Homeschool Chat Part III

[dizzymomx4]

Still searching for information on HSing High School. I am looking at a wide scope of curriculum and wanted to know what some of you are using.
I know that we will continue with Math-U-See, both of my DS's love this program and it works well for us.

I am looking at Abeka and Alpha Omega, still need something for science.
Any input on what has worked for any of you?

Thanks for any input!

 

[dizzymomx4]

Right now my DD is with CAVA in the K12 system. While we really like it, we want to change out of it.

DD will be in grade 7 next year. Was wondering what curriculum is good. What books, courses etc. I want to be more independant with the homeschooling.

Thanks for any advice for a 7th grader

Hi there~

We currently have a DS10( 4th grade) ad DS 14 (8th grade). The curriculum that we have used that the kids love is :

Math-U-See for our math. We have been using this for 5 years and they really enjoy it.

The Boys both use Soaring with Spelling, Winning with Writing and Growing in Grammer. These are written by Tamela Davis and are very easy to understand. There is a lesson per day, as well as tests for the units.

For History and Science we have used alot of unit studies, we really enjoy lapbooks by In the Hand of a Child.
We have used Galloping the Globe and Considering Gods Creation.

Now I need help with HSing High School...DS will be a freshman in the fall and boy , am I nervous!

 

[andee515]

Does anyone have an opinion of either of these curriculum. As Texas resident we can enroll in either one for free and I am looking for a structured, graded curriculum for my daughter to use for 5th grade next year.

 

[TwinPrincessMama]

Does anyone have an opinion of either of these curriculum. As Texas resident we can enroll in either one for free and I am looking for a structured, graded curriculum for my daughter to use for 5th grade next year.

Personally I prefer Calvert but I'm from Maryland so not only do I know many people who use them and I also know people who have gone through their school. I would look at both websites and see how they line up with how your daughter learns best. K12 has sample lessons and Calvert also has sample lesson and all the books they use.

http://virtualschools.calvertschool...options/calvert-school-curriculum/fifth-grade

 

[TwinPrincessMama]

Ok, so now I need some help. Anyone have to convince a spouse that wasn't on board with homeschooling? I've been homeschooling the kids for pre-K and would like to continue to homeschool them into K and 1st (at the least) after that I may not be able for a few years due to my schooling. To complicate this fact we just moved to a place with a K deadline we don't meet. So spouse wants to enroll them in preK "just for the experience" and I think that's the stupidest idea ever. I looked at the curriculum online and we've completely about 1/2 - 2/3 of the prek objective and I think we will complete all/most by the end of the year. I need some talking points.

 

[chicagoshannon]

Can you show him the statistics from the DC schools? For some reason i thought the DC schools were pretty bad. That could be old info though. Tell him worst case scenario is they go to school the following year if it doesn't work out at home.

My DH wasn't hard to convince because he believes in challenging kids and letting them skip grades if needed. Around here it's impossible to skip grades so he agreed right away.

 

[sleeperclan]

Still searching for information on HSing High School. I am looking at a wide scope of curriculum and wanted to know what some of you are using.
I know that we will continue with Math-U-See, both of my DS's love this program and it works well for us.

I am looking at Abeka and Alpha Omega, still need something for science.
Any input on what has worked for any of you?

Thanks for any input!

I'm graduating my last home schooler this year We have used a variety of curriculum through the HS years: Starting Points literature, my own curriculum for literature and writing, BJU Math/History, Apologia Science (excellent IMHO), PACE economics, and various other things. I tried to gear the HS studies to my "children's" interests and gave them a lot of self-study time (with discussion). With DS (now graduated) we did everything from Shakespeare to Chemistry, but with DD(17) we are doing geometry to herbal studies. I have ordered from CBD with quite a bit of success and their prices are very reasonable. Home schooling High School can be challenging, but so much fun!!

 

[dizzymomx4]

I'm graduating my last home schooler this year We have used a variety of curriculum through the HS years: Starting Points literature, my own curriculum for literature and writing, BJU Math/History, Apologia Science (excellent IMHO), PACE economics, and various other things. I tried to gear the HS studies to my "children's" interests and gave them a lot of self-study time (with discussion). With DS (now graduated) we did everything from Shakespeare to Chemistry, but with DD(17) we are doing geometry to herbal studies. I have ordered from CBD with quite a bit of success and their prices are very reasonable. Home schooling High School can be challenging, but so much fun!!

Thank you so much for the info!

I am looking at Apologia for science too and think that is what I am going to use. I really like what I see so far! I am also looking at Notgras for History.

I know this is going to have its ups and downs but am sooooo looking for the rewards!

 

[sleeperclan]

Thank you so much for the info!

I am looking at Apologia for science too and think that is what I am going to use. I really like what I see so far! I am also looking at Notgras for History.

I know this is going to have its ups and downs but am sooooo looking for the rewards!

Apologia also has online classes. I went as far as Advanced Chemistry with DS, but when he wanted to take Physics his last year, I turned him over to the Apologia staff!

