Christian Unschooling: November 2008

Sunday, November 30, 2008

Issue #31, April 6, 2004

Seedling

Nurturing our children in the freedom of Christ
Issue #31, April 6, 2004
Sr. Editor & Publisher: Elissa Wahl
Assistant Editor: Kit Ward

IN THIS ISSUE

1. Welcome from the Editor
2. Pursuing Our Delights as Home Schooling Moms, by JoAnn Ehlinger
3. Introducing… Assistant Editor, Kit!
4. My Journey to Unschooling, by Cyndi Clack
5. The Home Schooled Year, by Susan McGlohn
6. Ordering info on our book
7. Closing letter from the editor
8. Subscription Information
9. Reprint Information

1. Welcome from the editor

Hi all, hope this newsletter is received in the manner it was
sent ... in love and through God!

Seedlings is back! While Teri has had to bow out due to overwhelming
obligations (we all know how that feels!) we are pleased to welcome
aboard Kit Ward.

While I am mentioning changes, please note our new web URL at

http://www.christianunschooling.org

We had some technical difficulties that kept me locked out of
maintaining the site for awhile, but updates can now be made.

Many of you may remember that my baby was going through some chilling
medical issues. I am pleased to report that he is doing GREAT! He is
a very active toddler now, about to turn 3! In October he had the
last surgeries to remove the port-a-cath and feeding tube. While he
has some delays, he thrills us daily with his antics. He is 100% BOY.

Well, please read on, and we pray you are blessed!

2. Pursuing Our Delights as Home Schooling Moms
By JoAnn Ehlinger

The alarm sounded; the coffee maker slurped to life, and I dragged
myself out of bed.

My nose guided me toward the aroma of the coffee, and to the
kitchen. I was greeted by a bright-eyed person whom I vaguely
recognized to be my child. Pouring a cup of coffee I nodded and
mumbled sleepily in response to numerous questions.
"Why is the sky blue?
"Why isn't my hair long like my sister's"
"Is it O.K. for the dog to eat rubber bands?"

Having downed my first cup of coffee, I was -- well, sort of ready to
face the day. Where to start? Laundry, make the beds, clean up last
nights art project, find the dining room table, wake the rest of the
kids, eat breakfast, do something "delight-driven" and educational,
fix lunch, eat standing up, play with kids, more laundry, supper,
dishes and eventually bed. But what about *my* delights? With all
this going on in my life, all I need is to add something extra to it,
right? Wrong!!

I suggest that one of the best things a Christian homeschooling mom
can do is to follow at least one of her own delights. In doing this
she stands as a living example of continual delight in the world the
Lord has given us.

Do I hear you thinking, "I can't possibly do something for myself,
when I have to make sure that my children are learning," or, "There
just isn't time; it would be selfish."
If so, I beg to disagree! I believe that the spiritual state of the
mom in the home is vital. Spending time with God is, of course, #1,
but finding time to pursue our own delights should fit in somewhere.

What do you enjoy doing? Think about it: if you had just thirty
minutes to work on something you enjoy, what would that be? Sleeping
doesn't count! Do you like to sew, scrapbook, write, garden, paint,
draw or take pictures? There are so many more areas of interest you
could pursue! Find one that fits who you are and pursue it!!

Maybe it is a new interest. For example, I am educating myself
concerning soap making. I plan to begin making soap this spring. I am
reading about it, creating a notebook and getting antsy for garage
sales so I can collect the equipment I need. I work on my notebook
while my girls are around. They see me reading and they ask
questions. Pursuing your delights doesn't mean you have to exclude
the children. On the contrary, if anything, your passion/delight may
become theirs!

Maybe your delight is something that God has placed in your heart; a
desire to write, or to start a ministry of some kind. Psalm 103:4-5
says who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and
compassion, who satisfies your desires with good things so that your
youth is renewed like the eagles. Delighting yourself in something
you love can be refreshing. It can bring about a renewal of your
spirit and can sweep through the rest of the family.

For starters, just take some time and make a list of things you would
like to do, something that will renew your spirit. Choose something
from the list and go to town!! It doesn't have to be long or
involved, and it doesn't have to be short and sweet. It simply has to
be a delight to you! You are worth it!

God is the potter; our children are His clay; as parents we are the
water and the wheel.

Copyright 2004, JoAnn Ehlinger
All rights reserved

3. Introducing… Assistant Editor, Mary ("Kit") Ward

Hi! I live in Washington state and have three grown sons. I began
helping other people homeschool their children before I had any of my
own, in approximately 1979. In between then and now I have gone from
Calvert School (boxed, complete) curriculum to unschooling, and
obtained education degrees of my own, to boot.

As a '60's teenager I was attracted to all-natural-everything.
Natural learning was the eventual natural outgrowth of this laid-back
style! The world has changed so much in that time! I know I bring a
unique perspective to the lives of many younger moms and I pray it
will bless you as I try to share this here in SEEDLING.

In raising my three sons, for the most part as a single mom, I have
used many different options including public, private, and
alternative programs as well as homeschooling. While I'm
completely "sold" on unschooling, I view them all as tools in our
toolboxes, to be used with prayer. Because every homeschool mom is,
by necessity, unschooling at least herself!

In between SEEDLING issues, if you are interested in discussion
and/or more resources, please feel free to join us at:

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Chr-U (e-mail discussion group)

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChristianUnschooling (Rest for the
weary - e-zine/tips)

http://www.HomeschoolChat.us (Christian Chat portal for 24/7
support)

Blessings!
Mary Ward, M.Ed.
a.k.a. "Kit"
www.TeacherMom.com
or e-mail seedling@TeacherMom.com

4. My Journey to Unschooling
By Cyndi Clack

Journey . . . something that suggests moving from one place to
another. That certainly describes our experience with home education.
We have not always been in this place of unschooling, living and
learning. This is the story of how we got here.

As it seems we question everything to do with the status quo now, it
is remarkable that thirteen years ago, we put our oldest child,
Amber, on a bus and sent her off to school because that's just what
you did when your child was five years old. It was during that year,
though several amazing incidents, that God convicted our hearts about
homeschooling. We went to our first homeschool conference in spring
of 1990. The only vendors there were Abeka, Bob Jones, Christian
Liberty, Konos and Lifetime Books and Gifts. We naively purchased
ABEKA and began homeschooling in the Fall of 1990. The next ten years
or so were filled with various school at home programs . . .Abeka,
Konos, Unit Studies and Sonlight.

Of course there was a pattern to our schooling. I had a baby about
every 18 - 20 months during those years. I would get pregnant, be
very tired and sick. The children would pursue their own interests
with my direction from the couch. We read tons of books together and
watched a lot of cool things on TV and had great discussions. The
children learned how to cook, how to maintain the house and how to do
laundry. The baby would be born and a couple months later, I would
panic that we had not done any schoolwork. Off to the book fair to
stock up on curriculum, bring it home, hit the books. Slowly we would
get bored with that and start drifting back into our comfortable
style of living and learning. Then, I would be pregnant again and the
whole cycle would start over.

I never could seem to be totally at peace with unschooling during
that time. I carried guilt that we weren't "doing school" Their
academic growth was narrowly defined in my mind as working through
textbooks, completing workbooks and taking tests. Not to mention that
I had no real understanding of unschooling and didn't believe that a
Christian could be an unschooler. It was ten years of inward turmoil.

When my Amber turned fourteen and was considered in highschool, I
became determined that we needed to get serious about credits. So we
began to tackle the subjects that she would need to graduate,
according to the state. For the most part, Amber went with the flow.
I gave the assignments and she did the work. However, Algebra was a
nightmare. We cried, we screamed, we threw books. But she had to have
Algebra, right?

Let me take a slight turn to tell you some other things that were
going on at the same time. In 2001, we were really being challenged
about our parenting practices. You see, basically, we had parented in
fear. Fear of failure, fear of our children making wrong choices,
fear of the opinions of others. Having a lot of children turns the
eyes of people on you and we were determined to look like the perfect
Christian homeschool family. Legalism ruled in our home. That year we
began to reap what we had sown. The harvest was just what we were
trying to avoid . . . rebellion, anger, deception.

It was during that year, that we realized that what we had been doing
was not working. We began to question everything and we cried out to
the Lord for His guidance. God began an amazing work in our lives. He
began to teach my husband and me about grace and mercy. We were
heartbroken but determined to rebuild the relationships with our
children. I can testify to His faithfulness in restoring
relationships. His grace and mercy are abundant!

In March of 2001, while I was still pondering what all of this meant.
I went to a homeschool conference. I was saddened to see that almost
every speaker advocated a strict school at home program and
encouraged a very legalistic parenting philosophy. All that had
brought us was sorrow. While standing in the booth of Lifetime Books
and Gifts, near tears, I was approached by Tina Farewell, the owner
of Lifetime. She asked if she could help me and I answered in tears
that I just didn't know. She spent quite a while talking to me. I
don't remember a lot of what she said but one thing stuck with me and
started me onto the path of unschooling. She revealed that her
eighteen-year-old daughter had not taken Algebra. She said, "I
determined that my relationship with Elizabeth was more important
than algebra. She can take algebra anytime but if I ruin our
relationship now it may never be restored." Wow! I was stunned! For
the first time, I realized that I had to step out of the box.

You know what the box is: the box that says each of our children has
to take subjects A, B, C, D, etc. And they have only twelve years to
complete those subjects. I realized that the only reason that algebra
was an issue was that someone in some office somewhere decided that
to be well educated my children had to take algebra in the ninth
grade. (Feel free to substitute any subject for algebra). The fact is
that whoever that was didn't know my child at all. But the Creator of
the universe knows my children! He created my children for a unique
purpose and He has equipped them for that purpose. I realized that I
had to step into agreement with the Lord about the destiny of my
children.

I came home from that conference and guess what Amber was doing?
ALGEBRA! I asked her why she was doing it, and she replied, "because
you said that I had to." I told her then that I was lifting that
requirement. If Algebra were a part of the plan for her life, God
would let us know.
I was scared to death!!! This was really radical. My heart was
leading me and telling me that this was the right thing, but I had to
convince my mind.

