Has anyone had experience with this, good or bad? I would like to use at least a few of the modules in the coming year with my two sons who will be in 3rd and 5th grades. I actually really like the curriculum we've used this year, it's just that actually doing it hasn't panned out very well. I feel very discouraged and that maybe the coming year is a good time for a less teacher-intensive approach. My oldest did well this year using the DIVE CD with his Saxon Math, so he'll do that again, but my younger will still be in the elementary level 3 Saxon, so I'll be working with him. We love Apologia Flying Creatures, but I get very frustrated during read aloud subjects bc they are true boys and horse around and don't appear to listen to a word. By the time I calm down, I have a huge challenge getting not just them, but myself back on track. So I would be open to trying a different science. I love Diana Waring History, What in the World's Going On Here and True Tales and More True Tales. We listen to it as we go around town or while they quietly play with their legos. She has such incredible enthusiasm. I'd love to stick with her CDs and use the elementary books. I've been reading so much here about IEW that I would really love to try it. I think it would give me a simple list approach to writing and an appreciation for the way boys write. However, it is pretty hands-on for the teacher, and I would rather the boys get language done than for me to have my first choice. Also, if I use IEW, I would have to find something for grammar (I was thinking maybe Shurley, but am not sure how much time/involvement it requires from me). What do you think? My oldest has used BJU Reading and English for two years (their English covers writing and grammar). My youngest finished OPGTR and FLL this year. I was going to just use the BJU books for 3rd and 5th grade, but am wondering if there is a video language arts program anyone would recommend? I know my situation is not unique, and so many of you here seem to juggle quite a few more children and responsibilities very gracefully, but I just end up feeling like I'm doing a terrible job at everything. I'm miserable most of the time and I feel like I just ruin the home environment. My husband is very supportive, and assures me that no matter how awful I think I've done, they are still getting much more learning accomplished than they would in public schools. My daughter will be 2 in August, and I know she'll get easier and easier to manage as she gets older, but she is such a distraction to all of us when we school, and she doesn't get the attention she should either. I am just down in the dumps about everything right now and can't see it getting any better in the next month or so before we start again. Suggestions gratefully accepted and advice sought from the wisdom of your experience. Btw, I've been homeschooling for 4 years, since my oldest was in first grade. Putting them back in ps is not really an option, but I'm willing to admit I can't do it all, and am open to other suggestions. Thanks!

You guys are getting me excited to try this. I was looking at the TWSS only, but I may add the themed writing kit for Ancient History, since that's where we'll be next year. I was a little concerned to try it with my youngest son (7, will be 3rd next year), but I see a few other 2nd and 3rd graders included in the ages above, so I am less worried now. This information is so encouraging, just knowing there are so many others out there going through the same thing, trying to make the same choices.

Little to no teaching - THAT's what I need in an art curriculum. Well, it would be nice in a few other areas as well, but we might get art done this way.

I think you can skip whatever you think might be scary for him. My oldest is this way, too, and he's 10! He often gets pretty upset by things he sees even previews for. We talked about it and rather than wish he were "tougher", we realized we are fortunate he isn't desensitized by the world. Keep them little and sweet while you can!

Is Shurley English a good companion to IEW? I would be switching from BJU English (which does grammar and writing alternate chapters). And I have boys who will be in 3rd and 5th grades next year. Would you switch just the older boy? It seems after watching some of the YouTube videos mentioned here that the IEW writing stuff would be great for older kids. Just confused and finding new alternatives daily here, you know, on the search for the perfect solution to all my homeschooling woes...lol! Thanks!

The first time I used this Bible curriculum, I just read through the scripture and did the review questions with my boys. This year, however, I am following the suggestions more carefully and using the Study Guide materials in the back (which tell who wrote each book, a little about their profession, etc.). I am also making sure to read the "Additional Scriptures" section and the "According to the Dictionary". These provide great additional information about each reading. They do make our lessons longer, but I finally decided that this is THE most important subject of the day and deserved the time needed to cover it more thoroughly. As far as denominational slant, I haven't noticed one, but I am not Catholic and might not perceive something you would find objectionable. I am enjoying this material even more the second time through and feel the kids are getting more out of it, too. Best of Luck!