Brooke's Homeschool Journal

2009-06-24T15:32:00.006-04:00

It been a long time since I have updated here and loads of wonderful things have happened in that time. Instead of trying to catch up by posting about each and everything thing that has happened, I have decided to post some photos of some of our adventures...

A Science Project:

Visiting a cow farm.

Visiting the Cemetery of the Innocents...

Making friends at the beach...

Training the dogs:

Learning about measurements and how to bake:

Disney On Ice

Zoo

Watching the sun rise over the ocean:

Sidewalk Chalk Fun:

Schoolwork...

Band Concert:

Dance Recital:

Swimming Lessons:

Bread Making:

Birthday Surprises:

Learning about Lightening:

Schoolwork:

Caring for the animals:

Building the Tour De Eiffel:

Freebies!

2008-07-02T12:42:00.001-04:00

This is an awesome site for anyone using Susan Bauer's The Story Of The World. It has reviews/quizzes that you can use for free! And we all love free!!

Our Current Homeschool

2008-06-12T19:30:00.002-04:00

Here is our current homeschool:

Bible Study: Family Entertainment Network: Animated Stories From the New Testament (currently reading John The Baptist)

Copy Work: Rules Of Civility

Penmanship: A Reason for Handwriting

Read Aloud (read by me) Anne of Avonlea (click to read online for free!)

Reading: Currently, The Secret Garden (click to read online for free!)

Language Arts: Learning Language Arts Through Literature (Yellow Book)

Math: Horizon's Grade 3

History: The Story Of The World Vol. 1 and History of US - The First Americans

Science: Considering God's Creation & Exploring God's Creation and Scott Foresman Science Diamond Edition Grade 4 ( love this one! It is allot of fun!)

Art: Abeka Art 3 as well as various misc. projects and crafts from here and there.

Foreign Language: Hugo in 3 months Spanish

I don't know how well the Hugo in 3 months - Spanish is going to work out as it seems to e targeted at a much older audience so we'll see what happens.

Other than that everything is going great!!

Bookmark It.

United States Of America

2007-08-31T06:42:00.000-04:00

A couple of weeks ago one of my neighbors came over and told me her homeschool friend was having a yard sale with lots of homeschool materials and best of all she was selling them cheap! Now everyone knows that I would never pass up anything that included the words: homeschool, yard sale and cheap so of course I headed right over and I had a ball going through all of the items she had. I ended up walking away with a huge box for $5.00 and allot of the items were brand new! What a wonderful deal!

One of the items I got was a map of the United States that came with little State stickers, Brooke had a really good time completing it yesterday and only needed help with about 5 states!

Way to go Brooke, I am very proud of you! :)

Daily Work With A Smile

2007-05-15T20:03:00.000-04:00

Paintings

2007-05-08T19:53:00.000-04:00

Brooke's Art Work Display

Homeschool Links

2007-05-05T16:18:00.000-04:00

Here are various links to homeschool vendors, publishers, resources and support groups. I cannot guarantee that all are Christian based and just because they are listed here does not mean I endorse them.

Curriculum and Publishers

A Beka Book - Commonly found in private schools, this program is widely used by home-schooling families. This is a textbook-based curriculum, which is often considered accelerated. (This is what we use and I do highly recommend it.)

Amanda Bennett's Unit Studies - Most of these unit studies are available on CD-ROM. The Internet is utilized more than library books, which makes finding necessary resources easier and less time-consuming. Various topics/themes are available.

Apologia Science - Many homeschoolers are enjoying this comprehensive Science program. Subject areas such as General Science, Physical Science, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Advanced Biology, and Advanced Chemistry are available. If enrolled in Crossroads, high School students, who complete these subject areas (with the exception of General Science) will receive a Honors credit.

Beautiful Feet Books - Beautiful Feet offers study guides pertaining to Early American History, World History, Medieval History Through Literature, California History, Geography Through Literature, History of Science Through Literature, History of the Horse Through Literature, and US and World History Through Literature From the Civil War to Vietnam.

Bible Study Guide For All Ages - Time lines, activity pages, maps, songs, and more make this program desired by many wanting to study the Bible at home.

BiblioPlan for Families - Biblioplan is a history curriculum guide that combines Scripture with the study of history. Being that this is a guide, other books and materials will be needed. It is a wonderful integration of history, literature, and Scripture.

Cadron Creek - This is the home of the Prairie Primer. The Prairie Primer is a homeschool unit study, which focuses on the Little House on the Prairie books. In Addition they feature a new study on Anne of Green Gables. Other curriculum is also available.

Calvert School - Calvert is ideal for those who want a complete curriculum set. This includes a thorough and easy-to-follow lesson manual plus an optional teacher service. The texts used are secular and are for grades pre-K to grade 8.

Chalk Dust Math - Many home-schoolers at the high school level use this video-based program. Basic Math, Pre-Algebra, Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, SAT Math Review, College Algebra, Trigonometry, Pre-Calculus and Calculus I are available.

Cornerstone Curriculum - David Quine's Mathematics program, Making Math Meaningful, has proven to be a favorite among many who homeschool. Other Mathematic materials are available.

Design-A-Study - Kathryn Stout's Design-A-Study curriculum guides have been helpful to families who write their own curriculum/unit study, or who want to supplement their current curriculum.

