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I received an entire set of the Eclectic Education Series from Dollar Homeschool. Remember the McGuffey Readers? Well, I don’t actually remember them personally (I’m not that old yet), however, these books were the standard in education from 1865 to 1915. These readers as well as other materials, such as Ray’s Arithmetic, were designed so thoroughly, to teach that generation as much as possible in the short amount of time they would be in school.
In Shortly after World War II John Dewey, then the head of the Teachers College at Columbia University, launched a campaign to reform education. He believed the school system should be the “state established church” and thus made it his mission to remove God, patriotism, and traditional values out of the school system. As you can see from our schools today, he was the beginning of a very successful campaign. Not only have these important values been removed from our schools, but our kids have been gradually “dumbed down”. I was particularly aware of this fact as I began to read “Harvey’s First Lessons in the English Language.” This very first lesson had words and concepts throughout that I’m not sure kids in upper elementary grades today could answer.
I realized, in reading through some of this material (I have not gotten through even half of it, there is so much here!) that what our grandparents and great-grandparents were capable of learning then, our kids are capable of learning now! We have been so conditioned not to think, not to process or retain information, that I am embarrassed about how little I actually know.
This material truly is for the eclectic style homeschooler. If you are following a traditional formal curriculum, you may not know where to even incorporate this material. However, if you want to challenge your child this would be a great way to do it! Also, this type of material is a teacher to student style, so it does require one-on-one teaching, which I enjoy, but not everyone has time to do this every day. It is for K-12, so if you are looking for an inexpensive option to homeschool your family, with a greater challenge to your learners, you really should check out this material.
The disappointing aspect is that the material, of course, is in black and white, so the McGuffey Readers in particular are not aesthetically pleasing to the child and spacing not that great. The original pictures were beautiful but over time no longer very clear. However, if you have time to devote to the material, it may be just what you are looking for.
You can purchase the Eclectic Education Series right now in its entirety for only $159. This includes Ray’s Arithmetic, Science, History, Grammer, and the famous McGuffey’s Readers. This is an astounding amount of material! Check out Dollar Homeschool to learn more, or to watch the video for more information.
I was given the above curriculum in exchange for my honest opinion only.
 I received this book by Apologia, a homeschool industry leader in Science curriculum. While I have to admit I was a little disappointed that I did not receive a Science product (because I have heard and read that they are spectacular), I had to laugh when I saw this book. This is by far the easiest product review I have ever done!
When I made the decision a little over a year ago to pull my 3 children out of public school and begin homeschooling, The Ultimate Guide to Homeschooling by Debra Bell was the first book I purchased. I know I would have floundered completely without this book. I have since read dozens of books on homeschooling, but none come close to comparing in value to this one.
I not only read this book from cover to cover in a few days (although that is only because I am OCD – it has 509 pages), but it has also been a guide for me for the past year. In many ways I have floundered trying to find my place in the HS world, my teaching style, my children’s learning styles, yet this book has offered a continual source of encouragement throughout this process.
Debra delves deeply into so many subjects, such as curriculum choices, organization and planning, how to teach, teens, computers, creative solutions and measuring your success. She actually explains in the book how to plan an entire school year for your child and offers her own yearly goals as an example. This was particularly helpful when I had no idea where to start. Her knowledge of different curriculum choices was also helpful in her Resource Guide. Need help motivating the reluctant learner? Chapter 31 is looking a little worn out in my book. You will read it over and over for encouragement, advice and valuable information that will keep reminding you why your family has set out on this journey in the first place!
You can purchase The Ultimate Guide To Homeschooling for $20. Have fun!
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion only.
 KinderBach is an online music curriculum for preschoolers (geared for children ages 2-7). The only items needed for your child to learn the piano is an inexpensive keyboard or piano, computer with high speed access, and craft materials (paper, scissors, crayons, etc).
I am very impressed with the quality of this program. The website is colorful and easy to navigate. Lessons are laid out in such a simple format and lesson times are short and sweet. Four lessons are given each week. Lots of visuals are used to plant the concepts into your young learners mind, including “Frisco”, a cartoon boy, and teacher instructor “Karri.” The videos have a bit of a “Blues Clues” feel, which is captivating for young children. Dancing, singing, coloring and of course, piano playing are all incorporated into the program. I believe I am hooked!
The cost seems very reasonable at $7.99 per month for the online subscription (if you pay a year in advance for $95.88), or you can just pay monthly at $19.99, billed monthly for one year. Watch a free video by KinderBach here. If you prefer to purchase the program by DVD, these packages are also available for $40.45 each on their website.
I was given a subscription to KinderBach through the TOS Crew in exchange for my honest opinion only.
