Cottage homeschool

Thanksgiving ideas for everybody

2011-11-17T14:55:00.000-08:00

I look forward to Thanksgiving. And especially on implementing all the fun ideas I found from THIS website. If you are looking for great ideas then this is the place to go!

Giveaway.

2011-09-16T18:53:00.000-07:00

Here's an awesome giveaway you might want enter. Click Here to enter. Royal Daughter's of a king is giving away several prizes!

Mighty Works of God series

2011-07-30T15:23:00.000-07:00

"We will not hide them from their children, shewing to the generation to come the praises to the Lord, and his strength, and his wonderful works that he hath done....That they might set their hope in God, and not forget the works of God, but keep his commandments." Psalm 4,7

The Might Works of God Series was written for the home and school, that the boys and girls of the 21st century might remember the mighty works of God in bringing forth this nation. Many have learned to recognize His hand in the liberty which we know in America, others have forgotten, and some have denied. This series for children is designed to help us remember.

I love these books for teaching history to children. Straight forward and in keeping with the still immature minds of the younger set. It is all we use to teach American History to our younger kids. And if you have 2 or 3 kids near the same age this still will work very well. The Christian self government that is taught throughout the series is what I as a parent admire the most. Each of us, especially our children need to learn how to govern our own hearts through the teachings of Jesus Christ. These series really focus on that fact through each lesson. The stories are very well written and full of factual information about our country.

Getting Started in Homeschooling (free e-book) – Simply Charlotte Mason

2011-04-19T15:15:00.001-07:00

Getting Started in Homeschooling (free e-book) – Simply Charlotte Mason

Education Is (free e-book) – Simply Charlotte Mason

2011-04-19T15:15:00.000-07:00

Education Is (free e-book) – Simply Charlotte Mason

Smooth and Easy Days (free e-book) – Simply Charlotte Mason

2011-04-19T15:12:00.000-07:00

Smooth and Easy Days (free e-book) – Simply Charlotte Mason

Getting Started With Latin

2011-04-15T07:58:00.000-07:00

We love studying latin around our house. It has helped in so many ways with our reading and comprehension. And sometimes just in following a conversation. Here is a wonderful way to begin your latin journey.

Getting Started With Latin

Statistics on public school vs homeschool

2011-02-25T07:51:00.000-08:00

It will come as no surprise to homeschooling families that the bulk of the evidence collected over the past decade or more has shown that home educated children typically fare better than their public schooled peers of academic achievement tests. According to a study of 5,402 homeschool students from 1,657 families done in 1997, titled "Strengths of Their Own: Home Schoolers Across America," homeschooled students consistently outperformed public school peers by an average of 30-37 percentile points in all academic subjects.

A wonderful nature study guide/book

2011-01-05T21:42:00.000-08:00

I just ran across this resource and I'm thinking I will go with it. I need so much help in this area of homeschooling and this seems to fit the bill perfectly. Here is a brief description.

Nature Study Brought to Life: A Nature Walk With Aunt Bessie by Sandi Queen, Stories by B. E. Wright
This one-year curriculum for elementary ages has everything you need to give your child a Charlotte Mason style education in science and nature study. Daily lessons build upon each week's detailed nature story from Aunt Bessie, who shares with her niece and nephew all about the marvels of God's creation. Learn about insects, birds, butterflies and moths, worms, wasps, and all sorts of creatures through the fun, short lessons, which vary from day to day, giving your child the variety of hands-on lessons, read alouds, researching, writing, coloring, nature sketching, and more! Consumable. 180 daily lessons for any child who is reading on his own, up through about 6th grade level. Go HERE for more information.

Pictures in Cursive

2010-12-29T20:21:00.000-08:00

I came across this remarkable cursive writing program. My children normally will do a cursive writing program for up to 5 years depending on how quickly they catch on to my standards!! I am excited to begin using this with a few of my children. It is called Pictures in Cursive by Queens Homeschool. They come complete with beautiful photos too so children not only practice their penmanship but also get to preview some great art. There are 7 levels available. HERE is where you can get more information on it.

Winter science activities

2010-12-29T18:03:00.000-08:00

Up here in WI we get plenty of cold weather. If you have your share try some of these winter fun activities with your family.

1. The Mpemba Effect was discovered in 1969 by a student. See if you can name the results of this experiment.

2 plastic containers of the same size

1 C. hot water

1 C. cold water

A freezer or a very cold day

Pour hot water into one container and cold water into another. Make sure you don't mix up the containers. Place containers in the freezer or outside to freeze. Check on them often to see which on freezes first. According to your results: what do you think the Mpemba Effect is?

Answer: The Mpemba Effect is a phenomenon where hot water freezes faster than cold.

What happens when water freezes?

1. 1 coffee can with a lid

2. 1 bottle cap

3. 3 pencils

4. 2 heavy rubberbands

5. duct tape

Fill the can with full with water and put the lid on. Tape the 2 pencils on each side of the bottom of the can. Place the bottle cap in the center on top of the lid. Take the 3rd pencil and place it on the bottle cap. Take one rubber band and place it around all 3 pencils on one side of the can forming a triangle with the rubber band. Do the same with the rubber band on the other side of the can. Make sure the top pencil can't move and place your can in the freezer or outside overnight. Note what happened. Did the water expand or contract when it freezes.