Diagnostic Prescriptive Services - In addition to their homeschool-friendly assessment tests, DPS is now offering curriculum. Write With The Best - Modeling Writing After Great Works of World Literature is a writing program for grades 3-12 and may be used with all children in one family. It focuses on the writing of authors to teach descriptive writing skills. Additionally, Roots and Fruits, is a comprehensive vocabulary curriculum for grades K-12 and features 673 English forms of Greek and Latin Roots and Prefixes with their meanings as well as 1716 vocabulary words. We will be reviewing these programs in the near future.

D.I.V.E. Into Math - This is a wonderful program for those who use Saxon Mathematics. The D.I.V.E. Into Math program includes a CD-ROM. The child places the CD-ROM into the computer before beginning each lesson. An instructor teaches the lesson to the student by using examples not included in the text. The child is encouraged to work the problems with the teacher, and after the examples are completed, the child finishes the lesson on their own. This program will be ideal for students who learn best with visual or auditory instruction. Saxon 5/4, 6/5, 7/6, 8/7, Algebra 1/2, Algebra I, Algebra II, Advanced Mathematics, AP Calculus, AP Physics, and an SAT Math Prep are all available. The cost is affordable at $50.00 per CD (for each subject).

Doorposts - The Doorposts curriculum is bible-based and excellent to use for character training/building.

Eagle's Wings - The ever popular, Considering God's Creation, Science program is available through this publisher. Other popular titles produced by this company include Alphabet Island Phonics and Remembering God's Awesome Acts.

Educators Publishing Services - Many children have learned to read or strengthened their reading skills using the Explode the Code series of workbooks. Many workbooks to help children of various academic levels may be found here, including the Wordly Wise series.

Five In A Row - An extremely popular literature-based unity study curriculum for children ages 8-12. Wonderful children's books and easy-to-use manual has made this a favorite. Some of the books, unfortunately, are out-of-print and difficult to find. Many parents have made finding and obtaining the books a hobby. Other programs are available for children 2-4 and 12 and older.

Future Christian Homemakers - This is an easy-to-follow guide to teaching Home Economics to a small group or single student. Topics include devotionals, cooking, cleaning, and more. Booklets and embroidery bookmarks may be purchased on the site. The guide/handbook is available from R.O.C.K. Solid.

Greenleaf Press - History and Literature go hand-in-hand with this publisher's study guides and materials. These veteran homeschoolers have been producing high quality homeschooling materials, including the well-known Famous Men Of..series, for many years.

Handwriting Without Tears - We have found this to be a solid, friendly hand-writing program. Be sure to purchase the small chalkboards as the children enjoy using them for practice.

Home-Sat - Gaining in popularity is the Home-Sat program. Home-Sat is a division of Bob Jones University. Classes, with teachers, are broadcast through the satellite to homes across the nation. Parents may tape the broadcasts to share with their children at a later time, or the child may view the class while it is being aired. Courses require the use of Bob Jones University textbooks. Field trips, dramatic presentations, and Science experiments make this a fine choice for parents who want a little assistance in schooling.

Institute for Excellence Writing - This company known for its creative writing seminars also produces tapes and programs, which may be used at home.

Key Curriculum Press - This is the company that publishes the Mathematics program Key To. They offer sets of workbooks teaching concepts such as Decimals, Fractions, Geometry, Measurement, Metric Measurement, Percents, and Algebra.

Landmark's Freedom Baptist Curriculum - As the title suggests, this curriculum is a Baptist curriculum; however, many of other denominations will find that it is flexible and well-rounded.

Learning Adventures - A homeschool unit study program, which focuses on history from 2300 B.C. to 1800. Ideal for grades 4-8 and includes lesson plans for 180 days.

Lessons From History - As stated on their website, this program is a biographical approach to history. The units cover a wide range of time periods from Adam to Operation Desert Storm. Handy book lists, hands-on projects, discussion questions, etc. make this a complete program, plus it is affordable.

Life In America - Popular with several Crossroads' families, this history-based unit study features such core books as Life in the New World 1000-1763, Life in the Colonies 1764-1789, Life Establishing a Nation 1790-1849, Life in a Nation 1850-1895, Life on the Frontier 1850-1897, Life in a Victorian Age 1863-1920, and Life in a World at War 1921-. Raeleen Higgins, a mother with Crossroads, is a representative of Life in America curriculum. When ordering by phone or on the website, mention Raeleen, or one may contact Raeleen at higginsr@tampabay.rr.com. We try to support other Crossroads' families as much as possible.

Math-U-See - By using a hands-on approach to Mathematics through the use of manipulatives, the author states that children will better understand it. Colorful blocks are used daily with the program and video assistance is available. Children not only learn the method of solving a mathematical problem - they learn why.

MathRelief - This is a video Algebra I program. Pre-Algebra is not a pre-requisite to use this program. It is more affordable than other video Math programs.

Muggins Math - Learning Math can be fun with these highly entertaining and educational games.

Play 'N Talk - For many years families have taught their children to read with this program. It originally started with vinyl records, and today they use CD-Roms.

Power-Glide - A comprehensive Foreign Language program available at the high school and elementary levels. This program utilizes student workbooks, CDs, and/or audio tapes. Those enrolled in Crossroads at the high school level will receive two credits in Foreign Language at the completion of this program.

Progeny Press - These Literature study guides are comprehensive and Biblically-based.

