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I have finished Bigger Hearts with my dd (soon turning 9) this last academic year. As I look at Preparing (which I've already done with 2 kids), I sense that she is not quite ready for this, mainly due to the fact that her reading skills are still not strong. I looked at the Independent Reading box, and just cannot see her being able to do those readings, nor the Science readings. I"m also not sure that she's quite ready for DITHR.

What would you suggest that I do to make up for this? Should I do Preparing 1/2 pace? Do the Independent and Science readings out loud with her (which would seem to defeat the purpose of those boxes!)? Any suggestions would be appreciated! Thanks!

You could do it half pace and concentrate on getting her reading skills up to level before going full speed. You may be surprised at what she can do.

I am in the same boat with my just turned 10yo. I have decided to wait a year to put her into Preparing for that very reason. Since we are working on a special reading (and math) program, I wanted to really concentrate on those areas. Then when we begin Preparing, I am trusting she will be ready for a little independent reading. I want to be able to use as much of the guide as possible. But, even waiting a year, I can't be sure she will be doing much independent reading on that level. I hope I'm wrong.

This was a good question. Sorry, I cannot give you an answer for your situation. I'd be interested in hearing from Carrie or Julie about this, since our case is similar. The independent box(es) are what has me concerned as well. And, I don't want her to miss those boxes. I, too, was thinking I would just read them to her if she couldn't handle all of it. But, like you said, it defeats the purpose. I also thought about eliminating some of the independent history boxes, but again, that defeats the purpose. Thanks for addressing this.