Freezing Fizzie

1 bottle lemon lime soda

1 large bowl of ice large enough to bury the soda bottle

water

several T. of salt

thermometer (optional)

Cover the ice in the bowl about halfway with water. Sprinkle salt over the ice. Bury the soda bottle in the ice. Allow it to stay buried for 30 minutes. It should not freeze. After the 30 minutes remove the bottle from the ice and open the bottle. What happened? It should have become slushy. Why did it get slushy?

Answer: The carbon dioxide dissolved into the soda and reduced the freezing point. And when you opened the soda you released some of the carbon dioxide. Thus, the freezing point rose again. The liquid inside was already below that freezing point.

Have fun and enjoy the cold weather!

Timeline Answers and Ideas

2010-11-10T11:29:00.000-08:00

I'm not sure why I've always struggled with pulling together a timeline. Slowly I am going to get my act together and come out on top. If you are struggling too I found a great place to find some ideas, directions, and suggestion. Go HERE to read more.

A Well Rounded Old Fashioned Education

2010-11-06T10:56:00.000-07:00

- The EES cover every topic. Many of the series are still household names almost a hundred years after they ceased being published. The most famous and popular of these series are the McGuffey's Readers and Ray's Arithmetics, but there were many other extraordinary series in the EES such as Pinneo's Grammars, Thalheimer's Histories and Norton's Sciences that have been used by countless students.

- The books provided Americans with a brand of textbook they could trust, the EES. The authors commissioned to do the various line of textbooks were at the top of their fields. No expenses were spared in preparing these incredible textbooks.Original art was commissioned for them, and they were refined and honed through multiple revisions over decades. As an added bonus, all of the books were written by Christian authors whose values were part of the backbone of early America. To read more go HERE

Huge help for ambleside users

2010-10-20T11:59:00.000-07:00

Here is a wonderful sorting website that makes using ambleside online just that much easier. I find it to be invaluable. Hope it helps you too. Click on the link below.

YOUR KEY TO THE RESOURCES FOR THE BEST CHILDREN'S BOOKS

Lessons At Blackberry Inn

2010-09-13T16:48:00.000-07:00

I just recently finished this charming book by Karen Andreola. She has such a way of sharing Charlotte Mason's ideas and methods. Mostly I try to find my reading books at the library but I've read all of Karen's books so I knew I could trust it would be a great read so I bought. It's just one I had to have on my shelf along with Pocketfull of Pinecones, Beautiful Girlhood, and A Charlotte Mason Companion. Very fun read! Click HERE to visit Karen's blog! Moments with Mother Culture

Sit yourself down for a spell, and restore your soul! Infused with Charlotte Mason's gentle art of learning, this calming book follows Carol, a 1930s homemaker, as she adjusts to her first year living at Blackberry Inn. Refresh yourself as you drop into her idyllic world of canning, cleaning, homeschooling, baking, and other scenes of faith, hope, hospitality, love, and the lost art of homemaking! Written as a sequel to Pocketful of Pinecones, Lessons at Blackberry Inn may also be read as a stand-alone novel. A delightful treat for the homeschool mother. 224 pages, softcover.

An online museum of sorts!!

2010-08-23T09:49:00.000-07:00

HERE is another wonderful site for your picture studies or if you simply love to look at art.

Famous Paintings volume 1 and 2

2010-08-10T20:52:00.001-07:00

I'm so glad I found this website. It will go perfect with art study. HERE is the link to a great place to find some great photos.

If you love to take or give quizes

2010-07-22T09:02:00.000-07:00

Then this site is perfect. Quizlet has what you are looking for and much more. Go HERE to visit.

A Year With Birds

2010-07-20T19:45:00.000-07:00

Here's another great site if you love birds. Some wonderful poems that would be great for nature book entries. Click HERE to view the contents.

Burgess Bird Book Resources

2010-07-20T07:57:00.000-07:00

Here is a great link if you are studying the Burgess Bird Book or will be studying it. It has lots of great links and ideas to go along with the book. Click HERE to visit!

Yesterday's Classics

2010-07-08T09:58:00.001-07:00

This is a great site to find all those "lost" books that children love. Many living book titles for all subjects are listed here plus they are very reasonable too which makes it even more tempting.

Lost Classics Books catalog

Kids Zone

2010-07-08T09:51:00.001-07:00

This is a really fun site for your kids. If you have young readers and they love to test their skills in a fun way then this is the place. We don't use it as often as I like because I forget about it and plus my children are not on the computer much. I think that if I blog about it then maybe I'll use it more often!! Click HERE to visit the Kids Zone!

Nature Coloring books

2010-07-08T09:40:00.000-07:00

Here are some great nature coloring books to add to your children's (or yours) nature journals. My children love to color and we have never been disappointed with Dover books. They are both for learning and coloring. Click HERE to check them out.

When Children Love to Learn

2010-06-29T15:16:00.001-07:00

I ran across this book at a used book sale a few weeks ago!! Sadly, I wasn't able to purchase it so began a search online to see if I could round one up for cheap!! Fortunately, I found it for the best price of all. Free-if I want to read from the computer! Which I intend to do, a few pages at a time. So far I have really enjoyed it and wanted to pass along the info. You can read it HERE online.

Memoria Press Introduces.....

2010-05-06T09:00:00.000-07:00

Memoria Press has always been a favorite of mine. And now they are making my curriculum choices tough with all these new items they just created. Wonderful new curriculum ideas for kindergarten.

