Why We Home School

Poetry Bee

2011-10-19T05:57:00.000-07:00

Rekindle the lost art of recitation in your students by creating your own Poetry Bee. This book contains many different levels of poems that will be enjoyable for all ages to memorize and orally present, from classic authors such as Lewis Carroll, Robert Frost, Christina Rossetti, Alfred Tennyson, Ralph Emerson, to Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.

Get this book for only $.99 on Kindle. Click here to order now.

I run a Poetry Club monthly in our community for our homeschooling families. It has been such a delight to see the progress in our children's education. I loved this so much, that I put my ideas down, and wanted to share it with others. Thus, I made it an e-book for Kindle Books. Enjoy!

For Love of a Story

2011-01-05T10:42:00.000-08:00

When I was thirteen, a friend of mine introduced me to the movie Gone With the Wind. I will never forget how I felt as we came to the end of the movie. I was shocked and devastated, as well as very tired. (I don’t think we even turned on the movie until midnight.) Another friend was also seeing the movie for the first time, and we were both blown away. We stayed up a bit longer to talk about the unfairness of the ending. The next morning, we woke up talking about it. That day, I got the book and started reading. I have read the book over twenty times now.

At the time, I was just a girl who loved a story. I read the book several times. I read about the Civil War. I paid more attention when a book, movie, or lecture was about the Civil War. I learned about the movie, voraciously reading all that I could. I learned about Margaret Mitchell. I learned about film making, casting, and screenwriters because of this book. I was excited about the book Scarlett, which came out that year. I followed the casting of Scarlett and even watched it, wallowing in all its horrible changes from the book.

My love for this one story led to many, many other learning experiences. I remember being amazed that other people didn’t even know the years that the Civil War started and ended. I never worked to memorize those dates, but I knew them because they were part of something I loved.
I attended a public school, and I was doing all this extra learning outside of class time. I was so motivated to learn all I could. When it came time to think about education for my own kids, I thought a lot about my experience with Gone With the Wind. For me, it was such a testament to true learning. I wanted that passion for knowledge for my children. I wanted them to see learning as a natural part of living.

Collecting Our Children

2010-12-20T11:46:00.000-08:00

" We can no longer assume, as parents in older days could, that a strong early bond between ourselves and our children will endure for as long as we need it. No matter how great our love or how well intentioned our parenting, under present circumstances we have less margin for error than parents ever had before. We face too much competition. To compensate for the cultural chaos of our times, we need to make a habit of collecting our children daily and repeatedly until they are old enough to function as independent beings......"

"Who is to raise our kids? The resounding answer, the only answer compatible with nature, it that we - the parents and other adults concerned with the care of children - must be their mentors, their guides, their nurturers, and their models. We need to hold on to our children until our work is done. We need to hold on not for selfish purposes but so they can venture forth, not hold them back but so they can fulfill their developmental destinies. We need to hold on to them until they can hold on to themselves."

Hold On to Your Kids, Why Parents Need to Matter More Than Peers
Gordon Neufeld, PhD.
Gabor Mate, M.D.
2004

How Can I Be

2010-08-30T14:59:00.000-07:00

I have two sons. My greatest dream and desire as a mother is to have them grow up and be just like these sweet missionaries.....

Speak With Conviction

2010-06-22T07:39:00.001-07:00

Typography from Ronnie Bruce on Vimeo.

Cantus Youth Choirs

2010-04-14T19:31:00.000-07:00

Dear music-loving parents and friends,

I just wanted to let you know about a great musical opportunity starting up in the greater Meridian area. Please help me spread the word to any families you know who may be interested. It is a non-profit, community youth choir called Cantus Youth Choirs. There is a lot of information on the website: http://cantusyouthchoirs.com/, including dates for a parent meeting and placement auditions next month.

A few key points to start with:
-youth in 4th-9th grades ('10-'11) are invited
-focused on performing traditional mixed (male/female) choral music
-audition info (for placement in one of three groups; all who audition will be placed): http://cantusyouthchoirs.com/?page_id=137
-rehearsals will be one night/week; time and location TBA
-Cantus Tour: In May 2011, Cantus will go on tour to Anaheim and compete at The Heritage Festival. The awards ceremony will be held in Disneyland (yes, we'll spend some time at the parks).

The "brains" behind this whole business is my good friend Erika McCauley (and her talented husband, Keith.) She is a wonderful musician, gifted director and has an amazing way with young people. (Those of you who have worked with Erika know what I am talking about!) Over the years I have seen and heard of many different youth musical groups, and I am so thrilled to be part of this--I can wholeheartedly, 100% recommend this as an incredible opportunity for anyone who is interested in music and singing.

Our advertising budget is limited as we launch the choir and we know that word of mouth is the best advertisement, anyway, so please help us by sending this on to anyone you know who might be interested.

Thanks, Melody

CANTUS YOUTH CHOIRS
13601 W MCMILLAN RD STE 102-314 | BOISE, ID 83713
CANTUSYOUTHCHOIRS.COM | P: (208) 954-6254 | F: (208) 473-2233

I Never Teach

2010-04-12T20:55:00.000-07:00

"I never teach my pupils; I only attempt to provide the conditions in which they can learn."
Albert Einstein

Sign up for a FREE History DVD Set

2010-04-12T20:23:00.000-07:00

School principals, register for your school’s free AMERICA The Story of US DVD!* HERE
America The Story of US — premiering on HISTORY™ April 25 at 9pm/8c — is a six week event that provides a fascinating look at the stories of the people, events, and innovations that forged our nation. It will provide you with an unprecedented opportunity to bring our nation’s history to life for your students. This 12-hour series will be supported by educational materials tied to curriculum standards and is copyright cleared for Fair Use in the classroom by instructors or pupils in the course of face-to-face teaching activities.
* HISTORY is offering America The Story of US on DVD to every school in the United States. School must be an accredited public, private or home school, grades K-12 and college. In order to receive your school's DVD, your school principal (grades K-12) or Dean of Students (college) should fill out the request form below. HISTORY strictly limits each school to one request. DVD requests must be made prior to July 1, 2010. DVDs will be mailed around August 2010, and free shipping is included in this offer.

Welcome to a Socialized America

2010-04-05T09:53:00.000-07:00

Raising Adults

2010-03-31T13:04:00.000-07:00

“My goal is to make joyful adults, who know what their mission in life is, and can’t wait to fight for it; and have solid relationships with God and family.”

Parenting A House United by: Nicholeen Peck

Learn With Me

2010-03-27T19:52:00.000-07:00

Check out this new product for home schooling families at Learn With Me!

At Learn With Me, our goal is to provide home educators and teachers resources that bring life and depth to a student's study of reading and writing. Our feature product is Read With Me. This book contains the core principles of reading with purpose; we call this strategic reading. These strategies are taught through activities, writing prompts, unique ideas, literary terms and much more. Read With Me is a must have resource for any language arts educator.

Our line of literature study guides are crafted to elicit discussion, foster literary analysis and also inspire change. These are available in book form or digital download.

True Confessions of an Organized Homeschooling Mom

2010-03-26T17:24:00.000-07:00

I have become so frustrated with my homeschool supplies lately. I have to hide the permanent markers, glue, and scissors from my toddlers. Needless to say, I can never find them because they are hidden so well.. .. in drawers, the top of book shelves, in between books....everywhere!

So I broke down and bought this adorable tote at Walmart today! I am so excited! Why did I not think of this sooner?

Rock Show

2010-02-19T18:41:00.000-08:00

Sat Feb 27-- Gem, Mineral, and Fossil Show-- $3 adults, children are free! Expo Idaho 5610 Glenwood...open 10-7Just in case you hadn't heard about it-- they'll have fossils, meteorites, glowing rocks, crystals... etc.

The Invisible Woman

2009-12-08T17:39:00.000-08:00

Music at Midday

2009-11-30T19:12:00.000-08:00

Each month the Boise Tuesday Musicale, the music teachers association in the valley, sponsors a wonderful, free, musical performance that is open to the public. It is held on the second Tuesday of each month at 12:00 noon and lasts for about 45 minutes.

The December program on Tuesday, December 8, is “Cathedral Bells and Pipes for Christmas” and features Sam Porter on the organ at the Cathedral of the Rockies at 12th and Franklin Street in Boise. These performances would be appropriate for any age that can sit quietly through a 30-45 minute program as they are geared to the general public, not just students.

Last month I met several homeschool families that attend each month from Mountain Home. The January program is Tuesday, January 12 at the Simplot Performing Arts Academy and features a trio of flute, clarinet, and piano called the Table Rock Trio. If you need any additional information, you can email Jill at jillcall@idahoidea.org.

Thank you Sarah for Thanksgiving!

2009-11-24T13:46:00.000-08:00

Sarah Hale (October 24, 1788 - April 30, 1879) is credited as the individual most responsible for making Thanksgiving a national holiday in the United States; it had previously been celebrated only in New England. Each state scheduled its own holiday, some as early as October and others as late as January; it was largely unknown in the American South.
Her advocacy for the national holiday began in 1846 and lasted 17 years before it was successful. In support of the proposed national holiday, she wrote letters to five Presidents of the United States -- Zachary Taylor, Millard Filmore, Franklin Pierce, James Buchanan, and Abraham Lincoln. Her initial letters failed to persuade, but the letter she wrote to Lincoln did convince him to support legislation establishing a national holiday of Thanksgiving in 1863.
The power of the pen is amazing! Thank you Sarah for your legacy!
The new national holiday was considered a unifying day after the stress of the American Civil War. Prior to the addition of Thanksgiving, the only national holidays celebrated in the United States were Washington's Birthday and Independence Day.

Ordinary Generals

2009-10-26T07:03:00.000-07:00

Leaders are not what people think - people with huge crowds following them. Leaders are people who go their own way without caring, or even looking to see whether anyone is following them. "Leadership qualities" are not the qualities that enable people to attract followers, but those that enable them to do without them. They include, at the very least, courage, endurance, patience, humor, flexibility, resourcefulness,determination, a keen sense of reality and the ability to keep a cool and clear head even when things are going badly.

True leaders do not make people into followers, but into new leaders. The homeschooling movement is full of such people, "ordinary" people doing things that they never would have thought they could do - learning the law, questioning the experts, holding their ground against arrogant and threatening authorities, defending themselves and their convictions in the press, on TV, even in court. Seeing them, other ordinary people think they can do the same, and they do.

This is why it may be a little misleading to speak of the homeschooling "movement." Most people think of a movement as something like an army, a few generals and a great many buck privates. In the movement for home schooling, everyone is a general.

John Holt
Teach Your Own
pg (68-69)
1981

Jump Rope

2009-10-15T19:24:00.000-07:00

I had a professor in college once tell me that I was struggling with my tests because I have a "hyper-active" mind. I believed her because I had a tendecy to get very distracted when I was in a classroom, listening to a teacher. Even when I am interested in the subject. So I solved this by doodling the same flowers over and over, up and down the margins of my paper that I was taking notes on. This did wonders for me. I was able to focus my mind on what was being discussed, to the point of almost perfect recall.

My 6-year-old son tends to have the same problem. He has found a way to solve his distracted mind by jump roping instead of doodling. That's right, today he listened to a book on CD (3-4 grade level) while jump roping the whole time. This repetitive action is just what he needs to focus his mind on what he is listening to. I am shocked that he has the ability to do it for 2 hours straight at age 6! He also almost memorizes what he is listening too. He gets very upset if I or one of his sisters opens the door to the room where he is.

