Sunshine Academy

New Journey

2010-08-24T13:23:00.000-07:00

It's been almost 2 years since I last posted on this blog. Last year (2009/2010 school year) we left Catholic Heritage Curriculum and elected to follow our school district's online curriculum (with extra stuff added in) Both boys did well, and ended the school year with averages in the high 90's.

This year (2010/2011) we made the decision to enroll the boys in the local public school. This decision was not made lightly, but we believed it was the best for our family at this point. Thanks to the recession, I returned to work on a part-time basis, and was able to increase my work to almost full-time status over the last 6 months. Child care for the older boys became an issue, and we decided that we wanted them to have the opportunities that would be available via enrolling. Another factor was the speech therapy my middle child was receiving from the school. His appointments meant that I had to block out 2 days in order to get him there, which decreased my available work time, which decreased our available funds.

I'll also admit that I enjoyed my return to work, and receive quite a bit of satisfaction from teaching others (I'm a technical trainer for adults.)

More went into the decision, but the final decision was that the boys would go to the local school this year.

It's been a bit of an adjustment, but they're doing fine. Academically, they're at or above grade level in every subject and socially they're finding their groove. They will begin chess club soon, and my oldest began orchestra. My middle child is receiving his speech therapy during the school day.

We loved our homeschooling years, and often I was too busy enjoying that time to update this blog. We explored quite a bit, learned a ton, and had the opportunity to spend plenty of time together as a family. None of that will stop, just the circumstances a bit.

I wish you luck in your schooling journey!! I know that some people still stumble across this blog and read it, so I won't delete it. I wanted to leave an update post though, for anyone wondering if we still homeschool.

Advent Lapbook

2008-11-24T08:30:00.001-08:00

3 years ago, I took a class on lapbooks and was very excited. I bought some books and materials . . . and then the stuff sat in my cabinet because my boys really weren't old enough to create lapbooks.

This morning, one of my friends on facebook linked to this lapbook -- Advent Lapbook -- and I knew that my boys were now old enough so I ordered it.

I've just taken a few minutes to go through the materials, and I'm very excited to print everything out and have the boys get started making their own lapbooks for Advent this year. It includes so much information about the season! Things like feast days and prayers and plenty of space for their own writing. She includes both colored pages and blank ones if the kids like to color their own (mine do!) There are 84 pages of information to create this lapbook -- so you know there is plenty to do over the 4 weeks of Advent!

I was trying to find a project for this season, and am so glad this popped up for me today! I will post pictures of their progress as we get started.

Don’t Forget to Play

2008-11-06T13:44:00.001-08:00

One of the advantages of homeschooling is the ability to visit the park when it's deserted. It makes it much easier for me to make a fool of myself on the playground equipment when I don't have an audience :) Over at Prevention, I wrote about the fun of playing with the kids at the park. Read it here: Don’t Forget to Play

Posted using ShareThis

Weeks 5 & 6 & 7 ?

2008-10-05T22:26:00.000-07:00

Yes, we're still moving along! The boys are zooming through their math books, which makes me wonder if we need to bump to the next grade level, or try different things that are mathematical. I think we'll stick to their current math books and see where we are at the end of the calendar year.

Nate is reading very well these days - he's still not sure of himself, but he's sounding out words that he sees on signs and other places, which is a good sign. He enjoys the reader we're using now, although he was completely astounded that they showed the kids without seat belts! (The book was written in the 50's) It's amazing to think that my kids have never known a time of not being strapped into the car.

Colin is doing well and not struggling with anything. He is a little sloppy when it comes to spelling tests, but I think that's more laziness than anything else.

The weather is cooling off finally around here, so we'll start heading to the botanical gardens, zoo and the parks much more often. We met a friend at the park last week, even though it was almost 100, just because we were so tired of staying inside.

Weeks 3 & 4

2008-09-15T12:08:00.000-07:00

All is still going well. The most exciting thing I can report is that reading has clicked for N! I am so thrilled about this, and so is he!

We were sitting in our reading spot, and he read through a book with little to no help from me. I looked at him and said 'Hey! Have you been practicing without me??" He laughed and said "no!" I said "I don't know . . . I think you've been practicing on your own."

He was tickled pink and got even more tickled when I shared the conversation with his dad and his aunt. Whatever has to click has truly clicked for him and he is on his way to becoming a completely independent reader.

I'm working on reading out loud with C. He is an excellent reader with great comprehension skills, but his out loud skills need some work. He's rushing through the words and skipping over words. I know he's trying to read as fast as he can in his head, and I'm sure he's reading all the words in his head, but I also believe that reading aloud well is a skill that is important. So, we're working on having him slow down and make sure he reads each word out loud.

Last week we had the opportunity to take a nice tour of our church during the day while it was mostly empty. We also did a couple art projects.

This week will be more of the same. Baseball season ends this Saturday and we'll be adding in a few more lessons now that we don't have those practices to fit in.

Week Two, Down!

2008-08-30T15:37:00.001-07:00

We just finished up our 2nd week and did very well. All expected work was completed. N needs to read a bit to me today, but other than that, everything has been checked off!

The checkoff list is working wonderfully! C wants to work ahead some days, and he can. N wants to know how much more before he's finished, and it's right there on paper for him. I'm happy with this system right now!

We missed art this week because our dvd player is without sound for some reason. Hopefully DH can figure out the problem this weekend.

Nothing out of the ordinary -- pretty much the same old thing. For science this week, we watched the Nature of Dogs which was very interesting and well-done. And, then we all worked together on training our new puppy. Science at work!

We also worked together to make a new recipe. It was sugar-free peanut butter/banana bars. I took pictures and was planning to post the recipe, but they were AWFUL.

Now I remember why I got away from updating this blog regularly. It's a bit boring. I still like the idea of having it, however, so I will continue to update weekly.

Week One Wrap-up

2008-08-25T11:17:00.000-07:00

This is my 3rd year maintaining this blog, and I confess that I'm not sure what direction it will take this year! I have a feeling that it will be sporadic once again, as life tends to intervene. I do like having it encapsulated here, however, so maybe I'll try for weekly updates.

Last week was our first full week of school. The boys both had great attitudes and we got every bit of work done that I had hoped for.

Daily, both boys completed math workbook pages. C worked ahead of the number of pages assigned, but that's fine. N did just as he was asked, but did so with perfect accuracy.

Each day, we worked on reading out loud. N is definitely a beginning reader who is easily frustrated, so I'm trying to work throughout the day in very small chunks. C is an excellent reader, but he tends to skip words when he reads out loud. I know he reads them to himself, but he reads faster than he speaks and leaves things out. We're working on having him read more slowly, and address each word.

On Tuesday and Thursday the boys worked on their spelling workbook and took a test on Friday. N was terrified of the test and terrified that I was making him write out the words instead of spelling them orally as we had done last year. He scored 100% on his test. C refused to look over the words before the test, insisting he knew how to spell them all. He missed 3 words. For each missed word, he wrote it out 3 times.

Both boys work on journals during the week. On Tuesdays, C wrote in his topic journal (the journal page gives them the beginning of a sentence and he runs with it.) The minimum I ask him to write is 7 sentences. N also has a topic journal, but it is just completing one sentence. On Thursdays, both boys draw a page in their nature journal and write an entry. So far this year, I'm still writing N's entry as he dictates it to me. On Fridays, C writes in a free journal. The 7 sentence minimum applies here as well. On Saturdays, the boys both write in their book journals. This got skipped this week because of baseball and a few other obligations.

C worked in his grammar workbook 2 days last week, while N worked in a phonics workbook. Both boys completed handwriting lessons each day.

Both boys had religion. I read N's chapter to him, and he answered the questions orally. C read his chapter out loud and he answered questions orally. C has religion studies 2/week as we are preparing for his First Communion in the spring. His second lesson was about touring a church.

On Tuesdays, we'll have Art and Science. The boys completed an art lesson that focused on drawing different kinds of lines and created a design-filled caterpillar. For Science, we're studying mammals and after some discussion, the boys watched one episode of the "Life of Mammals" from Netflix.

On Wednesdays, the boys attend their enrichment program, and then come home to play baseball, so we don't do any lessons that day.

On Thursdays, the extra lesson is Maps. We're starting to work in Map workbooks and will also begin CHC's Tour of the Continents. We haven't started that yet, but will in the next week or so. They did do a few pages in the map workbook.

On Fridays, we also do History. We're using the Story of the World for history. I have the book, but I also have the cd's. The boys listened to a number of chapters while drawing at the kitchen table.

On Saturdays, it's a day like the others, and also built to be catch-up if needed. Right now, the boys are playing baseball on Saturday mornings, so I'm trying to get all we need to do done by Friday. It worked this week!

Plans

2008-08-15T15:55:00.000-07:00

Nate struggles with staying on task, so I decided to create checklists for both boys this year. That way, they can both see what is left to be done each day and I hope it cuts down on procrastination and complaining! I created tables in Word and added checkboxes for each item. Once I'm sure the schedule will work as written, I'll laminate the pages so they can be used over and over again.

My DH has Sundays and Mondays off. The boys attend an all-day enrichment program on Wednesdays, so we school on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

C's schedule looks like this:

Tuesday: Math, Handwriting, Spelling, Grammar, Topic Journal, Daily sheets (this can be coloring sheets, extra writing practice, puzzles, and will go along with each month's theme.), Art, Science and Reading.

Thursday: Math, Handrwriting, Spelling, Nature Journal, Reading Comprehension, Daily sheets, Religion, Maps, Reading

Friday: Math, Handwriting, Spelling Test, Grammar, Free Journal, Daily Sheets, Religion, History, Reading

Saturday: Math, Handwriting, Book Journal, Reading Comprehension, Daily Sheets, Reading

N's schedule is very similar, but with fewer items.

I've also created new chore schedules and even a daily schedule. Our daily schedule has us rising around 7:30, taking care of personal things, making beds, daily chores and eating breakfast by 8:30. Exercise is from 8:30 - 9:30 (this could be walking, Wii Fit, exercise dvd, jumping rope, etc.) Seat work begins at 9:30, with a break around 10:45. Lunch at noon. More mom-intensive and one-on-one topics from 1 - 2:30 while L naps. Quiet time until 3PM. Free time until 4:30 when bedrooms and living room are picked up. Dinner between 5:30 and 6:30. In bed by 9PM.

That schedule will be fluid, but it gives us a nice framework to work within. If something comes up and times are shifted, that's okay! The important thing is that each day's work is completed so we stay on track.

Books on their way!

2008-08-04T18:23:00.001-07:00

I placed my CHC order on Friday and our books should arrive Thursday! We'll be set for the year, other than the planning / schedule that I want to get written out before we start officially.

C will be getting lots of new books, and N will only get a few new ones because he started a couple 1st grade books last spring. From CHC, I ordered handwriting books for both boys, math book for C, . . . and I've drawn a complete blank as to what else I ordered? Oh, well, I doublechecked enough times to know I've got what we need.

I'll work on our schedule this week and post it if anyone is interested.

new purchases

2008-07-28T16:05:00.000-07:00

I had a rare afternoon yesterday when I was able to get out by myself. I headed over to a local Lakeshore Learning store to buy a few journals for our school year. I especially like their "Draw and Write" journals which have a blank area for a picture, then lined areas for writing. I picked up 2 of those, 2 writing prompt journals (simpler one for N,) 2 poetry journals and 2 reading log journals. I also picked up lots of paper! Zaner-Blose writing paper, 12x18 drawing paper and 8x12 colored construction paper. I spent just under $50, but we should be good for writing and drawing for the entire year!

On the way home, I stopped at Barnes & Noble for a reading comprehension book for C. He had one last year at a 3rd grade level that he really enjoyed working in, so I picked up the 4th grade level. I also picked up a phonics workbook for N. At under $4 each, they're a pretty good value.

