I thought we could start a thread to keep each other encouraged as we go through our days. Life is a challenge in itself, when you add dieting to the mix it becomes more so. Then add home schooling in the mix, and you sometimes have daily chaos.

So who here home schools? We can share ideas, tips, etc. that help our days run smoother and help us stay on track with our eating plans as well. It's all too easy to get engrossed in lesson planning, teaching, field trips, and house work - where we might eventually start neglecting our own care.

I'll start:

I have two children. My ds is 11 and my dd is 8. The last two years they have been in a private Christian school. It was a nice break, but we felt it was time to go back to teaching at home. My son is a bit behind in Math and now I can devote time to his individual needs.

We are technically starting tomorrow, but I only have a few of the subject I need to teach, so they will be short days. I still have a few more things to gather up before we have everything together.

I just bought a book to help me keep organized and sane, called Homeschooling at the Speed of Life. So far it's been wonderful and I'm hoping to get a lot of help from it.

So, what about you?

Amy, I'm in! We homeschool. Living books.... I have all the way from high school senior to kindergarten and preschoolers.

Great Valerie! You have a beautiful family! I enjoyed looking at your pictures and your website. I may be sending some business your way soon, as I'm still gathering the stuff I need for this year.

Hi Amy,

We identify ourselves as homeschoolers even though our son is only four. We plan to use an eclectic but classical approach (loosely using The Well Trained Mind).

I am a radical, I tell you! See?:

- No daycare. I'd use daycare if I had to, but my husband is a stay-at-home dad working from home part-time.

- No preschool and we'll be homeschooling

- Low-carb way of life



Right now we're not doing anything formal...mostly lots of reading and the normal learning activities that come up in day-to-day life.

I look forward to hearing the experiences of those with older children.

Cheers,
Susan

Hi Susan! You certainly do count as a homeschooler. While you may not have as much experience as some of us, please do share anything that you find helpful. It may be something we've never thought of!

I am not homeschooling now, But when I was in another life time, I joined http://www.leah.org/
it was so awesome, found fellow homeschoolers, went on "class trips"
I wasnt great in math so I found someone who would teach Jess that and I helped in science.
Check it out
sandi

Hi! I home school, too! We started three weeks ago.

I started with oldest dd when she was five. I wanted to send her to a private school, but could not afford it at the time. I figured that it couldn't be too tough to teach her to read and do basic kindergarten stuff, so I home schooled kindergarten and hoped I would be able to afford first grade at the private Christian shcool. Then I couldn't afford first grade either! So I bought AOP and did first grade at home. Then, by the time she was in second grade I wouldn't send her to school for anything! I had always wanted her to have an education like I did when I was in the 4th-6th grades and I thought the only hope for that was a private school. How wrong I was! That school was boring and suffocating (as are most schools in my opinion) and I was the one who had the ability to give her a great learning experience! I am glad that I had her at home while I figured that out!

I read the Charlotte Mason books. And Mary Pride. And so many others I can't count. I can't articulate my philosophy, but I would say it is closest to Charlotte Mason.

She is now almost 20 and working on her bs in math. Six more classes and she graduates. She then wants her masters so that she can teach math at the local university and community college. She was married last December to a very nice young man. We are quite proud of her...

We still have dd14, ds12, ds10, and ds8. They are such darling children. DD14 is starting her high school work now and is working very hard. She has a fairly serious learning disability,but seems to be doing better than ever!

We live in a fairly home school friendly state, but I really hate the scrutiny and the lousy attitude of the ESD employees. I am freshly reminded of this every year that requires testing! Three had to be tested this year... They did well, but it cost me $300 and every time I send the test results in, they lose them and ask for them again! Oh, I wish we had less government involvement! Okay, I'm done getting mad!

You know what is really weird these days? My oldest son is the same age as my husband was when I met him! It is sooooo bizarre! He is learning the same science that we were learning when we sat next to each other in Mr. Crank's science class! We never thought then that we would grow up, get married and have five children! I also was not aware that my husband would still act like a twelve year old when he was 41! LOL He really does still tease me the same way!

So, up in the morning at 6:30 to go for a long walk. Home by 8:30. Start school by 9:00. It's bedtime!!!!


Nite

I wanted to add that my oldest is brilliant in math and an excellent writer. All the rest are brilliant in math and struggling readers. I don't quite know how that happened.... But I am determined to change the reading situation this year. I read a book called, "When Kids Can't Read," by Beers. It really cleared up in my mind what the problem with my kids is. I could read when I was three and, according to Beers, I had no idea how to teach a child who was not also a "natural reader" like my oldest. We have been doing some of the exercises in that book over the summer and all of them have improved significantly! We are going to keep this up all year and I am hoping all but the youngest will be reading at a high school level by the end of the year.

