*** Homeschool List ***

[teacups]

Differing parenting styles is hard.
I dont think I could do it. Parenting is hard enough, ya know?
Good luck to you.

 

[teacups]

We are taking our kids out of school for a whole week to go to Disneyland... for what I have dubbed our KICK OFF TO HOME SCHOOL TRIP!

I dont care about public school anymore than the absolute minimum now. They have done such a number on us... I'm just trying to tick along until summer if I can (without going to jail for truancy!) My kids are so happy about HSing... but who wouldnt with a kick off like that?
Hey. You do whatch gotta do.

I feel a bit sad... but I just cant look back. I have worked with the kids in my DD's class since kindergaten and will miss seeing them. We will stay in contact with some of them, but you know how that goes after a while.

This trip is as much for me as anyone else I think...

Thanks to everyone for all the great info here!

 

[tnmomof4]

OT- parenting dilemma, longish

I'm taking 11 & 9yo DDs to Great Wolf Lodge for the older one's 12th birthday. Hubby isn't going, long story. Hubby and I do not see eye to eye on some things. I don't see the harm in fantasy-type play and careful selection of fantasy media. We just watched Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium and he was OK with that, but, say, Harry Potter is a BIG no, just to give you a sense/background.

The GWL we're going to has MagiQuest. For those who don't know, it's an amped up video game that starts with a "magic wand" (electronic device) that does various interactive things around the resort. I take it from the website there are "quests" and games. DDs, esp 11yo, are going to want to do this. BIG TIME. If hubby ever sees the website, he would flip. I don't see the harm in it. We have gotten to where we no longer are a united front on pretty much anything with DDs (another long story, involves gender differences and respect).

So, WWYD? Let the children play the game and deal with hubby later? (when they show him the wands and want to tell him about it) or...tell them they can't play and they will know that it's his influence, not mine (and, of course, deal with the crankiness that will ensue, but that's part of my Mom-Job, so I don't sweat that much).

I actually have been to MagiQuest two times. Is this your first time going there? My kids love it. Your kids will have such a good time. I think you should talk to him about it before you go. Won't he be really mad if you go and don't tell him? They will show him the wands and tell him about how they use those. The kids will love it, and they will want to tell him all about it.

I admit I myself am a bit wishy-washy on the magic thing. I don't let my kids read or watch anything Harry Potter, but yet I love Chronicles of Narnia. I guess it is a religion thing with me, but not really strict. I love Disney magic, but my older boys know it's not real. I guess I am wishy-washy because my older boys can play MagiQuest and they know it is not real. It is just a game. I guess some things seem more extreme than I want my kid's exposed to. My DH doesn't want my kids watching the HP movies, so we just don't, but he had no problem with MagiQuest because it was a game. I have never seen the HP movies to judge them for myself. From what I have seen the movies seem like real magic. My DH doesn't mind magic when the kids know its just fun and not real. He has a problem when it has that bad or evil aspect to it.

Anyway.... If you have any questions about MagiQuest let me know. I think I still have a quest book somewhere. I would try to figure out why he is okay with some magic. Tell your DH about how you play MagiQuest. See why he was okay with Mr. Magoriums' movie. Maybe you could emphasize that MagiQuest is just a game.

 

[wvdislover]

We are taking our kids out of school for a whole week to go to Disneyland... for what I have dubbed our KICK OFF TO HOME SCHOOL TRIP!

I dont care about public school anymore than the absolute minimum now. They have done such a number on us... I'm just trying to tick along until summer if I can (without going to jail for truancy!) My kids are so happy about HSing... but who wouldnt with a kick off like that?
Hey. You do whatch gotta do.

I feel a bit sad... but I just cant look back. I have worked with the kids in my DD's class since kindergaten and will miss seeing them. We will stay in contact with some of them, but you know how that goes after a while.

This trip is as much for me as anyone else I think...

Thanks to everyone for all the great info here!

As excited as I am about starting to HS DD10 next week, I have also mourned over the decision. B/C we are taking her out for what can be summed up as a medical reason (Asperger's and other learning issues that are making school difficult to handle), it's almost like a parent mourning after the death of a child or a parent who has just given birth to a child with severe disabilities. I mourn over the fact that she's not going to be able to participate in different activities at the end of this year: field day, awards day, big end-of-year field trip that entire 5th grade goes on, end of year pool party, etc. It's really selfish on my part, b/c I'm really mourning over the things I was looking forward to for her, the big things that the kids do to celebrate the end of elementary school, and she's not going to be able to do these things now, kind of like the dreams many parents have for their kids. Even if she had stayed in school, though, I know she probably would have been upset after field day (b/c she didn't win anything), wouldn't have received any awards (something else that would have upset her), no one would have probably wanted to partner up with her for the field trips (and I would have had to go as the only parent, b/c they were afraid the other kids would pick on her or that she would wander off, which she has been known to do). So, I know we're making the right decision. This is going to be better for her academically, socially, and emotionally. Still...my original "dreams" for her are drifting away. Time to just make new ones, though. She is really excited about homeschooling, and we're planning our own field trip with another HS friend, which they are both ECSTATIC over! We're also planning a possible trip to WDW, and maybe a Disney Cruise, in Sept (hopefully during HS days), something we weren't going to be able to do if she'd gone to middle school, so...