I picked up the last 3-pack of unlined moleskine notebooks there, too! I love these for nature journals. The ones we used for the last 2 years were full and it was time to replace them. These notebooks are so light and easy to carry -- plus they are a great size for the boys to record the nature around them. We use the ones that are 5x8 with a cardboard cover.

I need to place my CHC order and then we're ready for the year!

planning for a new year

2008-07-25T15:41:00.000-07:00

I've started planning and reviewing for the new year! The boys will start their enrichment program in mid-August, and we'll start our studies at the same time. I know the boys are ready as they both pulled out workbooks this week on their own and started doing some work. N is asking to learn time and is interested and eager.

I went through the homeschooling cabinet in the hallway and discovered many things I had completely forgotten about! An entire pack of 12x15 paper! An entire BOX of coloring books of famous artists and desert scenes and more! 2 mini greenhouses! Pretend snow! Our good binoculars!

It was quite the revelation, and I was reminded how last year wasn't necessarily very filled with extra activities. Oh, well, there's always this year!

There are about $100 worth of textbooks I need to purchase before we start, but I'm trying to see if I can narrow that down and make another order in a few months. I have to make a final decision about math (do I stick with MCP or try the Seton math books this year?)

Yesterday I began tackling the enormous task of sorting through our children's books. I emptied 3 bookshelves and set aside one box for donations. I organized and sorted and made categories for the remaining books -- and then realized that I still had about 150 books scattered throughout the house that I somehow need to fit onto the shelves. I think we have plenty of reading material for all 3 kids, but I still wonder if I should buy a few readers for N?

I'm getting excited and so are the boys. I'm creating a routine that we can stick with and I'm willing to be flexible when needed. It's going to be a fun year . . . especially as I realize that it may be our last year homeschooling. While I would love to continue, I may need to find outside employment that won't work well with homeschooling. I intend to enjoy this year to its fullest!

multiplication clock

2008-06-07T14:03:00.000-07:00

We haven't done multiplication yet, but I *love* this idea! I will be tutoring a couple young girls heading into 4th grade this fall and I think I'll try this idea out on them!

I can't wait to check out more of her ideas!

Reading Programs

2008-05-30T11:05:00.001-07:00

We live on the border of 2 counties, and are able to visit both counties' libraries. Each offers a reading program with different sponsors, so the boys are very excited about earning some prizes this summer. One library offers tickets to a Diamondbacks game, and my boys can't wait!

They are also working on the reading program offered through Barnes and Noble. If the boys read 8 books and write a short journal entry (one sentence, really), they can choose a free book.

For the fall, I just registered for the Pizza Hut program. They have changed their program to be open to individual homeschoolers and you can register here.

And, finally in the fall, we'll be raising funds for Heifer International through their Read to Feed program. I recently received the leader packet and was impressed by all the information they sent. They have a wonderful curriculum to go along with the program, and sent bookmarks and stickers as well to reward the kids. N is already looking forward to reading enough to raise the funds to provide a family with a beehive.

We do an awful lot of reading in our home already, so these little bonuses are great fun for the kids.

what are we reading this summer?

2008-05-24T12:17:00.000-07:00

C reads quite a bit independently, but DH & I still read out loud at bedtime to both boys.

Right now, I'm reading The Return of the Indian by Lynn Reid Banks and DH is reading Barnstormers.

In the wings, I've got a copy of Rudyard Kipling's Just So Stories, the first Redwall book, and Nim's Island. My mom just brought us a full set of the Chronicles of Narnia, so we'll read those this summer as well. I'm excited to read them and then watch the movies (I like reading the books to the boys first and then watching any movie that has been made from a book.)

C is on the 22nd book of the Secrets of Droon series and I'm thinking I might start him on Boxcar Children next. N chose about a dozen books about vikings from the library that he wants me to read to him.

We'll participate in the reading program at the library this summer -- mainly so we can get free kids' baseball tickets! The boys look forward to the game every summer and I'm so glad the library & the Diamondbacks offer that as an incentive. We're also considering doing a fundraiser for Heifer International through their Feed To Read program. I got their free curriculum last week and was very impressed!

summer plans

2008-04-29T09:27:00.001-07:00

My dad is driving out from WI next week, and he will be here on & off until the beginning of July. My mom is coming out twice during that time as well -- she & my dad are leaving from here for a trip to Hawaii in early May and then she'll come back again mid-June when my brother & his wife come for a visit.

In late June, the boys will attend our parish's week-long Vacation Bible School. I haven't checked, but the last 2 years they have used a fully Catholic curriculum, and I hope they have decided to stick with that again this year.

I just signed the boys up for 2 classes in July. One is a cooking class that meets once a week for 4 weeks. The other is a cartooning class that meets 4 days in one week. They are excited about both and especially excited about the cartooning class. They have been creating comic books for a few months now and can't wait to learn some new techniques.

The boys are hankering to attend Zoo Camp again this year, but I haven't enrolled them yet. The cost hasn't increased in the last few years, but $306 is a big chunk from our budget at this time. I'm holding off for a little bit and hoping (praying) some money comes available so they can attend again this year. It's a week-long camp that they both enjoy. If they go this summer, it'll be one of the early weeks in June.

Life Happens

2008-04-18T16:43:00.000-07:00

I went through the boys' workbooks and figured out how much they had to do in each to finish them by mid-May.

We got word 3 weeks ago that my MIL was terribly ill. We scrambled, made a trip to NC so she could meet her grandkids for the first time, returned. She died the day after we returned and my husband flew back to NC.

While we haven't completely given up schooling, we've missed a few days and my earlier plan is shot.

And I FINALLY realized -- so what?? Life happens. We work around it. There is absolutely NO reason that I needed to finish this academic year by a certain date. There is really no reason that we have to finish those workbooks at all this academic year.

Both boys can read. Perform mathematical calculations. Write. Draw. Learn new things wherever we are and whatever we're doing. They'll be fine.

I'm not saying that I should completely give up, or that I shouldn't make plans. But I can't be rigid either. While sitting in the car while traveling last week, suddenly C says "So, when I'm borrowing while doing math, I can only borrow tens, right?" And I looked at my husband and said "He's just sitting back there thinking about math. How awesome is that??"

We're still doing plenty of read alouds (currently reading Hardy Boys #1 and Wizard of Oz). Colin reads at least one book a day on his own (currently loving Geronomino Stilton). Nate is trying to figure out how to dig a trench in the backyard and is completely enthralled in the construction work going on next door. We had an impromptu spelling bee in the car today while dropping off our van for repairs. Both boys independently write and/or draw in their journals. They became Junior Rangers at Carl Sandburg's home in Hendersonville, NC.

Every day is a learning experience for my kids. Workbooks may reinforce the things they learn, but they aren't the main focus. They are smart. They are polite. They are right where they need to be.

I admit, though, that I won't be able to let the workbooks fall by the wayside. I have just adjusted and realized we'll be working into June. And that's OKAY!

Spring Plans

2008-03-29T12:55:00.000-07:00

N started his 1st grade math book and 1st grade spelling book and is doing great. He surprised me a little with the spelling, but I'm glad I decided to stretch him a little. It turns out that it really wasn't a stretch after all! He is reading better each day and will be devouring books like his brother in no time.

C is progressing well and after another look at his math book, I think we will finish it by the end of May after all. He's moving through the grammar book with little trouble, struggled a bit with the last spelling lesson (there were finally some new words that he didn't bother to read through), and reading everything in sight. He devours Geronimo Stilton, Captain Underpants and Animal Ark books in mere hours. I'm so glad we have a good library system to use!

Our plans for the spring are to keep on doing what we've been doing. We let our art program languish all year, and I've been thinking about picking it up during the summer months.

moving on up

2008-02-25T17:26:00.000-08:00

N recently completed his Kindergarten math workbook. I ordered the 1st grade book for him this week, as well as the 1st grade speller. He is more than ready for both!

I looked at last year's calendar and realized that C also finished his K math workbook around this same time.

C won't finish the 1st grade math book before the end of May, I don't think. There's a chance, I suppose -- but it doesn't look that way. We recently added a reading comprehension workbook to his studies and that is a 3rd grade book. His spelling book is 2nd grade, as well as his grammar book.

Next year, we'll have sacrament preparation for C, which will add to our workload. We'll also do more focused science and social study work. For these reasons, I don't think he'll jump ahead as much as he did this year in his studies.

We worked until about a week before L's birth last spring (late April), and I plan to work through May this year. We're taking next week as our spring break, since it works perfectly into some family things. We won't do any dedicated schooling in June or July and then start up again mid-August. The boys will attend zoo camp this summer, and hopefully camp at the natural history museum. I'm not sure if we'll be able to afford both this year.

no school today

2008-02-22T12:42:00.001-08:00

We've been battling influenza, asthma attacks, RSV, ear infections and exhaustion the last couple weeks. Through it all, we've still done schooling -- reading, workbooks, practice, etc.

Today, N asked if we could skip schooling. I looked at him and said "Absolutely!"

Right now, the boys are creating comic books. Lots of drawing, spelling, writing and creating going on in the bedroom.

Earlier, they re-enacted American Gladiators in our backyard. Strategy, creativity and exercise.

C read out loud to his baby sister while she was struggling through a breathing treatment. Compassion, reading, diction.

Both boys helped me with laundry and cleaning the kitchen while L took a brief nap. Life skills

N is keeping track of what time different medicines are taken on our refrigerator whiteboard, and calculating when the next dose can be taken. Writing, time telling, math calculations

C started a new chapter book while he was having a breathing treatment. Reading

Both boys helped prepare lunch today. Life skills, counting

We may not have done anything that "looked" like schooling to the general public, but lots of learning is going on in our home! Even N doesn't realize how much he's learning - he just knows that he doesn't have to "do workbooks" today!

Pick a Number!

2008-01-28T15:43:00.000-08:00

We've been working on a poetry unit and have had a lot of fun reading tons of different poems. Today, I picked up a large anthology of poems and said "Pick a Number!" I flipped to that page and read a poem. I went back and forth between the boys for a good 45 minutes reading different poems. The focus of this unit has been exposure, and I think this was a great, interactive way to expose them to poetry.

We also created crayon disks today by stripping the paper off a bunch of crayons, dropping them in muffin tins, and melting them in the oven. The boys were fascinated with how they melted together and had fun drawing with them once they cooled. The toughest part was stripping the paper off the crayons -- I swear they must glue it on these days!

The boys also worked in their workbooks and listened to me read out loud (in addition to the poems.)

Hmmm, Week What?

2007-12-13T23:56:00.001-08:00

Thankfully, nobody is using my blog to keep track of me and our efforts! While the blog might make it appear that we have fallen off the face of the earth, we are still learning!

There have been many math worksheets, writing practice, reading practice, religious lessons, field trips and recesses at our home in the last six weeks.

The baby is also learning and developing like crazy; and I just haven't felt motivated to update this blog.

Lessons have been a bit of a struggle this week, and I'm trying to decide if we should start Christmas break early and get back to the grindstone in January. I've already decided that we're taking tomorrow off so we can decorate our tree and do some grocery shopping!

I admit that I've struggled with finding the time to plan lessons and have been doing much by the seat of my pants these days. Even so, Nate is starting to read and Colin is reading at a 3rd grade level at least. Colin is subtracting numbers up through 20 and Nate is breezing through his math worksheets of adding small numbers. Colin completed his 1st grade spelling workbook and will start the 2nd grade workbook in January. Both boys have finally memorized our home phone number, and we have started on DH's and my cell numbers. They are both able to tell time and count money. We continue to read plenty -- DH is currently reading "Hank the Cowdog" books at night, and I'm reading "Indian in the Cupboard" to them, as well as our large variety of Christmas/winter/Advent books.

Overall, I guess we're doing alright. I would like to add in more science & social studies next year. I do think that getting our office cleaned out will make a difference in my planning abilities! That's a goal I want to complete before the end of this year.