The funnest part of this reading thing has been the short stories that I have been able to share with them! When my husband and I were in the 10th grade, we had Engish together and really liked our literature book. So I searched all over for the short stories that we liked the best and make a copy for each child. Now we sit in a circle and read aloud--taking turns. The kids love it! Our favorite stories are:

The Yellow Wallpaper
Thus I Refute Beelzy
Eleven
There Will Come Soft Rains

We also read, "To Build a Fire." They hated it. LOL! I did, too, but I figured everyone should have to read it if only to have something to complain about!

Kristi

Susan, you radical one!

Do any of you have your children eating low carb? I have not forced it on anyone, but I did stop buying wheat bread--only brown rice bread or spelt. It mostly sits in the back of the fridge... I have been filling the fridge with meats, cheeses, plain yoghurt, hard boiled eggs, bacon, almond butter, nuts, and cream. I do also buy processed meats like pepperoni, Carl Buddig meat packets, Bruswager sausage, etc. I figure we are making such huge positive changes that it won't hurt to have a little nitrates in our diet! I also have their favorite vegetables and lower carb fruits like blueberries, plums, and frozen strawberries. We have never had juice or sports drinks in the house, but I have always allowed sugar-free sodas. So now instead of cookies or crackers, they mix diet 7up with some flavored syrup and a tablespoon of cream! That is a fun dessert! Nobody has complained yet about the low carb fare.

The reason I am posting this here is because I have noticed a huge change in the last three weeks since we have been eating low carb and we have been doing school! These kids are clearer and smarter and have better attitudes concerning schoolwork than they ever have! I also see a lot less yawning. I think these little guys were tanking up on carbs and getting sleepy and grouchy! Low carb agrees with everyone in my home.

So, except for eating out, the whole family is eating low carb. Even my married daughter and my dad are low carbing. Mom is thinking about it. Even eating out, though, some of the children order their burgers with the lettuce wrap!

I can't imagine how hard this would be if they were in school....

Kcarter66,

My children eat somewhat of a low-carb diet. In fact, thanks to Jimmy's suggestion to me in his blog post about my Youtube video, my next video blog will feature my children and we'll discuss low-carbing with kids! I'll be sure to let you know when it's up if you are interested.

I do believe kids benefit from healthier carbs, although we aren't being strict about it. My kids are skinny minis so weight loss is the last thing they need. But there is NEVER any harm in giving them the choice of fresh fruit, veggies and cutting out sugar and other processed junk. As you have seen, eating healthy works for everyone.. not just those who are overweight. I bet your kids feel fantastic!

Sparky's Girl,

Yes, I would be interested in hearing when you put that video together.

And, yes, they do feel fantastic! But I have had a frustrating morning... I called my mom and fussed about my kids' behavior this morning. Low carb is good for their minds and bodies, but it does nothing for the sin nature! The little monsters are just as good at stubbornness, manipulation, and prevarication as they ever were! hee hee I am so glad I have my mom to talk to so I can laugh and not cry


Kristi

Sorry I'm just now getting back to this thread.

Kristi,Sorry you had such a bad time with the kids. Mine certianly have their days when I wish I'd sent them off to school somewhere else. LOL We all have those days I'm sure. Glad you have someone to talk to about it all. My parents aren't super keen on the whole homeschooling idea, so they are not who I talk to. lol I'm part of a local homeschool group though, so that helps a lot!

Ok.. update:

I forgot how much work homeschooling is! I had two years off while my kids attended private school and wow, did I get lazy! I'm struggling with being a bit overwhelmed. But eventually it will smooth out and I'll feel better about it.

Would everyone mind sharing the tips that get them through the day? How often do you take breaks? Are you "unschooling" or using classical methods? (my mind is reeling with questions)

I'm also curious as to what curriculum you all are using. (I know that could be a long list..) Most of my homeschooling experience has been with ACE, but we've gotten away from that this year. I'm using the following:

Math: Math-U-See (haven't actually bought it yet...)
Spelling: Spelling Power (LOVE IT so far)
English: Writing Power (still figuring it out)
Bible: Draw to Learn with a little ACE thrown in the mix
Handwriting: (Cursive) Handwriting without Tears
Science: Still trying to figure out what to use
Social Studies: still trying to figure it out

I bought 2 books to help me with the last two subjects. What your 6th grader needs to know and What your 3rd grader needs to know, both by Core Knowledge.

On top of the core subjects, they both want to learn art (so I'm considering Thomas Kincade's DVD program). My daughter wants piano lesson and my son wants to learn Spanish.

I'm still putting all this together and my head is spinning. LOL

Hello, I am new to the forum. I am a SAHM and homeschooler. I have 4 kids they range from 4 to 14. I am fairly new to HS this will be my second year. I am more of a eclectic /unschooler. It will be great to talk with other homeschoolers.

