Terri’s Take… » Blog Archive » Homeschooling ABCs Lesson B

Hi there,

Happy Monday! Welcome back to the August Spectacular. My two sons (Levi in front of the camera and Brady behind the camera) joined me to create a quick 46 second video to touch base with you.

Please remember that these lessons are completely free – there are no strings attached. However, if you want to be included in the drawing on September 1st to win the full course, all 27 lessons, then we ask that you take a moment out of your week to post your thoughts on each lesson here on my blog. There will be 25 winners for the full course and 10 runner up prizes.

Some people had trouble receiving the lesson last week, so I am giving you a little extra time (say 48 hours) to post about Lesson A on the blog post below (http://knowledgequestmaps.com/blog/2009/08/homeschooling-abcs-lesson-a/). You can post about this second lesson, Lesson B, right here. Remember to get this done before next Monday at noon EST. It only takes a minute to post and your comments are so appreciated!!

If you haven’t received your second lesson yet, then check your in-box. You will receive it before 3:00pm EST. Please add my email address – terri@homeschoolingabcs.com – to your inbox to keep it from disappearing into your spam or junk mail folders.

Have a great day and I will see you next week,

Terri

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185 Responses to “Homeschooling ABCs Lesson B”

Rhonda August 10th, 2009 at 11:49 am

again, this is fairly basic stuff. I wish I had seen it earlier! I also wish the window of opportunity hadn’t closed, as I have a friend who *just* made the decision to homeschool, and she’s VERY overwhelmed with everything the THINKS she has to do.

Stacy August 10th, 2009 at 12:02 pm

Great basics outlining some of the “why’s” we homeschool — preparing their hearts as well as their minds. I’ve been going through an excellent book with the kids by Bruce Ware titled, “Big Truths for Young Hearts.” It’s amazing how much younger ones are able to understand about who God is. Highly recommended!

Jenn Hanna August 10th, 2009 at 12:04 pm

This back to basics lesson is full of great and practical ideas for helping your children enjoy the learning process. I think one of the best things about homeschool is the ability to constantly remind my children of God, his character, and how we can honor Him even in school. Starting the day in prayer is key! Thank you!

Katharine Brown August 10th, 2009 at 12:23 pm

Cool .. good stuff once again! Even as a ‘seasoned homeschool mom’ starting at the beginning with my 6 yo is overwhelming. Thank you for breaking things back down to the important! Have a blessed week!

Brianne August 10th, 2009 at 12:31 pm

I really appreciated the emphasis on Bible time and morning routines. Our family schedule has recently changed and might allow us for the first time to have morning devotions led by Dad. Thank you for the reminder of its importance, encouragement to pursue it, and the resources to help make it happen!

purple moose August 10th, 2009 at 1:00 pm

Hi Terri, nice to “meet” you! I have 2 major thoughts this week. First, I’ve always heard “discipline” as defined as “training.” Correcting for misbehaviour I’ve heard called “punishment.” But you define “discipline” as a negative element, that is very different.

Second, I think Circle Time would be a good idea for us to implement.

Third (Oops, I can’t count!) we need to be more specific in our Bible training. I’ve been thinking this for a while, but after looking at the resources and talking with Hubby, I think we can make a plan.

Thanks!

Krista August 10th, 2009 at 1:03 pm

I really enjoyed the article. I didn’t start my oldest in homeschool until fourth grade, but I am starting fresh with my youngest this year and am a little anxious. I love the basic approach and easy way to start. It takes away some of the worries and reminds me to just take it one step at a time.

Linda August 10th, 2009 at 1:22 pm

Thanks for sharing with us that Bible is the basic. I have gotten so many good ideas from this lesson. Thanks for the reminder that prayer is powerful and it changes people’s lives (It helped me to know that it’s not me changing my kids’ characters and behaviors. It is God who can change!) Definitely will spend more time in prayers myself and with the kids.

Katie August 10th, 2009 at 1:26 pm

This is our first year homeschooling 2 and it’s pretty overwhelming to think about. Thanks for breaking it down to the simple basics. I think we’re making it harder than it has to be.

Cortney August 10th, 2009 at 1:40 pm

I loved this lesson. I really appreciated the bible study course. So helpful. Thanks again!!!

Karen August 10th, 2009 at 1:47 pm

Very good basic advice in this lesson. Thanks also for the links to extra information. The advice about morning routines has made me consider how to use our time more productively and positively.

I agree with a previous poster that the word “discipline” does not need to have a negative connotation. I hope that I teach my children “self-discipline” as they learn God’s word.

Thank you for your service in helping us be better homeschoolers.

Denise August 10th, 2009 at 1:55 pm

Love lesson A- so true!! Wish I had this when I started homeschooling 4 years ago.

Ruth Drapper August 10th, 2009 at 1:56 pm

It’s great to know that the author has her priorities right. Here in the UK family devotions and Christian Character are often neglected in Christian families and not encouraged by Pastors and church leaders.
Thank you again for a great lesson and a refreshing look at my priorities for home schooling my children.

Sharon August 10th, 2009 at 2:14 pm

thanks for another great lesson (i’ve been thinking about lesson 1 all week!).

Really good idea to have Dad lead the Bible study. I never would have thought of that, yet it’s so obvious. Thanks!

Jessica August 10th, 2009 at 2:43 pm

I liked the circle time idea for first thing in the morning. I usually feel rushed to get “school” started but am realizing that this time is also a very important part of the day. Thanks for the reminder!

Lora August 10th, 2009 at 2:54 pm

I love the idea of starting the day with circle time of some sort and incorporating some fun into the beginning of the school day!

Cindy August 10th, 2009 at 3:21 pm

These are great basics. Ruth Beechick’s books were the first homeschooling books I ever bought. I have them all. I have found it good to skim back over them at the beginning of the year to help focus and organize.

We try to start each year slowly, adding something new every few days or per week.

We are getting our morning routine down this first week(up,dress,make bed,breakfast,teeth and hair) and are continuing the circle time (mainly prayer and Bible reading for now).We will focus on math, english,reading,and science this week. We plan to have Daddy lead the Bible and Character study at night starting next week.

The free resources look good. I plan to use this for the first weeks.

Kate August 10th, 2009 at 3:36 pm

I think the information you share about routines and sharing a spiritual practice each day is very important. Thank you for sharing this with us.

darlene mulholland August 10th, 2009 at 3:37 pm

This lesson again, is quite helpful for new homeschoolers. Bible is key. Another great book is “parenting with proverbs” which I have liked to use. We always spend read aloud time with everyone taking turns and group discussions. I am glad to be reminded to re-read Ruth Beechick’s books. They are so very helpful.

Brandy August 10th, 2009 at 3:52 pm

What a great idea having Dad run the devotions. Our Dad leads family worship at night before bed, but it would be great to also have that time in the morning.

Also, Thank you for reminding us to keep the main thing the main thing. I want my children to be saved and to be acting like Christ. That is the main thing. This thing we call “education” should not be the main thing. Yes, we need to teach our children and equip them for their future. But teaching them about Jesus is so very important in comparison to anything else.

