Free copy of recent TOS online edition

As a homeschooler I love to have good resources to encourage me in my journey with my kids.

One of the first thing I did before I even started homeschooling was to subscribe to The Old Schoohouse Magazine and I never regretted it.

The Old Schoohouse Magazine will be available digitally only starting in January 2012.   And to give you a taste of it, they are currently offering the most recent one for free online.  

Click on the image below to access it.  You can save it and upload it on your favorite e-reader.  I absolutely love to have mine on the iPad!  That way I can bring it everywhere I want to go. 

To get your own copy today, click on the cover below and voilà!

Enjoy the reading!

TOS launched a new blog

Homeschoolers everywhere… Did you know that The Old Schoolhouse Magazine has launched a new TOS blog?

 

You can find it at http://blog.thehomeschoolmagazine.com/.   

 

This blog will keep you up-to-date with news regarding The Old Schoolhouse magazine and it’s upcoming digital edition on a monthly basis.   Also, every week you can get a special gift from TOS.    This week, you can download the E-Book And Then Mama Said … It Takes Time to Learn to Read by Gena Suarez.

To be on top of the news concerning TOS don’t forget to follow the new blog using  Google Friend Connect and/or Networked Blogs.  You don’t want to miss anything.  

“New and Improved” The Old Schoolhouse Magazine–coming January 2012!

In the 21st century, you see more and more e-readers and tablets popping out on the market.   This also brought the publishers to find new ways to reach out to readers all around the world.

Recently I have learned that the homeschool magazine I am receiving through the regular mail is undergoing an enormous change.  The Old Schoolhouse magazine will become totally digital starting on January 2012 which means that paper copies won’t be available anymore.

The bonus for this new and improve magazine is that we will be able to receive it  on a monthly basis instead of quarterly.   More columnists are also involved in this new version and with it more reading to do as well for the homeschooler mom.

I’m curious about this edition of the magazine.   I know that many have mixed feelings about it but in the long run I always found that change is necessary to become better.

I must admit that I am blessed to own an iPad on which I will be able to upload my magazines and read on the go if needed.   Not everyone are that fortunate.   With Christmas coming around the corner, I would like to suggest that you consider blessing you wife with a tablet PC, iPad or any other e-reader device that will allow her to read her favourite magazine to get inspired and encouraged in her homeschool journey with your kids.

Watch the little video below to discover "The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine's All-Star-Cast of Columnists!

TOS Birthday Bash

The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine is celebrating their 10th anniversary with a Birthday Bash. You won't want to miss the excitement and the FREEBIES.

1) Visit TOS's new Homeschooling with Heart blog (http://blog.thehomeschoolmagazine.com/birthday-bash/) and learn about three exciting Birthday Bash events featuring freebies, daily door prizes, a meet-and greet with TOS's new columnists, and loads of fun for everyone!  

In a nutshell here’s the three main events in the next ten days.

First, join the Schoolhouse Birthday Bash blog hop September 20-30th! Enjoy interviews with a Family of Columnists – your favorite homeschool experts! You’ll hear from homeschooling veterans, artists, Classical educators, special needs experts, and many more.

Visit the Homeschooling with Heart blog everyday to see who is being interviewed and to get to know the Family of Columnists! We’ll hear from Paul & Gena Suarez, Molly Green, Karen Andreola, Adam Andrews, Amy Barr, Ruth Beechick, Rea Berg, Leigh Bortins, Sheila Campbell, Kendra Fletcher, Mike Haplin, Amelia Harper, Andy Harris, Mary Hood, Jessica Hulcy, Pat Knepley, Denise Mira, Andrew Pudewa, Malia Russell, Zan Tyler, Diana Waring, Rebekah Wilson, and the wonderful blog hosts for this event!

Second, Thursday, September 22^nd – 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m (EST): Join the Schoolhouse Birthday Bash Facebook Party!

Just stop by the TOS Facebook page during the event for meaningful fellowship with featured columnists, TOS staff, and homeschooling friends. We will have lively chat, homeschooling tips, freebies, and of course some fabulous giveaways!

You can RSVP on our Facebook event page!

Finally, Thursday, September 29^th – 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. (EST): The excitement continues at the online Meet & Greet with the TOS Family of Columnists webinar event.

Hurry and register now for an evening filled with guest speakers, freebies, and more door prizes—this event is open only to the FIRST 1,000 registrants.

You can RSVP on our Facebook event page!

2) Read all about TOS's new interactive digital magazine with more than double the content: http://thehomeschoolmagazine.com/BirthdayBash/. Discover the amazing features the magazine will have in January as TOS moves from a quarterly to a monthly publication.

TOS is changing from a print magazine to an interactive digital magazine. TOS will continue to offer the encouragement, educational tools, access to great products and much more in your inbox twelve times a year!   The magazine won’t be printed anymore but sent to you digitally.    Subscribers will have many bonuses while accessing the Teacher’s Toolbox a members-only website in which you can find calendars, free e-books and unit study, links to educational websites and much more.

