Texas HOME Educators - January Newsletter

 

Calendar of Events

January 04 Co-op Classes

January 11 Ballet Classes

January 18 Family Field Trip

January 25 Ballet Classes

 

Co-op Classes

09:00 Musical Theater

11:00 Service Scouts – this month, we are collecting fleece blankets, cat beds, toys without studding, leashes without hooks, dog food, and cat food to take to the animal shelter. Each member will need to bring one of these items to earn their patch; but feel free to bring more than one item to donate.

 

Ballet Classes

09:00 Ballet I (ages 3-6)

10:00 Ballet II (ages 7-10)

11:00 Ballet III (ages 11+)

12:00 Beginner Pointe (ages 11+)

 

Classes are held at Studio D in Lumberton, Texas. Girls attire is black leotard, pink tights, pink ballet shoes, and hair in bun. Please do not wear ballet shoes outdoors. Ballet tuition is $25 per month. Pointe tuition is $25 per month. If you have any questions, please contact Susan Reed at 409-504-8135.

 

Family Field Trip

Register by January 11 for our KSBJ Tour on January 18. Our tour begins at 2:15 p.m. at KSBJ, 1722 Treble Drive, Humble, TX 77338. There is no cost for this field trip; but we are limited to 20 people. Please text Susan Reed at 409-504-8135 to reserve your spot for the KSBJ Tour.

The Old Schoolhouse Magazine - GIVEAWAY

I have a special gift for ONE of my readers this Christmas, a copy of the Winter 2018/2019 edition of The Old Schoolhouse Magazine – the trade magazine for the homeschool community! Inside the cover of every issue of The Old Schoolhouse Magazine, you will find:

·         Practical suggestions that address your homeschooling challenges;

·         Ideas for teaching academic subjects across all ages;

·         Curriculum resources and current developments;

·         Technology trends you need to know about;

·         Information to help you balance academics with family life;

·         Expert advice on teaching the special needs learner;

·         And inspiring personal stories from real homeschooling parents.

So how can YOU receive this ONE copy of the Winter 2018/2019 edition of The Old Schoolhouse Magazine? Your name will automatically be in the drawing if you follow my blog through email and if you follow my Facebook group page; but if you would like an extra entry, share this post of your personal Facebook page and tag me under your post; and I will announce the recipient for this FREE gift on Christmas Day!

Happy Homeschooling! 



Teaching Our Children to be Cheerful Receivers

Christmas will soon be here and as much as our family enjoys the blessings of giving, it is not always easy being a cheerful receiver. Sometimes we receive gifts that we do not like or gifts that we will never use; but this should not stop us from being a cheerful receiver. If your children need help learning to be a cheerful receiver, I would like to encourage you to gather up some unusual Christmas gifts like an ugly sweater, a used book, a bar of soap, etc. - just be sure each child has a gift to unwrap. Use these gifts to teach invaluable lessons on being a cheerful receiver.

Children may not always understand why a gift was given, so we need to encourage them to be thankful and teach them how to be a cheerful receiver. What good is an ugly sweater? Well, this will really keep one warm on a chilly winter night. What good is a used book? Maybe the gift was given from someone who read it cover to cover and wished to pass on their love for reading with their favorite, autographed book - never judge a book by its cover - or maybe its a book out of print with special meaning. What good is a bar of soap? Perhaps its a homemade bar of soap, talk about the labor of love put in to making that bar of soap.

It may not always be easy to be a cheerful receiver; but there is always something positive we can say about the gifts we receive. As parents, we need to be a cheerful receiver too. When it comes to teaching our children, much more is caught than taught. We cannot expect our children to rise above our example.

A-Z Gift Guide of Games

Are you looking for some Christmas gift ideas for the kids? Something fun? Something educational? Here is an A-Z gift guide of games for some family fun!

A – Apples to Apples

B – Battleship

C – Chess

D – Dutch Blitz

E – Eye Found It

F – Family Charades

G – Guess Who

H – Hi Ho Chery-O

I – I Spy Dig In

J – Jenga

K – Kingdomino

L – Locale

M – Mancala

N – Head Full of Numbers

O – Operation

P – Phase 10

Q – Q-bitz

R – Race Across the USA

S – Scattergories

T – Triominos

U – Uno

V – Video Games

W – Wits & Wagers

X – Explore the World

Y – Yahtzee

Z – Zoo opoly

Happy Homeschooling!