I am so grateful that we are able to Home Educate my son. I just can't picture him in a classroom with 30 other 6-years-old being told to stop jump roping, sit down, sit still and do this work sheet!

Why I Should Not Homeschool...

2009-10-06T07:56:00.000-07:00

You should home school or you should not home school, that is the question that every thinks is their business. And honestly it is usually "You can't home school because..."

1. Your kids will be weird! (Honestly, I would rather my children be able to relate to people of all ages and be polite and respectful. They are reading instead of watching TV or playing video games. If this makes them weird, then let the weirdness begin!)

2. You can't home school because you have four children ages 6 and younger. (My son helps at home with the dishes, laundry, changes diapers, feeds the 2 month old and helps buckles his sisters into the car. I honestly don't know what I would do without his help. He is also learning responsibility besides how a family works.)

3. You need to be a professional expert in order to teach children. (I really believe that children can be inspired to learn on their own. I can become an expert in anything that I am interested in. So over time, I can mentor my child in anything they are interested in. If I am not the best mentor, I will then find my child one.)

There are a 1,000 other reason why I cannot or should not home educate my children that are told to me everyday. But I can, and I will do it. Why? Because I believe that it is the best education that my children can receive! That my husband and I are the most emotionally invested in our children's well being and therefore, you can not pay any "expert" enough to teach them any better than the people who love them and know them the best. We are the most qualified!

"Render Unto Caesar"

2009-10-04T19:33:00.000-07:00

It is written somewhere: "Render unto Caesar (or the Governor) that which is Caesar's ***etc.," but I am not Caesar's, neither is my mind, nor are my children, nor are their minds, and for me, and for them, God sets the standards and arranges the program in all things and unfolds it day by day, season by season.

Dr. Frank Merrill

Albert Einstein's Thoughts on Cumpulsory Education

2009-09-21T14:08:00.000-07:00

It is, in fact, nothing short of a miracle that the modern methods of instruction have not yet entirely strangled the holy curiosity of inquiry; for this delicate little plant, aside from stimulation, stands mainly in need of freedom; without this it goes to wrack and ruin without fail. It is a very grave mistake to think that the enjoyment of seeing and searching can be promoted by means of coercion and a sense of duty.

To the contrary, I believe that it would be possible to rob even a healthy beast of prey of it voraciousness, it if were possible, with the aid of a whip, to force the beast to devour continuously, even when not hungry, especially if the food, handed out under such coercion, were to be selected accordingly.

ALBERT EINSTEIN

A Homeschool Family

2009-09-12T15:56:00.000-07:00

Museum Comes to Life

2009-08-29T19:53:00.000-07:00

Museum Comes to Life, the Idaho State Historical Society’s annual living celebration of history, returns this year with new performances and a touch of space exploration at the Idaho State Historical Museum and surrounding Julia Davis Park in Boise . The annual program presents a rare chance for people of all ages to watch history come alive in person. The day’s festivities create a new form of time travel, enabling people to experience – or in some cases remember – what life used to be like.

More than 50 demonstrations and exhibits of historical skills and crafts will be in full motion throughout the entire day. Celebrating technology and artisans of the past, Museum Comes to Life visitors will see medieval reenactments of dance and jousting, experience a day in the life of a fur trapper, see how wool was originally spun, watch Civil War veterans fire the 1860’s-era cannon, and much more. A one-time addition to the event this year is the NASA Exploration Experience Trailer. The 60-foot Trailer enables people to learn about NASA’s most significant historical accomplishments, take a simulated visit to the moon, and participate in an interactive display of future space exploration vehicles. Museum Comes to Life will be Saturday, September 26, from 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Admission is free.

Things as They Really Are

2009-06-02T11:13:00.000-07:00

By Elder David A. Bednar
Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles
CES Fireside for Young Adults • May 3, 2009 • Brigham Young University–Idaho
Brothers and sisters, I love you and am grateful to be with you. I extend a special welcome to those of you in your final year of seminary who are attending a CES broadcast for the first time. As you continue your education, I encourage you to take full advantage of the opportunities you will have to learn and grow spiritually by enrolling in and actively participating in institute classes. You also will be able to attend future CES firesides, which will strengthen and bless you.

As I have looked forward to and prepared for this opportunity to learn with you, I have come to better understand the strong feelings of Jacob, the brother of Nephi. He said, “I this day am weighed down with much … desire and anxiety for the welfare of your souls” (Jacob 2:3). The message I want to share with you today has over time distilled upon my soul “as the dews from heaven” (D&C 121:45). I invite your earnest attention to a serious subject that has both immediate and eternal implications. I pray for the Holy Ghost to be with and teach each of us during our time together.

I long have been impressed with the simple and clear definition of truth set forth in the Book of Mormon: “The Spirit speaketh the truth and lieth not. Wherefore, it speaketh of things as they really are, and of things as they really will be; wherefore, these things are manifested unto us plainly, for the salvation of our souls” (Jacob 4:13; see also D&C 93:24).

Tonight we will focus upon the first major element of truth identified in this verse: “things as they really are.” We first will review several key elements of our Heavenly Father’s plan of happiness as the doctrinal foundation for knowing and understanding things as they really are. We then will consider methods of attack used by the adversary to distract us from or inhibit our capacity to discern things as they really are. And finally, we will discuss the responsibilities that rest upon you as the rising generation. You will need to be obedient, to honor sacred covenants, and to discern things consistently as they really are in today’s world that grows ever more confused and wicked.

Our Divine Destiny
In “The Family: A Proclamation to the World,” the First Presidency and Council of the Twelve Apostles declare that as spirit sons and daughters of God we “accepted His plan by which His children could obtain a physical body and gain earthly experience to progress toward perfection and ultimately realize [our] divine destiny as heirs of eternal life” (“The Family: A Proclamation to the World,” Ensign, Nov. 1995, 102; or Liahona, Oct. 2004, 49). Please note the primary importance of obtaining a physical body in the process of progressing toward our divine destiny.

The Prophet Joseph Smith taught with clarity the importance of our physical bodies:

“We came to this earth that we might have a body and present it pure before God in the celestial kingdom. The great principle of happiness consists in having a body. The devil has no body, and herein is his punishment. He is pleased when he can obtain the tabernacle of man, and when cast out by the Savior he asked to go into the herd of swine, showing that he would prefer a swine’s body to having none. All beings who have bodies have power over those who have not. The devil has no power over us only as we permit him; the moment we revolt at anything which comes from God, the devil takes power.”1

Our physical bodies make possible a breadth, a depth, and an intensity of experience that simply could not be obtained in our premortal estate. President Boyd K. Packer has taught, “Our spirit and our body are combined in such a way that our body becomes an instrument of our mind and the foundation of our character.”2 Thus, our relationships with other people, our capacity to recognize and act in accordance with truth, and our ability to obey the principles and ordinances of the gospel of Jesus Christ are amplified through our physical bodies. In the classroom of mortality, we experience tenderness, love, kindness, happiness, sorrow, disappointment, pain, and even the challenges of physical limitations in ways that prepare us for eternity. Simply stated, there are lessons we must learn and experiences we must have, as the scriptures describe, “according to the flesh” (see 1 Nephi 19:6; Alma 7:12–13).

Apostles and prophets consistently have taught the mortal and eternal importance of our bodies. Paul declared:

“Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?

“If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are” (1 Corinthians 3:16–17).

And in this dispensation the Lord revealed that “the spirit and the body are the soul of man” (D&C 88:15). A truth that really is and always will be is that the body and the spirit constitute our reality and identity. When body and spirit are inseparably connected, we can receive a fulness of joy; when they are separated, we cannot receive a fulness of joy (see D&C 93:33–34).

The Father’s plan is designed to provide direction for His children, to help them become happy, and to bring them safely home to Him with resurrected, exalted bodies. Lucifer labors to make the sons and daughters of God confused and unhappy and to hinder their eternal progression. The overarching intent of the father of lies is that all of us would become “miserable like unto himself” (2 Nephi 2:27), and he works to distort the elements of the Father’s plan he hates the most.

Satan does not have a body, and his eternal progress has been halted. Just as water flowing in a riverbed is stopped by a dam, so the adversary’s eternal progress is thwarted because he does not have a physical body. Because of his rebellion, Lucifer has denied himself all of the mortal blessings and experiences made possible through a tabernacle of flesh and bones. He cannot learn the lessons that only an embodied spirit can learn. He cannot marry or enjoy the blessings of procreation and family life. He cannot abide the reality of a literal and universal resurrection of all mankind. One of the potent scriptural meanings of the word damned is illustrated in his inability to continue developing and becoming like our Heavenly Father.

Because a physical body is so central to the Father’s plan of happiness and our spiritual development, we should not be surprised that Lucifer seeks to frustrate our progression by tempting us to use our bodies improperly. One of the ultimate ironies of eternity is that the adversary, who is miserable precisely because he has no physical body, invites and entices us to share in his misery through the improper use of our bodies. The very tool he does not have and cannot use is thus the primary target of his attempts to lure us to physical and spiritual destruction.

The Adversary’s Attacks
The adversary attempts to influence us both to misuse our physical bodies and to minimize the importance of our bodies. These two methods of attack are important for us to recognize and to repel.

When any of Heavenly Father’s children misuse their physical tabernacles by violating the law of chastity, by using drugs and addictive substances, by disfiguring or defacing themselves, or by worshipping the false idol of body image, whether their own or that of others, Satan is delighted. To those of us who know and understand the plan of salvation, any defiling of the body is rebellion (see Mosiah 2:36–37; D&C 64:34–35) and a denial of our true identity as sons and daughters of God.

Now brothers and sisters, I cannot tell you all the ways whereby you may misuse your bodies, “for there are divers ways and means, even so many that I cannot number them” (Mosiah 4:29). You know what is right and what is wrong, and you have the individual responsibility to learn for yourself “by study and also by faith” (D&C 88:118) the things you should and should not do and the doctrinal reasons why you should and should not do those things. I testify that as you desire to so learn, as you “watch yourselves, and your thoughts, and your words, and your deeds, and observe the commandments of God, and continue in the faith of what ye have heard concerning the coming of our Lord, even unto the end of your lives” (Mosiah 4:30), you will be spiritually enlightened and protected. And according to your faithfulness and diligence, you will have the power to discern the deception and repel the attacks of the adversary as he tempts you to misuse your physical body.

Satan also strives to entice the sons and daughters of God to minimize the importance of their physical bodies. This particular type of attack is most subtle and diabolical. I want to provide several examples of how the adversary can pacify and lull us away into a sense of carnal security (see 2 Nephi 28:21) and encourage us to put at risk the earthly learning experiences that caused us to shout for joy (see Job 38:7) in the premortal existence.

For example, all of us can find enjoyment in a wide range of wholesome, entertaining, and engaging activities. But we diminish the importance of our bodies and jeopardize our physical well-being by going to unusual and dangerous extremes searching for an ever greater and more exhilarating adrenaline “rush.” We may rationalize that surely nothing is wrong with such seemingly innocent exploits and adventures. However, putting at risk the very instrument God has given us to receive the learning experiences of mortality—merely to pursue a thrill or some supposed fun, to bolster ego, or to gain acceptance—truly minimizes the importance of our physical bodies.