Let’s teach them Jesus and trust Him for the rest.

Vicki B. August 10th, 2009 at 4:04 pm

So true about the Bible! I have also read Ruth Beechick’s books ‘You Can Teach Your Child Successfully’ and ‘A Home Start In Reading’ and they are wonderful. They are worthy of re-reading. I don’t have the others yet.

Jenny A August 10th, 2009 at 4:07 pm

Funny, you should mention exercising… Just this morning after we had our Bible reading, we went for a walk. I plan to do this each day and will use your suggestion to put on a exercise video if the weather doesn’t permit us to go outside. Thanks!

Jhansi August 10th, 2009 at 4:17 pm

Bible first. That is a step that, unfortunately, I need the reminder of repeatedly. Sitting down and reading the Bible first always is a blessing and gets us going. It is such a connection for us and gives us a good transition from being scattered.

Kathleen August 10th, 2009 at 4:34 pm

I absolutely agree with Bible first! thank you for the reminder to add the 3 Rs next and work your way out. I was also reminded of just how important that morning routine is!

Pat August 10th, 2009 at 4:42 pm

Thanks again for your lesson this week. I especially appreciate the information about Bible study — have always wanted to incorporate that, but have had a hard time finding a good curriculum. We usually have morning devotions after breakfast, but I have been looking for something a little “meatier”.

Melinda August 10th, 2009 at 4:44 pm

We already do morning devotional time together as a family, and I must say it is an important part of our day. One thing we really enjoy is singing Scripture songs. (My husband wrote the ones we’re currently learning, so that makes it more special.)

Thanks for the additional ideas for circle time. I think that if we add some activities other than story,singing, and memorization, our day will get off to a more positive start. And I love the Ruth Beechick’s books. They were some of the first homeschool books I read – right after “Better Late Than Early” by Raymond & Dorothy Moore.

Shana August 10th, 2009 at 5:00 pm

Very good information. It is so easy to get overwhelmed by all there is to do, this helps remind you what the main focus should be. I appreciate the included resources, makes it easier to follow through rather than searching for things that fit.

Emily Plowfield August 10th, 2009 at 5:02 pm

Thank you for lesson 2! I really enjoyed the game ideas for circle time! I plan on incorporating them all into our morning routine! Thanks again!

Christine August 10th, 2009 at 5:21 pm

Good information throughout. Getting ‘Dad’ involved in the Bible study is a great idea. I’ll have to see where we can work that into his day. Thanks once again for a great lesson!

Jennifer August 10th, 2009 at 5:21 pm

Thank you, Terri. I loved what you said about praising children. This is so important and yet I know I sometimes forget when I’m tired and busy. Giving positive energy brings back more positvie energy and creates a beautiful virtuous circle in our families.

Karla August 10th, 2009 at 5:45 pm

My favorite nugget of information…and favorite reminder…is to start each school day with a prayer.

Sherri Boekweg August 10th, 2009 at 6:00 pm

I especially liked the information about establishing a consistent morning routine. That seems to be what has been a challenge for me so it motivated me to put some of your ideas to practice and see if our mornings can go more smoothly.

Patti August 10th, 2009 at 6:02 pm

Although I’ve been homeschooling for 10 years, I am really enjoying your lessons. I am in the process of adoption, so my homeschooling days are not over, and I want to include more of the things you are talking about the next time around.

I especially agree with the need to make the Bible paramount in our homeschools. For the first several years of homeschooling, I was so obsessed with doing all the academic things everyone else thought I should be doing that I neglected the most important thing—the Lord. Finally, I realized that it didn’t matter if my kids were 2 grade levels ahead in math…what mattered was that they were growiong in the Lord and growing in character. I made some changes in our school and made sure Biblical instruction was never neglected. Apart from the Lord, we can do nothing…including teach our children.

Thank you for this series. Even an old dog can learn new tricks.

Blessings,
Patti

Melissa August 10th, 2009 at 6:28 pm

I like the games idea for circle time and the idea of exercising. Last fall, before the weather got cold (live in MN), we’d go for a walk, which was a great transition from playing to learning time. I need to determine how we’ll do better at such transitions this next year – including when it’s too cold for the toddler. I’ve also been brainstorming a better morning routine lately, so this lesson is a great reinforcer of continuing that work.

Jackie August 10th, 2009 at 7:04 pm

Terri:

I think that these lessons are wonderful. I know I would really love to get the whole set of lessons.

Jackie S

Kelly Greene August 10th, 2009 at 7:28 pm

thanks. I greatly appreciate the lesson. I was wondering if the three r’s book was something I should read and now i know i should. thanks again.

Katherine August 10th, 2009 at 7:34 pm

Really great suggestions here. I cant wait to have my husband read this and begin helping out with the schooling when available.

Marci Kentch August 10th, 2009 at 8:10 pm

Lesson B was all very good stuff. I love Ruth Beechiks books too. My youngest is going into 4th now, so I will look for your suggested book for teaching older children.
The character training is an important part and I would recommend that one should keep up with it even when they are older. I kind of dropped the ball as they got older and thought it was cemented in, but not being reinforced, it fell by the wayside. Now I see where I failed, but feel that it is pretty much too late to try to fix it. My advice is to perservere with whatever you get started. Even if you think they have got it down, don’t stop training until they have left the nest.

Jane August 10th, 2009 at 8:12 pm

The heart of any family should be to love God and serve Him. You gave some good direction on how to do that in a family involvement that can develop good character which is necessary no matter how much knowledge one might have.

Larissa August 10th, 2009 at 9:13 pm

Hi Teri
Thank you for such a great resource. Easy to understand and follow. You have brought together so much information that is spread out all over in one place for easy access. Well done!

Bethany August 10th, 2009 at 9:46 pm

I agree with you that the father should lead Bible time with the children as much as possible. My father was a Christian but didn’t really interact with my brothers and me on that level. We went to church every Sunday, and he would read his Bible silently in front of us most mornings, for which I am very grateful. But he never led the family in Bible reading/memorizing or prayer (except for blessing the food at mealtimes) together. I think this hurt my brothers the most because only one of the three is really serving the Lord, and they have all had much difficulty in life. Fathers can benefit their children greatly by showing that real men love and serve Jesus and by helping/leading their children to do the same!

Margret August 10th, 2009 at 9:50 pm

Your gaol was achieveable, real and had all the important ingredients for a positive and wholesome start for a HS week/year. I appreciated it even after over 7 yrs of HS! I will be recommending this to others! Thanks!

Tracie August 10th, 2009 at 10:01 pm

I love the specific ideas for circle time you mentioned today, including “telephone”, “storytelling”, and “word association”. Simple ideas, yet I can’t say I’ve done them much with my elementary/preschool kids. I’ll be incorporating them this year for sure.

Mary August 10th, 2009 at 10:48 pm

Thank you for some new resources to train the heart toward “home.” This unfortunately is sometimes the hardest and most neglected/rushed part of our day.
Thank you for reminding me of the ‘real’ reason we wanted to homeschool. We need to get off the Merry Go Round and Stop the Tyranny of the Urgent and DEVOTE our bodies, mind and spirit whole hartedly to Our Lord.

