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Hello! I have some questions for those who use the extension packages for the older programs....
- Do your children read these book independently, and easily? Do they find the material challenging, easy, or difficult to read independently?
- Are there any activities or questions linked to these extra books, or are they just told which pages to read?
- Do you find that with the Extension Package included, the HOD program is perfect for your older child using the program, or do you think that the program is too easy for your child, or immature for your child?

Thankyou for you help. Nicole

Hi, the extension packages are intended for older students using an HOD level a little below them, usually for the sake of combining with a younger sibling. The older student should be a strong, independent reader and mature enough for the material. Carrie is great about writing in warnings in the daily schedule, to give parents a "heads-up" about material that the parent may want to preview or discuss with their child. There is a daily schedule in the appendix of each guide that features extensions, along with instructions for suggested follow-ups (such as doing an oral or written narration, or drawing a picture with a caption or paragraph, depending on which guide you aree using). If the extensions are too difficult/mature for your older student to read independently, the child should not use them. HOD guides are very meaty, but if you are planning to combine an older and a younger student, you should first evaluate each child individually to see where they fit on the placement chart: http://www.heartofdakota.com/placing-your-child.php When combining, you use the guide that fits your younger child best, as long as the skills of the older child are not much higher. However, if the skill spread is very wide between the two children, placing each in a separate guide will probably work better. HTH!

Thankyou Lourdes,that is very helpful. Nicole