Tia

Hey! I didn't even know you guys were here. This forum is getting really busy. I have a 9yr. dd and a 5yr ds. Lets see..we use:

Math U See - I love it and cannot say enough good
History and Social Studies - Tapestry of Grace (worth a look)
Handwriting - Writing w/ Prayer (cursive)
Science - Apologia "Exploring Creation w/ Astonomy" Apologia is a great science for the christian family
Bible - Cornerstone by http://www.doorposts.net/Default.asp
Grammar - is a really eclectic grouping of 3 or more things

I am really organized, but not so disciplined. We start school about 12:00noon and finish whenever. Sometimes we have to catch up on the weekend, but I know we will and they are getting a better education than public.

I am glad that you guys are talking about your kids on LC. I put a topic up in the forum, but only one person responded.

Hilary,

I'm glad to hear you say you like math-u-see. I haven't bought it yet because of the expense ..but it really sounds like it's worth every penny. I'm very impressed with Steven Demme methods. My son, who is really struggling, watched the demo dvd with me and was whipping out the answers faster than I could! I think he'll do wonderful with it this year!

My daugter tested to start in Beta and my son in Gamma. I have the Beta teacher stuff (I love ebay!), but I still have all the rest to get, including the manipulatives. I'm currently watching an ebay auction for the full set of gamma and both block sets.

Thanks for the suggestion about Apologia. I'll have to look into it.

Hi Nativetongue! Glad you have joined us!

Math - U -See was good because I am an anal workbook, crossout kinda gal and my daughter is very artistic (her dad is, too) so, we would really have a hard time. With the blocks and him explaining everything...it just made sense to her. What a world of difference this year. IMHO...you don't need the teacher book. Just the Student Text ,Test Booklet, and the dvd lessons. Not for Beta. That is what we are doing this year and you could find worksheets online if you needed the extra practice. The material is easy enough that you will have no problem.

Also, I would get the extra blocks if you have a chance. Both kids always want to do Math at the same time or you will need them in your actual lessons.

This year is different. I have been a lazy, slacking off homeschool mother for the last three years because I was in school myself. I also had my oldest home to help me even though she was also in college. I still have about 10 classes before I get my degree, but I quit indefinitely so that I could be a responsible mother!!

So, we are doing some things differently this year.

DD14 (9th grade)
Algebra (a textbook I used in college for Math 60 and 65)
Philosophy ( a textbook I used in college for Phl 195--I also bought the teacher guide)
Spanish (Rosetta Stone)
History (AOP + family read-alouds from many different books + timeline we are all working on together)
Science (AOP)
Language Arts (AOP + literature I pick)
Typing Instructor
ACE Reader Pro

DS12 (6th grade)
Saxon 76
Daily Grams
History (AOP + readalouds and timeline)
Science (AOP)
Language Arts (AOP + Literature I pick)
Typing Instructor
ACE Reader Pro

DS10 (4th grade) and DS8 (2nd grade)--all the same except for math. We do ABeka Math for 1st through 5th. Then move to Saxon 76. With DD21, we then moved to Saxon Algebra 1, Saxon Alg. 2, then Math 60, 65, 95 and 111 at the local community college. With DD14, we went to the college textbook and she is doing fine so far! I don't love ABeka, but it is certainly good. I didn't buy MMM or Math U See because I had already done ABeka and had spent so much on my Base 10 and Quisenaire Rods , etc. My children have all done so well with math (the oldest majoring in it!) that I haven't really needed to look any deeper than what I fell into from the early days (1991).

So, this heavy reliance on AOP is new. I have used it on and off for years for this or that subject. I even had it for myself in 11th grade when I went to a private school. But with all these children ( I know, I know! Valerie manages 3x as many!), I needed to know that it all was being covered! And AOP is comforting if you are afraid you might forget something! And my kids do like workbooks. They come by it naturally--I love them!

My kids are all (the four younger) having trouble with reading, but are all getting better. I have high hopes for this year. I have given up on spelling for now. Another time I will deal with it....

Kristi

Hi - I'm Kelly and I'm a SAHM with 2 toddlers, 3 and 2 y.o.. SparkysGirl suggested I pop in over here. My DH and I have been exploring our educational options for when our kids start Kidnergarten, and there are some wonderful private schools here, but the only ones that I was really impressed with left me staggering after seeing the annual tuition. Additionally, my concern is that so much of the educational experience is often less about the school and the cirriculum, and more about the teacher, so who's to say all that tuition $ won't be going to pay for a teacher that makes learning, shall we say, "less than fun?" I want my kids to LOVE learning, and my DH and I want to travel with our children as part of their educations, so we are starting to more seriously look into homeschooling.