Sadly, some young men and women in the Church today ignore “things as they really are” and neglect eternal relationships for digital distractions, diversions, and detours that have no lasting value. My heart aches when a young couple—sealed together in the house of the Lord for time and for all eternity by the power of the holy priesthood—experiences marital difficulties because of the addicting effect of excessive video gaming or online socializing. A young man or woman may waste countless hours, postpone or forfeit vocational or academic achievement, and ultimately sacrifice cherished human relationships because of mind- and spirit-numbing video and online games. As the Lord declared, “Wherefore, I give unto them a commandment … : Thou shalt not idle away thy time, neither shalt thou bury thy talent that it may not be known” (D&C 60:13).

You may now be asking yourself, “But Brother Bednar, you began today by talking about the importance of a physical body in our eternal progression. Are you suggesting that video gaming and various types of computer-mediated communication can play a role in minimizing the importance of our physical bodies?” That is precisely what I am declaring. Let me explain.

We live at a time when technology can be used to replicate reality, to augment reality, and to create virtual reality. For example, a medical doctor can use software simulation to gain valuable experience performing a complicated surgical operation without ever putting a human patient at risk. A pilot in a flight simulator repeatedly can practice emergency landing procedures that could save many lives. And architects and engineers can use innovative technologies to model sophisticated design and construction methods that decrease the loss of human life and damage to buildings caused by earthquakes and other natural disasters.

In each of these examples, a high degree of fidelity in the simulation or model contributes to the effectiveness of the experience. The term fidelity denotes the similarity between reality and a representation of reality. Such a simulation can be constructive if the fidelity is high and the purposes are good—for example, providing experience that saves lives or improves the quality of life.

The image shown below is a computer-generated rendering of a sealing room in the Newport Beach California Temple.

Rendering

This and similar images are used as part of the planning and design process for each new temple that is constructed. The rendering portrays fabrics, furnishings, fixtures, lighting, scale, and proportion to show how each component will look and feel when finished. In essence, the entire temple and all of its elements are designed in detail before construction ever begins.

This picture is an actual photograph of the sealing room in the Newport Beach California Temple.

Please notice the fidelity between the representation of reality in the rendering (first image) and the reality of the completed room in this photograph.

This next image is a computer-generated rendering of a lobby area in the Copenhagen Denmark Temple.

Rendering

In each of these examples, high fidelity is employed to accomplish a most important purpose—the design and construction of a sacred and beautiful temple. However, a simulation or model can lead to spiritual impairment and danger if the fidelity is high and the purposes are bad—such as experimenting with actions contrary to God’s commandments or enticing us to think or do things we would not otherwise think or do “because it is only a game.”

Today I raise an apostolic voice of warning about the potentially stifling, suffocating, suppressing, and constraining impact of some kinds of cyberspace interactions and experiences upon our souls. The concerns I raise are not new; they apply equally to other types of media, such as television, movies, and music. But in a cyber world, these challenges are more pervasive and intense. I plead with you to beware of the sense-dulling and spiritually destructive influence of cyberspace technologies that are used to produce high fidelity and that promote degrading and evil purposes.

If the adversary cannot entice us to misuse our physical bodies, then one of his most potent tactics is to beguile you and me as embodied spirits to disconnect gradually and physically from things as they really are. In essence, he encourages us to think and act as if we were in our premortal, unembodied state. And, if we let him, he can cunningly employ some aspects of modern technology to accomplish his purposes. Please be careful of becoming so immersed and engrossed in pixels, texting, ear buds, twittering, online social networking, and potentially addictive uses of media and the Internet that you fail to recognize the importance of your physical body and miss the richness of person-to-person communication. Beware of digital displays and data in many forms of computer-mediated interaction that can displace the full range of physical capacity and experience.

Listen carefully to the following quote describing an intense romantic relationship a woman had with a cyberspace boyfriend. And note how the medium of communication minimized the importance of the physical body. “And so PFSlider [the man’s screen name] became my everyday life. All the tangible stuff fell away. My body did not exist. I had no skin, no hair, no bones. All desire had converted itself into a cerebral current that reached nothing but my frontal lobe. There was no outdoors, no social life, no weather. There was only the computer screen and the phone, my chair, and maybe a glass of water.”3

In contrast, we need to heed the admonition of Paul: “That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour” (1 Thessalonians 4:4).

Consider again the example I mentioned earlier of a young couple recently married in the house of the Lord. An immature or misguided spouse may devote an inordinate amount of time to playing video games, chatting online, or in other ways allowing the digital to dominate things as they really are. Initially the investment of time may seem relatively harmless, rationalized as a few minutes of needed relief from the demands of a hectic daily schedule. But important opportunities are missed for developing and improving interpersonal skills, for laughing and crying together, and for creating a rich and enduring bond of emotional intimacy. Progressively, seemingly innocent entertainment can become a form of pernicious enslavement.

To feel the warmth of a tender hug from an eternal companion or to see the sincerity in the eyes of another person as testimony is shared—all of these things experienced as they really are through the instrument of our physical body—could be sacrificed for a high fidelity fantasy that has no lasting value. If you and I are not vigilant, we can become “past feeling” (1 Nephi 17:45), as did Laman and Lemuel long ago.

Let me provide another example of disconnecting gradually and physically from things as they really are. Today a person can enter into a virtual world, such as Second Life, and assume a new identity. An individual can create an avatar, or a cyberspace persona, that conforms to his or her own appearance and behavior. Or a person can concoct a counterfeit identity that does not correlate in any way to things as they really are. However closely the assumed new identity approximates the individual, such behavior is the essence of things as they really are not. Earlier I defined the fidelity of a simulation or model. I now emphasize the importance of personal fidelity—the correspondence between an actual person and an assumed, cyberspace identity. Please note the lack of personal fidelity in the following episode as reported in the Wall Street Journal:

Ric Hoogestraat is “a burly [53-year-old] man with a long gray ponytail, thick sideburns and a salt-and-pepper handlebar mustache. … [Ric spends] six hours a night and often 14 hours at a stretch on weekends as Dutch Hoorenbeek, his six-foot-nine, muscular … cyber-self. The character looks like a younger, physically enhanced version of [Ric].”

“[He] sits at his computer with the blinds drawn. … While his wife, Sue, watches television in the living room, Mr. Hoogestraat chats online with what appears on the screen to be a tall, slim redhead.

“He’s never met the woman outside of the computer world of Second Life, a well-chronicled digital fantasyland. … He’s never so much as spoken to her on the telephone. But their relationship has taken on curiously real dimensions. They own two dogs, pay a mortgage together and spend hours [in their cyberspace world] shopping at the mall and taking long motorcycle rides. … Their bond is so strong that three months ago, Mr. Hoogestraat asked Janet Spielman, the 38-year-old Canadian woman who controls the redhead, to become his virtual wife.

“The woman he’s legally wed to is not amused. ‘It’s really devastating,’ says Sue Hoogestraat, … who has been married to Mr. Hoogestraat for seven months.”4

Brothers and sisters, please understand. I am not suggesting all technology is inherently bad; it is not. Nor am I saying we should not use its many capabilities in appropriate ways to learn, to communicate, to lift and brighten lives, and to build and strengthen the Church; of course we should. But I am raising a warning voice that we should not squander and damage authentic relationships by obsessing over contrived ones. “Nearly 40% of men and 53% of women who play online games said their virtual friends were equal to or better than their real-life friends, according to a survey of 30,000 gamers conducted by … a recent Ph.D. graduate from Stanford University. More than a quarter of gamers [who responded indicated that] the emotional highlight of the past week occurred in a computer world.”5

How important, how enduring, and how timely is the Lord’s definition of truth— “things as they really are.” The prophet Alma asked, “O then, is not this real?” (Alma 32:35). He was speaking of light and good so discernible they can be tasted. Indeed, “they who dwell in [the Father’s] presence … see as they are seen, and know as they are known, having received of his fulness and of his grace” (D&C 76:94).

My beloved brothers and sisters, beware! To the extent personal fidelity decreases in computer-mediated communications and the purposes of such communications are distorted, perverted, and wicked, the potential for spiritual disaster is dangerously high. I implore you to turn away immediately and permanently from such places and activities (see 2 Timothy 3:5).

Now I would like to address an additional characteristic of the adversary’s attacks. Satan often offers an alluring illusion of anonymity. Lucifer always has sought to accomplish his work in secret (see Moses 5:30). Remember, however, that apostasy is not anonymous simply because it occurs in a blog or through a fabricated identity in a chat room or virtual world. Immoral thoughts, words, and deeds always are immoral, even in cyberspace. Deceitful acts supposedly veiled in secrecy, such as illegally downloading music from the Internet or copying CDs or DVDs for distribution to friends and families, are nonetheless deceitful. We are all accountable to God, and ultimately we will be judged of Him according to our deeds and the desires of our hearts (see Alma 41:3). “For as [a man] thinketh in his heart, so is he” (Proverbs 23:7).

The Lord knows who we really are, what we really think, what we really do, and who we really are becoming. He has warned us that “the rebellious shall be pierced with much sorrow; for their iniquities shall be spoken upon the housetops, and their secret acts shall be revealed” (D&C 1:3).

I have raised a voice of warning about only a few of the spiritual hazards in our technologically oriented and rapidly changing world. Let me say again: neither technology nor rapid change in or of itself is good or evil; the real challenge is to understand both within the context of the eternal plan of happiness. Lucifer will encourage you to misuse and to minimize the importance of your physical body. He will attempt to substitute the monotony of virtual repetition for the infinite variety of God’s creations and convince us we are merely mortal things to be acted upon instead of eternal souls blessed with moral agency to act for ourselves. Deviously, he entices embodied spirits to forfeit the blessings and learning experiences “according to the flesh” that are made possible through the Father’s plan of happiness and the Atonement of His Only Begotten Son.

For your happiness and protection, I invite you to study more diligently the doctrine of the plan of salvation—and to prayerfully ponder the truths we have reviewed. I offer two questions for consideration in your personal pondering and prayerful studying:

1. Does the use of various technologies and media invite or impede the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost in your life?
2. Does the time you spend using various technologies and media enlarge or restrict your capacity to live, to love, and to serve in meaningful ways?
You will receive answers, inspiration, and instruction from the Holy Ghost suited to your individual circumstances and needs. I repeat and affirm the teaching of the Prophet Joseph: “All beings who have bodies have power over those who have not. The devil has no power over us only as we permit him.”6

These eternal truths about the importance of our physical bodies will fortify you against the deception and the attacks of the adversary. One of my deepest desires for you is an ever-increasing testimony of and appreciation for the Resurrection—even your own resurrection with a celestial, exalted body “because of your faith in [the Lord Jesus Christ] according to the promise” (Moroni 7:41).

The Rising Generation
I would like to speak specifically to you as you really are. You really are the rising generation in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In October of 1997, Elder Neal A. Maxwell visited the campus of Brigham Young University–Idaho to speak in a devotional. During the day he was on the campus, we talked together about a variety of gospel topics in general and about the youth of the Church in particular. I remember Elder Maxwell making a statement that greatly impressed me. He said, “The youth of this generation have a greater capacity for obedience than any previous generation.”