Robinson Curriculum - This curriculum is computer-based and stresses independent learning. The necessary Literature is included in the twenty-two Cds; however, it does require an extensive amount of printing.

Rod and Staff Publishers - Unfortunately, they do not have a website. To contact them, call (606) 522-4348 or write to them at PO Box 3, 14193 Hwy. 172, Crockett, KY 41413-0003.

School of Tomorrow - Small workbooks, known as PACES, are used to teach five basic subjects, English, Math, Word Building, Social Studies, and Science. Bible is also available as well as high school subjects. Online placement tests are available at this site. For discounted PACES, scroll down to the link for Heartland Educational Ministries.

Shurley Grammar - The Shurley Method is an effective Grammar program, which utilizes a series of questions to teach children parts-of-speech. It is now available to home-schoolers.

Singapore Math - As the name implies, this curriculum does, indeed, come from Singapore-based publishers and is imported into the US. All grade levels are available. This curriculum seems to be gaining popularity.

Sonlight Curriculum - This literature-based curriculum is another favorite among home-schooling families. All grade levels are available. For those wanting a curriculum "heavy" in literature, this would be a great choice.

Total Language Plus - Mostly associated as a Literature guide, this program incorporates Grammar, Vocabulary, Comprehension, Spelling, and Critical Thinking.

TRISMS - TRISMS, Time Related Integrated Studies for Mastering Skills, is a literature and research-based curriculum.

TruthQuest History - Literature-based history program.

Verbocity - Covering approximately 7000 target words with the use of classical literature, this comprehensive vocabulary program is ideal for building vocabulary and raising test scores - including the SAT/ACT - for students in grades 3-10. Lessons do not require parental preparation and can be completed in just fifteen minutes a day. The program, which was designed by a homeschooling father over a period of eight years, is a subscription service. The cost is $9.95 a month for all members of the family. After reviewing the program, we believe that it is well-worth the cost. With the limitations in most vocabulary programs, the fact that this one will grow with the child - and can be used for all students in the family - is refreshing.

VideoText Interactive - A video Algebra program that combines Algebra I and II if all modules are completed. To earn an Algebra I credit, modules A, B, C, D, and E should be completed. For Algebra II, one should complete the entire program (modules A, B, C, D, E, and F).

Visual Manna - A homeschool-friendly art program that teaches visual art techniques and art appreciation. In addition, it supports several core subjects such as geography and history.

The Well-Trained Mind - Source of the popular book The Well-Trained Mind; authors of elementary-level, World History program Story of the World; message boards, reviews, and a variety of information concerning classical education.

Writing Strands - Writing Strands is a creative writing course which has been popular among homeschooling families. From those that I have spoke with they either love it or don't.

Curriculum Vendors and Retailers

ATCO - This California-based company has been providing homeschoolers with a variety of curriculum for several year.

The Back Pack - This company offers new and used textbooks and supplemental materials. Popular home-school titles as well as favorite public school-type textbooks are available.

The Bluestocking Press - This is the publisher of the Richard J. Maybury (Uncle Eric) books. In addition, they offer many other popular titles. One of our favorites is the Lial's Algebra texts. They do not offer all the Lial's texts, but they do have several.

The Book Peddler - This company specializes in literature and history books; however, they do offer a wide variety of general homeschool curriculum.

Christianbook.Com - A variety of popular titles covering various subject areas is available. They also offer books of general Christian interest.

Common Sense Press - These are the people who produce Learning Language Arts Through Literature (LLATL).

Farm Country General Store - Felts, paper dolls, seeds, rubber stamps, and various popular homeschooling titles are offered at this site.

FUN Books - Educational books and materials are available at this "unschooler" friendly site.

Geography Matters - If one is seeking a wide variety of geography teaching aids and curriculum, this is certainly a "must see" site to visit. Maps, atlases, charts, guides, and so much more is available. Of course, ti doesn't stop at geography, they have science-related materials as well as notebooking/timeline information.

God's World Book Club - This is not a "book club". They are a homeschool vendor, who offers a wide variety of homeschooling curriculum and materials.

Heartland Educational Ministries - This Christian ministry provides discounted School of Tomorrow PACES. Prices for PACES are $2.24 for those regularly priced $3.20; $2.52 for paces regularly priced $3.60; and $2.80 for those regularly priced $4.00. Shipping prices are reasonable. Payment in the form of credit cards, checks, COD, or money orders is welcome. Visit their website or call (573) 248-1796. Tell them Crossroads sent you (we receive no compensation). Note: Prices subject to change.

Homelight Books - One of my favorite things about homeschool conventions is the opportunity to meet people that I may not otherwise. The gentlemen at Homelight Books were very friendly and extremely helpful. They were able to locate a couple of items an associate and I were seeking that we couldn't find at the convention. Without a second thought they placed the order immediately. They carry a wide variety of curriculum and good wholesome books at competitive prices. Check them out and don't hesitate to contact them with any questions.

Lifetime Books & Gifts - Through its attendance at home-school conferences around the country, this company has become quite popular. They offer many educational resources and curriculum.

Rainbow Resource Center - Popular homeschool titles and helpful homeschooling links may be found at this website. Most products feature a detailed description.

R.O.C.K. Solid - This company is most known for their low prices. They have a wide variety of popular titles. We've ordered from them in the past and were quite satisfied with the price, product, customer service, and delivery time.