I'm wondering what you would recommend as a place to start. Are there any good books you might recommend to help point me in the right direction? We are Christian, and are active members in our church, but I don't think I'm looking for a faith-based cirriculum, but I don't know, maybe I'm just making assumptions about what that would be like. This is very preliminary, so I'm still very open. Any thoughts? TIA

dang it, I did it again - I misspelled kindergarten!!!!! I must be crazy to be even thinking about homeschooling! LOL

Kelly... I like the way you spelled it! Kidnergarten... it's cute! (I know.. again our fingers fly faster than our thoughts. If you were writing it down, you'd spell it right.) LOL

A lot of places will send you free catalogs and demo stuff, so I think I'd check some of those out first. Here are some links for you:

ACE School Of Tomorrow - Faith based

(AOP) Alpha Omega - Faith based

Abeka - Faith based

The above are all curriculum I have used. I know you aren't sure about faith based, but let me say that I am very particular about what my children are taught in regards to faith, and I have yet to see anything in any of the above that I would object to. My kids have really enjoyed seeing their beliefs backed up in their school work.

A few other links you can check out to get catalogs, etc.

Rainbow Resource Center

Macmillan McGraw-Hill

You can also do a search and find LOADS of stuff. Just type in homeschool, or type in anything you see us talking about here (like math-u-see, etc.). You can find many books about homeschooling (different approaches, balancing homeschool and life, etc.) at the library or in bookstores. I just bought a book titled Home Schooling At The Speed Of Life by Marilyn Rockett. So far I really like her ideas. I think the biggest help you will get is to attend your areas next home school expo. If you aren't in a town that regularly has one, it would be worth the travel to find the closest one. There you will meet a large variety of curriculum vendors and can look through their stuff and ask questions. You'll also find stuff for your classrooom. You can attend "classes" where experienced homeschoolers give talks about what has and hasn't worked for them. They are topic specific (ie: schooling the gifted child, keeping a schedule without losing your mind.. etc., etc.) These expos usually start in late spring here, but may be different in your neck of the woods.

Hope that helps some. I'm sure others will have suggestions as well.

Kristi,

My kids don't spell very well. I've struggled to find a way to help them. I LOVE Spelling Power! They actually seem to enjoy learning with it! It runs about $65, and if you like it, will be the last spelling curriculum you'll ever need. You can use it from ages 8 (they have suggestions for younger as well, but recommend starting at 8) thru adult.


I used AOP Switched On SchoolHouse with my son when he was in 3rd grade. It was nice, but he hated reading at the time and it involved a lot of reading. But since it was all done on computer he thought it was still kinda fun. We've decided not to use it with my daughter, because sitting in front of a computer would drive her nuts. So I'm selling it on ebay.

Kelly,

I just emailed you with my home phone number. It's good to have friends in the same town. Call me and I would love to help you explore your options with the homeschooling choice. I am involved with a homeschool (mostly christian) group with like 200 families in it.

Hilary

Amy,

Ha ha! I have purchased (and returned) Spelling Power twice! I am sure it is a great program, but I have so much to do with the rest of their education that I have decided it isn't worth it! I know perfect spellers (me, my daughter, my mother) who never needed any instruction. I also know horrible spellers (Dad, husband, sons) who had tons of instruction and nothing seems to stick! I know that spelling is important, but I have only so many hours in the school day and I have to focus on their reading until they are completely independent readers.

Yes, they were monsters the other day! They have been doing so much better, though. They finally figured out that I was serious--the work was going to be done and I was not going to be the one to do it! We are so fortunate to have the support of Mom and Dad--I can even count on them for an occasional lesson! My parents are both accomplished people with varied and unusual interests. They live in Idaho near Boise (we are in Portland) so we get to see them frequently. I know that a lot of home schoolers are under family pressure to use the state or private schools and I don't for one minute take my parents and their support for granted!

I asked them to home school me when I was in the 9th grade. They said no. It was back in the days when people were going to jail for homeschooling. In Idaho, where we lived from 1978 to 1990, the laws changed radically during that time. There was a fairly famous case in the late 70's or early 80's--the Shippee (sp?) family was jailed and their children taken away because they home schooled. Now Idaho is one of the best (I think it is the best) home schooling states in the union. My parents did have a habit of thinking about things and not just doing something because it was the thing to do. So when I decided to home school, they were excited about the possibilities. My sisters also have home schooled at one time or another, but that is all we have ever done. I would never trade the time with my children or the freedom we have to live our lives as we see fit.

Okay, then

Kelly,

We are Christian, too. But I never was "looking" for a faith based curriculum. I was looking for good materials to teach my children math, science, etc. We teach our children about God and they also learn in church. Learning about our faith is more than the silly word problems like, "Juan's parents are missionaries. They have 50 people in their church.....How many...?" The "faith based" programs that I have seen are not all that "faith based." In fact, many non-Christians use the "Christian" curriculum because the academics are good and the religious talk around the edges is easy for them to pass over. And it is difficult for them to find things that are not Christian. I do, however, appreciate that AOP will not say anything that is contrary to Christianity. While they are young I want to be careful about what they are exposed to. When they are in high school, we start to expose them on a larger scale to the world so that they are ready for what they will face in college!

