Monday, March 10, 2014

Book and Resource Reviews: Part 1

Below you will find a list of books, curriculum, and resources that I have found useful in my homeschooling journey.  Title and author are provided, as well as links to purchase if one is available. This list will be updated periodically.  Please be sure to check the Book and Resource Review tab to see the current list. 

(Disclaimer:  I am not being rewarded or compensated in any way by the authors, publishers, or book sellers.  These are materials that I have used/plan to use within my own home and have purchased on my own or have been given by friends.)


Homeschooling Advice/Methods:
 
Homeschooling: A Patchwork of Days by Nancy Lande
      This book follows 30 different families through a typical day at each house.  It has given me great insight as to how the different methods would look actually played out in a home.  The book can be purchased here as well as other websites/bookstores.

Homeschooling Methods:  Seasoned Advice on Learning Styles by Paul Suarez, Gena Suarez, and Ruth Beechick
      The authors have compiled information from experts in each of the common methods as well as  practical advice.  It is a great resource for those trying to learn about or decide on a method or methods.  Perfect for someone like me that does not want to spend hours searching through websites, compiling information, and then trying to remember where you found it all.  The work is done for you.  This book can be purchased at Amazon as well as other sellers.

The Old Schoolhouse Magazine

      Awesome benefit, that I just discovered when writing this-  There is a bimontly, digital copy of the magazine available FREE online.  Additionally there is a yearly print issue.  I have purchased the print issue and enjoyed the different perspectives and the many potential resources that are listed.  The subscription policies have changed recently (from what I understand) so please visit their website for details. 


Scheduling/"Classroom" Management:

Managers of Their Homes by Steve and Teri Maxwell of Titus2 Ministries

      We all know how important a schedule and routine are in the lives of families, whether they are homeschooling or not.  This book gives awesome practical advice for creating a schedule for each family member.  There were some parts that will apply more in our future, as her personal story revolves around her eight children.  However, the vast majority of information can be applied immediately, and there are stories/testimonies from other families of various sizes, ages, and homeschooling stages interspersed throughout the book that are easy to relate to.  The best part is the worksheet packet at the back of the book that can be used as a manipulative to create your own family schedule.  My husband and I enjoyed working together on this part.  Although we have not magically stuck to a detailed schedule, we have learned a lot about the importance of routines as well as the how-tos of scheduling.  As our children grow and homeschooling time increases, we find ourselves going back to the knowledge gained in this book.  There are additional resources regarding chores, homeschooling itself and other topics, as well as ordering information on their website.


Your turn:  What books or resources do you recommend to other homeschooling families?  What is on your most used or read resource list?

Happy Teaching,
Sarah