Kelly August 10th, 2009 at 10:58 pm

I’m excited to read Ruth Beechick’s books! I learned of her through The Old Schoolhouse but I didn’t realize she had so many books out there. I love what a networking community all these homeschoolers are!

Lauren August 10th, 2009 at 11:30 pm

Fabulous! I loved today’s lesson. We are first year homeschoolers and this is just what I needed to read before we begin next week. Thank you for sharing the Values Driven Discipleship and Foundations 1. We enjoyed previewing those and will be looking into those further. We can’t wait for our next lesson.

Kimberly August 10th, 2009 at 11:56 pm

Thank you for todays lesson, I really enjoyed it! I am ready to begin our homeschooling adventure and the information you share is so encouraging! I am now off to find The Three R’s!!

Christine August 11th, 2009 at 12:29 am

It seems that I sometimes get so busy with the 3Rs that I forget to make sure Bible study falls in place…even though that is one major reason I school our kids at home! Thanks for reminding us of that priority.

Christine Acre August 11th, 2009 at 12:47 am

I was so glad to read that your first “basic” was the Bible!! When we start our kindergarten class this fall, that will be the first thing we do each day. We already talk about God a lot and pray, but as my children get older I want them to have a firm foundation in the Bible and God’s teachings. By reading this, I know that your family and your company’s beliefs are what I want to be teaching my children. Thank you so much for this week’s lesson!

Kaari August 11th, 2009 at 3:00 am

I loved your morning Circle Time ideas! My children are older and these will STILL be really fun to do as a family! These games are even better with teens and pre-teens because as the school work gets more detailed, it looks less like “fun” and more like “work”. A light game in the morning will begin the day in a happy way and transition well as we finish breakfast and begin school.

yliang August 11th, 2009 at 3:26 am

thanks for the basics – I will try to check out the books suggested.

Dottie August 11th, 2009 at 6:13 am

Another great class! As I said last week, I am an “old” homeschooling mom with some graduates and some little ones, but I have found your lesson to be informative and inspiring. For me it could have been titled, BACK to the Basics or Back from Burnout.
As we moms homeschool year after year we sometimes forget the basics. We tend to think, ” Oh, I will get to this or that”, but the basics get gobbled up by the feeling we have to get math in or prep for the SATs. Next thing we know, we are not as successful as we once were. Why?
We have forgotten the Basics. FAMILY Bible study, not just mom’s alone time Bible study and CONSISTANT, DAILY MORNING ROUTINE are SOOOO important! I can’t wait to wake the family and start our routine this morning!
Thanks again for another great lesson and I like the video, it is nice to put a face and voice to the classes.
God Bless,
Dottie

JenniLyn August 11th, 2009 at 6:30 am

After reviewing your lesson, I feel so affirmed the Bible daily coloring website listed by Homeschooling Bible is one that I found a short while back and have focused on this whole summer. My son loves it and asks for it first each day, and your lesson just helps me to remember this is exactly what I should be looking for in my children. Thank you.

Susanna August 11th, 2009 at 7:24 am

I LOVE your emphasis on prayer – SO key, and we always need the reminder! Also, I heartily second your words about Ruth Beechick’s books – I need to read them again myself! Thanks for another great lesson.

Charity August 11th, 2009 at 7:41 am

Thank you for the reminder of Dad’s important role in our Bible teaching and the influence he has in the spiritual growth of our children. I was also grateful that you included the list of Circle Time ideas. I’m really looking forward to implementing that into our schooling this year…I can see how it will be a special time for us each morning. Thank you again for allowing us to have this opportunity to reflect on starting up our school year and all the tips you’re giving to us. I’ve enjoyed it so far and look forward to the rest.

Tristan August 11th, 2009 at 8:39 am

Okay, we really think alike! Hehehe. Those basics are exactly what a new homeschooling parent needs to hear. So often the Bible gets put on the back burner when homeschoolers get so busy tying to get everything else crammed into their day. They don’t realize that everything will fit better by putting the most important things first in the day! It is a great reminder to not so new to homeschooling moms like me too – thanks!

Laura H. August 11th, 2009 at 8:50 am

Prioritize prayer and “Develop a Consistent Morning Routine” – this will be my mantra for the week. I know consistency and routine are what I need to work on most, but I don’t like “routine” myself, so I have to work on a routine that incorporates enough variety so that it hides the fact that it’s a routine. That’s what I’ve been trying to accomplish for this next year, both in school planning and in menu planning, but now I see I need to think about the chore schedule in the same light. Thanks for the eye-opening thoughts!

Judy August 11th, 2009 at 8:53 am

I really loved the reminder about getting back to THE basic – the Bible. Also the routine with circle time-sometimes we get so geared up to get the school work done that we forget to connect our family. And the character training-thanks for the recource from Values Driven Family! Thank you!!

Debra August 11th, 2009 at 9:28 am

I really enjoyed this lesson. I loved your comments on Bible being *the* essential. I talk about the 4 R’s instead of the 3 R’s (Religion, reading, ‘riting, and ‘rithmatic) but don’t like how that equates Bible study with learning to add. I appreciated the back to basics reminder about praying with our kids. And I’m looking forward to checking out the Values Driven Family materials (already have used Anne Elliot’s Bible program — great stuff!)

Colleen August 11th, 2009 at 9:52 am

I struggle with the morning routine. I am excited to try your suggestions. I also can’t wait to try the circle time games. Thanks for a great lesson.

Lauren August 11th, 2009 at 10:07 am

Thank you for your reminder to start with Prayer — we have family prayer with Daddy before he leaves for work, but that is about 2 hours before school starts, and we need to re-focus by then. I also appreciated being reminded to focus on the positive — that has been a difficulty in our house this week! I am committed to re-orienting my heart though, to be more positive.

Laura August 11th, 2009 at 11:17 am

This is my third year homeschooling, but I really appreciated the first lesson as it helped me remember that I don’t have to teach them everything in the world…the first week. I get kinda worked up about how we’re going to do everything, so remembering to just relax and have fun is important. I’ve tried to have a “family” time where we read the Bible and pray, but I loved your idea of doing something in a circle on the floor. I think that is something we’re going to try this year. i struggle with getting things going in the AM. Thanks for the tips.

Kym August 11th, 2009 at 11:44 am

Hi, Terri! Thank you so much for this lesson! I am not a beginner, my son is in 5th grade, but I am really struggling. Yes, Basic #1 is the Bible. I have Anne’s bible studies, they are fantastic. Bless You! Kym

Miriam August 11th, 2009 at 12:10 pm

I am new to homeschooling (beginning in a few weeks), and was at a loss wondering where and how to begin. Your ideas came at the right moment and I am thankful. I really enjoyed reading this lesson.

Delores August 11th, 2009 at 12:40 pm

I am still impressed that you are looking at the whole child and family relations and helping first timers focus on foundation before getting bogged down in curriculum and lesson planning.
I been in this for a long time and I am glad to see you recommending the Ruth Beechick books. I think with her books and a library at your disposal for gathering information, anyone could homeschool successfully.