Kristi

Sparkys Girl: thanks for the welcome Sparkys Girl

krcarter66: How do you/your children like Rsetta Stone Spanish,I have been thinking of purchasing it for my sons?

NativeTongue,

I am not qualified to give a review of Rosetta Stone! I have a bad attitude about learning foreign languages. I tried in high school and quickly realized how inept I was and dropped the class before I failed. So, with my children, I insisted that they try, but I am not grading them or even setting any standards. They can put out as much or as little effort as they wish. If they put out a moderate amount, I will give them a credit. If they really go to town with it, I will give them two credits!

I just asked Anna if she likes it and she said she does. A lot. As I am thinking about it, I realize I never have to remind her to do it!


Kristi

Kristi,

I've been considering Rosetta Stone as well. My son wants to learn Spanish. I am an idiot where foreign language is concerned so I need something that can teach without MY help. Does Rosetta Stone seem to be good in that sense?

Oh.. I'm so excited! I just won an ebay auction for the Math-U-See stuff I needed, and I got it about half price!

We're Christians too. IMHO, our curriculum is "faith-based" just because of how we use it. We don't need a Bible verse on every page to show the glory of God to our children. :-)

The majority of our "curriculum" is just whole literature. Real, interesting, living books of the very best literary and artistic quality.

We use Considering God's Creation for elementary science and Apologia for Junior High and High School.

We use Math-u-See for elementary and junior high and VideoText for Algebra and Geometry. (The latter is even more expensive but well worth it, and it really holds its value for resale.)

Thank you very much for all the information. My DH and I are very excited about getting started, and you all have been a wealth of information to get me off on the right foot. I'll keep checking in over here from time to time. Thanks!

Amy,

Glad you won your MUS! A friend of mine used that with her boys and they are as brilliant in math as my kids are! hee hee

Yes, Rosetta Stone needs no input from you if the kids are old enough to use computer programs alone. Anna like it and says she is learning. I can neither confirm nor deny this since I pay no attention to this subject!



Kristi

Thanks for the info Kristi! I'll be sure and report how brilliant my kids are after MUS! (I have my fingers, toes and eyes crossed that they take to MUS like so many other kids seem to! Actually, since I don't believe in luck, I'm praying God will open their minds with this curriculum and help them really get it!)

I got my MUS today! I can't wait to start using it. I think we'll get started monday. I need to familarize myself with it first.

Hi everyone,
I've not read through the whole thread yet, but wanted to introduce myself here as well.

I have four children, and have homeschooled from kindergarten all the way through highschool grad. I have one more left, my son is 12. We are getting ourselves setup here in SC to homeschool him now. Big adjustment from California but I'm confident we will find our way.

Hi, I didn't know this thread was here until Sparky mentioned it elsewhere. So I'm crashing it, and adding my intro. I have homeschooled my two children from the "get go" and they are now in Gr. 7 and 9. We use Bob Jones HomeSat, where the lessons come through on a satellite hook up, and we tape them onto DVD and play them later. We have been doing this for a couple years, and are really enjoying it. The kids watch the lesson, work along with the teacher, and then often have home work. I plan on using this right through to the "bitter end". ha ha. This system helps mathematically challenged parents like myself, and the kids really like it. The teacher is speaking directly to the child and they have lots of real NASA footage, experiments you can watch/do yourself, skits, wonderful still photography. There are also Biblical applications to the lessons, encouraging proper character qualities and development. Not just verses sprinkled throughout, but properly applied.

So that's me/us in a nut shell.

Hi Kat and Skinny! We are glad you've joined us!

Can anyone give me any tips as to what I can do now to get prepared for homeschooling my son who will be 3yrs old in Feb? I want him to be accustomed to a classroom setting and have a specific area just for learning. He has been in speech therapy since Nov of last year and getting better. I just want to give him a head start, and myself as well, so I am not overwhelmed when the time comes(and I don't want him to be overwhelmed either).
Thanks
I admire all of you for your wonderful outlook on education and parenting. I believe the two go hand in hand but a lot of parents just don't understand. So, I guess it is also safe to ask what I may come up against in other circles when announcing that I am a homeschooler.
How do you respond to those that just can't understand how you can spend so much time with your child(ren)? Like it is supposed to be normal to not want to be around them or something? Have any of you come across people with such closed minds?
I think I may have that problem with my father so I want to be able to back up my decisions and have lots of information.
Thanks again.

