Reading Aloud

Reading aloud to our kids is one of the unique pleasures of home
education. I hope that you read aloud to your children. 

I hope you do it
every day. 

There is no doubt about it, homeschoolers are a lucky bunch!  One of the things that our family enjoys is reading together each night.  Although the kids are 9 and 13, we don’t feel that the day is “complete” until we spend some time on the couch together!

While I’m reading, of course I use the different voices (I do a great KGB bad guy…).  But I also stop every so often and talk about a vocabulary word, talk about locations, motivations, even about character development.  My kids enjoy these breaks because I hear them talk about them later in other conversations.

So, as a mother, I am proud to introduce the kids to various poets, literature, biographies, short stories, even Mad Libs make a great night time reading experience!  It is truly one of the best times of the day.  I know that you will agree, a good deal of bonding goes on…behind the pages!

Homeschool Siblings

Many people are writing, writing, writing about homeschool. The process, the problems, the resources, the pros and cons. But few people have written about something that I think is a prime PRO of homeschooling. My children are friends with each other!
I’m not comparing, bragging, anything! Just observing.

My kids enjoy one another. They share some interests and have learned to respect the interests of their sib and to participate in that activity at times. Look, when other kids are here…FORGET IT! The boys go hither and the girls go yon. (well, sort of!) But when the kids have free time together, they actually enjoy one another’s company!

Their bond has happened in spite of differences in gender, interests, age. They include one another and share many secrets, inside jokes, and expressions of affection. They seek one another out for help, advice, humor sharing, lesson help, hold hands, and simply enjoy being together. They even play together, at times, when friends are over visiting one or both of them. Maybe it comes from the simple fact that they spend more time together.

Add to this, when one has a friend, that person is also a friend to the other as well. Now, isn’t that nice?

It wasn’t like that in my family! We had lines through the rooms, separate everything, and frequent fights. I firmly believe that it is a homeschool environment that doesn’t create unnatural divisions that has encouraged their friendship. They have their moments. They are, after all, very different and very busy. But, overall the bond between this brother and sister is a wonder to see.

If they were in school, would I see a different story? Would Elizabeth find it cool ONLY to hang with the 13 year olds? Would John refuse to every touch anything “girly”, thereby forfeiting his play with his sister? I can only guess that the division between them would have happened long ago and would be firmly in place at this point.

I heard laughing in the family room the other day. I walked in to find them pushing the couch across the room, laughing at themselves as they slipped and slid onto the floor. I walked out of the room with a smile in my heart and on my face, leaving them alone, together.

And I’m not going to kid you, this “perk” of homeschooling is worth everything to me!

Lifelong Learning

 

I wanted my home, our homeschool experience, to produce two children with the ability and desire to become a lifelong learners. What do I mean by this? I’m not sure an official definition of “lifelong learner” exists, but I think of it as including:

• Active Researcher: I hope my children will learn to FIND OUT whenever they have an interest, question, or new topic of interest. I hope they learn to enjoy the process of research and use that process to seek out information for decision-making and better understanding. I hope the habit to LOOK IT UP becomes so natural to them that begin researching as soon as the notion gains more than a murky part in their thinking.
• Critical Thinker: I hope my children learn to use a logical series of strategies to analyze and determine the validity of incoming information. Will they seek new information with a degree of skepticism, with an expectation that there will be proof behind factual statements? I hope they do.
• Effective Communicator: Superior written and verbal communication is the hallmark of a well-educated person. I hope my children work hard in their lives to facilitate good communication. Will it be a priority to express themselves clearly and completely? I certainly hope so.
• Self-Directed Learner: I want the kids to seek information on their own, without being told, assigned, or otherwise having outside expectations that promote the activity. I hope that their curiosity becomes active, dynamic, and endless. Free of assigned work, will they read and read some more to satisfy their interest? I hope so.

It seems to me that using real-world scenarios and situations to practice these skills goes further to create lifelong learners than any classroom set up could ever do. Our world today is incredibly information rich! It is incredibly exciting to be able to look for, and find, interesting information without any intermediary dishing it out. The worldwide web is a marvel!
If my children become lifelong learners, no matter what else they accomplish in their lives, I think that our homeschool experience will have been a success!

Should We Homeschool?

Should We Homeschool?

I’m not going to kid you, homeschooling is not always an afternoon in the park.  It takes commitment!  It can take cash!  It takes time and heart.  Okay, so it’s not perfect.  Here is a list that I have gathered from here and there on WWW of the “negs” and “pos” of homeschooling.  When I get a moment, I will come back and reply to those that need it!