I was given a two week trial membership (as part of the TOS Crew) of Math Score to try out with my three children. Math Score’s purpose is to use an online system to help improve your child’s math scores as well as ability to grasp and retain math concepts (grades 2 through Algebra 1). They begin with a recommendation for your child to practice basic keyboarding skills so that they can master typing in their answers without looking at the keyboard. This helps greatly in their progress in using the system.
You set up the account and enter your child’s name and age so you can customize their level of skill. Then you choose where you want to begin. For instance, for a third grader, here are some of the topics, beginning at the easier scope of skill sets:
Fast Addition
Fast Subtraction
Understanding Multiplication
Fast Division, etc.
The worksheet drills are timed, so they are to type in the answers as quickly as possible. The system keeps track of their time as well as their answers, and the questions get more difficult as mastery is achieved. On the other hand, it can be slowed down if it is not giving your child enough time and you can always back up to a less difficult topic should you jump ahead too quickly.
What I do like about this system is that these worksheets are very similar in nature to the daily drills we do with our Saxon Math program, only it is more exciting to do it on a computer that grades you, gives you online trophies for accomplishing mastery of the goals and so forth. I also like that each worksheet comes with an option for a Mini Lesson. This is really nice because it will explain the concept if your child doesn’t quite understand what to do. While I would not use this system as a stand-alone for math, I do like that it has my back on the teach side, in case my explanations aren’t getting through.
What I do not like about the software is that it is pretty bland. My kids do not clamor to use the software (although they prefer this to math drills on paper). There are some worksheets that utilize color, but mostly it is just black and white problems. I wish they could “spice it up” a little to make it more visually interesting to the child, especially with some of the word problems and younger grades, too.
All in all, if your child enjoys computers and you are looking for a supplement to your math program emphasizing on math drills, I think your child would enjoy Math Score. They do have a free trial available. Definitely check this out and try it with your kids. The cost once you sign up is $14.95 per month (per child), with discounts for additional children.
Math Score provided me a free trial through TOS in exchange for my honest opinion about their product.
I was thrilled to receive a packet including a DVD, booklet and instructions for Volume 1. My son got a guitar for Christmas but had no idea how to use it, so this has come in handy! Jean does a superb job of teaching via DVD instruction. She has a very gentle mannerism and easy pace for kids and adults alike to learn (even those of us with no previous musical experience!). It is important to me that my children learn to play an instrument, but with all that we have going on we have not had the time to get formal lessons anywhere. This guitar class can be done in the comfort of your own home, or even in a group.
The Volume One DVD includes:
Introduction
Parts of the Guitar
Tuning the Guitar
Lessons 1-7
Practice Session
Language Selection (English and Spanish)
You will learn to play a worship song with each lesson, including:
1. He’s Got the Whole World In His Hands
2. My All in All
3. More Precious Than Silver
4. Take My Life
5. Lord, I Lift Your Name on High
6. This is the Day
7. I Love You, Lord
 I highly recommend this program because it is so simple and allows you or your child to learn at their own pace. If you are a part of a homeschool group, this could also be a great idea for co-op classes. While Ms. Welles particularly focuses on guitar, she also has voice, drum and piano classes available as well. Her website is well-done with videos, and you can even watch the first lesson right on her web site. I have to give this product a total thumbs up, for presentation, ease of use, convenience and price.
You can purchase Level 1 Worship Guitar Class for $29.95, or if you want the whole shabang, the entire 4 pack Worship Guitar Class sells for $99.80. You will, of course, need a guitar for these lessons. If you don’t have one, they do have packs available that include the guitar, so check that out.
All products were given to me in exchange for my honest opinion only.
Tektoma is an internet site that teaches children ages 7-17 how to make their own video games online. They have racing, arcade, platform and fantasy adventure games available. You can play games already programmed or they will step you through making your own. If you have an avid gamer in your family with a bent towards programming, this is a total fit for you! Their are multiple tutorials, a message board as well as file sharing included in your monthly membership of $14.95 per month, or $140 per year. They do have a 14-day free trial, so I definitely recommend checking this out if you are interested. It is nice that you can build at your own pace and interest level, and new tutorials are added to the site monthly. I also like that they are committed to safety and monitor their site to be sure it stays “kid friendly.”
My 6 year old was eager to try Tektoma out but found the programming part tedious and uninteresting. I guess programming isn’t for everyone. He did, however, enjoy the pre-programmed games. I would not purchase the membership just to play these games as you can get these types of games for free. The magic is in the creation. Since this was not of interest this program is not a good fit for us. However, if in the future he starts building new Microsoft programs I’ll know he is ready 
You can run the programs on Windows XP or Vista only, so you MAC users will have to wait for future versions to come out. Also, be sure you have a broadband connection. Check out Tektoma’s site to learn more about their services www.tektoma.com.