 

[jacksmomma]

I need some advice and encouragement! I love HSing DS, but for the past month or so it has turned into a battle of wills. DS is 5 and has become very lazy with his schoolwork. He wants to rush through everything just to get it done and even if I make him re-do the work it is still very sloppy. He is very "slug-like" right now! I used to see this attitude with my middle schoolers when I was a classroom teacher, but I never expected to see it in KG! I come across all of these stories of kids who merrily march to the kitchen table to do school and try their best to do a great job, but in my house it has turned into a stressful battle of me and my little slug...slowly creeping along and producing mediocre work. Any advice?

 

[sleeperclan]

I need some advice and encouragement! I love HSing DS, but for the past month or so it has turned into a battle of wills. DS is 5 and has become very lazy with his schoolwork. He wants to rush through everything just to get it done and even if I make him re-do the work it is still very sloppy. He is very "slug-like" right now! I used to see this attitude with my middle schoolers when I was a classroom teacher, but I never expected to see it in KG! I come across all of these stories of kids who merrily march to the kitchen table to do school and try their best to do a great job, but in my house it has turned into a stressful battle of me and my little slug...slowly creeping along and producing mediocre work. Any advice?

Is your son normally very active? Sometimes, we have to tailor our lessons to each child's learning style. I found this out with DS when he was 5. He is a sensory learner. What I was trying to do was to fit him into the mold of a regular classroom-style atmosphere. So, I tried to tailor his lessons to his style. It made a big difference to my DS and our homeschooling. I didn't chain him to the seat, used colored flash cards, did hands on science experiments, etc. Math was tougher as he had to learn order of operations...he likes to know the big picture and figure out how to get there on his own This was really the only subject I had to insist on procedure, but we got through it! He's still a big picture, sensory kind of guy who is a self-taught Web Designer (a very sensory profession). Hope this helps some!

 

[okwMomOf4]

Good Evening everyone
It's my sincerest hope that I am not intruding on your thread and that my very rudimentary questions aren't annoying.

I am in a very early investigative phase with the idea of homeschooling.
I was wondering if anyone could point me to useful websites or links to continue my search for answers and information?
I am in Canada, and have found a few useful sites, but I have also come across many dead links, and outdated or closed groups.

What was your starting point for gathering information on whether homeschooling would be a fit for your family?
I have long considered it. I often thought "Oh I wish ..." and lately I am finding myself thinking .."You know, I just might be able to do this..."
There's no one major issue that has me thinking that I would like to homeschool. Rather, it's many small seemingly insignificant things adding together that has me just tired of our current school experience.

So if anyone could point me to where to start reading, or books, or articles.. anything that can be a jumping off point for this decision I would really appreciate it!

Hi Pigletto,

I was looking back at the last few pages of posts and noticed yours.

I know what you mean about "many small seemingly insignificant things adding together." I felt like the frog put in water that is slowly heated till the frog boiled to death. If something big had happened, it would have been an easy decision. Instead each time something would happen, I'd get upset and then I'd tell myself I was overreacting. Eventually, I realized the cumulative effect of all those situations and decided, with much trepidation, to give homeschooling a try. 14 years later, I know it was the right choice for us.

For info:
HSLDA (stands for Home School Legal Defense Association) has a lot of up-to-date info on getting started homeschooling.

I can't post links as I have not made 10 posts, but you can go to their website and choose "You can homeschool." That will take you to the "Toddlers to Tweens" section. If you have older kids, there's a link on the right side for "Homeschooling through High School"

In addition to all the info they have, under "Resources" you'll find lists of other books and articles.

Hope that is helpful

 

[Corjack]

Can anyone give me thoughts on Time4Learning?

We use it for my DD8 in 2nd grade and she really likes it. It covers lots of good stuff and is fun. My DS4 likes to watch her do it. It is easy to level them up if they need it!

 

[DreadpiratK]

We've been home schooling now for a long time, almost 20 years, and I could give you hundreds of reasons to do it, but I had a bit of a revelation the other day I thought I'd share here:

I went upstairs the other day and heard my DS (18) and my DD (20) (both home schooled all the way) in her room playing a video game. Nothing odd there, but they were laughing and having such a good time, and I realized for the first time, my kids are each others best friends, even at the age when siblings usually drift apart. That may sound odd, but family are the only ones likely to stick by you in life, and to be best friends as well is, I think, is a major advantage. They of course have many other friends as well, but for me this was just one more affirmation that it was all worth it.

 

[dizzymomx4]

We've been home schooling now for a long time, almost 20 years, and I could give you hundreds of reasons to do it, but I had a bit of a revelation the other day I thought I'd share here:

I went upstairs the other day and heard my DS (18) and my DD (20) (both home schooled all the way) in her room playing a video game. Nothing odd there, but they were laughing and having such a good time, and I realized for the first time, my kids are each others best friends, even at the age when siblings usually drift apart. That may sound odd, but family are the only ones likely to stick by you in life, and to be best friends as well is, I think, is a major advantage. They of course have many other friends as well, but for me this was just one more affirmation that it was all worth it.

