Wednesday, October 29, 2008

The Old Schoolhouse Magazine

I have been reading The Old Schoolhouse since it's earliest days. I have been encouraged to watch the progress of both the magazine and the lives of the publishers, a homeschooling mom and dad. Last year, I wrote an article about using the "My First Little House" books as a basis for a Christian curriculum for little ones based on a course that I taught at our co-op.

Now, I just enjoy the inspirational articles, recipes and practical tips the magazine offers.

If you are looking for a homeschool magazine to subscribe to, consider The Old Schoolhouse. Click below to find out more or subscribe:







Tuesday, October 28, 2008

Thank You, Shoppers!

I would like to send out a special "thank you" to all of my readers who have purchased curriculum through this site. A portion of your purchase comes to me and I now have a $25 gift certificate at Christian Book Distibutors that I will spend on Advent supplies. Hurray!

I am so grateful to be able to point you to good products at good prices from a Christian bookstore.

Thanks again for making our family's Christmas season look even brighter than before!

Victoria





Monday, October 27, 2008

Used Homeschool Curriculum

My favorite source for use homeschool materials is now Homeschool Classifieds. They are a very easy site to use and the site is completely free.

Their alphabetical listings are easy to search by publisher, grade level or subject and the listings are generally up-to-date.

I am selling off some Bob Jones 2nd Grade curriculum so take a look at my "page" as an example.

The site may seem low-tech but I find it much easier to use than eBay. Also, check out their Bible reading plan record sheets. I found the sheets to be useful in recording the way I naturally tend to read my Bible.

Lots of interesting items on the Homeschool Classified site so check it out.




Academic Contests for Homeschoolers

Academic contests are favorites of many homeschoolers. Contests can give your child a chance to put together a special project, demonstrate his expertise in a certain area and even possibly win cash prizes or scholarships.

I remember competing in several contests in both elementary and high school and they were invaluable experiences. Some of the skills I learned included public speaking, designing a project on a deadline, following specific instructions for entries and more. In some cases, I also learned how to achieve a goal within a group.

The good news for homeschoolers is that many academic contests are open to participation from homeschoolers.

Here are some links to academic contests for homeschoolers:

Homeschool.com
HSLDA (Homeschool Legal Defense Association)
National History Day Contest: A Homeschoolers Experience
A to Z Homeschool
Homeschool Math Contests
Homeschool Writing Contests


If you know of any homeschool academic contests, please leave a comment below. Thanks!



Friday, October 24, 2008

Bob Jones Sidewalk Sale

For those of you living near Bob Jones University, they are having a sidewalk sale next week on Wednesday, October 29. According to the e-mail I received, books will start at just $1.

I am now dreaming about heading down to sunny South Carolina. I would love to get away about right now....

Click here for the exact address and more details.




Thursday, October 23, 2008

Jonathan Park Play on Video!

I was doing a search to find out more about the wonderful Jonathan Park series. I have been so pleased that my already creative, play-acting kids have really taken to acting out scenes from the Jonathan Park series.

I found another homeschooling mom who had a video on her site, The Prairie Family Chronicles, of her kids acting out some scenes from Jonathan Park. I thought I would feature it here.

In the video, her kids are acting out one of the scenes in which the kids (Jonathan, Ryan and others) are locked in a "freezing jail" trying to intercept the communications of the bad guy, Myles Morgan, who has stolen the Beowulf manuscript.
Watch it below:


Want to see a video of a behind-the-scenes look at the making of Jonathan Park? I feature a post of that Jonathan Park Video as well.



Click below to order or find out more about the Jonathan Park items available at CBD.com:
448811: Jonathan Park Audiodramas on CD, Volumes 1-5 Jonathan Park Audiodramas on CD, Volumes 1-5

By The Vision Forum, Inc
554303: Jonathan Park Communicator Watches (2-Pack) Jonathan Park Communicator Watches (2-Pack)

By The Vision Forum, Inc

See our Educational Gift Guide for more.

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

Jonathan Park a Big Hit!

Mom: What do you like most about Jonathan Park?
DS age 8: It is so exciting!