Memoria Press

Classical Kindergarten Read-Alouds

2010-05-06T08:50:00.001-07:00

Classical Kindergarten Supplemental Read-Aloud Program
Reading, Writing, and Arithmetic: The best preparation for a Classical Education

A program that will teach your child everything from history and holidays to science and interesting new words and places. After extensive reading and research, each book was selected by Leigh Lowe as one of her top thirty favorites for the Kindergarten years.
Literature and poetry are fundamental to a strong classical education. Our supplemental reading program will help your child develop a taste for quality literature from an early age. And introducing poetry to young children helps them maintain an interest in poetry as they grow. Children delight in listening to the rhyme and wordplay of poetry. Reading aloud to your children is one of the best gifts you can give them. And the books we have chosen are beautiful in their art and prose. It is never too early to begin building your child’s library of beautiful books. Go here for more.

For Everything Charlotte Mason

2010-05-06T08:39:00.000-07:00

If you are already a Charlotte Mason fan then you lost likely know all about this site. I spent some time over there last night and I am amazed at the amount of information there. If you have a bit of time go check it out.

Simply Charlotte Mason

Queen's Homeschool Curriculum

2010-05-04T22:36:00.000-07:00

Another great in the line of Charlotte Mason and the gentle art learning. I've checked around and done some research as far as reviews go and it seems to be a good choice for CM fans. I just received their Language Lessons for Little Ones in the mail and look forward to doing it. There are several levels of the language lessons to choose from. Click on the links below to read more about them.

Language Lessons for Little Ones

Queen Easy Packs

Queen Homeschool Main Page

Easy Homeschooling Techniques

2010-04-26T16:01:00.000-07:00

Easy Homeschooling Techniques

This is an interesting book I just finished reading. Your local library probably has a copy. That's where I got mine. But it is well worth the read whether you are new to homeschooling or not.

This book covers the following:

Lay a good foundation

Start up the easy way

Plan for success

Set goals you will meet

Teach all subjects

Choose literature

Keep high school credits

Train homemaking skills

Guide into careers

Make order in your home

And much more!

Extras!

course of study

booklists

planner form

resources

index

Homeschool Treasures

2010-04-20T17:05:00.001-07:00

Thankfully, these treasures have been around long enough for me to still make good use of them in our homeschool. If you are new to homeschooling, or not a homeschooler, but happen to be a parent then you will benefit from having these books within easy reach. If you look closely you can tell mine have been used often! And will continue to be for a while. Now, if you are a very eager reader, something with a lot of meat, and interested in the education and training of your children might I suggest reading The Original Charlotte Mason Series found online HERE.

Answers in Genesis Pre-school curriculum

2010-04-14T21:36:00.000-07:00

I received Answers in Genesis catalog the other day and I found this pre-school curriculum. I've never really used anything formal with my pre-schoolers but this looks really neat. My Mary is 4 and I am thinking about looking into this for her. I look forward to reading reviews on it!

You can read about it HERE.

Here is what their website says about it.

Regardless of how your kids are going to be educated—public, private, or home school—one thing that all children have in common is the need to learn. What better place to begin, than at the beginning!

This complete multi-subject curriculum for preschoolers and very early readers includes 180 fun, engaging, hands-on lessons that introduce children to the Bible, social studies, language arts, math, phonics, and science. Like other preschool curricula, Answers for Preschoolersincludes lots of fun activities, coloring pages, easy teacher-friendly ideas, and full-color illustrations galore. But unlike other preschool curricula, this one also affirms the truth of the Bible and uses Genesis as the basis to help precious children know God’s love while exploring health & safety, music, arts & crafts, and even physical education activities.

Designed to make the teacher’s job easy, and the student’s job fun, this foundational curriculum is flexible and can be adapted to any schedule. Order Answers for Preschoolers today and start your children’s education on a solid biblical foundation. It’s never too early to teach your children truth!

The Mozart Effect for Children

2010-03-24T13:24:00.000-07:00

I've been reading this book that came highly recommend to me by my daughter in law Heather and wow, is it ever informative! I'm not very far in it yet but found it so interesting I just had to share! Without doubt, I've already ordered some Mozart cd's from the library and have been playing them everyday. I found several specifically geared for children! Here is an excerpt from the inside cover.

In The Mozart Effect for Children, author Don Campbell shows that music is the perfect tool to improve children's language, movement, and emotional skills at home, school, and play. He presents a wealth of dynamic, inventive ways for parents and teachers to invigorate a child's imagination with music, sounds, and songs, supplying simple exercises and fun activities tailored for each age group and stage of development, from prenatal through age the. Campbell offers ideas and exercises to bond with their newborns to tips on fostering good study habits and stress reduction for elementary school students.

Living Books Curriculum

2010-03-22T19:36:00.000-07:00

I found this wonderful website that offers much in the area of homeschooling. Especially leaning toward Charlotte Mason. I very much encourage you to check it out when you have some time. Living Books Curriculum

Home Sweet Homeschool

2010-03-13T13:09:00.000-08:00

If you want a well rounded, informative, easy to read website that tells all. Go pay a visit to Home Sweet Homeschool. You won't be sorry.

PIoneer Woman's Review of Prima Latina

2010-02-18T10:01:00.000-08:00

To read her review click HERE. To read more of Memoria Press Latin click HERE.

Childress Manor Academy

2010-02-15T16:15:00.000-08:00

I just came across this blog that I think will be a great asset to our homeschooling. I follow her other blog and for some reason I missed this one. But it's well worth taking a look at. Click HERE to visit Childress Manor Academy

Lapbook and Unit Studies

2010-02-13T11:33:00.000-08:00

Here is a nifty little website that has lots of exciting materials for lapbooks and unit studies for many different subjects. You should take a minute and check out A Journey Through Learning to see for yourself.

