Taking a deep breath and jumping in!
I had a different plan for this year, but I keep thinking I would like to do Preparing in the future. I finally figured maybe I should just jump in with Bigger now since the programs seem to build on skills, and we were planning to do American History anyway. I will be using this with two boys, who will be 7 and 9 this summer. Young for their grades (2nd and 4th), and I really have recently desired to just stop labeling them with a grade. We are not involved in anything that requires it anyway. I also have an almost 5 yo boy, a 2.75 yo girl, and a 1 yo boy. I'll get started with the questions!
First, language arts. My 9 yo is currently getting some phonics reinforcements. He is an independent reader but I was not satisfied with his word attack skills and that he seemed to have forgotten all the phonics rules (he is good at memorizing words and guessing by context! ugh!) I hope to have him in a better place early this fall. He loves history, maps, the outdoors, and non-fiction reading material. He used Primary Language Lessons for part of his 2nd grade year, then most of a Queen's book last year. However, he would get very frustrated trying to understand parts of speech and subject/predicate. Should he use Rod & Staff 2? I was planning to wait until he is 10 to do anymore grammar and then try Jr. Analytical Grammar. I'm not sure if I want to deviate from that plan. He is all-boy and I've been trying to stick to the idea of "better later than early" ala the Moore's, but am ready to step it up a bit over the next year.
Second, do I want to use the science for Bigger? We have used MFW K, 1st, ADV, and ECC. I did not like MFW's science and ended up dropping it every year, except K. We are currently using Exploring Creation with Astronomy (Apologia) and LOVE it!! So that gives you an idea of what we like. Also, we live a lifestyle of "nature study," researching whatever the kids find and ask about, and reading lots of library books on science topics. We also garden, hunt, and have experience w/ farm animals (inlaw's have an organic dairy farm.) I have had my hands on the One Small Square books in the past and I'm just not sure I like them any better than the cluttered Usborne pages, but I might take a look again as they are at my library. Would the Planet Earth info be too similar to the earth info in the Astronomy book? or what we experienced in ECC last year?
ETA: A third question! Has anyone done ADV and Bigger? How do they compare? Are they different enough? My boys love American History so I'm not too concerned about it, but wanted to ask!
Thanks for any help with my first questions.
questions about Bigger
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4littleones
- Posts: 35
- Joined: Thu Jun 10, 2010 8:53 pm
Re: questions about Bigger
Hello there,
I can only answer the R&S related question. We are have started doing that with my 7 yo girl this past year, and it is very gentle, step by little step grammar. No syntax yet. I would say go for it. I am planning to start my 7 yo boy in the fall. The only thing that would worry me is the amount of writing required (which my boy dislikes), but even Carrie suggests doing most of it orally.
Personally, I am impressed with R&S 2. I find it very age- appropriate, God-honoring and extremely simple to do. In the beginning, I would read to DD, then she would read while I was next to her and made sure she could "decode" the instructions, and now she is doing it all by herself. I am just asking her what she learned at the end of the lesson and she gives me a little narration. I might ask for an example and I just check her written work (she likes to write).
Hope this helps a little...
I can only answer the R&S related question. We are have started doing that with my 7 yo girl this past year, and it is very gentle, step by little step grammar. No syntax yet. I would say go for it. I am planning to start my 7 yo boy in the fall. The only thing that would worry me is the amount of writing required (which my boy dislikes), but even Carrie suggests doing most of it orally.
Personally, I am impressed with R&S 2. I find it very age- appropriate, God-honoring and extremely simple to do. In the beginning, I would read to DD, then she would read while I was next to her and made sure she could "decode" the instructions, and now she is doing it all by herself. I am just asking her what she learned at the end of the lesson and she gives me a little narration. I might ask for an example and I just check her written work (she likes to write).
Hope this helps a little...
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blessedmomof4
- Posts: 1138
- Joined: Tue Oct 02, 2007 4:34 pm
- Location: Las Vegas, Nevada
Re: questions about Bigger
Hi and welcome!
Just a word about Planet Earth-that is part of the extension pack and is intended for independent use by the student. If your older son is needing help in the area of phonics, the extension pack may be more of a burden than a help. I wonder if you might consider using the program "as is" without the extension books. I used bigger with my youngest girls when they were 8 and 9 and the nine-year-old was just beginning to be an independent reader, so the extension pack assignments were too much for her. We all enjoyed the basic science, but Heart of Dakota is flexible enough to use a different science if you prefer. Rod and Staff 2 turned out to be a perfect fit for both, with the younger daughter doing more of the work orally and the older with more written. For spelling, I used the spelling list for the younger and the studied dictation for the older.
Also, have you looked at the placement charts on Heart of Dakota's home page? http://www.heartofdakota.com/placing-your-child.php The most important things to check are where your children fit in the language arts and math areas. Once you have done that, looking at the other subject areas can help finalize your placement.
I hope that helps! Whatever you decide, I'm sure you will love Heart of Dakota
Just a word about Planet Earth-that is part of the extension pack and is intended for independent use by the student. If your older son is needing help in the area of phonics, the extension pack may be more of a burden than a help. I wonder if you might consider using the program "as is" without the extension books. I used bigger with my youngest girls when they were 8 and 9 and the nine-year-old was just beginning to be an independent reader, so the extension pack assignments were too much for her. We all enjoyed the basic science, but Heart of Dakota is flexible enough to use a different science if you prefer. Rod and Staff 2 turned out to be a perfect fit for both, with the younger daughter doing more of the work orally and the older with more written. For spelling, I used the spelling list for the younger and the studied dictation for the older.
Also, have you looked at the placement charts on Heart of Dakota's home page? http://www.heartofdakota.com/placing-your-child.php The most important things to check are where your children fit in the language arts and math areas. Once you have done that, looking at the other subject areas can help finalize your placement.