448811: Jonathan Park Audiodramas on CD, Volumes 1-5Jonathan Park Audiodramas on CD, Volumes 1-5

By The Vision Forum, Inc

Our whole family is not only enjoying the Jonathan Park Audio Adventures on CD but we are learning so much about science and affirming our faith in a loving Creator as well. Against the backdrop of spine-tingling adventures, we have learned about dinosaurs, evidence for a worldwide flood and Fibonacci Numbers in nature.

Mom is learning along with the kids and Alyssa likes Jonathan Park as much as Chase does.

I admit that when I first saw the Jonathan Park Adventures, I did not quite know what to expect. I know that I did not expect to find a very high-quality audio drama with great special effects, much like the old-time radio shows only much better in technical quality.

In summary, the Jonathan Park series is about the adventures of a creation scientist and his family who freely discuss the hand of God throughout their everyday lives.

I do not want to give away too much in case you decide to buy the series but suffice it to say I feel this series is well worth the investment.

We know what we will be getting for Christmas...





Saturday, October 18, 2008

This Old Schoolhouse E-Books and More



This Old Schoolhouse Magazine is bravely moving into the digital world. Now, the magazine is available as a digital edition to be read online instead of getting the print version in the mail.

Also, TOS now has a E-bookstore filled with homeschool resources. No waiting for delivery- download instantly and start learning right away! I have really come to appreciate the medium of e-books.

Lastly, TOS offers the Schoolhouse Planner, a homeschool planner that is also available by instant download. Check out these tree-saving options by clicking the links below.








Jonathan Park on iPod- How Cool!


Vision Forum is offering it's Jonathan Park series and other Christian family titles on pre-loaded iPod Nanos 50% off. The sale ends today so go to the Vision Forum online store to learn more.






Disney Homeschool Days Feature Narnia!

The 2009 Disney Homeschool Days will be held on January 12-13. Follow the link below to learn more.

Disney Youth Group Programs






Friday, October 17, 2008

Homeschool E-Books



E-books are the latest innovation in homeschool learning. An e-book is a digital version of a book that is found on a website. The customer (you) click a button to download the digital version of the book to your computer. At that time, you are free to do as you please with the book:

1.Print it as many copies as you would like
2.Read it on your computer
3.Burn it to a disc to save it as a CD-ROM

Below are e-books that may be of interest to homeschoolers, some specifically for Christian homeschoolers, from the large, long-established e-book store at ClickBank Marketplace.

Clicking on the titles will take you to a description sheet for each e-book and you will be given the option to proceed and purchase. A portion of all purchases will be paid to this site.

Secrets of Successful Homeschooling

Cindy Rushton's Inspirational Books

Homeschool ABCs

Ultimate Homeschool Mom's Planner

Homeschool High School

Math, Banking Lesson Plans

Master Math and English

College From Home

Homeschooling Secrets

Christian Unit Studies

Rocket Spanish

Rocket French

Video Music Lessons

Bible Teaching Guide

Online Math

Learn to Read Music

Science Projects

Student Planner

I hope you find some useful Christian or homeschool resources.

Happy Shopping!

Homeschool Books From 75 Cents!


Homeschool Bargains


703530: Liberty Letters: The Personal Correspondence of Catherine Clark  and Meredith Lyons-Pearl Harbor, 1941Liberty Letters: The Personal Correspondence of Catherine Clark and Meredith Lyons-Pearl Harbor, 1941

18784: Fit Kids!: The Complete Shape-Up Program from Birth  through High SchoolFit Kids!: The Complete Shape-Up Program from Birth through High School
115845: American Inaugurals: The Speeches, the Presidents, and Their TimesAmerican Inaugurals: The Speeches, the Presidents, and Their Times

9181: Let"s Try It Out In The Water: Hands-On Early-Learning Science ActivitiesLet's Try It Out In The Water: Hands-On Early-Learning Science Activities



Christian Book Distributors often has sales on homeschool books that are too discounted to pass up. That explains why my husband needs to keep building more bookshelves around here! I did purchase one of the 75 cent books (a Christian Library biography of Abraham Lincoln) and when you have children who are avid readers no book is ever a waste of money IMHO. Some of the books are said to be "slightly imperfect" but I have never found any defect that affected the ability to read the book.


Follow the link below to browse today's bargain books:


Homeschool Bargains












Thursday, October 16, 2008

This Week's Homeschool Bestsellers At CBD


Today, we are posting the latest, greatest and cheapest from Christian Book Distributors. Click the link below to go directly to the list or read on to find out more about a few of the top bestsellers.