My First Little House Books

2010-02-11T14:19:00.000-08:00

These are the funnest little books. We've had them for some time now and my little girls love them. The pictures are so precious and they sit for the longest time after reading a page just looking at them!! Even though some of the girls have read the original stories they still love these. I'm sure they can be found at your local library or they can be purchased HERE.

Progressive Phonics-Free

2010-02-04T09:16:00.001-08:00

I ran across this nifty little website earlier today. Everything is free and you can read online or print them. Check it out at Progressive Phonics.

Choice Books for 4-5 Year Olds

2010-01-21T12:33:00.000-08:00

Jesse Bear, What Will You Wear? by N.W. Carlstrom
The Little Rabbit by Judi Dunn
Ask Mr. Bear by Marjorie Flack
Blueberries For Sal by Robert McCloskey
Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown
The Big Green Pocketbook by Candice Ransom
The Runaway Bunny by Margaret Wise Brown
The Carrot Seed by Ruth Krauss
The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats
Play With Me by Marie Hall Ets
Prayer for a Child by Rachel Field
Angus Lost by Marjorie Flack
Katy No-Pocket by Emmy Payne
We're Going On a Bear Hunt by Michael Rosen
Corduroy by Don Freeman
If Jesus Came to My House by Joan Gale Thomas
Caps For Sale: A Tale of a Peddler by Esphr Slobodkina

My children love these stories. The titles are taken from Jane Claire Lambert who created Before Five in a Row. I have used the guide in the past and enjoyed but these days I simply just read them to the little ones. If you choose to use the guide you can read more about it HERE.

Science by Memorizing!!

2010-01-19T17:42:00.000-08:00

I love Lyrical Life Science. We used it years ago and I am thinking about using them again. I had the cassette versions and as we all know that won't work these days!!! They are a fabulous way to learn about science. Read more about them HERE.

Nearly Free Homeschooling

2010-01-19T16:07:00.000-08:00

This has tons of wonderful things you can use. And nearly free. Click HERE to check it out.

Free Grammar Online

2010-01-14T16:50:00.000-08:00

A great new site for grammar. And for free. Check it out HERE.

Commonplace Books

2010-01-04T16:04:00.000-08:00

Historically commonplacing has played an important role in education, and it has served as a vital tool of erudition.

I love learning like this. My children call it notebooking too. But it's all the same basically. Writing down each day those things that have been learned through their homeschooling efforts. We have been doing this for years and my collection of their work is really beginning to grow. To learn more about commonplace books go HERE.

A Lifestyle Education through Discipleship

2009-10-26T11:59:00.000-07:00

Would you agree that you want your children to have knowledge, to know things--including things like how to read, write, and compute? Would you agree that you want your children to be wise, to make proper decisions and act on them appropriately in life?

"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding." And the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction. Proverbs 9:10 and 1:7 Wisdom is the most important thing we are to seek. Wisdom is the principle thing. Therefore get wisdom and with all your getting get understanding.

If you agree to the words above so eloquently written by my friend Lisa over at Me And My House then you will love her newest resource creatively called Freedom and Simplicity on R Road to Biblical Wisdom. You can read more about it HERE on her website. She goes on to say "true learning is a process of gaining wisdom, understanding and knowledge. This process of learning is really several processes, both internal and external, that work together as we receive new ideas and information, reflect upon them, reason through them Biblically, integrate them into our lives and thought processes, and then produce our own individual output based upon them. Here is a glimpse of the table of contents and some of the wonderful and creative methods she uses in her homeschool as she teaches her family of ten children. As you will see, she has covered many topics and given great ideas on how to implement them.

Chapter 3 ~

Recitation

Copywork

Narration

Learning Maps

Note-taking

Timelines

And the wealth of knowledge doesn't end there. In chapter 5 she covers the following--

Book of Remembrance Journals and other Formats

Essays and Other Compositions

Learning Maps and Other Graphics

Journaling Pages

Book of Remembrance Journal Organization

Journals-Worthy, But Not the Key Goal

I have been homeschooling now for 23 years and Lisa's work was an eye opener for me. I can imagine what great help it would be for someone just beginning the journey of educating their families at home. Thanks Lisa.

Lisa has written many such guides leaning on her many years of raising, feeding, and homeschooling her large family. To view her resources that she offers visit her website by clicking HERE.

Shakespeare Anyone??

2009-10-24T10:00:00.000-07:00

Here is a wonderful animated video page I found for watching some of Shakespeare's plays. I just found it though and have not watched any but will do so later today. Looks very interesting. Here is the link.

Shakespeare's Animated Video's

Now This is a Find-Great for Boys

2009-10-18T17:43:00.000-07:00

If you have boys between the ages of 8-14 or so here is THE site for them. My boys love Tom Swift and I came across a site that has the whole collection online for FREE. Here is the link:

Tom Swift complete collection online

Don't Ask Me Why I Haven't Listed This Here Yet

2009-10-18T14:10:00.000-07:00

But it just occurred to me today that I did not have a link to one of the very best online websites for downloading free books. Here is the link to what I think is the largest online free books site on the web.

Project Gutenberg

Is Spelling Really Necessary?

2009-06-25T15:59:00.000-07:00

I came across these little gems today after reading a post on....Do we really need spelling? I checked out the link and this is what I found. Looks like something that is worth checking out. You can read more about it HERE.

