Some free finds....

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!

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....

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....

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....

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!

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:

1. 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.


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


3. 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.


4. 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!!

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.