by Deborah Hanyon, MPH, RDN, ACE-CHC | Aug 7, 2021 | Cooking Tips, Education Materials, Food Allergies and Special Diets, Homeschooling, Nutrition and Health
Today, I'm going to tell you a little about Traditional Cooking School with Gnowfglins. This awesome online cooking school is not just about cooking. It's about healthy, homesteading, natural, back to basics, cooking. and I am in love with it!
According to the website Traditional Cooking School with Gnowfglins
“Gnowfglins” stands for:
G – God's (not man's creations)
N – Natural (not artificial)
O – Organic (raised without the use of chemical pesticides and fertilizers; raised without drugs, hormones, or synthetic chemicals)
W – Whole (not processed)
F – Foods (not synthesized chemicals)
GL – Grown Locally (not transported from far away)
INS – In Season (not out of season)
Traditional Cooking School with Gnowfglins is an online school with tons of different cooking classes. To introduce new members to her cooking school, Wardee Harmon, the owner, included one of her awesome classes, in the 2020 Ultimate Women's Wellness Bundle. This is how I learned of her, and this is what my review here is based on.
What stood out to me about Traditional Cooking School with Gnowfglins.
When I signed up for my account/membership, I kept forgetting where I put my log-in information. As a result, I kept going in through my Ultimate Bundle (UB) access link. This triggered an email from Wardee regarding whether I was having issues signing up. I also received a text on my phone. I let her know that I was already signed up but that I kept forgetting how to get in (forgot the name and such).
The school team was SUPER responsive and made sure that I had all that I needed to get in with no problems.
What I love the most is that, even though the original e-course I signed up for doesn't give me access to all the courses in the premium school,
I DO have access to a ton of stuff FOR NO EXTRA CHARGE.
For example, as you can see in the screenshot below, which is a picture of my membership page, there is an orientation course. This course helps the user get involved with the private group and it is complete with assignments and all. For example, the first assignment is to introduce yourself in the forum. I posted a couple of days ago and Wardee responded personally.
At this level you also have what is called a “Freebie Cupboard.” (See screenshots below). In this cupboard, I have access to all sorts of free cooking and recipe downloads.
Back to the e-course. I mean LOOK AT THOSE AMAZING DOWNLOADABLES THAT ARE INCLUDED at this level! Isn't that cool? The ones you can't see below the four FREE downloads shown include:
Bottom Line: You HAVE to check out Traditional Cooking School with Gnowfglins!
Click here now to grab a freebie or two.
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by Deborah Hanyon, MPH, RDN, ACE-CHC | Jul 1, 2021 | Getting Kids Moving, Homeschooling
A Parent’s Guide to Outdoor Safety
Warmer weather and vacation time from school means your kids are going to be spending a lot of time outside. While activities like picnics and pool time are among summer’s most treasured pastimes, the great outdoors can also be a breeding ground for potential hazards. With that in mind, make sure you take some precautionary measures to ensure your kiddos have a safe and healthy season.
Inspect All Playground Equipment
Jungle gyms, slides, and swing sets take a beating during the winter months, so it’s crucial that you thoroughly inspect all equipment to ensure it’s safe and in working order. Look for potential damage like rusty chains, weakened screws/joints, corroded metal, etc. If you don’t already own a swing set, make sure you do some research to ensure you’re purchasing a safe one.
Prepare for the Pool
If your little one doesn’t know how to swim — or they’re simply not a strong swimmer — get him/her a properly fitted life jacket. Also, make sure you check that any pool/beach equipment such as water wings and rafts are free from holes. And make sure they still fit and/or support the weight of your child. Experts suggest that four is a good age for kids to begin swimming lessons, so consider looking into offerings within your community.
Fence in Your Property
Keep little ones from wandering off your property with a protective fence. A fence can also prevent potentially aggressive animals from entering your yard. When searching for a fence installer, insist that they are licensed and insured and that they’re knowledgeable about your home’s underground utility lines. It costs $4,500 on average to install a fence, but costs will vary based on the materials you use, size of the fence, and cost of labor in your area.