I 100% agree to that! There is something special about the bond that my two younger boys share. They are the Best of Friends and the Worst of Enemies! Family is the only one that sticks by you in life

 

[mariezp]

We've been home schooling now for a long time, almost 20 years, and I could give you hundreds of reasons to do it, but I had a bit of a revelation the other day I thought I'd share here:

I went upstairs the other day and heard my DS (18) and my DD (20) (both home schooled all the way) in her room playing a video game. Nothing odd there, but they were laughing and having such a good time, and I realized for the first time, my kids are each others best friends, even at the age when siblings usually drift apart. That may sound odd, but family are the only ones likely to stick by you in life, and to be best friends as well is, I think, is a major advantage. They of course have many other friends as well, but for me this was just one more affirmation that it was all worth it.

I totally agree! My daughter is 11 and she has been having issues with a few of the little friends she has. I have been trying to explain to her how kids can be so "flighty". That when you are young friends may come and go BUT how your family will be there for you forever. Not sure she totally understands it now but I do know someday she will when she and her brother are still best of friends. Like you, I love to hear my children in the other room sharing special moments and know that they are creating a unbreakable bond that will remain strong and last forever.

 

[chris31997]

I need some advice and encouragement! I love HSing DS, but for the past month or so it has turned into a battle of wills. DS is 5 and has become very lazy with his schoolwork. He wants to rush through everything just to get it done and even if I make him re-do the work it is still very sloppy. He is very "slug-like" right now! I used to see this attitude with my middle schoolers when I was a classroom teacher, but I never expected to see it in KG! I come across all of these stories of kids who merrily march to the kitchen table to do school and try their best to do a great job, but in my house it has turned into a stressful battle of me and my little slug...slowly creeping along and producing mediocre work. Any advice?

I would recommend changing it up. Maybe if you do spelling have him bounce a ball as he spells the words. For science grow plants. Instead of writing every sentance or word, go every other word.

I know for my son, that I need to keep it as short as possible. He has a short attention span. We try to keep it as active and rolling as possible.

For the record, neither of my kids ran to the kitchen table happily We have battled laziness, cheating, anger, and more. But we have tried to keep it fun and keep in mind that it was all about the kids. We wanted to make sure that the kids had the best education. The kids were exposed to what we wanted and as much as possible. We have bad days and we have great days. We trey to be as flexible as possible

It will get better as you and your DS figure it all out

 

[sleeperclan]

We've been home schooling now for a long time, almost 20 years, and I could give you hundreds of reasons to do it, but I had a bit of a revelation the other day I thought I'd share here:

I went upstairs the other day and heard my DS (18) and my DD (20) (both home schooled all the way) in her room playing a video game. Nothing odd there, but they were laughing and having such a good time, and I realized for the first time, my kids are each others best friends, even at the age when siblings usually drift apart. That may sound odd, but family are the only ones likely to stick by you in life, and to be best friends as well is, I think, is a major advantage. They of course have many other friends as well, but for me this was just one more affirmation that it was all worth it.

Exactly! DS(20) and DD(17) are and have been best friends forever! DS is moving to Minnesota in a few months and it's going to be a sad day for her (and mom) All three of my "kids" have always enjoyed being with their family. I'm so thankful for that and the memories we've shared

 

[mks18412]

Last week my dd9 started Time4Learning. We both love it. I would highly suggest this HSing site.

 

[NHWX]

Hi all!

I've read over the past couple of pages and saw lots of comments about high school and thought I'd add in my 2 cents.

It is possible and like anything else, there will be good points and bad points. I was recently asked why I didn't have a job and while there are many responses to that I mentioned that I was saving our family $28K per year. That's the basic day student tuition at a local private school.

Resources

Math: We've used our state's virtual charter school (free), Dr. Callahan's video series that accompanies Jacob's Geometry, another video + textbook for Algebra 2 and supplemented as needed with khanacademy.com, brightstorm.com and Thinkwell.com videos.

Foreign Language: local high school, Oklahoma State German Online, Rosetta Stone (not recommended for Latin if you want your child to learn Latin grammar) and the state virtual charter school.

Literature: Our best bet was using the Michael Clay Thompson curricula but my two are not writers. We definitely supplemented with appropriate to the child literature.

History: We're all over the place here. I used The Unfinished Nation as a spine for American History. I bought a used copy for $5 and resold it after using it for two teens! We've also used Teaching Company lectures, textbooks picked off the AP European History suggested use lists. For one child I used the readings (photocopies plus books) from an old political science course that I had taken in college.

Science: Lots of science here. I'm not particularly thrilled with the Spectrum Chemistry book. I did like all their supplies though for the labs. We're much happier with Apologia for chemistry and physics. I greatly appreciate their teacher manuals. For one child I used the now-named PLATO learning available through homeschoolbuyersco-op.org. For the other child, I used an online textbook through hippocampus.org plus the accompanying physical textbook. We did lots of labs individually and with a group. I've got a wonderful resource in that a local church has a homeschool science lab group which meets twice a month. Introduction to Mechanical Engineering is pieced together using education resources from autodesk.com.

PE: hiking, kendo, skiing, running, etc.

Art/Art History: Teaching Company lectures, used books, plenty of art materials, museum visits, etc.

I hope this helps!

NHWX