Beloved: 365 Devotions for Young Women - Crew Review

Beloved: 365 Devotions for Young Women from Zondervan is a hardback devotional book written for girls ages thirteen through eighteen; but the topics included apply to all women. The book is beautifully designed with foiled cover, two-color interior pages, and a ribbon book mark.  As the title implies, there are 365 devotions labeled by day and not by date. Each day features an easy-to-read, relevant devotion paired with a Scripture passage about a biblical woman you can look to for wisdom and inspiration. Each devotion is just a single page, and each page includes four lines at the bottom as journaling space to help you reflect on the day’s message. Lindsay A. Franklin uses the inspiring stories of ancient women in the Bible – such as Eve, Esther, Ruth, Mary, and many more – with an occasional humorous text to keep young women’s attention and draws practical truths from God’s Word for everyday life. The devotions speak about the things that matter most in a young woman’s life and encourages them to see truth through God’s Word because each young woman is beautiful, valued, adored, cherished, and beloved.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version. I would hope to see a King James Version in the future; but our family simply read the Bible passage from the devotional book and then read the Bible passage from the King James Version before we read the devotion for the day. I am using this devotional book with my three daughters as part of our daily devotions because each devotion speaks to the pressures and changes young women are facing right now, giving them real-world applications to keep God in the forefront of their life. The Bible has so much to say about the unique challenges – the heartaches and high points – of being a female. There are dozens of women in the Bible, some named but many unnamed. Through their stories, we discover role models and cautionary tales, tragedies and triumphs; and all these stories of ancient women are surprisingly relevant to our lives today.

Lindsay A. Franklin not only encourages the young women, but also the aged women as she reminds us that we don’t grow in godliness and stretch our faithfulness only for our own wellbeing. We are also looking to pass along a legacy of faith to others. Each of us will leave something behind – a legacy of the life we lived and what mattered to us most. Another aspect I like about this devotional book is that it inspires you to dig deeper into God’s Word. After we read each devotion, we discuss the truth being presented and we use our King James Version study Bible for cross references and commentary notes.

Beloved: 365 Devotions for Young Women would be a great gift idea for any young woman on your gift-giving list. I wholeheartedly recommend this book and encourage you to visit the Crew Blog to read what the Homeschool Review Crew has to say about Beloved: 365 Devotions for Young Women.

 

My Illinois

Experience the history of Illinois in a whole new way with a unique, reader friendly, newspaper format. My Illinois consists of 32 issues filled with colorful maps, photos and illustrations that draw the reader into the fascinating history of Illinois. This history of Illinois is told as if it is current news, where people and places of the past come to life as if they were with us today.

As a direct teaching aid, the teacher’s manual provides the instructor with everything needed to make teaching Illinois a success. The text of each issue is accompanied by lesson goals, detailed notes and background information which provides the essential facts for each lesson. Interactive questions encourage the student to ask questions, and strive to create teachable moments between the student and instructor. The teacher’s manual also includes the answer guide to the mid-term and final tests.

My Illinois was written for the fourth-grade classroom; but is well suited for higher grade levels. I used this curriculum with my sixth grader; and I would recommend it for fourth through eighth graders. After growing up in Illinois, I was happy to review this product and teach my daughter about the land of Lincoln. I especially enjoyed teaching Issue 31 because Illinois farms feed America. I have seen the importance of farming and it takes a lot of hard work to grow the crops and raise the animals. My daughter has learned so much about the history of Illinois through this curriculum. My Illinois is a great way to teach state history! Instead of overwhelming the student with another textbook, each issue consists of a 4-page handout covering a specific time period or topic. Make My Illinois a part of your student’s curriculum and prepare to embark on a journey neither of you will ever forget.

-Product review by Susan Reed, The Old Schoolhouse Magazine, LLC, November, 2017

Texas HOME Educators - December Newsletter

Calendar of Events

December 07 BCB Nutcracker School Performance

December 14 Ballet Classes

December 21 Family Field Trip

December 28 Ballet Classes

 

Co-op Classes

Please note, there are NO co-op classes this month due to the BCB Nutcracker School Performance.