Shekinah Curriculum Cellar - They offer an extensive selection of Christian and secular curriculum and resources. Christian materials are indicated with a cross icon.

Timberdoodle Company - Many home-schooling families have enjoyed reading about the folks who run the Timberdoodle Company for years. They offer a wide variety of popular titles as well as many unique and interesting items.

HomeSchooling Laws/Legal

Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) - No one anticipates legal problems pertaining to their homeschooling, but it happens. HSLDA provides free legal service to its members, if necessary. If it is not necessary, one should consider it a blessing and know that their membership fees were not wasted. By contributing to HSLDA, members are protecting the rights of other members across the nation. Also on this site is a listing of each state's laws and homeschooling organizations.

The Rutherford Institute - This legal organization helps those whose civil liberties are being violated. The Rutherford Institute, a Christian organization, is well-known for its efforts in protecting religious freedom.

Testing at Home

Bayside School Services - Administer the CAT to your child at home. They offer the CAT test at competitive rates. Several Crossroads' families have stated they are pleased with this company.

Bob Jones University - They offer a variety of tests including the ITBS and Stanford. Some tests have greater restrictions on the administrator than others.

Diagnostic Prescriptive Services - Assessment testing written specifically for home-educated children. The Diagnostic Prescriptive Assessment thoroughly evaluates the child for mastery of his or her grade level skills in all required subjects instead of comparing them to public school students, who are "taught the test". Their testing service also includes The Concise Learning Styles Assessment, which will determine the child's learning style and explain how best to teach them. In addition, they are able to provide one-on-one testing for those interested. Visit their website for additional information on these tests and more.

Piedmont Education Services - PES offers the Woodcock-Johnson and ITBS tests.

Seton - They offer the CAT-E Survey Test, which may be administered at home. Currently, Seton is the least expensive option, and they are quick to deliver tests and score answer sheets.

TAAS - The 2002 edition of the TAAS (the standardized test used in Texas). This test is free and available for download. This is excellent for either preparing your child for the TAAS, other standardized tests, or to simply use as a tool for home evaluation. Since it is not intended for any "commercial" use, this test does not fulfill our testing option.

Thurber's Educational Assessments - Thurber's offers the CAT/5 test, which may be administered to children at home. This company has been serving homeschoolers since 1993.

Testing for College Entrance

College Board - This is the home of the SAT college-entrance exam and PSAT. Students may register for this exam online. Crossroads' test code number is: 100326.

ACT - Registration may be completed online. Information is stored to make future registrations faster.

Other Helpful and Interesting Links
Many links are suggested by members. CCS does not necessarily support the companies below listed.

ABC Teach - This website is aimed mainly at teachers (which you are) and is not homeschool-related; however, we believe there is a lot of useful information and resources available.

Alta Vista Translator - Simply put a word or phrase in the box and choose the preferred language, and it will translate the phrase to the preferred language.

Charlotte Mason Links - The Charlotte Mason approach to homeschooling is popular to those who prefer a more relaxed method. It focuses on using quality books as the main curriculum.

Classical Christian Links - Growing in popularity due to the release of The Well Trained Mind Classical Education is becoming a favorite approach to homeschooling.

Crosswalk.Com - Christian and homeschooling information and message boards are available at this site.

Daily Bible Reading - This site breaks verses down to a daily reading schedule. Visitors will also have the ability to read the verses online.

DonnaYoung.org - If one needs homeschool forms, household planners, lab sheets, timeline templates, menu planners, checklists, etc. this is the site. The forms are free and can be printed from the site.

Easy Fun School - Visitors will find a wide variety of free lesson plans, articles, recipes, and teaching ideas for all ages.

English Nanny and Governess School - Young ladies who love caring for others' children may enjoy a career as an English Nanny or Governess.

Family Tools - Organize chores, reward behavior, build character, and teach responsibilities with the PEGS system. A fun, interesting, and easy-to-use system. It's a little pricey, but the materials are non-consumable and can be used for years - a better value than less expensive, paper organizers.

Florida Parent Educators Association - Florida's homeschool support group.

Florida Virtual School - High school courses online for Florida residents. FLVS is not a school and does not keep records on the student, issue credits, or award a diploma. Courses completed at FLVS are awarded credit by the student's high school - similar to dual-enrollment.

Fractions and Decimals - Several worksheets, which focus on decimals and fractions, are available for printing.

HomeSchool World - This is the home of Practical Homeschooling magazine and Mary Pride.

The Library of Congress - A wealth of information is available including a site for kids and families. This would be a great site to visit for an "online field trip".

National Geographic Kids - Children learn Science while having fun. Coloring book pages, quizzes, and fun games are available for children.

Net Bible Institute - This is an online Bible study for all ages.

Notebooking.Org - This is a wonderful site which contains an abundance of information on notebooking, timelines, booklists, charts, organization, etc. There is even a journal/timeline generator. This site should prove to be helpful to a wide range of homeschoolers.

ScreenIt - Get the "dirt" on current movies showing at theatres, video, or DVD. Find out if the movie in question is fine for your little ones to watch.

Seussville University - Children can have fun while learning basic Reading, Math, Science, and Reasoning Skill with their favorite Seuss characters.

Titus2.Com - Best known for being the home to Manager's Of Their Homes (MOTH) this site offers a wide variety of information on scheduling. Message boards are also available.