Dragonfly, I've told people many times.. homeschooling is not for sissys! But it is also the most rewarding experience I've ever had. Yes, there are times when we need a break from our kids, but everyone needs breaks now and then.

I think a good way to start with your son would be to set up a "class room" where you could "play school". It doesn't have to be anything tough. You could just color pictures, examine a leaf, look at a book. You could gradually work into some kind of schedule that would resemble what you think you may use when you start him in Kindergarten. The most important thing, I think anyway, is to help him see that learning can be fun. And you can learn from so many things.. not just books! The world around us is a great learning tool. Take him for a walk and help him see the amazing way our planet works! Use your imagination and he will too!

One of my children's favorite parts of school has always been when I've asked them to draw me a picture telling me about something they've learned. It allows them to be creative and allows me to see what they are remembering.

As for naysayers, I'm sorry to say there will probably be a few. My Dad isn't super keen on my homeschooling the kids. He never has been. When we put them in a private school the last couple of years he really thought it was great. Now that we are homeschooling again, he doesn't say much. He's afraid they are missing out on friends, activites, etc. If he could see our homeschool group's schedule, and the 400+ members, he would think differently!

Just like with low-carb, there will be people who refuse to believe homeschooling could be good for your kids. They will give you their advice, solicited or not, and expect you to buy it. I've found the best way to deal with it is to just smile and tell them about all the wonderful things my children have done during school (or your plans if they haven't started yet). I tell them about how much they are learning. (funny.. how much they learn allways seems to take a back seat to socialization when it comes to other people's concerns) I talk about the activities with others we have planned, the field trips, etc. That usually gives people a lot to think about. I think most people think we homeschoolers sit on out tails all day and just hand our kids some books. Whew.. if only it were that easy! LOL

Silver Dollar City in Branson, MO just had a homeschooler's weekend. Homeschoolers got in at a discounted price for the two days and were allowed behind the scenes to learn how the park works. They were taken underneath the big rollercoaster and shown how they run it. They were given special maps for scavenger hunt that was set up. They were given demonstrations of many of the trades that are represented there.. and so much more! How many public school kids get to do that?

A great place to get information is www.hslda.org . They not only help you find information to get you started, if you join, they will be your legal counsel if ever needed and defend your right to homeschool.

I'm kinda tired so I don't know if I've actually helped you here or answered any of your questions. But I hope I have.

Hi to All,
I am joining in late so I haven't had the pleasure of reading this whole thread yet but wanted to join you all. I have 3 dc, 6yo ds, almost 5yo ds, and almost 2.5 yo dd. I homeschool the boys kindergarten and 1st grade. Since I am relatively new to HS I have purchased curriculum the last 2 years. Last year I did one that had a lot of read alouds but not much in the way of written work. My boys were always begging me to get them workbooks like you see at Walmart to do written work. So this year I went with a more traditional curriculum which they seem to prefer. With all its ups and downs I would not trade homeschooling for any other option.

Thanks Amy and Jenny I appreciate all the info. Now all I have to do is figure out our family's food allerges and we will be good to go. Thanks again.
Kat

Hi,
I am a fellow homeschooler as well. I pulled our girls out last year when they were in 3rd and 6th grade. We are currently using Sonlight, which we love, and some abeka, and other math, and various others, I guess im eclectic, but SL is our spine!

I haven't been able to post much lately but I wanted to say Hello and welcome to all the newcomers.

Sparkysgirl: nice avi pic.

Thanks Native!

hey, dragonfly, you know what? home schooling is great when you have food allergies to deal with. this is one of the early reasons we started h.s.'ing in the first place. it has helped our son tremendously.

Skinnyme you are absolutely right about the food allergies and homeschooling. Someone posted something on my AP group about how the day care they were looking at wouldn't allow her to bring in her own food even though the child had allergies. It was crazy.

Anyway, has anyone read this article on "socialization"?

It may be long but I think it is very relevant to this thread.

No Thank You, We Don't Believe in Socialization
Copyright 2000
Lisa Russell
Gypsymom2000@ hotmail.com

I can't believe I am writing an article about socialization, The
word makes my skin crawl. As homeschoolers, we are often accosted by
people who assume that since we're homeschooling, our kids won't
be "socialized. " The word has become such a catch phrase that it has
entirely lost any meaning. The first time I heard the word, I was
attending a Catholic day school as a first grader. Having been
a "reader" for almost 2 years, I found the phonics and reading
lessons to be incredibly boring. Luckily the girl behind me felt the
same way, and when we were done with our silly little worksheets, we
would chat back and forth. I've never known two 6 yr olds who could
maintain a quiet conversation, so naturally a ruler-carrying nun
interrupted us with a few strong raps on our desk. We were both
asked to stay in at recess, and sit quietly in our desks for the
entire 25 minutes, because "We are not here to socialize, young
ladies." Those words were repeated over and over throughout my
education, by just about every teacher I've ever had. If we're not
there to socialize, then why were we there? I learned to read at
home. If I finished my work early (which I always did,) could I have
gone home? If I were already familiar with the subject matter, would
I have been excused from class that day? If schools weren't made for
socializing, then why on earth would anyone assume that
homeschoolers were missing out?