Sara August 11th, 2009 at 2:11 pm

I enjoyed the reiteration of the fact that prayer in our school is so important. That the Bible must be the foundation. I need to incorporate the character training in my school and my sons need to hear me praying for them for these traits. God’s word is a powerful sword and can pierce the hearts of strong willed boys! Thanks!

Marissa August 11th, 2009 at 2:28 pm

I have been thinking of having ‘dad’ do the devotionals this school year…thanks for getting me better geared for that this time.
Another game we play is thinking of words that begin with a certain letter. Give the boys a wide vocab. too.

Tina August 11th, 2009 at 2:39 pm

I liked the organization and the emphasis on the morning routine. I am a single mom so parts of this one I can not use.

Amy Dorse August 11th, 2009 at 3:06 pm

Thank you so much for giving thes lessons for free, to get us started. I especially enjoyed this weeks lesson for the Spiritual guidance. It is awesome that you included a sample of the Bible Curriculum. It’s great for getting started. Setting up a morning routine has been my biggest challange. I always have trouble following thru on my routines. This wsa great reminder fo me.

Linda August 11th, 2009 at 3:26 pm

Why are the basics the ones I need help with? I have been homeschooling for awhile and should now have those “mastered”. I need to work on Bible and Character Training more. The rest I pretty much am doing. Thanks for the reminder.

Kerstin McClintic August 11th, 2009 at 3:48 pm

What a great lesson! I started teaching Bible and Character Training first because that is what seems to get put on the back burner all the time, because of reading, writing and math. And it’s so important! THE most immportant and its very encouraging in the mornings. So thank you for the reminder.

Kerstin August 11th, 2009 at 3:50 pm

Oh, I almost forgot-thank you for your post on you tube-its great to put a face with the voice we’ve been reading. Great work to the camera man/boy!

Leann Lydic August 11th, 2009 at 4:36 pm

I like the way you break the material up into these simple steps. Thanks for continually reiterating the focus too – relationships and enjoying the process of learning.

Carol Turner August 11th, 2009 at 4:54 pm

Reading your ABC’s make planning and starting school more fun and exciting. Thanks for the reminder to keep everything Christ Centered!

RG August 11th, 2009 at 6:10 pm

Thank you for giving us permission to rotate through the same games! Many other teachers of the young feel a lot of pressure to come up with an endless supply of new ideas. Also, I enjoyed your take on training being different than discipline.

Maggie August 11th, 2009 at 6:16 pm

I like that in your basic’s outline, character building and a morning routine are included.
I think that the basic’s #1 and #2 should go hand in hand.
Another comment I would like to make is in regards to character building, I believe if parents lead in a good example than the children will follow.

Jennifer August 11th, 2009 at 6:22 pm

Thanks for the information. I have been praying through my homeschool day and this was just the focus I needed. Simple and keeping ot the basics.

Denise K. August 11th, 2009 at 7:13 pm

I needed this reminder to keep the Bible FIRST!!!!! Even though this is our only purpose in life, it seems that it is all too easy to focus on other things. Thanks for the reminder that we need to stay focused for a succesful homeschool. I love these lessons and will look forward to the new one next week. (with plenty of reading to keep me busy until then!)

Gigi August 11th, 2009 at 7:48 pm

Good lesson. I wish that my husband would lead Bible for the family, but I don’t think that he ever will, and fighting over it isn’t worthwhile. Anyway, my only tip is to spell out numbers in your writing, as you had a few places where you wrote numerals in prose, which is generally a no-no.

Karen August 11th, 2009 at 10:04 pm

Thanks for reminding me to keep the Bible first. We start “school time” with a Bible story, but not with prayer, and if it weren’t for that Bible story, I wouldn’t be in the Word at all. (I know; I’m not setting a good example). It’s just so easy to let laundry and cooking and other household tasks take over. (My children are 2 and 5, which isn’t old enough to be much help around the house).

We started homeschooling in July. My son loves math because he gets to eat the M&Ms when we’re done. And I think he has taught himself to read. But right now I’m having to resort to bribery to get him to write. (Kindergarten requirement in our state). He seems to like it better if he can write without lines on a chalkboard or on blank paper instead of in a lined tablet or a copywork sheet.

Jeannette August 11th, 2009 at 10:58 pm

I definitely agree with you on Ruth Beechick’s books! A friend recommended them to me when we first started homeschooling, 13 years ago. I reread them every few years (we have 6 children, the youngest of which is 4) and have given several sets to friends who were just starting out on their homeschool journeys.
One thing I struggle with is establishing and maintaining a morning routine. I know it is very important, and this lesson was another confirmation that I need to try again. I like your ideas and plan to include some of the games this time, something that we haven’t done in the past.
Thank you for making these lessons available!

Donna August 11th, 2009 at 11:13 pm

Thank you for this lesson! I was looking to establish a morning routine and this is great. I want my children (5 years and 2 years) to love reading their Bible. I want to be able to see the fruit of God’s character being instilled in my children. Thank you for saying that consistancey is also key. (Watchful parents). Sometimes that is a challenge to do, but the results are amazing. I look forward to getting the books by Ruth Beechick. I’ve heard that they are must haves. They are frequently out at my local library….I should just order them! Thank you again for all your encouraging lessons! Monday’s never looked so good!!

Tiffanie August 12th, 2009 at 2:46 am

Thank you for your focus being on God’s Word. Including that “the Bible is not “a” basic, but rather “THE Basic” is certainly of highest importance. One “nugget” I appreciated was your reminder of praise being used for good behavior rather than bribery or threats for building good character.

Tiffanie August 12th, 2009 at 2:54 am

Oops. I was not quite done. I wanted to add that “God inhabits the praises of His people.” I thought of how when we “praise” our children -I KNOW IT IS NOT THE SAME AS PRAISING THE LORD, but I thought how “it is all about relationship.” If we build our children up, that act will encourage relationship, and will hopefully draw them nearer to us. As when we praise our heavenly Father, and Draw near to Him, He then draws near to us. That is what came to my mind as I read about praising our children.

Thanks for the Bible Curriculum Sample. It is a wonderful tool to include in the beginning of your lessons. God’s Word should indeed be the “MAIN THING!”

Amanda August 12th, 2009 at 6:33 am

Some great reminders in lesson B and some very timely confirmation to what God has been speaking to me about as I prepare to begin my homeschooling journey in January. My husband and I have been speaking specifically on the topic of him leading the family devotion each day. I totally agree with your 4 Basics! They are the exact things I have listed as my main focus. Thank-you!

Debbie S August 12th, 2009 at 9:05 am

I love Ruth Beechick’s little books! They are so practical and concise. My favorite part of this lesson was the reminder to have a consistent morning routine and before-school expectations. Boy, have I let that slip this summer! Your lesson was a “wake up call” to get our morning up and running the right way, right now, before we also have to implement the full school schedule. It’s soooo much easier that way!

Jen August 12th, 2009 at 9:16 am

Great ideas! loved the games suggestions and will definitely be adding those to my toolbox.