3) Get 9 complete unit studies with the big TOS FREEBIE: The Curiosity Files™ 9 Pack E-Book Bundle. These fascinating science units help children discover some unusually interesting subjects . . . you know, the unfamiliar, zany, and strange things of nature that kids are so attracted to Everyone who goes to this link will receive the complete set FREE: http://blog.thehomeschoolmagazine.com/?page_id=355

4) Enjoy reading the free TOS Summer digital issue: http://www.thehomeschoolmagazine-digital.com/thehomeschoolmagazine/freegift/#pg2

Hope to see you at the Birthday Bash celebrations! You won't want to miss a minute of the fun, freebies, door prizes, and great featured guests! See you there.

And be sure to subscribe by email or RSS on the right side of this blog because as a member of Homeschool Mom Squad, I’ll be regularly giving you all the latest news from TOS!   You don’t want to miss anything!

GREAT NEWS!

As a member of the newly formed Homeschool Moms Squad, I received two one-year interactive digital subscriptions for a giveaway to celebrate the 10th anniversary of The Old Schoolhouse Magazine.

There are many ways you can win…

1) Subscribe to my RSS feed on the right side of this blog and let me know about it.
2) Like Canadianladybug Reviews! on facebook and tell me about it.
3) Follow Canadianladybug Reviews! on twitter and like me you twitter name. http://blog.thehomeschoolmagazine.com
4) Follow Canadianladybug Reviews! with Google Friends on the right side of this blog and tell me about it.
5) Follow me via Networked Blogs on the right side of this blog and tell me about it.
6) Tweet about this contest and give me the link about it. (Daily Tweet) (1 entry per day)
7) Blog about this contest and give me you link – Give me your link and enter three times in the comment section.

Don’t forget to include your email for each steps. No email means I will have to pick someone else. I need to be able to contact you if you win! Random.org will be use to determine the winner. You will have 24 hours to contact me and give me your mailing address so I can send it to my contact which in turn will proceed in setting up your digital subscription!

Deadline: September 30th, 2011.

Three years of adventure and discovery

My adventure with the TOS Homeschool Crew is officially completed.

It has been a marvelous journey but my attention is called somewhere else.   I will continue to review books/products on this site and will pursue my certificate in Social Media as well.   Homeschooling is a priority in our family and already I look forward for next year where I will have a preschooler, a grade one, a grade 2 and a grade 5.    I intend to plan a schedule that will be adequate for us over the summer.

I have also marked in BOLD BLUE the products that I particularly loved and consider like gems for homeschoolers.

2008-20109 Crew Year
The Schoolhouse Planner
HelpMe2Teach
Homeschool Library Builder
Time4Learning
MediaAngels – The Missing Link: Found book
Let’s Make a Webpage ebook
Rhyme to Read
Little Man in the Map
Spears Art Studio Grades K-8
Trigger Memory Systems – Times Tales and Clean N’ Flip
Salem Ridge Press
Puppetools
Math Mammoth
Peterson Handwriting
KinderBach
Crayola Art Studio
All About Homophones
Heads Up
WriteShop Story Builders
One Year Adventure Novel
Schleich
Rocket Phonics
Bible Story Songs
Math Tutor DVD
Cadron Creek – Further Up and Further In (Narnia)
One 2 Believe – Noah’s Ark
SpellQuizzer
Homeschooling ABCs – Knowledge Quest
WriteShop Primary
Tapestry of Grace
Homeschool in the Woods – New Testament Lapbook
Memoria Press – Prima Latina and Latina Christiana I

2009-2010 Crew Year (jumped on board in March 2010)
Homeschool in the Woods – Olde World Style Maps (World and US)
Math Galaxy
All About Reading – What Am I?
Travels of Wiglinton and Wenks
Terrestria Chronicles - Books 6 & 7
Time4Learning – PreK program
TV Teacher – Alphabet Beats lower case letters
Lesson Planet
Ideal Curriculum
Cerebellum Corporation

2010-2011 Crew Year
TOS Planner
Schleich
LanSchool
Talking Fingers – Read, Write & Type!
Soli Deo Gloria – Young Hearts Longing for God (Psalms)
Collectorz Book Collector
KBTeachers.com
Wits & Wagers Family
Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary for Kids
Ten Marks
City Creek Press – Times Alive!
Curiosity Files – The Blue-Footed Booby
Kid Scoop
Zeezok Publishing Z-guide to the movies
Kinderbach
Science Weekly
Yesterday’s Classics
Monki See Vol One DVD and book
Go Trybe K-5
Talking Finger - Wordy Qwerty
Eagle Wings Considering God’s Creation

The Curiosity Files

As a member of the TOS Homeschool Crew, I never know what product I will receive.   Being in Canada makes it a little bit a mystery because I never know which company will be willing to ship in my country.   This year though I have come to accept the fact that I do live in an international country (eh!) and I had the opportunities to review more websites and PDF documents.

The Old Schoolhouse has released some new products this year called The Curiosity Files.   And I was very curious about these.   We had to pick which one we would like to review and I decided to pick the Blue-Footed Booby.  Why?   Well, I must admit that I am an ornithologist at heart.  I like birds and am attracted to them.  Whenever possible I love to learn more about them.   So having the possibility to learn more about a bird that is found in the Galapagos Islands was interesting.

Learning while investigating makes it more fun I find.  These Curiosity Files won’t disappoint you since your kids will have to read and research to find the information to complete the puzzles, quizzes, games and activities included in this fun and creative unit study.   

