I can not decide on next years science and history. I searched the forum and read so much that I just need to ask again for your advice. DD will be in 1st grade next year and we do CC so looking for Biology and Ancients (cycle 1). I would prefer more hands on science, since it's a real favorite for her. I've been considering Christian Kids Explore, RSO Life and Real Science 4 Kids. So, if cost was not an issue (not saying that it is not), and you had a lover of science what would you choose? Doesn't have to be one I have listed. Same for history - for some reason, I can't seem to fall in love with SOTW. I have not actually seen it in person, so not a far judgement. I did see Diane Waring last year and loved how she presented history. That's all I have for history. I really appreciate all you input. Much love! Jen

We did it for seven months, took 4 or 5 months off and just started again this month. My daughter loves geography and LOVES getting presents in the mail. She missed it during the break. We do use all the material that comes in package each month, and go further to study more (she's 6). I only do that to get moneys worth. It's expensive. The monthly cost doesn't seem like much, but when you add up full year, I too, saw how I could use that money for something "better". I took the break without telling her to see if she even noticed and she did. And although we do take time to study those counteries that come in mail, I really don't feel it adds that much to her learning, again based on cost. So, I'm going to see how it goes for a while and may drop it again. It's a great idea but I would like to see more content in the packages. Hope that helps, Jen

Thanks for the post! Seriously covering the decision with lots of prayer.

We just started our first year at CC this past fall. Our family loves it so far. We have an opportunity to start a new group and I was wondering if anyone knows anything about how to start. Most curious to know if I have to pay a fee or what? Is there a salary? Hours? Hardest part of starting new group. We have 2 in our general area but so need a 3 group. I am meeting with our director on Monday to find out more but just thought I'd ask here. Thanks again, Jennifer Classical Conversations

Sorry one last question - what is MEP. I found MCP modern Curr on the abbrev site, but not MEP. Thanks!

Thanks ladies! I'm going to look into every suggestion you posted.

I'm new to homeschooling, my daugther is in kindergarten. I feel very good with all our curriculum except math. Well, I was feeling ok with it. I was just using a workbook, Evan-Moor Skill Sharpeners First Grade. She flew through it and now I need something else. I read somewhere recently while researching what to get next and saw that this may not be a full math program. So, now back to the dreaded math search. I don't have too many options to actually see the different math programs in person to pick. And they all seem to be expensive so I want to make sure I pick best one for our daughter. Would you all be so kind to share what you are using and why? I'm sure this has been questioned here many times and forgive me for asking again. Just having hardest time choosing one. Thank you in advance for helping me out. Jen

:iagree: Oh and I'm starting the one hour quiet time! LOVE THAT IDEA! Daugther has not napped for years. So this will be a nice break - after the break in period is over. Love it!

Thanks everyone! I too am an older mom, married late, then had some trouble concieving. So, age may play a part and the fact that we are almost always together, since birth. Never worked, just me and her all day everyday. Have not spent much time away from her. There are moments when she'll play very well by herself. But not often enough. She loves to help me bake and do small things around the house. We also live in the country with no neighbors close by. But we manage to get into town at least once a week to playgrounds, nature centers, etc.. We'll figure it out about the co-op. I think maybe music and an art class might be better. Something we can do weekly and give me a little break. I really appreicate your advice and thoughts - sometimes that's all you need. Jen

We have an only. And will be. She just turned 5 few days ago and are thinking about homeschool. For parents of an only child, are you equally as worn out as I am at the end of the day from "playing"? I do a lot of play all day long - and it's exhausting. We do lots of field trips and I try to do many playdates as well. I'm not sure if I'm doing too much play - I do know I can't do more. We have the option of starting our daugther in a co-op/school program. It's two days a week, 8 hours each day. Now, I will hate the thought of being away from her for so long, but honestly, I could use a break. Is it wrong or selfish to need a break like that. Wrong reasons for joining the co-op? It's a classical education school. Would I be a better teacher to her if I get a break.... Just things I'm thinking about - we haven't started school yet. Just learning through playing. Thanks, Jen

Thanks ladies! I have been a stay at home mom with her all long. And believe me, I have learned so much from studying with her. She loves to learn. So, we do lots together. So, I guess, it's working. And in order for us to stay in our home in the country, and her to attend the high price academy, I would have to get a job - which kills me. Besides, I really don't want to be away from her for so many days for so many hours. We love to be together. I would hate to send her off to school, but I think maybe I'm just being smothering. But I have taught her to misprounce several scientific names so far. And now she won't accept the correct pronunciation. Ops! I know better now, to look it up before speaking if I'm not 100% sure. She wants to be an entomogolist and botanist when she grows up. So, she knows the scientific names and orders of insects and some plants - which blows my mind. I won't push writing - but loves to read! I am so glad for your confirmation on what my instincts were telling me. Not to push writing, but focus for now on the things she loves. Thanks again! I'm really excited about the possibilities and encouragement!

I've never desired to homeschool our only child, until, last month or so. She just turned 5 yesterday, and we have her signed up at a Christian Classic Academy for the fall. However, it's expensive and over 80 miles round trip per day. So, we may, and are willing, to sell our home (which we just built on 6 acres), and move into the city. We would downgrade but are willing to do anything for a quality education for our daughter. She does NOT want to move, nor do we. So, another option is a two-day co-op Christian Classical, same distance but a lot cheaper. Would require homeschool the other 3 days. So, here are my questions, if you dont' mind. I'm really searching my heart and need testing against selfish desires. 1 - Where I won't label my child, over half a dozen educators, have labeled her gifted. I will say she is very bright. I myself, only obtained a high school degree, so am concerend about my abilities to teach to the level she requires. Thoughts? 2 - I just purchased Teaching Reading in 100 lessons and this sites reading book. I do not have them yet, but both seemed very slow in beginning. Hannah, knew her ABC's at 18 months and could even pick out what letter a word started with when asked. As well as the sound. So, do I start from the beginning, no matter how easy it is for her? Which method is better? 3 - She dislikes writting the most. She is a perfectionist and I believe that's why she doesn't like to write. How important or what tools can I use to make it fun? Also, can anyone recommend non fiction books on not having to be perfect all the time? Sorry it's so long, I just have lots of questions. Seeking God's will! Thanks so much, Jen