 

BCB Nutcracker School Performance

The following families have registered to see the BCB Nutcracker School Performance on December 7 at 9:30 a.m. at the Julie Rogers Theater in Beaumont, Texas – 4 Beck, 4 Jones, 2 Fregia, 3 Reeves, 2 Bowen, 4 Aragon, and 3 Reed. The ballet last approximately 1 hour. The performance begins with Prologue, the Christmas party scene, the battle scene, and the program ends with the Snow Flakes; due to the length of The Nutcracker, Act II will not be performed at the school performances. The full-length ballet will be performed at the public performances on December 8 & 9.

 

Ballet Classes

09:00 Ballet I (ages 3-6)

10:00 Ballet II (ages 7-10)

11:00 Ballet III (ages 11+)

12:00 Beginner Pointe (ages 11+)

 

Classes are held at Studio D in Lumberton, Texas. Girls attire is black leotard, pink tights, pink ballet shoes, and hair in bun. Please do not wear ballet shoes outdoors. Ballet tuition is $25 per month. Pointe tuition is $25 per month. If you have any questions, please contact Susan Reed at 409-504-8135.

 

Family Field Trip

Register by December 16 for our family field trip to see the Chambers House Museum. Our tour begins at 10:00 a.m. at the Chambers House Museum, 2240 Calder Avenue, Beaumont, TX 77701. Cost is $6 per person. Register through the link below to join us at the Chambers House Museum!

 

https://www.freewebstore.org/texas-home-educators/Chambers_House_Museum/p4485292_19364871.aspx

 

 

Family Fitness

Many would agree and say they believe fitness is good for their health and well-being; but only about half of us exercise three or more days a week. Fitness increases lung capacity, muscle tone, and blood flow. It stimulates your brain, sharpens listening skills, and improves problem-solving skills. Fitness delays age-associated memory loss. It reduces your risk of diabetes and high cholesterol. Fitness strengthens your immune system. It lowers your risk of heart disease, cancer, and osteoporosis. Fitness increases self-esteem and self-image. It lowers levels of stress and anxiety. Fitness is good for us.

As a homeschool mom, I know how busy life can be and how time just slips away from us sometimes; but we must make it a priority to be healthy and fit. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 reads “What? Know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.” We must schedule family fitness, so we can bring glory to God.

Instead of dreading a workout routine, try adding some active games and aerobic activities to your day. Need some ideas? Here is our family fitness list –

·         Bowling

·         Dancing

·         Golf

·         Gym

·         Horseback Riding

·         Ice Skating

·         Jumping Rope

·         Roller Skating

·         Running

·         Soccer

·         Swimming

·         Table Tennis

·         Tag

·         Tennis

·         Walking

I would like to encourage you, sit down with your family, and make a list of active games you enjoy. Then plan out your family fitness schedule and just do it! Active games and aerobic exercise help your heart, lungs, and body stay healthy and fit.

Happy Homeschooling!

Give Thanks

1 Thessalonians 5:18 reads “In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” Many countries set aside a special day each year for thanksgiving; but for the Christian every day should be a day for thanksgiving.

Thank God for Salvation. God has given us the greatest gift of all – His Son – who died on the cross and rose again so that we can know Him personally and spend eternity with Him in heaven. The Bible tells us that we are separated from God because we have sinned. Romans 3:23 reads “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” He loves us so much that He sent His only Son into the world to die for our sins. John 3:16 reads “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” How long has it been since you thanked God for your salvation?

Thank God for People. It is so easy to take people for granted, or even complain and become angry because they do not meet our every wish. But we should give thanks for those around us – our spouse, our children, our relatives, our friends and others who help us along the way. Paul began his first letter to the church in Corinth by saying “I thank my God always on your behalf” (1 Corinthians 1:4). Do you let others know that you appreciate them and are thankful for them?