Not only they can practice their reading and have fun but they will learn Bible verses, cover mathematics, history and geography, explore various suggested books, practice their writing, spelling and vocabulary!   And let’s not forget about the science experiments include in this little gem of a book!

Included within the study you will have internet resources and video links to deepen the learning experience.

As I mentioned at the beginning of this review, we received the Blue-Footed Booby Curiosity Files.  And let me tell you that I am not disappointed whatsoever with the quality and the content of this beautiful unit study.    In a way, studying this magnificent bird allowed us to be transported to its island and discover its habitat.

My son Alexandre had interesting mathematics problems to do, measured the wingspan of his family members and compared with the wingspan of the Blue-Footed Booby (apparently mom has a wingspan bigger than the bird…LOL), did a fun crossword puzzle and learned quite a lot about the bird.   One other fun activity included in this unit-study is to identify the anatomy of this special bird. 

The pictures of the birds are quite stunning and I almost wish I could see one while visiting a zoo!   

If you want to discover some sample pages for the Blue-Footed Booby Curiosity Files, please click here.   I am pretty sure you will be hooked just by looking at them!

If you are looking for a challenging and complete unit-study on a specific subject that is out of the ordinary, I would strongly suggest that you explore the Curiosity Files from TOS.   I don’t think you will be disappointed…

The 9 Pack Bundle of The Curiosity Files on E-Book is available for 46$US.   The CD version is available for 49$US.  In this Bundle you would get the following titles: Blue Diamond, Dung Beetle, MRSA, Puffer Fish, Red Tide, Zombie Fire Ants, Blue-Footed Booby, Cicada Killing Wasp and Quicksand.

Individually, The Curiosity Files are 6.95$US each.  

Disclaimer: Thanks to The Old Schoolhouse for sending me the above mentioned product for review purposes as a participant of the TOS Homeschool Crew. I was not monetarily compensated for this review. Please note that the review was not influenced by the Sponsor in any way.  All opinions expressed here are only my own.

The Old Schoolhouse Magazine

When I was considering homeschooling, someone told me about The Old Schoolhouse Magazine.    I wasn’t even homeschooling yet but I decided to get a subscription to familiarized myself with the homeschool world.   And let me tell you that I wasn’t disappointed whatsoever!

I am currently in my fourth year of homeschooling and I still receive The Old Schoolhouse Magazine.   Honestly I don’t know how I would go through the year without reading the encouragements and be inspired with the ideas found in this magazine. 

I absolutely adore this magazine and I am almost stalking my postman when it is the time of receiving the new edition.   (just kidding).    My only disappointment is that the magazine doesn’t arrive as fast in Canada.   There is always a delay… and when my friends are posting that they received it on facebook, I know that my magazine will be coming soon… just not soon enough for me *grin*.

Seriously though, if you want to have inspiring reading and encouragement in your homeschool, please consider getting a subscription.   It is also a wonderful gift to give to your homeschool friend or family member! 

Right now, when you subscribe you can get freebies.   Interested?   Please read below for more details on the deal!

Merry Christmas everyone!

Canadianladybug  

 

*********************************************************

The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine has been a favorite resource for homeschoolers for years. The pages of our magazine holds informative and encouraging articles written by homeschool educators and parents like you. Because we want to spread the news far and wide about homeschooling, we are on a quest to reach 25,000+ paid subscribers by the year's end. We have three fabulous options for a REALLY great deal on our magazine, as well as some freebies, until January 2nd!

Will you choose option A?

Option A is a one year subscription (normally $25) for $7.95 to anyone in the U.S. or Canada. What a great gift idea for only $7.95! Consider buying several subscriptions for friends and family members. AND, any $7.95 purchase will result in a GIFT for you--choose any digital TOS Planner--FREE.

Will it be option B?

We have lowered the price on the ONE YEAR subscription with the Cranberries & Cream tote and the E-Book: Cranberry Christmas, all for $19.95., U.S. and Canada only.

Or will you choose option C?

Finally, we are offering our two-year subscription (U.S. and Canada) on sale for $37 with Cranberries & Cream tote, a Schoolhouse Planner of your choice, plus the E-Book: Cranberry Christmas. 

Whatever option you choose, you get freebies and a great deal! So which option, and freebies, will you choose? A, B, or C?

All subscriptions will start with our beautiful, 200 page Winter issue. Offer good on new subscriptions, renewals, and gift subscriptions in both the U.S. (overseas military included) and Canada.

And remember, shipping is always free at the Schoolhouse Store! (U.S. only)

TOS Primary Planner

Since they have first released their homeschool planner, the folks at The Old Schoolhouse has come up with a series of planners geared to the students.   Actually four different planners are available:

• Primary Planner—grades K–3
• Secondary School Planner—grades 4–6
• Middle School Planner—grades 7–8
• High School Planner—grades 9–12

I was offered to review one of these planners and I picked the Primary Planner which is geared for grades K to 3 students.  Part of me almost wish I had this product before we start the school year. 

In it I discover a wealth of interesting information geared towards kids from grade K to grade 3.    The informational Must-Know lists are interesting in itself.   Even I an adult could use some of them.    Then the child will have a series of homeschool forms to update be himself/herself when needed.   Some kids are able to write and read at an early age but most would need help.   It could be a good thing to instils independence for tracking various things like to-do list, audio/video log, books read this year, field trip log, Bible Memorization record and so on.   But keep in mind that the parent will have to help for a couple of years.