Homeschooling Negatives

1. Socialization – some families are simply not terribly “SOCIAL”.
2. Reduced income – generally one parent has to give up work.
3. Upper level courses and exams can be harder to organize.
4. With your child all the time.
5. Child could be indoctrinated.
6. Full responsiblity for child’s education
7. Participation in team sports may be more difficult.
8. Constantly required to justify your decision.
9. May need to juggle different age groups.
10. Have to still cope with the child’s education during emergencies.

Advantages

1. Socialization – children can choose friends that suit them.
2. Freedom from peer pressure.
3. Education matched to child.
4. Flexible scheduling.
5. Able to instill family values.
6. Testing or not to suit family philosophy.
7. More time spent together as a family.
8. More relaxed – no queueing outside classrooms or school activities
9. 1 on 1 attention for child.
10. Curriculum can be extended over infinite time.

Not Back-to-School Shopping

There is a conspicuous feeling all around us right now, and it’s not related to the cicadas, nor to the freaky gas prices, nor to the hell-like temperatures with it’s accompanying lightheadedness. Kids up and down the street and all over the town are being shuttled by their parents to stores for that annual nightmare called BACK TO SCHOOL SHOPPING!

School supplies, school clothes (new clothes, socks, shoes and underwear that will get the kids off on a fresh start into their new year), school lunch boxes, sleek folders, markers for the teacher, perforated notebooks, crayons for the classroom, bottles of Elmers, packs of unsharpened pencils, construction paper for the classroom shelves, boxes of Kleenex, colored markers, loose leaf paper, tape, three-ring notebooks, binders, pencil boxes, fun-shaped erasers, stickers, scissors, and paper towels for the teacher. Parents are wandering the aisles carrying the lists from their school districts that tell them what they need to buy, right down to the type of paper towels or Germ-X the teacher appreciates.

I'm thrilled that I don’t have to tote that list around and cross off items as they are found and plunked into the cart. And I also don't have to feel angry that my school district cannot 'afford' basic supplies for the classroom.  

I'm not feeling rushed. I'm not feeling a strain on the checkbook. The kids are not trying to adjust their sleep schedule to better fit the 7 a.m. craziness that would ensue if we had to get out of the house at 7:30 to make it to the school building on time. OH, that obnoxious morning night mare is NOT FUN!

We don’t pack lunches, look for missing school work, try to match shoes, go on hunts for umbrellas, gloves, backpacks, socks, clean jeans, phone numbers, lunch money, watch for the bus, run back in to brush teeth, try to get food into nervous, upset, and/or rushed stomachs, rush out into unpleasant weather, make sure our children have a key to the house, knowledge of after school plans, or forget that hair wasn’t brushed before leaving the house.

We don’t have those heinous fund-raising activities that come with the beginning of the year, PTA expectations, permission slips to sign, drives to and from the school, administrative politics, district issues, calls from the school nurse, or passwords for online classroom resources. And I don’t have that sense that summer is over too quickly and I’m about to lose my kids again, putting them into complete control of the local school and it’s environs. IN TWO WEEKS!

NO!  Instead, all of that energy is focuses on the kids! Time is spent with one another. And lessons are always in the house, right where they will be needed.

We are excited about school starting this year. There are innumerable benefits to homeschooling, some of which are quite obvious, more of which are subtle and satisfying. This time of year, the reasons I love homeschooling begin with the obvious:  not going to school!

Passing this Along

I found a link to an EXCELLENT link.
http://skepticalteacher.wordpress.com/2011/07/27/tam9-skepticism-in-the-classroom-workshop/

At TAM, The Amazing Meeting, this year in Las Vegas, Michael Blanford put on a talk about skepticism in the classroom.  I've been listening to it as I have the time and I love it.  Too little, too late?  NEVER!

Baby name

I just read briefly about this baby name in New Zealand:
http://oddnews.yahoo.com/video-odd-news-26069960

The odd thing isn't the baby name, it's that the state of New Zealand is thinking that they need to approve the name!
Is there NOTHING better to worry about?

Books and other stuff for your Lively, Loving Heathen Children

 

I've been wanting to post a longer version of my previous book list.  A friend recently posted this extensive list and so, THANKS RAYVEN, I'm copy/pasting her list here now.  

I have added a few titles myself, those in red and a few links in blue.