Sundae Woodall August 12th, 2009 at 12:51 pm

I loved the reminder about the morning schedule. I agree with this so much. The days we do one we seem to have a better day. I am also trying to locate the Ruth Beechick books. I am looking for a fresh aproach to homeschooling this year because I am wanting to change the way we are doing things. Thank You.

Lynda August 12th, 2009 at 5:55 pm

We are not a big fan of mornings around here so the advice for a routine is great for us. It gets us into the swing of the day a little easier. The circle time games are something we want to start as well. Thank you so much for the encouragement.

Michelle August 12th, 2009 at 6:51 pm

I am loving these lessons! As a just starting out homeschooling momma, I am loving all the free and useful materials and resources that I can start building with for my little girl! Thank you so much! I had some of the Bible Curriculum stuff, but I love the ideas you gave also. I totally agree that the Bible is to be the most important subject taught to your kids. What better lesson can we teach our kids, than how to be the person that Jesus designed them to be???

Jennifer August 12th, 2009 at 8:53 pm

Another great lesson! Basics are so important!! And starting the day with prayer is devotions is vital and essential! Thank you for these wonderful reminders! And for this wonderful resource for a beginning homeschooling mom!

Julie August 12th, 2009 at 9:56 pm

Thank you for the links to the Bible study and character samplers. I think I need to more purposefully add character development to our school day. Your point that we should reward their good actions was a helpful reminder to me. I also like the morning game suggestions. I think they can be helpful to break up some of the subjects.
Thanks for another helpful lesson!

Abi August 12th, 2009 at 9:56 pm

Routine is good for the whole day. When we started HSing I made it priority that school came first. Shopping and errands were afterwards; no matter what. Only doctor’s appointments took over school. School was top # 1. Yes, we start the day with Bible and pledges and prayer.

Nancy August 12th, 2009 at 10:04 pm

Terri, you have a wonderful way with words. I wish you would have had this when I started homeschooling 7 years ago. Bible and character are so important; that becomes more obvious as they age (and there are more around). It is wonderful to have free samples to try, great because they are free and I have them without having to find them for myself. Thanks again.

Tami Casperson August 13th, 2009 at 8:02 am

I really enjoyed the Beecheck books when I read them last. They are filled with great material. Thank you for reminding me that they are on the shelf in the “classroom” and I should refresh my memory for teaching my littleones!

Shannon Drinnon August 13th, 2009 at 9:52 am

You are such a blessing! THANK YOU for the baby steps and THANK YOU for the articles – Homeschool Bible and the character charts. WOW! This is my first year homeschooling and this material is proving an invaluable source of inspiration, education, and encouragment. THANK YOU! Thank you for the idea of Dad leading Bible time each day. What a great way to get him involved and a part of it all. Can’t wait until next Monday!!!

Jessica Murphy August 13th, 2009 at 11:45 am

I have to say that God is so working on my heart and my homeschooling motives. I have been a little off my game these past few months and ignoring God and my kids schooling. I have been searching for curriculum but not trying any of it out or really researching it, just lurking. Thank you for the extra push I needed, getting back to the Bible, building my kids character and consistency. Thank you, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!!

Cindy at ValuesDrivenFamily.com August 13th, 2009 at 3:25 pm

Terri, thanks for the SIMPLE reminder to begin each homeschooling day with prayer. We started up again yesterday…the first day was rough, as we haven’t formally “schooled” since May…and of course, after catching up with Lesson B, I realized that we hadn’t covered our day/our new school year in prayer!!

Michelle August 13th, 2009 at 4:06 pm

Thank you for another wonderful lesson. I particularly enjoyed the circle time suggestions. I loved that the suggestions were things that can be fun for all ages, and I loved the emphasis on Bible study and prayer. Thanks for the reminder to let Daddy lead the Bible lessons. I feel like I learned so much this week.

Teonei August 13th, 2009 at 4:35 pm

Thank you for the game ideas for circle time. My children would probably come more quickly to begin school if we started with one of these each day.

Ruth August 13th, 2009 at 5:36 pm

Prayer is soooo important! Why do I forget to start our day with prayer? Thank you for another great reminder. The circle time games will be fun I think for all of us. The older children can help the younger children. Thank you again!

Lisa White August 13th, 2009 at 9:00 pm

I LOVED that your main emphasis was the Bible and prayer, with Dad doing the teaching. It is so important for him to be the spiritual head of the family.

Thanks for the reminder about the importance of that morning routine. We’ve got to get one set up!

Pati August 13th, 2009 at 10:57 pm

Want to remember to ask children how THEY would like the family to pray for them. Liked the expansion on games for circle time. Will try some of them.

You are sooo right-morning routine is vital to happy campers.

Nancy August 13th, 2009 at 11:18 pm

I have already decided that I need to be a bit more organized and have more of a morning routine this year. I am going to incorporate circle time each morning and emphasize more Scripture memory. Thanks!

Cynthia B. August 14th, 2009 at 6:03 am

Thank you for all of your great suggestions! Prayer is very important to our family.After we all pray together we take turns adding our own thoughts, requests,etc. Thank you for all of your hard work to help us.

Amy August 14th, 2009 at 7:57 am

I like your recommendation for making time for Dad to lead devotions and for establishing a morning routine.

Terra August 14th, 2009 at 8:11 am

Thanks for another great volume. I especially liked being reminded about circle time and I have the Values Driven Material and I was so it excited to see you mention it. Can’t wait for next week.

Terri C. August 14th, 2009 at 10:14 am

Great reminders about the Word and prayer being our main focus and emphasis with our children each day. It is so easy to get distracted in our schedule and “put off” this time until later. Also enjoyed the idea of adding fun little games to our “circle time”–ours is called FEAST. We will be trying this next week. Joined the Values Driven website and started reading–very enjoyable!

Lillian August 14th, 2009 at 10:37 am

Thank you for the links to the bible study and character developments. These will be great tools to use in coming up with my own morning routine. I really like the list of games

Amandia Daigneault August 14th, 2009 at 5:09 pm

Stll not seeing much “new information” and lots of stuff that just seems like common sense…Ruth Beechick is a staple in my hommeschool. As I said last week, this could be very beneficial to the new homeschooler but “vets” need not tune in yet. I’m hoping for more new insights as the weeks move on.

Dawn August 14th, 2009 at 9:31 pm

Great ideas for “Circle Time” or whatever you call the beginning of your day. I like the idea of playing a quick game like I Spy or Telephone. It lightens the mood before you get down to work. I always seem to gravitate to the “seriousness” of learning, and this could really help set a more relaxed “tone” for our day. I also like the reminder to POST a list of things you want the kids to do. Having that visual reminder should cut back on the need for verbal ones! Oh, and the bonus resources are wonderful. Thanks!

Amanda August 15th, 2009 at 4:02 pm

Thanks so much for the reminder to pray EVERY morning. Especially asking the children HOW they would like to be prayed for. This gets them away from generic “same old” daily prayers. I thought last week that circle time wouldn’t work with just one child, but you gave some good suggestions that fit. Thanks!!

