The day I learned Cursive

Hi, my name is Heaven. I’m seven years old. I’m homeschooled in 3rd grade. I wanted to share with you how I learned to write cursive. It started when I was in kindergarten. I was not fully homeschool then. I had a name tag on my desk and my teacher wrote my name in cursive. I copied it and I went home. I had homework to do so I did my homework and wrote my name in cursive. My mom was next to me to help me do my work and to remind me to write my name. She was shock and happy when she saw me write cursive and said, “How?” My mom was proud of me. So she taught me how to write cursive the right way. I am getting better every day.

One day when I get older I can help kids learn how to write cursive. I’m very happy to share my story with you. See you next time!

Heaven Blog #1

By: Heaven B-Felder

My Cursive Copy Work.

Homemade Dinosaur fossils

By: Wislaine

So we are currently completing lessons about dinosaurs and the Bible. We are using schoolhouse teachers for our lessons. The children loves the videos provided for each lesson. As an adult I will say how informative each lessons are. A quiz is provided after every lesson. I provided a link below to check out schoolhouse teachers.

I wanted to do something fun with Heaven and Immense so I decided to have them make their own dinosaur fossils. It made sense since we are currently going over dinosaurs. The best part of this activity was watching them glow with excitement like always while shaping their Crayola air-dry clay. Not to much was needed for this activity.

What we used to make our fossils:

Rolling pin

Crayola air dry clay

Water ( to smooth out cracks)

Toy fossil dinosaurs

Paint if desired

Modge podge if desired

😊

schoolhouseteacher sign up:

https://schoolhouseteachers.ñ/dap/a/?a=77937


Homeschooling with Love

1 Corinthians 13:4-5: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”

Romans 13:8: “Owe no one anything, except to love each other, for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law.”

Genesis 1:27: “So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.

1 Corinthians 16:14: “Do everything in love.”

By: Wislaine

  An important lesson I teach my children is love. They know love has no face, price, color, size, and status. Love is for all color, size, disability, culture and for everyone under God.  Love always win in any given situation. There’s no hurt in love. God said we must Love. Our children are watching us. If we display hate for one another’s color, culture, size, status then our children will continue what we have started which will be an on going dilemma.

  Homeschooling is the time to allow our children to embrace everyone. It doesn’t matter what background they come from. As a Christian I don’t think that I am Superior to anyone because one thing I know for sure is that love can eliminate hate.  I’ve never seen hate create love. I’ve seen hate create hatred, jealousy, killing, and judging without even knowing someone. It’s my duty to train my children in the direction that I want them to go and that direction is towards love.

  Now, don’t get me wrong we can dislike someone’s character, attitude and action but let’s not hate them. let’s pray for them and hope they could become better. Help them if they need help because with love all is possible. We must show our children what acts of kindness are by displaying it with total strangers (poor, elder, emotional distress and more). Let us walk this world color blind and let love lead the way.

I love you guys! 🙂

Exploring the Depths of Learning: A Homeschool Field Trip to the Seattle Aquarium

Heaven F.

The visit to the Seattle Aquarium wasn’t just a day filled with awe and the joy of seeing sea life; it was a rich, educational experience that aligns perfectly with the flexibility and depth of homeschool learning. As a homeschooler, this trip served as an interactive extension of our biology curriculum, bringing to life the intricate details of marine ecosystems that we had pored over in textbooks.

In the tactile experience of feeling the different textures of sea anemones and the spiny touch of a sea urchin, there was a hands-on lesson in marine biology and anatomy. Observing the behaviors of sea otters offered insights into marine mammal physiology and the adaptations these incredible creatures have evolved to survive in their environment.

The aquarium’s display on the life cycle of the salmon became a live-action study guide. As we followed the path illustrating the salmon’s journey, it provided a profound lesson in determination and the importance of environmental conservation. The sea horse exhibit, with its reversal of parenting roles, became a talking point on the diversity of life and the wonders of evolution.

Beyond biology, the aquarium visit also enriched other educational avenues. The conservation messages around the aquarium sparked discussions on ecology and environmental science, turning our attention to human impact on oceans and the importance of sustainable living. The glittering scales of the shiner perch and the dancing tendrils of moon jellyfish became a natural art class, inspiring sketches and paintings that later adorned our homeschool classroom walls.

