{what we are using}

We are not kitchen-table-learners. In the very beginning, for a very short time – we were. And then our my philosophy changed.

We love to explore.

I love watching the kids learn when they don’t even realize that they are learning. We are by nature curious creatures, ya know?

We, as parents, are more interested in them living and learning. Not memorizing the test-eligible-questions. Our kids {therefore our family} are happier when we are relaxed. But I also find comfort in some kind of structure. A routine, if you will.

Good plans shape good decisions.
That’s why good planning helps to make elusive dreams come true.

We don’t live by any book. We will never allow a book or curriculum define our day. Rather we will use it as a guide. A tool to learn. We find freedom in the choice to pick and choose subjects to study, and don’t ever want to miss real learning opportunities because we are tied to a curriculum.

Here is a quick overview of some of the main resources we have chosen as a family to use during this season::

Math ~ Teaching Textbooks – Both kids, namely the eldest, had plateaued and were in a math rut. These books completely changed our their attitudes.

History ~ We are reading Story of the World Volume 1 – Ancient Times (See all Children’s Ancient History Books). We also seem to have an ongoing study of The United States – geography, Presidents, civics, etc. {a certain little boy has always claimed he will one day be President and make smoking illegal. yes, this is one of those examples of following a child’s interest}

Science ~ Well, here’s a subject where we don’t limit ourselves. Below are some of our favorite tools and resources we use for Science. 

Handwriting ~

Music ~ Quaver’s Music {would you have thought it to be anything other??}

Spanish ~ La Clase Divertida – Level 1; this is a new addition to our home as of March 2011. The kids are huge fans of this program, actually asking to *do* it. Therefore, I am one happy momma with it too.

Vocabulary ~ We are using Dynamic Literacy’s Word Build Foundations. Maggie has begun with Foundations I and Nicholas with Elements I.

Computer Programming ~ Nicholas has (on his own) been learning to write code (html) for a year+. Recently, Bryan came across KidCoder Series. This is a self-study programming course using the Visual Basic language.

Leadership ~ THE GOAT PROGRAM™ is an interactive based program designed to teach three key life skills: Goal Setting, Problem Solving, & Time Management through imagery. In addition the program teaches participants how to identify and overcome two additional abstract concepts: their limiting beliefs and excuses they use to not succeed, and the negative influences they face each day that can distract them from success. (source)

soaking up every moment of this adventure….