Finally, you will also find organizational forms like chores, bible reading schedule, family tree and so on.   As the child grow he/she will need to include some routine in her life (for example the bible reading).    I know my oldest is reading daily in his Bible and I think God is touching him in amazing ways through it.  

The planner is flexible.  I could print whichever form and information I need for my kids.   I don’t have to print everything.   The only disappointing fact I can see if that there some of the must-know pages that are geared toward the US (Thirteen Colonies, US Presidents, US Presidents and their wives, United States & Capitals) that we won’t use much.    Part of me would prefer to have an international version of it with more Geography of the world pages.   At the same time, I understand that The Old Schoolhouse is a magazine produced in the US and that they primarily create documents for the homeschoolers in that country.      

At the end, having a planner for the kids is interesting.    It transfer the responsibility from parent to child in a creative way.    But I would probably start using this at a higher level than grades K-3.     My oldest son who is in grade 4 right now would be more dedicated to this task than my grades K and 1 kids. 

Price: 9.95$ US directly from the TOS store.   

Specials at The Schoolhouse STORE – October 15 2010 ONLY! That’s TODAY!

  The crisp winds of autumn have blown TWO special deals into the Schoolhouse Store for ONE DAY ONLY!

Take your pick from two special deals . . . two special TOS exclusive items.

But select quickly because the two deals are available for ONE DAY ONLY—Friday, October 15, 2010!

Prices valid from 12:00:01 a.m. EST

through 12:59:59 p.m. PST on October 15, 2010.

Please read carefully—Time Sensitive

Deal A: Just $19.95 for The 2010 Schoolhouse Planner. Plus, receive the gorgeous Cranberries & Cream Homeschooling with Heart tote bag for free! You can be organized and enjoy a well-planned home and school. Perfect timing for holiday planning. Read all about The 2010 Schoolhouse Planner here.

Normally a $53.95 value! The 2010-2011 Schoolhouse Planner is regularly priced at $39 AND the tote bag is a $14.95 value.

You save 63% in all—for ONE DAY ONLY.

You’ll immediately download the E-Book version of The 2010-2011 Schoolhouse Planner. Your Cranberries & Cream tote bag will ship in mid-November—arriving in time to enjoy the festive color during Thanksgiving and Christmas. Carry you heart for homeschooling everywhere you go with the beautiful tote bag.

OR

Deal B: $19.95 for the Spring 2010 Expo To Go OR Fall 2010 Expo To Go, and receive the Cranberries & Cream Homeschooling with Heart tote bag for FREE.

If you already own the Spring 2010 Expo To Go, simply write the word FALL in the comment field at check out, and we’ll send you an email notification when the MP3 recording are ready at the end of October.

Normally a $34.94 value! The Expo To Go is regularly priced at $19.99 AND the tote bag is a $14.95 value.

You save 43% in all—for ONE DAY ONLY.

Enjoy expert advice and encouragement from over 25 homeschooling experts with the full MP3 collection from the May 2010 Schoolhouse Expo. You’ll hear from such popular homeschooling speakers such as Susan Wise Bauer, Carol Barnier, Andrew Pudewa, Todd Wilson, Davis Carman, and more!

Your Cranberries & Cream tote bag will ship in mid-November—arriving in time to enjoy the festive color during Thanksgiving and Christmas. It’s a fun way to show off your heart for homeschooling!

Either offer is only $19.95 and both offers give you the beautiful Cranberries & Cream Homeschooling with Heart tote bag for free.

But you have to act fast—the wind is changing and this offer is only here for one day!

Prices valid from 12:00:01 a.m. EST through 12:59:59 p.m. PST on October 15, 2010.

Schoolhouse Expo in October

It's back to homeschool time and registration is open for the online Schoolhouse Expo, October 4-8.   It's five days of top homeschool speakers, fellowship, and fun door prizes.
Save $5 per ticket! Register between August 16 and midnight August 22, and you'll pay only $19.99. Plus you'll receive over $200 in free E-Books.
You'll be inspired by speakers including: Zan Tyler, Dr. Jay Wile, Jeannie Fulbright,Carol Barnier, Diana Waring, Todd Wilson, Davis Carman, Kim Kautzer, Lee Binz, and many more!
A special teen track is planned--the entire family will definitely want to listen to these special sessions. We've also planned a special focus on a topic that touches every homeschool--writing. Plus, an array of other topics that will inform and inspire you throughout your homeschooling years.
Don't forget, MP3 copies of each session comes with your LIVE event ticket.
Two special preconference shows on August 24 and September 21 with Dr. 
Jay Wile, Jeannie Fulbright, and Kim Kautzer!
Register starting 12:01 a.m. on Monday, August 16.
The theme this fall is "Celebrate Homeschooling!" We're going to celebrate the unique blessings of homeschooling, the beginning of another school year, our families, and the freedom to tailor our children's education to best meet their needs.
If you cannot make the Live event,  then the October Expo To Go is just your ticket! You'll reserve MP3s from all of the workshops. This week only, pay just $14.95!
You can visit either of these links to get more information.
http://www.schoolhouseexpo.com/
or
http://bit.ly/aWHFiL



Disclosure:   I will receive free Expo-To-Go tickets in exchange for my post.