These are just some of the items I have come across, I’m sure as the free-thought community continues to grow we will have the pleasure of more materials to aid us in our parenting.  Never underestimate the power of a library card either.  Lining your local library are books by Thomas Paine, Isaac Asimov, George Orwell, and Ayn Rand just to name a few, all of which offer older children a wealth of knowledge and plenty of ideas to mull over and consider.

Books, CDs, and DVDs (For Children)

• The Story of Everything by Neal Layton
• Born with a Bang: Book One by Jennifer Morgan
• From Lava to Life: Book Two by Jennifer Morgan
• Mammals Who Morph: Book Three by Jennifer Morgan
• Marduk the Mighty And Other Stories of Creation by Andrew Matthews
• The New York Public Library Amazing Mythology: A Book of Answers For Kids by Brendan January
• Maybe Yes, Maybe No by Dan Barker — my oldest has read this a few times on his own accord and loves it.  It is very easy to read and promotes seeking out honest, truthful answers.
• Maybe Right, Maybe Wrong by Dan Barker
• Humanism, What’s That?: A Book for Curious Kids by Helen Bennett
• What Darwin Saw: The Journey That Changed The World by Rosalyn Schanzer

The next four books are graphic novels and I would recommend the last one by Mark Schultz for older children — about 10 and up-depending on the child’s interest — due to the heavy science content which younger children may find a bit long, boring and difficult to digest.

• The Sandwalk Adventures by Jay Hosler
• Optical Allusions by Jay Hosler
• Clan Apis by Jay Hosler
• The Stuff of Life: A graphic guide to genetics and DNA by Mark Schultz
• Here Comes Science by They Might Be Giants CD/DVD combo — we absolutely love this CD/DVD combo.  Their song Science is Real features the following lyrics: “I like the stories about angles, unicorns, and elves-Now I like the stories as much as anybody else-But when I’m seeking knowledge-Either simple or abstract-The facts are with science-The facts are with science” I can’t think of better lyrics to jam to on a lazy Saturday afternoon and the children love it!

Books for Parents

• Parenting Beyond Belief by Dale McGowan
• Raising Freethinkers: A Practical Guide for Parenting Beyond Belief by Dale McGowan, Molleen Matsumura, Amanda Metskas, and Jan Devor
• Living in the Light: Freeing Your Child from the Dark Ages by Anne R. Stone

Websites and Blogs for Parents

• Foundation Beyond Belief
• The Ethical Society of St. Louis’ Resource Page
• The Meming of Life — Dale McGowan, the man behind Parenting Beyond Belief and Raising Freethinkers, writes this blog.  If you check his “links” section you will discover a long list of useful books, CDs, and DVDs to help in raising a happy freethinker.
• Homeschooling Freethinkers — is a great website for those who are using “alternative” education.  This is the route our family has taken and Homeschooling Freethinkers is the first site I check whenever I’m looking into new materials.  There is also a Facebook group for freethinking homeschoolers.
• Greater Good: The Science of a Meaningful Life
• http://www.atheistnexus.org/profiles/blog/list 
• http://dysfunctionalhomeschooler.blogspot.com/ 
• http://scienceblogs.com/pharyngula/ 
• http://www.patheos.com/blogs/friendlyatheist/ 
• http://skepchick.org/ 
• http://atheists.org/blog/ 
• http://unreasonablefaith.com/ 

Science Based Parenting

• Charles’ Playhouse — they sale quality evolution products, including an amazing play-mat timeline and clever apparel for all ages.
• Podcast for Parents
• Parenting Within Reason
• Happiness Matters Podcast
• The Greater Good Podcast — Both Happiness Matters and The Greater Good podcasts are run by The Greater Good Science Center.
• http://doubtreligion.blogspot.com/ 
• http://dogmafreeamerica.libsyn.com/ 
• http://www.irreligiosophy.com/ 
• http://www.theskepticsguide.org/ 
• http://www.talkorigins.org/

EVERYTHING above (minus those in red or blue) are copied from this website:  http://www.atheistunderworld.com/blog/

I was enjoying it and thought to pass it along! 

Growing Them Slowly

I am struck by the fact that the more slowly trees grow at first, 
the sounder they are at the core, 
and I think that the same is true of human beings. 
We do not wish to see children precocious, 
making great strides in their early years like sprouts, 
producing a soft and perishable timber, 
but better if they expand slowly at first, 
as if contending with difficulties, 
and so are solidified and perfected. 
Such trees continue to expand with nearly equal rapidity 
to extreme old age.

