Reading Kingdom (Review)

World renowned reading expert and Director of the Light on Learning Program at Columbia University, Dr. Marion Blank, has created an online program designed to teach 4-10 year olds how to read and write to a third grade level.  Reading Kingdom immediately appealed to my son because it was computer-based, easy for him to use, and the lessons/games were interactive.  In this tech savvy generation, anything that can be taught via computer/video game method seems to be a hit... especially with the boys at my house.  This is one time I'm not complaining about screen time because while he is having fun, I know he is learning.  His enthusiasm to practice is great from this Teacher/Mom's standpoint. 

    

    

Even though my 8 year stint in the public school system was in an elementary music classroom, I was around long enough to see methodology cycle and change.  A great debate in primary school classrooms always lies between whether or not to use the phonics or whole language approach exclusively when teaching children to read.  Reading Kingdom is unique in that it incorporates elements of both phonics and whole language while teaching additional skills needed to achieve reading and writing success. Rather than requiring kids to learn numerous complicated rules, it utilizes the six skills method for reading which teaches the rules implicitly.  It focuses on sequencing, motor skills, phonemic awareness, meaning, grammar, and reading comprehension.  Because of this special model, the online program works with and supports any curriculum and is actually being successfully used in homeschools, preschool - 3rd grade classrooms, ESL programs, and special education classes.  Jeremiah is a struggling reader, and this program was definitely beneficial to him. 

 



 

When beginning the Reading Kingdom program, parents are given the direction to allow the kids to complete this program on their own.  With the exception of keyboard questions and mouse control, the parents are to take a backseat.  This direction is hard for a Momma like me who tends to hover when the kids are online.  However, this site is completely safe.  There are no ads or things to be concerned about the children encountering.  While I still made sure I was close by, my son had a lot of autonomy with this program - which he enjoyed! 

An assessment is given at the program's onset to allow for customization based upon the child's skill level.  From that point the program is designed to minimize error.  If and when error occurs, specific techniques are offered to overcome the problem.  The child's progress is continually monitored, and the parent is always able to log in to see a report. 

Each lesson is approximately 15-30 minutes in duration.  It is easy to pause or stop the program if need be and you are able to return where you left off.  This was good for a sometimes fleeting attention span.  Even still, if a child works consistently and completes 4 to 5 lessons per week, the entire program can be finished in a 12-15 month time span.  Of course, there is never a rush and children should be allowed to progress naturally at their own pace. 

One aspect of Reading Kingdom that I found somewhat unexpected was the emphasis on typing.  Knowledge of and familiarity with the order of letters on the keyboard, the space bar, punctuation marks, CAPS LOCK, and the shift function were all gained.  Actually, the program itself places a strong emphasis on accurate spelling, punctuation, and writing in general.  This is a plus considering the program itself is reading based. 

One other feature I want to call your attention to is the Resources tab.  In this section, you will find videos, tutorials, and answers to your questions.  Holiday-themed worksheets, interactive games to practice comprehension, sight-word study, activities, and recommended books are all included.  There are even weekly learning tips available.  You'll definitely want to utilize this section in addition to the program. 

A risk-free Reading Kingdom account can be created and used free of charge for 30 days.  As always, I suggest you start with FREE before investing any money.  You want to make sure the program is a good fit for you child.  Afterwards, a subscription can be purchased for $19.99/mo or $199.99/yr for your first reader.  Additional readers are $9.99/mo or $99.99/yr.  You can also purchase books, kits, and other supporting resources in the Reading Kingdom Store. 

While personally, I find the price prohibitive for the whole family to use, I do plan to continue with the program through our trial period.  At that time if my son has continued to progress and completes the program as I anticipate, I may consider starting my daughter on it. I do see the value in this teaching method. One child's subscription would be much easier to swing than our whole family.  Why don't you click the button below and see what other Schoolhouse Review Crew members are saying about this program?

Disclaimer:  I was provided a complimentary subscription in exchange for my honest review.

