Tuesday, June 8, 2010

Extras

Beware of homeschool conferences and conventions!! Their book fairs are so amazingly full of wonderful materials, that you will be tempted to try everything!! This year has been no exception in me getting overwhelmed with cool, new things. Some I know I can't do, but still think are awesome (My Father's World)...others, I will be incorporating into our school year (see below).

Our schedules are already hectic enough with 5 children and 3 of them doing school. Adding more than I have to is not the best idea all the time, but sometimes you just got to give it a shot! Here are some things I couldn't pass up and how I'll be incorporating them into our homeschool year.




Mind Benders by Critical Thinking Co.

Use during quiet time and free time. A great way to get your kids ready for logic. These are fun and age appropriate.



Wordly Wise 3000

Use during language arts instruction. An updated Wordly Wise is a great way to expand your child’s vocabulary skills.



Owl Pellets

One time use. We are planning a summer unit with friends. Each child gets an owl pellet to dissect.



My Father’s World Toddler and Preschool Kit

During school time. Mostly Lauri puzzles that are great for entertaining little ones while I do school with the older kids.



History Through the Ages Timeline Book and Figures from Homeschool in the Woods

Along with history. We’ve had the timeline figures CD since last year, but never used it. This year I got the timeline book and think that it will complement our studies nicely!



So any new, fun extras you've found this year? I'd love to hear about them!!

3 comments:

Stephanie R. said...

This is my first time commenting on your blog so: Hello there!

Just today I ordered the complete K-2nd Grade Hooked On Phonics Set for something to do with the kids this summer. I actually just wrote a short blog about the awesome deal I found on this normally $200 product.

http://roestelfamily.blogspot.com/2010/06/summer-reading.html

I really enjoy your blog. This was my first year homeschooling and it has been nice to read along with an experienced home educator.

Blessings,
Steph

Laura O in AK said...

Sometimes those little 'extras' can be great to fill a gap or provide a short break from the regular schedule.

I've been eyeing those history timeline figures for a while, but have yet to take the plunge. Why? Because I'm afraid they would sit unused!

Liz said...

@Stephanie: Thanks for the comment! I used Hooked on Phonics this past year with my oldest too (we switched from SSRW) and loved it. He is currently doing Master Reader and the other kids will be starting with Hooked on Phonics this year too. I'm glad Angelicum has decided to use them.

@Laura: Extras certainly do help fill in gaps! As for the timeline figures, I've had them for a whole year and am just now going to use them! I held off because I thought the kids were too young, but 3rd grade seems like a great time to start using them. I'm excited!! I know many who use Google Images to come up with figures to put on their own timelines. That would be a great way to save money and not feel guilty if you don't use them!

Liz

Cheers to Being Back!

It's been quite some time since I updated this little part of the blogosphere.  New adventures, new trials, and new seasons in life.  I&...