I am always amazed by the number of people who say, "Oh, I could never do that." As if I ever thought I could! But I do. And, no, it's not perfect. But I've seen my daughter in both the public school setting and the homeschool setting. Academically, she does better in the homeschool setting because I don't create homework for homework's sake and I give her a break when I know she needs it, not when a rote schedule dictates it. But as for 'telling others,' I tell them, "It's not about me."

Well, I can't say I agree with what the school did. I think that was a bit much. As for Kay's response to you, Joanne, I didn't find it 'angry' at all. She did ask some valid questions and had some valid points. As did you.

It originated in the movie Elf (starring Will Ferrell). Since then, believe it or not, it has been added to the dictionary! (No joke!)

Don't short change your friend, just because she's a nonbeliever! During our 'low points' is usually when we get the depth the most...if that makes sense! If you think she'd enjoy the book, after praying about it, give it to her and let God work the miracle! I've been around too many instances of nonbelievers having more insight than I do sometimes!

I know Valerian root works for me! It's in my Good Night (loose leaf) tea and it doesn't take very long to work! And lavender, as aromatherapy (eg, on the pillow), works wonders!

Thank you for all you input. I understand everyone's stated opinion. And you're right, in regards to education, we teach them where they're at, not 'in a mold.' I also have found myself consistently needing to re-evaluate how and what I what her to learn. So often I find myself wanting to 'check it off the list' but that's not really what homeschooling is about, is it? Part of why we homeschool is so that she can truly learn the subject matter, not just learn what's necessary to pass a test. It's interesting in that I've also been reminding myself, frequently, that ALL parts of life are education and that true education doesn't fit in a box! :0) Thanks, everyone!

We've decided to do another year of 4th grade with our daughter. Besides being on the young end of her peer group (she's an August baby), our fall semester was extremely interrupted with travel to visit a dying family member, two moves, and two different schools! Due to this and my own battlefield of the mind, she's about 1/2 a year behind, thus our decision. I was just wondering if any of you have held a child back a year? Thanks for any experienced input!

We've decided to do another year of 4th grade with our daughter. Besides being on the young end of her peer group (she's an August baby), our fall semester was extremely interrupted with travel to visit a dying family member, two moves, and two different schools! Due to this and my own battlefield of the mind, she's about 1/2 a year behind, thus our decision. I was just wondering if any of you have held a child back a year? Thanks for any experienced input!

Actually, I did put my dd in a charter school here for awhile. It helped her where she needed help. But then, do to some more important factors, we came back to homeschooling. However, before we committed to sending her there every day, the school did invite her to come 'sit in' for a day or two. Since it is 'the end' of the school year for most schools, don't send them now! They won't learn what it's really like and all they'll see is fun! But somewhere in mid-October might be a good time to send them! Hope that helps a little bit!