I spent many months researching unschooling and the history of our
education system. To make a long story short, after finding out what
the purposes of our education system are, I knew that I could not
replicate that in our home any longer. It was a long time before I
would publicly admit that I am an unschooler. My previous
misconceptions and judgments limited my ability to do that. But I
stand proudly today to say that we are Christian Unschoolers, living
a life totally devoted to the will of God and his purposes for our
life.

It has been a remarkable journey. It's amazing that when we started
out, the plan was to teach our children. We have ended up being
taught many things. I am grateful for God's love, grace and mercy
that travel with us. The best part? We haven't arrived yet . . . the
journey continues.

Cyndi Clack, child of the King, wife of Chris and Mommi to Amber, 19;
Katie, 17; Justin, 14; Molly, 12; Stephen, 11; Drew, 9; Gracie,
8; Noah, 6 and Logan, 4.

5. The Home Schooled Year
By Susan McGlohn

Many things in life are cyclical: infancy to adulthood, spring to
winter. This fact of life shows itself in the posts on our statewide
homeschool e-mail list. New members flood in at about the same time
each year, and I enjoy the watching the seasons of the homeschool
year unfold, marked by the questions asked on the VA Eclectic
Homeschooling List:

~*~August~*~ Anxious posts appear as to
"What is `the best' curriculum?" and
"How do the Standards of Learning apply to home schoolers?" and
"How do we prepare for testing in the spring?" and
"Do I have to test my kindergartner?" and
"What if we don't score high enough?"

~*~September~*~ Posts about play groups and park days rise to the
surface.

~*~October~*~ Enthusiastic posts float in about how great home
schooling is and how much fun it's been the first two months,
and "Why didn't we do this years ago?"

~*~November~*~ The public schools have issued their first report
cards. New list members inquire, "Should I pull my kid out now or
wait until Christmas break?" "What is deschooling?" "How can I teach
math?"

~*~December~*~ Posts ask, "How many days after I pull my child out
do I have before submitting my Notice Of Intent?" "Can I pull him out
before I receive approval?" "What curriculum should I buy?"

~*~January~*~ New Year Resolutions abound to really "buckle down
with renewed spirit". Ski trips fill their rosters, and the indoors
types look for software and book suggestions.

~*~February~*~ In February, posts get a bit more specific, asking
about how to teach certain concepts such as fractions or phonics; or
they have some really great resources and links to share. Early in
the month, some new members are those disillusioned with the mid-year
public school reports, or have just realized their high school
student may not graduate on time after all, in spite of their own
hard persistence. "If I have to work this hard, why not be in charge?
What is this I hear about a book called The Teenage Liberation
Handbook?"

~*~March~*~ "Is it too soon to test our kids?" "If I pull my kids
out now, do I still have to test them at the end of the year?" State
convention queries trickle in with the spring rains.

~*~April~*~ Members mention field trips to the bay to look for
sharks' teeth, park days, and play groups. Even the more traditional-
style home schoolers take the "unschooling" days off to combat the
cabin fever of the past few months.

~*~May~*~ Talk of standardized testing and proof of progress is in
the air, along with flower pollen and bees buzzing and birds
singing. "Where can I order a diploma?" "What if my children don't
score high enough on the test? Can I retest them?"

~*~June~*~ "Does anyone school through the summer?" Used curriculum
sales abound.

~*~July~*~ "Is there still time to submit testing results?" "When is
the deadline for the NOI for the next school year?"

~*~August~*~ Here we are, right back to August, realizing that we
have lived, and loved, and learned through another entire year of
home education. For some, the question, "What is the best
curriculum?" will be met by the knowing grin of a now-seasoned home
educator, and a ready keyboard to tap out suggestions of "options"
for the newbies, where last year there had been only a knotted,
puzzled brow.

<><
The above is an adaptation of an article which originally appeared in
the VHEA Newsletter, and has been shared here by kind permission of
the author.
copyright © 2004 Susan McGlohn, all rights reserved

6. Ordering Info on Our Book

In case anyone has forgotten, we have actually written and published,
a book! Christian Unschooling: Growing Your Children in the Freedom
of Christ, is available nationwide.

We are found at Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble (www.bn.com ) , even
Walmart.com
To read an excerpt of the book, please go to our publisher's website:
http://www.championpress.com/Level4Books/Unschooling.htm

7. Closing Letter

Well, we pray that this issue has touched you...please feel free to
forward this ezine in its entirety to any who might be interested.

As our time is drastically limited, by homeschooling, health and
other issues…Seedling will be going to at least bi-monthly issues.
Hopefully this will take off some of the time pressure. We pray it
can remain a blessing and serve as a reminder why we have chosen to
homeschool. Please send in submissions!!

Until next time,
Be blessed you all!

Elissa Wahl
Kit Ward

8. Subscription Information

Subscribe at : http://groups.yahoo.com/group/seedling or email:
Seedling-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

Unsubscribe at: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/seedling or email:
Seedling-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com

9. Reprint Information

Individual authors herein retain their own copyrights. You may
freely copy this entire newsletter or material from this newsletter
in other nonprofit publications (unless otherwise marked in the
article), but you MUST include the author's name and this entire
notice:

"Reprinted with permission of Elissa Wahl from Seedling, a
Christian Unschooling E-Zine. For a free subscription, send
any e-mail message to Seedling-subscribe@yahoogroups.com or visit
URL: http://www.ChristianUnschooling.org"

Issue #30, Oct 1, 2002

Seedling

Nurturing our children in the freedom of Christ
Issue #30, Oct 1, 2002
Sr. Editor & Publisher: Elissa Wahl
Assistant Editor: Teri Brown

IN THIS ISSUE

1. Welcome from the Editor
2. Unschooling Language Arts by Lisa LaLonde
3. What Are We Doing This For?!? By Tanis McNeil
4. Book Review, DayTripping
5. Book Review, Heads Up Helping!
6. Ordering info on our book
7. Closing letter from the editor
8. Subscription Information
9. Reprint Information

1. Welcome from the editor

Hi all, hope this newsletter is received in the manner it was
sent ... in love and through God!

Thanks to everyone praying for our families…we are enjoying much more
health than in the recent past.

I have not been able to devote much time to Seedling or our website
lately…I so apologize. This is my ministry and I hope to be able to
devote the proper time to it soon.

On the heels of my baby's illness, came discord in my home state
regarding homeschool regulations. As homeschooling is near and dear
to me, I hit this subject head on and spearheaded our state's only
statewide networking group. We are working very hard on passing some
Administrative Codes that will be beneficial to NV homeschoolers. In
an upcoming edition of Seedling, I will dedicate some space to laws,
how they affect us, how we can be more active, etc. This is truly an
area that could make or break our ability to educate our children as
we feel led.

Please read on, and we pray you are blessed!

2. UNSCHOOLING LANGUAGE ARTS

"Language arts" has been an area that has been easy for my oldest
daughter to acquire, and now I see my second and third child going
through the same process. Although these skills have begun at
different ages, I see a similar pattern. For my children, these
skills have been learned through reading quality literature. We are
a family of voracious readers, and I believe this is what has led my
children to acquire the language arts skills.

My daughter began at age six to memorize the Billy and Blaze books
that we continually read out loud. She could "read" them word for
word because she had heard them so often. A few months after doing
this, she said she wanted to read more books; ones we had never read
together.

We played a few phonics games, and she spent about a week with a book
trying to figure out words. We continued to read a loud to her,
especially at a higher level than she was reading at. We went to the
library weekly, and she became engrossed with reading. Now, at age
12, we cannot keep enough good books around for her desires. We
still read a loud because it is a treasure we share together.

The other areas of language arts have come easily to my oldest, and I
perceive this to be because of the amount of reading she does on her
own as well as what we read to her. For example, she is an
incredible speller. Soon after she began reading, she went on a
story writing binge. She used very phonetic way of invented spelling
at that point; using the first and last sounds and sometimes a few
middle sounds. As she read more, she began to notice her spelling
and gradually added more letters to words, especially vowels. By age
eight, she was a fairly decent speller and most anyone could read
what she wrote. I see this same pattern of spelling emerging from my
nine-year-old son. My five-year-old son is at the early stage of
copying words and asking how to spell many words.

In addition to spelling, my daughter has a knowledgeable vocabulary
and is quiet adept at grammar. Again, I believe this is due to
reading good quality literature. I do not have to do pages of
grammar practice and vocabulary lists to achieve this result. She
notices when words do not sound correct. She uses proper tenses,
subject-verb agreement and punctuation because she has read so much
that she knows what sounds and looks correct.

My goal for my children in the language arts area is to develop
competent readers and writers who love to do these things. I believe
they are acquiring these skills quite naturally, using high quality
living books.

Lisa LaLonde jlalonde3@juno.com I love to write about unschooling.
Please feel free to contact me via email.

3. WHAT ARE WE DOING THIS FOR?!?

Don't we all face this soul-searching question on a regular basis? Do
others' misunderstandings and preconceived ideas cause you to wonder
at times if you are just holding your children hostage? Pushing the
panic button of our inadequacies and our children's issues often
brings forth the doubt. We ask questions to pacify the worldliness in
us like "Do math lessons really need to be a part of my
responsibility?" Instead we need to ask ourselves "What does God want
me to get from this process?"

My mother worked full time nearly all my growing up years. I longed
to know her better than what our limited interaction afforded. As a
result, (combined with serious personal issues), there was a
pervasive battle going on in my heart and mind that I couldn't
articulate. I was weak and sick like a prisoner of war. I
consequently made a vow to myself, while young, that I would know my
kids and they would know me. I decided that I should be at home with
my babies and preschoolers. Then God introduced me to home education
through friends I admired for their intimate interactions that I felt
I wasn't achieving with my kids with my best intentions.

