Homeschool World Forum

Hi Everyone. I posted a couple of questions in my intro but I assume that was the wrong place....I'm new, please forgive. I'm trying to get my kids out of PS ASAP, I forgot to mention in my intro in case anyone read my story that one motivation factor is that I might would have to homeschool my 14 year old son, 8th grade, for 8 weeks regardless of whether or not I homeschooled my daughter (10 yrs. 5th grade) or not because he might have to have surgery on his foot/ankle and would be off of his feet for that long. But I decided to pull them both out, and want them out YESTERDAY. My story is in my intro as to why. I could post 50 reasons, but I'll spare you all. At any rate, I need help, I am overwhelmed at all the curriculum choices out there! I love the idea of using curriculum that is Bible based (we are a Christian family) but I have heard that Abeka is difficult, both to learn and to teach, in some areas of study. Plus, I know it is very expensive. My mother works at our church, which also has a Christian school that uses Abeka, my oldest son used to go there (only for two grades and that was spaced out--K and 5th grades) and I know some about the curriculum but only through his schoolwork at that time. I want a curriculum that is not complicated to plan lessons or teach that will hold my kid's attention. Also, does anyone have any ideas as to what I can do to start them both in math, as my son is some behind (8th grade), but my daughter (5th) is pretty much on track. I don't have weeks to research this and wait on materials and info so I feel rushed and overwhelmed. I can't wait to get started, but it's getting started that is so confusing to me. I plan to take a trip to the mall bookstores later for Mary's book and Lisa Whelchels' also, if they have them. I'd hate to wait for days for the book. I'm also ordering the Practical Homeshooling magazine, how long does it take to get your first issue of that?? Also, is the magazine monthly?? Any info would be appreciated! Thanks so much for any replies.

First, look at your local library to see if you can find the books there (or give the library a call to find out).

Second, you need to know the laws for your state.

Third, think about how your children learn. Visually, Auditorily, or Kinesthetically? With stories or plain facts? This will help you know what kind of curricula to start looking at..

Fourth, think about your teaching style. How do you give information best?

Fifth, think about their schoolwork: where do they struggle and where do they excel? Has this changed over time with teachers, or does it seem innate? You might be able to use the areas in which they excel to help them understand the areas in which they struggle.

For math, you can start with a basic workbook from Walmart, until you find what you're looking for!

If I can help you with any specific questions, please ask!

Thanks so much Rachel. See, I hadn't even thought of looking at the library for the books instead of the bookstore! I'm just so overwhelmed with trying to choose a curriculum we can afford. I am leaning towards the BJU for most subjects, but not sure we can afford it.
I have already found out about the laws here and such, have the Notice of Intent and info from the county baord coming to me. I can withdraw the kids on Nov. 8, so I only have that long to get my curriculm. I do like to be well organized and on track, which is why I need an uncomplicated curriculum with good teaching materials to keep ME on track. Thanks for your help, if you think of anything else, please let me know.

Kim

Actually, there is one other thing I forgot to mention: deschooling.
When you take a child out of a classroom environment, they often need time to get out of the classroom mindset in order to really learn at home. This would mean that you would use less structured, less "orthodox" means to teach them than having them sit down to workbooks. The guideline is one month per year of classroom learning.

You may not be able to do that. And it's okay if you don't. But you may end up seeing a need for more frequent breaks, days off, or even vacation weeks. Most states don't say you have to do school every day that ps is open, though some do have you document your attendence to make sure you have x number of days in during a year.

Just remember to go easy and start slowly. Take a look at what they need to learn about and get the most fun way you can think of to teach about it. There's a movie about just about every subject to introduce it and make it more fun.

Rachel

BJUP has very good materials, if you're wanting to get everything from one publisher (and under the circumstances, it's probably a good idea).

However, you might find it easier for math to have your dc take Saxon's on-line placement test and go from there.

I'm also curious about why you must wait until Nov. 8. Here's the link to Home School Legal Defense Association's "Legal Analysis of WV Law." According to HSLDA, with the second option you just notify the school board two weeks before you're going to start hsing.

http://www.hslda.org/laws/analysis/West_Virginia.pdf

You might be able to find some textbooks in the library, but it is not likely. I've never seen any at my local libraries

Another resource in libraries is the "Core Knowledge" series. It's the one whose books are What Every 1st Grader Needs to Know, etc. They give a good "scope and sequence" (a good google term for knowing what to teach when) for each grade level.

For textbooks, I'd recommend looking in used bookstores, esp. those near college campus areas. However, those may be too advanced for your dc. Discount stores often have workbooks for math, spelling, and other subjects fairly cheaply that you could use until your regular curriculum comes in.