I hope that helps! Whatever you decide, I'm sure you will love Heart of Dakota
Lourdes
Wife to Danforth
2 grads 9/19/92,7/8/95
2 in charter school 1/31/98, 9/19/99
3 in Heaven 8/11/06, 8/18/10, 9/13/13
Future HODie is here! 9/14/12
Wife to Danforth
2 grads 9/19/92,7/8/95
2 in charter school 1/31/98, 9/19/99
3 in Heaven 8/11/06, 8/18/10, 9/13/13
Future HODie is here! 9/14/12
Re: questions about Bigger
Welcome to the HOD Board! We're on our second time through Bigger Hearts and enjoying it very much. We used the placement chart to place each of our dc, and it has been very accurate and oh so helpful in choosing which program(s) to use. Placement is important for how the overall year will go, so be sure to check out the placement chart with each of your dc in mind if you haven't gotten a chance to yet (the first page is the most telling) :
http://www.heartofdakota.com/placing-your-child.php
Age is only one indicator of what a child can do, so the placement chart is so helpful. I am wondering about your 7 yo for the most part, as that child would be on the very youngest end of the guide, which is something to consider, as skills are taught within the maturity level noted within each guide. I would agree that R & S English 2 would be a gentle start to grammar, and most moms on this board have their dc do a good portion of it orally, reserving about a third of it to be written. This keeps grammar from becoming more cumbersome and overly time consuming as dc reach the upper levels of R & S. R & S is an excellent grammar program - it's Christian, it gives thorough instruction, and it teaches grammar for the purpose of writing well. Love it! (As long as we do a good portion orally. 
).
The science is one of my favorite things about HOD. It is done with living books, which my dc retain so much better and enjoy even more. The experiments are twice a week, and they are written in the daily plans. They use kitchen supplies, and even though I am not a project-oriented mom, they always get done because the dc can become the scientists and do them themselves. The scientific method is taught as well, which has helped our dc think scientifically. I really appreciate this approach, as opposed to dc just reading about science and just being told what scientists have already discovered in "fact form". Instead, they've learned to look at science as a way to find answers to questions we have, as a way to solve problems, and that's exciting to them. I also enjoy that the science is linked to the history. So, when we're reading about Columbus in history, we're studying about the Seashore in science. Nice connections. The OSS books paired with the experiments, the oral narrations, and the notebooking, all make for a well-rounded science program that teaches LA skills right along with science skills.
I'd love to hear more about your kiddos with the placement chart in mind and then would be glad to kick around some ideas with you! It is nice to meet you, and I think you'll find this board to be full of some encouraging, Christian ladies that love to help and have a real heart for the Lord!
In Christ,
Julie
:http://www.heartofdakota.com/placing-your-child.php
Age is only one indicator of what a child can do, so the placement chart is so helpful. I am wondering about your 7 yo for the most part, as that child would be on the very youngest end of the guide, which is something to consider, as skills are taught within the maturity level noted within each guide. I would agree that R & S English 2 would be a gentle start to grammar, and most moms on this board have their dc do a good portion of it orally, reserving about a third of it to be written. This keeps grammar from becoming more cumbersome and overly time consuming as dc reach the upper levels of R & S. R & S is an excellent grammar program - it's Christian, it gives thorough instruction, and it teaches grammar for the purpose of writing well. Love it!
(As long as we do a good portion orally. ). The science is one of my favorite things about HOD. It is done with living books, which my dc retain so much better and enjoy even more. The experiments are twice a week, and they are written in the daily plans. They use kitchen supplies, and even though I am not a project-oriented mom, they always get done because the dc can become the scientists and do them themselves. The scientific method is taught as well, which has helped our dc think scientifically. I really appreciate this approach, as opposed to dc just reading about science and just being told what scientists have already discovered in "fact form". Instead, they've learned to look at science as a way to find answers to questions we have, as a way to solve problems, and that's exciting to them. I also enjoy that the science is linked to the history. So, when we're reading about Columbus in history, we're studying about the Seashore in science. Nice connections.
The OSS books paired with the experiments, the oral narrations, and the notebooking, all make for a well-rounded science program that teaches LA skills right along with science skills.I'd love to hear more about your kiddos with the placement chart in mind and then would be glad to kick around some ideas with you! It is nice to meet you, and I think you'll find this board to be full of some encouraging, Christian ladies that love to help and have a real heart for the Lord!
In Christ,
Julie
Enjoyed LHTH to USII
Currently using USI
Wife to Rich for 28 years
Mother to 3 sons, ages 23, 20, and 16
Sister to Carrie
Currently using USI
Wife to Rich for 28 years
Mother to 3 sons, ages 23, 20, and 16
Sister to Carrie
Re: questions about Bigger
I have looked at the placement chart. (I have the catalog.) I'm pretty lax in the lower grades and my 7 yo will not be using much of Bigger. I do not use full programs at that age, so the 5 and 7 will listen in on all the readings of Bigger. (ETA: I no longer use full programs at age 7 as I have changed my expectations, there is only so much time in a day, and our family enjoys learning together. I will most definitely not buy a 2nd HOD program. Just wanted to explain a bit more of who we are.) I usually read-aloud about 2 hrs/day already so they are used to lots of great books. I plan to use some, but not all, of the Extension books for extra read-alouds. I thought the Exploring Planet Earth book would interest them if it is anything like the Astronomy book we are currently using. Maybe not? If it is anything like the Properties of Ecosystems we used in MFW ECC, we definitely don't want it.
What my almost 7 yo is currently doing and will continue this fall:
*cursive practice (I would have waited but he wants to do it, has excellent fine motor, and is enjoying it.)