Banish Bugs
Not only are bug bites annoying, but they can also be dangerous if there’s a life-threatening allergic reaction. Bug bites can also transmit pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, or parasites. The best way to protect your kids is by avoiding dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active. If this is not possible, make sure all exposed skin is covered with light clothing such as socks and closed-toe shoes. Make sure you always have a [eafl id=”36014″ name=”Amazon affiliate link for natural insect repellant bracelets for kids” text=”safe insect repellent”] on-hand, but don’t go higher than 10 percent for kids aged between six months to twelve years. Note that babies younger than six months should not be in contact with repellant of any kind, so keep them under netting if outdoors.
Protect Kids from the Sun
Getting a healthy dose of vitamin D is one thing, but getting a blistering sunburn is another. Protect your kids by limiting time spent outdoors between the hours of 10 and 4 when the sun’s rays are the most intense. Liberally apply an SPF of 15 or higher 30 minutes before time spent in the sun — don’t forget tender spots like nose, ears, the tops of feet, hands, and behind the neck.
Get a separate sun protecting product (like a balm) for lips. Make sure you’re reapplying the product every two to three hours (more if they’re sweating a lot) or immediately after coming out of the water. When they’re not in a suit, protective clothing, and accessories such as sunglasses, hats with brims, and dark clothing (wet, light-colored clothing mimics the skin when exposed to sunlight) is best — for babies, too. Some medications make the skin more sensitive to the sun, so be sure to check with your kid’s doctors if they’re taking anything.
Dangers of Overheating
Heat exhaustion or heat stroke (the more life-threatening of the two) are extremely serious conditions that should not be taken lightly. Symptoms include increased thirst and sweating, weakness, fainting, muscle cramps, nausea/vomiting, headache, clammy/cool skin, and an elevated body temperature — but no more than 104 degrees Fahrenheit. If your child is exhibiting any of these symptoms, immediately bring them to a cooler, shaded spot — preferably indoors. Remove any excess clothing and administer cool fluids that contain electrolytes such as a sports drink. Place a cool, wet cloth and/or water on their skin. If symptoms don’t improve or become more serious (think dizziness, confusion, extreme vomiting, elevated temperature), immediately head to the emergency room.
Small, preventative measures can make the time spent outdoors more enjoyable for everyone. The earlier you implement these safety measures into your kid’s lives, the easier it will be for them to adopt them. Just make sure you set a good example by following the same rules you place on your children.
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Alyssa Strickland created millennial-parents.com for all the new parents on the block. Alyssa believes the adage that it takes a village to raise a child, but she also thinks it takes a village to raise a parent! Millennial-Parents is that village. Today’s parents can be more connected than ever, and she hopes her site will enrich those connections. On Millennial-Parents, she shares tips and advice she learns through experience and from other young parents in three key areas — Education, Relationships, and Community.
Photo Credit: Pixabay
by Deborah Hanyon, MPH, RDN, ACE-CHC | May 28, 2021 | Getting Kids Moving, Homeschooling
Keep Up Dance Lessons at Home
Did the pandemic derail your or your child’s dance participation? Take heart! While nothing can replace professional in-studio sessions, you can devise a studio for your home that will take the edge off until the pandemic is a distant memory. What’s more, it could even become a flex room for your own fitness or hobby activities. Check out the following tips and resources so you can ensure those beloved dance sessions hardly skip a beat.
Build Your Repertoire
Nothing can compare with in-studio dance lessons. The insights of a professional dancer helping you hone your technique are invaluable, but you can use this opportunity to explore some new styles, bond and have fun!
- Keep on your toes with ballet.
- Spice up your youngster’s program with some basic Latin moves.
- Have a blast dancing to family-friendly tunes.
- Work on your waltz.
- Get groovy with disco.
Skills and Benefits
Now is the perfect time to not only build your repertoire, but it’s also an ideal opportunity to build family fitness. What’s more, it’ll help you get through the quarantine physically and mentally, and when you come out on the other side of things, you’ll be ready to take the studio by storm!
Your Personal Studio
Your in-home studio can be as large or as small as you need. For dance families, you might want to designate a room so everyone can practice together. Individuals might get by with a dedicated corner for practice.
- A garage or basement can be the ideal place for focused practice.
- If you can’t dedicate a bigger space, explore creative solutions for smaller rooms.
- Keep in mind that upgrades you make can be reflected in your home’s value.
- One solution is to add a mirror to your child’s closet doors and clear some floor space.