He then indicated that his statement was based upon a truth taught by President George Q. Cannon: “God has reserved spirits for this dispensation who have the courage and determination to face the world, and all the powers of the evil one, visible and invisible, to proclaim the Gospel, and maintain the truth, and establish and build up the Zion of our God, fearless of all consequences. He has sent these spirits in this generation to lay the foundation of Zion never more to be overthrown, and to raise up a seed that will be righteous, and that will honor God, and honor him supremely, and be obedient to him under all circumstances.”7

Parents and Church leaders frequently emphasize that the young men and women of this generation have been reserved for this season in the history of the world and are some of the most valiant of Heavenly Father’s children. Indeed, such statements are true. But I often have wondered if young people hear this description so often that it becomes overused and trite—and that its importance and deep implications may be overlooked. We know that “unto whom much is given much is required” (D&C 82:3). And the teachings of President Cannon and Elder Maxwell help us to understand more fully what is required of us today. You and I are to be valiant and “obedient to him under all circumstances.” Thus, obedience is the principal weapon upon which the rising generation must rely in the latter-day battle between good and evil.

We rejoice that the Lord through His authorized servants has “raised the bar” for the young men and women of today. Given what we know about who we are and why we are here upon the earth, such inspired direction is welcomed and appreciated. And we should recognize that Lucifer incessantly strives to “lower the bar” by coaxing us to misuse and minimize the importance of our physical bodies.

The Savior has warned us repeatedly to beware of deception by the adversary:

“Jesus answered, and said unto them: Take heed that no man deceive you; …

“For in those days there shall also arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall show great signs and wonders, insomuch, that, if possible, they shall deceive the very elect, who are the elect according to the covenant. …

“And whoso treasureth up my word, shall not be deceived” (Joseph Smith—Matthew 1:5, 22, 37).

Obedience opens the door to the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost. And the spiritual gifts and abilities activated by the power of the Holy Ghost enable us to avoid deception—and to see, to feel, to know, to understand, and to remember things as they really are. You and I have been endowed with a greater capacity for obedience precisely for these reasons. Moroni declared:

“Hearken unto the words of the Lord, and ask the Father in the name of Jesus for what things soever ye shall stand in need. Doubt not, but be believing, and begin as in times of old, and come unto the Lord with all your heart, and work out your own salvation with fear and trembling before him.

“Be wise in the days of your probation; strip yourselves of all uncleanness; ask not, that ye may consume it on your lusts, but ask with a firmness unshaken, that ye will yield to no temptation, but that ye will serve the true and living God” (Mormon 9:27–28).

As we heed that inspired counsel, we can and will be blessed to recognize and repel the attacks of the adversary—today and in the days that lie ahead. We can and will fulfill our foreordained responsibilities and contribute to the work of the Lord in all the world.

I testify that God lives and is our Heavenly Father. He is the Author of the plan of salvation. Jesus is the Christ, the Redeemer, whose body was bruised, broken, and torn for us as He offered the atoning sacrifice. He is resurrected; He lives; and He stands at the head of His Church in these latter days. To be “encircled about eternally in the arms of his love” (2 Nephi 1:15) will be a real and not a virtual experience.

I testify we can and will be blessed with the courage and determination to face the world and all the powers of the evil one. Righteousness will prevail. No unhallowed hand can stop this work from progressing. I bear witness and testify of these things as they really are and as they really will be in the sacred name of the Lord Jesus Christ, amen.

Notes
1. Quoted by William Clayton, reporting an undated discourse given by Joseph Smith in Nauvoo, Illinois; in L. John Nuttall, “Extracts from William Clayton’s Private Book,” 7–8, Journals of L. John Nuttall, 1857–1904, L. Tom Perry Special Collections, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah; copy in Church History Library; spelling and capitalization standardized; see also Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith (2007), 211, 214.

2. Boyd K. Packer, The Instrument of Your Mind and the Foundation of Your Character (Church Educational System fireside for young adults, Feb. 2, 2003), 2.

3. Meghan Daum, “Virtual Love,” The New Yorker, Aug. 25 and Sept. 1, 1997, 82; or Meghan Daum, My Misspent Youth (2001), 19.

4. Alexandra Alter, “Is This Man Cheating on His Wife?” Wall Street Journal, Aug. 10, 2007, W8, W1.

5. Alexandra Alter, Wall Street Journal, Aug. 10, 2007, W8.

6. Quoted by William Clayton; in L. John Nuttall, “Extracts from William Clayton’s Private Book,” 8.

7. George Q. Cannon, in Journal of Discourses, 11:230.

Free Day at the Museum

2009-05-05T13:29:00.000-07:00

Boise Art Museum
Free Day
Thursday, May 7th
10 am to 9 pm
www.boiseartmuseum.org

MaryKay—or Your Mom Won’t Want You To Read This Article

2009-04-10T12:54:00.000-07:00

This post is my plea to all Home Educators to be selfish, demanding, and overly critical! Not exactly what our mothers would want us to be is it? Seriously though, I REALLY mean it!

1. BE SELFISH! The years of our children’s youth are not worth sacrificing to any transient pleasures. Be selfish of your time with your children and help them be selfish of their time with you. Don’t answer the phone during story time! Don’t watch TV while folding laundry, instead have a sing-a-long or have a child read to you while working together. Don’t kick the kids out of the room so you can get some cleaning done, be patient with their efforts and teach them to work along side you.

2. BE DEMANDING! You have spent 9 months creating (or plenty more aching for) each of these treasures! Whether your child is home grown or heart sown, you went through a lot to get it safely in your arms and even more just to keep it alive and well! But more importantly God gave you each of your children and you hold a sacred trust to do your best by them. You deserve to be demanding of the kind of care each of your children receives! The duty of each family is to raise their children; not give birth and then pass the responsibility off to the government to raise its citizens! Unfortunately so many have been mislead into thinking that what worked fine 20 years ago will work now; that parents only need to create a loving and stable environment for about 5 years and then get back to their own lives—being available as needed on nights and weekends. Instead we need to demand more time with our children either by home schooling or speaking out against home work and not signing up for multiple activities that infringe upon time the family needs to strengthen itself.

3. BE OVERLY CRITICAL! I recently taught a group of youngsters at my church about keeping their body clean and healthy. I showed them a delicious looking brownie… it had syrup poured over the top and big chunks of white chocolate inside and every hand went up immediately hoping to get a bite… but then I told them that somewhere inside was a tiny piece of poison. It wouldn’t kill them right away but instead would slowly burn a hole inside of them. Their hands lowered as I asked if they really wanted to miss out on this really good brownie just because it had a little tiny piece of poison in it. You see the analogy don’t you? How often have you heard “It’s a really good movie, but it does have that one part” or “It was really suggestive but luckily that goes right over their heads” or “It wasn’t that good of a book but I just needed something to read” or “just push the mute button, close your eyes, or fast forward when it comes to that part”. The world needs more overly critical individuals. The future generations need more critical parents. We all need to be critical of the small poisons that erode away at our spirits just as much as we are critical of food that a tiny little fly drowned in or that sour cream that doesn’t quite smell right. Protecting our bodies should be second in line to the protection of our souls.

A few years ago I was sitting at a soccer practice talking to the other moms and watching my son play. One woman was very excited as her last child was "finally" heading off to school in just a few weeks. She was so excited to have some time to herself again! When I asked her what she was going to do all day she beamed as she said she was planning to sell Mary Kay & already had a long list of what she would buy with the extra money. I was shocked! Please believe me that I have nothing against the goal or reality of selling makeup nor of making lists of what to buy when you have extra cash. I also see no point judging or even arguing with this woman over her choices. But with how excited she was I thought for sure she must have had something bigger planed for her impending 30+ obligation free hours, each week. Instead, her long awaited wish was to use her extra time earning money to buy more stuff and I find that quite sad.

What is your long awaited wish? How will you get there? What will it give you in the end? …really?! You go girl!!

We all have those days...

2009-04-06T18:22:00.000-07:00

This Joke was found in a Readers Digest

Following a tough day of homeschooling her children, my friend was in the kitchen muttering to herself when her 14-year-old son walked in. "What's going on?" he asked. "I'm having a parent-teacher conference," she growled.

You Know that you are a Homeschooler When...

2009-04-04T13:28:00.000-07:00

your mother and best friend give you curriculum for your birthday presents - and you are thrilled! I just had to share what they gave me because I am always looking for a good recommendation.

The Core Knowledge Series - E. D. Hirsch, Jr.
Magic Tree House readers - Mary Pope Osborne
Leap Frog Alphabet Go Fish and Math Rummy

Note: My children are ages 5 1/2 and younger, so these things are for that age group.

Lessons found when you get your hands dirty...

2009-03-14T13:47:00.000-07:00

Here are so many wonderful lessons that naturally occur when you grow a vegetable garden. Today, with the help of my husband turning the soil, I was able to plant my spring seeds! Yeah! It felt so good to get down and get my hands really dirty and plant some seeds. I can't wait for fresh produce right out of my own garden again. We planted peas, radishes, onion sets, carrots, spinach and 3 kinds of lettuce!

This summer we are planning on pumpkins, cucumbers, zucchini, watermelons, tomatoes, beans, and corn. I know I am squishing a lot into my little raised beds, but I can't help it. I am addicted! Plus, I have learned a trick of training the vining plants to grow up strong supports. So I can squish more in...I call it vertical gardening!

Besides eating great produce, I know that my children will be learning about seasons, how plants grow, nutrition, and the joy of being patient!

Playing Checkers

2009-03-10T09:10:00.000-07:00

Lately, my 5 1/2 year old son has become obsessed with playing checkers with me. I love board games and am very competitive myself.

I decided when I first introduced my son to any board game, that I would not just "let him win." Every other aspect of being his mother is helping him along this way...from assisting with reading to buttoning up his pants. I believe that being a good looser as well as a winner are needed skills to learn. I also know that life can be tough, and you are not given free hand outs all the time.

When we fist began playing checkers months ago and Isaac lost, he would cry and become very angry. I would comfort him and put the game away. Please note that every time we play, it was his idea in the first place...

Lately he wants to play non-stop. He is starting to understand that there is strategy involved and has began asking for insight. He has never beat me yet, but he is starting to get close. Isaac even tripled jumped me and got a king before I even noticed it.

The best part of playing checkers, are the thinking skills involved. He not only has to watch his moves, but anticipate mine. I have watched his academic skills skyrocket at the same time. So the ironic part is, the more me play games and I don't teach academic skills, the better his academic skills are becoming...

And A Child Shall Lead Them...

2009-02-03T20:59:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago on a early Sunday morning I was quickly losing patience with my children as we hurried to get ready for church. No one was listening and instead had their own ideas of how to best use the time. Suddenly - out of nowhere - my son Nate started belting out the chorus to a favorite Primary song - "follow the prophet, follow the prophet, follow the prophet; don't go astray" his little lungs belted out quite loudly. As I tried to hush him - I realized I was being foolish - what a perfect song to sing a we got ready for church & I joined in.

Our home allows for learning to happen in the most suprising ways but most wonderful thing of all is that the usual roles are reversed quite frequently & I become the"student".

TV Stands for "The Vampire" - Kill It

2009-01-19T18:55:00.000-08:00

by Don Milne, an Editorial found in Deseret News

On Feb. 17, the "Vampire" in your home will be dead. The Vampire has sucked your life away day and night for decades. Years ago, your home maybe had one Vampire, but chances are now there are two or three or more stalking you. No matter where you go — living room, kitchen, even your bedroom — the Vampire is there. And because the Vampire has bitten you, you are a docile servant to his desires. He can say things and show you things that you would not put up with from your family or neighbors.

The Vampire spends more time with your child than your child spends in school. Report after report tells us of the harm he has done to your child. The more time your child spends with the Vampire, the more promiscuous he or she becomes. The Vampire makes your kid fat. The Vampire causes behavior problems.