Thank God for Blessings. We never seem to be satisfied with what we have – rich or poor, healthy or sick. But what a difference it makes when we realize that every thing we have has been given to us by God. King David prays in 1 Chronicles 29:12-14 “Both riches and honour come of thee, and thou reignest over all; and in thine hand is power and might; and in thine hand is to make great, and to give strength unto all. Now therefore, our God, we thank thee, and praise thy glorious name. But who am I, and what is my people, that we should be able to offer so willingly after this sort? for all things come of thee, and of thine own have we given thee.” Are you constantly preoccupied with what you do not have? Or have you learned to thank God for what you do have?

Thank God for Trials. In the midst of our trials, we can thank God because we know that He has promised to be with us and that He will strengthen us. 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 reads “ And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.” I don’t know what trials you are facing right now, but God does, and He loves you and will give you His strength in the midst of trials.

In closing, let us remember to give thanks always. Ephesians 5:20 reads “Giving thanks always for all things unto the God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

Writing to a Pen Pal

My daughter recently had an assignment in English 7 to imagine she had been assigned a pen pal in another state and that this person knew nothing about her. She had to write a letter introducing herself. Well, she completed the assignment; but I thought, why not reach out into the homeschool community and see who would be willing to write her as a pen pal?

Writing to a pen pal helps students develop essential skills like reading and writing. Even the apostles knew that letters from a friend could be encouraging and edifying. In fact, much of the New testament is composed of letters the apostles wrote to friends or to churches. For the Christian, exchanging letters with a pen pal can be a similarly rich experience. It allows them to learn from someone living in a different area of the world. Most importantly, however, it allows them to edify and encourage one another.

If you have a student who would be willing to write to a pen pal, your student may send a letter to Pen Pals, 6235 Hwy 69 South, Kountze, TX 77625; and my 12-year-old daughter will gladly respond through snail mail.

Parenting with Purpose

There is no greater place of ministry, position, or power than that of being a parent. Using biblical principles, we will see that we are on an assignment from God to be parenting with purpose.

#1 Purpose to Teach God’s Word

Deuteronomy 6:5-9 reads “And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes. And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates.”

2 Timothy 3:15-17 reads “And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.”

1 Peter 3:15 reads “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear.”

When I discovered that I was on an assignment from God to teach my daughters God’s Word, I made the decision to be prepared to teach my daughters about God through the course of our everyday life. No matter the age of your children, it’s never too late to start – and something is better than nothing. Read the Bible together and memorize Scripture.

Psalm 119:11 reads “Thy word have I hid in my heart, that I might not sin against thee.”

Colossians 3:16 reads “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”

The life of Corrie Ten Boom provides an example of a parent who taught God’s Word. Early in life, Corrie’s father instilled in his family the importance of memorizing scripture, and he saw that they learned Bible passages after their mother died. This memorization served his children well as they suffered and, with the exception of Corrie, eventually died for their faith. God’s Word indeed armed Corrie Ten Boom and helped her endure the pain and torment of the concentration camp. God also used His Word, hidden in her heart, as a mighty instrument of evangelism right there in the camp as Corrie offered hope and comfort to other suffering prisoners. As important as memorizing Scripture is, we cannot over look the value of daily Bible reading. In addition to assisting his children in memorizing God’s Word, Corrie’s father read one chapter of the Old Testament to his family every morning after breakfast and one chapter of the New testament every evening after dinner.

We must purpose to teach God’s Word.

#2 Purpose to Teach Godly Character

Psalm 15 describes godliness in terms of character - “LORD, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbor, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbor. In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoureth them that fear the LORD. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not. He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these things shall not be moved.”

2 Peter 1:5-7 reads “And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity.”

Titus 2:1-5 reads “But speak thou things which become sound doctrine: That the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience. The aged women likewise, that they be in behavior as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things; That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.”

When I discovered that I was on an assignment from God to teach my daughters godly character, I made the decision to model godly character. We must realize that godly character is taught in two ways. The first is what we teach by our words. But we also teach by our walk – the way we live our life. It has been said that when it comes to children, much more is caught than taught. We cannot expect our children to rise above our example.

We must purpose to teach godly character.

#3 Purpose to Teach Bible-Based Academics

Proverbs 22:6 admonishes us, “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.” The Scriptures do not leave us in doubt as to what “way” is meant. Christian parents are directly responsible to God for raising up children who know Him, love Him, and follow Him in every area of life. We cannot separate education and discipleship.