Draw and Write Through History

2009-06-24T11:51:00.000-07:00

I just found this on another blog and thought it looked really good. I do believe I will have to give it a try. My younger children love to draw about everything they learn and this looks like a perfect fit to learn history. HERE is a link to read more.

Free Phonics Lessons

2009-06-07T19:56:00.000-07:00

I came across this really cool site today from The Well Trained Mind forums. I thought I would post it here in case it may benefit someone. Totally worth the time to look into it.

Phonics Lessons

Free phonics lessons in QuickTime movie format.

These lessons are offered for free out of love for Jesus Christ.

They are designed to improve reading and spelling abilities for

adults and children in the 2nd. grade and older.

Various Religious Homeschool Links Added

2009-06-03T11:44:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I made a post but my sidebar is continuing to grow despite that. Quite often I come across something or a wonderful homeschool link has been brought to my attention through an email or a homeschool group I am on and I generally will add it to my sidebar. I just added a section for various religions such as LDS, Catholic, and Non-Denominational homeschool helps. Like the rest of my blog, I have a feeling there will be many more things to post in this section as well.

Girlhood Home Companion

2009-04-26T15:43:00.001-07:00

The Girlhood Home Companion is a beautiful 4-color companion guide, magazine, and character study all rolled into one publication. The Girlhood encourages young ladies (ages 10-18) to enjoy their precious girlhood years while walking closely with the Lord and developing a deeper relationship with Him. Filled with the wisdom of writers from the past and present, each edition features encouraging articles and stories that center on one character quality per issue. Each theme is explored in-depth through editorials, articles, and stories that will minister to the heart of your daughter, while teaching her the practical skills of homemaking, cooking, crafts, sewing and other girlhood pastimes.

Originally produced from 1998 to 2001 and back by popular demand, there is nothing so lovingly designed with the heart of a Christian girl in mind as The Girlhood Home Companion. Ageless, it continues to inspire daughters, mothers, and grandmothers of all ages.

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My little girls love this magazine. We are anxiously awaiting our next copy of it in the mail. If you have daughters who love to bake, have tea parties, loves babies, etc. then you should check out this magazine. We are faithful subscribers to it. To read more go HERE

Montessori Manual-Download for Free

2009-04-22T12:01:00.000-07:00

Something is Wrong With Modern Education

One of the most distinguishing features of twentieth-century life is the deep rooted, widespread dissatifaction of the way children are being educated.

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This is the first sentence taken from the Montessori Manual. This manual and many more like it are available for free download HERE. It is an awesome read from what I have found so far over the couple of weeks I have been reading it.

Portraits of American Girlhood

2009-04-18T13:33:00.001-07:00

Portraits of American Girlhood is a 250+ page unit study guide that uses the American Girl historical book series by Pleasant Company. (Please see disclaimer.) The study is designed to last either one traditional 36-week school schedule using six of the seven units included, or a year-round 42-week schedule using all seven units. The study guide is written from a Christian/creationist perspective. All essential books needed are usually available at the library and major book chains.

The guide is for grades 2-5, but can easily be adapted for older students using the enrichment activities at the back of each chapter. It comes with a FREE CD ROM that contains over 70 worksheets, maps and handouts for you to print out from your own computer. Also included are adaptation ideas for kids with special needs, how to include boys in the study, and lots of tips and tricks to help you along the way. More information HERE.

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I have not personally done this study yet. I have taken quite some time reviewing it and believe that in the near future I most likely will do it with my girls. HERE is a link to The Old Schoolhouse for a more in depth review.

American Girls Series

2009-04-18T13:09:00.001-07:00

What girl (or mom) doesn't love the American Girl Books. My girls have read them all and loved each and every one. I am sure my next 5 girls will love them as much as the older ones have. And they learn lots about history as well. For more info. go HERE

100 Top Picks

2009-04-18T13:01:00.000-07:00

Wondering where to begin. Here is an awesome every homeschool should not be without. Cathy Duffy as always has loads of information in this thick book. Check it out HERE.

Great World HIstory Curriculum

2009-04-18T12:52:00.000-07:00

This is a very good World History Curriculum. We have used this with 3 of our children so far and they learned a lot. These books by Genevieve Foster I highly recommend. More information HERE.

Beacons of Truth

2009-04-17T21:25:00.001-07:00

This site is so very cool. It has broken down reading list according to ages. Very nicely laid out and full of book titles for everyone. Wonderful list to have on hand. Go HERE for more information.

Back to the Best

2009-04-14T08:41:00.000-07:00

Here is a wonderful website offering all kinds of information on nutrition. A family owned and operated farm and organic store with much to offer. Dan and Paula Seigmann run and operate this farm, website, and organic store with their 8 homeschooled children. Not only is "the farm" a wonderful place to visit in person but also online as there is so much to learn. Here is their website address. Welcome to Best Nutrition

Products for Your Family

2009-04-14T08:25:00.000-07:00

Here is a wonderful site if you are into organic food and organic products for your home and family. I highly endorse everything found on this website. My good friends Becky and Mike own this site and have created this wonderful home business that blesses families. Stop by and learn more about your families health and environment. You won't be disappointed at all. Here is the link. Burgie's Organics

Nourishing Traditions

2009-04-11T14:45:00.001-07:00

This well-researched, thought-provoking guide to traditional foods contains a startling message: Animal fats and cholesterol are not villains but vital factors in the diet, necessary for normal growth, proper function of the brain and nervous system, protection from disease and optimum energy levels. Sally Fallon dispels the myths of the current low-fat fad in this practical, entertaining guide to a can-do diet that is both nutritious and delicious.

