zelli21
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Posts posted by zelli21
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Since my DS has been enjoying ABCMouse.com, I decided to let him try Reading Eggs to see if he'd enjoy that better since he's been a little bored with ABCM. Then he tried the samples of Looney Toons ClickN Read and Headsprout, he seems to like them all the same but I'm not sure which would be the best.
Before I get too much futher ahead of myself, let me give some background, he's 33 months and the RE placement test put him on Map 7, Level 60. Now, I know he has both letter and sound identification down plus knowledge of some sight words. He can sound out book 1 of the first set of BOB books. He can read/spell apple plus other words, knows his colors, shapes, numbers to 20 and so on. He plays other games on my tablet and will intentionally pick all the wrong answers because he can (he's that type of child already lol). I expected him to be able to skip a few levels but not half the program. He's already advanced to level 61. Has anyone had this happen and have the results be wrong? I'm just concerned it was a lot of lucky guessing.
I'm not forcing him to learn to read, he won't sit still for more than a few pages in any book with me asking him to read the words he knows or even if I'm just reading it. Nor are we doing any formal reading programs yet. I'm just in favor of edutainment (love that term) over letting him just watch anything on TV or destroy my house while I'm working. Plus he is letter obessed and he "spells" as he calls it, which is reading off each letter on whatever he's looking at. Anything that keeps him quiet and busy for 30 minutes is a sanity-saver.
So if I'm going to invest money into another program to keep him entertained, I'd like one that will best assist him with his reading skills.
I do plan on using this same program to assist my dyslexic SD (8) over this summer too in conjuntion with Dancing Bears.
WHEW, that was more information than I was expecting it to be. So really I'm just wondering what program to pick as on the surface they all seem to work and have their advanges.
Thanks in advance for your advice.
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Thank you for your suggestions. I've checked out MUS since it got an overwhelming approval (I'm was actually suprised since most people seem to suggest Saxon or Singapore). I like the idea of the video since it given an alternative person explaning it. I've also looked at Mathtacular and Math Tutor videos as tools for additional explainations; maybe no one has explained it in a way that makes sense to them. We've tried teaching on fingers and with beans but they still are struggling with the concepts and facts.
I love that A&P samples are the entire book! I wish everyone did that; it would make it much easier to decide if a program is right or not. I'm going to look at it further to see if that is a better choice over AAS.
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Here is the background…
My step-children are being homeschooled by their bio-mom. However, DH and I believe (friends/family have reaffirmed as well) that they are struggling with their 3Rs; on top of their report cards from the accrediting body reflecting it. Bio-mom refuses to communicate with us regarding anything school related. Given this, we’ve decided to work with them this summer to boost their skills.
We have twins in 2nd grade; one has dyslexia and the other ADHD, and the oldest is in 6th (plus a toddler). For the twins, we are planning on using Phonics Pathways (PP) and Reading Pathways (RP) for reading mixed with Hooked on Phonics (HOP) since we already own them and have started them on it. I’m also going to create cursive handwriting sheets using the Startwrite for each one and try to incorporate grammar lessons into it.
However, why I’m here is that I really need advice for spelling and math. We do own How to Teach Spelling (HTTS) but since that is not either of our stronger subjects and I can not for the life of me figure out how the manual relates to the workbooks, I’m not sure about using it. If someone can explain it to me, I’d much appreciate it. I’ve also been looking at All About Spelling (AAS) while much more expensive, it is open and go from the sound of it. Plus it seems easier to use with a younger child. (If it sounds like I’m trying to convince myself to get AAS; it’s because I think I am lol).
With regards to math, I’m looking for an easy program since they all struggle with it. It needs to something that is not super teacher intensive as both DH and I work full time (he’s in school full time too); however, I do work from home which gives me the opportunity to work with them. Plus it should something that we can accomplish over a summer. I’ve looked at Hooked on Math but I haven’t found any good samples to confirm it will work and be easy to use. It also needs to cover addition/subtraction for the twins and multiplication/division for the oldest without being overly costly. Other than that, I haven’t found a math program that fits the criteria.
It maybe overly ambitious to try to accomplish all of this in one summer but we have to do something to at least say we tried rather than waiting until it is too late.
Thanks for your support and advice.
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Depending on the age and stage...Where the Wild Things Are. Then the Baby Sitters Club series (I think I read nearly every book in the series; like 3 a night during the summer). From there it was Izzy Willy Nilly and To Kill a Mockingbird.
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I understand the argument; it is something I've been debating about too. Part of me says, it is not needed since besides signing my name, I never use it, I print or type (heck neither my husband or I could remember how to make a cursive Q & that was just a couple of weeks ago). But the other part says it is needed as you need to know how to read it and sign your name. Granted, we live in the digital age and some day our signature may be a fingerprint but until then and should one day technology fail us, I want to ensure my child can sign his name with something other than an X.