TOS Homeschool Planner

It’s August and we are at the first meeting of the homeschool association in town.    Every month, homeschoolers from around the city meet in the basement of the church on Learning Blvd. to encourage each other and learn from each other.
  
Meet Marie a seasoned homeschooler, mother of six who has been homeschooling for 20 years.    She is chatting with Charlotte a young mom of two kids who has been homeschooling for 2 years.    Let’s listen in to their conversation.

Marie: Hi Charlotte.  How was your summer?
  
Charlotte:  We had a blast relaxing after our busy school year.    We went camping a lot and the boys loved fishing with their dad.  

Marie:  Sounds fun!   Are you prepare to face a new year with them?

Charlotte: That’s my problem.   I feel ill-equipped in this area.    I need more structure especially with both of them now in learning mode.    I find I can’t keep track of every activity we do not to mention that I always forget some of the learning experiences we did during the year.    To be honest, I am quite stressed about it because I know it is important to track what they do and learn.   I am so discouraged right now, I don’t know what to do.

Marie: Mmmm!   I know the feeling.  I went through this as well.   I found a great tool to help me.

Charlotte: Really?   What is it?   Does it cost lots of money?   Where can I get it?   How do you use it?

Marie: My goodness….  you are full of question aren’t you. 

Charlotte: As  you can see, I am desperate.   Anything  you can share with me would be an great help.   After all, you have been homeschooling for a long time and you are a great mentor.

Marie:  Well thank you.    Do you know about The Old Schoolhouse Magazine?

Charlotte: Yes I’ve  heard about it.  Why?

Marie: Well, they also produce various pdf documents which can be an a great help for homeschoolers.   A few years ago, they offered their first TOS Schoolhouse Planner to help homeschoolers get more organized.   This was such a hit among homeschoolers that every year they perfect it and release a new edition.   This year the TOS 2010 Schoolhouse Planner has even more forms to use for the homeschool and for home.

Charlotte: Really?   For home as well.   WOW!  Sounds like it is complete.

Marie: It is.   You can keep track of what they learn, the books they read, the experiments they do, the field trips, and much more.   The 2010 Schoolhouse Planner also has a series of articles that you can read for encouragement, fun information about various subjects as well as recipes every month.

Charlotte:  Recipes?  Well that could solve my problem of finding new recipes to tryout.   We are kind of tired of always eating the same thing.   

Marie: I’m telling you Charlotte, it is worth it.    Simply go to The OldSchoolhouse Magazine website and get it.  It is only 39$ with over 614 pages you have lots of options for organizing your homeschool and your home.  

Charlotte: It definetively sounds like something I would need.   Thanks for sharing that with me.   Are you going to the field trip next month?

Marie: Yes we are.   Oh it is about to start.  How about we go sit down and listen to the panel tonight?   I have a feeling that we are both going to learn interesting information tonight.

Charlotte:  I’m following you.   I am always energized when I come out of these meetings.




Sounds like Marie has shared a wonderful products with Charlotte don’t you think.   But are you wondering how Charlotte will use this TOS 2010 Schoolhouse Planner?   Let’s fast forward a month later when the two bumped into each other during the field trip at Upper SmithVillage.

Charlotte:  Marie!   Marie!   Wait up a minute.

Marie:   Oh hi Charlotte.  How is it going?

Charlotte:   Wonderful!   I wanted to thank you again for taking the time to encourage me to check out the 2010 Schoolhouse Planner at the last meeting.    I bought it that very night when I got home.   You were right, it is an absolute time saver!    I mean only 39$ for so many forms and encouragement!   WOW!    I’m super excited and it reduced my stress a lot.   Now I can enjoy homeschooling without worrying about how to track our progress.   Everything is in one binder and the boys even help me to keep it up-to-date.    It is simply wonderful.    I don’t know how I lived without it.    The 2010 Schoolhouse Planner has become a life saver for me!

Marie:   I am glad to hear this.    Have you tried the budget planner?

Charlotte: Yes I did.   With this hard year we just went through it is much easier to know where the money goes and how much I can splurge on homeschool material.    I also set up a chores planner so that every one in the family can be participating in taking care of something in the house.   This makes life so much easier in our house.  The boys now set up the table and empty the dishwasher without complains.   

Marie:   I’m glad you like it.    It is a life saver for me too even though I am a seasoned homeschooler.

Charlotte:   I am so grateful that you told me about it.   I am already planning to get the new edition when it comes out next year.  The articles I am reading are so wonderful and informative.
 
Marie:   Yes I agree.   Charlotte, how about we have lunch in the park at noon?   We can talk more while the kids play in the field.

Charlotte:   Sounds like a great idea.   The boys want to go to the Mill now, see you later Marie.

Marie:  Okay.   My kids want to go see the broom maker.    See you at noon.




Isn't it wonderful?  Sounds like the TOS 2010 Schoolhouse Planner was a hit in Charlotte’s household.    It is packed with a variety of forms and planners as well as articles and fun facts to read throughout the year.    Did I picked your curiosity?   Thinking you would need it for your own homeschool?  It is currently available at The OldSchoolhouse Store for the price of 39$.   Simply go to http://thehomeschoolmagazine.com/TOSEBookSellSheets/Modules/10Planner/10Planner.htm  to purchase it and let the 2010 Schoolhouse Planner help you organize your homeschool and your home!  