I was given a free trial membership of this product in exchange for my honest opinion only.
Our family received a CD story of The Tortoise and the Hare by Maestro Classics, featuring the London Philharmonic Orchestra. Stephen Simon, the conductor and composer, combines classic children’s stories to symphony orchestra music. He does an excellent job of telling the story while bringing in musical instruments and verbiage to help expand the knowledge of the listeners. This is a sneaky way of educating our kids while they believe they are simply being entertained, so I like that!
These CD’s are great for bedtime or car rides. I originally put the story on during play time and they quickly tuned it out, finding it rather dry. However, in a more “captive” setting, like quiet time at night or in the car, they are more apt to enjoy this. I would recommend this for younger children. My 11 year old was not especially interested, but would listen and learn something anyway. In any event, audio stories are a win-win in our home so this was eagerly accepted.
The price of Tortoise and the Hare is $16.98. Other products include:
Peter and the Wolf
The Story of Swan Lake
The Sorcerer’s Apprentice
Casey at the Bat
Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel
Juanita the Spanish Lobster
Juanita la longosta espanola
Check out their website at www.magicmaestromusic.com.
I will tell you right up front – I am totally impressed with this spelling program!
The All About Spelling program is a “Multi-sensory Program for Spelling Success”. It is so successful because it is hands on and easy to understand for all ages. The lessons are continually reviewing previously mastered concepts, so nothing is lost. Also, because you are mastering concepts, your child can work at their own pace. Let’s talk about what is included:
When I received the curriculum package, it was very professionally packaged. I received Level One and Level Two booklets, a set of All About Spelling letter tiles, Phonogram CD-ROM and index cards. Note: The setup of the program took about two hours total for level one and two, which included cutting out the letter tiles and attaching the included magnets, as well as separating the perforated index cards and sorting them into my index card box. Once setup is complete you are really ready to begin. There is virtually no preparation necessary as the lessons are clearly outlined. A magnet board is recommended, and if you can have one set aside just for these lessons, you can store your letter tiles right on the board so they are ready each day. A Progress Chart is included as well as Completion Certificates for Level One and Level Two.
What I love about All About Spelling:
- Lesson plans are so simple – it is one less thing I have to think about every day! (major plus)
- I am all about mastery. I want my child to be successful at grasping concepts, not just rushing them through lessons so we “complete” courses on time. This curriculum is geared towards this style of teaching. You simply start your child with Level One, regardless of their age, and the faster they grasp the concept the faster they will fly through the material and on to more challenging lessons.
- I love the visual and hands on materials included. Spelling out of a book can be a bore, but when they get to be physically involved in the process they really look forward to it. There is also a feeling of accomplishment when you can physically see the stack of cards you have successfully completed over a period of time.
- The progress chart is a real key motivator.
- The same materials can be used for multiple children.
What I don’t like:
- The main trouble I had involves my 6-year-old. He is having trouble retaining his ABC’s. While Level One begins focusing on the sounds each letter makes, he is not retaining the information consistently enough for me to use this as his sole reading material. I am backtracking and using a supplemental phonics program to get him jump-started, then I can return to Level One and start over. My older children have had no trouble, however, and do fine with it.
- My older children enjoy more challenging words than are included in this material, however, learning the concepts is the real purpose, and that is sound. Also, the real point is that they are ready to move on to the higher levels, so that is what we will have to look into next
The Bottom Line:
You can check out All About Spelling website to see their products. Their Level 1 program is $29.95, which includes the teacher’s manual and student materials packet. I highly recommend you also get the Starter Packet for $26.95 because it includes all the materials mentioned above and makes teaching and preparation SO much easier. Also, this Starter Packet can be used for all levels 1 through 6.
I was not compensated for this product review. I was given a complimentary product sample in exchange for my honest opinion.
If you have never heard of America’s Heritage, I encourage you to check out their website and FREE educational materials at: http://www.americanheritage.org. This is a non-profit company dedicated to the teaching of America’s History to young people in our country, promoting freedom, unity, progress and responsibility. On their website you can request a free CD or download of their K-12 Lesson Plans. I will note here that the CD I received in the mail from them required I have Adobe Acrobat 6.0, which is ancient. Since I didn’t want to downgrade from Adobe Acrobat 9, I tossed the CD and downloaded the material directly from the website. It is unfortunate that they don’t take the time to “upgrade” this since the CD’s will be useless to most people with newer computers.