Thursday, Week 11

2007-11-01T19:39:00.000-07:00

We took Saturday off last week to get ready for our annual Halloween party Saturday afternoon. It was a very fun party, and all had a great time!

Thursday and Friday we did our usual work - nothing new - just more of the same.

Monday the boys attended homeschool PE in the morning, and then started a 6 week session of golf lessons in the afternoon. They had a blast and can't wait until next Monday to do it again!

Tuesday we did schooling with lots of Halloween worksheets found at edhelper.com. We covered math, reading, writing and coloring sheets with a Halloween focus.

Wednesday the boys had their enrichment program.

Today we started the day at mass celebrating All Saints Day. DH didn't have any calls until late, so we were able to go to mass as a family, enjoy lunch together and run a few errands. In the late afternoon, the boys did worksheets in their math workbooks. N also did a few worksheets where he had to determine the starting letter of words. C read an entire Magic Treehouse book this afternoon.

In honor of All Saints Day, I read a few of our saints books by Tomie DePaolo, and also from the Little Book of Saints (1).

My parents are on their way from Wisconsin, so I'm expecting next week to be a very light week. I'm considering posting just once a week on this blog -- mainly with new things we're doing, field trips, and new chapters, skills, etc. are introduced and/or mastered. We'll see how things go.

Tuesday, Week 10

2007-10-23T20:03:00.000-07:00

More of the same around here. The boys eagerly approach their lessons each day, and we are continuing to do what works for us.

The last few days they completed math pages, copywork, religion, spelling pages and grammar. C continues to read independently, and N completed the first set of BOB books. We're working on a unit study of the human body.

I think we're going to start the "Little Stories for Little Folks" with Nate. When we finish the body unit, we're moving into a nutrition unit. (or possibly dinosaurs. or desert. Not sure yet!)

They are still enjoying homeschool PE and are playing soccer as part of that.

I'm pleased to say we haven't butted heads or had any meltdowns in quite a while. I incorporate as much outdoor play as possible and I think it helps. N learned to ride a 2 wheeler without training wheels last week.

I'm pretty tied down with L, as she wants to be held all the time. She rarely naps, but sleeps good chunks at night. When she does nap, it's usually while I'm holding her and she wakes if I shift her. It makes blogging difficult, (and cleaning and cooking and peeing . . . ) but I know she'll continue to grow and we'll have all new challenges before I know it. I do like keeping track of our days in this blog, but I'm not going to stress that I wasn't able to blog the last few days specifically.

Thursday, Week 9

2007-10-18T23:30:00.000-07:00

C did one page of math today. It was a long review page of addition and subtraction facts. He read a chapter from his religion text out loud (and got pretty upset about the story of Adam and Eve.) He completed 2 spelling workbook pages.

N did 2 pages of math. He wrote copy work pages for the letters "T" and "U." He read the 11th BOB book.

Both boys made cards for their godparents' new baby. C wrote a note inside of his and did very well, except for a few backward "b"'s.

Tuesday, Week 9

2007-10-17T10:07:00.000-07:00

Both boys did entries in their nature journals. They both chose to draw the rosemary plant in front of our home. I wrote N's entry and prodded C to write his own. After a bit of grousing, he did and even figured out how to spell "rosemary" on his own.

I asked C to complete 2 math pages today -- and he ended up doing 6! He saw that he was close to the end of a chapter, and decided to finish it up. He had no problems with the work, so I guess he was ready.

N completed 2 math pages. One he struggled with last week, and we put it aside and did some practicing of counting in the teens during the next few days. When he attempted the pages today, he had no problem and zoomed through them. He also did copywork for the letters R & S.

C did more independent reading. He asked if we could go to the library to get #10 of the Magic Treehouse Series, so we did that after lunch.

Both boys created a thank you card for our guest last week. They wrote out a note, and decorated the card with pictures.

We are starting a unit on the human body, so I read a book about the 5 senses to the boys.

Since C did so much math today, math will be light for the rest of the week, so he can catch up on other work that he didn't do today.

Saturday, Week 8

2007-10-13T14:53:00.000-07:00

We attended a "Health & Wellness Fair" put on by the community fitness center today. It was a completely free event, and we had a blast! The boys got information from the fire station and the American Red Cross about safety, some information about tobacco use, sun protection, and got quite a few freebies.

They also offered free classes. We took 2 -- during one we made a very neat glass suncatcher, and in the other class the boys made a yoga mat bag (well, they started the bag -- we'll have to finish it next week.) The instructor complimented them on their attention span and interest.

I'm so glad my sister saw the notice for this event! It was a great way to spend the morning -- and it didn't cost a dime.

Thursday & Friday, Week 8

2007-10-12T22:54:00.000-07:00

Yesterday a friend of the boys was off school, and she needed a place to spend the afternoon, so we all went to the AZ Natural History Museum and the Museum of Youth. She was excited to accompany the boys on one of their "field trips!" It's fun to watch C read the plaques this year when we visit places.

C completed 6 math workbook pages and N completed 4 over the last 2 days. N read another BOB book. C read his Faith & Life chapter and completed 2 workbook pages. C did a page in his spelling workbook and didn't do well on an oral spelling test (the list had "oa" and "ol" words mixed together which confused him. ie. soap and hold)

C did quite a bit of independent reading. N enjoys cutting paper at every opportunity. He made an interesting treasure box and also a collage of houses. The boys completed a couple coloring pages. N did a copywork page on the letter "Q."

N needs to practice counting in the teens, and recognizing those numbers. He can recognize the numbers 1 - 10, and 20 and above, but struggles with 13 - 19. Much of this will be done on the fly, when the opportunity is there.

C memorized another memory gem for the week.

We're planning on attending a "Health & Wellness Fair" tomorrow and I may decide that is schooling enough and call it a week. We are starting a unit on the human body next week.

Tuesday, Week 8

2007-10-09T11:51:00.001-07:00

Both boys drew entries in their nature journals. I wrote N's entry, C wrote his own. They both chose to draw our new ice plant.

N did 2 math pages in his workbook and then practiced telling time with a play clock. He moved the clock to different times, then wrote the time out on the dry erase portion. C did 5 pages in his math workbook today. Both boys started new chapters (C started Chapter 5, N started Chapter 6.)

Colin completed one page in his spelling workbook and attempted one page in his grammar workbook. The grammar page will have to be re-done.

N did copywork for the letters O & P.

Saturday, Week 7

2007-10-06T11:49:00.000-07:00

We attended the first in the Phoenix Symphony family concert series this afternoon. Between company and the concert, we did no "schooling."

Friday, Week 7

2007-10-05T23:45:00.000-07:00

Both boys drew entries in their nature journals today. I wrote N's entry, C wrote his own entry. Both boys worked with coins and made piles of coins to equal $1.

N read the 9th BOB book with ease. C read a couple chapters from an abridged version of Treasure Island.

We're expecting out-of-town company today, so some manic cleaning ensued.

Thursday, Week 7

2007-10-04T19:38:00.000-07:00

This morning, when I put out the schooling bins, both boys hopped up to the island and got right to work. It felt great!!

N did 3 pages in his math workbook and wrote a thank you note to his aunt. He also did copywork for the letters "M" and "N".

Both boys colored a page of St. Francis (today is his feast day.)

C did 2 pages in his grammar workbook, 1 page in his spelling workbook, got 100% on his oral spelling test, 1 page in his religion workbook.

We read through this week's Magnifikid together.

The boys played Battleship (practicing letters, numbers and the idea of coordinates.)

C read independently another Magic Treehouse book and the latest issue of "Big Backyard." He read a Cookie Monster book to his brother, and a board book to his sister.

The boys sorted coins and added up values.

N asked to skip reading again today. He practiced beginning and ending sounds of words. He will practice reading tomorrow.

Tuesday, Week 7

2007-10-02T14:24:00.001-07:00

Both boys did a worksheet about adding up the value of mixed pennies & nickels. N was originally frustrated when he saw the worksheet, but quickly picked up on it and completed it just fine. He didn't think he could count by 5's, but then realized he could.

Today is the Feast of Guardian Angels and I gave the boys construction paper, scissors and glue and asked them to create a picture of their guardian angels. They both created very sweet angels, and even wrote "My Guardian Angel" at the top of their pages.

Both boys did copywork -- C wrote out the guardian angel prayer, N wrote the first verse of the prayer.

C read the 4th chapter of his Faith & Life book -- which happened to be about guardian angels! (I couldn't have planned that better if I tried!) He also did a page in his spelling workbook.

I read a book to them about guardian angels, and we looked at some artists' pictures of angels.

Saturday, Week 6

2007-09-29T21:32:00.000-07:00

Both boys did a copywork page about the archangels, and another identify/count page about coins. They did a coloring/cut/paste page about St. Michael the Archangel.

We read about the archangels (today is the Feast of Archangels.)

C was really struggling today -- acting very stressed and worked up. We had a good week, so I decided we had done enough for the day.

Friday, Week 6

2007-09-28T13:46:00.000-07:00

I had planned a zoo or botanical garden visit for today, but the clouds were threatening rain, and L has an intense dislike of riding in the car these days -- so I didn't want to risk a 25 minute drive to end up rained out. We'll make it next week, I'm sure!

Both boys completed a coin worksheet where they had to identify coins and then color and count them. I had C also compute the value of the coins. N requested to do more money worksheets, so he did 2 pages in his math workbook. N completed a copy page of the letter "L" and read the 8th BOB book.

C requested that we start his grammar book, so he completed 3 pages in that today. He also completed a spelling page, and did his oral spelling test (missed the word "say" which was the odd word out of this week's list.) C read independently the 1st chapter of an abridged version of Treasure Island. We read this week's Magnifikids together.

Both boys did a Ninja Turtle coloring page and additional coloring and cutting on plain paper. We watched the first section from Sister Wendy's Story of Painting dvd. They played outside. They played inside.

We're heading to the library soon.

Thursday, Week 6

2007-09-27T14:29:00.000-07:00

The boys attended their enrichment program yesterday. Fall ball is over, so it wasn't as hectic when they got home. Tonight is the open house for their program, so it'll be interesting to see more of what they've been doing.

We started a new unit about money today. N completed 2 pages in his workbook adding pennies and nickels. C completed 2 worksheets doing the same, but with higher sums. We watched a video tour of how coins are made at the US Mint website. We dumped out a jar of coins and went over the differences between each coin. We practiced counting by 5's and 10's. We made stacks of coins to equal one dollar. We talked about 1/2 dollar and dollar coins (I didn't have any, but we looked at pictures of them.)

C completed a page in his spelling workbook, a page in his religion workbook, and 2 pages in his word journal. N completed a copywork page on the letter K.

I read the book Cactus Hotel. N read the 7th BOB book (and did a really fantastic job with it! I think it's finally sinking in. We read in a different spot today, and decided that we need to read in that spot every day.) C read independently 8 chapters in a Magic Treehouse book during quiet hour. (I am so glad he can read independently now as I did not like reading those books out loud at all, but the boys enjoy them.) He is eager to tell me about the chapters, so I know his comprehension is good.

The weather is beautiful and they've been playing outdoors during breaks.

Tuesday, Week 6

2007-09-25T13:42:00.000-07:00

I'm almost afraid to say it -- but today was another great day. I hope we've made a turn for the better and the easy days are much more common than the difficult ones!!

Today, both boys colored an orca whale, did a secret code worksheet (adding 2 numbers, then matching the sum to a letter to decode the answer), created play-doh creatures, and listened to Anansi and the Magic Stick.

C read Chapter 3 in "Faith & Life" and answered the questions at the end of the chapter. He completed a page about alphabetical order in his spelling workbook. He also completed a very large poster about himself for his enrichment program (favorites, family names, what he's good at, etc. etc.) There was a lot of writing, coloring and gluing photographs down. He did a great job! He also memorized this week's memory gem, and was surprised to realize he also remembered last week's.