Now the war going on in my mind and heart that I was training my kids
in was for true freedom and intimacy. Due to some conflicting
objectives, however, I often felt as if I was working for the wrong
side! One day I was desperate for a new level of understanding and
God spoke to my heart. He said (among other things) I
was "performance oriented, instead of relationship oriented". I was
wounded and wounding.

James chapter four, says, " What causes fights and quarrels among
you? Don't they come from your desires that battle within you? It
isn't about opposing battles between people, but our own internal
battles that lead to problems. Scripture shows also that the source
and solution are supernatural. (2 Chron. 20:15, Ephesians 6:12)
Dealing daily and seasonally with internal and external conflict, we
must remember our battle is not against flesh and blood. In Nehemiah,
we find a picture of the people of God holding a sword in one hand
and supplies in the other as they did the work of rebuilding the
walls. An awareness of the need for strong walls needs to come from a
fear of the Lord, not a fear of man. Guard your heart, we are told,
for it is the well- spring of life. What are we guarding it from?
Distractions and a competitive mindset can sabotage our focus. I have
faced the battles of my own personal distractions as well as
comparing my methods with others'. We are admonished that soldiers in
training do not get caught up in civilian affairs.

There are three lines in battle grounds: The front, the support, and
the reserve. We can place ourselves on the front lines in new ways
as, in the context of our own training, we take on a new mantle of
authority; directing all of our children's education.

On the front lines we need a continual supply of ammunition and
supplies. We must also seek to alternate heavy duty warfare with
supporting others in the battle. It reaffirms our resolve.
Complacency and despondency are common in the reserve line due to
lack of consistent, focused involvement. The year my children were in
public school, their teacher asked me privately why I didn't become a
(real, implied) teacher. I timidly responded with my vow, hoping I
wouldn't offend this concerned teacher and conscientious mother. I
left that encounter with a feeling of shame that I had wasted what
abilities I did have.

Analyzing a cycle of reactions, I soon realized that a continued
focus on improving myself (especially, to feel more significant and
effective) leads to a more negative, naval gazing view of my life.
Plummeting confidence can numb us into a reserved mode. I harbored
the apathy of the reserve line by not taking those thoughts captive
immediately.

Take every thought captive by giving it to God. Jesus reminds us, "
Apart from Me you can do nothing." On their own, soldiers would
accomplish very little, and bring harm to the cause. They were
conditioned mentally to accept any deprivation or sacrifice,
including death, as duty and obligation to make them ready for the
continual bombardment of their resolve and function. Stand firm and
wear the armor He provides. Identify, and never be ashamed. Your
adversary the devil goes about as a lion, seeking whom he may devour.
He is a Hitler to the soul. Where did the bravest soldiers'
sacrificial mindsets come from? They understood the consequences for
countless others, known to them and unknown, if they abdicated their
responsibility. To obey was critical to the survival of the ideals
their previous, comfortable existence was based on. Are we consumed
with a desire to see that plan carried out no matter what?

I love the song by Twila Paris, "What Did He Die For?" It compares an
American soldier with Christ. The answer is a unwavering "Freedom,
and Love." The freedom is of the Lord. The love comes through us as
we obey.

Kathy Waldorf (workshop speaker) once wrote me," …being committed to
home education isn't the goal. We need to be committed to Christ, to
find our identity in Him. Even if it doesn't look like what you
thought it would be, He is quite capable of directing both your
education and your children's."

Kathy further shares, " I also know that if I am daily in the Word
that God will let me know if I've missed the mark." If I'm afraid, I
can trust God to lead me to listen to others, to build my confidence.
(Judges 7) As we keep our minds on Him He promises our minds will be
kept in perfect peace.

Tanis McNeil, mom of 4

4. Book Review Day Tripping, by Teri J. Brown

Day Tripping: Engaging Your Child's Mind and Imagination Through
Family Field Trips, will get your family started on collecting
memories rather than toys!

"Families are fracturing in this fast-paced modern world where time
is the most precious resource a family has," says author Teri
Brown. "Day trips are one way a family can slow down and spend some
time together as a unit. The experience, whether it's a trip to a
museum, wildlife viewing area, or farm, becomes a part of the
family's collective memory, something to share and recollect for
years to come."

"Positive memories of family outings create the warmth and bonding
that is so needed in our world today."

Brown knows what she's talking about. As the Field Trip Lady for 'The
Link', a national homeschooling magazine, Teri has been
giving "DayTripping" tips and advice to homeschoolers for the last
several years. Now, with Day Tripping, she brings her expertise to
parents everywhere.

To obtain a review copy of the book, DayTripping: Engaging Your
Child's Mind and Imagination Through Family Field Trips, or an
interview with the author please contact:

IHS Publishing
1618 Kendolph
Denton, Texas 76205

Phone: 940-566-6123 (help line)
940-383-0443 (fax)

For more info on Day Tripping: www.fieldtripping.com
Author's Site

5. Book Review Heads Up Helping!

Teaching Tips and Techniques for working with ADD, ADHD, and Other
Children with Challenges..by Melinda L. Boring, MA-CCC/SLP

Finally a book about homeschooling kids with ADHD, by a mom who
homeschools her children who have ADHD! Fabulous!

This book chronologies one family's journey through parenthood,
homeschooling, the realization that their son had some difficulties,
a subsequent "diagnosis" and much more. Labeling, advocacy,
strategies, every issue that a parent faces when trying to teach a
child with ADHD is explored and expounded upon in this book.

I am very impressed with the amount of knowledge the reader can gain
on the topic of ADHD. For parents who have their children at home and
want to better understand them and their perceptions, this book is
IT. You may have some or all the struggles this mom had, no matter, I
guarantee you will read this book and feel empowered and hopeful…and
best of all, like you can better understand your child!

Love your kids, differences and difficulties!

Heads Up Helping, Melinda L. Boring, ISBN # 1-55369-332-9, Traford
Publishing, www.trafford.com or go to the authors website:
www.HeadsUpNow.com

6. Ordering Info on Our Book

In case anyone has forgotten, we have actually written and published,
a book! ChristianUnschooling; Growing Your Children in the Freedom of
Christ, is available nationwide.

We are found at Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble (www.bn.com ) , even
Walmart.com
To read an excerpt of the book, please go to our publisher's website:
http://www.championpress.com/Level4Books/Unschooling.htm

7. Closing Letter

Well, we pray that this issue has touched you...please feel free to
forward this ezine to any who might be interested.

As our time is drastically limited, by homeschooling, health and
other issues…Seedling will be going to at least bi-monthly issues.
Hopefully this will take off some of the time pressure. We pray it
can remain a blessing and serve as a reminder why we have chosen to
homeschool.

Until next time,
Be blessed you all!

Elissa Wahl
Teri Brown

8. Subscription Information

Subscribe at : http://yahoogroups.com/community/Seedling or email
ChristianUnschooler@yahoo.com

Unsubscribe at: http://yahoogroups.com/community/Seedling or email
ChristianUnschooler@yahoo.com

Issue #29, August 4, 2002

Seedling

Nurturing our children in the freedom of Christ
Issue #29, August 4, 2002
Sr. Editor & Publisher: Elissa Wahl
Assistant Editor: Teri Brown

IN THIS ISSUE

1. Welcome from the Editor
2. Homeschooling in Time of Trials by Tamara Eaton
3. Homeschooling Chronically Ill Kids by Elissa Wahl
4. Some Links
5. Live & Learn Unschooling Conference Info
6. Ordering Info on our book
7. Closing letter from the editor
8. Subscription Information
9. Reprint Information

1. Welcome from the editor

Hi all, hope this newsletter is received in the manner it was
sent ... in love and through God!

Lots has happened since our last issue of Seedling, way back in
February. I imagine so, in your lives, as well. Teri's family and my
family, have both been afflicted with some ongoing medical concerns.
We heartily apologize for not being able to continue publishing
Seedling during these last few months, but our priorities had to lay
with our families.

Teri was diagnosed with a pituitary tumor, she underwent surgery and
they were able to remove a huge portion of it. A small amount
remains, so Teri will need to start undergoing radiation therapy. She
asks for your continued prayers.

My baby had some varied symptoms that needed constant supervision and
treatment, and eventually called for a prolonged hospital stay, both
here Las Vegas, and also in Los Angeles. While he doesn't yet have a
definitive diagnosis, and may never have, he is home now and much
recovered. Prognosis is great, and we are thankful.

I guess it is easy to see why Teri and I had to put Seedling, and
much of our lives, on hold, but even in the months of treatments, and
constant Dr visits, we were still homeschool moms. Our kids can now
spout off more medical terms than most, are familiar with weird
looking instruments, and have first hand knowledge of what hospital
rooms look like, but they never stopped learning. The learning just
looked different!

While I don't have many articles for this edition, I have a few words
of comfort about homeschooling through trials, and during sicknesses.

I will give you back your health and heal your wounds, says the
LORD. Jeremiah 30:17
It is in His power, if He deems it so…we need to remember that...even
the bleakest diagnosis, or lack thereof…can be handled by our God.

Though our bodies are dying, our spirits are being renewed every day.
2 Corinthians 4:16

Please read on, and we pray you are blessed!

2. Homeschooling in Time of Trials
by Tamara Eaton

No matter what we're going through in life, if God has called us to
homeschool, He will give us the grace, wisdom and strength! In all
the years we've homeschooled, we've done so through many different
circumstances and trials. It's not like God calls us to homeschool
and we say, "OK, Lord, now will you please hold off all the trials
for the next 12 years so we'll be able to really concentrate on
academics?" He promises to help us THROUGH the trials, and in the
MIDST of the trials!

There have been periods of time when we didn't accomplish as much
academically as I'd planned because of major moves, new babies, busy
toddlers, a major illness, and other challenging circumstances, but
guess what? Through it all we not only survived, but the Lord blessed
and worked in many other areas of our lives! It was good for our kids
to see us trust God in trials, they grew stronger spiritually. And
they didn't really suffer academically either because we operate on a
year round, relaxed homeschool as a part of our whole lifestyle plan.
I like what William Butler Yeats said, "Education is not the filling
of a pail, but the lighting of a fire." Homeschooling parents are
busy lighting fires and those fires continue to burn in spite of
difficult circumstances if we have helped our children enjoy learning
during their early years.