Teens and College - Cafi Cohen's site addresses various aspects of homeschooling teens.

VegSource Message Boards - This is not a Christian site; however, they do offer a message board for those homeschooling for religious reasons. Hundreds of messages are posted daily by those selling and/or buying used homeschooling curriculum.

The White House - This is a wonderful site in which to learn more about the White House and those who served there. Current information on our country is also available. And they offer a section just for kids.

Word Central - Merriam-Webster sponsors this site, which offers a student dictionary and fun activities for children.

Random Artwork

2007-05-02T19:45:00.000-04:00

Brooke's paintings: Her dad and Bella.

The Baseball Game

2007-04-29T14:05:00.000-04:00

Brooke had fun at the baseball game last night. Here are some pics:

Butterfly Festival

2007-04-28T21:47:00.000-04:00

Here are some pics from the Butterfly Festival we attended today. We only stayed for a little over an hour but that hour was filled with crafts and learning experiemces.

Trumpet Flower

2007-04-26T20:42:00.000-04:00

Brooke has been caring for this little beauty for a while and finally today - a beautiful bloom.

Craft Time

2007-04-23T02:39:00.000-04:00

Chuckee Cheese Fun

2007-04-17T20:37:00.000-04:00

Bugs, Day 3

2007-03-07T14:01:00.000-05:00

Brooke is feeling a little bit better today so I decided she should tackle some school work. Unfortunately now it is me who isn't feeling all that well, bugs... I caught 'em. It is already 2pm and we've only been able to complete math, spelling, some reading and she's been workin on some crafts while we take a break.

For the last two days we only got some reading in and I don't really want to get too far behind.

Pressing on...

No School Today...

2007-03-05T13:58:00.000-05:00

Brooke is sick so other than some reading, we won't be doing any school work today or probably tomorrow. Hopefully we will be able to resume on Wednesday...

Homeschool Freebies

2007-03-04T19:44:00.000-05:00

Homeschool Freebies just for you...

Superkids Math Work Sheet Creator - This is a site that allows a person to create their own math sheets.

Busy Teachers Cafe is a resource for k-6.

Then there is Silly books. This is a "cute educational website for the younger ones". It "has more than 60 animated read aloud story books, story songs, fine art games, puzzles and more that help kids learn to read".

First Soccer Game!

2007-03-04T00:11:00.000-05:00

Look For Lucky #7!

Homeschool Discounts

2007-03-03T22:25:00.001-05:00

Joann's Craft Store
Offers a 10% discount card for educational purchases. Just show your
FPEA, HERI or HSLDA card)

Barnes & Noble
Offers an Educational discount card, must have proof of homeschool
status (HERI/FPEA card, etc.) & apply

Borders
Offers an Educational discount card, must have proof of homeschool
status (HERI/FPEA card, etc.) & apply

Staples
Has a teacher/educational card that counts points.

Office Depot
When you checkout ask them to donate to HERI (Home Education Resource
& Information) as your school.

Winter Festival Of Giants - Field Trip

2007-02-24T15:07:00.000-05:00

We took a field trip to our local R/C Flying Field Today. They were having a "Winter Festival Of Giants" this was a 3 day long event and people from all over the country came out to participate. Here are some pics. Brooke had a wonderful time and what better setting for tons of Q&A. These airplanes may be small rc planes but they fly just like the big ones...

Police Mounted & K-9 Unit Field Trip

2007-02-22T14:44:00.000-05:00

We went to the Police Mounted and K-9 Unit for our field trip today. When we arrived the officers were getting their horses ready for our visit. It was early and cold but that didn't stop the girls from looking on...

Once everyone was there we were led to the classroom for some very interesting information on the K-9 unit. He explained what they do and how they do it and then the children were able to ask questions.

Then it was time for a demonstration! Everyone enjoyed this, the Officer led his dog in a hunt for drugs he had hidden .

After the K-9 demonstration we went back into the classroom to learn about the Police Mounted Units. Then we were off to the stables to meet all of the horses and to view another demonstration.

This is Gideon a very beautiful yet grouchy old fella.

Gideon and Chocolate were the two horses used for demonstration.

This is Sampson, Brooke's favorite. He came from the Amish Community and was a beautiful and LARGE horse!

Inside the stable meeting all of the horses.

This is Gunslinger he is a young clydesdale.

Update.

2007-02-15T23:44:00.000-05:00

We finally made it to the homeschool group today, we had a wonderful time meeting everyone and as we were leaving Brooke asked if we could go back every week. So, it's a go!

My dh is returning to work tomorrow after one month off so we are going to take the next couple of days to get back on our schedule. It's certainly not going to be easy and will probably require some tweaking here and there but I fully intend on having us back on schedule by Monday.

