I am taking a different approach to teaching Grammar this year. My children have used the Rod & Staff grammar courses for several years and they have learned so much. However, we are all getting a big tired of the repetition of this series (even though I know that this "repetition" is what has led the kids to remembering so much!). We tried Daily Grams last year and loved them, so we are sticking with them again this year.

However, our main "text" for grammar for the next few years will be The Basic Cozy Grammar Course. I purchased this several years ago when it first came out so I own the video series (I'm even quoted in the Testimonials section under Homeschool!). It is also available in DVD and there are now TWO more courses following this one - Intermediate Level 1 and Level 2. There are 27 lessons in the Basic course and the earliest ones will be review, so I'll probably be purchasing the Intermediate levels to begin in January. There are several reasons that I'm choosing to go with this program at this time: My visual son learns very well by watching videos, so I'm doing this for him. My daughter just likes a change from the textbook ... and I find Marie Rackham absolutely CHARMING!

This series is very Charlotte Mason-friendly. It uses short video lessons to begin teaching the material and she uses items, settings, etc. that are around her home in Canada. "Imagine learning grammar in front of a cozy fire with soft strains of classical music playing in the background, or on the beach while gulls and eagles soar overhead. Marie will quickly make you feel at home in her cozy beachside cottage. In this "living textbook," while she walks you through her cottage and around the grounds, she walks you through the rules and concepts of basic English grammar in a whimsical, fun-loving way."

The workbook companion includes a study guide, exercises, texts and the answer key. There are 4 brief exercises to follow the video. For some children, it may not be enough practice. I will supplement with FREE online lessons from Daily Grammar if necessary. I have also found a fun Grammar Games site where the kids can play games online!

You have the option of ordering  Premium Packaging or the less expensive No Frills Packaging (a savings of over 40% off of the premium packaged product prices) - the choice is yours. For a comparison of these packages, go to this page. I will probably order the No Frills packaging to save some money. There is no difference in the price of the video set vs. the dvd set, but they are phasing out the videos and will strictly with dvd's soon. They are also offering FREE shipping if you choose "Regular Parcel USA" too!

Splashes from the River offers other video programs, too - Puncutation and Essay writing. In addition, they have a FREE online spelling program for grades 6-8. If you have a visual learner or just want a change from the textbook, I highly recommend that you check out this series. They offer a 6-month money-back guarantee - How can you go wrong with that? If you choose free shipping and do not like the product, all you lose is the money to send it back - WOW!

DISCLAIMER: I am in no way affiliated with this company - I'm just a HAPPY CUSTOMER!

... Kris ...