Everyday Chores (Review)

Often stay-at-home-mom's refer to themselves by other fancy titles.  The one that quickly comes to mind is a Domestic Engineer.  I'm quite confident that if I chose to rock that title it would definitely flop with my friends and family.  Oh... I'm sure that they would enjoy a good laugh (at my expense), but they would not ever use that term to describe me.  You see I LOVE being home with my kiddos, teaching them, and the time I'm able to spend volunteering and advocating for adoption/orphan care.  However, the "homemaking" aspect of being a SAHM is by no means my strength.  I'm often referred to as kitchen illiterate and when we "really" clean our home the kids wonder who is coming to visit.

However, at least in the cleaning department, our family is making changes.  With Jon's job change and relocation over the past couple months, I have been manning the fort.  At first, I thought the responsibilities would fall on me solely, but instead, we made the decision to enlist the help of the other inhabitants in our home.  Thus, the littles now have chores, and I'm blown away to report that they LOVE them.  Everything having it's place has made the clean-up efforts painless and much less time-consuming.  We are all thriving with the new order and organization in our home, and our goal is to maintain it as we change residences.  The best thing - Jeremiah, Caleb, and Rachel are wonderful helpers and don't even complain... seriously, how are these my kids?!?!

Not long after our chores began, I was introduced to Everyday Homemaking.  This website is bursting at the seams with helpful information, tidbits and tricks, wonderful advice, and encouragement.  The site developer, Vicki Bentley, has held a number of impressive titles and positions through homeschooling 17 children.  However, it is quite obvious that what she values most is being "Mom" and "Grandma."  She has eight daughters and has fostered over 50 children, and has 15 (soon to be 16) grandchildren.  This vast life experience truly provides Vicki a platform to share, and she has some beneficial words and ideas for us all.   

Along with maintaining the website and her speaking engagements, Vicki has also authored several books.  As a Schoolhouse Review Crew member, I was recently given the opportunity to also review for The Molly Crew.  This crew specifically reviews products for the home.  It seemed fitting that I was able to review an e-book entitled, The Everyday Family Chore System. 



While The Everyday Family Chore System does provide a tried-and-true model for chores in the home, it offers much more.  The book is divided into three parts, and I would suggest time spent reading the first two are equally as if not more important than the chore system itself.  Within the book you will find, Part 1: Laying the Foundation, Part 2: Implementing the Plan, and Part 3: The Actual Chore System. 

Part 1:  Laying the Foundation focuses on answering the "Why?" of having a family chore system in place.  This section will serve as Mom's motivation and inspiration.  It will challenge you to think of your children's future all while preparing them for that time now.  Key themes in this part include: maintaining realistic, age-appropriate expectations, establishing rules and standards, family discipline, and tying strings to your childrens' hearts. 

Part 2:  Implementing the Plan offers so many suggestions on how to tailor fit and customize the basic plan to what will best serve your family. It is is this section, that Vicki's life experience shines, as she has also been one to make variations.  Personally, being new to this chore thing, I was unsure of what my kids really could/couldn't/should be able to do.  Organized by age, her Life Skill checklists were my favorite part. 

Part 3: The Actual Chore System provides all you need to create your family's chore system.  You will find printable chore cards as well as detailed "How-To-Do-It" cards.  These cards not only let the child know their expected chores but also ensure they understand the essential steps performed in order to correctly complete the chore.  Therefore, if something is done sloppily, the child can simply be sent to reference the card and remedy the situation. 

Partially because we are moving and because of my children's age, I decided the How To Do It cards were unnecessary.  However, as the kids age and take on more responsibilities, I may return to this idea.  It's nice to know I have the resources available. 

 

I did find this book a very helpful read.  It felt like a reassuring pat on the back and an encouraging word from a friend reiterating, "You can do this!"  I gleaned some helpful information and as mentioned above I was impressed by and intend to reference often the Life Skills checklists.  Likewise, I believe, I'll be spending more time on the Everyday Homemaking website.

 

The Everyday Family Chore System is available for purchase as an 88-page, coil bound, glossy covered physical book for $19.99.  If you prefer, a downloadable format is also available for $17.99. 