If you are average, once the Vampire is gone on Feb. 17, you will have restored 28 hours of your life every week. In one year's time that's almost 40 full workweeks. What could you do with this extra 1,500 hours? You could get a lot of exercise. You could increase your job skills. You could spend more time engaged with your family. You could develop a talent like playing a musical instrument. You could get a part-time job and increase your savings. You could even read something more uplifting than the Vampire listings. I know. You mock me. You disparage me. This is an impossible dream. The Vampire is too strong and too alluring. Letting the Vampire die will cause you too much pain. Only outcasts and misfits can live without the Vampire. So you will not let your beloved, foul-mouthed, violent, sex-crazed Vampire die. You will give him new life with a converter box if you haven't done so already. Perhaps your Analog Vampire has already been replaced by an even more dangerous Digital Vampire. He will continue to dominate your life. Perhaps you already have a shrine dedicated to him in your home.

I killed the Vampire in my home in 2003. At first it was hard. The Vampire's poison was in my blood. I was drawn to raise him from the dead, but with time the desire left, and so did the ill effects. Shocked at my actions and shrouded in guilt, people I know would defend the Vampire. The Vampire brings news and even wholesome entertainment.
They don't understand.
The Vampire sucks life — hours, weeks, months, years. I can get news and entertainment without him and not cede away my control.
They say that less than 1 percent of Americans live without the Vampire.
We few, we happy few, we band of brothers.
Won't you join us?

In January 2003 Don and Aneladee Milne of Bountiful promised to take their children to Disneyland if they went a whole year without watching television programs. A year later, when they got back from Disneyland, they turned the TV back. They liked things better without it. They've remained "TV free" ever since.

Help Fight Freedom of Choice Act

2009-01-16T17:28:00.000-08:00

As most of you know, last night Obama made a public announcement that he is going to sign the Freedom Of Choice Act, which will allow all types of abortions including partial birth abortions, also allowing babies who are born alive due to botched up late term abortions, to be set aside without any medical care or nourishment and left to die (most of these babies have no medical problems and most of the ones that do, have things like cleft palates, club feet, things that are correctable, still they are murdered in the most cruel and inhuman way. They feel everything that is happening to them. There is more mercy for dogs that are put to sleep) This Bill also will make it mandatory for doctors and nurses to perform this murderous act even if they do not want to do so. This act also allows under age teens to have an abortion, even partial birth abortions, without parental consent.

Catholic Bishops have pleaded with Obama not to go ahead with this horrible murder of innocent babies. They have also told Obama that if he persists in signing this Bill which would require even Catholic Hospitals to perform these acts of murder, they will have no choice but to close all Catholic Hospitals. Please let us join with these courageous Bishops who will go to any length to change Obama's mind. Please take a minute to sign this statement and let our voices be heard.

This is a great, informative website. You can click on the video of Obama's speech to the Planned Parenthood group where he promised that the first thing he would do if elected President would be to sign the Freedom Of Choice Act. He isn't even in the White House yet and he made a statement last night that he will go forward with his plans to sign this outrageous bill. He still can change his mind because the Bill cannot be signed until he is actually the President.

Please let your family and friends know about this Bill and ask them to also sign this petition. Even those who voted for Obama would not want him to sign this Bill. May God have mercy on our country for the sake of the millions who would never agree with this Bill if they fully understood all that it encompasses. Please click on the web site below. It will take less than a minute of your time, doesn't cost anything and God will bless you for standing up for Him and His teachings.

"The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is that good people do nothing"
http://www.fightfoca.com/

For more information on what a partial-birth abortion click on NPR Partial-birth Abortion

TJEd Annual Form for 2009

2009-01-08T15:53:00.000-08:00

Mark your Calendars, it's time for the TJEd Annual Forum for 2009. It will be held on March 7th, in Salt Lake City.
If you are interested, the web site is found on http://www.tjedmarketplace.com/.

Early birds must register by Feb 7th, 2009.
Prices at a glance:

Early Bird Adult $52.00
Early Bird Couple: $72.00

Regular Price Adult: $72.00
Regular Price Couple: $92.00

There are special events the day before that cost more if you would like to go earlier. I am personally only attending, on March 7th myself. I think that you can order lunch through the conference or leave to get lunch. What a wonderful time to have a get-away!

Beaker's "Ode To Joy"

2009-01-05T17:26:00.000-08:00

We are having a blast studying classical musicians with our kids. Whoever said classical music couldn't be fun? Ode To Joy is my 13-month-old's favorite song. She dances around to it every time I play it on the piano. Enjoy!

My greatest blessings call me Mom

2008-12-31T13:44:00.000-08:00

For Christmas, I received from my sister-in-law a decorative tile embossed beautifully with the words, "My greatest blessings call me Mom." I was so touched by the message that it was hard for me to read it to my children for the frog in my throat. My oldest asked me, "Mom, are we really your greatest blessings?" From experience, I figured I was safe to assume that her question would be sarcastic. That is one of my traits I unfortunatly passed on. But as she asked, I listened to the tone of her voice. The sarcasm was lacking. I looked at her face, and the sneering smile was missing. All I heard was the voice of a child who hadn't been assured enough of my love for her. And all I saw was the yearning in her eyes--the need to know that I treasured her more than all worldly treasures.

I realized that I had taken for granted my children's knowledge that I love them (and their father) more than anyone else on this earth. I just assumed that they knew. Sadly enough, it is not for lack of me saying it that they question my love. I tell them all the time. But my actions--my inability to control my temper, my wiggling out of commitments I hoped they would forget, my demand for perfection--all told a different story.

None of us is perfect. We all make mistakes. I could as easily have listed the good things I do as the things I mess up. I am so grateful that we have a Savior that allows us to repent and change. I am equally as grateful that a loving Heavenly Father sent children to earth with forgiving hearts. I don't know when my heart changed from that childlike love to a judgemental cynical one, but I am working to recapture that love. And with five wonderful gifts from God here to show me how, I'll get there.

Storytelling Helps Children Bond with Parents

2008-12-30T06:50:00.001-08:00

A bedtime story is every child's birthright. Ending the day with a parent reading to them or telling them a tale is an integral part of normal growth and development. Storytelling is as old as language itself. The first yarn was probably told about a day and a half after the spoken word was invented. Others have contended that storytelling is a natural consequence of trying to understand our own dreams, and fables and myths are the attempt to explain the unexplainable.

For the child and parent, reading together has great mutual advantages. Probably the most important is that a parent is there. Having the child intimately close is one of the real reasons to read to children. It is not a race for them to shut their eyes and the parent to close the book and turn out the light. Love is taught by physical presence.

At bedtime, heroes are introduced to a child. The verbal modeling of greatness or goodness from stories can plant similar seeds in the fertile mind of a child. From the ancients the heroics of Odysseus or Hercules or the wonders of Krishna fill the early nights. Religious history also has its mighty righteous warriors who fight for truth and justice and the gentle heroines who gain victories without the sword. Today it is Spider-Man or Batman but their job is still to vanquish evil. Fear is conquered along with the bad guy.

One of the soothing powers of talking to children is simply the soft sound of the parent's gentle speech. Recognition of the maternal voice is already established at birth since the fetus has been eavesdropping on her conversations for the past while.

The calming voice of a parent is what can still the storm of children and bandage their wounds. It is not a coincident that traditional mental health treatment is called talk therapy or that divine reassurance can come from the sounds of a still small voice.

Stories from the nursery also have an interesting power for the child to experience distress and learn to overcome it. Hansel and Gretel is one of the most famous yet scary stories of childhood.

The worse fear of any child is the thought of losing a parent. The next is the fear of an abusing parent and the last is the rejection of a parent. Hansel and Gretel had all three. Their mother dies, the stepmother is cruel, and they are abandoned by their father. Yet in spite of all these crises, and not counting the creepy culinary habits of the witch, brother and sister triumph with resourcefulness.

With listening, not seeing a TV or movie, children are able to self-edit the creepy parts. They can determine how deep and dark are the woods. In modern media, adults, not children, decide how spooky is the forest and how ugly is the witch.

It is not just the telling of their ultimate reunion with a repentant father that gives the folk tale a happy ending. Instead it is the act of reading the scary parts that a parent becomes the antidote. By being present the parent metabolizes the toxicity of the poisonous fear.

Interestingly, one of the more successful treatment modalities in adults for post traumatic stress disorder, PTSD, is to have the patient re-experience the memories and emotions with someone who is trusted in a safe and secure setting. It is like an adult bedtime story on steroids. This reconstruction attaches new emotions to the old fears, facilitating the brain to heal. They learn they can handle the panic. This facing of fear with trust is similar to what a child encounters with storytelling by a sensitive parent.

It is like bedtime storytelling is a mini-psychological session to prevent or treat childhood PTSD with the parent as the therapist. All of a sudden, "And they lived happily ever after" has a whole new meaning.

Joe Cramer, M.D., is a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics, practicing pediatrician for more than 25 years and an adjunct professor of pediatrics at the University of Utah. He can be reached at jgcramermd@yahoo.com.

We No Longer Own a TV

2008-12-20T18:08:00.000-08:00

Well, it's official. Our family no longer owns a TV. We sold our large TV and entertainment center to my sister and they came to pick it up today. We took our small one to the thrift store. It honestly feels a little strange... like an old friend has moved out of our house.

My husband and I decided to do this two nights ago when my five-year-old son had a melt down about us watching TV when he went to bed. He has only watched educational DVDs for the last two months. We realized that we were not being consistent, even hypocritical in stating that the children were not allowed to watch TV, but my son could hear us watch it every time he went to bed. Our example is the most powerful thing we can offer our children, and we need to live what we preach.

My son has been thrilled about the TVs absence. He knows that we are going to do family time instead of "turn off your brain time."

We took most of our DVDs to Hastings and got in-store credit to by some books we have wanted. I tried to save only the DVD we felt were classics (that we can watch on the computer.) I did also save some fun children DVDs for long car trips (like the 8 hours to Grandma's for Christmas.)

We bought a book shelf and put it in the entertainment center's place for more books. I feel like we now have a room dedicated to learning, instead of entertaining. It is so Liberating!

The Statesmen

2008-11-19T10:14:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, my husband and two other fathers met for the first official "Statesmen" book group discussion. Their first read was "The Inferno" from Dante's Divine Comedy.

If any other Fathers are interested in joining them, check out their web site at: statesmenread.blogspot.com
The Statesmen plan to read "Red Badge of Courage," by Stephan Crane. Their next meeting is December 16th at 7:30pm

A Return To Love

2008-11-12T20:05:00.000-08:00

Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate.
Our deepest fear
is that we are powerful beyond measure.
It is our light, not our darkness,
that most frightens us.
We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous,
talented and fabulous?
Actually who are we not to be?
You are a child of God.
Your playing small doesn't serve the world.
There is nothing enlightened about shrinking
so that other people
won't feel insecure around you.
We are all meant to shine as children do.
We were born to make manifest
the glory of God that is within us.
It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone.
And when we let our own light shine,
we unconsciously give other people
permission to do the same.
As we are liberated from our own fear,
our presence automatically liberates others.