But perhaps the most profound impact was on our appreciation for the natural world. This was not just an educational visit; it was an experience that taught us the value of curiosity and lifelong learning. It reminded us that education isn’t confined within the walls of a classroom or the pages of a textbook. It’s all around us, waiting to be discovered in places as magnificent as the Seattle Aquarium.

So, in homeschooling, field trips like this are not mere excursions; they are pivotal, immersive learning experiences that resonate with our educational philosophy. They remind us that the world is our classroom, and its lessons are infinite.

The Impact of Drug Exposure on Children and the Benefits of Homeschooling

In recent years, the escalating drug crisis in the United States has become all too visible, with opioids, fentanyl, and heroin being the primary culprits. As alarming as the statistics are, the social and psychological effects on children exposed to this crisis on a daily basis are even more concerning. Many children witness people under the influence of these drugs on their way to school, in their neighborhoods, or even in their own homes. The normalization of such behaviors can have profound effects on a child’s development.

Normalizing Drug Use

Children, by nature, are observational learners. They learn from their surroundings, the people they interact with, and the events they witness. When a child repeatedly sees individuals using drugs or in a drug-induced state, a few consequences may ensue:

  1. Desensitization: The child might become desensitized to drug use, perceiving it as a regular aspect of daily life.
  2. Distorted Worldview: If drug usage is a frequent occurrence, children might perceive it as a ‘norm’ or an expected behavior, skewing their understanding of healthy adult behaviors.
  3. Increased Curiosity: As children mature, they might become curious about the substances they’ve frequently observed, leading to higher susceptibility to peer pressure or personal experimentation.

The Role of Schools

Schools are meant to be safe havens for learning and personal growth. However, when the surrounding area is plagued by drug abuse, the school environment may inadvertently reinforce the normalization of drugs. Children might hear peers discussing drug-related incidents or even witness drug transactions.

Why Homeschooling Can Be Beneficial

In areas where drug usage is rampant, homeschooling can offer a respite for children by:

  1. Reducing Direct Exposure: Homeschooling physically distances children from the everyday drug-related occurrences near schools.
  2. Personalized Learning Environment: Parents can create a stable and supportive environment for their children, focusing on positive reinforcement and healthy behaviors.
  3. Focused Discussions: Homeschooling parents can choose when and how to discuss drug issues, ensuring the child gets a balanced and age-appropriate understanding.

Affected States

Certain states have become notorious for their high rates of opioid and heroin abuse. States like Washington State, West Virginia, Ohio, New Hampshire, and Kentucky, for instance, have been hit hard by the opioid epidemic. Families in such states might especially consider homeschooling as a protective measure against daily drug exposure.

Conclusion

While the decision to homeschool is deeply personal and depends on various factors, it is an option worth considering for families in high drug prevalence areas. Protecting children from the normalization of drug use and providing them with a safe, controlled learning environment can be crucial in ensuring a healthy psychological and emotional development.

Exploring Educational Options: Homeschooling vs. Public School vs. FLVS Flex

When it comes to choosing the right educational path for your child, there are several options to consider. Among the alternatives, homeschooling, traditional public schools, and FLVS Flex (Florida Virtual School Flex) are three prominent choices. Each option comes with its own set of advantages and considerations. In this article, we will delve into the key aspects of homeschooling, traditional public schools, and FLVS Flex, enabling parents to make an informed decision based on their child’s needs and circumstances.

  1. Homeschooling: Tailored Education and Flexibility:

Homeschooling provides parents with the opportunity to tailor their child’s education to their unique needs and interests. It offers a flexible schedule that can accommodate the demands of a military lifestyle, allowing families to adapt to frequent relocations and deployments seamlessly. With homeschooling, parents have the freedom to personalize the curriculum, provide individualized attention, and foster a strong family bond.

  1. Traditional Public Schools: Social Interaction and Structured Learning:

Traditional public schools offer a structured environment that exposes children to diverse peer groups and fosters social interaction. They provide a comprehensive curriculum, access to extracurricular activities, and a network of teachers and support staff. Public schools also ensure that children are exposed to a wide range of experiences, which can contribute to their personal and social development.

  1. FLVS Flex: Online Learning and Individual Pace:

FLVS Flex is an online learning platform that combines the benefits of homeschooling and traditional schooling. It offers a flexible schedule and self-paced learning, allowing students to complete coursework according to their own speed. FLVS Flex provides a comprehensive curriculum taught by certified teachers, offering the convenience of online learning while still adhering to established academic standards.