Here is our daily schedule with some more tweaks :)

(My schedule is in green and Brooke's schedule is in pink)

6:30am
Get Up, Morning Routine, Make Coffee, Quiet Me Time
Sleeping

7:30am
Help dh get off to work, Start a load of laundry & start *spritzing
Sleeping

8:00am
Make & Eat Breakfast, Tend To Brooke
Time To Get Up
Eat Breakfast
Brush Teeth
Brush Hair
Get Dressed
Make Bed

9:00am
Homeschool
Homeschool

10:30am
Laundry & Think about Dinner then resume homeschool (on Thursdays, put away homeschool items and get ready to go to homeschool group at 11:00am)
Break /Snack time then resume homeschool (on Thursdays, put away homeschool items and get ready to go to homeschool group at 11:00am)

11:00am
Thursdays Only - Homeschool Group
Thursdays Only - Homeschool Group

11:45
Put away homeschool items
Put away homeschool items

12:00pm
Make & Eat Lunch, Clean Up and Laundry
Set Lunch Table, Eat Lunch, Table Chores

1:00pm
Activity Time
Activity Time
Monday: Outside Play Time
Tuesday: Library Day
Wednesday: Park Time
Thursday: Homeschool Group (return from homeschool group at 1pm and begin craft time until 2:30)
Friday: Misc./Craft Time (Grocery Shopping is usually done on this day)

2:30pm
Put away items from Activity Time/Groceries & Laundry again :)
Put away Activity Time then Snack Time

3:00pm
Zone Cleaning/De-Cluttering Detail
Tidy Up Time

4:30pm
Computer Time
Computer/Free Play Time

5:30pm
Start Dinner
Read Alone Time or Help Mom in Kitchen

6:15
Continue Dinner
Set Dinner Table

6:30pm
Dinner Time
Dinner Time

7:00pm
Clean Kitchen then family time
Clear Dinner Table, Table Chores then family time

8:30pm
Tend to Brooke
Bath Time
Brush Teeth (night routine)

9:00pm
Read to Brooke, 1 book her choice, 1 book my choice
Read to

10:00pm
Tidy Up House, Set Coffee Maker for the morning, throw a load of laundry in for morning
Bed

10:30pm
Quiet/Reading/Computer Time
Bed

11:00 or so
Bed Time
Bed

*Spritzing: Take 15 minutes to spritz your kitchen and bathrooms with your favorite cleaner. Check to see that you have enough supplies for each area and fresh towels. Don't forget to empty the trash cans! Follow with a quick run of the vacuum.

Homeschool Group.

2007-02-15T14:48:00.000-05:00

Well, we finally made it! Yeah! We had a great time and plan on going from now on. Brooke made allot of friends and when it was time to go, she was begging to come back next week :)

I didn't get many pics but here are a few.

Home Economics.

2007-02-15T02:53:00.000-05:00

We are planning on attending our first homeschool group meeting tomorrow. They are having a Valentines Day Party and since everyone who attends brings a dish, Brooke and I decided that Valentine Cupcakes were in order.

We were out of gas so we had to utilize our convection oven - hence the funky looking cupcakes...

Brooke waiting impatiently...

Brooke decorated and iced them so nicely. And ohhh were they sooo good.

Update...

2007-02-12T23:45:00.000-05:00

I haven't updated in quite a while. We get so busy and keeping this journal up to date seems to get overlooked.

We have been off schedule for about a month now. My dh resigned from his job and has been taking some time off to relax. He will be starting a new job with a new company soon so our normal schedule can resume. I have enjoyed having him home but our homeschool schedule has suffered.

For some time now I have been wanting to join a local homeschool school group but something always came up on the weeks I intended on attending one of their meetings. We are planning on attending this week again and hopefully we won't have anything come up to stop us from going. Brooke is really excited to make some new friends! :) Therefore I am determined on making it happen for her.

Well, that's all for now. I want to start updating on a regular daily basis, we'll see what happens...

Library Day

2006-11-09T22:04:00.000-05:00

Today we went to the library and checked out several books, books on tape as well as videos. Brooke had a wonderful time. I am thinking we will be making it a weekly thing just not sure what day to make "library day? yet.

With our regular studies we've also been working heavily on money this week. She will be starting a lapbook at the beginning of the week, I will be sure to post pics.

NEFAS - Star Gazing

2006-09-30T23:53:00.000-04:00

Brooke, my Mom and I all went to a really cool public observation tonight hosted by the North East Florida Astronomical Society (NEFAS)

(above photo taken by a NEFAS Member)

What Happens at a Public Observing Session? (taken from the NEFAS website)

At our public observing sessions, NEFAS members setup telescopes, binoculars and low-light video equipment for visitors to observe with. Objects in the sky change throughout the year, but typically you can expect to see:

Planets
The Moon
Star Clusters
Galaxies
Constellations
Various Deep Sky Objects
Satellites
NEFAS members typically give "sky tours" utilizing green laser pointers to indicate objects in the sky. This is a great way to become familiar with the night sky for all ages.

(The telescope in the above photo is behind Brooke)
The telescopes were unbelieveable! I thought we had a nice one until I saw the ones they had tonight, wow! Brooke was able to view the moon, stars, a galaxy, a dying star and an alpha star called Andromeda. She was so excited and happy, I loved seeing her so interested. All of the members of NEFAS that we came in contact with were soooo nice and informative.

(above photo taken by a NEFAS member)

The observation was held at the beach so we also took a nice stroll down the beach too...

End Result: One Happy Little Girl.

Art

2006-07-13T07:15:00.000-04:00

Brooke has been very busy painting lately. Here are some samples.

A very cool Volcano if I must say so myself.

Pirates Of the Caribbean

Daddy's Airplane Melanie (Her Cousin)
Our new house, or so she thinks anyway.

Midnight's Sky (planets)

DaddyA self portrait...Brooke.

