Sean started his new job last week and life seems to be getting back to a normal grind for us. I love it. I really think all of us thrive on a normal, predictable schedule. I've had a lot of thoughts about Maslow's hierarchy lately as it relates to education, so I think I'll write something up on that eventually, but I want to look up some books first. Anyway, here's why I'm writing today...
I'm just about ready to start ordering the last few things I need for kindergarten. I'm very pleased with how little I need to spend with how I've planned. I already have books for phonics (but I'd like to look at Explode the Code for next year) and the library for easy readers to practice reading. I'm thinking about doing some grammar and spelling (because Trevor asks grammar questions frequently and I just want to see how interested he is in spelling), but we'll do so little of both that I'm sure we won't need books. For math, I've decided on Singapore math, after reviewing several programs and talking to friends. I've also decided to do Handwriting Without Tears for Trevor.
One thing that bothers me a little is that it feels like I'm just planning a bunch of worksheets for Trevor to do. That is something I really wanted to avoid. I admit, it really irks me. I think that there does need to be a certain amount of drill and practice for building a good foundation in the basics, though, and worksheets--as long as they're good ones--can fill our requirements.
Speaking of requirements, I made an appointment to speak with a Community Education rep. from the public schools here. We talked about financing for homeschoolers and she gave me tons of forms and information. I was worried that someone from the public school would look down on parents choosing to homeschool, but she was very respectful and helpful.
I found out that the state gives about $80 per student for homeschool materials per year. Trevor will get about $40 since kindergarteners only go half time. So that almost completely covers the cost for the materials I have yet to order. Awesome! She had never heard of the financial programs I suggested to her, but offered to ask around and asked that I keep her updated if I root anything out myself.
Lately Trevor and I have been doing 3 phonics worksheets together, as well as reading books, doing a short math lesson, and a scripture story every day while the younger ones nap. He's shaping up to be a fine young man.
Monday, May 14, 2012
Thursday, May 3, 2012
BOOK IT! for Homeschools
The Pizza Hut BOOK IT! program is now open for homeschool enrollment! (Thanks for the tip last year, Tiffany!)
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