N practiced writing his name, and decided to also practice writing "Nate the Great." He worked on figuring out the beginning sound of a bunch of things around the house. I was extremely proud of his efforts on the secret code worksheet -- he completed it with no complaints and did a fantastic job - not only with the sums, but with matching the letters and then writing the letters.

Both boys played outdoors for recess, helped clean up after breakfast and lunch, and helped clean the living room. They also helped sorting out their clothes to get rid of those that are too small and figuring out what they'll need when the temperatures drop to 70.

L has a bit of a cold, but took a very long morning nap, which helped us get a lot done. I'm thrilled with the progress today, and especially thrilled that there were no tears, arguing, yelling or complaining from any of us!

Friday, Week 5

2007-09-21T12:32:00.000-07:00

Another good day! We're on a roll :)

Since today is the feast of St. Matthew, we talked about him today and briefly on the other 3 evangelists. The boys colored a page of St. Matthew collecting taxes, and another of his coat of arms. We talked about his symbol (human/angel) and read about when Jesus told him to follow. I three-hole punched the pages they colored and put them in a notebook. We're going to try and make a notebook with all the projects from feast/saint days.

The boys both did a copywork page. N did a page in his math workbook about counting pennies (we're doing a money unit next week.)

C read 2 books to me, N read part of a BOB book, I read the remainder of the whales and dolphins book.

We made cheddar coins to celebrate St. Matthew's day.

I dictated a shopping list, and C wrote it out for me.

DH had only one call, and it was a bust, so he's home super-early. L is still fussy and didn't sleep well at all last night. We're trying to decide what to do with our afternoon right now, and I think we might hit up a museum.

Thursday, Week 5

2007-09-20T12:16:00.000-07:00

Another good day! The boys were great, and schooling went well, even with caring for an infant with a fever (poor baby).

N did one page in his math workbook about time and one worksheet, C did one worksheet about time. They both had a great time working with the new clocks I found that have movable hands and a dry erase pen to write the time out. I would shout out a time, and they'd move the hands and write the time out. They also played with them independently for a while, creating times.

We made origami whales, I read Jonah & the Whale, and more from the book about whales and dolphins to go along with our whales/dolphins/mammals unit.

C read Sugar Snow out loud to us. N read the 6th BOB book. I read Daniel & the Lions out loud.

C completed a review page in his spelling workbook, and 2 pages in his Faith & Life Workbook. He also completed a page in his word journal.

Both boys created *something* using paper, scissors and tape. I'm not exactly sure what the final piece was supposed to be, but they had good practice cutting.

C has memorized this week's memory gem.

They're watching Here Come the ABC's at the moment, which is a fun letter video that is not baby-ish.

Yesterday was their enrichment day, and they got to go on a field trip to see a play version of Charlotte's Web, which they thoroughly enjoyed. Last night was also the last Wednesday of fall ball for the season.

Tuesday, Week 5

2007-09-18T17:35:00.000-07:00

Today was an AWESOME day. There were NO arguments, no complaints, no procrastination, no tears, no fights -- nothing but awesome attitudes and cheerful demeanors. Today is the kind of day that shows me that we can homeschool and enjoy it!

Both boys drew in their nature journals and I wrote their entries.

N did 2 pages in his math workbook (matching analog and digital times) and C did the same worksheet he bombed last week on time (and only missed one this time.)

N practiced the letters I and J in "Little Folks" and read to me from the 5th BOB book.

C completed an entire week's worth of spelling (2 pages and an oral test.) He read to me from an early reader (2nd grade level) and then read the 2nd chapter of his "Faith & Life" book to me. He also practiced the number 9 in his "Little Folks" workbook.

I read from a book about whales and dolphins and also this week's Magnifikids.

We danced between assignments to the Shrek soundtrack. (I think this extra, very fun activity helped Nate immensely to transition from one thing to another.)

We played dominoes and Go Fish.

I finally remembered to write out the memory gem on the whiteboard on our refrigerator, and C noticed it right away and read it off. I plan to leave it up there for the week, and also make a copywork page from it. This week's reads: "Hearts, like doors, will open with ease, To very, very little keys, And don't forget that two of these Are 'Thank you, Sir' and 'If you please!' "

We met DH for lunch, and then I took my shaggy-haired boys for haircuts. DH's call after lunch was a bust, so we met up again to get the oil changed in both vehicles. (funny aside - I put socks on L today when we went out because the high daily temp has dropped below 100. I know that seems crazy, but that's Arizona for you!)

Saturday, Week 4

2007-09-15T21:46:00.000-07:00

It's been a long, tough week with DH out of town.

We did no formal schooling today - but the boys played their fall ball games this morning and we played a bunch of games (dominoes, Kazink, cards) this afternoon.

We played a game in the pool reviewing time-telling and questions about animals.

We read through the Magnifikid for this week. I read a chapter from the current Paddington book we're reading. C did some independent reading in a book about castles. N practiced the sounds of various letters (I would say -- find something that starts with a "F" and he would look through the house to find something that matched. He did pretty good!)

N had a hard time controlling his body (kicking out in the air and "accidentally" making contact with his brother's body, punching at the air, squeezing L, etc.) and so I sent him out to run laps in the backyard a few times. He actually went and did it with no complaint and seemed to be in more control when he came back in. I *know* he needs a ton of physical activity, but it's exhausting to try and help him get enough. The more he is able to move, the better he is able to focus. I have tried to make him do push-ups as a consequence in the past, but I don't think they're active enough to help. Now that it's cooling off (ha! isn't it funny that I think 100 degrees is "cooling off"?) I will try the lap running more often.

While it feels like we "skipped" school, learning happened and that's what is important. DH comes home tomorrow and we'll buckle down more next week again. I'm proud of what we've accomplished in 4 weeks! It was probably time for a break anyway!

Friday, Week 4

2007-09-14T12:03:00.000-07:00

I declared this morning that we were taking the day off from "schooling"! This announcement was met with great glee from N!

Actually, we're taking a day off from workbooks and worksheets. There's still plenty of learning going on around here! :)

N helped me mix up pancake batter and did all the measuring, as well as pulling out the ingredients, himself. All I had to do was pour and flip! The boys ate them up, but I'm wondering if my baking soda is old since they weren't very fluffy? My baking powder was just purchased, but I can't remember when I bought the baking soda. Maybe later we'll make some volcanoes and I'll test it.

C wrote out a "to-do" list for today and a separate grocery list. I like being able to dictate to him while I'm doing other things ;) It helps him practice writing and spelling as well.

We sorted laundry and got a load started. We gathered trash and got that to the curb. The boys dusted the living room and cleaned the mirrors in the bathrooms.

I need to feed L and then we're off to run errands. (library, grocery store, pick up our dog's ashes which have been sitting at the vet for WAY TOO LONG, bank, maybe haircuts)

Enjoy your Friday!!

Thursday, Week 4

2007-09-13T15:20:00.000-07:00

Last night, the boys had their fall ball practices. On Monday, C had fallen and scraped up his arm. He was telling me that it still hurt, and he didn't think he should practice. (N's league is at 6, C's is at 7.) I just looked at him and said "okay." Personally, I was exhausted and one less hour at the field was just fine with me. About 15 minutes before N was done, I asked C, "Are you sure you don't want to practice tonight?" And he replied that he did not. I was very non-committal in my response, but part of me *knew* that I should encourage him to play and fulfill his commitment to his team. But, darn it, I was tired! Anyway -- N comes off the field and C looks at me and says "I really should practice tonight, Mom. We're already here and my team is counting on me!" I said "okay! I think that's a really good decision and I'm proud of you."

I WAS proud of him. I was feeling a bit guilty that I hadn't tried to talk him into practicing, but I was extremely proud that he came to the decision on his own. When we got into the van after practice he said "That was a great practice! I'm so glad I stayed!"

Today N fought a bit about starting school, but came around rather quickly and got down to work. I hope this is the beginning of a switch for him.

They both did their nature journals today and practiced reading. (I have a review of BOB books up on my other blog.) They also practiced cutting by trying to follow curvy lines on a piece of paper.

N did a page in his math workbook (filling in the numbers on the face of a clock) and C did a worksheet page about time. He got about 1/2 of them right, so we reviewed hour hand vs. minute hand again and did some additional practice. He's struggling a bit with the concept of minutes vs. the numbers he actually sees on the clock face. We practiced counting by 5's again as well.

C did a page in his spelling workbook and we did the oral test of spelling words. He missed one. He also did 2 pages in his word journal.

They both colored a coloring page from Shrek and did copywork pages in the "Little Folks" books.

I read out loud some information about whales and dolphins.

We played dominoes this afternoon with a wonderful set I picked up at Target clearance. They're made from bamboo wood and feel so nice in your hand.

I also pulled out the paints and let them paint. N has been asking to paint for a while now, but I didn't feel like dealing with the mess. I'm happy to say that the mess was very minimal, and they both enjoyed painting.

Tuesday, Week 4

2007-09-11T17:40:00.001-07:00

Yesterday, the boys started their homeschool P.E. class. It meets once a week at a nearby park. The boys were hesitant about going, but had a blast! The class is made up of 20-30 kids, ranging in age from 5 to 15. There's a coach, who developed a good rapport with the kids right away. During the month of September, the focus is on "water games," which is perfect since we're still above 100 degrees. This program is also offering leagues -- one of which being soccer, which N especially is interested in. The thing I like about their leagues is that they correspond to what they're learning during P.E., so the class is like practice, and there's only one other time commitment for the game.

Last night, C played coach pitch while I stayed home with N & L. We hopped in the pool and were still swimming when DH & C came back, so we all swam for a while. Yesterday was definitely a high physical activity day!

Today was a good schooling day, until near the end when N got into an argument with C over crayons or markers or somesuch nonsense.

N completed 2 pages in his math workbook and 2 pages in "Little Folks Number" book.

We started a unit on time, and Chapter 5 of N's workbook is about time. We did a time unit last year, so C has more of an understanding of time than N, but he definitely has more to learn. We talked about the hour and minute hand, practiced counting by 5's, discussed A.M. vs. P.M., looked at analog clocks vs. digital clocks, and practiced telling time with a play clock. I'll concentrate more on the concept of hours with N, and C will move into learning "half-past" and specific minutes (i.e. 9:52). C took great delight in looking at his watch (a new one -- we bought him one last year that broke & wasn't replaced. Amazon has a great deal on kid's timex watches - he has this one. N has a watch as well, but it's currently misplaced.) and telling us what time it was for the rest of the day.

C completed a page in his spelling workbook and 3 pages in his "Faith and Life" activity book. I read the first chapter out loud to N & C. (I like it SO much better than the book our parish is using for RE. They're using "Faith First" and I am completely unimpressed.)

The boys worked on a sea-life puzzle and C read out loud a book about sharks.

We began discussing mammals and will do a brief unit on whales & dolphins to close out our ocean unit and transition into our mammal unit.

They boys did a coloring page of a boy playing t-ball.

I just realized we forgot to do nature journals today! We'll start with them on Thursday.

Tomorrow is enrichment and then fall ball. This is the 2nd to last Wednesday for fall ball, but then we'll likely move into the soccer league. I can't wait until the temperatures drop into the low 90's so we can go to the zoo and the botanical gardens!

Saturday, Week 3

2007-09-08T19:37:00.000-07:00

Today was a good day. We didn't touch a workbook, but I know they learned a lot today ; 0

First thing this morning were fall ball games. Can I admit that I'll be glad when they're in the same league again next year so I only have to spend 1.5 hours in the blazing sun at the ballpark instead of 3? I'm not a sports mom . . . I find it numbingly boring to watch little kids play baseball. It wouldn't be bad if it wasn't still so hot. I wish they'd move the season a month later in the year.

We got home and made a cake from scratch (the Classic Yellow Cake from King Arthur's Flour Cookbook) to celebrate Mary's birth. I really love to bake, and haven't done much in years! The boys helped with measuring and mixing and pouring.