*continue phonics w/ OPGTR and then would use HOD Emerging Readers books
*daily narration
*Bible and poetry memorization (just transfer to what is in Bigger)
*2 hrs of mom reading/day (Bigger's offers plus family choices)
*time and space for arts & crafts (I'm quite sure he would use the HOD suggestions. He's a different kid than his big brother.)
*informal math
*I may or may not use HOD spelling w/ him. I'm not big on formal spelling lessons at this age.
Did I miss any of your questions?
ETA: I've decided not to order Exploring Planet Earth. We are better off having lighter science during the traditional school year and adding other things in the summer. Thanks!
Signed,
really trying not to over-do it!
What my almost 7 yo is currently doing and will continue this fall:
*cursive practice (I would have waited but he wants to do it, has excellent fine motor, and is enjoying it.)
*continue phonics w/ OPGTR and then would use HOD Emerging Readers books
*daily narration
*Bible and poetry memorization (just transfer to what is in Bigger)
*2 hrs of mom reading/day (Bigger's offers plus family choices)
*time and space for arts & crafts (I'm quite sure he would use the HOD suggestions. He's a different kid than his big brother.)
*informal math
*I may or may not use HOD spelling w/ him. I'm not big on formal spelling lessons at this age.
Did I miss any of your questions?
ETA: I've decided not to order Exploring Planet Earth. We are better off having lighter science during the traditional school year and adding other things in the summer. Thanks!
Signed,
really trying not to over-do it!
Re: questions about Bigger
Thank you for sharing about your 7 yo! It really does make a difference what a family's goals are, so I appreciate your sharing some of yours so clearly here. Since you are not wanting to take a formal approach to school and adhere to the better late than never thought with the youngers, I'd be inclined to do Little Hearts for His Glory with your 5 and 7 yo, along with continuing the cursive, etc. with your 7 yo, and I'd do Bigger Hearts with your 9 yo. I know that you are not keen on 2 programs, which you'll have to factor in this decision and will certainly know best. The reason I suggest this is because of your other goals for the youngers, and LHFHG would fit perfectly with those goals, while doing Bigger Hearts with your 9 yo would fit well with the goals you have for him. The youngers could listen in on the Bigger Hearts readings, but that could be more optional, as they'd be getting history and science more at their age level in shorter segments within LHFHG. However, if you feel Bigger Hearts is the way to go with the 7 and 9 yo, than that is an option too. I just am reluctant to suggest placing a 7 yo in Bigger Hearts if they have not done HOD before, and even more reluctant if you adhere to the better late than never train of thought. Praying for you as you ponder!
In Christ,
Julie
Since you are not wanting to take a formal approach to school and adhere to the better late than never thought with the youngers, I'd be inclined to do Little Hearts for His Glory with your 5 and 7 yo, along with continuing the cursive, etc. with your 7 yo, and I'd do Bigger Hearts with your 9 yo. I know that you are not keen on 2 programs, which you'll have to factor in this decision and will certainly know best. The reason I suggest this is because of your other goals for the youngers, and LHFHG would fit perfectly with those goals, while doing Bigger Hearts with your 9 yo would fit well with the goals you have for him. The youngers could listen in on the Bigger Hearts readings, but that could be more optional, as they'd be getting history and science more at their age level in shorter segments within LHFHG. However, if you feel Bigger Hearts is the way to go with the 7 and 9 yo, than that is an option too. I just am reluctant to suggest placing a 7 yo in Bigger Hearts if they have not done HOD before, and even more reluctant if you adhere to the better late than never train of thought. Praying for you as you ponder! In Christ,
Julie
Enjoyed LHTH to USII
Currently using USI
Wife to Rich for 28 years
Mother to 3 sons, ages 23, 20, and 16
Sister to Carrie
Currently using USI
Wife to Rich for 28 years
Mother to 3 sons, ages 23, 20, and 16
Sister to Carrie
Re: questions about Bigger
I don't know, Julie. It is tempting. It is always tempting to buy curriculum! LOL My 5 yo will not be 5 until the end of August and, being a boy, I worry about pushing too much. He is currently working in OPGTR, but only because he asks for phonics. I don't offer it, but if he asks then I do it (so a few days/week.) His math skills are very advanced just from living in this household, not from bookwork. We have been practicing writing a letter/day on the whiteboard. Just trying to keep things light and fun. I use Picture Book Preschool to order books from the library to read to him and his little sister (the 7 and 9 usually listen to--they all come running when I sit down to read.) My husband does Bible in the a.m., then I read Leading Little Ones to God and Vos' Story Bible in the evenings. He is terrific with Bible memory work. He listens in on all our chapter books (current one is Treasure Island, recent favorites: Trumpet of the Swan, Guns for General Washington, The Year of Miss Agnes.) He discusses the books so I know he is "getting" it. I'm not sure what Little Hearts has to offer him, but I am open to hearing your response.
I have Bigger on the way already so I guess I will know more once I can look through it. If it isn't going to work for the youngers tagging along w/ the 9 yo, then I am inclined to not use it. I can stick to my original plan of using Truthquest American History for Young Students (which we've been using this summer,) along with Bible, memory work, copywork, math, and Apologia. HOD called to me because it has the memory work, copywork, dictation, narration stuff worked out for me already. I was looking for less planning on my part, a CM education, and fewer library books needed. From the descriptions, I also thought that HOD might teach me some things about narration and dictation. Plus, I like that HOD offers an overview of world history w/ Preparing.
I have Bigger on the way already so I guess I will know more once I can look through it. If it isn't going to work for the youngers tagging along w/ the 9 yo, then I am inclined to not use it. I can stick to my original plan of using Truthquest American History for Young Students (which we've been using this summer,) along with Bible, memory work, copywork, math, and Apologia. HOD called to me because it has the memory work, copywork, dictation, narration stuff worked out for me already. I was looking for less planning on my part, a CM education, and fewer library books needed. From the descriptions, I also thought that HOD might teach me some things about narration and dictation. Plus, I like that HOD offers an overview of world history w/ Preparing.
