“Mama, when do they make the first graders cry, because I need to stay home that week.” That was the question my child asked me the first day of first grade. At first, I couldn’t understand what she was asking.  “You know, Mama, the whole week where everyone has to be really quiet, and can’t [...]

Fractions can be tough for some kids, mine included.  I probably worked longer at figuring out how to effectively teach fractions than I did at actually teaching them.  Our fractions lessons just weren’t working.  The kids would get a glazed over look on their faces after just a few minutes with the math book, and [...]

My youngest one now is reading a book that has more to follow.  To her this is big girl books!  I am thinking this is a good thing for her to build vocabulary.  The reinforcement is something she has always needed to keep her mind fresh.  These entertaining word playing games are the best for [...]

Anyone new to homeschooling wonders, “How do I homeschool ______?”  Just fill in the blank there with your favorite (or least favorite!) subject.  So I was wondering how to homeschool spelling.   For the younger grades especially, there are so many spelling books out there to choose from; it’s overwhelming!  I’ve tried several of them for [...]

We are still working on it, of course. What, you ask? Spelling and vocabulary! My daughter has an incredible spoken vocabulary. She reads above grade level and for that I am very grateful. I don’t worry too much about whether or not she has mastered grade level vocabulary or even whether she might be above [...]