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I've been searching the boards...and I read the ordering chart...but just to clarify so I budget correctly.

For Preparing, there are 3-4 sets of book/reading programs?

DITHOR, then the basic for read-aloud...then the self-study/deluxe for independent learning?

I know dh is gonna ask why about so many books, and I need to be prepared with a good answer.

We have DITHOR 2/3 from Bigger which we didn't get to use last year with the level 3 books. Are those books still okay to use in Preparing? That would get me down to just 2 more sets to purchase.

What I was planning was to use the DITHOR we have and then add the basic...then I would choose ONE of either the self study or the self-study deluxe (just not both of these). I would prolly opt for the deluxe one.

I don't need all of them, right? Basic, self study AND deluxe self study?

Thanks!

The basic is the read aloud portion of the program and the deluxe package is meant for the independent history reading. So, yes they are seperate.

The DITHOR will be fine to keep and use what you have. I am going to be using 2/3 with the level 2 books with my dd in preparing and 4/5 with level 5 books for my ds in preparing. So the levels and the books are not dependant on the program you are using.

I think I have that right. this will at least bump you up and someone can chime in if I am off base

Rebecca

You're correct! Of course, you could streamline and do the Economy Package with science if that is what your budget allows. This is why we have various smaller packages in order for you to be able to customize the program to best meet your needs.

For example, if you feel you wouldn't have the time or the finances to do the Basic Package read-alouds in Preparing Hearts, you could omit them. If you do choose to go that route, then we'd recommend having the Deluxe Package for your child to give that historical feel to the readings if at all possible. This is just one possible scenario. You can come up with the one that fits you best. So, you have many options on how to make Preparing Hearts fit your family and budget best.

Blessings,
Carrie

Thanks!

But you could do them all if you want, right? I was figuring we'd use them all (including extensions for the older) next year when we do Preparing with kids who will then be 4th and 5th. Would oldest skip the Deluxe package if she does Extensions or could she do both?

According to what Carrie explained the deluxe and extensions are the independent History reading portions. Deluxe for the students within the age range and extensions for the older kids (5th and 6th graders.) I am using them all, but the deluxe with a third grade and extensions with the 6th grader. I guess you could do it all, but that would be a lot. Especially if you were going to use DITHOR also.

Rebecca

Hello "threegreatkids". No advice, I'm watching as well to see what the ladies here say. Just wanted to pop in to say that I will also be using Preparing with a 4th ad 5th grader starting in the Fall. We're just finishing up Bigger for them both right now. One with extensions, one without!

I can't imagine doing ALL the book sets plus DITHOR with one child. Doing DITHOR, the storytime, and the independent books w/assignments are quite a bit, let alone adding in one more set.

Now, if you used that one extra set for just free reading with no assignments attached, I think that would be fine. I have an avid reader here too, and sometimes it is nice having extra books on hand just for that night time reading. It's nothing for my dd to read a 120 pg book in 2-3 nights.

Infact, I am toying with getting all the sets just to have that one spare set for nighttime reading...but gotta check the budget first.

Ladies,

The intent for Preparing Hearts (if budget and time allow) is for you to do the Economy Package, Science adder, Basic Package (for parent to read-aloud), and your choice of either Deluxe or Extension Package (based on what level your child is able to read independently). Then, you would add your choice of math, grammar, the music CD, and DITHR.

Blessings,
Carrie