heartofdakota.com

I just started homeschooling my three boys(I have a baby and a 3 year old as well) and I am having a very hard time figuring out placement. My kids all read above grade level. My boys are in 3rd, 5th and 6th grades. I was considering doing the Preparing Hearts, but I am concerned about it being challenging enough for my oldest one. Has anyone had this age gap? How did you do it? I really love having us all together so that we can do activities together. My main priority is making sure that my oldest is challenged. They are all very advanced for their ages and they tend to get through material so quickly that they become bored. I want to challenge them without going so far ahead that they miss things as well.....

-Sarah

Hi Sarah! Welcome to the board.

Preparing Hearts does have an extension package for 5th-6th graders.

That being said, I know others can help you out more in placement that have done that before.
One thing to get in mind is that placement involves more than reading levels, but a lot of other skills besides.
Another thing to consider is if they are familiar with a Charlotte Mason style of education.
It sounds as though you have checked the placement chart, but you could look again keeping all this in mind.

I know someone else with more experience will chime in soon. We are only doing 2 guides with an occasional LHTH for a 3 yo.
It works very well for us to be separated, although they do sometimes join in on the others activities.

HTH some!
Mikki

Welcome Sarah! Could you tell us a bit more about your boys such as how do they each place individually on the placement chart: http://www.heartofdakota.com/placing-your-child.php? What sort of curriculum have you used before? Have they been narrating, doing much writing, and what sort of books have they been reading? It's possible that they could all be placed in the same program but it may or may not be the best choice. Here is a great thread that talks about to combine or not to combine and choosing the right program: viewtopic.php?f=6&t=9344 If you could share a bit more, I'm sure many ladies can share their ideas and experience to try to help you find the right placement.

Thanks for the advice. I have worked it out!

-Sarah

Wow, that was quick! What did you decide? Oh, and welcome to the HOD Board - nice to meet you! I have 3 boys too, though not the littles after them. Boys are a busy blessing, aren't they?

In Christ,
Julie

I have been looking at this curriculum for about a year or so now, but they were at a different level then. I chose to use Preparing. I am starting on Monday...I can't wait!

-Sarah

Julie.....btw, I LOVE having boys. I only have one girl and she is magnificent, but I wouldn't trade my boys for anything. My youngest is another boy, too. So cute and kissable! My heart is definitely full.

Very exciting - hope you have a super start! PHFHG is a wonderful guide!
In Christ,
Julie