So, congrats on your decision, and mine! While it brings changes, remember who and what you're doing it for. Hopefully, that will make the sad parts easier. Have a great time on your DL trip!

 

[meandtheguys2]

 

[pperfectmom]

Hi. Sha_lyn directed me over here to meet up with all you homeschoolers. I have tons of questions but will try to hold most of them in until I have actually read all the pages first. I don't actually HS yet but do plan to do so in the near future if my DH does not freak out over it. * He is definately still on the fence about the whole subject.

*I should say I don't OFFICIALLY HS yet, since we are always learning new things together.

 

[goofy's friends]

Hi. I was directed here from the Community Board. We have officially pulled DD 3rd grade out of school. I won't go into all the reasons, but would love some help!! I am going to homeschool the remainder of the year, but next year she and her siblings will go to private school. So, I don't want to buy curriculum. I have been to the teacher store and purchased some things to get started. I was a teacher years ago, so I have some things and ideas. BUT, I would love websites that you find particularly helpful, activities that are easy to pull off, organization ideas, whatever you think will help!! Thansk so much!!!

 

[mykidsintow]

As excited as I am about starting to HS DD10 next week, I have also mourned over the decision. B/C we are taking her out for what can be summed up as a medical reason (Asperger's and other learning issues that are making school difficult to handle), it's almost like a parent mourning after the death of a child or a parent who has just given birth to a child with severe disabilities.

We homeschool for medical reasons. DS, almost 7, is 1st grade. He was drug exposed at birth. He has severe allergies (artifical colors and flavors). He reacts in ADHD behavior and said "mom I just can't sit. I want to, but I just can't!" Sounds simple, pack a lunch, right? But he reactsto hand soaps with artificial colors, paints, playdoh, etc. Its not as simple as it seems.

Our daughter is 4. She has Escobar Syndrome (very rare genetic disorder). She is doing K work at 4, but has extreme physical differences, uses a power wheelchair, etc.

It was a hard decision at first to keep our kids home (they never went to PS). However, it is truely a blessing. Meet the homeschoolers in your area! Sure, you daughter will still encounter questions, but its *SO* awsome to be there to *help* guide appropriate conversation instead of it ending up with teasing or unacceptable behaviors, both in my kids part and the part of other children. Homeschooling families can just be so much more accepting and open! We had to try a few different groups, but we have found one we love. We drive to get to them, but its totally worth it!

Don't mourn over the things other kids are going to do in PS..... CELEBRATE all the field trips you can take and experience as homeschoolers! I am sure if ou find a group in your area you will find they have many of the same events. Our HSing group will have weekly pool parties at our house this spring/summr! FINALLY we won't need to drive! They will drive a bit for free pool!

Congrats on your decision! If you need a year just yell anytime!

 

[wvdislover]

Thanks for the support Beth I know I'm making the right decision for her, and I'm really excited about it. I think it will be easier, once I get through this week (Friday is supposed to be her last day of school. I'm waiting on my letter from the school board that says I'm "approved" to HS her). I am planning on joining the local HS group, so we can meet some other girls (or boys) that will hopefully be more accepting of her. I was asking her about school tonight, asking if the other kids talk to her. She said that they don't; when I asked her if she talks to them, she told me she tries, but they just walk away from her. I told her how sorry I am that the other kids treat her that way, but she said it's ok. I think she' just gotten used to it. It broke my heart to hear her tell me this. Why are kids so cruel? Fortunately, she does have a few good friends at church, one of whom she's been friends with since they were like 3 years old. She's so excited that my DD is going to be homeschooling now, too. We're planning a field trip together later this year!

 

[DawnM]

Dianna,

Can you tell me if the tickets are only good the days you are going? I can't think of a worse weekend to go than over Labor Day weekend. I have heard the parks are super crowded. I was actually pretty surprised you chose this weekend to start the trip.

Dawn

Hi everyone,

I just wanted to let you know that we at Carolina Homeschooler (a SC statewide homeschool support group) are already planning our 3rd homeschool trip to Disney World this September (Labor Day week) and would love for you to join us! Register now for discounted educational group tickets and Disney's special educational programs for students in grades K4, K5 through 12th grade.

We're hoping we'll get free dining again this year -- between that and our deeply discounted educational park tickets, we save a lot each year. To find out more, visit our Disney World trip page at carolinahomeschooler.com/travelwdw.htm

We are not a travel company, and don't profit from our trips. We're just trying to gather a large enough group to reach minimums for a variety of educational programs and discounted park tickets.