With all of that being said, I have decided to teach my child italics, move to cursive italics, and then do a short study on "traditional" cursive (mainly for reading purposes). I decided on cursive italics because I think it is how many people write now, half printing and half cursive. After reviewing samples, GD seem to lean the most towards that mix, IMO.
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My toddler son has been alphabet crazy since he turned 15 months. Perhaps it was because I sang the ABCs to him multiple times a day since he was born (it was the only thing I could always remember the "words" to durning those sleep deprived months).
Any how, that was about the time we started:
- LeapFrog videos
- Preschool Prep videos (the letter name video just flashes the letter and says the name repeatedly; they just released their phonics videos but I haven't tried them)
- LeapFrog Fridge Phonics: Magnetic Alphabet Set
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Now I Know My ABC's by Nora Gaydos (the book is nearly tore apart we read it so much)
- WordWorld and SuperWhy on PBS/Sprout
Last week we started Hooked on Phonics Preschool program. You may want to look into that as well since it doesn't involve writing. Most of the reviews I read on this board were positive because it works. The major complaint was that it teaches sight words in later levels. We are using it as a starting point to teaching reading, at this point I can't say if we will continue but if it works, who I am to complain.
I've checked out several of the books on teaching reading and the only one I really dislike is Teach Your Child to Read in 100 Easy Lessons. I'm stilly debating which of the books below I'm going to use to pair up with HOP.
- Teach Your Child to Read in 10 Minutes a Day
- The Reading Lesson: Teach Your Child to Read in 20 Easy Lessons
- Phonics Pathways
- The Ordinary Parent's Guide to Teaching Reading
- LeapFrog videos
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I received an email offering $386 worth of literature, guides, and audios from Living Books Curriculum for $27. Yesterday, I just happened to be considering purching the italics program when the email arrived.
So for those of you who have used their curriculum, are their materials good? It is worth it or should I just spend the $7 for the italics guide?
I've considered their curriculum as it seems complete and I like the selection of books.
The sales ends 11/7.
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First, I’d like to thank everyone who reads this post and that have read my other posts. With your help and advice, I have finally made a decision (er…got a grip on reality) and decided to wait on a literature based curriculum and teaching how to read until next year or the year after (also gives me more time to gather the books and decide which one to use). This year’s focus is mastering “basic skillsâ€.
My situation is (I think) a bit different than many of you in that I am a WAHM. As I have my DS at home, my work day ends up 10-12 + hours long in order to “have my cake and eat it too†so to speak. I need to have a more structure and be more planned so I can shorten my day work day and have more quality time with my family. I know many of people dislike have a “curriculum or lessons†at this age but I view it as fun activities to promote learning so mommy can get her work done in a shorter amount of time (and hopefully be less stressed in the process).
I have purchased SSRW PreK to use as resource for some of our activities (much to my surprise it does have some good ideas and is more than just coloring sheets). I’m still debating about Hands on Homeschool for 2 year olds because I’m intrigued by the manners (something very important to me), personal care, movement, and music aspects of the program. I’m hope that if I get enough suggestions on already planned free resources, I won’t need it.
Below is what I have for categories and for some I need more topics/ideas. Some may fit into more than one category. Whew, it is a long list and I hope you will make it longer (and reorganize as needed).
So what are you doing/what have you used? Like everyone, I already have http://www.letteroftheweek.com/ on my list of resources. Maybe we can help each other out and come up with our own schedule and “lesson†plans as I’m at a loss on how to teach some of this stuff.
Pre-readiness/Basic Skills
Colors, shapes, alphabet names/sounds, sequencing, classifying, position/directions, opposites, night vs day, name, age, birthday
Manners/Behaviors
“Pleaseâ€, “Thank youâ€, “You’re welcomeâ€, “Excuse meâ€, table etiquette, phone etiquette, waiting patiently, sharing, shaking hands, no tantrums
Personal Care/Chores
Brushing teeth, cleaning up after self, making bed, getting dressed, using the potty, hand washing, bathing, putting on shoes, feeding pets, washing dining table, putting dishes in sink/dishwasher
Music
Clapping to rhythm, nursery rhymes
Movement
Run, jump, hop, throw, march, skip, stand on one foot, walk in straight line, summersault, swing, walk backwards, ride bike
Science
Weather, body parts, animals, geography, 5 senses, plants, insect
Math
Counting to ?, Counting Objects, Size, Measuring, pattern, money
Social Studies
Family members, feelings, transportation, about me
Safety/Misc
Fire/stop drop & roll, strangers, hold hands and look both ways, 911
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Suggestions anyone?
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I'm looking for a comparative religion curriculum, resource...something for 8-12 year olds.
Here the background, my 8 yr old step-son made a remark over the weekend that my hubby and I need to raise his brother as a Christian. Which lead to my step-daughter inquiring about our religion. It took a lot of self-restraint to not flip at the remark since DH and I made a choice not to force our religious beliefs on them as it may contradict the religious beliefs their mother is allowing their step-father to force upon them. (Sorry that is my little vent).