-Henry David Thoreau

Completely stolen from:   http://blog.aninspirededucation.com/

Whatcha Googling? MOHS and IEP

The top two Googled phrases that get people to this blog are:

• homeschool missouri

• introvertedly extroverted people

 Interesting, isn't it?!

It makes sense that other Missouri homeschooling parents are out here on the net looking for as much specific reality-based information as possible.  I do the same thing!  I have found blogs to be so TOTALLY interesting sometimes!  I have a few favorites that I keep up with enough to be inspired, informed, connected, and entertained.  Here are some favorites:

http://thisadventurelife.wordpress.com/

http://www.secularhomeschool.com/content/
http://mrsaholmesfam.blogspot.com/?zx=cf4e18deefbdba3e
http://www.bravewriter.com/

As for "introvertedly extroverted people" (IEP, as I have created for this blog piece), there's not much out there.  As least not using these very professional sounding words...LOL.

I can't be different.  I don't want to be different.  But, there it is.  I'm an introverted extrovert.  IEP.

I am totally capable of standing in front of a large group and talking for an hour.  But get me in front of an intimate group, I can't stand up and stand out for anything!

I found a webpage on this little label and it was interesting, but not very enlightening.  I found it a bit false and psychobabbly.

AND SO, I have written a bit about IEP myself, from my own experience and observation:

In general, I find that a person who is "introvertedly extrovert" is more likely to be out of the spotlight while still being very involved in activities.  Center stage is for the extrovert who needs the acclaim.  The IEP doesn't need attention and is, frequently, uncomfortable with the attention.  They do, however, have much to offer and are often considered a go-to person for information or guidance.  

An IEP might be a person who is often overlooked.  An IEP can be seen as being too nice, too accommodating, too helpful. These perfectly natural traits are usually mistaken for weaknesses; the person who perceives an IEP as weak is in the wrong entirely!  Being a person who is in touch with the feelings of others makes an IEP a person with an interesting group of friends.  Friends who will stand up for the IEP when necessary, as the IEP will, often, not stand up for themselves.

On the other hand, being a total Intro-Extro, I have a difficult time with whirlwind activity.  Crowds and loud parties and chaotic events all put me off and tire me out.  I would rather hang with a few close friends, usually as the central talker!  LOL  I am definitely "on" in small, intimate groups.  

If you are an IEP who is dealing with self-esteem issues, fear not.  Your personality traits may be misunderstood, but after you accept that you are who you are, you can embrace those unique traits and become the best YOU ever!

IEP Traits 

• An IEP wants to understand clearly and concisely and wishes to be understood that way as well.
• An IEP has difficult working on a team that stresses competition and status.
• An IEP pursues integrity above many other traits.
• An IEP makes a good student and researcher and is generally open to new ideas without judging
• An IEP manages to understand the needs of those around them and finds ways to incorporate meeting those needs into the time available.
• People often seek out the IEP when needing an ear and a shoulder.
• The IEP often has difficulty finding an ear and a shoulder that doesn't offer advice or judgment.
• An IEP feels the need to express honestly and completely and is often unsure about the TMI line.
• When around a very extroverted person, the IEP is perfectly capable of maintaining a good sense of self and allow the other person to stand out.  The IEP is often in a small group off to the side creating solutions and plans rather than enjoying the show.
• When stressed, the IEP is likely to seek alone time first, think things through, then seek out a trusted companion to bounce feelings off of.
• When self-esteem is an issue, the IEP could benefit from journaling positive self talk statements.
• IEPs derive a significant amount of self esteem from interactions with others and when their creativity is allowed to blossom.
• IEPs sometimes isolate when feeling down.  Interacting with others can help tremendously.
• An IEP may have an easy time finding positive qualities of others, but difficult time finding positive qualities of self.  Keep a journal of positive "self' statements and invite trusted others to write positive statements.
• IEPs are willing to champion causes that mean a great deal to them.
• IEPs have a difficult time having relationships with very rigid or judging people.
• And IEPs are often considered very confident, kind, interesting, intelligent people and are often singled out for awards or for job promotions.

As an IEP, I have always had a very easy time finding a new job and succeeding in that job.  Of course, there are no promises, but IEPs have some great qualities!

My biggest problem is with self-esteem at times.  Mostly I am fine.  But when I start to dive, it can take time for me to return to my usual level of functioning.  Happily, that's not happened for awhile!