Topics include the health benefits of traditional fats and oils (including butter and coconut oil); dangers of vegetarianism; problems with modern soy foods; health benefits of sauces and gravies; proper preparation of whole grain products; pros and cons of milk consumption; easy-to-prepare enzyme enriched condiments and beverages; and appropriate diets for babies and children.

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This is one of my absolute favorites. This book is fabulous and the information it contains is bounteous. We have learned so very much and made so many improvements in our family just from utilizing the knowledge in this book. Highly recommended. More HERE.

More With Less

2009-04-11T14:39:00.001-07:00

Spend less on your groceries, improve the nutritional value of your meals, and consume less of the world's limited food resources using this best-selling classic. These health-conscious recipes-from breakfast to dessert, leftovers to preserves-emphasize whole grains and protein substitutes, cooking from scratch, and wasting as little as possible.

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I am on my 3rd copy of this cookbook. Wow, it is great. If you are looking to lesson your grocery bill then this is the way to do. Plus you would be eating so healthy. There is a wealth of information in it on much more than cooking and recipes. For more go HERE

Encyclopedia of Country Living

2009-04-11T14:32:00.001-07:00

Dreaming of moving "back to the land"---or creating a more sustainable lifestyle right where you are? Emery's basic guide to gardens and goats reads like a very long letter to old friends. She shares how to---and how not to---buy land, can peaches, bake bread, sell berries, build chicken coops, keep bees, and more. Includes lists of books, magazines, and suppliers for every subject imaginable. 858 pages, softcover from Sasquatch Books.

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Now this is a great resource. No it isn't for homeschool-although it could be as you learn tons-but it speaks for itself in the above description. I love it. Read more HERE

Great History Resources

2009-04-10T19:14:00.001-07:00

I just found this list today. It looks GREAT. I can't wait to take the time to really explore it. It is full of book titles to supplement your history studies. Both American History and World. Check it out HERE

Historic Boyhood

2009-04-10T12:32:00.001-07:00

If you have a boy that can't get enough American History then you need to visit this link. But not only will your boys get much from these resources but the entire family will as well.

Historic Boyhood

Chivalrous Boyhood

2009-04-10T12:27:00.001-07:00

A Great Link for Chivalrous Boyhood.

Why Christian Manhood Must Prevail

2009-04-10T12:20:00.001-07:00

How can we disciple our sons to be the true heirs of Christendom? In this powerful message, Doug Phillips calls the men and boys of our generation back to the lost legacy of Christian manhood, urging them to recover the old chivalric code that was once a hallmark of Western culture. Christian manhood, he maintains, must be recaptured or else our civilization will be destroyed. Yet there is hope: If we raise our sons to preserve, protect, and promote the ancient doctrine of “women and children first,” they can become “the repairer of the breach” and lead the West to greatness once again.

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My husband and one of our son's have listened to this. Here is dad: This is a wonderful tool for our boys. I highly suggest that you take the time to listen to this with your sons. I would recommend they be at least 14 or so in order to gain a full understanding. Here is a link for more HERE

Boys Will Be Boys

2009-04-10T12:12:00.000-07:00

Are your little boys ALL BOYS and long to be MEN. Here are some wonderful resources to encourage your boys to do just that. My boys love, love, love the American Boyhood Collection. Browse this link and the sidebar for wonderful picks for your young men. Many things to choose from. THE ALL AMERICAN BOY'S ADVENTURE CATALOG

Elsie Dinsmore

2009-04-10T12:02:00.001-07:00

In the nineteenth century, millions of readers learned the meaning of godly womanhood from a little girl named Elsie. Her commitment to principle in the midst of adversity and her passionate love for Jesus Christ were the theme of twenty-eight volumes spanning her life. These are the original twelve volumes presented just as a young lady would have found them one hundred years ago. Over the last several years, I have heard hundreds of reports from homeschoolers and Christian families about the blessings these books have been in their lives. Elsie raises the standard of godly womanhood to new heights. Feminists will not be happy with Elsie. She is a God-honoring young woman who strives to solve problems while working through biblical authority structures. By Martha Finley. Twelve hardback books. Nearly 4,000 pgs. of reading.

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We have almost all of these and they are great reads. My younger girls are not quite ready for them but we'll get there soon. Really, really good. For more info go HERE

From a Daughter to a Mother

2009-04-10T11:55:00.000-07:00

Childhood holds it promises, womanhood its fulfillments, and youth, those golden days of girlhood, the transition. This change is almost too great for us to comprehend. We marvel when we see the tiny, green bud develop into a mature rose of brilliant hue; how much more wonderful is the change from the immaturities of childhood to the beauty and grace of young womanhood! We see this miracle performed before us continually, yet we never cease to wonder at the sweetness, charm, and beauty of every woman newly budded forth. Mabel Hale-To read more go HERE

Here is are a couple of links to help aid in this transformation from girlhood to motherhood. What a wonderful time in a little girls' life.

Just Like Mama

A Girl's Life

Lovely Resources for Training Biblical Daughters

2009-04-10T11:35:00.000-07:00

A lack of burning enthusiasm in the hearts of young women for their role is a sad thing. The number of women who are turning their hearts to their fathers, families and homes is exciting. And yet many of these girls lack zeal as they do their duty. Some are apologetic and timid about dressing femininely and modestly, because “public opinion is so strong.” Some look on sadly and a bit martyrishly as their friends go off to “do exciting things,” while they themselves remain with their families. Some feel they are missing out on excitement because they have chosen God’s design for womanhood over the glitzy allure of feminism or the crushing tyranny of social expectations. Elizabeth Botkin

Here is a link to some wonderful resources in the training up of our young daughters. We own most of what is on this page and have viewed the others at a sale. Eventually I hope to utilize most of it. My older girls read So Much More, Visionary Daughters, Raising Maidens of Virtue and others plus we have listened to some of the tapes. Really, really good biblical foundations for girls. Here is the link.