This Week's Homeschool Bestsellers at CBD


421128: Do Hard Things: A Teenage Rebellion Against Low ExpectationsDo Hard Things: A Teenage Rebellion Against Low Expectations

Leading the pack is Do Hard Things: A Teenage Rebellion Against Low Expectations by the Harris brothers. I have been following this family for some time and they are a symbol of the fruits that Christian homeschooling can produce. I was intrigued by their idea that being "bad" as a teen was no longer revolutionary. It made sense to point out to teens who often just want to rebel against something that they might consider rebelling against low expectations that society has for them. I knew from my own experiences working with teens that they often were more conservative than their parents. I also constantly hear from parents that I had better enjoy my kids now because when they are teenagers they will be "a nightmare". I could go on and on but that would be another blog post. This book is great reading for all parents and teens.

146060: Explode the Code, Book 1Explode the Code, Book 1
I used Explode the Code early on for my son. It was OK but he quickly tired of the simple drawings and some of the exercises involved somewhat obscure answers that were not easy for either of us to guess. I know many parents enjoy using Explode the Code and for the low price, it can not be beat. I do recommend it as a supplement, as does the official website, not as a primary phonics program.

9803X: Webster"s American Dictionary of the English Language, 1828 EditionWebster's American Dictionary of the English Language, 1828 Edition
Okay, I admit it. I am a dictionary junkie. I have loved to read dictionaries since I was a kid. The Webster's 1828 Dictionary is truly a dream come true. The elaborate, traditional definitions give a fascinating view into American History. Buy one if you can- you will keep it forever. You will not find a better price than CBD. (Let me know if you do...). I also use it for my Bible studies.

See the rest of the bestsellers today.
This Week's Homeschool Bestsellers at CBD
Happy Shopping!


Clear Play Filters DVDs For Your Family



Now there is a better way to watch movies with your family!
Introducing ClearPlay, the revolutionary technology that lets you skip the graphic violence, explicit scenes, and profanity in DVD movies.Click Here

We are excited to announce our partnership with ClearPlay Filtering DVD Players. We are still saving up to get one of these however, many families we know already have one and tell us what a blessing it is.
Check out the
ClearPlay Request For Information Page
for more information or read the FAQs and testimonials from the ClearPlay Website below:
FAQs
What is ClearPlay?
ClearPlay is a fancy DVD Player that can play regular DVD movies -- but without profanity, violence and nudity.
Wow! How does that work?
We create filtering information on a movie by movie basis, and then put those "filters" into the DVD player. This way, the DVD player knows when to skip or mute while the movie is playing.
But isn't it choppy?
Nope. Like you we love movies and take great care to maintain the movie presentation quality - the only thing gone is "that one scene" you wish the kids never saw.

What about new movies?

Another great question! If you sign up for a ClearPlay Membership then we provide constant updates for your DVD player. This way ClearPlay works with new movies as they come out. It is really just that simple.

Clear Play Testimonials

We love it. Thanks for the opportunity of allowing our family to view and purchase DVDs we would have never before.
Brett - Clarkston, MI Click Here

You guys have a great product! I'm very excited about being able to watch some "good except for a bit of language" movies with my kids.
Derek - Edmonton Alberta Click Here

I just wanted to thank your company for providing a service to help those who are struggling to maintain standards for the family in terms of entertainment.
Jim Click Here

Thank you for what you are trying to do to give parents more control
A concerned mom - Wisconsin Click Here

I just wanted to thank you and your company for creating this technology to filter out unnecessary content from movies.
Marc Click Here

Thank you for developing this technology. It is about time we, as parents and conscientious adults, have a choice to enjoy movies
Chris Click Here

Just got mine. Love it! The downloading was quick and easy. How refreshing to listen to a movie and not have to worry about offensive content. Thanks!
The Carters - Memphis, TN Click Here

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Switched On Schoolhouse Free Demo and Coupon



I have been hearing more and more good things about the Alpha Omega Switched on Schoolhouse 2008.  This updated version is apparently even easier to use than previous ones.  I went to the Alpha Omega website and here is what I read about the 2008 Switched on Schoolhouse software:

Have you heard? The new version of Switched-On Schoolhouse is here and it's better than ever, because Alpha Omega Publications has added more features that you’re sure to love. Brand new curriculum features for 2008 include improved grading, a centralized help feature, easier recordkeeping, more customization options for report cards, and best of all, an exciting, interactive Quiz Bowl game for grades 3-6!
Improved grading in SOS 2008 includes an expanded answer key that displays all acceptable answers, making grading less rigid and fairer to students. A centralized help feature includes a variety of resources such as the user manual, SOS overview, tutorials, and important links in one convenient location. The simplified recordkeeping process allows you to easily backup student data, making saving student work less time consuming. Offering more flexibility, SOS 2008 also allows you to create grade reports and report cards for specific date ranges. But here’s the best part—SOS 2008 now includes an interactive Quiz Bowl learning game! Made for one or two players, this exciting educational game for grades 3-6 will help your student practice what he’s learned in SOS History & Geography, Language Arts, Math, and Science.
Rest assured; Switched-On Schoolhouse 2008 Edition still has the award-winning, computer-based features you’ve come to enjoy like automatic grading and lesson planning, engaging multimedia tools, and quality, Christ-centered lesson content. Alpha Omega Publications has simply added more features to the new Switched-On Schoolhouse version to make learning and teaching easier, more accurate, and even more appealing. 
Order a Switched on Schoolhouse free demo disk by calling Alpha Omega today at 1-800-622-3070.

Take advantage of a 12% savings by ordering through the link below.

Save 12% On The New 2008 Version Of Switched-On Schoolhouse (SOS)

Is Indoctrinating Children Wrong?-Obama in a Textbook

I guess only if you do not believe in what is being indoctrinated. Over the years, I have had many parents of children in public schools comment that religious homeschoolers are just plain wrong for indoctrinating our children by using religious textbooks and teaching a religious world view. My question always is "Do you honestly believe that public school textbooks do not indoctrinate and that they have no worldview?"

For the truth on this matter, follow this link about a mother's concern about her 8th grader's literature textbook featuring a section about Barack Obama and no other current political candidates.

Taxpayer dollars pay for biased textbooks.

HT- Michelle Malkin and Home Educators Under Grace

UPDATE:
An answer from the school district on why they chose this textbook. Their explanation on how they choose textbooks in general is even scarier than the whole Obama feature. Wake up parents of America!

"The Racine Unified School District DOES NOT endorse any candidate or political party," the school said in a written statement. "The choice of this selection was to provide a contemporary and multicultural figure to explore the unit on community."

Six teachers and three district staff members chose the textbook, district spokeswoman Stephanie Hayden said.

"The Racine Unified School District is a multicultural school district with 49 percent of our student body comprising students of color," the school said. "Identifying materials that reflect our student population is a priority.

"The selection in question is part of a larger unit centered around the question, 'If the people within a community accept each others' difference, how do individuals and their community benefit and prosper?'" the statement continued. "The selections, 'Dreams of My Father' and 'Out of Many, One,' fit into the curriculum by requiring students to engage in the central question around these and other selections."
OK, let me get this straight. The purpose of a literature textbook has nothing to do with teaching children critical analysis of great works of American literature.   Now I understand.  "Students of color" do not need to learn such lofty things.





Tuesday, October 14, 2008

Free Tote Bags From This Old Schoolhouse

The Old Schoolhouse Magazine just checked their inventory and their first thousand Homeschooling with Heart tote bags are almost gone!



They only have about 300 left to go with their Fall Special and I know that some of you have been wanting to get in on this deal before it is gone.

The tote bags are a $13.95 value and will be perfect for taking your things on the road with you. in fact, many of TOS Magazine readers have already told them that they are using the tote bags as purses!

When they let their renewing subscribers know that their chance to get the tote bags was about to end, they sold over 100 in one day. Please, don't put off subscribing and longer. They expect to give away 300 of there with new two-year U.S. subscriptions in 4 days.

A two-year subscription to TOS is so much more that just a free tote bag or 6 bonus gifts. Your subscription to TOS can actually save you money. You will benefit from:

* Reviews that save you from spending money on curriculum that's a bad fit for your family.
* Examples of what's working for other homeschooling families
* Free unit studies
* Special freebies and coupons from advertisers
* Monthly online Teacher's Toolbox with free downloadable curriculum items.