From A Return to Love by Marianne Williamson

Adult is to “making a living” as Child is to “compulsory education”

2008-11-11T11:34:00.000-08:00

My husband leaves home to go to work at 8 AM every day; he is home by 5 PM. He gets one hour for lunch and two 15 min. breaks. We live close to his office so his commute is very short. He works 40 hours a week. Sometimes he has to work 60+ hour weeks, bringing his laptop home or leaving in the early hours of the morning but this “crunch time” never lasts long. The people he works with treat him with respect and he feels safe at his job site. If he didn’t like his job or the people he worked with he could speak to his manager about a change. If no change could be made he could apply to work somewhere else or he could choose to stick it out.

My neighbor’s daughter is 6 years old. She leaves on the bus around 8 AM the school is just over one mile but the bus route takes nearly ¾ of an hour in good weather. She gets home at 4PM. She is in school for 35 hours a week. She gets ½ hour for lunch and another ½ hour for recess break (I have heard that some elementary schools no longer hold recess). She always has homework but she is only in first grade so it is not much, an average of ½ hour a day. If she was a high school student it could easily be as much as 2-3 hours or more bringing her per week school time past the 40 hour mark and that doesn't yet include an instrument, sports, clubs etc. The students she goes to school with are often cruel, spiteful, and vulgar; she does not always feel safe there. If she doesn’t like her teacher or classmates, there is nothing she can do about it. If her parents don’t like her teacher or classmates it is unlikely they can do anything about it but hope for better next year. Getting summer off seems to be the only perk. If her mom worked, she’d spend her summer in day care. (I need hardly add that adults are emotionally far more mature than children and thus far more capable of voicing their concerns and dealing with stressful working conditions.)

What happened to make childhood only 5 years long? What is so fascinating about our adult lives that we want to rid ourselves of these precious bundles of laughter and bright-eyed curiosity (which we so desperately wanted only 5 yrs ago)? Why all this homework? Don’t say it’s to keep parents involved! Leaving parents time to play and laugh with their children…that’s quality parental involvement.

How is it that so many people don’t see the educational system for what it is? These are C-H-I-L-D-R-E-N… there will be plenty of time for full-time employment later—years and years and years of it!

Okay, now I know you all agree with me... so, now, what do we do about it?! We Home School our own children and that is wonderful! But when people ask us about Home School are we quiet? Are our eyes downcast? Do we meekly respond that it is what's best for our family or do we get a sparkle in our eyes and talk (not preach) but talk excitedly about how wonderful it is, how we wish we could have been taught this way, how much the kids are learning, how enthusiastic they are, and how much they know? We don't need to preach or start arguments to get others thinking. Being outspoken doesn't mean we have to make ANY comments whatsoever about what others have chosen... but lets not apologize for what we have chosen, and for what is working WONDERFULLY in our own homes! Maybe, just maybe we'll spark some interest, ignite research, and give someone the nudge they need to burst forth into the Home Education culture that we love so much!

Give it a try next time someone asks you why-- just show them all that enthusiasm that you have & go off on some project your kids are doing or some wonderful thing they said-- heck, tell them how your kids feel sorry for all those kids locked up till almost dinner time!

Don't apologize for having found something AMAZING and EFFECTIVE for your family! Share what you believe in with a big smile on your face, a gleam in your eye, and be sure to mention that you DO get time to yourself as well ! (If you don't, just hang on till the toddlers are older and you will!)

Click on this title to read about the Rights of the Family

2008-11-10T09:47:00.000-08:00

I started reading this article and thought "Yeah right, it'll never get THAT bad!" Then I learned that each of the oh-so-far-fetched scenarios had actually happened... recently!

Diane

Math U See

2008-11-07T16:50:00.001-08:00

I just love this math program because it has manipulatives that your student can hold. Diane introduced this to me about 4 years ago (thank you) when I was tutoring special needs students in Math. This program helped the toughest student understand math. Check it out the web site here at Math U See.

They are a little pricey, but I think that it is worth the price, especially if you have more than one child who will use it. My son is very hands-on and this is just perfect for him.

Getting off the conveyor-belt and going alone

2008-11-02T23:19:00.000-08:00

I currently struggle immensely with homeschooling as I must currently work outside the home and can't seem to get my spouse on board. We both believe that this is the choice for us - or that at least we must give it a good try before we decide otherwise. This however, requires changes in lifestyle for both of us that are hard. How can we both committ together to make this happen? How do we do this when we are both being pulled in various directions and struggling in various fashions as a couple & as a family right now?

Instilling Vison and Confidence

2008-11-01T13:42:00.000-07:00

Do you ever wish that there was an easy set of rules for parenting and educating your children that worked for every child? Well, there is if we look at tribal cultures and try to model their family forms. In tribal cultures mothers and fathers are unique in their roles. Mothers are to instill VISION and Fathers should instill CONFIDENCE. If each spouse focuses on their specific role, you will raise incredible children....here's how:

Mothers Instill Vision
This is simply done by a "You are..." phrase from Mom.

You are such a good big brother.
You are so beautiful.
You are a great helper when you do the dishes.
You are such a good girl.

That's it. Try to have 15 positive interactions to every negative one, and your child will thrive!

Fathers Instill Confidence
This is simply done by a "I feel..." phrase from Dad.

I feel so proud when you help us with the dishes.
I felt disappointed when you lied today.
I feel happy when you are kind to your brother.
I feel sad when you are sad.

So Dads, it's time to get in touch with your softer side and verbalize it, if you want to instill confidence in your children.

Please note, do not try to instill confidence as a Mother, even if you are a single-mother. It will backfire on you. Instead, find another father figure that you trust (like a scout leader) to instill confidence in your child.

On a personal note, I witnessed the effect of this for the first time this last week. My son cut his chin open and needed 8 stitches. During the first half hour when we were in the ER alone, Isaac was on the verge of hysteria (he is only five). Once Dad walked in I was simply amazed at the confidence my son felt. He was clam the rest of the duration of the ER visit. I found my self reflecting on what caused Isaac to change, and concluded that this basic tribal family form was true! I was so thrilled I had to share this little bit of wisdom I had discovered.

What about "Socialization?"

2008-10-28T19:34:00.000-07:00

Time, after time we are asked about our children's "socialization" when they are educated at home. This cartoon was drawn by a home schooling father. If only those who ask us could see the results that we experience first-hand.

Never Say Never

2008-10-26T22:07:00.000-07:00

A few years ago when I was younger, more naive, and not married; I was dating a young man who I was quite serious with. We had discussed children numerous times and he told me that he would prefer I have them naturally. I proceeded to laugh and decide he was crazy. I later, after marrying my husband, had no choice but to deliver my stillborn son , naturally and am truly grateful I did. I proceeded to have my next two children without pain meds as well (though I did have piction with one labor to speed things up). I share this because I thought the same exact thingwhen I was introduced to the idea of homeschooling. I had met a gal - who was newly married and already reading the 5 Pillars classics & preparing herself to homeschool her children and I thought - quite frankly - she's nuts. However, she and another mutuaal friend proceeded to introduce me to A Thomas Jefferson Education and I couldn't put the book down. I finally understood for the first time ever why I was so unhappy with my schooling experience and could recall very little of what I had learned. It made me determined to make sure that my children never suffered such a fate if i could have any say in it.

I call myself a homeschooling mom now because I do all I can to provide daily learning experiences planned and othrwise for my son & daughter. I strive to make note of what works with what child, and what interests each of them. I strive to instill in them the qualities , values, & principles my parents instilled in me.

I never thought in a million year I would be one of those "homeschooling moms", but I am more than proud to wear the badge now .

The Baby IS the Lesson

2008-10-23T11:43:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share one of the articles that helped me have the courage to home school - even with having a baby. This is by Diane Hopkins

One morning on my daily walk, I was fretting and stewing over what I could possibly do with my one-year-old during school time. I was feeling some despair with a new baby on its way. I couldn't see any end to the disruption of babies in my home school for many years to come. I was praying and scheming at the same time: I could wait until the baby's nap to teach school, I could rotate the children with baby-sitting chore away from our schoolroom, I could get a playpen, etc.: all solutions that didn't feel right--babies needs their moms!As I walked and pondered, suddenly the Lord introduced one sentence to my mind and revolutionized my mindset entirely! "The baby IS the lesson!" I thought I was trying to teach Math, but in reality I had been teaching, day by day, how an adult values the precious gift of children. My children, by watching how I deal with the frustration of a crying baby or keep a toddler happy and busy with some of his "own" pieces while we play a math game, are soaking up "the lesson". Unfortunately, I had occasionally been teaching that the baby interrupts our learning.How to be a Christlike person is the most valuable lesson a child could ever learn! The lesson is learned moment by moment; watching a parent being patient, handling frustration with kindness, pressing on for the goal in spite of numerous interruptions, valuing each child's needs regardless of inconvenience. That valuable insight--how Mother handles the baby is the real lesson--has dramatically changed how I view my home school.

I am teaching foremost my values: godly character, kindness, respect for others, individuality, sacrifice and a host of other Christlike attributes. Teaching them reading, writing, math, etc. is very important to me but my perspective has been altered. "Mimic me, follow me and I will show you the way a Christlike person acts and what he values". That is the message every parent relays to their children whether they are aware of it or not. Children try to copy everything anyway (our mannerisms, our daily activities, etc.). We must be certain that we are providing a correct pattern for them to copy, not only in our daily activities but in our attitude, our tone of voice, and our facial expression. We need to conduct our lives so that we can say "follow me". If our children are to "buy" our values, what a tremendous responsibility we have to make sure we are living our best so the lesson is clear and well learned! What more could you ask for from your homeschool than to produce Christlike people?!Teaching your children basically means getting your own personal life in order and striving daily to be the leader for them to follow. Of course, we fall short and they must look to Christ for the perfect being but they need to see daily how one acts, speaks, lives, solves problems. We are acting as a proxy, in a sense, for Christ. Since they can't have his daily role model, then he has given his children parents to be an example, to point the way. Along with lesson preparations, we need to prepare ourselves by asking: is the pattern I live the way Christ would act? Can I say today that I have marked the path for my children to follow? Children learn from seeing their parent's role model. Watching an adult make a simple mistake (such as being too punitive with a child) and go through the process of repenting is 100 times more effective than your devotional lesson on repentance. This means children must be intimately involved with you in your daily life. A few hours a day after school won't do it.Children should be involved in the adult's life rather than daily life rotating around the children.

Research has shown that children who have grown up to be productive well-adjusted adults are those who have been drawn into the parent's world; their daily activities, work, and interests; rather than having parents who centered their world on the child. When I began home schooling, I never could find the time to do the things I felt were important for my life; such as writing in my journal, corresponding with relatives, studying my scriptures, and more. Somehow, in my busy-ness of trying to teach the kids how to write in their journals, I was neglecting my own journal writing. Thankfully, we now have journal writing time in school daily, and we write letters to relatives together as a family on Sunday. Homeschool life should help parents do the daily necessities, rather than usurp the time needed for them. Home maintenance, chores, food preparation, gardening, food preservation, budgeting, clothing care (mending and sewing), planning family social relationships, caring for small children, record keeping, quilting, wallpapering, etc. are all wonderful life skills that can be done together that enhance a child's education!The parent's joyful task is to lead and guide the child into the real world--not set up a contrived pseudo-world to teach skills that the children would easily learn if they spent their time around adults who were striving to live good lives. What constitutes an adult trying to live a "good life"? Being a productive adult would constitute a full-time curriculum! Plant a garden, read good literature, serve the needy, be politically aware, keep a journal, vote for honest men, develop your talents, etc. The exciting part about leading a child into the real world is that they are self-motivated. The moment I sit down to play the piano, all my children want to play and want me to teach them to play something. No sooner than I begin typing on the computer, I have the whole family "needing" to type. My efforts at writing have, humorous to me, stimulated the production of "books" from my youngest children.