- You can get a mirror kit delivered to your home.
- Avoid bringing the virus home to your family when bringing in materials and supplies.
- If finding cleaning supplies is tough, there are safe DIY options.
The pandemic might have thrown off your family’s rhythm, but there is no reason to give up dance practice altogether. Your own family-friendly dance space is a chance to keep up motivation and fitness. Set up a room at home and have some fun with it!
Homeschooling Dietitian Mom is dedicated to promoting family well-being. For more information on education, nutrition, Bible study and more, connect today!
Alyssa Strickland created millennial-parents.com for all the new parents on the block. Alyssa believes the adage that it takes a village to raise a child, but she also thinks it takes a village to raise a parent! Millennial-Parents is that village. Today’s parents can be more connected than ever, and she hopes her site will enrich those connections. On Millennial-Parents, she shares tips and advice she learns through experience and from other young parents in three key areas — Education, Relationships, and Community.
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by Deborah Hanyon, MPH, RDN, ACE-CHC | May 24, 2021 | Cooking Tips, Homeschooling
5 Easy Homeschool Lunches for Kids
Under normal circumstances, your kids would be eating lunch at school, either a sandwich packed by you or a school-bought lunch. However, the past year of the pandemic required many schools to close, which means that parents have had to homeschool on top of working from home. To make matters worse, not only are you juggling homeschooling and virtual learning, but now you must create homeschool kids' meals every day.
If you’re scratching your head wondering what else to serve your kids, we’re happy to help refresh your recipe book. Here are some simple kid-approved lunches you can whip up while you’re homeschooling. Be sure to have your kids help out with the cooking — they’ll enjoy it and it’s nice to have extra hands in the kitchen, even small ones!
1. Broccoli Mac and Cheese
You can’t go wrong with mac and cheese, particularly not with this quick and easy recipe. Your kids love it and you love that it only takes 15 minutes to make. To make an even healthier option, add in more vegetables like sweet corn or peas and substitute gluten-free brown rice macaroni. Your kids won’t know the difference, but it’s better for them.
2. Chicken Salad Wraps
Your little ones are probably getting tired of ham and cheese sandwiches every day, so mix things up with this super simple chicken salad recipe. With only six healthy ingredients including chicken, mustard, mayo, celery, dill, and relish, this recipe is paleo and low carb. Serve on its own with a side of grapes or wrap the chicken salad in a whole grain or gluten-free tortilla.
3. PB & Strawberry Pita Pockets
There are endless ways to fill a pita pocket and they’re all fun. What food that you eat with your hands isn’t? This pita recipe in particular is a big winner with kids. It’s a twist on a PB & J and calls for peanut butter (or other type of nut butter), honey, sliced strawberries, and banana.
4. Tomato Penne Pasta
Do you have a fussy eater? Keep meals simple and streamlined, like a bowl of buttered penne pasta with parmesan cheese. If they are open to it, you can add a creamy tomato sauce, or serve it on the side. To make this dish healthier, you can use hidden veggie pasta or add vegetables into the sauce.
5. Cauliflower Pizza Bites
A twist on pizza, these cauliflower rice-based muffins are a hit with kids and adults. Along with the cauliflower rice and egg, you can fill your muffin cups with anything you would add to a pizza, from sausage to spinach. The best part is that they take less than 45 minutes to make!
Chloe Kirby is a writer and digital marketing professional. She earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree at McGill University in Montreal, Canada and her Master’s Degree at Goldsmiths University in London, England. Chloe has professional experience in e-commerce, digital marketing, and copywriting. For the last year she has been working in New York City.
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(Image source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/joyful-black-father-giving-high-five-to-adorable-daughter-5996905/)
by Deborah Hanyon, MPH, RDN, ACE-CHC | May 22, 2021 | Homeschooling
Does your child hate school? Mine does. Part of the reason for this is that he has a rough time with the writing process. He also has had an extremely difficult time learning his math facts, and spelling is a nightmare. We have tried so many things! Some have worked, some haven't. Based on my own experience, however, there are at least 10 ways I have found that encourage math and writing. Hopefully, at least one of these ideas will be new to you and will be helpful in your kids' educational journey. (Post contains affiliate links).