While the cake was baking, they gathered all the Mary figurines we have around the house to stand around the finished cake. (will add picture later.) After that was done, C wrote out the grocery list that I dictated to him. He did a great job spelling on his own.

We ran to the library, where C chose a couple books he can read from the Nate the Great series and N chose a few books he wanted read to him. I picked up books I had requested a week or so ago.

The boys both helped in the grocery store, reading from the list and finding the necessary items. L got extremely frustrated right before we were ready to check out, but the other people in line were very sweet and helpful. The lines were LONG because they only had 2 checkers working, but one sweet woman spoke kindly to me, an older man loaded my groceries into my cart from the conveyor, and another family congratulated me on my beautiful family. Some days we've experienced nastiness and rude comments -- but it was all sunshine and smiles today!

While I was nursing L when we got home, I read 2 new books we received yesterday - Brigid's Cloak & Why Noah Chose the Dove. Both were wonderful reads with great messages.

I managed to mix up and frost the cake with a pale blue buttercream while carrying L in her sling. I still need to clear off the table to set up our tableau . . . and it's 7:45PM. ugh. Oh, well, I tried my best!

Friday, Week 3

2007-09-07T18:32:00.001-07:00

Umm, maybe we should give up on Fridays. Another lousy start to the day -- DH let the boys play on the computer and even loaded a *new* game for them while I was still sleeping / feeding the baby. Apparently, he forgot the new rule about computer use before schooling -- but since he had no sales calls until 6PM -- he got to see full force what it does to my day.

Nate especially was horrid. I felt like a fool, and DH doesn't understand at all why I would want to homeschool when they behave so horribly. I felt as if I had no control today (which is because I had NO control today.) DH tried to help by working with Nate on his phonics reader, but it was a struggle from the 2nd word. Where I would have likely stopped and picked it up again later -- DH kept plugging away and they both got more and more frustrated with each other. DH has never really been fully on board with the idea of homeschooling, and having him witness a day like today doesn't help me continue keeping them home.

Among various temper tantrums and consequences . . . we did accomplish the following:

both boys completed the chapter reviews in their math workbooks for Chapter 4. (reminder: we started the books last spring, so it's not like we've rushed through 4 chapters in only 3 weeks.)

both boys completed copywork pages in the "Little Folks" books. N completed a page of 9's, while C completed a page of L's, and then took it upon himself to do a page of numbers as well.

N completed the last upper/lower case matching worksheet, and finally did complete reading the phonics book.

C completed a word search puzzle, wrote in his word journal and drew pictures to go with the journal entries, read 2 books to me, and took an oral spelling test (he missed the word "stir" which did NOT fit in with the other words in the list at all, so it was understandable.)

C & I played the addition card game again and he did well adding in his head.

Both boys did an art project to go along with our ocean / sharks unit. They took 10x13 pieces of dark blue paper and drew an underwater scene. I gave them a sheet of aluminum foil and they cut out sharks from the foil and glued them into the scene. I take a very hands-off approach to art projects, and I think they both did a nice job. C mentioned that the art project was a great way to end the day.

We went out to lunch and the boys' behavior could have been better in my opinion, but a woman sitting across from us stopped on her way out and congratulated me on their behavior. We came home to an afternoon of swimming, then DH left for his call and I fed the boys dinner.

Before bed, we'll read through this week's Magnifikids.

We did accomplish most of what I had planned for the day -- but it was such a struggle that I am exhausted. Tomorrow is a new day!

Thursday, Week 3

2007-09-06T11:15:00.000-07:00

Today was a bit of a laid back day. The boys had their enrichment program yesterday, and then fall ball in the evening which ran late. I let them sleep in this morning, and we had plans to go to a local museum for their homeschool event this afternoon.

I decided to let our schooling at home be a little light because of the field trip.

Both boys did 2 math pages. Tomorrow they will do the "chapter check-ups" and be ready to move onto the next chapter next week. Actually, I think we're going to take a break from the workbook and do a unit on telling time.

Nate did a copy page for the letter "G" from 'Little Folks."

Colin did a page from his spelling workbook, and will read out loud in the van on the way to the museum.

We do a lot of reading around here that I don't record in this blog, since it just feels like part of our life. Maybe one of these weeks I'll work at recording all that we read in a week. Right now, Dad is reading Huckleberry Finn as bedtime reading, while I'm still reading them one of the Paddington books at bedtime when Dad is not home. During the day, we read from a bunch of different books.

Tuesday, Week 3

2007-09-04T12:50:00.001-07:00

The day started with a big temper tantrum from C over shoes. We bought him new shoes before we left for Wisconsin at the beginning of August, and he has already outgrown them. We bought new shoes last night, a full size larger, and this morning there were "issues" with them already. I talked with DH and we think it's more that he doesn't like hard shoes vs. the new ones not fitting . . . but I've given up talking to him about it for the day. I'll let DH deal with him later.

N was extremely cooperative today and eager to do his work!

The day started with nature journals. I encouraged C to write his own entry, and with only a little help with spelling "toadstool" he did just fine.

Both boys did math workbook pages (N completed 2, C completed 1.)

Both did some copywork in last year's "Little Folks" practice books for letters and numbers. We started them last year, but never finished them. Working in the books is definitely remedial for C, but I like the religious focus of each page and decided it was good reinforcement for his letter & number formation.

N read books 2 & 3 from the 1st set of Bob Books. I am so proud of his efforts here! He really works at sounding out the words, and his recognition of lower case letters has dramatically increased in the last few weeks.

C completed one page from his spelling workbook and a few pages in his word journal. The word journal is WAY too basic for him, but he is enjoying drawing the pictures to go on each page. He read out loud to me from an early reader. He finished "80 Days Around the World" over the weekend. I would like to order some of the early readers from Seton for him in the next few weeks.

DH didn't have any calls today, so he came home and we all went to the movies. We had the entire theater to ourselves! I almost didn't go, as I didn't know how L would do -- but she did just fine. Suddenly, a whole new world opened up to me! At least for the next few months, we can go to afternoon movies when most kids are in school. And, when the boys are in their enrichment program, I can go see adult movies!

Tomorrow the boys have their enrichment program. We have a conflict between fall ball games, and a special mass at church for RE. I think we'll be attending the mass, but I think DH would like the boys to go to their games. The mass is not required, but I think it would be a nice way to kick off the year. DH feels that they have a commitment to their teams. I'm still on the fence.

Saturday, Week 2

2007-09-01T17:47:00.000-07:00

Today was MUCH better than yesterday. The boys and I really talked about it later that day, and they both expressed a strong desire to continue homeschooling. We talked about rules to make our day easier, and C said they shouldn't play DS or computer until after schooling.

Today, the boys did math workbook pages, colored a coloring page of an angel, and each did their language arts worksheet. (C did a wordsearch, N matched upper & lower case letters.)

We read a couple books about sharks.

Then the boys made dessert for tonight's dinner. A month or so ago, I saw an Easy Bake kit on the shelf that looked like fish floating in cups of gelatin. (I guess they're not making them anymore, because a quick search turns up nothing, not even on the hasbro site?) I figured it would fit in well with our unit on oceans and sharks, so picked it up for around $3. It was easy to put together, and I could have done so without the kit, but it was very convenient to have everything together. The kit had 4 clear plastic cups, a light blue gelatin, blue sugar crystals, and 2 packages of gummy fish. We talked about measuring when we made the gelatin, then poured it in the cups. The cups went in the freezer for 15 minutes and then we used toothpicks to push the fish into the cups. A discussion about the different consistency of the gelatin ensued. The blue sugar was sprinkled on top and while the idea was to eat them after dinner, the boys decided to eat them right then. We saved one for Daddy when he gets home from work.

C did some independent reading.

The boys and I played a card game. I took out the face cards, and dealt 2 cards on the table. The first one to correctly add the numbers together took the cards, and the largest pile at the end won. Ummm, I won both times we played -- even though I tried NOT to win the 2nd time. Oh, well, It's a good game to practice facts. I think I might add a writing element to it next time as N definitely needs to practice writing numbers and C still writes some backwards.

I had intended to have them do an art project today, but we had to go grocery shopping and then I fell asleep with the baby when we got home. They're playing an involved game with about 50 plastic animals at the moment -- so I think the art project can wait until next week.

Friday, Week 2

2007-08-31T14:36:00.001-07:00

Today was a difficult day. The boys were ornery and I am tired. L hasn't been sleeping well this week, and I let this morning get away from me. Usually the boys do their morning duties, eat breakfast and then start their schooling at the kitchen island. Unfortunately, I didn't clean the kitchen last night after dinner -- and I was too tired to press things this morning -- so the boys played on the computer AND with their DS's before even getting dressed. Since I was still behind in basic household stuff -- I let them watch the shark dvd while I breastfed L, and then let them start their workbooks in my bedroom.

C complained about subtraction and N threw a fit over copywork. They both yelled and complained and I'm not proud to say that I did the same. I told N to get me the phone so I could just enroll them in regular school because I didn't want to argue over schoolwork! Not a good day :(

We did get some things accomplished however when all is said & done.

Both boys:

completed math workbook pages (C one page of addition & one page of subtraction; N 3 pages about the number 12.)
copywork (family names)
Ninja Turtle coloring page
watched "One Night with a Queen" with me. Great movie about the story of Esther!

word search puzzle
one page in his word journal
read Chapter 2 of the beginning reader of "Around the World in 80 Days"

matched upper & lower case letters worksheet
orally spelled and sounded out each word on his copywork page

I realize that I didn't handle things as best I could have today. It would definitely be easier in some ways if we didn't homeschool, but I still feel it is the best thing for our family. I have to work harder to make sure the schooling area is ready for work, so there is no delay in starting our day. I also hadn't planned meals for the day, so everyone was hungry and scrambling for easy food. If this year is going to work, I MUST get at least an hour to make plans for the week and do any necessary preparation. I really can't count on DH to help me find that time with his schedule, so I need to figure it out on my own.

In the end, we accomplished all that needed to be done today. But the boys & I are frustrated at each other and in lousy moods. This is NOT what I want our days to be like.

Thursday, Week 2

2007-08-30T11:54:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was "enrichment" day. Both boys took the leap and are now buying milk from the cafeteria. (if only I can now convince them to also buy their lunches?!) Both had a good day, and are excited about a planned field trip in a couple weeks to see a stage version of Charlotte's Web with their classes. The evening was full of fall ball practice. I got to meet a friend for lunch, and then do a little shopping. I was excited to find 2 pairs of shark pajamas for the boys (especially since they need pajamas.)

Today, both boys:

copywork about sharks
math workbook pages (C - 3 subtraction pages, N - 4 pages about numbers 11 & 12)
Ninja Turtle coloring page
watched a dvd from Netflix: Island of the Sharks
Colin read Daniel and the Lions to me and N. We discussed the story and the fact it was from the Bible.
played a card game of SNAP

C:
word search and then found "secret" word with uncircled letters
1 page from spelling workbook
oral spelling test. He missed 2 words, so he copied those words 5 times each
read (out loud) first chapter of Around the World in 80 Days (beginning reader)

N:

worksheet matching upper & lower case letters

Their dad was able to come home this afternoon, so both boys ran some errands with him while I took L to run errands I needed to do. Extra time with their father is definitely one reason we homeschool. If they were in traditional school, they would have missed seeing their dad at all today, since he headed back out for a late sales call after errands.

ugh, need to figure out how to title these!

2007-08-28T13:06:00.000-07:00

Yes, I need to figure out how to title these. The date is already there . . . need to think on this.

ANYWAY, today the boys:

Drew in their nature journals, while I wrote their entries. Both boys drew a barrel cactus in our backyard. Nate drew the roots going down into the earth as well. Colin drew a cloud in the sky that looked like a castle. Colin was writing his own entries last spring; I need to get him back to doing that.