Summer Fun Day

Color Explosion ~ An Experiment

2006-06-29T17:39:00.000-04:00

Here are some photos from an experiment Brooke did yesterday concerning colors:

Color Explosion

Materials Used:

Cake Pan
Milk to cover bottom of cake pan
Food Coloring
Dish Detergent

First she put milk in the cake pan then put a couple drops of each food color in seperate areas around the edge of the pan. Then she added about 4 or 5 drops of liquid dish detergent to the center of the pan!
Then we sat back and watched the color explosion happen.

She had alot of fun pointing out color pictures...kinda like cloud pictures!

She said this look like Jack from the Nightmare before Christmas... Do you see him?

The last picture was taken about 35-45 minutes after she first started! This was a wonderful rainy day kind of experiment that she really enjoyed!

Ice Man...

2006-04-03T01:31:00.000-04:00

Today, Brooke learned about Ice Men with the Ice Man Cryogenic Lab. She even got to do an autopsy on her own little ice man and saber tooth tiger:

Hola!

2006-04-02T03:54:00.000-04:00

Brooke y yo todavía estamos aprendiendo español, Espero que esté diciendo esto correctamente. Estamos trabajando en números, colores y palabras básicas hoy.

Translation:Brooke and I are still learning spanish, I hope I am saying this correctly. We are working on numbers, colors and basic words today.

She will be working on an Ancient Egypt Lapbook within the next few days, I will be sure to post some pictures of her progress

Adios!

Did you know that Stanford University has special interests in homeschooled children???

2006-02-07T12:22:00.000-05:00

Neither did I, but reading this article in Stanford Magazine has put some things in perspective for me! Give it a look!

Sign Language

2006-01-26T00:30:00.000-05:00

Brooke has really shown an interest in learning sign language, so I have added this to her weekly curriculum. She is doing really really well and having alot of fun in the process!

She also worked on phonics, reading, writing, readiness and math today!

Great Links!

2006-01-24T12:32:00.000-05:00

Brooke worked on her baics today, phonics, reading, writing and math....

She also had some fun on the computer at Lite brite and Sea and Sky!

I found a great site to aide in making your own 3 part animal cards and more, ((here))

Okay well somehow I completely lost that link...but I have an even better idea! Here is a link to kidsites.com which is an awesome site full of great kids sites to aide in making all kinds of manipulatives!

Also, if you are in need of free lesson plans, inspiration or just some fun projects go here: Lessonplanspage.com
it is full and I mean full of really wonderful lessons and unit studies that I adore.

A Good Day.

2006-01-23T14:32:00.000-05:00

Today Brooke worked on Phonics/Reading/Writing, Math and Readiness Skills. She also visited Kididdles for some music fun!

She also did some more addition with her cuisenaire rods and dry-erase flash cards. Again she complained that they were too easy but I keep having her do them to improve writing her numbers:

It was a beautiful warm day about 77 Degrees so it was perfect for a little outside painting fun!

Surprise!

2006-01-22T23:56:00.000-05:00

This evening I was surprised when I opened my bathroom door, I was surprised because Brooke left a beautiful present in there just for me, Paris! She had constructed her own version complete with the Eiffel Tower...maybe this week we need to do a Paris Lapbook!

Dreaming of Castles

2006-01-22T20:32:00.000-05:00

Today Brooke informed me that she wants to make this:

I guess it couldn't hurt to try...We will start working on it tomorrow and it will be an ongoing project until completed. I will post our progress.

Busy Day.

2006-01-20T20:57:00.000-05:00

We started off the day with a little Yard Sale shopping very early. Brooke was given $2.00 to shop with and she managed to hang onto it until we visited one of our favorite consignment shops...Children's Orchard. It was great! They had tons of manipulatives at very reasonable prices so we bought quite a bit. We also had to do our grocery shopping. We made a list together and off we went, we studied prices and discussed our budget, she did great! We were able to squeeze in time to go to the playground for a bit. She made lots of friends and one in particular, Frances, who she has talked about all day. Hopefully she will see her again next time we go. When we got home she did a bit of painting.

Rapunzel

2006-01-19T20:39:00.000-05:00

Today, we worked on Phonics, Math, Science and Writing. She also made a book, I helped her with the title but the rest is all her:

Find It!

2006-01-18T20:02:00.000-05:00

Today, Brooke worked on Phonics/Reading/Writing, Math and Geography. She also visited Digger and the Gang and played some Math, English and Spelling Activities.
We also found this (below) at a local consignment store. She had alot of fun putting it together and talking about all of the items it featured.

A new manipulative...

2006-01-17T20:08:00.000-05:00

Today, we purchased some cuisenaire rods and when we got home, Brooke was excited to get going! So, I jotted down some addition problems for her and off she went... She loves the rods.

Math Time! Yeah!

2006-01-16T19:57:00.000-05:00

Brooke Loves Math...
Today she worked on addition with some new cards that I purchased:

When she was done she was quick to let me know that they were too easy...huh, I guess tomorrow we will work on something a bit harder.

Dental Care Lapbook

2006-01-13T13:09:00.000-05:00

Well, here is another one and it is a rather big one! She had tons of fun researching, learning and constructing it! She is already asking if she can make another one about the Titanic....

Links Added

2006-01-13T11:26:00.000-05:00

I have added some great links over to the right! If you are looking for Homeschool materials, lapbook/shutterbook information or printable pages and forms, take a look!