At times those challenging homeschooling periods were a blessing in
disguise because they kept me from trying to imitate "school at home"
in the earlier years. I was forced to have a relaxed attitude and
look to our textbooks or curriculum as "tools" to enrich our
homeschool instead of being a slave to them. As a result, our
children really enjoyed learning and didn't get burned out from too
much formal studies.

It also helps to look at the overall picture in light of Eternity.
What does *God* want us to accomplish in homeschooling our children?
Has He called us to homeschool? Has He not promised to give us wisdom
and strength? If we're experiencing trials is it not because He has
allowed them for a purpose in our life? Is He not still in control?
Nothing catches Him off guard! We can certainly trust Him to work out
all the "details"! We all have seasons of our lives when
circumstances aren't the best--we just have to trust the Lord to help
us do the best we can and to "fill in any gaps".

He has used the trials to help *mold* me into the person that I
should be...patience comes from overcoming trials, from learning not
to allow our circumstances to determine our attitudes, but instead
yielding to the Holy Spirit and the fruit of the Spirit and not the
fruit of flesh! We are inadequate at times, but GOD isn't! He
promises to use us to minister to our children and He will enable us
to care for their needs if we will just trust Him.

Sometimes when things get out of whack, we call a family meeting and
lay out the problems and prayerfully discuss solutions and enlist
everyone's help. It needs to be made clear that this is not
just "Mom's problem" but everyone needs to pitch in and work together
as a family.

If we or our kids are stressed out, fussy and exhausted, something
has to give! We have to take time to examine the situation as
objectively as possible. Get to the root of the problem. Then trust
God for wisdom to fix it. Ignoring it and hoping it will resolve
itself won't work!

It's amazing how you can feel all overwhelmed and bogged down only to
dig through all the stuff you're going through and find out the root
of the problem is something you hadn't considered before...like if
the kids' attitudes are straightened out, your homeschooling will be
less of a burden and more of a joy! You can live without catching up
with the laundry or having a spotless house, but when you have
disobedient, grumpy, uncooperative kids, you want to RUN AWAY from
home! THAT is what needs to be worked on first! Or maybe you're not
getting enough rest because of too many commitments--simplify your
life! Then everything else will fall into place as you trust the Lord
for wisdom and direction.

Now for some practical suggestions--how about getting the kids
motivated so that even if you are especially busy, the older ones can
continue doing their work on their own and even help supervise the
younger ones?

When I had small children and had to "homeschool from the couch or
bed" (or perhaps from a rocking chair with a new baby or sick child),
I often set up a little table with chairs right beside me so the
younger ones could spend quiet time coloring or doing "school work"
nearby. It's helpful to keep some boxes of "quiet" toys and
educational games in storage just to bring out or rotate on
challenging days. It's also VERY helpful to consistently work on
Biblical child training principles BEFORE you experience trials so
that you only have to tell your little one once to do something and
he will obey without delay!

Homeschooling gives us flexibility in teaching our children, on days
we don't accomplish much "academically", then we can take time in the
early evening to go over something or make it up on the weekends. Or
use the summer to work on any weak areas. It also helps to find ways
for the kids to learn "painlessly" through interesting hobbies,
fascinating books, wholesome PBS TV or videos, computer software,
educational games, etc. Then they're still enjoying learning even if
you had to stay up all night with a sick child and can't even
function well enough to put a complete sentence together!

In some ways the past two years have been the most difficult of my
life but God has NEVER let me down, He has *carried* me through it
all and given me the grace I needed so that regardless of the
circumstances at times, I still have been able to enjoy my family and
minister to their needs. Sometimes not physically as much because of
some health trials, but always emotionally and spiritually.

What God has given me to share in this area doesn't come out of a
life that has been perfect and without trials, but from a life that
has meant trusting Jesus in the midst of the trials, focusing on His
Word instead of all the circumstances and seeing Him ALWAYS faithful!
The Lord wants to encourage us all to come to Him when we are weary,
when we are in trials, in fact, ALL the time! He delights in our
dependence upon Him. Even when it seems as though darkness is all
around, HE will be our light and lead us in His way.

"Why do you say, Oh Jacob, and speak, O Israel: "My way is hidden
from the Lord and my just claim is passed over by my God"? Have you
not known? Have you not heard? The everlasting God, the Lord, the
Creator of the ends of the earth, neither faints nor is weary. His
understanding is unsearchable. He gives power to the weak, and to
those who have no might He increases strength. Even the youths shall
faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall, but those
who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up
with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall
walk and not faint. " Isaiah 40:27-31

"...count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that
the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have
its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking
nothing. If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to
all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But
let him ask in faith, with no doubting..." James 1:2-6

Oh that we might all look to Him for our strength and wisdom!

©Copyright 1997 by Tamara Eaton
http://www.gocin.com/homeschool/week5.htm

3. Homeschooling Chronically Ill Kids
Elissa Wahl

Illnesses, disabilities…they can affect mom, dad and/or child. When
kids are sick, does schoolwork REALLY need to be their priority?
Making sure you have your Dr's excuse on hand while you have to
report in for chemo; doing homebound work, to stay in your assigned
grade with all your friends…are these things we should be doing with
what precious time we have?

While our baby was sick, we were placed on the Hemotology/Oncology
floor of the hospital. While I did not ask every parent, the few kids
I did talk to, were on "homebound", studying at home under the
school's supervision. It hurt my heart to hear them talk of it.

We had the opportunity to meet the greatest, Spirit filled family…one
daughter was undergoing chemo. She was the most beautiful teen girl…
her presence filled the room. She continued to go to school…in
actuality LOVED school, her friends, it was her life…studied for
finals while receiving chemo…and then she died 2 months later.

I am not suggesting every sick child be pulled out to homeschool…but
if the means are there, and the parent willing….Sadly, our society as
a whole, doesn't think of homeschooling as a viable option...it
likely ISNT the first thing to pop into someone's head when given a
terminal diagnosis. I would hasten to say, it isn't even in the top
50 things.

Homeschooling, to a parent of a terminally ill child, might seem like
more work, more stress, more burden. If we could help people see,
learning doesn't have to be all scope and sequence, all from
textbooks, all in lecture form, pre-typed out by Mrs. Teacher, the
night before.

I would LOVE to encourage you, as parents. Homeschooling can help
bring a family together, help unite, help siblings be part of the
medical process, instead of merely observers.

Learning how your body functions, how medicines work, how technology
helps, roles of different nurses, and doctor specialties, it's all
learning. The "basics" can be learned using your experiences,
whatever they may be.

Whether your children are healthy, or ill, please cherish every
moment you have with them.

Elissa

4. Some Links

Homeschooling Chronically Ill Kids

EZBoard, Homeschooling with Cancer

Homeschooling When Mom is Ill

Beyond Surviving Homeschooling

Has a whole host of links..sick moms, kids, email loops…

5. Live and Learn Unschooling Conference Info

School's Out Support's
Live & Learn Unschooling Conference Update

The Early Bird Deadline for registration is right around the corner!
Please get your registration to us by 15 August 2002---in time to
take advantage of this special rate!

This will be a wonderful opportunity to learn how learning happens,
to erase any doubts about unschooling, and to have a great time with
other unschoolers from around the country!
Don't miss it!

Be inspired by Sandra Dodd, Anne Ohman, Joyce Fetteroll, Lisa Bugg,
Ned Vare & Luz Shosie, Fiona Hutchison and others!

Fun for the whole family!
All presentations, funshops, and activities will be open to all ages--
-No Age Descrimination!

Payments will be accepted by Check, Money Order, or PayPal.
Don't hesitate! Fill out your form today!

Click here to go directly to the form!
http://schoolsoutsupport.org/form.html
Schools Out Support:Registration

And don't forget the hotel registration either!
Clarion Town House Deadline for the conference rate and availability
is 15 September 2002.
http://schoolsoutsupport.org/clarion.html

Kelly Lovejoy, Coordinator
Schools Out Support
mailto:coordinator@schoolsoutsupport.org
803-776-4849
Fax: 803-776-7006
http://www.schoolsoutsupport.org

7. Closing Letter

Well, we pray that this issue has touched you...please feel free to
forward this ezine to any who might be interested.

We can't, and never intended, to publish this ezine all on our own…we
would love submissions of any form. We have no real guidelines, other
than nothing anti-Christian. Any book reviews, cool trips taken,
poems written, anything goes. Please help us keep this going.

Until next time,
Be blessed you all!

Elissa Wahl
Teri Brown

Issue #28, Feb 4, 2002

Seedling

Nurturing our children in the freedom of Christ
Issue #28, Feb 4, 2002
Sr. Editor & Publisher: Elissa Wahl
Assistant Editor: Teri Brown

IN THIS ISSUE

1. Welcome from the Editor
2. A Few Words About Unschooling Math by Luz Shosie
3. PECANS = MATH by Carma Paden
4. Christian Waldorf Parenting, Q&A with Teri Brown
5. Math Links
6. Closing letter from the editor
7. Subscription Information
8. Reprint Information

1. Welcome from the editor

Hi all, hope this newsletter is received in the manner it was
sent ... in love and through God!

First, a head's up: We won't be sending out a Seedling in March. I am
going to be spending some time with my family, and they have no
computer!! I know, dark ages, but it will be a blessing.
While we have probably already touched on the subject of Unschooling
Math, here in Seedling, I feel we can never talk about it enough.
Over and over, when discussing unschooling with folks, their big
concern is "but what about math". Hopefully after this issue you can
understand better that math is IN our lives!

Please read on, and we pray you are blessed!