Blue Back Speller & New-England Primer

2009-04-10T11:27:00.001-07:00

Teach your children from two of the most influential Christian textbooks in history — The Original Blue Back Speller and The New-England Primer. Authentic, cloth-bound reproductions from Vision Forum.

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Both of these are wonderful little gems. We use them for copy work and memory work. The speller is awesome and laid out is an easy to use format. Great resource to have in your home. Go HERE for more on these two books.

Princess Adelina

2009-04-10T11:22:00.000-07:00

From eighth-century Germany comes the stirring tale of Princess Adelina, a virtuous young woman determined to fulfill God’s call on her life. The daughter of an Iona missionary to the German people, Adelina’s world is turned upside-down when a young pagan ruler, Hedan of Thuringia, falls in love with her and commands that she become his bride. As a wedding gift, Hedan promises Adelina that he will allow Christians within Thuringia to worship and evangelize freely, spreading the Gospel among his people. But Hedan’s mother, Geila, hates both Adelina and Christianity, stopping at nothing to subvert her daughter-in-law and stamp out the fledgling German Culdee church.

Based on a true story, this Esther-like tale recounts the deeds of courageous Adelina as she endures persecution, slander, exile, and the impending destruction of her people. Through it all, will Adelina remain faithful to her Heavenly King? Or will she fall away and leave the Culdee church to its fate? Find out in this ancient Christian tale of beauty, bravery and romance — The Princess Adelina

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We own this book but as yet have not read it. Just from looking through it I can see that my daughters will glean much from it. More info HERE

Beautiful Girlhood Library

2009-04-10T11:16:00.000-07:00

In times like these, there is a desperate need to communicate to our daughters the ancient and biblical truths of femininity, courage, and virtue. Until recently, it was difficult to find books that would inspire our daughters to embrace such values. That is why home-school graduate Tracy Leininger applied her talents to her love of history and produced these delightful volumes for girls ages fourteen and under. Four hardback books.

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These books are wonderful. My older girls have read them and now my younger girls are enjoying them. If you have daughters then you should check these out. Amazing how much they learned about these women and the history of America. For more information go HERE

Big Book of Everything-Preschool

2009-04-08T20:05:00.003-07:00

Parents of preschoolers---are you running out of ways to keep those bouncy 3-, 4-, and 5-year-olds occupied? Now you'll never run out of ideas! From crafting table-centerpieces to counting flower pots, here's a wealth of creative activities you can use to teach the preschool "basics": blocks, drama, music and movement, art, cooking, language arts, math, science, and social studies. 320 reproducible pages, softcover from Instructional Fair.

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I just picked this up at our library because I was curious about it. And I found I really liked it. I think I will go ahead and purchase it to use with my soon to be preschooler. For more info. go HERE

All Kinds of Notebooking Pages on CD

2009-04-08T12:47:00.000-07:00

State Notebooking Pages

2009-04-08T12:46:00.001-07:00

Themed Notebooking Pages

2009-04-08T12:44:00.000-07:00

Latin Notebooking Pages

2009-04-08T12:42:00.001-07:00

Ancient Times Notebooking Pages

2009-04-08T12:37:00.001-07:00

Nature Study Notebooking Pages

2009-04-08T12:36:00.001-07:00

World Explorers Notebooking Pages

2009-04-08T12:34:00.001-07:00

Famous Composers Notebooking pages

2009-04-08T12:32:00.000-07:00

American Presidents Notebooking Pages

2009-04-08T12:29:00.000-07:00

Basic Lined Pages

2009-04-08T12:28:00.000-07:00

Character Study Notebooking Pages

2009-04-08T12:26:00.000-07:00

Alphabet Copywork Notebook Pages

2009-04-08T12:25:00.000-07:00

Notebooking Pages Everywhere

2009-04-08T12:20:00.000-07:00

Nature Study-Birds

2009-04-08T12:19:00.001-07:00

Copy and Sketch Book

2009-04-08T12:10:00.001-07:00

This simple, well-planned book allows the student to continue practicing the skills presented in the Memoria Press copybooksequence with his own Scripture, poetry, maxims, or composition selections. Designed to be used with or after Copybook III, the transitional line size and spacing of the Composition and Sketchbook prepare the young child for standard notebook paper.

This valuable, intermediate design requires the student to manage a blank page, a considerable task that requires practice, while accounting for small hands and beginner status. Because original illustrations provide the perfect companion to copybook, drawing pages are included on each facing page. In years to come, these books will provide a treasured journal of the child's progress. 95 pages, softcover.

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CONFESSION. I have tons of these copy and sketch books. Whenever I get a few extra bucks to spend on schooling I stock up on them. We use them for our almost all of our schooling. About 90% of our work is done in these. If you want to read more go HERE

Penmanship

2009-04-08T12:05:00.001-07:00

Imitation is important in education, but so is the object of that imitation. What to write is just as important as how to write. Not only do we want our littlest ones to form beautiful letters, we want them to copy beautiful words. If the goal is to take full advantage of each precious moment in education, why waste Copy Book time on anything less than the best?