As a society full of people whose childhood's were spent waiting
anxiously for recess time, and trying desperately to "socialize"
with the kids in class; It is often difficult for people to have an
image of a child whose social life is NOT based on school buddies.
Do you ever remember sitting in class, and wanting desperately to
speak to your friend? It's kinda hard to concentrate on the lessons
when you're bouncing around trying not to talk. Have you ever had a
teacher who rearranged the seats every now and then, to prevent
talking, splitting up friends and "talking corners". Were you ever
caught passing notes in class? Now- flash forward to "real life."
Imagine the following scenes:

*Your Employer is auditing the Inter-Office Email system and comes
across a personal note between you and a co-worker. You are required
to stand at the podium in the next sales meeting to read it aloud to
your co-workers.

*The Police knock on your door, and announce that because you and
your neighbor have gotten so close, they're separating you. You must
move your home and your belongings to the other side of town, and
you may only meet at public places on weekends.

*You're sitting at a booth waiting for a co-worker to arrive for a
scheduled lunch date. Suddenly, a member of upper-management sits
downs across from you and demands your credit cards. When your
friend arrives, you just order water and claim you're not hungry,
since he stole your lunch money.

*You're applying for a job and in an unconventional hiring practice,
you are made to line up with other applicants, and wait patiently
while representatives from two competing companies take their pick
from the lineup.

*You're taking your parents out for an anniversary dinner. After you
find a table, a waiter tells you that seniors have a separate dining
room, lest they "corrupt" the younger members of society.

*You go to the grocery store only to find that since you are 32
years old you must shop at the store for 32 year olds. It's 8 miles
away and they don't sell meat because the manger is a vegetarian,
but your birthday is coming up and soon you'll be able to shop at
the store for 33 yr. olds.

*You'd like to learn about Aviation History. You go to the library
and check out a book on the subject only to be given a list
of "other subjects" that you must read about before you are
permitted to check out the aviation book.

*You're having a hard time finding what you need in the local
department store. The saleslady explains that each item is arranged
alphabetically in the store, so instead of having a section for
shoes, you will find the men's shoes in between the maternity
clothes and the mirrors.

*Your Cable Company announces that anyone wishing to watch the
Superbowl this year must log on a certain number of hours watching
the Discovery Channel before they can be permitted to watch the
game.

*You apply for a job only to be told that this job is for 29 year
olds. Since you're 32, you'll have to stay with your level.

*In a group project, your boss decides to pair you up with the
person you don't "click" with. His hope is that you'll get learn to
get along with each other, regardless of how the project turns out.

These absurd examples were created to point out how absolutely
ridiculous the idea of "socializing" in schools is. Many people had
a friend who they stayed friends with all through grammar school-
WHY? Because their names were alphabetically similar, and they
always ended up in line with each other. As an adult, have you ever
made friends with someone simply because your names were similar?
How long would such a friendship last and how meaningful would it
be, providing you had nothing else in common?

People often use the bully as an example of why it's so important to
let kids "socialize" at school. If that's so important, then the
bully needs to go to JAIL after a few months, because self-
respecting society simply doesn't put up with that, nor should my 6
yr. old. Sure, there are crappy people in the world, but the world
does a much better job of taking care of these things. A bullying
brat in the first grade will still be a bullying brat in the 6th
grade. He will still be picking on the same kids year after year
after year, unless he moves to a new town. How long would the
average adult put up with a bully? Personally, as an adult, I have
only come across one grown up bully. I choose not to be around this
miserable woman. So do many other people. THAT is real life. If she
were a co-worker, I would find a different job. If she worked at a
business I patronized- not only would I refrain from doing business
with that company, I would write a letter to the bully, her manager,
the owner and the main office. A kid in a classroom has no way to
emotionally protect themselves against such a person. I would never
expect my kids to put up with bad treatment from a bully in the name
of "toughening them up." For what? So they can be submissive wimps
when they grow up too? So they can "ignore" their miserable bosses
and abusive spouses? In real life, if an employer discovered that an
employee was harassing the other staff members, that employee could
be fired (pending the 90-day evaluation) or relocated. In real life,
if you are so dreadfully harassed by a co-worker you can seek legal
recourse independently. In a classroom, the teacher and other
children are often powerless.

