Can I really combine?

Mom25 · Post by **Mom25** » Tue Jun 17, 2008 4:21 pm

Hi. I will have a 7yo and 9yo twins this fall. The 9yo just finished MFW ECC, and the 7yo just finished MFWK, after having 3 years of preschool. The 7yo (boy) is a bit immature (still very silly and acts more like 5 or 6yos we know), but he is reading at about a first grade level (long vowels) and I'm ready for him to be challenged a bit more, with the hopes that he will settle down at least a little. We do still need to finish some phonics with him.

I was initially thinking of doing LHFHG for the 7yo and Preparing for the 9yos. But now that I'm thinking of it, can I combine them with Bigger? Will the 9yos be challenged enough with it (they're both pretty advanced readers and thinkers), and will my 7yo be challenged too much? Should I just stick with 2 programs? Help!

mom2boys030507 · Post by **mom2boys030507** » Tue Jun 17, 2008 5:18 pm

I think that could work. I would be concerned if it will be to much writing for your 7yod. Also the jump to Bigger might just be too big of a jump for him. I would thin your 9yod's would be fine with Bigger and if you feel they need more of a challenge then add in the extension pack.

I would recommend looking at the placement chart and really figuring out where your 7yod places - you don't want to end up frustrating him with school.

Please keep in mind that I have not done these programs. We are just finishing up LIttle Hearts.

Karen

Melanie · Post by **Melanie** » Wed Jun 18, 2008 6:15 am

I'm not sure on this one......
I love combining and usually that's my first suggestions, but.....

When we completed MFW K, we went straight into Little Hearts and it was a perfect fit. Did you complete phonics with something else for your ds?? Is he able to do nice copywork, spelling, listen to longer readings with no pictures, give narrations??? I'm hesitant to suggest Bigger for him just coming out of MFW K.

It might be easier on you in the long run, to do 2 programs, rather than working so hard to make one program work...kwim??
I've gotta run now, but really study that placement chart, and then think about...would he be ready for Preparing the next year??

Mel

Mom25 · Post by **Mom25** » Wed Jun 18, 2008 10:26 am

Thanks--just what I needed to hear. If we do HOD, we will definitely do two programs. The more I looked at the samples last night, the more I see that they will all benefit much more to be separate. Can't wait to combine, though!!

Post by **Carrie** » Wed Jun 18, 2008 5:18 pm

Mom25,

The ladies gave you wonderful advice!

The placement chart is most accurate, and sometimes those little immature boys just need some growing up time. It's possible you may be able to combine your kiddos down the road a little bit, as your younger one matures and becomes a stronger reader and listener. But, for now, as the ladies mentioned, you'll most likely find it easier to run two programs at their level than to be constantly modifying one program.

Besides, you may find that your older son can take over much of Preparing... on his own, leaving you wonderful teaching time alone with your younger son. This has been the case at our house, and I have been grateful to have that special time with son #2.

Blessings,
Carrie