Our Copy Books are three-in-one wonders that include memory passages, copy book exercises, and drawing pages. Copybook teaches penmanship, basic grammar, spelling, literature, accuracy, attention to detail, and memory - all through the simple skill of copying. We have selected Scripture from the King James Bible (chosen for its poetic verse) and classic children's poems such as those by Robert Louis Stevenson which describe the world in charming detail. The clean, facing pages provide plenty of space for your neophyte to draw and color the glorious passages provided. In years to come you will cherish these journals of your child's work.

Copybook I is the starting point for new writers (typically in Kindergarten). It starts with slightly larger margins that decrease over the next two books. Students begin by tracing, then move to copying directly under modeled words.

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We use these in our homeschool and I am really impressed with them. After my children go through book 1-3 they move on to the cursive copy books my memoria press. Learn more HERE

Christian Liberty Nature Readers

2009-04-08T11:53:00.001-07:00

Your children will delight in learning not only about the various animals and plants in creation, but also about God's glory. Birds, Bugs and more all pay tribute to God as their creator!

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Our family loves these little readers. We have used them with most of our children and will continue to do so. Highly recommend for your nature loving children. Read more HERE

Phonics Museum

2009-04-08T09:50:00.001-07:00

The Homeschool Kindergarten/Grade 1 Combo Kit includes everything you need for one student over two years. For additional students, add the Individual Student Kits for Kindergarten and First Grade.

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I have not personally used this but I did take quite a bit of time once looking it over at a conference and it seems a great program for teaching reading. More on it HERE

Noah Plan 3rd Grade Lesson Plan Book

2009-04-08T09:45:00.000-07:00

Following the methods and goals of the Principle Approach, The Noah Plan rests upon teaching students to build principles from God's word into everyday thinking; looking to the internal demands of conscience as causative of behavior and action; and learning to subdue the earth for God's purpose. This third-grade curriculum has fluency in reading, writing and arithmetic as its first essential goal, with the Bible, literature, history, French, music, art geography and many other subjects emphasized alongside the theme of "America's Heritage of Christian Character." Weekly lessons are divided into four quarters and presented in chart-like format, with notes on preparation, lesson instructions (including notebook work), student work and expected accomplishments. An extensive introduction provides parents with information about the backbone of the program while notes on getting ready for third grade provide practical advice for the teacher. 430 pages, softcover, spiral bound. More info HERE

Noah Plan 2nd Grade Lesson Plan Book

2009-04-08T09:43:00.001-07:00

Following the methods and goals of the Principle Approach, The Noah Plan rests upon teaching students to build principles from God's word into everyday thinking; looking to the internal demands of conscience as causative of behavior and action; and learning to subdue the earth for God's purpose. This second-grade curriculum has basic literacy in reading, writing and arithmetic as its first essential goal, with the Bible, literature, French, music, geography and many other fine art subjects emphasized alongside the theme of "The Christian Principle of Self Government." Weekly lessons are divided into four quarters and presented in chart-like format, with notes on preparation, lesson instructions (including notebook work), student work and expected accomplishments. An extensive introduction provides parents with information about the backbone of the program while notes on getting ready for second grade provide practical advice for the teacher. 384 pages, softcover, spiral bound. More info HERE

Noah Plan 1st Grade Lesson Plan Book

2009-04-08T09:39:00.001-07:00

This guide emphasizes the teaching of Biblical principles from leading ideas. It provides models of weekly lessons at the first grade level using the Principle Approach methodology to implement the vision of the Foundation for American Christian Education (F.A.C.E.) for publishing and teaching America's Chirstian Hisotry and method of education by Biblical principles to restore Christian self-governemnt and character to the individual, families, churches and nations. Includes step-by-step instructions, charts for weekly lessons, organizational suggestions, list of resources and more.

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A wonderful lesson plan book for teaching 1st grade. Complete and easy to read and implement. Read more HERE

Noah Plan K Lesson Plans

2009-04-08T09:35:00.000-07:00

The Noah Plan strives to free you from the confines of modern curriculum, building students biblical principles as a foundation for the rest of their lives, instead of filling them up with facts that will dissipate with time. This kindergarten manual has the year planned for you, with lessons in Bible, history, science and literature, and other tidbits that can be gleaned from this method! A notebooking approach is used, and the primary sources are the Bible, real books, Webster 1828 dictionary and other various excerpts. The guide contains three sections comprised of getting ready for kindergarten, week by week plans and supplemental information. Weekly plans are set up with preparation, a main lesson, student work, and ending accomplishments clearly outlined. 298 pages, spiral bound softcover.

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I have used this in the past and it is full of everything you need to teach grade K. Very good Resource. More info HERE

Art Curricula

2009-04-08T09:25:00.001-07:00

2009-04-08T09:24:00.001-07:00

An adorable text that teaches the social graces with scripture, along with simple art assignments. Lessons on dinner etiquette, being a good listener, saying "Please and Thank You," obeying your parents, writing thank you cards, refinement, spending quality time away from the television and much more! All with fun and easy art lessons. Sketch book and cut and paste sections included in the back of the text. Includes over 45 lessons/100 pages of art & etiquette in a spiralbound softcover text. Lessons may be done directly in the text or copied for in-home use. Recommended materials are a set of crayons or colored pencils and a large drawing pencil.

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Anything Barry Stebbing. He has some awesome art curricula for children. I believe we have used most everything he sells. This one we are going to use this year. His site really should be looked at. HERE is the link. This link is for ages 3-10. You can go to his home page HERE