The idea of learning acceptable social skills in a school is as
absurd to me as learning nutrition from a grocery store. As
Homeschoolers, the world is our classroom. We interact with people
of all ages, sexes and backgrounds. We talk to and learn from
everyone who strikes our interest. We use good manners in our home
and I'm always pleased when others comment on the manners my
children have picked up. I believe good manners to be an important
social skill. Respecting common areas is also of value to us. We
often carry a grocery bag with us on walks, in case we find trash
that needs to be discarded. When we're waiting at a bus stop, if
there is trash on the ground, we make a point to carry it onto the
bus and discard of it properly. Once, while waiting at a bus stop-
we saw a grown man drop his popsicle wrapper on the ground. He was 2
feet from a trash can- My daughter looked up at me with eyes as big
as saucers. I told her (out loud) "It must have blown out of his
hand from that little wind, because no-one would throw trash on the
ground on purpose. I'm sure when he's done with his popsicle, he
will pick it up and throw it away correctly- otherwise, we can take
care of it so we don't have an ugly world." He did pick it up,
rather sheepishly. I can't imagine expecting my children to have a
respect for the cleanliness of common areas in an environment where
bathroom walls are covered in graffiti and trees are scratched with
symbols of "love" of all things.

Another social skill we strive to teach our children is that all
people are created equal. I can't imagine doing that in an
environment where physically disadvantaged children are segregated
into a "special" classroom. Or even children who speak a different
language at home. They are segregated and forced to learn English,
while never acknowledging the unique culture they were raised in,
and not enabling the other students to learn FROM them. Learning, in
school, comes from the books and teachers. We will learn Spanish
from a BOOK, not from a Spanish-speaking student; and not until 7th
grade.

I have never felt it would be beneficial to stick my 6-yr. old in a
room full of other 6-yr. olds. I believe God created a world full of
people of all ages and sexes to insure that the younger ones and
older ones learn from each other. A few years ago, we were living
thousands of miles from any older family members, so I brought my
kids (then 5 and 2) to an assisted living facility, so they could
interact with the elderly. Staff members told us that many of the
older people would wake up every day and ask if we would be visiting
soon. We always went on Wednesdays. My daughters learned some old
show tunes while one of the men played piano and the others would
sing along. If I didn't have to chase my 2-yr. old around, I would
have had plenty of women ready to share the art of crocheting with
me (something I've always wanted to learn.) If a friend were too
sick to come out of their room during our visit, we would often
spend a few minutes in their room. I always let them give the kids
whatever cookies they had baked for them, and I ended up cleaning a
few of the apartments while we visited, simply because I would have
done the same for my own Grandmother. Every room had pictures from
my kids posted on their refrigerators. We called this "Visiting the
Grandmas and Grandpas" and my daughters both (almost 2 yrs later)
have fond memories of our visits. I'm sure that if we were still
visiting there, my unborn child would have a thousand handmade
blankets and booties to keep him warm all winter.

I don't remember any such experiences in my entire School life,
although I do remember being a bit afraid of old people if they were
too wrinkly or weak looking. I never really knew anyone over 60. I
never sped down the hall on someone's wheel-chaired lap, squealing
as we popped wheelies and screeched around corners. I never got to
hear stories about what life was like before indoor plumbing and
electricity, from the point of view of a woman with Alzheimers, who
might believe she was still 5 yrs old, talking with my daughter as
if she were a friend. I never got to help a 90-yr. old woman keep
her arm steady while she painted a picture. And I never watched a
room full of "grandma's" waiting for me by the window, because we
were 15 minutes late.

On a recent visit to an Art Gallery, we noticed a man walking back
and forth, carrying framed artwork from his old pickup truck. I
asked my 6 yr. old if she thought he might be the artist. We both
agreed that was a possibility, and after a little pep-talk to
overcome her stage fright, she approached him and asked. He was the
artist, and he was bringing in his work to be evaluated by the
curator. We all sat down and he explained some of his techniques and
listened to her opinions about which piece she liked best. He told
about how he enjoyed art when he was 6 and would "sell" pictures to
family and friends. He recounted how he felt while creating a few of
the pieces, and how each one has special meaning to him. He even let
her know how nervous he was to show them to the curator and how he
hoped she found them as interesting as we did. As he was called into
the office, a group of thirty-four 3rd graders filed past, ever so
quietly, while their teacher explained each piece on the walls. The
children were so quiet and well behaved. They didn't seem to mind
moving on from one picture to the next (The problem with
homeschoolers is they tend to linger on things they enjoy). They
didn't seem to have any questions or comments (Maybe they'll discuss
that later in class). And they never got a chance to meet the
gentleman in the pickup truck. I hope my kids aren't missing out on
any "socialization. "


Have a great day ladies.

Excellent article Dragonfly! Thanks for sharing!

Wow. That was amazing. It is good now and then to be reminded of why we are doing all this. Thanks, Dragonfly.


Kristi

I know it was kinda long but what the heck... We all like to read, right? Right???
lol