Remember Deuteronomy 6:5-9 - “And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes. And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates.”

Proverbs 4:1-13 shows what instruction Solomon had of parents – “Hear, ye children, the instruction of a father, and attend to know understanding. For I give you good doctrine, forsake ye not my law. For I was my father’s son, tender and only beloved in the sight of my mother. He taught me also, and said unto me, Let thine heart retain my words: keep my commandments and live. Get wisdom, get understanding: forget it not; neither decline from the words of my mouth. Forsake her not, and she shall preserve thee: love her, and she shall keep thee. Wisdom is the principal thing therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding. Exalt her, and she shall promote thee: she shall bring thee to honour, when thou dost embrace her. She shall give thine hand an ornament of grace: a crown of glory shall she deliver thee. Hear, O my son, and receive my sayings; and the years of thy life shall be many. I have taught thee in the way of wisdom; I have led thee in right paths. When thou goest, thy steps shall not be straitened; and when thou runnest, thou shalt not stumble. Take fast hold of instruction; let her not go: keep her, for she is thy life.”

2 Corinthians 10:5 reads “Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.”

When I discovered that I was on an assignment from God to teach my daughters Bible-based academics, I made the decision to purchase Christian curriculum. We need to remember, math is a thought, science is a thought, grammar is a thought, every subject we teach should be brought into captivity to the obedience of Christ.

We must purpose to teach Bible-based academics.

Truly, there is no greater place of ministry, position, or power than that of being a parent; and we are on an assignment from God to be parenting with purpose.

#1 Purpose to Teach God’s Word

#2 Purpose to Teach Godly Character

#3 Purpose to Teach Bible-Based Academics

Texas HOME Educators - November Newsletter

Calendar of Events

November 02 Co-op Classes & Graduation Meeting & Bowling League

November 06 Deadline to Register for The Nutcracker School Performance

November 09 Ballet Classes & Bowling League

November 16 Pottery Class & Bowling League

November 30 Ballet Classes & Pottery Class

 

Co-op Classes

09:00 Musical Theater

11:00 Service Scouts

 

Service Scouts will collect coats/sweaters for the women/children shelter in Beaumont. Members will discuss and plan in detail float decorations for the Lighted Christmas Parade on December 1, 2018.

 

Graduation Meeting

Our next planning meeting is scheduled for November 2 at 12:30 p.m. in the Food Court at Parkdale Mall in Beaumont, Texas.

 

Bowling League

The bowling league is a seven-week season held at Crossroads Bowling Center in Beaumont, Texas. Please arrive by 1:45 p.m. to be ready to bowl when the lanes come on at 2:00 p.m. Bumper Buddies pay $5 to bowl 2 games. League Members pay $8 to bowl 3 games. Please bring cash weekly because all money is collected through team envelopes.

 

Ballet Classes

09:00 Ballet I (ages 3-6)

10:00 Ballet II (ages 7-10)

11:00 Ballet III (ages 11+)

12:00 Beginner Pointe (ages 11+)

 

Classes are held at Studio D in Lumberton, Texas. Girls attire is black leotard, pink tights, pink ballet shoes, and hair in bun. Please do not wear ballet shoes outdoors. Ballet tuition is $25 per month. Pointe tuition is $25 per month. If you have any questions, please contact Susan Reed at 409-504-8135.

 

The Nutcracker School Performance

Register by November 6 to attend the Beaumont Civic Ballet Nutcracker School Performance on December 7, 2018 at Julie Rogers Theater in Beaumont, Texas. The ballet last approximately 1 hour. The performance begins with Prologue, the Christmas party scene, the battle scene, and the program ends with the Snow Flakes; due to the length of The Nutcracker, Act II will not be performed at the school performances. The full-length ballet will be performed at the public performances on December 8 & 9.

 

Pottery Class

Register by November 9 for the pottery class at the SETX Art Museum in Beaumont, Texas. Students will mold clay on November 16 at 10:00 a.m. and then return to glaze clay on November 30 at 2:00 p.m. There is no cost for this pottery class; but we are limited to 20 students. Please text Susan Reed at 409-504-8135 to reserve your student a spot in this class.

