Has anyone here switched from Unit Studies to HOD?

[hsmomto1]

I am currently using a literature based, laid back Unit Study curriculum (FIAR). When I pulled ds(8) back out of school, this was what I was familiar with, and it was inexpensive-so I quickly jumped into it. I think it is a wonderful program, I really do. We are a small family, and the runs to the library have not been a big deal. The focus is on instilling the love of learning in children. And, that is one of our top three goals for our dc! Putting our 13yo dd in PS last year has proven the fruits of Unit studies-she excels in the most advanced classes, getting all A's. She loves to read!!
But the scattered nature of the curriculum has always left me wondering if my dc are/were getting enough of this or that. Then, I am plagued with doubt, concern, and worry. That leads to discontentment and overall lack of joy. I am already a worrier, so this doesn't help.
Because of this, I began looking at other curricula, and found HOD. I am wrapping up our current volume in three weeks, so need something by then.
I would love to hear the opinions of others who have made a switch to HOD from Unit Studies.

Thanks!

Christine

[Carrie]

Christine,

I just wanted to welcome you to the HOD Board. We do have many moms who have come from FIAR to HOD. I'll link a few threads below about that, however you can also seach for "FIAR" in the "search" feature and many more threads will come up about it.

Some moms may still get back to you with their thoughts, but I just wanted to make sure that your question got answered in some form.

Link:
viewtopic.php?f=6&t=2920

viewtopic.php?f=6&t=2652

viewtopic.php?f=6&t=2139

Blessings,
Carrie

[juliekay]

But the scattered nature of the curriculum has always left me wondering if my dc are/were getting enough of this or that. Then, I am plagued with doubt, concern, and worry. That leads to discontentment and overall lack of joy. I am already a worrier, so this doesn't help.
Because of this, I began looking at other curricula, and found HOD. I am wrapping up our current volume in three weeks, so need something by then.
Christine

Dear Christine,

Welcome to HOD. I shared your struggle and thoughts. You will love HOD. It has the literature-rich elements that FIAR had, but it also thoroughly covers all of your subjects in a organized way that mom can see, yet in a creative way that your student isn't overwhelmed. We loved FIAR and I still very much enjoy reading the FIAR titles to my little ones, but there comes a time when we must move on!

[my3sons]

I did FIAR for a year and felt the same way you do. We do still have the FIAR books on our dc's bookshelves to read for fun, but the way HOD is written allows me the joy of a unit study feel (on the left side of the plans), while still relieving me of the stress that comes with constantly wondering if dc are getting the skills they need for each given age. HOD's curriculum teaches the academic skills that are needed for each age, while yet still retaining a unit study feel that I enjoy. I think you'd find the transition an easy and welcome one.

In Christ,
Julie

[hsmomto1]

Thanks so much, ladies.

I am at peace with switching to HOD. I am still planning on reading the next volume of FIAR-and will always keep their philosophy in my heart-but it is time for us to move on. Thank God for husbands-mine is able to point out the obvious and yet make me feel okay with what I feel is the best.