2. A Few Words About Unschooling Math
By Luz Shosie

FREEDOM TO CHOOSE: Fingers & toes, pattern blocks, two by two, 4X4,
narrow gauge, ruler, tape measure, scale, model, profit (loss), earn,
spend, save, interest, checkbook, recipe, batting average, Captain
May I? soccer, baseball, basketball, love, fault, birdie, strike,
spare, first and ten, penalty box, map, compass, Pokémon, Candyland,
Monopoly, Go, Chess, Sorry!, dominoes, dice, poker chips, Bridge,
Crazy Eights, Go Fish, graphs, charts, Origami, mileage, knit 1 purl
2, weave, weigh, motor, engine, pulley, ratio, odds, chances,
statistics, average, more or less, even, odd, yards, N scale,
circumference, volume, area, score, speed limit, braking distance,
fourth dimension, sixth sense, Indy 500, build, plan, rate, estimate,
predict, revise, garden, yardage, height, depth, angle, trade,
straight, curve, spiral, high tide, low ball, tempo, quarter note,
half pound, temperature, weather forecast, bargain, budget, price,
half off, plus tax, sequence, seven percent solution, hundred percent
markup, latitude, longitude, light years, escape velocity, precession
of the equinoxes (oh Best Beloved), range, set, stitch, sort, size,
tally, calculator, plot, dozen, gain, lose, exactly, approximately,
income, borrow, allowance, loan, design, diagram, knots, beads, gear
ratio, minutes, degrees, timer, computer, fathoms, grid, meters,
Anno, The Number Devil, half pipe, quarter turn, double time, full
bore, safe speed, turning radius, blocks, stacking, nesting, measure
up, scale down, abacus, credit, debit, limit, infinity, first class,
third rate, equal share, short shrift, waxing, waning, phase, rhythm,
balance, cycle, magnitude, perspective, value, graph, apogee,
perigee, frequency, rotation, revolution, dollars, cents, pennies,
wooden nickels, full deck, full house, double helix, time zone,
millennium, program, binary, generation, epoch, era, nano second,
code, puzzle, calendar, fiscal year, progression, midpoint, watts,
lumens, horsepower, ohms, Great Circle Route, 52 Pickup, '55 Chevy,
Hundredth Monkey, altitude, make change, Lego, shopping, Tangrams,
Battleships, Fibonacci series, checkers, speed, height, width,
length, volume, latitude, sphere, output, displacement, schedule,
time limit, collection, add up, count down, age, four score, last
full measure, census, Are we there yet? dance, a bushel and a peck,
postage, efficient operation, elegant solution, gigabytes, google,
Powers of Ten, increase, decrease, supply & demand, links, contour
lines, Great Divide, Bingo! group, air pressure, count down, stock
market, daily log, rent, bills, discretionary income, arc, geometric
proportions, geologic time, navigation, Dewey Decimal System #510,
stone circle, dosage, grams/ounces, meters/feet, 16 mm, 22 caliber,
shutter speed, f stop, 20 pound test, dot-to-dot, orienteering,
yeild, squared, low bid, etc. etc. etc.

Luz is co-leader of Unschoolers Unlimited in CT
http://borntoexplore.org/unschool/index.html

3. PECANS = MATH
By Carma Paden

"Look, Mom, I broke my pecan in half."

"Mmm-hmmm. Does it taste better that way?"

"Now I broke both halves in half. Now I eat them!"

"Wow! Do you know that when you break a half in half, it's called a
fourth?"

"A fourth?"

"Yeah, look. I'll break this pecan in half, and then both halves in
half. How many pieces do I have?"

"One, two, three, four."

"Right, four. So each piece is one-FOURth. Get it?"

Without responding, she eats the pecan. Okay, maybe it's a little over
her head; she only just turned five. We eat a few more pecans, then .

"Look, Mom! This pecan is in thirds!"

Sure enough, there in her hand is one pecan in three pieces.

So does my daughter, at five years and three months of age, understand
fractions? No. But is she gaining a good basic understanding of real
world math? Yes.

Will she remember this tomorrow? Unlikely. But has she gained a
concrete experience of fractions that she can build on when fractions
show up again in her young life? Absolutely.

Did I set out to teach her fractions? No. Did I use a concrete
opportunity to help her put a name to something she is beginning to
understand intuitively? Yes.

Will I run out and find some fraction worksheets to help her build on
her knowledge? Not on your life. Will I keep an eye out for more
concrete, real-world experiences that I can use to help her expand her
own world? You bet.