Katherine August 15th, 2009 at 7:31 pm

Thanks for the suggestions, starting “homework” time with some fun stuff before has calmed the idea of “homework” down for our 8 year old. Any ideas on another word for homework?

Martha August 15th, 2009 at 11:44 pm

Thank you for another helpful lesson. I will be putting into use the idea of family request prayer time each day. My husband does already teach the kids from the Bible regularly, but not on a scheduled basis. I do want to work this into our new morning circle time.

Margret August 16th, 2009 at 12:50 am

Wholesome and a good reminder to do the important things fisrt and not to let the Bible get crowded out by academics.

Margret

Amy August 16th, 2009 at 8:14 am

The Bible is THE most important book that is taught. Thanks for the reminder and tips about circle time.

Rachel August 16th, 2009 at 3:37 pm

I really appreciate the emphasis on starting the day together and more importantly, starting it with prayer. I look forward to starting this year of homeschooling with renewed enthusiasm!

Linda August 16th, 2009 at 3:56 pm

I had just been saying to my husband how we needed to start reading the Bible again with the kids. Thanks for the little reminder!

Alisha August 16th, 2009 at 6:05 pm

Thanks for another great lesson. I really appreciated the emphasis placed on the Bible and prayer. I want Bible study and prayer to be first and foremost in our homeschooling but have found myself spending more time planning for other subjects. Sometimes we need a friendly reminder to get back to THE basic!

Laura August 16th, 2009 at 6:16 pm

I’ve been trying to implement a morning schedule for 2 years now and still meeting with resistance. Thanks for the encouragement to really get that going. Any suggestions on how to ‘train’ the kids not to wake and start to play instead of doing what is scheduled would be appreciated. Also enjoyed the character training info.l from the link (valuesdriven)

Jennifer August 16th, 2009 at 6:28 pm

Enjoyed lesson B

Jen in Oz August 16th, 2009 at 7:52 pm

I am not a prayer (yes, I know!) but I do find reading over my goals for my family and homeschool really helps me to focus on what is important in my life. I am getting us up and running with a morning routine this week, starting slowly with household and personal care first. School will be gradually added back in over the next few weeks. I appreciate the character training info from Values Driven. They have good materials.

Lauri August 16th, 2009 at 8:10 pm

The idea of establishing a morning routine is quite valuable. And the idea of including games at the beginning of the day helps set a happy tone for the rest of it. Thanks for these tips.

yvonne August 16th, 2009 at 9:16 pm

Bible and prayer .. the foundations of following Christ … the foundation of life. Great reminder.

Terrie August 16th, 2009 at 9:37 pm

This is a great encouragement to all, whether we have been homeschooling for several years or just starting out. When we start our day with prayer and bible, our day is so much smoother!

Elizabeth August 16th, 2009 at 9:40 pm

Thanks for another great lesson! The expansion of circle times was great. The idea to include the children learning a musical instrument in the circle time is a great one! Keep them coming! Thanks!

Karen August 16th, 2009 at 10:27 pm

I love the character training section! I have been striving to include similar lessons in our daily routine and I appreciate them being included here as well. I really like the direction your lessons are taking!

Cheryl Baumgarten August 16th, 2009 at 10:30 pm

What can I say. The Lord knew exactly what I needed. This lesson really works at the heart first. Prayer, God’s word, encouraging the Dad to be the Spiritual leader in the home. Thanks so much. Looking forward to the upcoming weeks

Anne August 16th, 2009 at 10:34 pm

Thanks again for stressing the circle time. What a great way to start the day especially beginning with prayer. I like child directed prayer very much!! The games will definitely get our day off to a fun start much better than some of our days last school year.

Cheyenne August 16th, 2009 at 10:53 pm

I loved the idea of having my husband lead/teach our Bible Study as the one subject. We have usually had him help with math or science since he is an engineer and is very talented in that area, but I like the idea of having him do Bible instead.

Debbie August 16th, 2009 at 11:11 pm

Terri,
I am really enjoying these classes. I think you are exactly right in what you teach in Lesson B about Bible teaching and character trait training. Last year when we started homeschooling I knew that I wanted Bible to be something we taught every day and I incorporated that. But it didn’t occur to me to teach character traits….and we have some issues there. My oldest is 12 and starting some of the pre-teen behavior and he and my youngest, 9, seem to fuss with and about each other quite a bit. One of the things I have added this year is character trait lessons. We are in week 2 of our school year and I can already see a difference.
I plan to check out some of the Ruth Beechick books you recommended if I can find them at the library.
Thanks so much for the free lessons!
Debbie

Tanya August 17th, 2009 at 1:08 am

Thanks for the free lessons and spiritual focus. Don’t have the Beechick books at the library, so I might have to buy them some day online.

Amber August 17th, 2009 at 2:42 am

Thank you for the ideas and suggestions. I have wanted to incorporate Bible study and character lessons but had no idea where to begin or how to structure it. Thank you for the links…they will be a huge help!

Lee August 17th, 2009 at 3:17 am

Thanks for all the resources and circle time ideas! This is a great way to find out how to incorporate great ideas into our day!

Krissy August 17th, 2009 at 7:31 am

These lessons are so awesome!! How thorough each is! I am amazed at how well some seemingly difficult topics are laid out so simply! The Bible study and character lessons/circle time ideas are invaluable!! Keep them coming!

Krissy August 17th, 2009 at 7:33 am

Oh, I forgot, the Beechick books are VERY good! I already owned them and had read through them (very easy reading) and they got me exctied about going back to a “simple” way of educating!

Jackie August 17th, 2009 at 8:04 am

My boys know that the first thing we do after breakfast is prayer and Bible study together. Thank you for the reminder that children need to see and hear GOD’s word from their fathers too. I think a better phase instead of “hide the word of GOD in our hearts” should be “write the word of GOD in our hearts” as stated in Heb. 8:10 and Jer. 31:30. Thank you for including some circle time fun as well.

Michele Chamblee August 17th, 2009 at 8:16 am

Thank you for the reminder to keep Bible first. With my husbands schedule it’s been difficult in achieving this all together, but we are actively pursuing this important time together training our children. Thank you for your encouragement.

Toni Dunlap August 17th, 2009 at 9:37 am

When I first read lesson B I had thoughts of “yes I know that” and didn’t give much more thought to it. Then this weekend we had special speakers at our church and the Lord really convicted me majorly. He spoke to my heart “If you teach these girls prayer first then academics will flow so much easier”. In my zeal to get all my subjects lined up I had not left much room for time for prayer, kinda squeeze it in before bed. I have to admit that my schedule is just a bit “dumped out on the floor” with a let’s start over and do this right conviction.

Elsa August 17th, 2009 at 9:39 am

I really appreciated the obvious point of keeping the word of the Lord as the main focus. For many, though not all, the Lord is the reason we choose to home educate our children. It’s a challenge we’re willing to take on. I like some of the ideas that were shared. Sometimes we, old teachers, need to shake out the sheets and get some fresh air! The materials offered look very interesting and I appreciate looking into fresh ideas. Thanks!

Martha Huber August 17th, 2009 at 10:04 am

Thank you so much for the extra freebies…they are great! I love the basics beginning with the bible and prayer. I have noticed that when we don’t start with bible and prayer, our day isn’t as good and problems arise.