Re: questions about Bigger
I really am open to hearing more about LHFHG for my 5 and 7. You have me curious now. What does it have to offer them that they are not getting from what I posted above? I am so easily tempted by curriculum, but really, really do not want to over-do it. I experienced burn-out last year teaching MFW ECC and MFW 1st, and keeping up with an infant, tot, and preschooler. Since then I have been doing phonics, cursive, Bible, Astronomy, and read-alouds with my children. It works really well, but as I said above, I would like to add in copywork and more memory work this fall. I also want to be sure that I keep my oldest moving forward in the language arts area so that he will be ready for Preparing in the next year or two. I just am not one that pulls off planning my own thing. Well I will plan...and plan...and plan, but never carry it out. I did carry out MFW the 3 years I used it. We have also switched to schooling year-round so I don't feel so pressured to get everything done from Sept-May.
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momtofive
Re: questions about Bigger
First off, welcome to the HOD boards! All of the ladies here are great at explaining things and helping out! They really have hearts for the Lord.
I just wanted to chime in and say that I can really relate to what you were saying about the exhaustion you felt after MFW ECC. We did that very same program last year, too! I was completely exhausted after teaching it each day and did not feel like it was really reaching the hearts of my children. I felt like it had a "textbook" feel to it and we also felt the same way about Properties of Ecosystems (although, as a side note, I myself learned a lot from that book! ).
I had been praying and really giving it to the Lord, when I felt like we needed some changes to happen. I was so frustrated because I needed something: first, that centered Christ into our school day, second, was far less teacher intensive on my part, and third, had a good flow to the day and incorporated shorter lessons. With all of this said, I feel like we've found all of that and more with HOD. I have really seen God work in directing our path to this curriculum. I had all of my materials for the next year of MFW and many other lang. arts and math programs for each of my children. God provided ways for me to return all of it and get full refunds, even though I wasn't supposed to be able to because of the time that had lapsed since purchasing it. All of that said, if God really wants this for your school, He will most definitely provide peace about it and make a way for it to happen!
Next year we will be doing CTC with my 10 yr. old, Beyond with my 8 and 6 yr. olds together, and LHTH with my 4 and 2.5 yr. olds together. I thought this was going to be a lot for me to handle each day. But the great way that HOD lays it all out, it's totally manageable! I made up a rough schedule/routine for our day and to my delight, it all fit in there perfectly. I am so excited because not only are all of my desires for our little school being met, but Christ is truly going to be the center of our days, the children are going to be learning in such a great way, and I have most/all of the work done for me. No more exhaustion at the end of our lessons! I can finally be able to sit back when school is done for the day and know that ALL of our work got done and the children ( and myself) had a great day of learning together.
All I can say is that if you give all of your concerns about your situation to the Lord, He will most certainly answer those prayers and provide you with the situation that will work the best for your precious family! And please keep asking questions here. There are so many wonderful ladies that really want to help you find the best fit for your family.
Blessings as you decide,
~Lisa
I just wanted to chime in and say that I can really relate to what you were saying about the exhaustion you felt after MFW ECC. We did that very same program last year, too! I was completely exhausted after teaching it each day and did not feel like it was really reaching the hearts of my children. I felt like it had a "textbook" feel to it and we also felt the same way about Properties of Ecosystems (although, as a side note, I myself learned a lot from that book!
). I had been praying and really giving it to the Lord, when I felt like we needed some changes to happen. I was so frustrated because I needed something: first, that centered Christ into our school day, second, was far less teacher intensive on my part, and third, had a good flow to the day and incorporated shorter lessons. With all of this said, I feel like we've found all of that and more with HOD. I have really seen God work in directing our path to this curriculum. I had all of my materials for the next year of MFW and many other lang. arts and math programs for each of my children. God provided ways for me to return all of it and get full refunds, even though I wasn't supposed to be able to because of the time that had lapsed since purchasing it. All of that said, if God really wants this for your school, He will most definitely provide peace about it and make a way for it to happen!
Next year we will be doing CTC with my 10 yr. old, Beyond with my 8 and 6 yr. olds together, and LHTH with my 4 and 2.5 yr. olds together. I thought this was going to be a lot for me to handle each day. But the great way that HOD lays it all out, it's totally manageable! I made up a rough schedule/routine for our day and to my delight, it all fit in there perfectly. I am so excited because not only are all of my desires for our little school being met, but Christ is truly going to be the center of our days, the children are going to be learning in such a great way, and I have most/all of the work done for me. No more exhaustion at the end of our lessons! I can finally be able to sit back when school is done for the day and know that ALL of our work got done and the children ( and myself) had a great day of learning together.
All I can say is that if you give all of your concerns about your situation to the Lord, He will most certainly answer those prayers and provide you with the situation that will work the best for your precious family!
And please keep asking questions here. There are so many wonderful ladies that really want to help you find the best fit for your family.Blessings as you decide,
~Lisa
Re: questions about Bigger
This is a good question!Bramble wrote:I really am open to hearing more about LHFHG for my 5 and 7. You have me curious now. What does it have to offer them that they are not getting from what I posted above? ...