Considerations for Choosing the Right Option:

  1. Academic Needs: Evaluate your child’s academic strengths, weaknesses, and learning style. Determine which educational option can best cater to their individual requirements.
  2. Lifestyle Factors: Take into account the demands of your military lifestyle, including frequent relocations, deployments, and potential disruptions. Consider how each option aligns with your family’s unique circumstances.
  3. Social Interaction: Consider the importance of social interaction for your child’s development. Assess how each option provides opportunities for peer interaction, community involvement, and extracurricular activities.
  4. Parental Involvement: Assess your availability and willingness to actively participate in your child’s education. Homeschooling requires a significant commitment from parents, while traditional schools and FLVS Flex provide varying levels of parental involvement.

Conclusion:

Choosing the right educational path for your child involves careful consideration of their academic needs, your family’s lifestyle, and the available resources. Homeschooling offers flexibility and personalized education, public schools provide structured learning and social interaction, and FLVS Flex combines online learning with certified instruction. By weighing the advantages and considerations of homeschooling, public schools, and FLVS Flex, parents can make an informed decision that aligns with their child’s educational goals and the unique demands of military life.

Free Resources you can use in your Homeschool

1st Grade:

2nd Grade:

3rd Grade:

4th Grade:

5th Grade:

6th Grade:

7th Grade:

8th Grade:

9th-12th Grade:

Please note that some resources may have additional premium features or paid options. It’s recommended to explore each resource’s website to understand their pricing structure and available free content.

Nurturing Independence: Integrating Life Skills into Homeschooling for Empowered Futures

In homeschooling, we have the incredible opportunity to not only provide our children with academic knowledge but also equip them with practical life skills that will serve them well into adulthood. By integrating life skills into our homeschool curriculum, we can empower our children to become independent, confident, and capable individuals. In this post, we’ll explore the importance of integrating life skills into homeschooling and highlight two inspiring examples: my daughter Heaven and son Immense.

The Value of Life Skills in Homeschooling: Life skills are essential abilities that enable individuals to navigate the challenges and responsibilities of everyday life. They encompass a wide range of practical and social skills that promote independence, problem-solving, and personal growth. By incorporating life skills into our homeschooling journey, we can foster well-rounded development and prepare our children for future success.

Example 1: Heaven’s Journey with Babysitting: Heaven, my daughter, discovered her passion for caring for children at an early age. With the flexibility of homeschooling, she had the opportunity to pursue her interest in babysitting. At the age of 11, she obtained her Red Cross babysitting certification, which not only provided her with the necessary knowledge and skills but also boosted her confidence. Since then, Heaven has been actively babysitting for local families, honing her caregiving abilities, and building valuable relationships within our community. Through this experience, she has learned responsibility, communication, problem-solving, and empathy – all vital life skills that will benefit her throughout her life.

Example 2: Immense’s Journey as a Dog Walker: My son, Immense, has always had a deep love for animals. Recognizing his passion, we encouraged him to explore opportunities to turn his interest into a valuable life skill. At the age of 10, Immense began dog walking for neighbors and friends. This experience has taught him responsibility, time management, and the importance of accountability. Through his interactions with dogs and their owners, he has developed patience, empathy, and effective communication skills. Immense’s dog walking venture has not only provided him with a practical skill but has also instilled in him a strong work ethic and a sense of pride in contributing to the community.

Ideas for Integrating Life Skills into Homeschooling:

  1. Cooking and Nutrition: Teach children essential cooking skills, meal planning, and the importance of a balanced diet.
  2. Financial Literacy: Introduce basic money management concepts, budgeting, saving, and responsible spending.
  3. Home Maintenance: Involve children in household chores, such as cleaning, laundry, and basic home repairs.
  4. Communication Skills: Encourage children to practice effective communication, active listening, and conflict resolution.
  5. Time Management: Teach children the value of time and how to prioritize tasks, set goals, and manage their schedules.
  6. First Aid and Emergency Preparedness: Educate children on basic first aid, emergency procedures, and the importance of safety.
  7. Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Engage children in activities that require problem-solving, decision-making, and creative thinking.