Joy August 17th, 2009 at 10:11 am

This week while doing my shopping rounds at the local thrift stores I found some age appropriate Bible story books and thought back to this lesson. Although I am not currently homeschooling, I think about doing it. I purchased the books with the thought in mind that sitting together with my family and reading these together while the dishwasher cleans the breakfast dishes would be a good start to the morning routine that we already have. Thank you for the suggestions, I probably would have just passed these books by, but instead I saw a door opened and went through.

Emily August 17th, 2009 at 10:26 am

What a great suggestion to include my husband in the teaching of Bible study, his favorite subject, with the authority to select the material – here he thought he’d jump in when they were ready to learn chemistry and physics! If he does it in the evening, we can still start circle time with prayer and the Bible verse(s) he’ll repeat that evening for reinforcement. I like Anne Elliott suggestions 1-10 and the Carrier’s character/core-value/teachable moment suggestions in the links you provided. Thanks for those. The Carrier’s and your reminders to reinforce positive behaviors are vital but so easy to miss. Thanks again.

Jean August 17th, 2009 at 11:32 am

I did not find Ruth Beechick soon enough! She has such wisdom, explained succinctly and practically. I’m going to look for her 4th grade and up book – thank you for recommending it!
I’m also going to try adding circle time to our day, as a way to get everyone focused and with the same goals for the day. You are so right when you say a lack of routine leads to carelessness. Thanks for your hard work!

Linda M August 17th, 2009 at 11:44 am

I am still anxiously awaiting the Ruth Beechick books from my library. It would be nice to not spend 100′s of dollars on K-2/3 for the basic three R’s! If one thinks about it, we who know the basics should really be able to pass that knowledge on to our children.

Anna August 17th, 2009 at 12:22 pm

Even thought we pray we don’t often pray together.
Thank you for your encouragement and ideas!

Rosie August 17th, 2009 at 12:26 pm

I appreciate the reminder to reward the good behaviour. Too often we only see the negative. I also would like to implement some of the games suggested.

Shari Cap August 17th, 2009 at 1:18 pm

Very interesting and relevant information! We really need to have a more organized morning routine! Thanks so much!

Jennifer August 17th, 2009 at 1:36 pm

Thank you so much for these weekly lessons, money is really tight right now and these free lessons have really been keeping me going. Thank you so much!

Sarah August 17th, 2009 at 2:29 pm

I absolutely loved all the little extras that were attached to this lesson and the associated information it offered. Thank you so much!

Julie Carlisle August 17th, 2009 at 2:38 pm

I agree with the focus being all about prayer and scripture reading. It’s even more important now than ever. It’s one of the reasons I choose to homeschool. Thanks!

Danielle August 17th, 2009 at 2:48 pm

I love the reminder to base our “school” on Jesus and his teachings.

Dawn Wathen August 17th, 2009 at 3:01 pm

It is so refreshing to be inspired and reminded of the important things in homeschooling…prayer is KEY, and if we are doing it within ourselves without inspiration and surrender to God then it is all for naught. THANKS for being there for us…I pray God give me the ability to be everything I need to be for my five children I am homeschooling and that I be blessed to be able to continue your course.

God Bless Always!!!

Wendy August 17th, 2009 at 3:27 pm

I had no idea that this information would be available to me and my family. My husband definitely wants to be a part of educating our boys and having him do the Bible time is such a great idea. Especially since we have boys…what a great model. It was funny to see that you assigned the 3 Rs by R. Beechick because a friend of mine who has been homeschooling for a long time gave them to me a week and a half ago so I had already gotten to read most of the books. They seem to be so doable, but my boys are not ready yet. I really appreciate this time to be VERY prepared when the time comes. The circle time is going excellent and we have read books, prayed, sang and next are hoping to try one of the games you included. Thank you again! Blessings to you and your family.

Linda August 17th, 2009 at 3:34 pm

Thank you for this. I’ve been looking for a way to incorporate Bible study into our day. I love the way Foundations breaks down the study by week. This will really help us dive into the Lord’s word even better.

Helisa August 17th, 2009 at 3:57 pm

Thank you. Yes, the Bible is the foundation!

Frances August 17th, 2009 at 3:57 pm

It has been wonderful to read this article it has helped me to refocus. Reminding me that bring “School” home is not really what it is all about.. making the Bible central and learning about what a wonderful God we have is the core of learning. Thanks!

Cynthia Graven August 17th, 2009 at 5:50 pm

It is absolutely true that the Bible must be the foundation of our homeschool. I am also pleased that you mentioned the need to TEACH character-deliberately and with a plan. I recently left a small private Christian school, where, despite repeated requests from teachers to facilitate school-wide character training, including teaching and rewarding, no character curriculum was provided. The teaching of it was hit-and-miss, as the already overworked teachers could fit it in. As you might expect, the practice of virtuous attitudes and behaviors was hit-and-miss, as the untaught children accidentally displayed it. What I love about this lesson is that you clearly understand that the Bible is not only the foundation for a good homeschool, it is the foundation for teaching and learning excellent character, because it is the foundation for a Spirit-led life, as God’s righteousness is formed in His children.

I can hardly wait to get started, as the Lord is using your lessons to whet my appetite for teaching and to nudge the flow of my creative juices. God is good.

LE August 17th, 2009 at 7:22 pm

I am a single mom with to boys 14 and 11. I am really liking the idea of the the Bible and prayer time be the center. As for character-building I have made that a major point in raising my children and I love that you have brought it forward to remind parents that character is learned. Thanks for the study.

Lynne August 17th, 2009 at 9:06 pm

There is so much in so few pages and the comments are great to learn from as well. It is great to have the list of games for circle time all in one place. We don’t do them first thing but the toddler and preschooler love it when they can join the “students” in their activities.

Vicki Feaster August 17th, 2009 at 9:56 pm

Thanks for the extra information, including the sample Bible study!

Karen Johnson August 17th, 2009 at 9:56 pm

I really liked the ideas about the importance of praise under Basic #2-Character Training c)Reward good behavior…with praise, verbal or written. I love the suggestion to “Use the power of your words to effect positive change in your children’s lives.” That was quite encouraging to me.
My 13-year-old son, who has some special needs, was baptized a few weeks ago, along with some of the other kids and teens in the special needs ministry at our church. I think that all the love and joy surrounding this made a strong, positive impression on him. His main Sunday School teacher told me that this Sunday he came into the room and said,”I’m out of control today,” and she said,”Great! Now would be a good time for you to work on self-control then.” He thought about it and said,”Yea..aaa.” (Like,”I’m not so sure about that, but I’ll try.”) She told me that she could tell that he was using self-control the rest of the class time, and she was very proud of him. It made me feel so good to hear about this.
Back to Lesson B…I also greatly appreciated the practical suggestions for things to do during Morning Circle Time, such as singing, instrument-playing, worship, prayer, exercise, and games (and it even included ideas for four specific games, which I found very helpful).
I have bought and am reading a few books about homeschooling, and two of my favorites have to do with virtues/character education. I would highly recommend both of them for anyone who is interested in these types of books. They are:
(1) Core Virtues:A Literature-based program in character education, K-6, by Mary Beth Klee
(This book is based on the Core Knowledge program, but it can easily be used by anyone interested in combining character education and literature.)
(2) Books That Build Character:A Guide to Teaching Your Children Moral Values Through Stories, by William Kilpatrick and Gregory and Suzanne M. Wolfe

