I just got to that part in the book about the point system. I implemented it to my 6 year old for about 2 days and it was too much for us to keep track of. I felt like I was having to talk about it too much - took a lot of energy on my part. He seems to be out of his 2 month negative funk too - so I'm not as desperate. I may go back to it some time when he's older. It seems like a neat system. I like the idea of them keeping track of it themselves and my 6 yo is not ready. It's a great book. I'm trying to stay in the 'video moments' as much as possible - that's hard in and of itself! Good luck to you!

Well, they start the testing in 1st grade. And, my school district requires either notebooks of work done in each subject or year end test scores. The general consensus around here is 'give as little as you can' to the school district. So, I am exploring year-end testing options. I can't imagine that the tests are overly difficult or stressful if the material is being taught. I very much like a test that is not controlled by government regulations and shows you how well your child is learning. I realize many home schoolers have little requirements from their school district.

Hi, I have not done any year-end testing. I have only begun my first kindergarten home schooling year. But, I am contemplating year-end testing. I realize Core Knowledge is not classically based, but it appears other assessments that include history are not either. They have testing for 1st grade through 5th grade. Has anyone had experience with Core Knowledge testing? I think I am drawn to it's non-partial testing. It is not influenced by 'no child left behind' requirements. I would think that the test expects more from the child. Any thoughts? Thanks, Lauren

It has been helpful. This morning I got a sample of D'Nealian, Zaner-Bloser, and Writing without Tears and had my son try them and see which was best according to him. The best fit turned out to be Zaner-Bloser. He needs very specific letters that are controlled for him. Right now I am going through phonics plaid K, but he needs extra time and practice to form his letters. Being a lefty is not helping. So I will be getting Zaner-Bloser K and take it from there. Thanks everyone! Lauren

Hi, Looking for anyone close by with young kids? I have a boy 6, boy 4, and girl 2.

Hi, I was just wondering if anyone else is doing Sudoku puzzles with their kids? I got some from a school material site and it is Learn & Play Sudoku according to grade. My son seems to really be in tune with pattern recognition. He is doing Saxon 1 and Sudoku for second grade. Just wondering others experience with it or benefit.

Hi, Any thoughts out there on D'Nealian handwriting? It seems to be used in many private school settings and may have an advantage for boys and left handedness. Just wondering if others have used it or the workbooks from Pearson - Scott Foresman? I am thinking of starting my 6 yo son, who is left handed with it. Thanks, Lauren