Embracing Individuality: How Homeschooling Celebrates Every Child’s Uniqueness

Homeschooling offers a unique opportunity to tailor education to accommodate disabilities and celebrate individuality. Here are a few ways homeschooling can be beneficial in this regard:

  1. Personalized Learning: Homeschooling allows for individualized instruction, which can be especially beneficial for students with disabilities. Parents can adapt teaching methods, curriculum, and pacing to suit their child’s specific needs, learning style, and strengths. This flexibility allows for a more personalized and effective learning experience.
  2. Accommodations and Modifications: Homeschooling allows parents to easily provide accommodations and modifications to support students with disabilities. Whether it’s adapting materials, using assistive technology, providing additional resources, or adjusting the learning environment, homeschooling offers the freedom to customize education to optimize learning for each child.
  3. Flexible Schedule: Homeschooling provides the flexibility to create a schedule that works best for the student. This is particularly valuable for individuals with disabilities who may require additional breaks, therapy sessions, or specialized instruction. Parents can adjust the schedule to ensure optimal learning conditions and address any specific needs.
  4. Individualized Support: Homeschooling allows for one-on-one attention, giving parents the ability to provide targeted support and intervention for their child’s unique needs. They can spend more time focusing on areas that require extra attention, providing ample opportunities for mastery and skill development.
  5. Self-Paced Learning: Homeschooling allows students to learn at their own pace. This is especially important for individuals with disabilities who may need additional time to grasp concepts or require repetitive practice. Homeschooling provides the flexibility to adapt the curriculum and ensure that the student progresses at a comfortable pace.
  6. Integrated Life Skills: Homeschooling offers the opportunity to integrate life skills into daily learning. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with disabilities, as it allows for practical, hands-on learning experiences tailored to their needs. Homeschooling can focus on developing independent living skills, social skills, and other essential life skills alongside academic learning.

It’s important to note that homeschooling a child with disabilities may require additional research, resources, and support networks. Parents can explore specialized curriculum options, connect with support groups or online communities, and seek guidance from professionals who specialize in working with students with disabilities.

Overall, homeschooling provides the flexibility and freedom to tailor education to accommodate disabilities and celebrate individuality. It allows for personalized learning, targeted support, and an environment that fosters the unique strengths and needs of each student.

Florida Interscholastic Sports for Homeschool

In Florida, homeschoolers have the opportunity to participate in interscholastic sports programs offered by local public and private schools through the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA). The FHSAA has established guidelines and eligibility requirements for homeschoolers to join school-based sports teams. Here’s an overview of the process:

  1. Eligibility: Homeschoolers must meet specific eligibility criteria to participate in interscholastic sports. Requirements may include being registered as a homeschool student, meeting academic standards, and complying with FHSAA guidelines. Eligibility criteria can vary by sport and school district, so it’s important to contact the school or district athletic department for detailed information.
  2. Registration and Notification: Homeschoolers need to register with the local public or private school where they wish to participate in sports. Parents or guardians typically need to provide documentation to verify homeschooling status, such as a letter of intent to homeschool or a notice of establishment of a homeschool program. The specific registration process and required documents may vary by school or district.
  3. Tryouts and Team Placement: Once registered, homeschoolers may participate in tryouts and evaluations to determine team placement. The selection process is typically the same as for traditionally schooled students. The school or district athletic department can provide information about tryout schedules and requirements.
  4. Compliance with School Policies: Homeschoolers who participate in interscholastic sports are expected to comply with the school’s policies and procedures, including attendance, behavior, and academic standards. It’s essential to understand and adhere to the school’s expectations to maintain eligibility and a positive sports experience.

It’s important to note that while homeschoolers can participate in interscholastic sports programs, availability and specific policies may vary by school district and individual schools. It’s recommended to contact the athletic departments of local schools or the FHSAA for detailed information on eligibility, registration procedures, and any additional requirements.

Additionally, homeschoolers in Florida can also explore other sports opportunities through local community sports programs, homeschool sports associations, and private sports clubs that offer sports training and competitive opportunities for homeschool athletes.