Jennifer August 18th, 2009 at 7:18 am

I really enjoyed this second lesson … it’s helpful to be reminded of the basics when there is so much curriculum, styles, etc. out there vying for our attention! I especially enjoyed the extras that came with the lesson … thanks!

sherry g. August 18th, 2009 at 9:24 am

One of the things that we have struggled with most during our tenure as home educators is developing that consistent morning routine. My “old nature” wants to be left alone to do as I “feel” at the moment or see fit for that particular day. While it is certainly necessary to remain flexible and open to God’s plan for the day, He is a God of order and our days do move more smoothly when everyone knows what is expected and what comes next. My prayer is to begin anew in discipling my children in establishing an order for the day and then sticking with it. Just another thought…we have come to associate “discipline” with “discipling.” Same word origins and implied meanings. Training our children in the way they should go (i.e. in the nurture and admonition of the Lord) is discipling them in the ways of the Lord. That is what we do…discipline is what we are developing in them as a measurable fruit of the Spirit. They are being Spirit-filled so that they might be Spirit-led and empowered to make the right choices and grow in the knowledge and grace of the Lord Jesus Christ. God’s Word is profitable for teaching, correction, reproof, instruction in righteousness…it is our position that “this” is what discipline and discipling is all about. Discipline is not exclusively punishment, but it does include both the positive and negative consequences of our behavior. Those consequences are both necessary in order for the proper laying of the foundation for positive behavior choices. Appreciate very much the reminder that God’s Word is not “a” subject in school, but rather “the” subject upon which all others are based.
Thanks again for food for thought and practical daily application to our homeschools!

Renee August 18th, 2009 at 9:48 am

Since I have been homeschooling for awhile, I’ve sat and nodded my head at so much of what you’ve written. But I’ve been thinking at the same time about how I USE to do that. I’ve forgotten about the simple, most meaningful things in school life. And making it fun too!! Starting our day with prayer and reading God’s Word is what we have been missing these last couple years. We need a new routine for starting our day. Thank you for the reminder.

sandy August 18th, 2009 at 10:00 am

I would have to agree that these reminders are just as much affirmation as they are information. It is great to remember to keep first things first and to set the atmosphere of our whole day by committing it to the Lord. thanks for your organized and thoughtful lessons.

Candace S August 18th, 2009 at 10:02 am

Great, great, great!

Melissa August 18th, 2009 at 10:27 am

I absolutely LOVE circle time! Any time that attitudes get out of control, or things are getting chaotic, we come back to our blanket and talk out what we need to do and pray over whatever issue we’re having. It is amazing and is improving my children’s prayers, too!

Mrs. Hewett August 18th, 2009 at 1:50 pm

Again, an excellent lesson! I’m still fine tuning our plans for the school year and this lesson helped remind me to keep it simple. Thank you Terri.

Gay Taunton August 18th, 2009 at 4:46 pm

Yes prayer…we begin each day with corporate prayer and it puts me in the right heart/mind mode for school. I hope it also models prayer and worship for my daughter.

Thanks Terri for bringing us to what really matters.

Nancy August 18th, 2009 at 10:29 pm

I really enjoyed this week. Ichecked with my library and to my suprise no one ever heard of Ruth Beechick. But yet they had Mcguffey educational series.

Karen Craft August 19th, 2009 at 2:29 am

I love your suggestions for the circle time! It would be such a great way to start the day. I will probably need to set a timer so we don’t go over.

Denise August 19th, 2009 at 9:44 pm

Emphasis on daily devotions as a family is a must! I especially like having it be Dad-led; that doesn’t get to happen in our home. Time in prayer should be modeled for our children and encouraging them to pray for each other as well is so important. Developing a daily routine is ESSENTIAL for homeschoolers so that we all don’t live under the “tyranny of the urgent.” The Beechick books are excellent–a must-read for any beginning HS family.

Lillian August 20th, 2009 at 11:24 pm

Can you believe that as a first timer…my head swimming with this curriculum and that perfect set of filers, etc…I totally blanked out these vital basics. I’m a bit ashamed.

Basics #1-3 are firmly rooted in my heart,mind, and agenda now.

I was glad to find Ruth Beechick’s book at my library which combines all three of your recommended reads since they didn’t have them as separate books.

Michelle August 24th, 2009 at 2:02 pm

Great reminders for what we should be putting first as the most important part of our day. One of the great advantages of homeschooling is that we can CONSISTENTLY work on building character in our kids, without having it undermined for the better part of the day.

Charlie August 24th, 2009 at 2:14 pm

knowledgequestmaps.com to GoogleReader!

Carla August 24th, 2009 at 2:56 pm

Now in our 5th year of school at home I find that my “basic” reasons for homeschooling are somewhat different than when we started.
God’s Word and our childrens’ Character of of primary importance as we plan the structure for our basic academic instruction.

Deb August 25th, 2009 at 12:25 pm

I love the idea of Husband teaching the Word. It’s an encouragment for my family.

Debbie August 25th, 2009 at 9:34 pm

Character development is an area we need to work on. I appreciated the reminder that it’s a heart issue – not a matter of blind obedience. The link to the Values Driven Family looks like a great resource to help us on our journey.

Alexia August 31st, 2009 at 11:23 am

Interweaving our faith has definitely taken our homeschooling to a new level and straightened out our priorities!

Kristina August 31st, 2009 at 2:48 pm

Thanks for another great lesson full of incredible reminders! Prayer before schooling definitely makes a difference! A morning circle time hasn’t really worked in our family, but a regular routine does.

Kellyann August 31st, 2009 at 3:46 pm

This lesson is helpful as well. I am thankful for your help in setting out the basics. I think sometimes I overwhelm myself when my girls are still very young.

Sandra Reade August 31st, 2009 at 8:36 pm

Great lesson here. I am still learning about the different learning styles with my girls. I agree with you on not bringing school home. I was a teachers aide before I brought my kids home from public school and it was hard to undo the PS routines and styles. Kind of had to unlearn!!
Ass 2. I do have one of Ruth Beechicks books here at home. I will try and get my hands on the others.
Thanks for a great lesson.

Jackie Penn September 1st, 2009 at 6:14 pm

The info is wonderful and I can certainly use it right now. Many thanks.

Rebecca September 14th, 2009 at 1:46 pm

Thank you for mentioning the importance of taking the time to pray with your children at the start of school. This is something that I have wanted to implement but never did until this year.

Some of the things in the lessons we are already doing. Others I had not thought of doing them.

We are in the early elementary ages and learning as we go along. Thanks for providing these helpful lessons to give me new ideas on how to better do things.

185 Responses to “Homeschooling ABCs Lesson B”

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