Thank you for sharing more about what you are doing with your 5 yo. LHFHG has intact some of the very things you are doing with your ds - phonics (your OPGTR), math skills with hands-on plans that use household supplies, handwriting practice, read-alouds, and Bible memory work. LHFHG also gives an excellent overview of history from Creation to present day, and it uses living books to do so. This gave our dc such an understanding of how Biblical history is part of world history, and also how "big" history is! These narrative history readings are connected with one art project each week, daily Rhymes in Motion, dramatic play, thinking games, Bible Study, and corresponding music. The Bible study has large motor skills included as well, which our sons loved! It helped them with these skills while making memorizing their Bible verse an active, fun thing to do. "Devotions for the Children's Hour" is the devotion that is paired with the Bible study once each week. We had some excellent (quite deep) discussions based on that devotional, and Bible Study/Devotion is one area especially that I've appreciated having separate during school time through the years. Each of our sons is at a very different place in their maturity level and faith, and the Bible discussions and studies we have between just one child and me have drawn out each of our dc's personal struggles, temptations, interests, passions, and hearts for the Lord. We too have a family Bible time each day (and we are also reading Vos' Bible
like you are - love it!), but the individual Bible times have really helped keep me in tune with each of our individual children's spiritual needs and goals. The science is also linked to the history, and the dc do 2 experiments a week. The experiments are not hard to get done, and the dc LOVE them. The book "The World God Made" is paired with the experiments and had beautiful pictures and text that show God's handiwork as our Creator. As dc mature, the guides focus on teaching the Scientific Method alongside of vivid living books - which has been an excellent way for our dc to learn science.
The read-alouds build upon each other and allow for plot/character development at a level young dc can enjoy and understand. Each of the Burgess books has the same forest animals in it, but each one focuses on a different one. So, for example, when my dc learned that Reddy Fox was somewhat of a shady character, every time he appeared in another book, they knew he'd "be up to no good".
They grew to love these books, enough so that when they could read them on their own, we finished out the set with any Burgess books we could find. The comprehension questions written for each day's worth of reading are well planned to build upon one another (according to Bloom's Taxonomy), and also encourage beginning oral narration skills. Much better than the questions I used to come up with on the fly! The hands-on math activities were also a big hit at our house. They are short, fun, and make doing the few pages in the workbook a breeze. All of our dc love math, and I know it is due to the way HOD teaches it.
Finally, LHFHG brought balance to our home. School took an appropriate amount of time for the littles (about 1 1/2 hours a day). They had history/science/Bible that was on their maturity level (not hearing anything little ears shouldn't hear
). They had the "fun" feeling of just playing to learn that is oh so important at those younger ages (i.e Rhymes in Motion, wiggly activities for Bible memorization, music and art that fit their abilities, activities linked to history, science experiments they could do themselves, etc.). LHFHG was the way I wanted to do school informally, making it fun, using great books, but keeping it light and focusing on development of the 3 R's. It was the best start to homeschooling.We actually did LHFHG and Bigger Hearts a few years back and enjoyed it very much. HOD honestly makes it easy to do 2 programs. We did 3 last year and were done in about 4 1/2 hours each day. We are loving our homeschooling so much with HOD! The dc enjoy school, and Christ is at the center of all they are learning. I still have time to be a wife too, and yet the dc are academically soaring. Please keep asking questions here until you come to an answer you feel is right for your home. I hope something here has helped!
In Christ,
Julie
Enjoyed LHTH to USII
Currently using USI
Wife to Rich for 28 years
Mother to 3 sons, ages 23, 20, and 16
Sister to Carrie
Currently using USI
Wife to Rich for 28 years
Mother to 3 sons, ages 23, 20, and 16
Sister to Carrie
Re: questions about Bigger
I'm just feeling really frustrated right now. (Not with any of you!)
I'm thinking of a totally different plan after reviewing my week with my oldest son (9 on July 9th!) I am constantly re-adjusting my expectations for him. Today for instance he did a phonics workbook page, which I figure should be done in 20 mins tops. I go through the entire page with him, he basically just has to write the answers out. It took him an hour. I sat next to him through most of it. DH says he understands and he was the same way, that DS' mind gets fragmented. I keep trying to do "okay, you are going to just focus on (cursive) for 10 mins, and then you can walk away." He will continually try to start a conversation with me in that 10 mins, and I keep re-directing, or he will look out the window, or start doing something else. Sitting next to him does not move him any faster. I really see that we need to build his attention skills and so I am wondering if we should do Beyond for the 9 and 7. I think Beyond would fit my 7 better and give my 9 the chance to build some skills in focusing. I also think that even though he has used MFW ECC and ADV, I didn't do a good job with the narration skills and I felt they started some LA skills too early. He was not ready for ECC. I knew it, but everyone over there assured me it was okay. It wasn't and I had to keep dropping things and dropping things. I don't want to keep pushing him, it doesn't help anything. I believe he needs some time to mature. Yet, he does need some challenge so I don't want to put him in Beyond if it really is beneath him.
going down the chart for my 9 yo:
age-Bigger
reading-either Beyond or Bigger
writing-he is probably about 50/50 here w/ Beyond and Bigger
grammar-probably Beyond, I'm not sure he is ready for guided writing lessons that coordinate w/ grammar.
math-he uses and loves R&S
Bible-not sure
history-not sure he is ready for all the work in Bigger, but not sure how much work there is exactly, should have Bigger in the mail soon. Not concerned about content.
science-again, not sure he is ready for the amt of work in Bigger, I think the content would be fine.
storytime-either or I think
poetry--not sure about the poetry study in BIgger
For my 5 yo, I could either continue what I am doing which I probably will for a few months at least, or use Little Hands to Heaven (which I already own but haven't used w/ him) with him and his almost 3 yo sister, but keep using my phonics and real-life math activities for 5 yo; or use MFW K (which I own) for Bible and science with my own reading and math (as above). I really don't want to be doing HOD programs back to back so would not really want to use LIttle w/ Beyond.
ETA: one of my sources of frustration is not knowing if I am expecting too much or too little of my oldest. I don't want to coddle him, but I don't want to frustrate him. I feel like the tears/frustration on his part are more insecurities/afraid to try/do new things, doesn't want to do seat-work, would rather play, etc. but maybe I am wrong and maybe it is like the Moore's say and he is just not ready. It is so difficult to know. He seems a lot like DH was as a child and DH says he wishes people would have been more no-nonsense and tough w/ him.