Not bad for a Christmas Eve morning, sitting in your mom's lap eating
pecans, and wearing your dad's sweatpants as a shawl.

~~~~~~~~~
Carma Paden has been unschooling for six years. Her children are 6, 4,
and 3 months. More essays and homeschooling information on her website
at http://www.users.qwest.net/~carmapaden/ .

4. Christian Waldorf Parenting, Q&A with Teri Brown

I chanced upon a wonderful website one day and wanted to share what I
found with our readers. Natalie.Elpert has a website and email list
for Christian homeschoolers who use the Waldorf method. No matter
what you may have heard about this method of homeschooling, the
application of it in Christian homes is beautiful.
--------------------

Q: Tell us a little bit about the Waldorf Philosophy.

A: The Waldorf philosophy is one of beauty and art as well as
starting the academics at a later age to give children a full and
rich childhood. This education includes lots of singing, handwork and
creating textbooks with beautiful drawings so each subject is more
meaningful.

Q: Like Unschooling, there are many Christians who believe that you
can't be a Christian and Practice Waldorf, how do you answer this?

A: Many Christians are afraid of Waldorf, thinking it is inherently
evil because of its founder, Rudolf Steiner, who delved into New Age
ideas. However, I always tell everyone that it is very easy to take
ANY curriculum and add Waldorf touches to make it more beautiful and
enjoyable for the child. I make my homeschool Christian Waldorf by
little things like putting a statue of Jesus & Mary on my nature
table, along with pinecones and silk fairies. I don't sing songs to
thank the trees & earth for food - I go directly to the source and
thank God Himself. I talk about God wih my children constantly and
we enjoy using our beeswax crayons to draw pictures of Jesus with
little children and other Christian subjects.

Q: What are the differences between waldorf and unschooling?

A: Christian unschooling doesn't have any method in mind when
studying a topic whereas ChristianWaldorf will usually try to
implement the method with the studies. For example, I may be
teaching my girls religion and to do so I will implement Waldorf ways
by making a main lesson book with beautiful colored pencils, perhaps
making a biblical scene with beeswax figures and not testing my girls
(Waldorf schools don't test and they don't have report cards - only
year end reports written in poetry form and illustrated with
beautiful colors). I will be doing a great deal of unschooling in
the future but whatever we study we will record it in a main lesson
book and illustrate it as beautifully as we are able.

Q: Where can our readers go to learn more about Christian Waldorf?

A: Your readers are encouraged to view my website or join my mailing
list to find out more about Christian Waldorf parenting & educating.
I started this list 2 years ago because the typical Waldorfian seemed
to be hostile to me as a Christian. As far as I know, my site & list
are the only places on the web that discuss Christian Waldorf - we
are a small sect but growing as more Christians realize it is
possible to use some of Waldorf to make their own curriculums more
creative.

Natalie Elpert has 2 daughters, ages 7 1/2 and 5 ½. In her spare
time, Natalie is a confirmed bookworm and can always be found either
reading or writing in her journal. She tries to make her home life as
similar to "Little House on the Prairie" as possible with many old-
fashioned ideas and her most pressing goal is to keep her children as
wholesome as possible.

Christian Waldorf

CHRISTIAN WALORF SWAP BOARD

4. Unschooling Math Links

Developing an Unschooling Non-Curriculum – Math

Unschooling Math…collection of responses to the question of "how to
unschool math"

You Can Unschool Math

Natural math

Some Cool Math Sites

Math Forum: Internet Math Hunt

MathStories.com
Word Problems

Ricks Math
Worksheets and problems from K-high school

Roller Coaster Lesson Plan

Mudd Math Fun Facts

Math Baseball

6. Closing Letter

Well, we pray that this issue has touched you...please feel free to
forward this ezine to any who might be interested.

While visiting my family, we will all be going to Williamsburg, VA.
In April's issue, I'll tantalize you with facts about Williamsburg,
and colonial times. Lets work on unschooling history for next issue.
If you feel led to submit an article, a link, a book review, anything
at all, please email Unschoolr@aol.com Any cool relaxed fun project
you have done to help learn history, a neat book, anything!

Until next time,
Be blessed you all!

Elissa Wahl
Teri Brown

7. Subscription Information

Subscribe at : http://yahoogroups.com/community/Seedling or email
Unschoolr@aol.com

Unsubscribe at: http://yahoogroups.com/community/Seedling or email
Unschoolr@aol.com

8. Reprint Information

Individual authors herein retain their own copyrights. You may
freely copy this entire newsletter or material from this newsletter
in other nonprofit publications (unless otherwise marked in the
article), but you MUST include the author's name and this entire
notice:

"Reprinted with permission of Elissa Wahl from Seedling, a
Christian Unschooling E-Zine. For a free subscription, send
any e-mail message to Seedling-subscribe@yahoogroups.com or visit
URL: http://www.ChristianUnschooling.org"

Issue #27, Jan 1, 2002

Seedling

Nurturing our children in the freedom of Christ
Issue #27, Jan 1, 2002
Sr. Editor & Publisher: Elissa Wahl
Assistant Editor: Teri Brown
Contributing Editor: Angel Dyke

IN THIS ISSUE

1. Welcome from the Editor
2. An Unschooling Family Story
3. A Mothers Prayer, by Andrea Ballard
4. Expanded Horizons or the Quirky Things We Do by Teri Brown
5. Algebra Videos and workbook
6. Closing letter from the editor
7. Subscription Information
8. Reprint Information

1. Welcome from the editor

Hi all, hope this newsletter is received in the manner it was
sent ... in love and through God!

This month's issue is a hodgepodge with no theme...sometimes I have
enough submissions to make it thematic...other times not. Sounds
like unschooling in my house! Often a huge spurt in an
interest...then a low time where we just do "stuff" with no real
theme. Always learning, always growing.

We just took a trip to the Grand Canyon. The sights and things we saw
and learned, have really impacted us. We have SO much to learn....so
little time...about mesas and buttes, geographical formations, Major
Powell, the Anasazi, petroglyphs, cliff dwellings, mules, lions and
tigers and bears ohmy!

Seriously, there is much in nature, much that God gave us to learn
from...

Mark 13:27-29 "Now learn this lesson from the fig tree: As soon as
its twigs get tender and its leaves come out, you know that summer is
near.

A "simple" trip to the Grand Canyon left us feeling small, but in awe
of God's greatness. Think about some themes in nature you can learn
from....some local sights and attractions are sure to wield many
hours of learning.

Please read on, and we pray you are blessed!

2. An Unschooling Family Story
Sara Miller

We have homeschooled for approx. 10 years, and as each year
passed, I found myself moving from Konos Unit studies, Charlotte Mason
methods, other curriculums-to what THE KIDS WANT to study!
We own a family greenhouse operation, and the last several years, as I
took the kids portfolios to a certified teacher to be assessed (Ohio's
law), I found myself asking her, "How many years can I continue to use
the GREENHOUSE for Science?" Yet, I knew in my heart, that our
learning experiences far outweighed "science".

Our 18 yr old son did not really care for the plants. We moved him to
the office. He became "manager" at 13, setting up our computer,
designed data bases for the business, paid the bills, etc. I knew
that we were on to a good thing when I saw the 4" thick computer
books he ordered from bookclubs and checked out of the library. He
has worked at 2 computer businesses, 3 weeks in a tax office, a
hospital billing dept., and is currently at a local gov't agency,
doing interviews for people needing housing. (They hired him on a few
weeks before his 18th birthday, didn't even think to ask his age-they
don't hire under 18-and when they did ask, the manager wasn't sure
what to do. Impressive resume!) His future plans include a local
college and full steam ahead in his own computer business.

Our oldest daughter, now 16 1/2, is our top salesperson in the
business. She was 8 when the greenhouse opened. She loves people and
spent many hours helping them with their planting needs. Over and
over, I hear- "Where's the red-head? I want her to help me!" She has
been the child that has thanked us the most for keeping her home
where she could "really learn"! She works part time as activity aide
in a nursing home. Interestingly, she was just a volunteer there,
when management approached her and wanted her to seriously consider
letting them put her on their payroll! She mentioned lately, that
when my husband and I get old and want to retire, she will "move
into" our house and run the business.

Our next daughter is almost 13. She is my "dreamer", surprised me by
running the cash register last Spring and was in charge of selling the
mum crop this fall. She told me recently that she cannot WAIT until we
open up again in March. She loves to sing, and asked us if she could
practice and perform in "Messiah" this winter. A church, where she
knew no one, yet no one was a stranger. An interesting tidbit, she
met several homeschoolers in the 135 member choir, some of them WHOLE
families.

Our third daughter is 10. I had to laugh when I saw "The Porch Swing"
listed as a website! ( http://www.tumon.com/porchswing/ ) We tease
Caitlin about her swinging. She spent so many hours on that thing.
Mind running, mouth running...performing one person plays and
composing stories. We remodeled this fall, made the porch into a
bedroom, so she took to the swing in the yard. Now, everyone that
goes by (we live on a highway) can see her. I have even had customers
comment that she must like her swing! She informs us that she "will
be married on a porch swing"! After she writes her book, of course.

Our fourth daughter is 6. She is learning to read. A big box of dress
up clothes provides hours of imagination and fun.They have a room in
the basement where they "play" school. They invite the homeschooled
neighbor boy over. I discover that the older ones have taught the
younger one some addition. Wait a minute, I haven't even let her do
much with counting m&m's yet!

My children have taught me so much on this journey. It has been the
greatest reward in this life, to see them mature in the Lord, to
pursue their passions, to discover their uniqueness...

Unschooling has been rich, rich, rich...

Sara Miller, Miller Flowers, Greenville, OH

3. A Mothers Prayer
Andrea Hope Ballard

A teachable spirit
And self-control
Peace and humility
A gentle soul

Protection from evil
A prudent wife
A steadfast heart
A Godly life

To pray for my children
An awesome task
Give what they need
Is all I ask

Not wealth or fame
Or worldly desires
But place in their souls
Spiritual fires

Please open their hearts
To the truth of You
Make them your men
Faithful and true

Give what they need
To make them strong
Not what they want
If their wants are wrong

And You alone know
Teach me what to pray
That my sons might be
Godly men one day.

I have several poems posted at my website:
http://www.angelfire.com/art/divineencouragement/

My hope is that these poems will be of encouragement to other moms
out there who are homeschool and that they will inspire moms to open
God's Word to seek further encouragement.

Sincerely,
Andrea Hope Ballard

4. Expanded Horizons or the Quirky Things We Do.
Teri Brown

"Your family finds the strangest things to do," a friend once
commented to me. Well, she was right. Whether that is due to being in
the right place at the right time or divine intervention, I can't
say, but I have another theory. We find strange things to do because
we are open to the strange, quirky and the unusual. By living our
life the unschooling way, my children have been exposed to some of
the most wonderful things, more than many children get in a life time.

A trip to an herb farm, found by attending a gardening club meeting,
led to a class. Soon we were learning the ins and outs of candle
making and constructing herb and cheese pizzas. This class led to
another class the next day, given to us free by the instructor, and
we learned the secrets of forming a willow trellis. The herb farm
became one of our favorite places to go, to share tea, or growing
tips with the owner. They have a wonderful shop in the basement where
we poke around in corners, checking out new candle molds, handmade
soaps and sniffing fragrant oil essences.

Not strange enough? Here's another example. A magazine article led to
a trip to the library for a movie on clowning. My children were
hooked. They practiced by themselves for a bit and by chance a
friend mentioned an acquaintance who was a professional clown. That
led to clown classes with a woman who was Vice President of the local
clowning association. Which led to Rose City Clowns. Soon we were
attending workshops and board meetings run completely by clowns. Try
sitting with a straight face as clowns discuss new business and the
latest treasurer's report! The last meeting we attended had a
workshop on puppetry. A professional puppeteer took us on a worldwide
history tour of the world using puppets. We handled the type of
puppets used in ancient Egypt and looked in awe at black-market
Indonesian puppets which until recently had been banned from leaving
the country. Both kids were delighted with the puppets and I foresee
puppetry in our future.

Being open to adventure and learning has led us down some odd roads.