Completed math workbook pages. Colin did 2, Nate did 2.

Completed copywork page. Both practiced our phone number and their full names.

Colored a shark coloring page.

Listened to me read some basic info about sharks. (It's a shark unit this week.)

Colin also did:

1 page in his spelling workbook.

Read one story from an early reader book to me.

A worksheet about the /sh/ sound.

Nate also did:

A worksheet matching uppercase and lowercase letters from A - E. He will complete the rest of the alphabet throughout this week.

Sat with me and sounded out the words in the 1st book of Set 1 of Bob Books. He was so very pleased with himself! He can't wait for his dad to come home so he can read to him. I honestly wasn't sure he was ready, but he proved me wrong! I love when that happens :)

We're headed off to the Arizona Natural History Museum because they have a display of a prehistoric shark mouth, as well as some prehistoric ocean displays. DH had a morning and evening call, so he was able to join us this afternoon!

August 24 - End of First Week

2007-08-24T16:36:00.000-07:00

Most weeks we'll be schooling Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. This week, however, since we have guests arriving tomorrow and L's baptism on Sunday, I decided to make it a 4 day week (counting their Wednesday enrichment day as a schooling day.)

Both Boys:

Math pages (C did the chapter 3 review test and scored 100%, so we're moving on to Chapter 4 next week. N did the last 3 pages of his Chapter 3, so he'll move on to Chapter 4 next week.)

Copywork (C wrote 2 sentences about L's baptism, N copied Lydia, baptism, Sunday and church.)

Worksheet (both completed the same worksheet about circling the beginning letter of various sea animals pictured.)

Read through a tongue twister, Susie sells seashells . . .

Read a book about oceans

Finished reading the coloring book about mass. Went over this week's Magnifikids.

C also completed 2 pages of a picture/word journal and read to me from an early reader.

A good friend came to help me shop for food for Sunday, and so we did that this afternoon. There's a bunch of cleaning to do around here, as well as laundry, and then food prep tomorrow for L's big day on Sunday. I think we had a pretty good week and other than some discipline issues with N (which we'll continue to work on) I'm ready for another week!

checklist

2007-08-23T15:34:00.001-07:00

I'm still trying to decide the best way to proceed with this blog. I think I'm going to keep checklists of daily work, with the occasional extra post with something special that we do.

Today, both boys completed:

copy work about the names of the 5 oceans of the world
a search and find puzzle about things on the bottom of the ocean
math workbook pages (N completed 3, C completed 2)
listened to me read from the mass coloring book and then colored a bit in the book
completed a baseball maze
watched a dvd from Netflix: Ocean Oasis

While the work is similar, more is expected of C. For example, his copywork is both upper and lower case letters and complete sentences while N has only upper case at this point, and just individual words.

In addition to the work above, the boys completed the following work on their own.

C:

1 page from his spelling workbook
oral spelling test (100%)
read an easy reader out loud in the van while running errands

N:

recited his ABC's
orally practiced the sound of each letter in the alphabet
reviewed vowels vs. consonants

Yesterday, the boys attended their enrichment program and came home to play fall ball.

First Day, New Year

2007-08-21T22:00:00.000-07:00

I have 2 posts in draft mode right now about why we homeschool and our plans for this year -- but I just don't have the time to finalize them right now! I did want to post about our first day, and will get the other 2 posts up as soon as I'm able.

We had a wonderful first day :)

Started the day as usual -- the boys got up, brushed teeth, ate breakfast, got dressed and made their beds. I'm so glad we started this routine months ago so it is considered normal and basic now.

We pulled out their nature journals and went into the front yard so they could make their first entries of the year. N drew a bird flying over a neighbor's home and C drew a fly on a tree. They both dictated to me their entries, but I know that C will soon get back to writing his own. I popped L in a sling and she was content to hang out in the front yard with the boys.

We came back in to math workbooks. C completed one page and N completed 3. We started the 1st grade and K workbooks last March, so we're continuing in those books. C did a page of subtraction facts, while N practiced writing the numbers 8, 9 and zero as well as circling sets of zero.

After math was completed, the boys did a page of copywork. Something simple today -- they copied their full names and our address.

I read from a coloring book about mass, and they colored a few of the pages. We'll continue reading this throughout the week, plan to be completed by Friday.

They colored a coloring page of a dragon. Their dad is currently reading Jeremy Thatcher, Dragon Hatcher as a bedtime story, so this was appropriate. We decided to mail their completed drawings to their uncle in WI.

It was time for a snack, so I put out the ingredients for ants on a log and they made their own snack. They were both thrilled at making it themselves, and were eager to tell Daddy when he came home how they were learning to cook! I definitely plan to incorporate more "life skills" into our school year.

After their snack, they played a bit. N continued to play while C did a page from his spelling workbook. He then read to me from an Usborne early reader. He had absolutely no trouble reading the book, which helped me decide that he is ready for more writing and some grammar work.

While I was nursing L, we talked about oceans and they learned there are 5 oceans on earth. (did you know that? In 2000, they added the 5th, which was a surprise to me when I was preparing this lesson.) I have a few books and a few dvds on the way from Netflix to round out our ocean studies this week, as well as a few worksheets. They looked at a flattened globe worksheet and we identified where the different oceans were.

It was time for lunch and they helped prepare once again. We had hot dogs on bun, pretzels, grapes and chocolate milk.

After lunch, they completed their binder cover. I printed out a sheet that has "2007 - 2008 School Year" across the top, then a picture of each boy. Under the picture, I printed "Name, Age on 8/21/07, Weight on 8/21/07, Height on 8/21/07, Favorite Color, Favorite Food and Plans for this year." They filled in the blanks and I will put the page on the front of the binder where I keep samples of their work throughout the year. N enjoyed looking through last year's binder, even though I wasn't very good about keeping it updated :(

Our "official" schooling was complete and I was very happy with our day. In the afternoon, C read a book about robots to N and then a board book to L. They also helped around the house by cleaning the big hall mirror and the glass sliding back door. They emptied the dryer twice and carried the laundry to the laundry room.

end of year

2007-06-15T17:26:00.000-07:00

We continued to homeschool, but I didn't keep up with this blog. I DO plan to blog as we start our next school year, however -- so stop back this August! I may also put up a few planning and goal posts this summer.

We had a good school year, ending it around the time of my youngest's birth at the end of April. Colin moved into mostly 1st grade books in February / March and we'll pick up there in the fall. Nate decided he was ready to do more work, so he started his Kindergarten math book around the same time.

This summer, both boys are attending camps at a local natural history museum, the zoo and our church. Colin is reading pretty well and is reading independently.

We loosely followed Catholic Heritage's curriculum this year, and will continue with CHC next year. As we did this year, I expect to supplement with additional reading materials as well as adding some extra history and possibly science. I also expect to be active in our homeschooling group next year. Although we were members last year, we didn't participate in anything due to a difficult pregnancy.

still here

2006-10-31T08:36:00.000-08:00

We are still homeschooling! I just haven't kept up with posting our daily/weekly progress on this blog.

I discovered I was pregnant in early September, and suffered through quite the bout with pregnancy nausea. I'm feeling much better now - but trying to decide how to pursue this blog.

I'll be back when I've made a decision!

Week 5, In Review

2006-09-17T22:13:00.000-07:00

Tuesday the boys worked on their nature journals. We were out front again, and Colin drew a house with clouds, while Nate drew a leaf.

I read them "Little Acts of Grace" and we practiced the Guardian Angel prayer each day this week.

Both boys worked with the Melissa & Doug spelling puzzle we got from ebeanstalk.com. Colin expanded the puzzle into creating words just using the letters, while Nate stuck with matching the letters to the puzzles.

Colin practiced writing his numbers 0 -9 and completed another couple worksheets about time with mixed hour and 1/2 hour clocks. He read 3 phonics books on his own. He worked on adding numbers in his head -- successfully adding the numbers 0-6 to 0-99. At his enrichment program this week, they worked on the letter "A".

Nate learned to sing the entire ABC song this week, with help from Dad. Prior to now, he would always stop after "D", but he only stumbles a second after V . . . and then finishes up like a champ. He also added more stickers to his letter recognition chart, which is up to 15 now. He successfully adds 0 & 1 to numbers through 20 in his head.

Both boys played outside a lot this week, built with k'nex, blocks, legos and widgets, and listened to a lot of reading done by me. They played with puzzles a couple days and played the game Trouble.

Week 4, At a Glance

2006-09-07T21:30:00.000-07:00

This week started off slow, but we picked up momentum and accomplished most of what I wanted.

Monday we took off for the Labor Day holiday.

Tuesday, the boys drew in their nature journals, and Colin read 3 books (fairly easy phonics readers from the library).

Wednesday, Colin went to his enrichment program and Nate worked on letter recognition. He has 10 stickers on his ABC chart so far!

Thursday, the boys made birthday cards for their grandfather. Colin read one phonics reader, completed another time worksheet, and did pp 1 - 5 in the Little Folks Letter Practice workbook. Nate practiced counting using a tape measure and completed p 1 in the Little Folks Letter Practice workbook. Both boys watched a dvd about telling time and we worked on reciting the guardian angel prayer.

Tomorrow, we have mom's group in the morning. The boys want to attend the natural history museum after that, and I think we will do that. Nate can continue looking for different letters, and Colin can practice his reading while there.

The only thing lacking this week was the art project -- and that's because the fabric remants needed were misplaced. I'm sure I'll find them tomorrow and we'll do the project on Saturday, maybe.

In addition, we read lots of books (as always!)

Week 3, Friday

2006-09-01T16:14:00.000-07:00

One of the joys of homeschooling is being able to pick up and go when the opportunity presents itself. Bo's early call canceled, and his next wasn't until 8PM, so we decided to visit the Commemorative Air Force Museum that was closed last time we tried to visit. The boys (all 3 of them!) had a wonderful time looking at and learning more about the planes that are stored there. The youngest boys also had fun pedaling around in a toy airplane that was in the hangar. We had the entire museum to ourselves, except for the volunteers who were there, and the men working on various planes.

They chose a set of 12 planes from the gift shop, and also 2 gliders. When we got home, the boys built their own airport using the planes, cars, and blocks to build runways, hangars and gas stations.

Nate was able to practice recognizing more letters, and Colin was able to practice reading a little bit.

It's late afternoon, and they're watching a Pink Pather cartoon dvd I picked up a couple weeks ago. They're finding them hilarious and are giggling like mad.

Not much actual "schooling" happened today, but they definitely learned new things and we all enjoyed ourselves.

Week 3, Thursday

2006-08-31T18:53:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was Colin's enrichment day. He learned more about the 5 senses, cut, pasted, colored, drew a flower on the computer, played with a big parachute in PE, and did something in music that he can't recall.

Nate practiced remembering his full name and address.

Today the boys watched the Atelier lesson in the morning and then we met a friend and her baby at the mall for a visit and lunch. The boys had fun helping D pick out some simple toys for her baby and were careful to try and choose things that they thought would be fun for a 3 month old. Colin kept asking "So, what is it that B likes best? How do you keep him happy?" It was very cute.

After lunch, we headed to the gym where they played in the kid center for a while before we swam for 2 hours.

We stopped at a fabric store for remnants to do this week's art lesson and talked about different textures. We talked about measurements as Nate decided we HAD to get some fabric to make a lamb, and there weren't any appropriate remnants.

Then, home for dinner and On the Banks of Plum Creek.

Week 3, Tuesday

2006-08-29T18:43:00.000-07:00

The day started with our nature journals - we decided to go in the front yard this time. Colin drew a blossom from the bird of paradise and the tree in the front yard, Nate drew a rock, I drew the tree trunk from our tree. As usual, I wrote out their narrations.

We moved inside and Colin worked on a time worksheet. This time he wrote out the full time, instead of just filling in the number for "o'clock". He did great and I know he's ready to move on to 15 and 45 minutes past.