I would definitely recommend this to anyone feeling compelled to implement a chore system in their family or who feel the need to tweak what they are already using.  Don't just take my word for it.  Be sure and read what other Molly Crew members are saying by clicking the button below. 

Disclaimer:  I was provided a complimentary e-book in exchange for my honest review. 

FOR SALE - finally!

 

 

I know it is a great disappointment, but these three cuties aren't included... NON-NEGOTIABLE!  However, I'm super excited to finally announce our house is officially FOR SALE!!!  It's been a crazy couple months, but hopefully, it all pays off.  Please join us in praying for a buyer to be found in a timely manner.  

playPlay Games (review)

 

When a 5, 6, and 7 year old reside in the home, there is one thing guaranteed - A LOT of PLAY takes place.  For this reason, I jumped at the opportunity to review a new line of games offered by CALICO, LLC., an award-winning design studio that provides product development, branding, design, and strategic marketing to toy, game and publishing companies.  Their clients include some of our families favorites such as:  Scholastic, Weekly Reader, Briarpatch, Zobmondo!!, Fun2Market, Peaceable Kingdom Press, Educational Insights and Free Spirit Publishing.

 

There are three games available in the playPLAY series: ColorPlay GAME, PaintPlay GAME, and StoryPlay GAME.  All of the games are specifically designed for children ages 5 and up.  Likewise, each of the games encourages play through creative activities. 

Once our box of goodies arrived, it didn't take long for my crew to get started.  Boxes were opened, game pieces ready, and imaginations activated.  It really did this Momma good to join the littles in their play and see what fun they were having opposed to seeing their faces glued to a screen of any size. I know I still have Momma guilt for the crazy amount of tv/video game time the kids had over the summer, so I was happy to see that their little brains hadn't turned to mush.  They are quite the masters at imaginative play, so the games were a natural fit!

I decided it may be best to play the games in order based on the recommended age of the player.  Therefore, we started with ColorPlay which is intended for children ages 5 and up.  Of the three offerings, it was probably my kids least favorite.  The boys (ages 6-7) said it was a "baby" game, but that was after playing the game using the first option... Pattern It!  Playing this way, the kids were working cooperatively to find patterns and create a color wheel.  When we moved on to Shape It! and Build It!, they were much more willing players.  Boys and build in the same sentence - always a winner!!!

Within this particular game box, you will find 24 sturdy, double-sided color/pattern shapes, a color wheel game board (20″ x 20″), 24 Shape It cards, a game spinner, and instructions.  This game is played in roughly 20 minutes which is age appropriate for the attention span of the intended players ages 5 and up.  Skills such as color recognition, pattern recognition, cooperation, and imagination are the key focus. 

 

A natural progression from colors seemed to be PaintPlay.  In order to play this game, 2-4 players ages 6 and up are needed.  Collectively, the work together to create an art piece all while doing their best to avoid the six "Meanies." While very cute, these little monsters are trying to steal the players creativity.  The facial expressions and "ahh man's" from my kids when they encountered a "meanie" were so comical.  I had fun just watching them!

 

The game's focus is to build on color recognition and matching skills, and again is perfectly times at approximately 20 minutes to complete.  In this game box, 6 tokens and 6 “meanies,” 2 paint brushes, paper, a game spinner, 40 Action cards, and an eight color paint tray are included.  I will tell you it is a good idea to have extra paint and paper on hand if your kids are as big of fans of this game as mine.  There is just something magnetic about paint when it comes to children.  They can't get enough of it!   

In the progression of games, StoryPlay was last because the intended player age is 7 and up.  For this reason, there was some assistance needed for my emerging readers and writers.  However, I was easily able to accommodate them, and it didn't hamper our play.  We all had fun brainstorming and creating.  

 

2-4 players are able to choose from 3 game options and each takes only 10 minutes to complete, so multiple games are easily played in one sitting.  The players unite to create a story collage using the included Write & Wipe board and pen.  125 double-sided word and image titles are also provided to spur on the creativity and add to the fun. 

