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I am considering using Beyond next year with my first grader and I have a few questions. We are already using a phonics program that includes Language Arts and Spelling and we really like it and want to stick with it. We also have a math program that my dd loves and is really excelling in, so we want to stick with that too. I really like what I see in the Beyond samples for all the other subjects, but I am wondering if it will be worth it to buy Beyond, even though we aren't going to use the Math or Language Arts. Does anyone use their own Language Arts and still use Beyond, or is Language Arts a large part of the program? Also, is the program geared more towards a 1st or 2nd grader?

Other than the emerging readers, there is just one box that has Language arts and covers spelling lists 4 days a week and basic grammar 1 day a week. Math is always an option and if you go with your own you can just leave that box as well. I still think the program would be worth it, there is so much in Beyond. As for 1st or 2nd grade, that will depend on your child. Some are ready at 6, some are not. My oldest is in Beyond at the lower end of the age range, my other child will go into Beyond towards the middle of the age range.

I think it would be very worth it to go with Beyond even though you wouldn't use the math or lang. arts. There are so many other components to Beyond...Poetry, Bible, Weekly Devotion, Science, History reading, Storytime, Art, Geography, History acitivies, and music....and this is WITHOUT math and language arts!

As far as being for 1st or 2nd grade, like the other poster said, it REALLY depends on your child. Beyond is a great fit for either grade, as long as the child is ready. I know that may not answer your question very well!!

Hope it helps a little!

The best way to decide if your child is ready for Beyond is to check the placement chart here: http://www.heartofdakota.com/placing-your-child.php
Even if you are going to use a different math and language arts programs, where your child fits in the skill areas on the chart will determine the best placement in a Heart of Dakota program.

You can definitely benefit from the Beyond guide in so many ways, even using your own math and LA. Absolutely! We use different math for my oldest and we really don't follow the LA schedule in the guide either, although we do use R&S this year. The left side of the guide is totally awesome, as well as the Storytime and Emergent Reader questions, etc. I would highly recommend it to you. The guide was made with complete freedom for you to choose whatever math or LA program that you want~ It has been a blessing to us this year!