Thanks for your help. I appreciate it!
I'm thinking of a totally different plan after reviewing my week with my oldest son (9 on July 9th!) I am constantly re-adjusting my expectations for him. Today for instance he did a phonics workbook page, which I figure should be done in 20 mins tops. I go through the entire page with him, he basically just has to write the answers out. It took him an hour. I sat next to him through most of it. DH says he understands and he was the same way, that DS' mind gets fragmented. I keep trying to do "okay, you are going to just focus on (cursive) for 10 mins, and then you can walk away." He will continually try to start a conversation with me in that 10 mins, and I keep re-directing, or he will look out the window, or start doing something else. Sitting next to him does not move him any faster. I really see that we need to build his attention skills and so I am wondering if we should do Beyond for the 9 and 7. I think Beyond would fit my 7 better and give my 9 the chance to build some skills in focusing. I also think that even though he has used MFW ECC and ADV, I didn't do a good job with the narration skills and I felt they started some LA skills too early. He was not ready for ECC. I knew it, but everyone over there assured me it was okay. It wasn't and I had to keep dropping things and dropping things. I don't want to keep pushing him, it doesn't help anything. I believe he needs some time to mature. Yet, he does need some challenge so I don't want to put him in Beyond if it really is beneath him.
going down the chart for my 9 yo:
age-Bigger
reading-either Beyond or Bigger
writing-he is probably about 50/50 here w/ Beyond and Bigger
grammar-probably Beyond, I'm not sure he is ready for guided writing lessons that coordinate w/ grammar.
math-he uses and loves R&S
Bible-not sure
history-not sure he is ready for all the work in Bigger, but not sure how much work there is exactly, should have Bigger in the mail soon. Not concerned about content.
science-again, not sure he is ready for the amt of work in Bigger, I think the content would be fine.
storytime-either or I think
poetry--not sure about the poetry study in BIgger
For my 5 yo, I could either continue what I am doing which I probably will for a few months at least, or use Little Hands to Heaven (which I already own but haven't used w/ him) with him and his almost 3 yo sister, but keep using my phonics and real-life math activities for 5 yo; or use MFW K (which I own) for Bible and science with my own reading and math (as above). I really don't want to be doing HOD programs back to back so would not really want to use LIttle w/ Beyond.
ETA: one of my sources of frustration is not knowing if I am expecting too much or too little of my oldest. I don't want to coddle him, but I don't want to frustrate him. I feel like the tears/frustration on his part are more insecurities/afraid to try/do new things, doesn't want to do seat-work, would rather play, etc. but maybe I am wrong and maybe it is like the Moore's say and he is just not ready. It is so difficult to know. He seems a lot like DH was as a child and DH says he wishes people would have been more no-nonsense and tough w/ him.
Thanks for your help. I appreciate it!
Re: questions about Bigger
Your dc are blessed to have a mom so willing to contemplate what is truly best for them! I know placement takes some time and energy to work through, but then in the end when it's right, the whole year goes well because of it. It's so worth the effort, so I'm glad you are hanging in there and thinking this through carefully. 
I think you have arrived at an excellent placement. Your 7 and 9 yo in Beyond would be a good fit for so many of the reasons you shared. I depended on Beyond's plans to help me teach my dc narrating skills and listening skills. The plans were very effective at easing my dc into oral narrations and attentive listening in a way they could gradually grow into and build upon in the next guide, Bigger Hearts. Beyond's read alouds are very appropriate for a 9 yo too, and the amount of writing is less which would help your ds ease into it more before doing Bigger Hearts. We have a good many families doing Beyond with 9 yo's, many of them combined with younger siblings. I think it would be a great year for you and your 2 sweeties! LHTH sounds like a good combination for your 3 and 5 yo too, and I like your idea of continuing to add the LA/math you are doing for your 5 yo. Another option would be to use any of the LA/math K options from LHFHG that seem to fit your 5 yo, and then when you do LHFHG use the first grade options. But either of those LA/math options would work well!
I can feel your frustration here, and I'm so sorry you are feeling that way. Sometimes I can look back and see frustration was good as it lead to change that was better in the long run, but that doesn't make it any less painful when I'm in the middle of it.
I think that you are on the brink of an excellent placement for your dc though, I really do. I think you would find HOD to be a breath of fresh air. The CM short lessons concept appeals to dc of all ages, and it is done so well within HOD's plans. I think you would find it such a relief to just do the Beyond guide as it's written, and then add your LHTH after a few weeks or so. This kind of stagger starting is so effective and gives us moms time to establish a routine with one guide first.
I do think some dc need more attention than others because, well, their attention wanders.
I have 2 sisters, and all of us have a child or 2 that would fit that description, and all of us have had to realize that (those) child(ren) are just going to need some more training in diligence and perseverance (a.k.a mom by their side or checking in on them often ). I had the nicest time talking with the dh of one of the ladies on this board at a book fair, and he described himself in exactly this manner. He shared he loved to create as a child. One day he found liquid glue mixed with sand made a pliable material he could sculpt into buildings. So, he spent 12 hours in his sandbox making a city landscape of buildings. The neighbor called the newspaper, and they snapped a picture of it that went in the news. His mom was shocked to find out that's what he was doing with his sandbox! Anyway, he said there is hope for our little guys that are like that! He became an engineer, civil, I believe (fitting, right?). He is passionate about that job and has done so well with it, but he said he knows his strengths and weaknesses, and "diligence" and "perseverance" are his weaknesses. He shared his mother continually taught him these skills, and that helped so much. He said he still struggles with that, but has learned some "helps" (i.e setting deadline, shutting his office door and not going down to the break room to talk, minimizing his interruptions, etc.). Anyway, he is such a neat person - as is his wife - and his story encouraged me greatly! I hope it can provide some encouragement to you too!