I like the way this material is written. It is engaging and brings to light things I don’t remember learning in school (I don’t really remember learning much of anything in school, but I digress). One excerpt I read that brought me to tears. As told in “The Price They Paid”:
“Five signers were captured by the British as traitors and tortured before they died. Twelve had their homes ransacked and burned. Two lost their sons in the Revolutionary Army. Another had two sons captured. Nine of the 56 fought and died from wounds and the hardships of the Revolutionary War. Carter Braxton of Virginia, a wealthy planter and trader, saw his ships swept from the seas by the British navy. He sold his home and properties to pay his debts and died in rags. Thomas McKean was so hounded by the British that he was forced to move his family almost constantly. He served in the Congress without pay, and his family was kept in hiding. His possessions were taken from him, and poverty was his reward. Vandals or soldiers or both looted the properties of Ellery, Clymer, Hall, Walton, Gwinnett, Heyward, Ruttledge, and Middleton.
At the Battle of Yorktown, Thomas Nelson, Jr. found that the British General Cornwallis had taken over the Nelson home for his headquarters. Nelson quietly urged General George Washington to open fire, which was done. The home was destroyed, and Nelson died bankrupt.
Francis Lewis had his home and properties destroyed. The enemy jailed his wife, and she died within a few months. John Hart was driven from his wife’s bedside as she was dying. Their 13 children fled for their lives. His field and his grist mill were laid waste. For more than a year he lived in forests and caves, returning home after the war to find his wife dead, his children vanished. A few weeks later he died from exhaustion and a broken heart. Norris and Livingston suffered similar fates. Such were the stories and sacrifices of the American Revolution. These were not wild-eyed, rabble-rousing ruffians. They were soft-spoken men of purpose and education. They had security, but they valued freedom more.” (Hildreth)
Alright, so that is fascinating information to know. Now let me explain the issue I have with this material and frankly, almost all history material. If I read the above excerpt as a student and did not truly understand the kind of relationship these men had with God, I would not read that and think, “Oh, wow, that is so great that they sacrificed all that.” I would probably think, “Better them than me.” To me, history is an empty shell without understanding the driving force behind the men and women who were responsible for bringing us our freedom. WHY did they risk everything? Why were they compelled to stand out from the rest? History is nothing more than the story of those who stood out and made a difference. If we truly want our children to embrace the same love for freedom that our founding fathers had, we have to give them a reason WHY. What was America built on that was so special? Was it just about free enterprise, wealth, and the ability to do whatever you want? If that were the case, why is America so unhappy today?
As a homeschool parent I understand their passion and willingness to sacrifice everything and am able to portray that to my “students.” It is unfortunate for those in public education that they don’t have the freedom to do this. For this reason I think this material would be an excellent source for public school students. If you are going to use it in your homeschool, be flexible to have these types of discussions while you are studying the material, but don’t leave out the WHY.
If you are non-religious but want to teach your child history that has been preserved and not changed to suit political interests, I definitely think you would enjoy this material.
 GyMathics is an interactive math and exercise workout video for kids, made by Exploracise. This DVD targets 2nd-5th grade levels, which is pretty cool because the kid sphere in our home is 1st through 5th grade. Ironically, my first grader loved this video more than everyone combined. There are simple math concepts practiced during this upbeat and fun workout. He could easily follow the math answers on the screen as they chanted and kept up very well with the exercises. He said he “loved everything about it!” and when asked what he did not like said, “I loved everything about it!” We have done other exercise and stretching videos but he was bored with them and was not motivated to follow along, so this was a pleasant surprise.
My 3rd grader totally loved the video as well and most enjoyed the stretching exercises. My 5th grader, who is dripping with tween coolness made fun of the DVD and said it was “babyish.” I decided to ignore her and left the room to see what they would do on their own. When I returned she was laughing and following along with the video, so there you have it.
Anyway, while doing the second half of the workout with the kiddos, I wondered how our farming ancestors would have responded to the idea of a workout video. They got all the workout they needed and more back in the day, including the children, laboring long, hard hours. Well, times have changed and none of us get the kind of total body workout anymore, not even our kids. I think incorporating this into our schedule would be fun and give them an energy outlet. God knows they need it. I know I do. I spent 20 minutes jump-roping with them yesterday and I can hardly move today. What is up with that?
So what can you expect from GyMathics? While getting a full workout you will practice place values, repeating patterns, perpendicular and parallel lines and a host of other concepts. The end of the video brings a lot of positive comments encouraging kids to work hard to accomplish their goals and so forth. You can purchaseGyMathics online at their website for $24.99
I was given this DVD by GyMathics in exchange for my honest opinion. I was not paid for this review.
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