While Colin worked on that, Nate worked with a set of art ABC blocks. He is working on learning to recognize all the letters and these blocks seemed to help a great deal. The more active he is, the better he learns. He loved the fact that he is getting better at recognizing the letters, and I still think it's funny that he knows the sound each letter makes, just not what it looks like.

Colin read Level 1, Book 6 in the Little Folks Phonics program. Stumbled a bit over the word "have" since it doesn't follow the silent 'e' / long vowel preceding rule. Otherwise he did great. His reading imprvoes everyday.

Both boys then played with the blocks and added more blocks in to build structures.

Colin needed to find something for the "guessing can" he was sent home with last week at the enrichment program. He was also supposed to think up 3 clues and bring those as well. He thought up 3 clues, I wrote them out, and then had him copy the clues and practice reading them. On his own, he then decided to do some copywork using a book of fairy tales.

Nate was excited that he had successfully recognized 5 letters and we were able to add stickers to his ABC achievement chart. He spent some time looking at different things trying to find more letters.

Nate decided to work on the Number Practice Workbook that he declined to do yesterday.

Week 3, Monday

2006-08-28T18:16:00.000-07:00

I made a worksheet that listed the numbers 0 - 10 in boxes and gave them to the boys with a few sheets of stickers. They counted out the correct number of stickers to go into each box, and got a bit creative when the stickers were too big to fit in the space I allowed. They both did great at this activity, and had fun using the stickers their grandparents sent last week.

I read the first chapter from The Little Book of Saints, Volume 1, Circle of our Days and 2 books from the Tonka Emergency Vehicles series.

Colin read (on his own) Dune Bug and Hop On, Hop Off for his reading chart reading. He also read Books 4 & 5, Level 1 from the CHC Phonics program.

He successfully completed a time worksheet where he had to fill in the "X" o'clock after looking at analog clocks. He had no problem at all.

He worked on pages 3 - 5 from the Little Folks Number Practice, which was only about the number one. Very simple for him. Nate declined to work in his workbook.

Both boys built a castle with legos and drew pictures using stickers, pens, stamps and crayons. Colin created another number matching worksheet on his own. They played outside. They ran errands to the library (Colin chose a few more easy phonics books) and taking the cans to the recycling machine.

Their aunt came over late afternoon and she, Colin & I played a dice game. We each threw 2 dice, Colin added up each pair and announced who won based on the highest number. He was often able to determine the winner by just looking at the dice, but I had him practice his addition skills and add up each pair.

Week Two, Friday

2006-08-25T17:40:00.000-07:00

Colin finished the Level 2 set of Bob Books by reading Books 11 & 12. We will go through them again next week so he can read them more comfortably, but he is doing extremely well.

Both boys practiced writing their first and last names. Colin practiced upper & lower case letters, Nate wrote with all upper case.

They visited with a friend while I was at the dentist earlier and learned about birds, since they were watching a parakeet. They also played with bubbles, and jumped on the trampoline.

They played with their LeapPads. Worked on reading, phonics and some number skills.

They practiced jumping rope and Colin can do a couple revolutions with the jump rope.

We looked at the time in Kuwait vs. our local time.

Week Two, Thursday

2006-08-24T19:48:00.000-07:00

Atelier's 2nd art lesson was covered today. I set up the portable dvd player on the kitchen island so they could watch the lesson and paint at the same time. It worked pretty well. They learned about primary and secondary colors. The painting provided for inspiration this week was one of Pablo Picasso's "Hands with Bouquet."

Both boys reviewed their flashcards of the letters M - Z and colored in the pictures on each flashcard.

Colin read 2 Bob Books today -- Level 2, books 9 & 10

While at lunch, Colin covered a piece of paper writing rhyming words that he knows. Cat, Hat, Bat, etc. Pop, hop, lop, etc. He also practiced lower case b's and d's since he has a hard time telling the difference.

We spent more time reviewing time -- still working on the hour vs half hour concept.

Week Two, Wednesday

2006-08-23T19:47:00.000-07:00

Today was Colin's day at E. He learned about the 5 senses and had the chance to do a lot of cutting and gluing (which he enjoys.)

Nate practiced letters M - Z using his flashcards.

They both played t-ball in the evening. This was their first game and both boys did great.

Week Two, Tuesday

2006-08-22T12:36:00.000-07:00

We started our morning writing in our nature journals. Nate drew some grass, and an ant, which turned into a tornado. Colin drew a striped bird (a mickey hawk), ants, ant homes and clouds. I attempted to sketch our elephant food plant.

It was wet in the yard from the violent storm we had yesterday, so the boys also enjoyed stomping in the mud and exploring the changed landscape of our yard. Some time was also spent grieving over the play fort, which was literally lifted and turned more than 90 degrees -- ripping off the slide & ladder in the process.

Colin read Level 1, Book 3 from the CHC phonics program.

We started learning about time. We went over concepts of day / night, seconds / minutes / hours. Nate lost interest about this time and went off to play. We continued by reviewing a clock face and learning the minute / hour hands. Some practice of telling time on the hour ensued. We counted by 5's and then practiced telling time on the 1/2 hours. Completed 3 pages in the MCP workbook about time; including writing the numbers on a blank clock face. Looked at the difference between digital and analog clocks and practiced matching time between the 2. After spending almost an hour, I decided it was time to finish up and Colin asked "Aren't we going to do anything trickier??" I promised him I'd try to find him something trickier for tomorrow. LOL

Week Two, Monday

2006-08-21T09:56:00.000-07:00

Today Bo was home, so we planned to have lunch out and visit the Air Museum in Waukesha. Colin went with him to run errands and drop off his paperwork in the morning, and we had a nice lunch at Crackers & Co. We headed over to the museum, to find out that it is open Wed - Sun during the summer months. I wish they had updated their website with that information! The boys were very disappointed, but I think we'll try again on Sunday.

Colin read the Level 1, Book 2 from the CHC phonics program and also read "I Howl, I Growl" on his own. Both boys worked on finding words that started with the letter "A" (what was supposed to be a lead-in to the air museum!)

We read a bunch of other books during the day (I'm updating Library Thing as I read books that aren't already listed there.)

Week One, Saturday

2006-08-19T12:56:00.000-07:00

Colin read the 8th Bob Book with no problem. He wants a new Leapster game, so I've told him that when he reads 25 books from our bookshelves on his own - we'll get him a new Leapster game. Nate will earn a new Leapster game when he successfully can identify each letter of the alphabet on a regular basis.

Colin went through his math workbook and we're on page 80. That seems crazy --- but there was a lot of repetition and mostly review of the numbers 0 - 12 (counting, writing, recognition, etc.) He still needs to work on writing his numbers neatly, but he understands the concepts covered just fine. I did not have him complete 5 pages of counting groups of 0 - 5 items - once it was clear that he could do it, we moved on. We're going to start learning how to tell time next week. The workbook only has about 5 workbook pages about telling time - so I will supplement with free worksheets from the internet and lots of practice. We have a puzzle clock, a couple small plastic clocks and both boys recently got analog watches.

Nate worked on a pre-writing tracing book and also in a book of simple mazes.

Week One, Friday

2006-08-18T15:41:00.000-07:00

Today I had a planning meeting for the mom's group I started at our parish. The boys & I spent the morning cleaning house, then we had 3 other moms and 2 kids come over around noon for lunch and meeting / play.

Everyone left around 3:30, so I popped a Jeff Corwin dvd into the player and the boys are learning about wildlife in Lousiana. We'll call that a day!

We did much more yesterday than I had planned on, so we are caught up for the week I planned (actually ahead a bit considering Colin's reading). I'm still trying to decide if we're going to school on Saturdays and take Sunday & Monday as our weekend to match up with Bo. It also looks like we'll have plans most Fridays between the Sacred Heart group and my mom's group . . . so it might make sense to plan on Fridays as mostly a free / outside activity day.

Week One, Thursday

2006-08-17T14:39:00.000-07:00

Ok, I need to figure out some better headings for these posts . . .

Today we did the first lesson from the dvd art program. The boys were enthralled and really enjoyed the process. They learned about lines, and created patterned caterpillars. We watched the lesson, pausing along the way as necessary, while they worked in the living room. When they were finished, Colin wanted to move on to the next lesson, and was disappointed when I told him we'd do Lesson 2 next Thursday.

Colin easily read Books 4 - 7 from Set 2 set of Bob Books.

Both boys practiced writing the numbers 1 & 2. Colin continued practicing numbers 3-5 and also the upper and lower case letters of A - H. They used lined chalkboards for this practice. Nate works as long as he is interested, and then is free to do something else. This is a pre-K year for him, so there is no pushing involved.

Today, they also created things with playdough, did a lot more drawing (including drawing on very large sheets of packing paper), created a shadow play in the dark laundryroom, played catch outside, and are currently creating a zoo with their small, plastic animals.

Week One, Wednesday

2006-08-16T20:50:00.000-07:00

Colin spent the day at E. He enjoyed his first day and had fun. He's in a class of only 12 other children, which I think is a nice number. He said he didn't have time to finish his lunch - and was starving when I picked him up. I thought ahead and brought him a snack to eat in the car. Wednesdays are going to be extra-busy until October because both boys play t-ball Wednesday nights (as well as Saturday mornings), but I think he'll do fine.

Nate made various items with play-dough, practiced counting to 60, and looked briefly at his letter flashcards. He also came with us to choose which trees we wanted for our yard and learned the names of the trees we purchased.

Tomorrow is probably going to be a slow day.

Week One, Tuesday

2006-08-15T11:39:00.000-07:00

Before Nate woke this morning, Colin and I got through the first 17 pages of his math workbook (very simple pages of patterns, understanding over/under/first/last, etc.) The biggest thing from that work was the page listing 8 white crayons with different color names written on them. After a short protest, he read each color name on his own and colored them in correctly!

We also went through flash cards G - L.

When Nate woke, we went outside to start our nature journals. I attempted to draw a watermelon leaf, Nate sketched some of our flagstone and Colin sketched a few ants. They then narrated their entries to me and I transcribed the info into their journals. They colored a bit on the covers and we put them away until next week.

I took some time and went over Nate's G - L flash cards with him. He is good about knowing the sounds, but doesn't recognize many letters yet. I think these flash cards will be a help to him.

They are now playing with some dinosaur magnets and separating them into herbivore vs. carnivore on 2 cookie sheets. We're headed off to the grocery store and some other errands after lunch.

First Day

2006-08-14T13:18:00.000-07:00

Hmmmmm

Today wasn't that different from any other day over the last few years. The biggest difference was the way I thought about it . . . and how I kept telling the boys "See, this is homeschooling!" LOL!

This morning, Nate was a little miffed that I said we had to wait until Colin woke up to start - so he went and woke Colin up. (It was time for him to wake up, anyway)

We started with the flashcards, and we talked about the letters and the sounds they make, and different words that begin with each letter. Nate got bored after coloring 2 flashcards and wandered off, while Colin was happy to color letters A - F. Colin read the first book in the new phonics program and went off to read it to Nate. Then, I read from God's Love Story.

I told them they could play, and we'd paint after lunch. So, they got their bowls of fossils that they collected yesterday at the T Rex Museum and spent about an hour classifying them into different types, counting how many they had, looking at them through a magnifying glass, and experimenting to see what things the shark teeth would puncture. The only involvement I had was to help them find different things to poke the shark teeth through.

After lunch, I pulled out the painting supplies and they made handprints. They mixed colors and painted pictures for about an hour. Currently, they're in the tub, scrubbing off paint. They're discussing whether a velociraptor claws are sharper or more dangerous than shark teeth. Now they're discussing whether or not a velociraptor could swim - because if it couldn't, then there's no reason to compare their fighting skills.

A very successful first day, if I do say so myself!

Official Start Week!

2006-08-12T23:44:00.000-07:00

We'll be "officially" homeschooling this week. Since Colin's enrichment program starts this week, it made sense for us to start our focused learning this week as well.