Disclaimer:  I am independent contractor for TOS (as member of the TOS Homeschool Crew).  I have used the product mentioned in this post.  This post is a sell sheet for the 2010 Schoolhouse Planner.   I created the above ad as an official entry in the 2010 Schoolhouse Planner Ad Contest.

Travel the World!

Travel the World!  June 2010 Module of The 2009 Schoolhouse Planner
Published at The Old Schoolhouse Magazine

Set sail!   Not only the TOS Homeschool Crew 2010-2011 is officially started but this product will help you to discover the world.    Travel the World! is a module about geography and it is perfect for students getting an introduction to geography or for reviewing your knowledge on the subject.

Ah!  Geography is indeed a touchy subject for homeschoolers.   It was something I was wondering a lot at the end of this school year because I knew I needed to find something to cover both Canadian and international geography.   Well I was blessed beyond measure since then and funny enough this product is literally the cherry on top of the sunday.   This module will give you a definition of geography, explain to you the Earth in every geographical aspects and describe to you and your children the various continents we can found on Earth.    Then you will have word games, fill in the blanks, crosswords, puzzles, rebus and more all covering the subject of geography. 

You will also put a lapbook together, color some pages representing the various continents and practice your copywork with scriptures, quotes or facts about Earth and geography in both manuscript and cursive. There is even an high school section in this module.

Finally, to top it off, two recipes are included to help you discover tastes from other part of the world.  My only sad point is that not all the continents were covered in the recipe section – like asian, indian, african, australian,… recipes would have been fabulous in this module.

What to see a sample of the ebook before purchasing it?  Not a problem because you simply have to go to this page to take a peek at it!  

If you don’t have anything to cover basic geography and want to start looking into it, I suggest that you check out Travel The World! June 2010 Module of the 2009 Schoolhouse Planner.   It a good start and from there you can expand and discover each continents on a deeper level on your own.    So grab your suitcase and start discovering planet Earth with your kids!   It is so worth it.

Travel The World! June 2010 Module of The 2009 Schoolhouse Planner is available for 7.95$ US at The Old Schoolhouse Magazine store.

This review was possible because I received a free copy of Travel The World! June 2010 Module of The 2009 Schoolhouse Planner while being on the TOS Homeschool Crew 2010-2011.

Fourth of July sale @ TOS

1776 was a spectacular year, and it's a smashing, save-more-money price! Grab your subscription to The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine during their four-day Fourth of July sale, and check out the craziest price on July 1 only! Receive a 2-year subscription, free Homeschooling with Heart tote bag, and five FREE E-Books for just $17.76! While supplies last. U.S. and Canadian residents. July 2 through July 4 the unprecedented savings continue. The sparks are flying at TOS Magazine . . . join in the celebration and savings! Get the details here.

Molly’s Money-Saving Digest – June 2010

Molly’s Money-Saving Digest June 2010 Published at The Old Schoolhouse
Home business.   This information only hit a spot in me.   Why?  Simply because we do have a home business.   Our business is in IT (Information Technology) and we mostly build databases or websites for various clients (mostly government departments/agencies in our city).   But we also have released a new website this year and I was curious to see what this digest had to say about starting and managing an home business.
First, let me tell you that you will also find the usual information in this digest; what is on sale this month, the special dates of the month, tools for organization as well as the famous recipes!
Ah! For the recipes only I am blessed this month.   Amidst of the menu suggested for a week, I discovered a lemon pie and a Key Lime Cheesecake.    Yum!
On the craft side – the subject of using old wool sweaters and “felt” them is touched briefly.   I would like more details on this – more like a step-by-step process as this is very interesting I find.   I wouldn’t mind trying it out to make a dress for my daughter.
Now on the topic of home business you will find a detailed article with interviews with adults, interviews with kids as well as suggestions on some home business you can explore.    There is also an real-life story of two homeschool moms who started a home business together called Activity Bags, LLC. 
Once again, the Molly’s Money-Saving Digest is packed with interesting ideas, recipes and something to inform you on how to make money from home.
Do you want to get the Molly’s Money-Saving Digest June 2010 titled Home Sweet Home (Business)?   It is simple.   Just click on the link (http://www.theoldschoolhousestore.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=166&products_id=16075) and you will go directly to the page where you can purchase it.   Wondering what the price is?   4.95$ only!   And it contains many ideas on home business for you or your kids.

Molly Goes Camping!

Molly goes camping e-book
Published at TOS

Camping. A simple word that will create fear in some and excitement in others.

I camped a lot since I was little with my parents and with the girl guides. So when I married my husband, I thought that camping would be part of our lives. So we got a tent which was red. We took a big one as we knew we would have kids eventually. Our camping days in a tent was short lived as hubby didn’t like it as much. So we got a pop-up trailer which we love but there wasn’t any bathroom/shower in ours. We had bought it used. After a few years we upgraded to a travel trailer which we love. The main reason behind the purchase of our pop-up trailer and then our travel trailer was to make memories with our kids. We don’t regret splurging on this as we had tons of memorable memories traveling with it.