One thing leads to another, often, it's just as much my interests
that lead us there as the children's. Sometimes it's sheer nuttiness
that takes us down a different path. Take the knights in the park. We
were driving down the road and my husband said, "Look at that!" He
quickly pulled over and we watched in awe as what looked like the
knights of the round table fought duels before our eyes. We hopped
out of the car to get a better look and before I knew it I was
chatting with several knights around a picnic table. We are
scheduling a full exhibition for my homeschool group in the next few
months. Now my children are checking out books on the medieval times
and ancient weapons.

We do some very quirky things as a family, I think most unschoolers
do. It's being alert to the opportunities that the world has. They
are almost limitless in their diversity and scope. The trick is being
able to spot them and to have the time and inclination to follow up
on whatever opportunity might present itself. If you do that, you
too, will soon be leading the often quirky unschooling life.

Teri Brown

5. Algebra Videos and workbook

We are homeschool parents of 8 kids - 5 down, 3 to go. My wife and I
have been teaching both inside and outside of schools for over 20
years.

We have found that very often a crisis develops when homeschoolers
reach the level of algebra. The subject can be difficult without the
help of a teacher, and often the parents have long forgotten their
algebra and are stumped when their kids need help.

I have prepared a series of videos that teaches ALGEBRA and
is specifically designed for homeschooling. If you would be
interested in knowing more about these videos, please e-mail me at:
uncledan@homespun4homeschoolers.com

I would like to invite you to visit my web site as well:
http://www.homespun4homeschoolers.com

I would be happy to e-mail a copy of my 180-page "Algebra
Workbook" file as a "free gift" to anyone who so requests by e-
mailing me at the same address:
uncledan@homespun4homeschoolers.com

The "Workbook" shows exactly what is covered in the video course, but
is a valuable tool in itself and a great "freebie".

Sincerely,
Daniel Suttin

7. Subscription Information

Subscribe at : http://yahoogroups.com/community/Seedling or email
Unschoolr@aol.com

Unsubscribe at: http://yahoogroups.com/community/Seedling or email
Unschoolr@aol.com

Issue #26, Dec 11, 2001

Seedling

Nurturing our children in the freedom of Christ
Issue #26, Dec 11, 2001
Sr. Editor & Publisher: Elissa Wahl
Assistant Editor: Teri Brown
Contributing Editor: Angel Dyke

IN THIS ISSUE

1. Welcome from the Editor
2. Faith Walking Through High School by Barb Shelton
3. Some Options Elissa Wahl
4. Links
5. Book Review
6. Closing letter from the editor
7. Subscription Information
8. Reprint Information

1. Welcome from the editor

Hi all, hope this newsletter is received in the manner it was
sent ... in love and through God!

Ohhh, how I pray you all are not being hit by nasty illnesses! Some
viruses are going around here and keeping folks bedridden.

Luckily, I can see we are learning new things, even as we lay in bed
watching HGTV. Sometimes seeing the education, the learning, is
hard...especially for new homeschooling parents. Now, add that worry
to the worry and self-doubts of "teaching a high schooler".

Many of you have asked me to address homeschooling high schoolers. It
IS being done! And, it is being done WELL!

I am confident this issue will point out enough resources to get you
started, and will give you self-assurance.

Psalm 29:11 The LORD gives strength to his people; the LORD blesses
his people with peace.

Hopefully, you too, will be at peace.

Please read on, and we pray you are blessed!

2. Faith Walking Through High School

by Barb Shelton

Part, if not most of the problem we encounter when we come face-to-
face with the idea of homeschooling through high school is, very
simply, FEAR. Most homeschooling parents I talk with shake in their
boots at the very thought.

Others claim to be fairly fearless, but how they act belies them.
They may not think it's fear, and on the surface it may not feel like
fear, but when they have a hard time making decisions that they think
we have no "authority" to make, and when their biggest "concern"
is "requirements", I submit to you that they are walking in fear, at
least to a certain degree: Fear of college; fear of not measuring up;
fear of gaps (which call "Gapaphobia"); fear of lab science; fear of
not fulfilling requirements; fear of "failing" (us or our kids); fear
of - you name it, we fear it.

Now some of these "fears" are rooted in valid concerns! We want the
best for our kids, and we want them to make it in the world, college,
and whatever the future holds for them. However, what I see over and
over is people who are not only "concerned" about these things, they
are bending over backwards to bow down to them, avoid them, prevent
them, or whatever. The last thing on their minds is asking God what
he might have in Mind for this particular student's "high school
experience." That idea doesn't even dawn on them because their entire
focus is centered on satisfying and complying with the system, making
sure they do will within it. I submit to you that when that is the
whole goal, there is no room for what God might be wanting to do,
other than to maybe see if He says "yay" or "nay" to a particular
curriculum program.

It doesn't have to be all one to the exclusion of the other. But I
guarantee that if your Main Concern isn't seeking God first,
then "the other" will take over completely. God knows exactly what
your student is going to need past high school! But if we "seek first
the Kingdom of God" -- yes, even for high school -- then "all these
[post-graduation] things shall be added unto you." :-)

"But how?!" you ask? God is totally practical! It all boils down to
our walk with Him. It's all supposed to be part of our "faith walk"
with Him! We just get to apply faith to a new area of our lives that
was possibly "uncharted territory" for God only because we hadn't
invited Him in to that territory yet. (And He doesn't miss a thing!)
So the place to start is this: Obedience first; questions later.
Isn't this how it works when we first come to Jesus? We didn't get to
say to Him: "Well, I'm considering becoming a Christian, but first I
need to know a few things: Will I be asked to die for my faith? (If
so, I'm outta here.)" "Will I have to be a missionary? (If so, I'm
outta here.)" "Will I have to be single all my life? (If so, I'm
outta here!)" "Will I have to live by faith? If so, how will You
provide? (And how much? And when? Cold, hard cash preferred.)" "What
if I'm not very good at hearing You at some point along the way? Will
you have a Plan B to bail me out?"...

Nope, we just obeyed and then held on for the ride! Same with high
school! He will lead if we will "be still [and quiet] and know that
He is God"! (and let Him actually be God, to us!) And as far as that
last question, what if I can't hear God: If our heart is truly to
hear and obey Him, He will speak!!! One way or another!! ("My sheep
know my voice, and follow Me.")

Once you have dealt with all these issues, you will then be free to
think and see everything from an entirely different perspective. Not
that everything will now be rosy and you'll be oozing with confidence
(or maybe you will!), but you will be free -- and you will grow in
that freedom as you grow closer to God, and will be able (more and
more) to hear God's voice speaking to your heart for your child. And
you'll probably even do things somewhat differently, at least in
different areas, for each child, because they are unique and have
different futures, different works that "God is preparing (non-
generically) beforehand that they should walk in them." A unique
future warrants a unique education, right?!? Not sure? Just take
God's word for it -- on faith!

Copyright by Barbara Edtl Shelton.
This article is used by permission from the author.
The Shelton's operate a home-based ministry to homeschoolers from
their home in Longview, WA, primarily through the books that Barb has
written.
All of Barb's speaking and writing is on topics of vital interest to
burning-out as well as brand new and wanna-be homeschoolers. Barb's
resources reflect her "lite" approach to homeschooling that is based
on the verse in Matt. 28:11 in which Jesus says "My yoke is easy, my
burden light." With vulnerability, humor, God's Word, Barb's heart is
to inspire parents to pursue God's unique plan for the education
of their children, and she offers much practical help in doing so.
You'll be challenged, irritated, and moved to laugh, cry, think and
re-think your views about education, and best of all, get set free or
freer) in Jesus! They may be contacted via their website:
http://www.homeschooloasis.com

3. Some Options
Elissa Wahl

Well, while I don't yet have a high schooler, I have been researching
options for years! I will share some here, in the hopes that they
afford you ideas and also reassurance.

Video School....Abeka and probably plenty of others, put out video
classes. This is a more expensive option.

Community College....dual enrollment in CC and "high school". Some
states even pay for this. Check out your local requirements,
often "high school" students can take courses at age 15 or
thereabouts, and "graduate" high school, with an associate's degree.
This path is of course great for transferring to a 4-yr college.
Also check into their "virtual campuses". Many credits are being
offered via the internet or local cable providers. There are many
benefits to this...not having to drive to class, being able to do it
more on your time....

Along the same line....high school classes offered by colleges,
through the Internet. ORU offers such a course, University of TX
( http://www.utexas.edu/cee/dec/uths/ ), U of Minn (
http://www.cce.umn.edu/gateway/highschool.shtml ) , Stanford (
http://www-epgy.stanford.edu/ ) , John Hopkins U (
http://www.jhu.edu/summer/pc/ ) This is just a
taste...research!! You will find many more.

Correspondence type schools....that will offer a diploma....Clonlara,
North Atlantic Regional School, American School...

Pre-packaged curriculums...Alpha Omega, Robinson, there are a million
to choose from.

Eclectic/Unschool....use some of this, some of that, real books, real
experiences. Parents issue diploma as the overseers of the education.

Apprentice.....get in on the ground floor of child's career choice.
If interested in being a veterinarian, call local vets and ask if
they can volunteer there....just learn the ropes and advance as able,
eventually for pay. This is also a great way to get businesses to
pay for your continuing education!

Likely, there are options that I havent listed, due to oversight,
unknown options or the unforeseen options that will be greeting our
children in the future years.

4. Links

Learn in Freedom
Site offers lists of colleges that have accepted homeschoolers,
research on socialization, info on learning to read at home and much
more.

Cafi Cohen's Homeschool Teens and College
Articles, message boards, sample college application essays ..a must
see site

Quail Haven's High School Homeschool Links
Chock full of links....sample transcripts, scholarship info, testing
info...so so much to see here!

Clonlara
Relaxed private school covering, issues diploma.

North Atlantic
Regional Schools
Private school, issues diploma

American School of Correspondence

Oral Roberts University Homeschool College Program
College courses through correspondence while finishing high school

collegeboard.com
Planning for college, taking the tests, getting into college....this
site has it all!

SAT Question of the Day

CollegeNet.com
college searches, financial aid, application info, scholarship info
and more

Diplomas

Diplomas and/or Transcripts

High School Reading List

5. Book Review
by Elissa Wahl

"And What About College?" by Cafi Cohen

Well, by now you should know, I'm not going to review a book for you
all, if it's not helpful!
This is actually my second time reading this book....I am sure if you
buy it you will get more than one reading from it too..it is that
informative.

The author starts the book telling us her story, her beginnings in
homeschooling and her mistake of not keeping a daily or even monthly
journal. The result of that oversight, was this book. She wants to
help other understand how to record, what to record and how to get
colleges to look at your child's individual achievements.

While some space is devoted to testing and scope and sequences, much
of the book revolves around record keeping, turning those records
into a transcript and presenting a whole package to the college of
choice, complete with cover letter, resume and transcript.

The latter half of the book may be the most practical. The appendix
spans 65 pages and includes samples of transcripts, homeschool course
descriptions, cover letters, resumes, application essays and loads
of resources.

This is a good book for new homeschoolers as Ms. Cohen explains some
terms such as unit studies, unschooling etc, and also puts fears to
rest that our kids can go to college if they so choose...but also for
the seasoned homeschool parent, who is just unsure how to present
their child's education in the most concise, yet interesting manner.

I highly recommend this book, not just as a library loan, but as a
keeper!

6. Closing Letter

Well, we pray that this issue has touched you...please feel free to
forward this ezine to any who might be interested.

If you feel led to submit an article, a link, a book review, anything
at all, please email Unschoolr@aol.com

Back issues are available both online at our website:
http://www.inspirit.com.au/unschooling/
and at yahoogroups