Isn't two years' worth of peace of mind about your homeschooling decision and all these great perks worth $39? Definitely!

Show your homeschooling spirit and start today with your two-year subscription to the Old Schoolhouse® Magazine.

Subscribe NOW and get a FREE Tote Bag!


Monday, October 13, 2008

NEW! Shop for Homeschool Books

UPDATE 11-04-2008:
Due to popular demand, our homeschool book store now has a new address at The Christian Homeschool.

We will be adding many more features to the new site but go on over now and take a look.

You may still order books by the categories below but also feel free to begin shopping the new store.

Through Christian Book Distributors, I am able to offer a homeschool store right on this blog! Shop by grade level, publisher, subject or type of media (DVDs, audiobooks or software). Look for more to be added soon.
Advantages of shopping through CBD:
1. Look Inside feature- I have found it most helpful to be able to look inside a book to preview it before I buy. Because of this feature, I have been able to stop returning books because they were not a good fit.
2. Customer reviews- I enjoy reading the reviews other customers have left on an item. I have not purchased certain items I thought I would once I read the reviews.
3. Up-to-date ordering systems- I always feel uncomfortable ordering from websites that seem behind the times in their ordering systems. You can start an account at CBD which will save addresses and credit card information if you want it to do so. The cart will tell you how much more you can purchase before you hit a new level of shipping fee and it will sometimes even suggest additional items that co-ordinate with the items in your cart.
4. A wishlist- available to help you keep track of items you may be unable to purchase right away but hope to purchase (or have purchased for you as a gift!) later. The wish list can be printed or e-mailed to give to your husband LOL!
5. Prompt e-mail communication -informing you of the status of your order. They warn you not to scroll down if you are not expecting anything as that may mean someone in your household ordered you a gift. Isn't that thoughtful?
6. Shipping- it is fast, reliable and reasonably priced. Need I say more?
I love shopping at Christian Book Distributors and I am excited to partner with them to bring you these specialized areas of homeschool resources to make your search for homeschool teaching materials a bit easier. Stay tuned for our Christmas gift store, too.
Happy Shopping!
Know what you want? Enter it into the search box to find what you are looking for today. Or scroll down to shop or browse by categories.

Search:






Christianbook.com
Scroll down to choose from the categories below to browse, research or buy:

How to Homeschool Books and More
Subject Categories
Homeschool by Grade Level
Homeschool Fifth Grade

Christian Curriculum Publishers
Other Media
Reference
Thank you for shopping. Tell all homeschool moms you know about this convenient way of ordering homeschool books.
Please suggest additional categories if you think of any.
Thank you for helping me realize my dream of operating a Christian bookstore!


Wednesday, October 8, 2008

Free Shipping- Spanish Language for Homeschoolers

Christian Book Distributors is offering FREE shipping on some foreign language programs. I will highlight only a few Spanish programs today.

Both of my children are enjoying Spanish this year. They want to complete multiple lessons each day. We are using the BJU Press (Bob Jones) Pasaporte al Español, Kit A which is an introductory Spanish program for the youngest grades.

This program is wonderful because it makes learning fun. The little hedgehog puppet, Choco, is a favorite in our home and the kids learn a little geography and culture along with the Spanish language.

My favorite part is the Bible memory verses in Spanish, specifically chosen to be verses with which you may easily share your faith with a Spanish-speaking person.

228320: Pasaporte al Espa&#241ol, Kit A Pasaporte al Espa&#241ol, Kit A

By Bob Jones University Press

Below is a picture of Pasaporte al Español, Kit B, meant for fourth through sixth graders.

233767: Pasaporte Al Espanol Kit B Pasaporte Al Espanol Kit B

By BJU Press

I had to include the always extremely popular Rosetta Stone program, a perennial favorite homeschoolers of all types. This very highly rated program is typically difficult to find on sale or discounted. At least if you order from Christian Book Distributors you will receive free shipping.

918312: Rosetta Stone Latin American Spanish Level 1,2 & 3 Set with Audio Companion Homeschool Edition, Version 3 Rosetta Stone Latin American Spanish Level 1,2 & 3 Set with Audio Companion Homeschool Edition, Version 3

By Rosetta Stone