Molly’s e-book about camping will bring you fun stories from campers and how their family discovered the fun time anyone can have while camping. Camping is a fun way to discover nature, pursue home schooling in a fun way while we discover fishing, bird watching and so much more.

Last year, I had the privileged to see a turtle laying her eggs. This year, I saw black chickadees gathering some materials to build their nest and had the priviledge of taking a picture of brand new Robin’s babies.

 

The experiences and events my kids are having while fishing with their dad are priceless. I remember the time that my husband called me on radio to tell me to pack the baby because we had to go to the hospital. He was still in the boat with our other kids. He was coming to get me and we drove to the closest hospital while he drove with a hook stuck in his finger thanks to the fish he had caught. 

Camping is indeed helping us to make wonderful memories and if you doubt me you need to read the stories in the e-book Molly Goes Camping. You will also found ideas on how to make an old trailer new, recipes for your camping adventure, a checklist that will help you not to forget anything as well as an interesting article on the process of dehydrating your food. I was always (and still is) curious about a dehydrator. This article might just give me the push to purchase one as I can see how to use it for our outings on the lake or just going for a walk in the woods. It can also be useful for our field trips we do during the year. And don’t forget the bug spray as it is an essential item to have in your luggage while camping.

But just for the experience to build a fire pit, discover the lake shores, walk in the forest and explore God’s creation, I think it is worth it. I would encourage every family to try camping a few times before making your final decision. Molly Goes Camping will give you many ideas in how to start your camping adventure. Encourage the kids to be involved in any shape or form they can. Whether you are a seasoned camper or a family considering camping, this e-book will encourage you, make you laugh and help you to plan in advance a camping trip to remember. And don’t hesitate to bring your little ones with you – it is so worth it even if you have to bring playpen, stroller and exersaucer. They will have a blast!

Molly Goes Camping is now in the store for $8.95 – simply click here to get it!

Travel Kits: A Simple Way to Bless Others

Travel Kits: A Simple Way to Bless Others
Published at The Old Schoolhouse

When I was younger, my parents took me to Florida. I was probably 7 or 8 years old. And my mom had the wonderful idea of putting a basket together with little things to keep me occupied on the trip there. And she even changed it for the trip back home. I still have wonderful memories about this special basket of mine and I remember clearly how it looked like. So imagine my surprised when I had the opportunity to review a new e-book called Travel Kits. I didn’t know there was a name to this kind of idea…

This wonderful e-book will give your tons of ideas on what to pack for who and how to present the package. There are ideas for boys, girls, and moms and dads. The ideas even go to wrap the individual gifts which I like so it will keep the suspense for a longer period. I think I would allow my kids to open one gift once in a while over a period of time depending on how long the trip is.

In the 21^st century, I find it is easier to pack fun things for kids. There are more games available that they could play in the car. And don’t forget the Nintendo DS and the iTouch/iPad! But as any kind of video games, time restriction should be set up.

Consequently, this ebook also offers some ideas of games to play the whole family together. And it contains a list of helpful websites for traveling families, recipes, a list of books to read, and much more. For us this e-book will come in handy as we travel a lot over the summer with our RV.

 

Just to give you an example, we travelled to PA, MA, ME, NB and PE two years ago and we had to be creative to keep our kids patient during the long drives. I had packed books and crayons as well as Adventures in Odyssey. We had music for kids as well as the Narnia series on CD. We had a great time even though some days were long in the RV.  And since we are looking into traveling in Vermont in May, I am planning to put in practice some ideas I have found in this e-book titled Travel Kits: A Simple Way to Bless Others. The ideas in this book can be adapted to any age groups in your family.

Have fun while traveling – leave the stress at home. Plan in advance and your kids  will have a blast!

You can purchase Travel Kits: A Simple Way to Bless Others at http://www.theoldschoolhousestore.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=191_201&products_id=15670.

Mother`s Day Download N Go Bible Study

Mother’s Day Download N Go Unit Study

Amanda Bennett and TOS

Mother’s Day is fast approaching and before we arrive to it nothing is better than to discover where it comes from, don’t you think? And the best way to do this is definitively to use the new Download N Go Unit Study that will cover Mother’s Day.

Once again you will be blessed with panoply of activities to keep you kids occupied during the week before this celebration. I even think that it would be a perfect opportunity for dads to get involved in the home school and do this unit study with their kids. Expect quality and diversity in the Mother’s Day Unit Study as you will cover history, crafts, geography, cooking, planning a special day and more. And the internet links included in this special unit study are fabulous as usual.

This year, my kids were planning ahead and wanted to bring me breakfast in bed but since we are planning to be on a mini-vacation somewhere in the US, we will have to adapt ourselves on Mother’s Day.

My only disappointment is that almost all the books suggested are not available at my library (throughout the city even!). It makes me wonder what happened to all the Christian books they used to have. I have heard through the grapevine that they were removing them from the shelves for whatever reason. I sure hope it didn’t happen… And from the list, even the few that I could find on the library system I could not request a transfer as it was not available. Fortunately I own some of the titles suggested and I can adapt the Bible stories with one of the kid’s bibles we have at home.