Just keep thinking through it here until you come to a plan you have peace about, but I think you are very close to the right fit for your family. Oh, and about the better late than never thought, I think sometimes boys could choose the "never" if not prompted to choose the "now". 
I have 3 boys, and they like school very much, but they love their playtime/independence too. Given the choice, I think playtime/independent choices would win out a good portion of the time, and I've learned not to take that personally. There does have to be a time where they have to "get down to brass tacks", and my dh is usually good at pointing that out to me. It sounds like your dh has done the same, which may mean he's on to something there. Perhaps dh could be part of the cheering team and part of the reinforcements when you need them?!? I often come around to my dh's ideas, as he often comes around to mine - and usually, somewhere in the middle of all that, is the right fit for us. I hope something here helps!
In Christ,
Julie
I know placement takes some time and energy to work through, but then in the end when it's right, the whole year goes well because of it. It's so worth the effort, so I'm glad you are hanging in there and thinking this through carefully. I think you have arrived at an excellent placement. Your 7 and 9 yo in Beyond would be a good fit for so many of the reasons you shared. I depended on Beyond's plans to help me teach my dc narrating skills and listening skills. The plans were very effective at easing my dc into oral narrations and attentive listening in a way they could gradually grow into and build upon in the next guide, Bigger Hearts. Beyond's read alouds are very appropriate for a 9 yo too, and the amount of writing is less which would help your ds ease into it more before doing Bigger Hearts. We have a good many families doing Beyond with 9 yo's, many of them combined with younger siblings. I think it would be a great year for you and your 2 sweeties! LHTH sounds like a good combination for your 3 and 5 yo too, and I like your idea of continuing to add the LA/math you are doing for your 5 yo. Another option would be to use any of the LA/math K options from LHFHG that seem to fit your 5 yo, and then when you do LHFHG use the first grade options. But either of those LA/math options would work well! I can feel your frustration here, and I'm so sorry you are feeling that way. Sometimes I can look back and see frustration was good as it lead to change that was better in the long run, but that doesn't make it any less painful when I'm in the middle of it.
I think that you are on the brink of an excellent placement for your dc though, I really do. I think you would find HOD to be a breath of fresh air. The CM short lessons concept appeals to dc of all ages, and it is done so well within HOD's plans. I think you would find it such a relief to just do the Beyond guide as it's written, and then add your LHTH after a few weeks or so. This kind of stagger starting is so effective and gives us moms time to establish a routine with one guide first. I do think some dc need more attention than others because, well, their attention wanders.
I have 2 sisters, and all of us have a child or 2 that would fit that description, and all of us have had to realize that (those) child(ren) are just going to need some more training in diligence and perseverance (a.k.a mom by their side or checking in on them often ). I had the nicest time talking with the dh of one of the ladies on this board at a book fair, and he described himself in exactly this manner. He shared he loved to create as a child. One day he found liquid glue mixed with sand made a pliable material he could sculpt into buildings. So, he spent 12 hours in his sandbox making a city landscape of buildings. The neighbor called the newspaper, and they snapped a picture of it that went in the news. His mom was shocked to find out that's what he was doing with his sandbox! Anyway, he said there is hope for our little guys that are like that! He became an engineer, civil, I believe (fitting, right?). He is passionate about that job and has done so well with it, but he said he knows his strengths and weaknesses, and "diligence" and "perseverance" are his weaknesses. He shared his mother continually taught him these skills, and that helped so much. He said he still struggles with that, but has learned some "helps" (i.e setting deadline, shutting his office door and not going down to the break room to talk, minimizing his interruptions, etc.). Anyway, he is such a neat person - as is his wife - and his story encouraged me greatly! I hope it can provide some encouragement to you too! Just keep thinking through it here until you come to a plan you have peace about, but I think you are very close to the right fit for your family.
Oh, and about the better late than never thought, I think sometimes boys could choose the "never" if not prompted to choose the "now". I have 3 boys, and they like school very much, but they love their playtime/independence too. Given the choice, I think playtime/independent choices would win out a good portion of the time, and I've learned not to take that personally. There does have to be a time where they have to "get down to brass tacks", and my dh is usually good at pointing that out to me. It sounds like your dh has done the same, which may mean he's on to something there. Perhaps dh could be part of the cheering team and part of the reinforcements when you need them?!? I often come around to my dh's ideas, as he often comes around to mine - and usually, somewhere in the middle of all that, is the right fit for us. I hope something here helps!In Christ,
Julie
Enjoyed LHTH to USII
Currently using USI
Wife to Rich for 28 years
Mother to 3 sons, ages 23, 20, and 16
Sister to Carrie
Currently using USI
Wife to Rich for 28 years
Mother to 3 sons, ages 23, 20, and 16
Sister to Carrie
Re: questions about Bigger
You are such a GREAT mom! I can really tell that you want the very best for your kids. With all the amazing choices in hsing curricula, it's so hard to feel at rest with what we choose. I am a self-described curriculum junkie. I haven't hsed for long, but have looked at oodles of different approaches, companies, etc. I am sooooo glad to have found HOD early on in my "career." I really like the idea of using Beyond for your 7 and 9 dc. You seem to like the philosophy of not pushing kids too hard. Beyond is a wonderful program. I think it would suit your family's desires really well because it will cover all the bases and provide a wonderful learning experience while also allowing your dc to take the bunny trails that they seem to enjoy. You will have time for those nature walks, outside experiences, and budding interests. You will have time for extra-curricular activities. Here's my suggestion. Just do the HOD program EXACTLY as it is written. You may feel a strong desire to start crossing out, drawing arrows, and pulling other pretty items off your shelf. RESIST! It is old habit. Take the first several months to do HOD, and ONLY HOD, and just enjoy the simple learning that takes place. After a few months, if you feel as though the CHILDREN need more, then you can easily add in "extras." I think your easily-distracted boy will enjoy the short, interesting lessons and the opportunity for free afternoons! His attitude towards school will really improve. I hope these suggestions are helpful to you.
