, and while some may find that a detractor, I stand up and say Amen! The WeE-books can be purchased and downloaded through the TOS store site at http://www.theoldschoolhousestore.com/ .

Just finished my Homework!

2009-05-22T02:38:00.000-07:00

Wisdom, encouragement, warnings, and common sense about the real world of starting a home business, when home is the main business--how I wish I'd read Homework (from the TOS online store) five years ago as my first ventures into working from home floundered and flopped. These are the stories of real moms who stepped out in faith to make use of their gifts, interests, and the opportunities that came their way to help support their families and ease the financial burden on their husbands. In their own words, they share the struggles of getting started and actually making a profit, without sugarcoating reality and difficult times. There is no fast track to wealth described, but rather the practical lessons each has learned about how to balance and protect and integrate what matters most, the wellbeing of our families, with the opportunity and responsibility that goes into a home business. These moms demonstrate that there is no cookie cutter formula to working from home, as the pages of Homework transport the reader from a countryside bed and breakfast to the home office of a tax accountant, to the life of a minister's wife with a pet care business. I was struck by the candor with which they write of neglected housework and the frustration of over-multi-tasking at times, and I was blessed by the repeated admonishment to keep priorities as they should be at each point of the home business journey. I was inspired by their accounts of working as a family, as children learned important life skills and character traits through helping in the family business. This isn't just a motivational, feel-good compilation of success stories. I found a wealth of practical advice and resources for each phase of setting up a home business, particularly in the last few chapters. That being said, Homework is one resource, and the contributing authors do not claim to have all the answers. In fact, these ladies stress the importance of seeking knowledge and wisdom in their specific business fields each step of the way. And while the practical goal of the home business is to bring additional income into the household budget, the common thread in each of their stories is faith and obedience to a calling that goes way beyond quarterly earnings and profit potential. This is one I'll want to share.