 

Overall, my children really enjoyed playing the games, and I foresee they won't get lost on the shelf anytime soon.  They will be played repeatedly.  Also weighing in from my perspective, a common theme and possibly my favorite part of all three games - there is no winner or loser!  The games aren't divisive and instead are played and completed together as a family.  I love when family ties and relationships are strengthened, and what better way to do this than through play?!!

 

Both the individual playPlay games and the complete set became available for purchase this summer at large chains such as Toys R' Us and Barnes and Noble.  Other specialty stores throughout the USA and Canada are also carrying the products.  If you have questions about the playPlay games, feel free to use the website's contact form to gain more information.  In addition, if you happen to be one or know a retailer interested in carrying the playPlay™ line, please call Briarpatch at 973-376-7003. 

 

Finally, be sure and click the button below to read what other Schoolhouse Review Crew members are saying about their experiences with the playPlay games.  I know I enjoy reading what fellow homeschool Moms are saying.  Also, if your kids are a little older, you will want to read the reviews of those who had the opportunity to use the card game Notable Novelists. 

  Disclaimer:  I was provided the entire line of playPlay games free of charge in exchange for my honest review. 

Celebrating SIX (a little early)

 

 

On Saturday, the Spaulding's gathered to celebrate Miss Rachel's 6th birthday.  Our party had to take place a little early since we'll be on vacation on the actual day and moving shortly after, but as you can see, she was ALL smiles.  Seriously... is she not the cutest little girl on the planet?!!! 

 

 

Hello Kitty was the theme... as evidenced by the gifts.  There were clothes, pj's, a remote control car, a bank, earbuds, color book, etc.  One thing for sure, you'll be able to see her coming as most of her Hello Kitty attire is decked out in sequins and sparkles.  Of course, she LOVED all the glamour and glitz.  Combine that with her lip gloss and fingernail polish, and the girly-girl is in heaven! 

 

Rachel is such a blessing to us all.  Her gorgeous eyes and radiant smile captivate all she encounters, but her sweet spirit and servant's heart are even more beautiful.  Thank you God for this precious gift!

Fall Orphan Care/Adoption Events

With our upcoming move, I won't be in the Bluegrass State much longer.  However, I'm so encouraged by all the work that is being done in Kentucky on behalf of and raising awareness for the fatherless.  Normally, I'd try to give a blog blast about each of these events as they approached, but not knowing what the next few weeks hold, I wanted to be sure you were able to get these events on your calendars.   Also, note a few other events at the bottom that aren't Kentucky specific, but from personal experience, I HIGHLY recommend!!!

KENTUCKY

Monthly - Southland Christian Church Adoptive Families Care Group
This group meets to discuss issues unique to adoptive families and those waiting in or considering the process of adoption.  Foster Care, Domestic, and International adoptions are all represented.  This group is a great source of encouragement and support for all families.  Meetings are the 2nd Thursday of each month from 6:30 - 8 p.m., in Building E, Room 109.

September 6^th – FREE Pastors Lunch for Wait No More – Speaker Bob Russell
Adventure Christian Church  - Louisville - 12:00 - 1:30 p.m.
More than 1,800 children and youth are waiting in Kentucky foster care for permanent families.  Learn how the church can make the difference for these kids.  Register HERE!

September 8^th - FREE America World "Adopted By Design" Seminar 
London First Baptist Church, 804 West 5th Street, London, KY 40741
Whether you are just beginning to consider adoption or have decided to adopt, this seminar will be of value to you. An overview of what God's Word says about adoption will be presented as well as information about the international adoption process and the programs America World offers.
Register HERE!

September 15^th – FREE Orphan Care Seminar – Southeast Christian Church
Learn about foster care, domestic & international adoption, and orphan care opportunities. 
Main & Breakout Sessions led by experts in the field and adoptive families.  Register HERE!
                               