National Museum of Funeral History

Experience a unique museum unlike any other, featuring America’s largest collection of authentic, historical funeral service items. It’s the place to visit when you are dying to do something different!

 

Presidential Funerals – Take in the extensive display of actual items from the state funerals and burials of America’s great presidents. This section of the museum was an educational and historical experience; like the tribute to Abraham Lincoln’s passing. “The Lincoln Train is Coming!” That was the phrase repeated in 1865 all along a 1,666 mile long journey from Washington D.C. to Springfield, Illinois – one of the epic railroad journeys in history.

 

Historical Hearses – Dozens of dazzling hearses trace the history of funerary customs, from the elegant horse-drawn funeral carriages of the 19^th century to the actual hearses used for two U.S. Presidents.

 

Coffins and Caskets – Discover the difference between a coffin and a casket, learn about early 1900s craftsmanship, and see unusual examples from the past.

 

History of Embalming – From the Ancient Egyptians to modern techniques, learn about the origins and methods of embalming, as well as its utter necessity during Civil War.

 

Thanks for the Memories – See artifacts, authentic printed memorial folders and memorabilia from recent celebrity funerals and those from decades past.

 

Pause to remember American heroes at special displays honoring the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and 9/11.

The National Museum of Funeral History is located at 415 Barren Springs Drive, Houston, TX 77090. Visit www.nmfh.org for more information.

CashCrunch Careers - Crew Review

CashCrunch Games offers a career survey known as CashCrunch Careers to identify best fit careers based on the student’s personality traits.  The career survey takes about 10-15 minutes to complete. For each of the seventy-five word-pairs, students choose the word that best describes how they really are, not how they want to be, or how others think they are. And when the student does not understand a word, they can hold the mouse over that word for its definition. As I observed my daughter taking the career survey, I noted the following. In some word-pairs, both answers applied but she could only select one answer, for instance, flexible or polite, as well as, goal oriented or thorough. Then some word-pairs were total opposites, like, cheerful or tolerant. And the comical word-pair, agreeable or organized, my daughter replied “Oh, I am NOT organized!” When she finished working through the seventy-five word-pairs, she received a CashCrunch Career Report, and immediate personalized printout of suitable careers.

The CashCrunch Career Report noted career work styles, motivators, de-motivators, career attributes, and matching jobs. My daughter’s responses indicate that she works well with others and enjoys participating in team efforts. She’s pleasant, cooperative, friendly, and helpful. She is easy to get along with and non-confrontational. She is very sensitive to the needs of others, and also to their feelings.  And her top attributes – persistence, initiative, innovation, concern for others, and independence – are considered to be her strengths in the workplace. True, this all reflects my daughter’s personality; but the jobs listed were of no interest to my daughter.  I do not feel you can match career possibilities based only of personality traits, you have to look deeper. For instance,  questions about the student’s interest with cognitive skills necessary for specific jobs and careers; questions about the student’s interest in music, art, and math that can lead to self-employment options; questions about the student’s motivation, participation, and performance in being able to acquire work or to maintain a job or career; or questions about the student’s response in settings to learn and work. My daughter has taken a couple career surveys, and I would not recommend CashCrunch Careers.

Choosing a career path can be frustrating and time-consuming for most teens; but career surveys help students consider potential careers, leading to better informed decisions, of both college and career readiness. The results do not always reflect what the student originally thought of pursuing for a career. They are merely suggestions to provide guidance in choosing a career that they will find rewarding. These career surveys have helped my daughter explore many career options; and I truly believe God has a plan for my daughter, and I am so glad she is not rushing in to any career; but allowing the Lord to lead and guide her.

I would also like to add that CashCrunch Games offers two educational games. CashCrunch Junior is a physical board game for elementary and middle school students. The game focuses on the value of money and money habits. CashCrunch 101 is an online game for high school and college students. The game focuses on money management skills. A fun way to learn about money!

Visit the Crew Blog to read what the Homeschool Review Crew has to say about CashCrunch Careers.

