heartofdakota.com

Well, we've kept our daughter in public school for pre-K and this year for K. She has sensory processing disorder and is highly sensory seeking, so she is my 100% action child - non stop. She's been getting some speech and occupational therapy at the school. However, after prayer and seeing how she really needs more one-on-one help than what the school can give her we are ready to go for Heart of Dakota next year.

The straw that broke the camel's back in our decision making was picking her up yesterday with her telling me that
"we saw a bad movie today, Mommy". (Last week of school with a PJ's, stuffed animals and movie day)
"Why was it bad, honey?"
"It wasn't good for my heart!"
"Why not?"
And then she proceeded to tell me of a daddy and daughter who change into bats and about skeletons, etc.

I was absolutely shocked and called the school. Found out that they showed the kids Hotel Transylvania. I had never heard of it, and checked out about it. It made me furious - that my child had been exposed to such nonsense and evil...even if put in a childish way. It's something that we would never allow in our home - not ever. This is coming from a school that is so careful during halloween to not have the kids dress up in anything "scary". My husband and I were quite upset and felt like the school has really violated our trust. I didn't even think to ask them which movie they were going to watch.
We prayed over our her last night - trusting that God will erase any lasting effects from what she heard and saw...

So having said all that, and taking into consideration that our school district is going in with the common core next year also, we're going to take the plunge and homeschool her. I've been wanting to for ages... Am going to have to get a formal letter to the school together to withdraw her. We've been using HOD for a ds already. (He finished Preparing this year) Funny thing is - after looking at my homeschool supplies, I see that I've pretty well collected what we already need and a friend has a used LHFHG manual to sell to us. Yay! I am so excited.

If you can take the time to whisper a prayer for us - please do. We are also taking our oldest ds out of a Christian school because of finances. He has asperger type tendencies. Last year I was only homeschooling one boy. This coming year (probably start in late July), it will be all 3 of them. Two of them are special needs... I am reminded of the fact that with the call to homeschooling, God also provides grace, strength, and wisdom.... I sure need HIM! Also, please pray that there will be no backlash from the school in taking our littlest out. She has an IEP within the school - so will need to make sure the proper paperwork is done...(probably join the HSLDA)

Anyways, just wanted to share with you all that I am excited, but going forth with a little trepidation. Am so thankful for HOD and think that the short lessons and a lot of action incorporated in the lessons will be great for my little one. Sorry this got so long......

Welcome to the board! Since you're already familiar with HOD, I think that adding two more next year won't be as challenging as you think Also, since you're already familiar with your childrens' individual challenges (and won't be completely focused on the 'delays' or 'issues' etc. the way public school does), you'll be able to really overcome a lot and make tremendous progress both in their academic and spiritual walks. For you, it's simply part of who God made your child to be, and you work through things with them as they need it. Praise the Lord!

I can't believe they showed kindergarteners that movie! That is so sad. You were absolutely right to be angry. How sweet of your little girl to come to you for help...that shows that you have been doing a great job teaching her right and wrong in The Lord, and truly nurturing your relationship! Way to go, Mama

God bless you! You will be in our prayers. Feel free to post any questions or thoughts that the ladies here could help you with as you begin this new part of your journey! Welcome

Welcome to the boards. I pray that you have a good transition from homeschooling 1 child to homeschooling 3 children. You will be blessing your children. Of this, I am confident.
Sorry to hear that a school you entrusted your child to, would do something like show a PG rated movie to Kindergarteners. It's sad that our world is becoming a place where some parents don't think twice about exposing young children to PG, PG13, and even R rated movies.

Good luck in your journey!

Thanks for sharing about your dear family, Starla! I had a similar experience with a school talent show back when I was actually a ps teacher that led me to NOT wanting my dc to attend the ps I was teaching at - and in many regards, it was a very nice school. The heart issues are difficult to overcome when God is not allowed in the building. I think you are up to the task of homeschooling your dc with HOD because HOD totally has your back! We do too, on this board. Please come here for advice and help as often as possible - or just to encourage others, as you certainly will have stories to share in that regard too!!! I have said a prayer for you, but I think you are going to know in your heart of hearts, you made the right decision.

In Christ,
Julie