I have a pretty good idea of what we'll cover between now and Christmas, but I have only written out the plan for this coming week. I want to see how our days flow, and also ease into this new way of ordering our days.

I have a teacher's plan book, and columns that I've used for planning. Some of the items will be done with both boys, and then I've broken out specific activities for Colin and Nate.

On Monday, I'm going to have them make handprints with paint to kick off the new year. We'll make more handprints at the end of our year to compare. I think I'll also record some basic info - like height / weight. These prints will slide into the front of their work binder.

This week, we'll review and color flashcards for the letters A - R. Colin knows all of his uppercase letters, but still stumbles on a few lower case letters. This is mostly review for him. Nate still needs more practice on all of his letters - so the flashcards will be used much more with him during the next few months. Each flash card has an upper case letter, a lower case letter, and a couple drawings of items that begin with that letter. I am planning to laminate them so they last longer.

During the week, we'll also read from "God's Love Story." It's a book written by the Poor Clare Nuns in Roswell, NM. The CHC curriculum suggests reading 2 pages at a time - but I know my boys will want to hear more than that! I think I will read from it over 3 days, and read 20 pages.

One day during the week, we'll decorate the covers of our new nature journals and make our first entry. It's too hot to make a visit to the Botanical Gardens right now, so we'll study something in our backyard.

Another day during the week, we'll begin the dvd art lessons I purchased at the homeschooling convention. They'll also practice writing the numbers 1 & 2.

For Colin, he will continue learning to read - with the Level 1, Book 1 story from the phonics book from CHC. There's a simple phonics game that goes along with each of these books that we'll also play. He will complete some math workbook pages. The first 20 pages aren't even covered in the CHC curriculum, so I think we'll see how quickly he can go through those and if there is anything he needs extra work on.

Nate will work on some pre-writing skills using a dry-erase book that has various lines on it. He will also work on counting and sorting using a set of plastic animals he will put together. He enjoys simple mazes, so he will work on a few of those as well.

In addition to all the schoolwork, we'll attend mass on Tuesday for the Feast of the Assumption, play t-ball and make a visit to the library.

A full week, but I don't think too full.

enrichment program

2006-08-09T18:29:00.000-07:00

Today we went to "meet the teacher" day at the school that is dedicated to providing enrichment programs to homeschoolers in our school district. They offer a variety of options - providing classes for homeschooled children grades K-8 from 1 - 3 days/week.

We signed Colin up to attend one day/week. We met his teacher today, and looked in the rooms where he'll spend most of his day, and also the rooms for computers, music, PE and lunch. Kids are able to buy hot lunches, or bring lunch from home.

For K, the kids stay with the same teacher throughout the day and she presents different themes. The first theme will be about the 5 senses.

One of the reasons we did this was to allay some of Bo's fears about homeschooling. It allows Colin to be familiar with a traditional school setting, while still allowing me to homeschool him the majority of our time.

Since classes start next week, we have decided to begin our "official" curriculum next week as well. We have a bunch of new school supplies and both boys are eager to start.

Colin will start private piano lessons soon (date has yet to be determined -- need to talk with the teacher some more.) Nate will start karate lessons as soon as I register him. Both are pretty much dedicated to homeschooling families, which is nice.

lapbooking

2006-08-01T19:34:00.000-07:00

I hosted a lapbooking workshop this weekend. Our church was able to let us use one of the classrooms, and I got word out through a couple homeschool lists/groups I belong to. The woman who presented the workshop did a great job explaining what a lapbook is and providing examples of completed lapbooks and showing us how to help our kids create their own. Unfortunately, she doesn't have a website, but she sells materials from Dinah Zike and also Tobin's Lab.

Lapbooks are a way to pull together information learned about a specific topic. Small booklets, graphics and other graphic organizers are used to help children report on and remember different topics learned. It's a tool for review and presentation. Then, all the booklets and other materials are affixed to a file folder -- and a lap book is born!

I'm not sure yet if I'll incorporate lapbooks into our curriculum for this year -- or if I'll wait until the boys are able to read/write on their own. I did get a lot of great ideas, though and I'm sure I'll use them sometime!

You can google lapbooks and see lots of different ideas on how to create one, and lots of great pictures of completed lapbooks. As we incorporate them into our curriculum, I'll be sure to post our efforts.

conference

2006-07-24T17:49:00.000-07:00

On Friday, I attended a home schooling conference downtown.

I wasn't sure what to expect - I knew there would be lots of vendors and there were many workshops set up. I looked at the workshops, and was interested in a few -- but ultimately decided to spend the majority of my time looking at the vendors.

I felt I was pretty set for curriculum for this year. Pre-K and Kindergarten shouldn't be intensive and I'm happy with the CHC curriculum. I did want to get some ideas for the future, though, and also see some things I've only read about on the internet.

The hall was full of vendors. One of the best booths (IMO) was the Arizona State Parks. I didn't know that they had a "junior ranger" program and a prepared curriculum for the Kartchner Caverns. They gave me posters with pictures of the badges the boys can earn at the different state parks, and many brochures. This fits in so well with my planned nature studies for the year!

My other big find was an art program. The program consists of dvd lessons, manual and prints of various fine art pieces. With the love of drawing that both boys have, I knew that this would be a great program to pursue! It was a little pricey, but I decided that it was worth it (after a quick call to DH.) I can't wait to get started on it! Another advantage is that I was recently talking to the woman in charge of art submissions at the state fair and she was telling me how she was going to push for more homeschool participants this year! I know that they will create some wonderful pieces guided by this program.

I steered clear of most of the science tables. There was a lot of emphasis on "explaining the evolution conspiracy" and the like at most of those booths -- and I wasn't interested in getting any information from them.

Rainbow Resources had a large area, and I did pick up some pattern blocks from them because I knew Nate would love them (I was right). I've purchased things from them in the past, and have always been happy with their quality, prices and service. Their catalog is huge -- with very few pictures - so it can be hard to get through. But, if you have an idea of what you want, chances are their price will be hard to beat.

I stopped at a few of the math tables - mainly to have information for future years. I also stopped at the booth for a group that organizes homeschool phys ed and karate classes. The Sacred Heart Educators group that I joined has a dedicated phys ed class once/week through this group, but I think we're going to pass on that this year. I do, however, think I'm going to sign up Nate for the karate class.

Overall, it was a good day. I got some good information, and feel confident that we're headed into a great year!

On my way home, I stopped at Barnes and Noble to show them my homeschooling affidavit and receive my educator's discount card. 20% is a nice discount - and I immediately put it to use purchasing some trail guides for our nature studies.

homeschooling support

2006-06-27T11:31:00.000-07:00

I sent off my application to join the "Sacred Heart Home Educators" group in my area. I know a few other families from my parish that already belong, and they all enjoy the group. They aren't active in the summer, but I wanted to be sure we were ready for the new school year.

I'm excited as we get ready to truly "start" this journey!

ordered curriculum

2006-05-17T14:23:00.000-07:00

I had been holding off on ordering the K curriculum from Catholic Heritage because they had updated the curriculum, but were selling off the older version before offering the new version. It was a $5 savings, but I felt that I wanted the new one (even though I wasn't exactly sure what the differences would be!)

I ordered it today and I am so glad I waited! The new curriculum includes information about preschool, which is perfect for our family (since Nate is 4, and can benefit.) After June 1, the price increases to $26.95. (It's currently $19.95)

It'll arrive while we're in Wisconsin visiting family, but I will be excited to look it over when we return.

sidewalk paint & play dough

2006-05-05T20:14:00.000-07:00

Here are my favorite recipes for sidewalk paint & play dough. They're easy to make, and provide hours of fun!

Sidewalk Paint

1/4 cup cornstarch
1/4 cup cold water
food coloring

Mix together and paint! That's it! Half a box of cornstarch made probably 15 batches? I split each batch in 2 and let each boy color as they want in small plastic applesauce cups. The paint rinses off easily with water.

Play Dough

1 cup flour
1/2 cup salt
1 small packet unsweetened drink mix (Kool-aid or generic)
3 Tbsp. oil
1 cup boiling water

Combine dry ingredients. Add oil. Add boiling water. Stir well. Knead ingredients until soft dough forms. Store dough in air tight container or zip-lock bag. This dough is non-edible (harmless, but tastes awful); however, it smells great.

In the past, I've also made the dough with vanilla extract, almond extract, 1/2 cup flour and 1/2 cup cocoa, peppermint extract, lavendar oil . . . the list goes on & on.

summer plans

2006-04-02T22:16:00.000-07:00

I know I haven't updated since January. Once I decided we were definitely homeschooling, and I got DH on board -- I haven't done much. I see no reason to rush into anything.

I did look at quite a few curriculums, and have (pretty much) decided on Catholic Heritage for Kindergarten. I looked at Seton and Mother of Divine Grace, as well as a slew of others - but I think for Kindergarten I'm happy with CHC.

The boys have been attending a preschool program at the Desert Botanical Gardens one day a week since October, and we'll continue doing that until early May. They enjoy the program immensely and have learned quite a bit about the desert, animals and weather. We've been spoiled that the classes have been small so far this year (6-8 students), but the session that just started is full with 15 students! I'm not sure if Nate will do this again in the fall or not -- I'm going to wait and see how the summer goes, and what other activities may turn up. Colin will be too old for the program this fall.

Colin has started reading the first set of BOB books. He was very excited about it and wanted to read more than one a day - but was getting himself overworked and overwraught, so I put an end to that. One a day is our limit, no more than 3 new books in a row, and at least 2 days/week with none. I'd like to say it's at his own pace, but I have to admit that I'm holding him back a bit because he is so intense.

We still do a lot of reading out loud. Currently, we're reading "Farmer Boy" by Laura Ingalls Wilder and the boys are amazed at how much more food Almanzo & his family have in comparison to the books we've read about Laura & Mary.

But, back to the title of this post!

We'll be visiting family in Wisconsin in late May for the first time since Colin was an infant. DH won't be able to come, but the boys & I are looking forward to fun couple of weeks hanging with Grandma & Grandpa!

In mid-June, Colin will be attending a week-long summer camp at the zoo. It's 4 hours each day, and he'll be learning about the baby animals at the zoo among other things. I think he'll have a blast! Nate is too young this year, but next year he'll be old enough to attend as well.

As soon as that ends, Monday camp starts at the Mesa Southwest Museum. Each Monday afternoon for 5 weeks, both boys will attend and learn about a different topic. The topics are: Rocks, Bugs, Desert Dwellers, Fascinating Fossils and Old Fashioned Fun. When those 5 weeks end, there is a 3 day dinosaur camp that both boys will attend as well. Colin was thrilled to hear that they will have the chance to meet a real paleontologist!

The boys will both take swimming lessons this summer as well - but I'm not sure which sessions they'll be in yet. I'm still waiting for the summer schedule to come out. Colin loves being in the water, and throws himself in even now when the water is a bit chilly. Nate has always been a bit hesitant in the pool, and he is waiting for the pool to warm up before he is willing to spend much time in it! I think we'll shoot for lessons in the middle of the summer, when we'll want to be spending quite a bit of time in the water anyway.

When dinosaur camp ends, it's early August! School will be starting soon! Colin will be attending an enrichment program through the school system one day a week. We're looking at it as another chance for him to socialize and work on group dynamics. It also gives Nate some one - on - one time which he has never really had.

beginning

2006-01-06T22:15:00.000-08:00

I've thought about homeschooling for years. I made a concerted effort to do a lot of research and planning when Colin was a toddler and Nate a newborn - and then life got busy and I read "Einstein didn't play with flashcards" and decided to hold off any decisions until we needed to.

Well, here we are and Colin is almost old enough for kindergarten. Our state's cutoff is September, so there was no rush to make a decision this year. In the fall, he'll be ready to start..

I started this blog to keep track of my research, and will continue it as we begin formal homeschooling next year.