Going Back to Pre-School
Before I knew my son would continue to have issues with the mechanics of writing things down with a pencil, I tried to give him a head start by teaching him how to write. Unfortunately, I didn't get very far. I can still remember telling his kindergarten teacher before school started for the year that I had been trying to teach him, unsuccessfully, how to write his name. The problem was, HE WAS NOT WILLING. This is often the case with children who struggle with autism. Of course, I didn't know he had autism at this point. (We didn't get a diagnosis until last summer).
So by the time Nathan got into 1st grade, I was still fighting to get him to write his name. By the end of 1st grade, he had a diagnosis of ADHD, sensory processing disorder (SPD), developmental coordination disorder (DCD), and oppositional defiant disorder (ODD). (The ODD was dropped after he went on non-stimulant medication for his ADHD).
Despite the diagnoses, I still knew VERY LITTLE about how to deal with these issues.
Not only could I not get Nathan to write his name, I couldn't get him to write down more than a couple of words at a time. As a result, it would often take hours for him to finish his homework. (We were still in public school until the end of 3rd grade, and spelling homework was required every night, from 1st grade on).
Getting Creative
As a result of his unwillingness to cooperate with my “suggestions,” I had to start getting creative at encouraging math and writing. Like I said a minute ago, I had no real clue how to deal with Nathan's sensory and coordination issues. He had occupational therapy. However, I still found it difficult to get him to do the things the OT suggested. Oftentimes it seemed like a behavioral issue. And I did do my best to “follow the directions.” But it was so hard at times!
Behavior issue or not, when we got down to the nitty-gritty, ALL THAT MATTERED was helping him to be successful in school and in learning. This I felt completely inadequate in achieving at times. I read books, I went shopping at learning centers and other places where they sell teaching materials.
I've always had a thing for educational materials, even before I had a child. I've decided it must have been destiny. Because this love of seeking out new ways of doing things has helped me come up with some great ideas.
One of the first things I tried in 1st grade was letter stickers. For example, instead of making Nathan write down the words, I would have him use the stickers to practice his spelling words. This worked quite well, for a while.
Using Stickers for Spelling Worked Well.
Except that we had to keep buying more stickers. We'd run out of some of the more frequently used letters, such as “a” and “e,” A LOT! This can get expensive if you don't have a Dollar Tree around.
By the way, you can also use stickers for numbers, though I don't think I was desperate enough to need numbers at that point. (Issues with math came later)!
We were somewhat successful with the strategy of stickers. But we later found magnetic letters and numbers and a magnetic white board to be more cost effective (most white boards work). You still have to purchase extra copies for the frequently used letters, but overall, magnetic letters are less expensive. Especially if you have several kids. You can re-use magnetic letters for all your kids if needed.
We continued to use magnetic letters through 4th grade.
In fact, once we started doing school at home, I used this method for helping with bible verses. See pic at right for Bible verse Nathan made the very first week of 4th grade.
The main reason we stopped using the magnetic letters is because the words kept getting bigger and the sentences longer. It wasn't time-efficient by the time he reached 5th grade. However, everyone is different.
Plus, when Nathan started online public school, which is what we did for 4th, 5th and 6th grade, he used the computer more often, and became more tech-savvy. This created a new avenue in which to help with writing and math.
Times Tales
One of the most interesting things I have used to teach Nathan math is called, “Times Tales.” That worked–sort of. He learned some of his math facts this way, but I had to resort to other methods (think “calculator”), 🙁 because unfortunately, for him, the facts just don't stick.
I still think it's a great program, especially for kids who are “right-brained” or picture oriented. I also think it will work well for many kids with learning disabilities. You can find it and download a sample lesson here.
Using a Calculator
By 4th grade, it was becoming increasingly obvious that Nathan's inability to remember his math facts was interfering with his ability to move on to higher level math. I could clearly see he had an aptitude for math. He just couldn't get past those darn multiplication and addition numbers (and division and subtraction). I tried everything until finally I decided that he could use a calculator if the math he was learning was not actually the math facts, but other things such as geometry.
Like I said before, we were still in the public school, just the online version. Nathan had (and still has) an IEP (Individual Education Plan), so we had special education teachers available. His resource specialist agreed that using a calculator was fine when he wasn't learning multiplication and division, etc. So, they added it to his IEP.
Fast forward to today, he can give me math facts–but OH SO slowly!!