Happy Homeschooling, and Happy Traveling!

Dianna

 

[DawnM]

Really? I have been there over Labor Day weekend and it has been really crowded. The day after Labor Day holiday was very empty though.

Dawn

Dawn, they're good for 7 days before the main group arrives, and 7 days after, but your children will have to be there for the educational programs, so it's best to plan to go that week.

I've been over Labor Day weekend (and the rest of the week) for the past two years and crowds were very low (we walked on rides until noon or so, even on Labor Day weekend). I guess it works to our benefit for people to think the parks are super crowded, because they stay away and we have the parks almost to ourselves.

Let me know if you have any other questions.

Warmly,
Dianna

 

[disneymom3]

Me too, Dawn. I have wondered the last couple of years why WDW does the homeschool days in early Sept. Too hot, and Labor day wknd is WAY too crowded!

Blech. That is not why I homeschool!

 

[wvdislover]

Has anyone heard what the actual dates of this September's homeschool days are (not Carolina homeschool days, just Disney's homeschool days)?

 

[Aristomommy]

Well, maybe we just caught the right parks on the right days. It's been like a ghost town for our group, and that's why we're willing to brave the heat. It wasn't unbearably hot the year before last, except for one day. Last year it was hot (high humidity) for three days, but we took advantage of afternoon dips in the pool, naps, and waterpark visits and then returned to the parks in the evening.

We chose this week due to low crowds, and so parents wouldn't need to take off as many days for work (since Labor Day is usually a paid holiday), and to take advantage of the free dining.

I'm not sure when Disney's next homeschool days are. Our group prefers to choose our own educational programs and not have to pay the extra fee for the Homeschool Days program(s). I think they have some planned for later in September, though.

Dianna

How can I find out about the educational programs? We love WDW and next year will be our first year of homeschooling. If we can include educational experiences to the trip, it would be even better. Thanks.

 

[LUV2BNWDW]

Hi..
I pulled my girls out this year for the first time, they are in fifth grade. So far we have loved it. We made it to Disney Homeschool days in Jan. and the program we did was so much fun for the girls. I just wanted to introduce myself. I've lurked for a while and figured it was time to step out of the shadows.

Tracy

 

[teacups]

Is there anything like this in DisneyLand? We are too far from Florida.

 

[wvdislover]

Hi everyone,

I just wanted to let you know that we at Carolina Homeschooler (a SC statewide homeschool support group) are already planning our 3rd homeschool trip to Disney World this September (Labor Day week) and would love for you to join us! Register now for discounted educational group tickets and Disney's special educational programs for students in grades K4, K5 through 12th grade.

We're hoping we'll get free dining again this year -- between that and our deeply discounted educational park tickets, we save a lot each year. To find out more, visit our Disney World trip page at carolinahomeschooler.com/travelwdw.htm

We are not a travel company, and don't profit from our trips. We're just trying to gather a large enough group to reach minimums for a variety of educational programs and discounted park tickets.

Happy Homeschooling, and Happy Traveling!

Dianna

So, can anyone go with you guys? The webpage makes it sound as though you have to be a member of your HS organization to get these discounts. The Showbiz Magic sounds SO COOL!!! I think my DD10 (will be in 6th grade then, though) would LOVE it.

 

[DawnM]

Typically it is the 3rd week of September. You do not have to attend the homeschool days program. There are 2 free programs and then 3 or 4 you have the option to attend and pay for.

Prices this last January were $117 for a 5 day one park per day option OR $130 for a 5 park hoppers OR $142 for a 5 day park hopper plus 4 vouchers for water parks or DisneyQuest.

I really liked the January days as it was cooler! But I might be willing to brave the heat.

Dawn

Well, maybe we just caught the right parks on the right days. It's been like a ghost town for our group, and that's why we're willing to brave the heat. It wasn't unbearably hot the year before last, except for one day. Last year it was hot (high humidity) for three days, but we took advantage of afternoon dips in the pool, naps, and waterpark visits and then returned to the parks in the evening.

We chose this week due to low crowds, and so parents wouldn't need to take off as many days for work (since Labor Day is usually a paid holiday), and to take advantage of the free dining.

I'm not sure when Disney's next homeschool days are. Our group prefers to choose our own educational programs and not have to pay the extra fee for the Homeschool Days program(s). I think they have some planned for later in September, though.

Dianna

 

[DawnM]

Not yet, but the last couple of years it has been the 3rd week of September. They have now added the 2nd week of January as well.

Dawn

Has anyone heard what the actual dates of this September's homeschool days are (not Carolina homeschool days, just Disney's homeschool days)?

 

[disneymom3]

I really want to find out about the fall homeschool days at WDW. I think we are going to have to go over MEA which includes a couple of days off from public school since DD will be there then. I sure would like to get those prices though!