Preparing at half-speed or Bigger?

[sted]

Hi,
I posted this question awhile ago but hoping to get a little more advice

My oldest will be using CTC. Next two daughters, are currently doing Beyond together with Bigger science and Bigger LA. They will be 10 and 6. Technically I should be doing Bigger with one and Preparing with the other but I can't see myself doing both programs next year. My middle daughter has some learning and attention issues so just getting her to complete work is sometimes tough. That's why I was considering doing something at her level (at half-pace) and adding in the 6 year old who's quite bright and gun-ho. I guess I would just lower my expectations of her. Or should I go with Bigger for both next year? I really think my 10 year old needs more encouragement to write ( a struggle) so that's why II'm thinking Preparing will possibly help with that.

Any ideas?

Thanks,
Shannon

[deltagal]

ok - typing w/ 1 hand, so bear w/ me....

6 yo will be 7 - right ?

I would use bigger for both. good rod and staff placement will address writing issues.

[my3sons]

I agree with deltagal. I think a 6 yo doing PHFHG would be a leap that just may be insurmountable. BHFHG would be a better fit for combining the 2 IMO, and deltagal makes a good point about the R & S addressing writing. But that's just my thinking here - you'll figure out what's best for your dc with all of your goals in mind.

In Christ,
Julie

[sted]

Oh, I had a brain freeze there. Actually the 6 yr., old is already 7 She will be eight next March.

Shannon

[Mom2Monkeys]

brain freezes make life interesting.

I though the age thing may change the previous advice, so I'm offering a bump. But also adding that each guide leads well into the nest, and bigger is a big jump from beyond. including writing.

[Carrie]

Shannon,

I would definitely look at the placement chart to see where your current 7 turning 8 year old fits best. That will make a big difference in your decision. There is quite a difference between the level of work required within Bigger versus Preparing Hearts. Bigger Hearts is a true training year for many of the skills, so I wouldn't be quick to pass it by unless your 7 year turning 8 year old places solidly within Preparing Hearts. It would be a rare child who could leap from Beyond to Preparing Hearts. Here's the placement chart link (remember to pay the most attention to the first page of the chart only when placing your kiddos): http://www.heartofdakota.com/placing-your-child.php

Blessings,
Carrie

[my3sons]

Hi Shannon - I was thinking this link may be helpful as you ponder this, as it explains the amount of writing the amount of writing in Bigger vs. PHFHG:
viewtopic.php?f=6&t=3602

Also, here are some links describing what's being done in each of the boxes and the time they take for each guide:
PHFHG time it takes:
viewtopic.php?f=6&t=4244&p=31219#p31219

BHFHG time it takes:
viewtopic.php?f=12&t=702

Finally, one other thought to consider is dc are supposed to independently be reading the science in PHFHG, as well as taking more ownership of doing those assignments independently. I just thought maybe these links could be helpful as you weigh your options.

In Christ,
Julie