Today, for example, we were working on multiplication and division of exponents. He's been using Khan Academy since January, and sometimes he gets stuck. So, I was going over the work with him. He was following along when I tried to explain the steps to him (at least when he didn't get up and walk around). Anyway, we weren't using a calculator, so he had to give me the answers to things such as 10 squared, 6 divided by 3, 9 x -2, etc. He takes a long time to give me an answer, but he is able. So, calculators definitely help speed things up when necessary. By high school and college, he'll be using a calculator, so I don't see it being a problem.
I feel bad for the kids in the public schools who get stuck on multiplication, etc.,
And the school keeps them there and never moves them forward. Everyone has different strengths. And Nathan grasps geometry WAY easier (and tables, bar graphs, etc.) than basic math facts. It's important to me that he gets exposed to higher level math. So, I don't want his inability to completely master basic math facts to interfere with him learning High School Algebra and Geometry.
Online Math Games
This is a more obvious one if you have a kid who likes to play computer games. My son doesn't (can you believe it)? So, he just thinks it's more work when I try to assign math “games.”
Still, here are a few of my favorites. They are all free:
Cool Math Games
Math Playground
Fun Brain
Cool Math 4 Kids
Fact Monster
Khan Academy
We've started using Khan Academy for math since after Christmas. It's free and it has blackboard teaching videos that are really easy to follow. You can skip around, pick what your child needs to practice, or use it as a full curriculum. There are other subjects as well, though it is secular, so if you're a Christian, you probably won't appreciate the history and science as much.
Escape Room Puzzles
This is another way to break up the monotony of the same math homework every day. It can get costly, however. We used 3 different Escape Room Puzzles in December to review ratios, exponents, and fractions. They had a Christmas theme which made them seem a little more fun. My son learned other skills doing these puzzles as well. He had gone into Google, for example. He doesn't have a lot of experience with Google because we are Office people. It was good for both of us to use Google, since a lot of people are using it as well.
Manipulatives
In December, I assigned Nathan several projects that required him to build. For example, I had him create a geometric snowman from a free pattern offered at http://www.minieco.co.uk/. He also created a Sierpinski Fractal Christmas tree (math art). Nathan did an awesome job on both the snowman and the tree and didn't even complain.
The pattern for the tree was provided on the project website (did I mention it was free)? He had to cut out and put together each triangle, and then glue them together. I helped with a few of the triangles because it was a bit tedious. Here is a picture of his completed tree on my Instagram. (Don't forget to follow me :)) There is a principle behind these triangles:
A Sierpinski Triangle
“A Sierpinski Triangle is a mathematically generated pattern in which self-similar shapes are repeated across different scales in a never-ending feedback loop.” Look it up and you and your kids will all learn something!
Many kids don't understand why they are learning math because it is so abstract and seemingly other worldly. Using manipulatives with younger kids is expected. But with older kids, it is helpful as well. For example, building things, such as what I just mentioned, and having students complete other interesting projects such as building taco trucks and zoos (I have seen stuff like this on Teachers Pay Teachers-and plan to get one eventually for my son to use). Click here to see an example.
Hands-on Manipulatives are a great way to teach practical math skills. In addition, manipulatives encourage hands-on learning, reinforce previously learned math facts, and allow for creative (think ART) expression.
Whiteboards and iPad, or Other Tablets
That have blank sheets to write on are great for writing out math problems and for spelling tests, especially if you have a child who hates using a pencil. Plus, you save paper this way. I talk about other strategies I have used here.
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by Deborah Hanyon, MPH, RDN, ACE-CHC | Apr 4, 2021 | Education Materials, Homeschooling, Homeschooling High School
High School Graduation Tips for Homeschoolers
Some of you have asked for High School Graduation Tips and how to know that you are meeting the requirements for your state. Since my son is in 9th grade this year, and since I know it is a big deal that he gets a true valid diploma, I started planning and organizing when he was going into 7th grade. Middle school was sort of a practice run, because it’s not “official” the way high school is. (Post may contain affiliate links).
The other day, I was thinking, “My little system is working so well!” I purchased this little portable file cabinet on wheels, and it has been super helpful.
For example, I can move it out of the way when I’m not using it, which is a HUGE deal because we are living in an apartment that is less than 1000 square feet.