Stand Strong

The choice between doing good and doing evil may seem like a no brainer; but I was recently reminded how quickly the old man wants to retaliate when we are wronged by another person, even more so when the individually does not even know you personally. Throughout that difficult day, God allowed me to remain silent; and the following day, He encouraged me through His Word.

Matthew 5:44-48 reads “But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you. That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and the unjust. For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same? And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so? Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.”

No, it is not easy to remain silent; but James 1:12 tells us “Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.” God gives us the strength to endure temptations. People are watching our attitudes and actions, and we must remember that God lives in us and through us; and our testimony may bring a lost soul to Christ.

Matthew 5:16 reads “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

Today I want to encourage you with these lyrics – Stand strong, hold on, even when it’s tough, gotta lean on God and He will hold you up! Stand strong, hold on, even when it’s hard, gotta lean on Him and remember who you are! Stand Strong!

 

Texas HOME Educators - October Newsletter

 

Calendar of Events

October 05 Co-op Classes

October 12 Ballet Classes & Bowling League

October 19 Field Trip & Bowling League

October 26 Ballet Classes & Bowling League

 

Co-op Classes

09:00 Musical Theater - please print your script and bring it with you to class.

11:00 Service Scouts - please bring 12 craft items to make craft kits for children. Moms, please post of our FB group page what you are bringing so we do not duplicate an item. After members assemble the craft kits, we will take them to St. Elizabeth Hospital, so be sure to wear your vest to the Service Scouts meeting.

 

Ballet Classes

09:00 Ballet I (ages 3-6)

10:00 Ballet II (ages 7-10)

11:00 Ballet III (ages 11+)

12:00 Pointe (ages 11+)

 

Classes will be held at Studio D in Lumberton, Texas. Girls attire is black leotard, pink tights, pink ballet shoes, and hair in a bun. Please do not wear the ballet shoes outdoors. Ballet tuition is $25 per month. Pointe tuition is $25 per month. If you have any questions or need help with directions, please contact Susan Reed at 409-504-8135.

 

Bowling League

October 05 at 2:00 p.m.

October 12 at 2:00 p.m.

October 19 at 2:00 p.m.

October 26 at 2:00 p.m.
 

Texas HOME Educators Bowling League is a seven-week season held at Crossroads Bowling Center in Beaumont, Texas. Please arrive by 1:45 p.m. to be ready to bowl when the lanes come on at 2:00 p.m. League members pay $8 weekly to bowl 3 games; plus a one-time $4 fee for the United States Bowling Congress. Bumper Buddies pay $5 weekly to bowl 2 games. Please bring cash weekly because all money is collected through team envelopes.

 

Family Field Trip

Register by October 14 for our family field trip on October 19 to see the National Museum of Funeral History. Our self-guided tour begins at 10:00 a.m. at the National Museum of Funeral History, 415 Barren Springs Drive, Houston, TX 77090. Cost is $8 per student and $9 per adult. Register through the link below to join us at the National Museum of Funeral History!

 

https://www.freewebstore.org/texas-home-educators/Field_Trips/cat4485293_3673518.aspx

 

Happy Homeschooling!

Princess Cut

As I was reading through the Summer 2018 issue of The Old Schoolhouse Magazine, a family education magazine, I realized my single review was selected for print. Needless to say, I was a bit excited! Many know I write for the Schoolhouse Review Crew because you see these reviews on my blog; but I also write for the Single Crew and these reviews are all posted on The Old Schoolhouse website and only selected ones are in print. Here is the single review for Princess Cut -

Princess Cut Movie (DVD)

Watchman Pictures

www.princesscutmovie.com

In Princess Cut, we enter the world of headstrong but helpless romantic Grace Anderson and her life in the rural Carolina town of East Bend. Grace has dreamed all her life of the day when “Mr. Right” slips a Princess Cut diamond on her finger and swears to love her forever. Tonight may be the night as Stewart has something special planned after 15 months together! But when things don’t go as planned, and romance crashes down around her, it launches her on a quest, aided by her father, to understand what it means to truly love another person and that true love is worth waiting for.