Modeling is so much more effective than lecturing. Studies show that the biggest determining factor for a child's success in reading in school is if they have seen a parent reading in the home on a regular basis. This is especially true for boys if the parent who reads is their father, rather than their mother. Somehow, the example says far more about the value of reading than endless hours in school reading groups.In every area, it takes instruction to teach skills to little people. Children need to master the basic academic skills (reading, writing, arithmetic), social manners, music competence, and a host of other abilities and that does take focused concentration and time from mother/teacher to accomplish. It isn't realized just by living in a family. But shared family life practices and contributes to those skills. Having taught my little girl the numbers and the plus, minus and equal signs and how they worked, she jumped right into figuring out how many plates she needed to set the table using her new skills: ("We have 9 and the boys are gone to college so that is minus 3, so we need six").

When we think of homeschool, sometimes we get tunnel vision, and think "academics", "keeping up to speed" and other worrisome concerns that don't really tell the whole story. Homeschool is the growing and nurturing of fine, upright people. So, how we treat and value the baby really is the lesson.Class never dismissed.—Diane Hopkins

Too true Cartoon!

2008-10-21T21:58:00.001-07:00

I love this cartoon! It makes me laugh but it also makes me sad... all those wasted years of my own youth.... I am posting this in an effort to remind all of us not to just "do school" at home... let's find a better way to raise our children's generation, (no not just our own children)... let's challenge ourselves and our children, let's change our lost and confused society! Let's be the few, the proud, the homeschoolers (sounds corny, but I mean it!) Let's not be ashamed of the choice we made to train our children up in the way they should go--24/7!

Linder Farms

2008-10-17T18:53:00.000-07:00

Today over twelve home schooling families met at Linder Farms for a Pumpkin Patch field trip.
We had a great time with the petting animals (even a camel and zebra,) hay bale and corn maze, and a hay ride pulled by an old tractor.
Each child was able to take a pumpkin home, as long as they were able to carry it.
What a wonderful way to enjoy autumn's adventures.

Classical Music Curriculum

2008-10-15T14:29:00.000-07:00

Adult Sources:
A. Copeland, What to Listen for in Music
B. Kavanaugh, Spiritual Lives of the Great Composers
C. Fuller, How to Grow a Young Music Lover

October Vivaldi
Suggested Music: The Four Seasons (a must), Violin Concerto in A Minor, Op. 3, 6
Audio: Classical Kids: Vivaldi's Ring of Mystery, Douglas Cowling,
Other possible sources: Introducing Vivaldi, Roland Vernon Musical concept: volume

November Peter Tchaikovsky
Suggested Music: 1812 Overture, Nutcracker Suite
Audio: Classical Kids, Tchaikovsky Discovers America, Susan Hammond
Famous Children Series, Ann Rachlin
Fieldtrip: Nutcracker Suite
For older kids and read aloud: Two by Opal Wheeler
Other: Getting to Know the World's Greatest Composers Series, Mike Venezia
Musical concept: tempo

December Handel
Suggested Music: Messiah, Joy to the World (about Second Coming), Soulful Celebration (try it!), Firework Music, Water Music
Adult: Spiritual Lives, The Man who Wrote Messiah, D. Berreby, Reader's Digest Apr. '92
Audio: Classical Kids Series, Hallelujah Handel, Douglas Cowling
Book: Famous Children
Video: Handel's Last Chance, Devine, D. For older kids or read aloud: Handel at the Court of Kings, Opal Wheeler
Fieldtrip: Handel's Messiah
Other: Handel: Who Knew What he Liked
Getting to Know the World's Greatest Composers Series, Mike Venezia
Musical concept: melody

January Bach
Suggested Music: Joy to Man's Desiring, Brandenburg Concerto #2, Minuet in G
Adult: Spiritual Lives
Audio: Mr. Bach Comes to Call, S. Hammond (Classical Kids Series)
Video: Bach's Fight for Freedom
Book: Famous Children Series, Ann Rachlin; Bach's Goldberg Variations, Anna Harwell Celenza
Older Kids or read aloud: Sebastian Bach: Boy from Thuringa, Opal Wheeler
Other sources: Sebastian, J. Winter
Glory and Honor: The Musical and Artistic Legacy of Johann Sebastian Bach, Gregory Wilbur
Getting to Know the World's Greatest Composers Series, Mike Venezia
Musical concept: rhythm

February Franz Joseph Haydn
Suggested Music: Thanks to our Father, Primary Children's Songbook p. 20, The Seasons, The Creation, Symphonies 45 and 94, Op. 76, #3; 76, # 4
Book: Famous Children Series, Haydn, A. Rachlin; The Farewell Symphony, Celenza; The Surprise Symphony, Celenza
For older kids or read aloud: Haydn: The Merry Little Peasant, Opal Wheeler
Musical concept: pitch

March Wolfgang Amadaeus Mozart
Suggested Music: Ah, Vous Dirais-je (Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star), The Magic Flute, The Marriage of Figaro Overture
Adult: Spiritual Lives
Audio: Classical Kids Series: Mozart's Magic Fantasy: a Journey Through the Magic Flute, Mozart's Magnifican Voyage, D. Cowling
Book: The Magic Flute: Anne Gatti (book and CD),
Famous Children Series
Video: The Magic Flute (DVD in system claims to be for children)
For older kids or read aloud: Mozart the Wonder Boy, Opal Wheeler
Mozart, Scenes from the Childhood of the Great Composers, E. Brighton
Mozart Tonight, J. Downing
Getting to Know the World's Greatest Composers Series, Mike Venezia
Musical concept: harmony

April Ludwig von Beethoven
Suggested Music: Symphonies 5 and 9, The Heroic Symphony, Piano music 8 and 14, Hallelujah Chorus from Christ on the Mount of Olives
Adult: Spiritual Lives
Video: Beethoven Lives Upstairs (also in book and audio)
Book: Value Tales: The Value of Giving, The Heroic Symphony, A. H. Celenza, Famous Children Series
For older kids or read aloud: Beethoven and the Chiming Tower Bells, Opal Wheeler
Other sources: Getting to Know the World's Greatest Composers Series, Mike Venenzia
Musical concept: some singing instruction

May Frederic Chopin
Suggested Music: Revolutionary Etude Op. #10, #20, Fantasy Impromptu Op. #66, Etude in A Minor, Op. #25, and #11
Adult: Spiritual Lives
Book: Famous Children, Chopin, A. Rachin
For older kids or read aloud: Frederic Chopin: Early Years, Frederic Chopin: Later Years, Frederic Chopin: Son of Poland all by Opal Wheeler

June
Other Stuff Too Good to Miss! Maybe take a week on each?
Camile Saint Saens: Carnival of the Animals (look for the video, too), Danse Macabre
Pacabel's Cannon
Gerswin: Rhapsody in Blue, Book: Gershwin's Rhapsody in blue, Anna Harwell Celenza
For older kids: George Gerswin, American Composer, C. Reef
Meet the Orchestra, by Ann Hayes in conjunction with Peter and the Wolf
Musical concept: tone color

Other Composers for some other time
Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy, Hark, the Herald Angels sing
A Midsummer Night's Dream
Spiritual Lives
Hidden Music: The Life of Fanny Mendelssohn, G. Kamen
Mendelssohn, Melodic Masterpieces
Famous Composers for Young People, G. Burch

Johannes Brahms, Hungarian Dance #5
Wiegenlied, Brahms Lullaby
Symphony #1, Op.68
Savior Hear Us When we Pray
Spiritual Lives
Famous Children Series

Paper Music: Bobby McFerrin conducts and sings classics
Discoveries in Music or Melody Lane, Calvert School
Classical Kids, Song of the Unicorn and A Classical Kids Christmas both by Susan Hammond
The Accidental Voyage (a Mr. Pipes), Douglas Bond
Mr. Pipes and Psalms and Hymns of the Reformation, Douglas Bond
Mr. Pipes comes to America, Douglas Bond
books by Majorie Persons?
Can You Name that Classical Tune?
Pictures at at Exhibition
World's Very Best Opera for Kids
The A to Z of Classical Music
Franz Schubert: Life and Words
Famous Children Series: Schumann
Bravo! Brava! A Night at the Opera, Anne Siberell
Robert Schumann and Mascot Ziff, Opal Wheeler
The Gift of Music, Smith
Classical Kids: Bizet's Dream, Liszt's Rhapsody, Rossini's Ghost, D. Devine
Silent Night: The song and its Story

Can I Really Do Home Schooling?

2008-10-13T18:38:00.000-07:00

I have to admit that I in many ways am still trying to get off the conveyor belt. A part of me still wonders if Isaac, my 5-year-old son, should be getting on the bus that takes the kindergartners to school that passes our house everyday. Most of his peers whom we have known from infancy are on this bus.

When I hear the other parents talk about how wonderful their child's teacher is, or "My son is starting to read," I think to myself...Can I really do this? Isaac can't even identify every letter of the alphabet yet, let a lone phonetically sound out new words. Am I really cut out for this? Isaac can not begin to compete with what his peers can do academically.

I then remind myself that academics are not a competition. Although Isaac would much rather swing and jump on the trampoline (what 5-year-old boy wouldn't) than formally sit down and learn his letters, I believe deep inside that I can make this work. Each day, Isaac's primary curriculum is to learn: appropriate relationships, how to work, and our faith. Every once in a while he is interested in a letter that he naturally finds in his world around him.

Today I had an "OK, may-be home schooling will work" moment. As I was watching a 3-year-old little boy, Isaac asked him to come sit down so he could "read" a library book to him. Isaac preceded to tell the story in his own words to his friend, page by page. It was awesome. I was amazed at Isaac's ability to recall the story that he had only heard once, and how excited he was to share it with his friend.

I hope to someday have Isaac try to teach his younger sisters to read. I guess right now I am going to trust my instincts that he will have a desire to learn to read on his own as long as my husband and I continue to exemplify reading and learning.

Need I Say More?

2008-10-12T21:56:00.000-07:00

I belong to a online group of women who share my religious beliefs and one of them just shared a link with us about the effects same-sex marriage will have on our families - even our most precious little ones. Thankfully - I do not have to worry about this yet as the great state I currently reside in hasn't felt the need to press for this issue - but not all of us are this blessed. The link shares a story of a family in Massachusetts whose kindergarten son brought home a "diversity" backpack which included a book in which same-sex marriage was introduced. The parents were quite upset & approached the school about the issue stating that they should at least get a letter home about this and have the opportunity for their children to opt out of such a learning experience. Can you see where this is going? I really encourage you - no matter where you live - to check out this quick video. It's just yet another reason why I choose to home school.

School?