As a result of my system working and giving me confidence, I decided to share it with you. Hopefully, you’ll get some new ideas that will help you feel more organized and on top of things.
The little file cart I purchased was less than $50 and I organize it like I would any other file cabinet. Since I only have one child, some of this might be a little simpler for me. However, what I do is I start with 8 1/2 by 11″ hanging folders. I label them by main subject. For example, Math, English, Social Studies, etc.
The sub-folders I have created include teacher notes, answer keys, to do work, and work completed. You may have other ideas for that. If you have more than one child, you could create more folders (and have a bigger file cabinet (they have bigger ones than I one I’m using).
When I first decided to homeschool, I discovered HSLDA. This stands for “Homeschool Legal Defense Association.” HSLDA is the oversight organization in the United States. They can help you get off to a good start. They have lots of resources, and if you become a member, they will even defend you in court if need be.
I haven’t needed them for legal defense, but have picked up some ideas through their site. And, particularly because Nathan is in High School, I want to keep tabs on what HSLDA has to say as they are usually on top of changes in homeschooling laws.
One of the things HSLDA recommends is researching the specific academic requirements of your state.
My state is Oregon. So, I just typed in “Oregon High School Graduation Requirements 2023” and looked for the information. This is what I got. I am using the basic table from this site to help me with my planning. (It hasn’t updated since I last checked. However, I will keep checking every year, just in case)
In the state of Oregon, in order to graduate with the standard diploma, Nathan has to take three years of math. However, the three years include Algebra 1 and beyond. I chose to enroll him in pre-algebra this year so that he would more easily be able to master Algebra. This means he will get a total of four years of math (he is not happy about this).
I’m okay with this, because even though he hates math, he is not terrible with math. His biggest issue is math facts, and quite possibly, if he would have remained in traditional school, he would be further back than he is currently. He can understand the concepts, and when he has a calculator, he can deal with his difficulties with math facts.
After all, a calculator will only give you a correct answer if you enter the numbers in correctly.
In addition to math, Oregon requires:
- Four credits English/Language Arts (years=credits).
- At least three years/credits of science
- One of the science classes needs to include a lab
- Also, three years of social science
- One credit/year of physical education (PE)
- One credit/year of health
- Three credits/years of either a second language or other arts career and technical education
- Six elective credits
Total of 24 credits, divided by 4, is 6 credits per year, which would be 3 credits per semester.
And one credit/year is equal to 150 to 180 hours (can be as low as 120, depending on the course).
If you’re homeschooling, this is a really good thing to know. Knowing the specifics will make it much easier to plan and also to reassure yourself that your child is doing what he or she needs to do to meet the minimum requirements for graduation.
It’s good to get an idea of the number of hours so you can determine about how much time your child should be spending in school each day as well. You can take the 150 hours, divide it up into the number of school days planned, and voila you have an average amount of time to spend each day.
Of course, you can adjust as necessary throughout the year—it is not set in stone.
And I don’t keep track of every little hour, I simply get an idea for how much time he is spending—or better yet, if he completes the reading and other assignment, it counts as an hour or whatever time—even if he didn’t actually spend that amount of time to finish.
Speaking of which. If you have a child that consistently completes assignments more quickly than average and is highly motivated, you should consider a higher level diploma (I don’t know what it’s called, but I believe that in Oregon there are three levels, standard diploma, adjusted, and higher requirement diploma).
When you are planning your semester or year, keep in mind extra-curricular activities. For example, if your child is taking piano lessons for 2 hours a week (plus practicing in-between lessons), include this time in the total hours spent in music and give your child credit for the time spent. And if you like, you can add some written work to the “class,” like an essay on a particular composer or something similar. Once your child completes the required minimum hours (150+), then you can add 1 credit of music to his transcript.
An example in our house is that my son is involved in puppet ministry at our church. He spends, on average, 3 hours per month at his meetings, at least 1-hour (ideally) practicing for the performance, and another hour prepping before the performance. He is involved year-round. So, by the end of 4 years, he will have earned 1 credit in drama (.25 credit per year x 4 years = 1 credit).
So, make sure you give your kiddos credit for their extra-curricular activities as you deem appropriate.