My goal is to teach them about the different religions and that they can still be friends with people who believe differently than them. But most importantly to respect that everyone is entitled to believe as they wish and they should not make those types of comments.
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I wish I could be more help to you but I certainly understand your situation. I'm in a similar boat working a 9 to 5 (6, 7, 8, etc) job from home with a toddler. I haven't figured out how to schedule both either.
However, perhaps offer the 4th grader some additional allowance to handle a few more chores and help the 4yr old with reading and math while you supervise as you complete other tasks. Having your old DD help with the young ones AAR also has the benefit of giving her more practice reading.
Maybe schedule art and something else for the weekend. Maybe instead of havng her complete the daily assignment right after the lesson, have her complete on her own while you are gone and you can go over it when you get back.
Hopefully someone with more experience can offer you futher suggestions.
I'm sure with a little trial and error you figure out a system that works. Good luck.
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Thanks for the co-op info, I'll check it out. And the tip for the google search is awesome!
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The search feature doesn't return any results so I'm here to bother you all again :)...anyone know of good online co-ops?
When is the best time to buy new curriculums?
Thanks.
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I know there are companies that provide monthly activity or curriculum boxes. Now that I'd like to look into them, I can't find them...go figure. Please point me in the right direction. Thanks.
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I’ve been looking for a complete preschool curriculum that covers more than just reading. It would be nice if it could be secular as I would like to direct his religious studies separately. However, it seems most complete curriculums are religious based; I'm not sure which could be easily done secularly.
I know many people are against preschool but I’m looking for things to do in addition to random play and reading. I’m looking for something that I can use to inspire me because I’m out of ideas. Plus I need some structure (and a little quiet time).
I’m sure there are more curriculums out there than just what I have listed below. So what do you like and dislike? What is fun/creative? What did you use in combination with them?
Ideally, it will help teach size, color, shape, math, reading readiness, position/direction, time, fine/gross motor skills, and listen skills.
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Bump. Any takers who've used it. Thanks.
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First I'd like to thank everyone for their advice and sharing their knowledge that it maybe a slow process and that he may not be as ready as I think. He just shock me a few weeks ago when he read the word apple without there being a picture of it or it being on familar packaging:blink:. It got me thinking about it.
Second, thank you for sharing your opinons on the different tools you've used. I'm going to check them out so when he is ready, I will have an idea of what to try.
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What is your opinion of SSWR PreK? Is there something similar that is better/cheaper or a collection of programs that are more effective?
I like that it covers everything and includes singing which means dancing, a favorite activity of DS. Per the website it teaches colors, shapes, visual discrimination, matching, opposites, classification, story sequence, coloring, tracing, letter recognition, letter sounds, auditory discrimination, and oral vocabulary development. One product description said that it includes shoe manipulatives.
If you've used it, what did you think?</SPAN>
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Need help deciding a some "preschool curriculums" to help move us into reading. DS is 2 and LOVES his letters. He knows the alphabets and even has most of the sounds down. I'm looking for a something to help us to move to the next step. It is something I plan to take slowly at his pace. But right now he'd like a sponge and if he can learn it now before he would just rather play with toys, I'm going to take advantage.
Below are the one's that so far Iike the best. I'm just wondering what really works well and it easy. If there is something better than these, I'd love to hear it. Sell me on something!
All About Reading Pre-Level 1 (AAR) - Covers the 5 pre-reading skills: print awareness, phonological awareness, letter knowledge, listening comprehension, and motivation to read. AAS has great review so I'm hoping that AAR will be the same but as it is new that are only handful of reviews.
My hang up is the price. It doesn't seem to have a lot of material to justify the cost.
Explode the Code ABC (ETC) - Great reviews and is inexpenive for covering letter formation, tracking skills, and phonemic awareness.
I'm concerned that is workbook.
Phonics Pathways (PP) - Another with a lot of great reviews, inexpensive and non-consumable. It looks like it would be effective.
To me it seems a like it could be a little boring.
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I'm been debating about purchasing AAR prelevel since the review for AAS are mostly great. My DS is nearly 2 but already know his letters and a good portion of sounds. Since he loves the alphabet I figured I should just go with it and start slowly work towards reading (it can't hurt to try IMO and stop if he wants). But as it is new, it is hard to find reviews. So now that you've been using it for a while, I'd like an update to see if you'd still recommend it.
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I was wondering the same thing. And when it would be released. It looks like promising way to teach reading and spelling.
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That is what I did. I downloaded the sequence and then made a chart where ds would be going over a 4 year period in History, Science and Geography. That way I had a better idea what I would be doing over the years, so far so good and it gave me a confidence I needed to purchase (or not purchase) items.
HootyTooty...any chance in share that chart??? Pretty pretty please.:001_smile:
Headsprout Discount - Any current?
in General Education Discussion Board
Posted
Does anyone have any current discount codes or co-op buys for Headsprout? I've searched the internet but everything is old. If they have an annual schedule for releasing discounts, when are the periods normally?
The $200 price tag is a bit steep for something without resale value.
Thanks.