I may be old-fashioned; but there are many things I love about this movie and what it teaches our daughters. Grace’s father takes full responsibility as head of his household to prepare Grace for marriage. Through a lesson using soybeans, we learn what it means to truly love another person. Our daughters should seek a husband who is trustworthy, willing to lead his family, and understanding of his wife’s needs.

Grace allows her father to guide her and as she allows God to write her love story she seeks her father’s approval before entering another relationship. Then as God writes her love story, Clint seeks approval for a relationship with Grace and with her father’s blessing, they prayerfully consider the possibility of marriage.  

But there’s two more truths found in this movie when Clint brings Grace flowers. He gives an iris to symbolize Jesus and how we need to build our identity around him to be truly satisfied and a rose to represent the need for purity in the relationship.

My husband and I watched this movie with our sixteen-year-old daughter and I am so glad she sees that true love is worth waiting for when you allow God to write your love story. The best Christian romance movie I have seen in years!

-Product review by Susan Reed, The Old Schoolhouse Magazine, February 2018

Lab Lessons - Why Do Boats Float?

According to the Archimedes Principle, boats float because water pushes up on them with a force equal to their weight. This is called buoyancy. Using pieces of modeling clay and other simple materials, you’ll be exploring how size and shape affect a boat’s ability to float. You’ll also get to see just how much weight your boat can hold and which design works the best.

MATERIALS

Tank of water or large mixing bowl

Modeling clay

Pennies

PROCEDURE

1. Mold the clay into several different shapes until it floats. Determine what shape produces the most buoyancy. Once you do that, you’re ready to begin loading your boat with cargo.

2. Place pennies in your boat until it sinks. Keep track of how many pennies it held.

3. Test several shapes to see which holds the most pennies before sinking.

THINK ABOU IT

1. What characteristics of the winning boats helped them support the most weight?

2. Does this idea apply to large ships that carry thousands of tons of cargo? How do they stay afloat if they are made of metal?

Happy Homeschooling!

The Kingdom Files - Crew Review

The Kingdom Files is a new biography series published by Barbour Publishing. I recently had the privilege to review two books in this series – The Kingdom Files: Who Was Jonah? and The Kingdom Files: Who Was Mary, Mother of Jesus? This series is written for children ages eight through twelve. The biography series explores the life of a Bible character and draws children into a different time and place as they learn about key people who were part of God’s kingdom.

Each biography features three sections known as files. The Fact File contains information about the Bible character’s name, where they were from, occupation, years active, timeline, kingdom work, and key stats. The Action File is the biblical account told in a kid-friendly narrative. It lays out the Bible events showing the character in action. The Power File is where you will find the main lesson broken down so children can see that the stories in the Bible really do apply to life today. It contains ten “Power-Ups” that will help you connect scripture to our daily lives. Memory verses will go along with each “Power-Up” to help you plant God’s Word in your heart. Throughout each book, Clue Boxes offer applications to help you keep track of your thoughts as you make your way through the file. And you can find games and free educator resources at KingdomFiles.com.

 

The Kingdom Files: Who Was Jonah? This biography explores the life of Jonah while drawing readers into a fascinating time and place as they learn about the reluctant prophet who said “no” to God, was tossed overboard during a storm, and swallowed by a giant fish.

 

The Kingdom Files: Who Was Mary, Mother of Jesus? This biography explores the life of Mary while drawing readers into a fascinating time and place as they learn about the courageous young teenager who said “yes” to God and ultimately gave birth to the Savior of the world.

Of the two biographies, our family enjoyed The Kingdom Files: Who Was Jonah? most. There are several lessons we can learn from Jonah’s life. One, we are all called to spread God’s Word. Two, God never walks away from His children. Three, how comforting to know that God is always there for us. Four, God hears us when we call on Him. And as a parent, I was glad to see this reminder – not only did God have plans for Jonah, Jeremiah 29:11 says that God has plans for you too!

After having the opportunity to review these two biographies, our family is looking forward to reading through more of the Kingdom Files series. God has used Matt Koceich to write this entertaining and educational series, and you will not be disappointed. A great way to learn about key people who were part of God’s kingdom.

Visit the Crew Blog to read what the Homeschool Review Crew has to say about The Kingdom Files: Who Was Jonah? and The Kingdom Files: Who Was Mary, Mother of Jesus?