Homeschooling and Playing Sports

Photo by Mike on Pexels.com

Playing sports as a homeschooler can be a rewarding and enriching experience. Homeschoolers have various options for participating in sports, including:

  1. Local Community Sports Programs: Many communities offer sports programs for homeschoolers, allowing them to join local teams or leagues. These programs may be organized by community centers, recreational departments, or private organizations. Homeschoolers can participate in team sports like soccer, basketball, baseball, or join individual sports such as swimming, tennis, or martial arts.
  2. Homeschool Sports Associations: Some states have homeschool sports associations or leagues specifically designed for homeschool athletes. These associations organize sports events, competitions, and teams exclusively for homeschoolers. They offer opportunities for homeschoolers to compete against other homeschool athletes in various sports.
  3. Private Sports Clubs and Facilities: Private sports clubs and facilities often provide training and competitive opportunities for athletes of all ages, including homeschoolers. These clubs may offer coaching, access to facilities, and participation in tournaments or leagues. Homeschoolers can join these clubs to pursue their athletic interests and receive professional training.
  4. Interscholastic Sports Programs: In some states, homeschoolers may have the opportunity to participate in interscholastic sports programs offered by local public or private schools. These programs allow homeschoolers to compete alongside traditionally schooled students in school-based sports teams. Requirements for participation vary by state and school district.

It’s important to research and understand the regulations and eligibility requirements for homeschoolers participating in sports within your specific state or community. Each state and school district may have different rules regarding eligibility, paperwork, and participation in interscholastic sports programs.

Additionally, reaching out to local homeschooling support groups, sports organizations, or community centers can provide valuable information and connections to available sports opportunities for homeschoolers in your area.

Military Families and Florida Homeschools

Florida is often considered homeschool-friendly for military families due to several factors:

  1. Minimal Regulations: Florida has relatively minimal regulations for homeschooling compared to some other states. Homeschooling parents in Florida are not required to submit formal notification or obtain approval from the state. There are no mandated standardized testing or evaluation requirements for homeschoolers.
  2. Educational Options: Florida offers a range of educational options that can benefit military families who homeschool. The state has virtual and online learning programs, such as the Florida Virtual School, which provide flexibility and accessibility for students regardless of their location or schedule. These options can be particularly advantageous for military families who frequently move or experience unpredictable deployments.
  3. Support Networks: Florida has a vibrant homeschooling community and numerous support networks, including co-ops, support groups, and homeschooling associations. These networks can provide valuable resources, guidance, and socialization opportunities for both parents and students. Military families can connect with these support networks to receive support and advice specific to their circumstances.
  4. Portable Education: Florida’s homeschooling laws allow for flexibility in curriculum choices, enabling military families to tailor their children’s education to their unique needs and interests. This flexibility can be especially beneficial for military families, as it allows for a seamless transition when relocating to different states or even overseas.
  5. Military Community: Florida is home to several military installations, including Navy bases, Air Force bases, and Coast Guard stations. The presence of a significant military community can provide additional support and resources for homeschooling families, as they can connect with other military families who homeschool and share experiences and resources.

It’s important for military families considering homeschooling in Florida, or any other state, to review and comply with the current homeschooling laws and regulations. Additionally, connecting with local homeschooling organizations and military support networks can provide valuable guidance and assistance throughout the homeschooling journey.

Best Homeschool State for Military Families

When it comes to homeschooling for military families, several states offer favorable conditions and resources to accommodate the unique needs and circumstances of military life. Here are a few states often considered beneficial for homeschooling military families:

  1. Virginia: Virginia is home to a large military population, with numerous military installations. The state has homeschooling-friendly laws and provides resources such as online learning platforms, support groups, and co-ops specifically tailored for military families.
  2. Texas: Texas has a sizable military presence and offers flexible homeschooling laws. The state provides various resources and support networks for homeschooling families, including those affiliated with the military.
  3. North Carolina: North Carolina has a strong homeschooling community and is known for its support of military families. The state has favorable homeschooling regulations and offers resources such as online curriculum options, support groups, and activities specifically for military homeschoolers.
  4. Hawaii: Although homeschooling regulations in Hawaii are more stringent compared to some other states, the state is often considered favorable for military families due to its unique educational opportunities and support networks. Hawaii has a significant military presence, and military homeschooling families can take advantage of resources provided by the military community.
  5. Florida: Florida is known for its homeschool-friendly environment and has a substantial military presence. The state offers minimal regulations for homeschooling and provides various educational options and resources for military homeschooling families.

It’s important for military families considering homeschooling to research and comply with the homeschooling laws and regulations of both their current state of residence and any future duty stations. Additionally, connecting with local homeschooling organizations, support groups, and military support networks can provide valuable guidance and resources for homeschooling success.