2008-10-09T22:09:00.000-07:00

At our house we don't do "school". We have routines like get dressed, make your bed, brush your teeth... Then we have fiddle practice. Then Caden goes down for his nap and we gather for what we call school. It consists of a devotional of sorts where we have morning family prayer and then we study out of Gospel Principles together. Then we have "kids school" where I teach them whatever I feel like for anywhere from 5 minutes to an hour. Then they build things or draw or read while I study. Then we usually we have really great discussions around the lunch table about what we've each learned.
I have found that everyone remembers what they study themselves a lot better than they remember what they are "taught" plus, it really adds to the learning of the whole family when everyone learns what they are excited about and then teaches the rest of us.
For example, on Tuesday, we were studying the story of Daniel in the Lions Den as part of our study of Gospel Principles and Colin remembered that he had heard in The Story of the World that King Nebuchadnezzar had gone mad and ate grass. Somehow in my almost 30 years of life I'd never heard that story so we looked it up in Daniel. Sure enough he was right on, as usual. So we talked about that for a minute.
Later that night we told Randy what we'd learned just before he picked up The Long Winter to read to us. Three pages into chapter 31 he read, "'Could we eat grass?' Carrie asked. 'No, Nebuchadnezzar,' Pa laughed." Then, of course, we all laughed. It was great. I have read that book at least three times and never got that reference before Colin taught me the story. I love it when our books talk to each other and when my kids teach me things!

Sometimes I do freak out a bit and get nervous that we will miss something or some crazy fear like that. At those times, I take it to the Lord in prayer and he always comes through for me.
Two Examples:
1 - Geography.
I have issues with geography because the only thing I remember about geography is sitting in that basement room that had a lot of rolled up maps on the wall in the Jefferson. We colored a lot, don't remember what, and I remember wishing I could be across the hall in the library or the cafeteria instead. How was I going to "teach" my kids geography?!!
I read somewhere that the best way to learn geography was to draw maps. My artistic skills were killed in kindergarten when the class laughed at the "flower" hands that I drew. Those weren't petals - they were fingers! How was I going to "teach" my kids to draw maps.
I prayed about it and later that day at "school" I pulled out the Draw Write Now books and drew myself a chicken. I CAN draw and it's fun! I finished up the chicken with a barn and some hills. Caden helped me with the "finishing touches."

I left the books out on the table and went to make lunch. They were still out that night so Colin took one to bed with him after prayers, scriptures and stories. He came down to the kitchen around 10:00 holding a map of Australia he'd drawn. God does answer prayers! I didn't even know that maps were in that book. Colin has since drawn many, many maps and has big plans for building an interactive web page using his pictures.

2-Long Division
I do fine at good old fashioned arithmetic. I love it. Robyn spends hours doing her math workbooks and we have great times together. Colin doesn't particularly care for workbooks - as a general rule, they bore him silly. He spends hours working out problems that matter to him. He adds the letters in the alphabet using either the corresponding number on the telephone pad or the number the letter is in the alphabet (1-26). He even can add roman numerals and binary numbers. I cannot "teach" him math. I searched for math books that we could find common ground with and I think I found one. It's Life of Fred. Problem is, you have to know long division before you start.
I prayed about math and, the next day, Colin asked me how many 22s were in 72. He had made himself a game and didn't want to count the 72 spaces. He knew that there were 22 spaces on the board so if he knew how many 22s were in 72 he wouldn't have to count so much. He now knows a bit about long division.

Life is so fun!

Why do I Homeschool?

2008-10-09T12:38:00.000-07:00

Hmm…
Time spent sitting at the table “doing school”(with classical music playing in the back ground): 2 ½ hours.
Time spent at the park playing catch with Dad during his lunch break: ½ hour.
Time spent lying on the grass with my children while eating cookies and reading C.S. Lewis together: 2+ hours.
Time spent doing whatever I wanted while my children created and played with “robot/alien/astronaut” costumes out of tinfoil, boxes, and various odd items: at least 3 hours.
…and that is only part of an average day!

It is widely documented that on average homeschooled students of all ages test higher than public and private school students –regardless of their parent’s education. In light of all the available research (see stats here) it seems that those who send their children to regular brick & mortar schools must have some reason for doing so other than the quality of their children's education. Perhaps both parents must work outside the home, one may have poor health, some may feel unqualified (if so, please re-read the first sentence in this paragraph more closely). Certainly there are some legitimate reasons; many of my friends admit they simply don’t like being around their children for too long, they need more time for themselves. (I commend their ability to look their decision squarely in the face and see it clearly for what it is.)

Another big issue with homeschooling is represented by the question I am most frequently asked, “What about SOCIALIZATION?!”

I have occasionally answered (with a twinkle in my eye) that "We’ve found the perfect solution to all of that… I just beat them up, steal their lunch money, and lock them in the bathroom once a week. Sometimes their dad and I won’t speak to them for a whole day because they were friendly with someone we don’t like, or ‘cause they didn’t dress in-vogue. Don’t worry, we know how important it is for our children to get a real school experience!” :)

In all honesty, no, homeschooled children are not socialized the same way public school students are, instead they are socialized the way the world truly is. Unless the family tries to be hermits they will inevitably socialize. In merely going about your daily life you interact regularly with all ages and in all kinds of situations. When you homeschool you simply take your children along through life with you, daily modeling appropriate socialization with immediate & extended family, neighbors, ecclesiastical leaders, librarians, people in the grocery store etc. All the homeschooled children I know will say “hello” to their siblings in public!! :) No, this is not the same kind of socialization! There are no clicks, negative pressure, or exclusion based on fashion or experience… instead there is love, acceptance, and guidance by those who truly care for their well-being. Homeschooled children still learn to work in a group, accept direction from adults other than their parents, and how to stick to a deadline; but more than all of this, they are allowed to explore, discover, dream, and be themselves. They are generally given a great deal of educational freedom (how shocking!) but studies repeatedly show us that they are more intelligent, creative, and enthusiastic about learning (and, I believe, happier) than their brick & mortar counterparts.

...And people ask me why I homeschool!

A Great and Spacious Building Without a Foundation

2008-10-07T19:19:00.001-07:00

Is it any wonder that we have been warned to have no debt, a year supply of food storage, and three months of income in savings. I am so grateful for council we have received, so that we may not have to have anything to fear.

It's interesting what experts are now saying about our country's current situation --Read what Suze Orman says. May we all learn to live "Honest" financial lives...

No TV Allowed...or Wanted?

2008-09-17T13:45:00.000-07:00

After our last camping trip to the East Eagles, I was trying to clean up and recover while taking care of the kids. That morning Isaac asked me if he could watch TV right when he got out of bed. Then at breakfast, then while we were doing the dishes. And again, "can I watch TV now." That's it! I had had enough. I am so tired of being hounded with TV power struggles, so I said "No more TV!"

Isaac had a few melt downs over the next week. I found I had to get up before the kids to shower and find things for them to do in the afternoon. This also changed what he did when he went over to grandma's house every weekend. Heaven forbid that we now have to interact all day... But after we all have adjusted to this new lifestyle (yes this has been a lifestyle change) we are getting along beautifully. The most amazing part as been that Isaac's imaginary play has sky rocked! He is pretending all the time.

But the crazyest thing happened; when I was canning this last week, I asked Isaac if he wanted to pick out a DVD because I felt bad for ignoring him so much. I could not believe his response. It was, "No thanks. I think I will go outside and play." Needless to say I stood in my kitchen in shock as I watched Isaac go outside and swing. I guess TV is no longer even wanted...

Preserving the Art of Preserving

2008-09-07T14:16:00.000-07:00

Today our children can go with their parents to Walmart and buy applesauce. They do not get to see the apple tree grow and produce apples. They do not pick the apples, process the apple sauce and then eat it. Todays children are becoming very disconnected with the natural processes of life. We are trying to preserve this at least in our own family.

Today we produced nearly 100 quarts of apple sauce. Richard, Isaac, Jen and Uncle Craig went to the church orchard and picked 7 bushels of apples and 5 bushels of peaches. We hope that Isaac had a hands-on experience in the natural processes of making applesacue.
Thanks to the help of Aunt Jessie, McKinzee and Jen, we were able to be an apple sauce factory at our house. Over all there were only few mishaps...a couple singed off eye lashes and burned fingers...but I think we did all right...11 hours later...

Our Family's Education

2008-08-30T13:44:00.000-07:00

I wrote a paper for my book group on Thomas Jefferson Education by Dr. Olliver DeMille. I hope you don't mind it if I share it with you.

What do I want for each of my children? I long for each of them to be faithful, compassionate, hardworking, educated individuals; possessing a clear sense of direction towards their personal mission in life. Today, we live in a “conveyor-belt” society that naturally consumes our family’s time, energy, thoughts and values. “People sup together, play together, travel together but they do not think together. Hardly any homes have any intellectual life whatsoever.” (Pg 66) How do Richard and I remove our family off this absorbing conveyor-belt and promote intellectual life into our home?

First, we must set forth a strong foundation of our family’s faith and belief in God. The simplest way for us to do this is by slowing our lives down. When we become too busy and distracted by outside events (even too many play dates) our time is quickly eaten up and the spiritually things tend to go by the wayside first. These distractions may all be “good” things, but the spiritual teachings we can share with our children are “better.” When your life is quiet and simplified, it allows the spirit to return to your home and all are edified within.

Second, we wish for each of our children to have compassionate relationships. Teaching them academics is very important to us, but how to be Christ-like is the most valuable lesson a child could ever learn.

Next, it is a joyful task to lead and guide each child into the “real world” of a productive adult. My curriculum involves: laundry, dishes, cooking, gardening, reading, singing, playing the piano and violin, sewing and caring of our baby. Richard’s includes: mowing the lawn, car maintenance, studying, and household repairs. Naturally children love to “play” at the work you do, so let them come along for the ride. When I do the dishes, the younger ones play with dishes at our feet while the older ones contribute to the chore. Once a work ethic is established through daily responsibilities, it can easily be transferred to academics latter.

Finally, we desire each of our children to become genuinely educated. As parents, we must inspire them to educate themselves. Richard’s strongest impression he felt after reading this book was that he was not fully educated after all. We, as parents are trying to fill in the gaps of our own education by reading the classics ourselves. Although it is challenging, we have found that as Oliver DeMille states, “You as the reader awaken. Your exposure to greatness changes you: your ideas are bigger, your dreams wilder, your plans more challenging, your faith more powerful.” (Pg 71) Already our excitement to study has begun to inspire our children to educate themselves.

Every moment we are with our children they are watching, absorbing and mimicking us. What lessons do we want them to learn? As parents we must consciously exemplify the attributes of faith, compassion, work and education in our home because: “Indeed, coaching occurs one way or another, even if just by bad example or ambivalence.” (Pg 89)

In our home class is never dismissed!

Shetland Ponies

2008-06-08T13:23:00.000-07:00

This month we are learning about horses and ponies.

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The kids were so at ease with these Shetland Ponies. They enjoyed riding, feeding, and grooming them.

This little farm had three babies, one was only a week old and the kids were able to pet it.

"Mommy Brains" Antidote

2008-05-30T14:02:00.000-07:00

I have started a book reading group with one of my best friends to help reverse our minds from turning into "Mommy-Brains" mush. Jane Eyre is our fourth book
we have already read Little Britches, Laddie and The Chosen. I will be hosting our next book discussion with six other moms at the end of June. Richard just finished it today and enjoyed it more than he thought he would. He was surprised that Jane married Mr. Rochester in the end. I am amazed at how much happier and more fulfilled I feel because I have found a way to wake up my mind and fill it with great thoughts (beyond changing diapers and doing dishes day after day!) I think this is why our kids are starting to love books too. We have to set the example.

Butterflies Ahoy!

2008-05-01T13:16:00.000-07:00

Our curriculum for this month has been the Life Cycle of Butterflies. Yesterday two of our five chrysalis' hatched into Painted Lady Butterflies.

We bought a Butterfly Garden off of Amazon.com for $17.00 and sent in the order for the 5 live cattapillers to Insect Lore.