http://www.yahoogroups.com/group/Seedling

Until next time,
Be blessed you all!

Elissa Wahl
Teri Brown
Angel Dyke

7. Subscription Information

Subscribe at : http://yahoogroups.com/community/Seedling or email
Unschoolr@aol.com

Unsubscribe at: http://yahoogroups.com/community/Seedling or email
Unschoolr@aol.com

Issue #25, Nov 7, 2001

Seedling

Nurturing our children in the freedom of Christ
Issue #25, Nov 7, 2001
Sr. Editor & Publisher: Elissa Wahl
Assistant Editor: Teri Brown
Contributing Editor: Angel Dyke

IN THIS ISSUE

1. Welcome from the Editor
2. Sample End of Year Evaluation Summary
3. Announcements
4. Links
5. Book Review
6. Closing letter from the editor
7. Subscription Information
8. Reprint Information

1. Welcome from the editor

Hi all, hope this newsletter is received in the manner it was
sent ... in love and through God!

My computer ate, yes ATE and digested, never to be seen again, this
months Seedling. As I was sitting here head in hands, trying to
recall what I had written, I remembered my opening letter...about
gratefulness and HOPE when there doesn't seem much to be grateful
about.

Instead of rewriting that part, I will just share the applicable
scripture!

Job 11:13-18 Zophar Urges Job to Repent

13 "If you would prepare your heart,
And stretch out your hands toward Him;
14 If iniquity were in your hand, and you put it far away,
And would not let wickedness dwell in your tents;
15 Then surely you could lift up your face without spot;
Yes, you could be steadfast, and not fear;
16 Because you would forget your misery,
And remember it as waters that have passed away,
17 And your life would be brighter than noonday.
Though you were dark, you would be like the morning.
18 And you would be secure, because there is hope;
Yes, you would dig around you, and take your rest in safety.

Clearly, even when things look bad, we are to try to draw nearer to
God...and I take this to heart in learning too! I often hear parents
frustration with their homeschool, some get so discouraged as to
wonder if school would be an answer, and if they are even able to
parent!! It need not get this bad! Don't let the bad times draw you
in and change your focus...focus on Him.

Please read on, and we pray you are blessed!

2. Sample End of Year Evaluation Summary

This is an actual evaluation summary of a 6th grade boy, used in a
portfolio review in the state of FL. A copy of this summary is also
found in our book.

Language Arts-
David has enjoyed reading all three of the Harry Potter books,
several times each. He was also interested in the Animorphs series
of books and read several of them in the fall. As a challenge, he
read The Hobbit by JRR Tolkien. His tastes run to the fantasy and
science fiction genre. Grammar is done orally, with corrections made
by either myself, his dad or his grandparents. During our many trips
either in the car or on a jet, we use Mad Libs for reinforcing parts
of speech. We usually challenge him to find interesting and unusual
words for the Mad Libs. David has also used the Comprehensive
Curriculum of Basic Skills - Grade 6 by American Education Publishing
for some other language Arts materials such as homographs, reading
comprehension, spelling, thinking skills, punctuation and grammar.
Another source for reading comprehension was a booklet called High-
Interest Reading by Walter Hazen. David read the non-fiction
stories in this book which brought about discussion and further
study.

Math-
David used the Comprehensive Curriculum of Basic Skills to sharpen
his math skills. He also used consumer math and math challenges that
he set up himself. David is very quick with math and has an
intuitive sense of numbers. He likes to challenge himself with math
questions and we like to challenge him ourselves. Most math is done
orally as he can do most in his head. He has rolled coins and added
up the result for one of our car trips. David also likes to figure
out grocery totals and change. Many times fractions have been
learned through cooking with either doubling or halving recipes.
David is fascinated with banking and how banks work. We have spent
many days discussing the banking system and how money is used. Our
family tiled about 500 square feet of our house, and David was shown
how we came to the amount of square feet using geometry. David has a
high interest in magic tricks and has been learning some of the
*tricks* in the book Mathemagic by Raymond Blum.

Science-
David has a high interest in science. We used many science
experiment kits including Stinky, Smelly, Hold-Your-Nose Science by
Scholastic, and Icky, Sticky, Foamy, Slimy, Ooey, Gooey Chemistry
also from Scholastic. We also used Physical Science by Frank White
trying several experiments including dancing macaroni, bouncing eggs
and dissolving a nail. Many of our trips have also added to the
science including a trip to the Florida Aquarium in Tampa, the
National Aquarium in Baltimore, A guided nature walk on the shores of
the bay on Cape Cod by the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History, a Self-
guided tour of the Massachusetts Audubon Society Wellfleet Bay
Wildlife Sanctuary, A day-long visit to Drumhaller and the Royal
Tyrrell Museum in Alberta, Canada a world-class dinosaur museum and
our passes to Sea World. While in Calgary, Alberta we drove to Banff
where we saw coyote and elk on the side of the road. We also drove
to Lake Louise where we were able to see the three glaciers on the
mountain. The drive to Drumhaller took us to several canyons on the
seemingly flat farmland. We were also able to see several more
coyotes on the drive to Edmonton and we saw magpies for the first
time. David volunteers at the Orlando Science Center.

History-
David has continued his interest in Ancient Egypt and we have visited
the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto, Ontario with an emphasis on the
Egyptian collection. This collection included actual mummies. We
also added to the Egyptian study with a tour of the Egyptian
collection at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. This
collection included a restored Temple of Dendur which had graffiti
from the 19th century explorers and adventurers who had discovered
it. Another interest of study was ancient man and we used the book,
Step Into… The Stone Age by Charlotte Hurdman. This book had many
hands-on activities including making a hunting spear and clay pots.
We did a brief study of ancient Greece which will continue on for the
next school year. Another area of study was about the Vikings where
we read the book Step Into… The Viking World by Philip Steele. This
was also enriched by the TV program on NOVA called The Vikings. We
had visited one area the Vikings had landed, Newfoundland, and the
kids were very interested in this aspect. Our history education was
enriched with visits to the Royal Tyrrell Museum in Alberta, Canada;
the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City; and Royal Ontario
Museum in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. A more modern *history* was
discovered when we saw the play "The Diary of Anne Frank". This led
to many discussions of Hitler and WWII. The evening after viewing
the play my parents had a very good friend over who was Jewish and
from Germany and lost his whole family to the concentration camps.
This led to some interesting and very sad discussion.

Geography-
Our Study of geography stems from our travel. We use the Rand
McNally Road Atlas of the US and Canada, and the Rand McNally Premier
World Atlas. Other sources of geography comes from The National
Geographic magazine and maps. We usually buy a map of every area we
plan on visiting and consult that map often. Both of the kids are
good map readers and have been our navigators on many trips. We have
added to our history study with a study of the geography of the
area. Our trips have included a driving trip to New Jersey then on
to New Hampshire and the Lake Winnipesaukee area and on again to Cape
Cod Massachusetts. Our next trip was a flight to Toronto, Ontario
and several visits to the city and suburbs. In December we flew to
Calgary, Alberta and drove to Banff, Lake Louise, Drumhaller, and
Edmonton to the world's largest enclosed mall. In May we visited New
Jersey and New York with a visit to New York City using maps of the
city and the bus system. The kids also helped us find our way in
upstate New York during a severe thunderstorm.

Computer Science -
David has a very high interest in computers. We have a peer to peer
network in our house and David has been involved in the
building/rebuilding of the computers in our house. He
installs/uninstalls software, uses Windows 98, shares files with the
peer to peer network, and troubleshoots his own computer. He is
currently in the middle of a Visual Basic programming class being
taught at home through the South-Western company.

PE-
David swims in our pool, rollerblades, boogie boards at the beach and
has done some light hiking both in Florida and in the snow in Banff.
While in Calgary he took an hour and a half lesson on snowboarding
and went snowboarding again the next day.

Miscellaneous Activities/Classes-
David was involved in training our puppy. We all took the puppy
training class through Friends Fur Life.

David attended the beginning Sign Language class through Homeschool
Network and used the book, Signing Illustrated, the Complete Learning
Guide by Mickey Flodin. David and his sister use sign often with
each other, mostly finger spelling.

David is the Pokemon *answer man* for his friends and has also helped
his friends with computer or computer-game related problems.

David has also begun volunteering for the Orlando Science Center on
Wednesdays from 9am to 4pm.

We have visited the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, Blue
Springs State Park to see manatees, Wekiwa Springs State Park and
Hontoon Island State Park.

3. Announcements

Elissa and I have always had a lot in common. We love being
Christians, we love unschooling, and we love to help other parents
and children find the joy that comes from Spirit-led, delight
directed learning. This is one of the reasons we wrote the book and
we are in humble awe of the emails we receive from parents concerning
how much the book has helped them. Praise God!

But we think we can do more to help you. God has led us to turn our
book into a full blown, multi layered ministry, designed to help the
Christian unschooler, those who are relaxing their homeschool into
unschooling and those who have just escaped from the public school
system. Our plans include: a devotional/bible study for the Christian
Unschooler, a consultation service via email and phone, scheduled
chats and seminars.

We will be speaking on Christian Unschooling at the Link homeschool
conference, held in CA June 2001. We are available for other speaking
engagements.

Watch the website for details as they unfold!!!

4. Links
Some basic, good, homeschool links!

Unschooling.com
Has great articles, support and encouragement.

National Home Education Network
Grassroots organization involved in support and information
networking across the nation.

Cafi Cohen's site..great for homeschooling high schoolers!!

A to Z Home's Cool

Worldbook site..typical course of study..by grade/subject

Homeschooling Special Needs

5. Book Review
by Elissa Wahl

The Complete Tightwad Gazette
by Amy Dacyczyn

This hefty book is three-in-one. The Tightwad Gazette was a
newsletter, turned book, turned books! This is a compilation of the
best of the newsletters and all three books, in one.

I am still not completely finished with this behemoth book...while I
usually fly through books, this one commands extra time. It is full
of hints and tried and true money savers. More importantly, it is
FULL of extensive research that is aimed at saving time and money.

The author writes as if she is speaking directly to me, very honest
and open and clear. We learn about her family, her business, things
they have tried that have worked, and flubbs that haven't!

I, like many, am always searching for ways to cut our daily living
expenses, in order to one day go on that trip to the Grand Canyon, or
so we can get a van with air conditioning....this book explores some
ways I have thought of, but delves so fully into the savings
LIFESTYLE that I am left with many feelings.

I am above all hopeful, that I too, might get to the level this
author has....for now, I garage sale, look for the best deals at the
grocery store, storehop and more, but never, on my most imaginative
day, would I EVER have thought to rinse out the leftovers of the jam
jar to flavor popsicles!

I am doing now, with this book, what I do often. I absorb, file it
away, maybe don't put it into practice right away, but draw from it
when "my way" doesn't seem to fit anymore. It's like much of
life....read, listen, and take from it what you can, when you can!

All in all, I feel this book was a GREAT deal , great reading
material, and very very helpful to the wannabe tightwad!!

Elissa

6. Closing Letter

ATTENTION!! WE NEED SUBMISSIONS!!! You need not be a writer! Share
with us your experiences: a fun trip, a book review, a new support
group, a great link, something profound your children said/did, any
experience!

I would LOVE essays from moms or teens about the process they
followed to get into college, essays addressing DOUBT, addressing
record keeping..anything! It is almost a sure bet that if it is on
your mind/heart, one of us has felt it too.

Until next time,
Be blessed you all!

Elissa Wahl
Teri Brown
Angel Dyke

7. Subscription Information

Subscribe at : http://yahoogroups.com/community/Seedling or email
Unschoolr@aol.com

Unsubscribe at: http://yahoogroups.com/community/Seedling or email
Unschoolr@aol.com

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