October 4^th & 5^th – Together for Adoption Pastor’s Conference – Southern Baptist Theological Seminary
An event for pastors, pastor's wives, seminary students, those involved in church orphan care ministries, non-profit leaders, and those in the beginning stages of launching orphan care ministries.
Learn More & Register HERE!

October 4^th – FREE Pastors Lunch for Wait No More - Speaker Dr. Russell Moore
Southern Baptist Theological Seminary - 11:30 - 1:00 p.m.
More than 1,800 children and youth are waiting in Kentucky foster care for permanent families. Learn how the church can make the difference for these kids.  Register HERE!

October 20^th – Wait No More with Focus on the Family – Northeast Christian Church
Over 1,800 kids are in Kentucky foster care are waiting for adoptive families.  Join Focus on the Family, Kentucky’s Health and Family Services as well as church and adoption leaders from around Kentucky to hear more about the kids who are waiting, the process of adoption from foster care and ways to support adoptive families. In addition, agency and county representatives will be on site to answer questions and help you get started. Register HERE!

 

November 3^rd – Orphan Care Seminar – Highview Baptist Church (Fegenbush Campus) - Louisville 
The schedule/registration is not yet posted, so keep watch on the Orphan Care Alliance website for details. 

OUTSIDE OF KENTUCKY

September 14^th- 15^th - Empowered to Connect - Nashville, TN
Sponsored by Show Hope and led by Dr. Karyn Purvis (Director of the TCU Institute of Child Development) together with Michael & Amy Monroe (Leaders of Tapestry Adoption & Foster Care Ministry), this two-day conference is ideal for adoptive and foster parents, those considering adoption or foster care and those who are serving and supporting others, including social workers, agency professionals, church staff and ministry leaders, counselors, therapists and others involved in adoption and foster care ministries or services. It is designed to help them better understand how to connect with children from hard places in order to help them heal and become all that God desires for them to be. Learn more and register HERE!

September 14^th- 15^th - Together for Adoption National Conference - Atlanta, GA
Theme: God's Story of Adoption for a Broken World
Speakers: Reddit Andrews, Leonce Crump, Noel Piper, Tony Carter, Tony Merida, & Dan Cruver
Worship Leaders: Shaun Groves and Kaleb Scharmahorn
Learn more and register HERE!

November 4^th – Orphan Sunday – Christian Alliance for Orphans
Visit http://orphansunday.org/ for all the details about Orphan Sunday!  You'll find tons of resources, videos, and great ideas.  Plan an event with your church, small group, family, etc. or attend one taking place close by.  (***For my KY friends, there are already two events scheduled in KY but keep tabs on the map as I know of others being planned that haven't been listed yet.) 

 

 

What did I miss?  Leave a note in the comments of any other adoption/orphan care events you are aware of taking place this fall.  

First Field Trip

You know you are a homeschooler when the first week of school, your mind is already on field trips.  We worked hard Monday through Wednesday and extra time on Thursday, so we could enjoy our day out with friends.  Friday found us at the Frazier History Museum and The Kentucky State Fair with the Howell's. 

We were able to take advantage of free admission to the Frazier History Museum which was a bonus for the pocketbook.  The kids had glimpses into the past viewing items from Britain and early America.  A special bonus was the Samurai exhibit.  Some special highlights included trying their hands at bow shooting, trying to lift the heavy armor, playing drums, and checking out the various weaponry on display.  We also listened to a historic interpretation of an Agincourt Archer.

 

 

Following our visit to the museum, we headed to the state fair.  We grabbed lunch, and the kids enjoyed looking around at all the prize winning entries.  It was super cool that their friend McKenzie got a 1st place ribbon for her pretty, pink doll outfit and 2nd place for her banana bread.  Of course, they began plotting and planning what they may enter next year.  I assured them it wouldn't be any baked goods if Momma was to help out :-)  Oh well, I guess I better get in-the-know regarding the TN State Fair, huh?

 

 

We ended our day together with a cool, tasty treat.  Food... Isn't that what the fair is really all about? For our first field trip of the school year, I'd say we did well.  Now, where to next?