Friday, September 14, 2012

another video re: education



Here's another video that is fascinating, which details how our current education system began, and why its current problems are the logical outcome of its original purpose.

Video--Changing Education Paradigms



Double-click to see full screen.

Some really good thoughts here--although it seems cut off. I want to hear more!

Prayer for the Beginning of the Day

Every morning we are now having table time, at breakfast, and it is one of our favorite times of the school day.

One of the things in our table time is prayer--trying to get our hearts and minds centered on what really matters in this world before we even start our school day.  My dear friend Terry said she used to do the same with her daughter when they were homeschooling, and gave me this prayer they used.  I like it so much, and thought some of you might like to hear it too:

Prayer for the Beginning of the Day
O Lord, grant me to greet the coming day in peace, help me in all things to rely upon your holy will. In every hour of the day reveal your will to me. Bless my dealings with all who surround me. Teach me to treat all that comes to throughout the day with peace of soul and with firm conviction that your will governs all. In all my deeds and words, guide my thoughts and feelings. In unforeseen events, let me not forget that all are sent by you. Teach me to act firmly and wisely, without embittering and embarrassing others. Give me strength to bear the fatigue of the coming day with all that it shall bring. Direct my will, teach me to pray. And you, yourself, pray in me. Amen.

Thursday, September 13, 2012

Musical Mondays

In the past my kids and I have participated in the Musical Mondays program--10 weeks (well, 9 starting next week) of class 3-5 in which kids learn a musical and perform it at the end.  This semester the musical is Peter Pan, and they have added a dance element in addition to the play and singing.  I know some of you families have tried the program, but anyone who hasn't and wants to know more can leave a comment here. 

I know there are several theatre groups out there for homeschool kids now.  Here is why I like this one:

--very child friendly
--all kids are on the stage all the time, so even though some kids will have more lines, all the kids equally share the stage.
--all kids sing all the songs, so again even the kids in the background feel like they are fully involved and equally "stars."
--the kids choose what kind of role they want, the casting is based upon what the kids want, and the script is re-written as necessary so that every kid who wants to speak gets to.
--it is very reasonably priced, and you can pay for it with Ocean Grove funds.
--this is not a "theatre" program, so it is not at all stressful for the kids or parents--it's just pure enjoyment.  There is no pressure to perform a certain way.  Kids are allowed to be kids and not have to be evaluated for their skills.
--It is a very reasonable schedule, for us busy homeschool families.  Some of the other more serious theatre programs have appropriately intentive rehersal schedules; this program is just Mondays 3-5 until the performance days, at which time they have rehersal before the performances. There is one Monday performance and one weekend performance, to accommodate working parents.

Now I have heard very good things about some of the other local children's theater programs, esp. CYT.  I just wanted to let you all know about this one in case you are looking for something a little simpler, less intimidating (no auditions), less formal.  This is about the same caliber as a church Christmas play--and for me that is part of its charm. : )

And I knew some of you might want to know if your kids would have friends there--so for at least this semester, we will be there! 

P.S. We are building upon the activity by reading the original Peter Pan, and we might try to "LitWit" it a little. ; )  Becky, that's another book you and Jenny need to add some year!

Tuesday, September 11, 2012

how one mom got into homeschooling

This is a blog I read regularly--LOVE this family and their hearts.  So this post today caught my attention, and had me laughing--it is SO God.  : )

I have things upcoming to share with you all here, as soon as I find the time!  But in the meantime, please remember you are welcome to post whatever homeschool stuff you think is appropriate for everyone, and I hope the start of your school year has been fairly smooth!

lisa