The Mother's Day Download 'N Go Unit study is available for 7.95$ at TOS but right now you can have it for 3.95$ with a promo code on this facebook page!  So hurry up before the special is over.

2009 Schoolhouse Planner Useful Excerpts

I’ve recently had the opportunity to review the Schoolhouse Planner Useful Excerpts 2008-2009. This little ebook is packed with the articles as well as the recipes that appeared in the Schoolhouse Planner published during the year 2008-2009.

These articles are written by authors in the homeschool business. Each has their special knowledge and each share from their heart about it. The one article that grabbed my immediate attention was Learning to Spot the Planets. I’ve learned quite a lot reading this and I look forward to try my new telescope that I should received early April as I am reviewing one. I can’t wait to practice the tips found in this article alone and discover the stars and planets above my head.

And new recipes are always nice to have if you ask me. I love trying new recipes – so does my husband but he would prefer “invent” them instead of following a recipe. Everyone has their preferences… For me new recipes have a soft spot in my heart. I love to discover recipes from other people. I’ve already spotted a few that I want to try but the first one I would do is the Tropical Chicken Dinner which contains pineapple rings (yum!) and coconut milk. Sounds like a winning recipe for my family!

If you want to get new recipes and read articles from leaders in the homeschool business, you will need to get the Schoolhouse Planner Useful Excerpts 2008-2009.

The regular price is $9.95 and it is available directly from The OldSchoolhouse Store.

2010 Schoolhouse Planner

2010 Schoolhouse Planner

Published at TOS

Watch out homeschoolers because the TOS Schoolhouse Planner is just around the corner!

This wonderful ebook is put together by a multitude of people wrote on a variety of subjects to encourage and nurture whoever would read it. The articles, resource lists and recipes are divided in months going from July to June. Theses covers subjects like Bible, Arts, Involvements of dads in the homeschool, Reading, Maths, Manners, History, Languages, Electronic Devices, Health, Writing, Notebooking, Geography, Logic and so much more. The recipes I’ve seen so far look so yummy that I am hoping to try new recipes every week in the coming year!

But the Schoolhouse Planner is not only about articles, recipes and resource lists. The main part of this 2010 Schoolhouse Planner is to give homeschoolers like you and me a multitude of forms and instructions to help you manage your homeschool better. Being effective for next year is one of my main objectives. This year I did better than the previous years but with more kids and more subjects coming I need to become better at tracking and following up on the projects we do. In this ebook you will find many documents that will help you to do so. From curriculum form to grocery list, you will find something that will be helpful. You can see that the people behind this Schoolhouse Planner have thought about a lot of different documents to help homeschoolers to manage their home, school and much more. In fact, I’ve counted twenty-eight NEW reports/documents that you can use in your daily lives. I also discovered a wonderful section for preschoolers which I intend to use with my daughter next year. Have a special page for her will help me to keep in mind that she wants to be involved in our school time.

The Schoolhouse Planner is well thought and everyone will find something that they can use. But part of me still think that this would be much more wonderful to convert this paperwork into a computerize system that will make the life of homeschoolers even more easily to do. It is feasible – I can see a database giving the opportunity of the user to print the documents that they need when they need to. And I find it would be easier to put it together for the purpose of tracking the school year. Both my husband and I have a degree in computer sciences and can see how this could be done. Nevertheless, the 2010 Schoolhouse Planner is simply fantastic and I think you will be able to learn something new from it.

Interested in getting a copy of the brand new 2010 Schoolhouse Planner?   Simply go to this page and purchase it from TOS.   For 28$ it is a good resource to have to help you track all your activities during your school year.

Expedition Ireland - Download N Go Unit Study

Expedition Ireland – Download N Go Unit Study

Published at TOS

You know what I received via e-mail on March 17th – that is St. Patrick’s Day? I got the new Download N Go Unit Study titled Expedition Ireland. How cool is that? Pretty neat don’t you think?

When my husband’s maternal grand-father died, we drove in Northern Ontario to go to the funeral. We stayed at his uncle’s house (father’s side). There we learned that apparently there was some Irish blood in the family as his great-grand-mother (or was it the great-great-grand-mother – I don’t remember anymore) was Irish. So we learned something we didn’t know that week-end and now I am quite interested in knowing more about Ireland.

So imagine my delight when I saw that I was going to review Expedition Ireland this month. So I am off to explore Ireland, a country where the color green is definitively predominant!

This unit study will cover various aspects of homeschooling by including geography, history, language, legends, music, arts, sciences and so much more. A wonderful list of books is suggested at the beginning of the study and there is many choices since sometimes libraries don’t have all the possibilities of books on their shelves. Again the study is packed with interesting activities for the kids to do and complete a lapbook while learning more about Ireland. I particularly liked the video with the pictures from Ireland and the traditional music accompanying it. I also enjoyed reading more about the type of food that Irish people enjoy. And with some recipes suggested I look forward to discover and taste the culinary food of this country. I am certain that my kids would love this too as they love to cook with us when we do recipes.

Ireland is indeed beautiful and this unit study makes me want to pack and go discover the country for real. If you recently did a study on St. Patrick’s Day or if you have relatives from Ireland or even if you just want to discover a new country, I strongly recommend Expedition Ireland.

Expedition Ireland is available at The OldSchoolhouse store for 7.95$ US