Homeschool Mothers Journal #1

I am so excited to be a part of the link up for the Homeschool Mother's Journal hosted by the HomeschoolChick.com.  Each week I will do a post like this giving you all a look into my homeschool world for the week.

In my life this week…
I have been rushing frantically to finish last minute planning. This is the first year I will be schooling all six.

In our homeschool this week…
We began doing worksheets and children were given the 1st reading books for this year.  I am also getting workboxes prepared this is the first time we will be using them.

Helpful homeschooling tips or advice to share…
None for this week....actually I could use some!

I am inspired by…
My sister in law who has 14......I have no right to be stressed with only six..or do I?


Places we’re going and people we’re seeing…
To the hospital, my 99 year old Granny had a seizure and is in critical.

My favorite thing this week was…
Watching and enjoying my 4 year old, she is growing up and smart as a whip.  She told my 6 year old "stop chewing, I can't concentrate"!

What’s working/not working for us…
Not sure yet....I am sure I will be able to fill this in by next week though!

Questions/thoughts I have…
Did I homeschool my daughter well enough to make it into college next year?

Things I’m working on…
Planning for the year.

I’m reading…
Textbooks!

I’m cooking…
Whatever is quick!

I’m grateful for…
My children and husband, they are the main reason for my existence.

I’m praying for…
The thousands of people still without power and my granny.

A photo, video, link, or quote to share…
Develop a passion for learning. If you do, you will never cease to grow. - Anthony J. D'Angelo

Leap Frog Scribble & Write Review

LeapFrog Scribble and Write Customer Review

LeapFrog is a well known educational toy creator.  They create toys that are not only fun but teach your children in the process.  If you have a young child that is just beginning their reading and writing journey you will love the LeapFrog Scribble and Write.  I have used this with my younger children and it entertains while teaching writing and alphabets. 

How Does The LeapFrog Scribble and Write Work?

The LeapFrog Scribble and Write is a compact toy and offers a full alphabetical keyboard, a plastic screen for writing the letters, a attached stylus and a speaker. It's durable so that it can handle accidental drops!

Scout the puppy will guide your child by talking them through the steps to trace the lights on the screen to draw and write.  As they improve your child will begin writing upper and lowercase letters. There are four learning modules that increase in difficulty as your child progresses. 

Scribble and Write doesn't just teach writing skills it also helps your child develop alphabet, pencil control and phonics skills.

As with other handheld educational devices from LeapFrog, parents also have the added benefit of being able to connect to the online LeapFrog Learning Path program to keep track of what their children are learning.

Should You Buy The LeapFrog Scribble and Write?

The recommeded age of use for this toy is 3 years old but I let my two year olds use it as soon as they were able.  I would keep in mind that there are small parts that could be a choking hazard so I would not leave them unattended.

I am including this toy in my youngest childs' homeschool  workbox this year.   This is a great activity to keep little ones busy.

The LeapFrog Scribble and Write is affordable for the parent and captivating for the little ones.  The small investment is worth it in my opinion as mine is being used with a third child.

Where to buy LeapFrog Scribble and Write

You can find this toy at various retailers however, I have found the best prices a Amazon.com

If you have used this toy let me know what your thoughts are on it too!

Homeschool Blog List

If you have a homeschool blog get listed on Teaching Blog Addict!


TBA is a great place to get information from Teachers and Homeschool Moms!

Free Study Skills Book

One of the biggest challenges for my older children has been developing good study skills.

If you are having the same issue or would like to improve this skill for your children hurry and download this FREE Everything Guide to Study Skills on Amazon.

All About Spelling Giveaway

Freely Educate is hosting a free All About Spelling Giveaway.

Just visit their site and follow the steps to enter for a chance to receive the following:

AAS Level One:
Teacher's Manual
 Student Packet
Run, Bug, Run!
The Runt Pig
Cobweb the Cat

 The Deluxe Interactive Spelling Kit:
 Letter Tiles with Magnets
Phonogram CD
Divider Cards
Spelling Review Box
Tote Bag
Bee Stickers

All of that will be sent to one of you,

 shipped free, of course!  (value: $139.75)

 All About Spelling is a step-by-step multisensory program created to take the struggle out of spelling, whether a parent is just beginning to teach a child to spell or if a child needs remedial help.

Sign up for the free giveaway with Freely Educate and click above for a free activity book!

The History of Homeschooling

If you have ever wondered how homeschooling got started take a look below.

Via: Online College Source


Thanks to Tamara at Teachingwithtlc.com for sharing this!

FREE Worksheets & Activities for All Grades

I'd like to thank Miguel over at Education.com for reaching out to me today, to let me know about the wonderful FREE resources his company offers.

Homeschool moms and teachers alike are always looking for great FREE resources!

If you are not familiar with Education.com take a look they offer worksheet and activities and tools for all ages/grades.

I have already started downloading a few worksheets for my kiddos and I plan to use this resource throughout the school year!