Laura
Laura
Wife to a great guy and mommy to:
Ds(15) - using WG and loving it!
Dd(11) - using Res.to Ref and having a blast!
Ds (3) - our joy!
Two little ones in the arms of Jesus - I can't wait to hold you in Heaven!
Ds(15) - using WG and loving it!
Dd(11) - using Res.to Ref and having a blast!
Ds (3) - our joy!
Two little ones in the arms of Jesus - I can't wait to hold you in Heaven!
Re: questions about Bigger
I thank you for your help and patience with me. 
My attitude earlier was not very good and I'm sorry for that, my3sons. I had a bad experience w/ the help at the other forum and I carried that on my shoulder when I entered here. Please forgive me.
I am feeling good about the Beyond placement. I have the lovely Bigger TM here that arrived today. I will just hold onto it till next year. I do have some questions (looking down the line further than I should.) If we end up loving HOD like I hope we will, will it be okay that my son will be doing the older guides one year older than the target range? into high school? I know I won't have to make a decision for a few years, but...well, you know how it is I'm sure. LOL
Should I still use R&S English 2 w/ my 9 yo this year?
I really do hope, Laura, that my son's attitude improves. The last 4 yrs have been really hard with him, which causes me to always be second-guessing myself, and a not so confident teacher gets eaten alive.
Thank you for your help and encouragement!!!! I've spent the evening looking closely at the books in Beyond and am very excited about it!!
My attitude earlier was not very good and I'm sorry for that, my3sons. I had a bad experience w/ the help at the other forum and I carried that on my shoulder when I entered here. Please forgive me.I am feeling good about the Beyond placement. I have the lovely Bigger TM here that arrived today. I will just hold onto it till next year.
I do have some questions (looking down the line further than I should.) If we end up loving HOD like I hope we will, will it be okay that my son will be doing the older guides one year older than the target range? into high school? I know I won't have to make a decision for a few years, but...well, you know how it is I'm sure. LOLShould I still use R&S English 2 w/ my 9 yo this year?
I really do hope, Laura, that my son's attitude improves. The last 4 yrs have been really hard with him, which causes me to always be second-guessing myself, and a not so confident teacher gets eaten alive.
Thank you for your help and encouragement!!!! I've spent the evening looking closely at the books in Beyond and am very excited about it!!
Re: questions about Bigger
What a very gracious thing to say! I have been very hurt by some of the dialogue on other boards too - it's brought me to tears several times over actually. I still read them now and then, but this board has become my home. I appreciate how it is run, and the ladies here just have such a Christ-centered attitude. We don't have perfect lives here, but we worship our Lord who is perfect! That makes all the difference - I guess we are striving to serve Him with joy here.Bramble wrote:I thank you for your help and patience with me.
A few years back, I had a couple at a book fair tell me that they realized they needed to be very careful what they were "putting in" their minds, whether it was uplifting things or whether it was discouraging things (Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Phi. 4:8). The dh shared how he used to love to read mysteries that were pretty graphic, for example. He said he loved the thrill and excitement of them, but over time he realized they really colored his attitude. He said he's more likely to read an inspirational book now. His wife shared she used to love to watch a certain t.v. show that was very funny, but that it always portrayed husbands as the bumbling not so bright guys. She realized she'd begun to think of her dh like that too (even repeating some of the negative phrases used in the show in her mind about her dh). Anyway, that short little talk I had with that couple must have been God-ordained, because it really made me think hard about what I was reading, watching, and listening to each day. One of the first things to go for me was visiting other boards. While it was sometimes informative, it was often discouraging to me, and I usually got off the board feeling very sad the Lord seemed to be missing from a lot homeschooling situations. I made other changes as well, that were small but packed a big punch.
Anyway, I just wanted to share this to let you know I understand, and I think you are going to be a wonderful addition to this board! I'm so glad you are feeling good about placement now! I wouldn't worry about your ds doing the older guides one year older than the target age range. You can always use the extensions if you want, but the older guides have great depth. We currently have moms using CTC and RTR for high school, along with upping the LA and math and sometimes science appropriately. The history along with its entire left side of the plans is very thorough and needs nothing added for more mature learners, other than the extensions if you so desire.Bramble wrote:I am feeling good about the Beyond placement. I have the lovely Bigger TM here that arrived today. I will just hold onto it till next year.
Yes, I think that's a good idea! A good many moms have their kiddos do R & S English mainly orally, saving around a third for the child to write. We do this as well and have found it to make grammar thorough yet time conscious (especially nice for the upper levels).Bramble wrote:Should I still use R&S English 2 w/ my 9 yo this year?
I do think your ds will appreciate the clipping along pace of Beyond, and it should only take him a few hours to do - always a hit with boys it seems.Bramble wrote:I really do hope, Laura, that my son's attitude improves. The last 4 yrs have been really hard with him, which causes me to always be second-guessing myself, and a not so confident teacher gets eaten alive.
Thank you for your help and encouragement!!!! I've spent the evening looking closely at the books in Beyond and am very excited about it!!
I'm actually so glad you are going to get to do Beyond. It is a nice place to begin HOD, and I think you'll enjoy it very much. In Christ,
Julie
Enjoyed LHTH to USII
Currently using USI
Wife to Rich for 28 years
Mother to 3 sons, ages 23, 20, and 16
Sister to Carrie
Currently using USI
Wife to Rich for 28 years
Mother to 3 sons, ages 23, 20, and 16
Sister to Carrie