Tick...Tock...Tick...Tock...

2006-01-12T21:56:00.000-05:00

Today Brooke made a clock/telling time Lapbook. This was her first one and she had lot of fun making it! She did a really good job too!

Here are some pics:

She can read!!!! She can read!!!!

2006-01-10T15:06:00.000-05:00

Today is a very exciting day!!! I am very excited to report that Brooke is reading!!!

Small words of course but reading none the less! She is a wiz a blending her letters and has been working on blending her sounds to make words for a a month or so with some success but now... she is reading like a pro! I am so proud of her!

Today we are going to be working on math, phonics/reading/writing and geography. She has already completed some Reader Rabbit on PC and we will be doing some fun snowmen projects as well.

Living in Florida she doesn't get to experience an actual winter with snow so we are going to work on winter projects this whole week. I will post some pictures later!

Welcome!

2006-01-09T13:44:00.000-05:00

Welcome to Brooke's Homeschool Journal!

This is a work in progress as we are starting this journal late in the year and will need to compile all of her past work to post as well as present work.

This journal is a spinoff from my own personal journal Reality Check which I have decided to keep seperate from Brooke's Homeschool posts.

So, In short, We started this journal to keep track of Brooke's progress throughout Kindergarten and will try to post her progress daily.

Please check back soon!

Christmas Break!

2005-12-20T14:24:00.000-05:00

We are taking a break from academic homeschool until after the New Year...

See you then!

Fun in the sun...

2005-11-17T14:36:00.000-05:00

Today was a really beautiful day so I took Brooke outside to do her school work and she had a blast!

After we finished her schoolwork, we made some really cool craft gift bags to fill with cookies for Christmas gifts!

Educational Yard Sale Shopping!

2005-11-12T14:33:00.000-05:00

Brooke and I went Yard Sale shopping today, I gave her $2.00 and allowed her to purchase whatever she wanted. I made sure she understood that once she had spent her money, it was gone and then off we went. It was a great experience for her to purchase items from people and see how much money she would have left... She spent every penny!

Thanksgiving Centerpiece

2005-11-12T14:20:00.000-05:00

This was a laid back project day....in pajamas! Today Brooke made a Thanksgiving centerpiece for our table, it came out really good and she was really proud of it!

We used a Strofoam plate for the base then she glued leaves that she had collected from our yard, then we purchased a pumpkin which she placed in the middle atop the leaves.

Very cute!

Fun Projects!

2005-11-09T14:22:00.000-05:00

I found this site called Enchanted Learning, they have some great Thanksgiving crafts that are really fun. Brooke and I are doing the Thankful Leaf Wreath today. If you have time check it out...

I am not sure how I found them, I think it started with a link from The Sellers Family Homeschool and then another link and so on. So, thank you!

Homeschool

2005-11-09T14:20:00.000-05:00

Brooke and I didn't get to actual "academic" home school today because we were running errands. I justified missing it by telling myself we had to take both of our chihuahuas to the vet for checkups and shots. "Raising a Pet" happens to be on the Scope and Sequence for Kindergarten soooo... it counts as "school" in my book. Normally... there is a small part of me that freaks out when we miss a day no matter how good I can justify it. But things are changing!

Low and behold at 11pm tonight the child started begging "Home School Me, Momma!" Okay, I admit this didn't seem to weird to me as it probably does you because Brooke and I are night owls. We love to stay up late while everyone else is sleeping. Fortunately home school allows us to do this. So, we made it through our academics for the day! Yeah, we won't be behind but if we were I wouldn't really care because I am starting to see things in a new light... I find that Brooke and I enjoy a more hands on approach to learning more than we do the curriculum approach. Don't get me wrong, I will continue to use my Abeka curriculum but I have decided not to be so anal about keeping up and staying ahead of schedule. It's Kindergarten for goodness sakes and after all isn't one of the reasons that we all home school our children so we can benefit the child in the best possible way and the most loving way possible. I have one super intelligent little girl who learns all day whether through daily living or through curriculum and I am positive that she is learning a great deal more than she would be if she were in "regular" school.

Well, that is a load off. It is always a wonderful feeling to know that you are doing a good job and that is one thing I do know for sure.

Five Bucks.

2005-11-08T14:28:00.000-05:00

Brooke got a new fish to take care of... We will be adding this chore to her chore chart as a daily chore. We have discussed how important it is that she visit and feed him daily, she is really excited about her new responsibility!

His name is Five Bucks.

Soda Tabs Update

2005-10-28T14:56:00.000-04:00

As of today, Brooke has collected over 60 tabs!!!

Monster Mosh

2005-10-28T14:47:00.000-04:00

Today is a really exciting day around here! Liz and I are taking the kids to Monster Mosh at the Museum of Science and History tonight! The kids get to dress up in their halloween costumes and participate in games and activities to earn candy! It should be alot of fun, I will post pictures later!

Soda tabs

2005-10-23T14:53:00.000-04:00

Brooke and I have started a new project to benefit Children's Hospitals. We are collecting soda pop pull tabs, she has done a great job in not letting anyone throw away their can without pulling that tab off first!

We also made a cute little collection tin out of a coffee tin. We covered it in different magazine clippings and made a litlle hole in the top to drop the tabs in.

We will keep you up to date on our progress!