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I have tons of questions, sorry!

We are all set to use all R&S language arts for 2nd grade, BUT, if I end up getting Bigger for my dd, then I don't need the R&S spelling, right? I would have her do the R&S phonics because she's done so well in their 1st grade phonics. Then there's English, which Bigger calls for. But what about Reading? R&S Reading is pretty different from DITHOR, it appears. But I like that dd will get an overview of the entire Bible by the time she finishes 4th grade if we stick with R&S Reading. Would it work to use that along with HOD? I would still have her read other literature selections, but I don't want to have too much going on, KWIM? She loves to read for fun. I don't really think I'd want to use DITHOR on top of all of that (and to be honest, with considering purchasing 2-3 HOD programs, I probably couldn't afford to add DITHOR right now anyway).

Also, does it matter if we stick with R&S for handwriting?

Hi!
Don't be sorry for having lots of questions! We are all here with questions & answers for each other. I can't help you with the R&S stuff cause I haven't used it yet. as for DITHOR, I plan on using it over the summer with my girls. I can't fit it in right now!
Hopefully, someone else will chime in & give you some insight into R&S.

Blessings,

sharonb,

If you plan to continue on with Rod and Staff for reading, then you wouldn't do DITHR. While they do cover different things, you don't want to bog down in having too many programs going on, so I'd recommend choosing one or the other. I totally understand the need to make tough choices, so if you choose to continue on with Rod and Staff that is just fine. DITHR may be something you can add someday. The important thing is that you're covering the needed reading skills somehow.

Within Bigger Hearts, if you use our spelling lists, you will not need Rod and Staff spelling. You will need Rod and Staff English 2 for grammar.

As far as handwriting goes, you will most likely want do cursive handwriting with Bigger Hearts as that is what we schedule in the guide. You may choose to use Rod and Staff's handwriting instead of what we schedule if you prefer without affecting the schedule.

Blessings,
Carrie