In addition to Drama, Nathan is currently enrolled in
- Pre-algebra
- Bible
- 9th Grade English
- Social Studies and Geography
- Life Science
- PE
- Math
This year he is taking a Cinema Studies class for 9th grade English. It’s a great experience, watching classic movies, and then discussing and writing about them. This class is working out wonderfully because it involves movies instead of books; 2 movies per month (each movie counts as one novel).
Some of the movies we’ve watched so far include Casablanca, Places in the Heart, Rudy, and High Noon. We are also reading on the side, and I assign writing related to the topics we are learning. For example, when we were studying the presidents at the beginning of the semester, Nathan wrote two essays on two different presidents.
We also read on the side.
For example, before bed. I read to him. There are many reasons why I read to him. First of all, he likes it when I read to him. Second of all, I read faster than he does. Third of all, I honestly believe that when you read to your children, it really helps them build their vocabulary. It also helps develop listening skills and develops their imagination. I especially love reading historical fiction because it makes the real story and real person come to life in ways that an ordinary textbook can’t do. Lastly, if gives us time together.
So, there are LOTS of awesome reasons and excuses to read to your children!
For science, Nathan is reading “The Grand Experiment” Parts 1 and 2. We’ve already finished the first book! He is super smart in science. So, I’m going to have to consider what we are going to do for the rest of the semester!
We’ve studied several Christian martyrs in Social Studies with the assistance of Schoolhouse Teachers and Torchlighters. We also read the book, “When Lightning Struck,” which is a historical fiction/biography written through the eyes of Martin Luther.
This book was written by Danika Cooley. It was really well written and we both enjoyed it! Martin Luther was indeed a complex individual.
For PE, Nathan is signed up for a one-hour class at the local recreation center, “PE for Homeschoolers,” and we drag his reluctant butt to the gym two times a week for weight training (not his favorite thing to do :D).
And last, but not least, Nathan spends 15 hours a week with his ABA therapist. This is most DEFINITELY Life Skills. And I am most definitely giving him credit for the work he is doing. (Not sure how much, but definitely some credit).
Hold on a Second!!! How Am I Supposed to Record All of Those Classes and Hours Without Getting a Headache?
This is where Applecore comes in!
I have all sorts of resources that I’ve gathered from all different places. However, whenever I’m stuck on a subject, and to help with organization and direction, one of the places I go to is SchoolhouseTeachers.com. And I use Applecore system for transcripts and scheduling.
Applecore makes it really easy (not an affiliate).
For example, at the beginning of the year I utilized Applecore to create his course overview (see picture at right). This shows which subjects he’s taking and how much credit he’s going to earn as a result of completing the course by the end of the year (or the end of the semester).
Then I add his schedule for Monday through Thursday plus Friday for life skills what he’s doing every day. Note that I did this mainly for record keeping purposes. I find that in the day-to-day flow of things, it’s much easier to have a hard copy schedule that I can go to plan my day and week.
And last but not least, there’s attendance section (see picture below).
You can just mark attendance based on every day that your child is in school. If you do this, you will have a permanent record which is really nice. And there is no need to update it every day. Once a week, or even once a month, will do.
I actually paid extra for the Applecore Gold because of the fact that Nathan is in high school.
I was already at silver level because you get Applecore silver for free if you subscribe to SchoolhouseTeachers.com
One of my favorite things about Applecore is that it’s online, on their server. So, I don’t have to worry about losing it.
However, if you prefer to keep track offline, then this is another reason to consider SchoolhouseTeachers.com.
Schoolhouse Teachers is always a good deal, but at certain times of the year you can get even better deals for membership. And they are also a great source for high school graduation tips.
Plus, if you have multiple kids, you only have to buy one membership for the whole family! And there are classes for adults as well. For example, Graphic Design, How to Start a Business, stuff like that.
In regard to scheduling, Schoolhouse Teachers can also help you with this. For example, once you join you have access to their HUGE planners, which are updated yearly. Plus, the awesome digital magazine, Old Schoolhouse, and a free subscription to World Book Online.
The planners are available for high school and elementary level. Though I think the high school level might only be available if you have a high school membership, which is a little bit more, because it includes EVEN MORE stuff.
Anyway, lots of choices for you to consider and hopefully the high school graduation tips for homeschoolers in this post are helpful to you!
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See pic at right for Bible verse Nathan made the very first week of 4th grade.
