Life's little moments
• Nov. 20, 2008 - The Little Man in the Map Review
Posted By AussieinAmerica in Reviews
Can you identify all 50 states? I almost can  And this book helped me:
A few weeks ago the Homeschool Crew was sent The Little Man In the Map: With Clues To Remember All 50 States to review. After reading it to my kids twice, I can locate all but a few states. This is good - I'm from Australia - I didn't know these things! Perhaps if I read it twice more, I will have them down.
So, I suppose this book is for my kids, but I liked it too. E. Andrew Martonyi has created a fun way for anyone to learn the names and locations of all 50 states.
Did you know a little man lives in the map of the U.S.A? Go take a look at a map and see if you can find him. I won’t tell you where he is, but here is a clue: his boots are Louisiana.
This little Man, named MIM, magically comes to life and, with story and rhyme, connects the map together in a memorable way.
Ed Olson, the illustrator, did a wonderful job of expressing Martonyi’s ideas on paper. The bright and colorful pictures are sure to capture the attention of most children.
I am not an expert and do not know how effective this mnemonic method of memorization is. I will say that it has helped me and also my 7 year old daughter a great deal.
I do know that when learning is fun, learning is easy (or at least easier). The Little man in the Map makes geography fun and interesting.
This hardcover book is printed on high quality paper and would most certainly be enjoyed by many. It is published by Schoolside Press.
To learn more about The Little Man in the Map visit Schoolside Press. You may also visit the author at his blog right here on Homeschoolblogger: The Little Man in the Map and Frogs Jump USA
To read other reviews visit the Homeschool Crew and Amazon.com
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• Nov. 20, 2008 - One2Believe - Nativity Set Review
Posted By AussieinAmerica in Reviews
One 2 Believe is a company that is striving to provide toys which reinforce Biblical stories and principles. I was very impressed with their vision as stated on the website:
“one2believe's passion is to help children learn important Bible lessons and to have them come to faith in Jesus. Our goal is to provide fun ways of teaching children about the greatest people who ever lived. Through the toys that we design children will learn and play out exciting stories about real people. Our toys teach children that there are real superheroes they can believe in!
one2believe has a great desire to support parents in their battle for their children's hearts and minds. We pray that parents will take the lead by engaging their children in faith and get them excited about Jesus. In Phillipians it speaks about pressing on, at one2believe we believe that we will either influence the world or the world will influence us.”
Most toy companies don’t have a purpose like that!
One2believe recently sent my family their Nativity Set to review. I'm going to tell you what we thought of it and then end with a few words about my favorite one2believe product.
(Photo from one2believe.com)
The Nativity set is comprised of 17 pvc pieces, including a stable, baby Jesus, Mary, Joseph, Kings (Wise men), Shepherds, angels, animals etc. Also included is a “Birth of Baby Jesus” mini-storybook which briefly summarizes the story of Jesus’ birth.
In order to tell you more about the play set I would like to list the pros and cons:
Pros
My kids (4 and 7) loved it!
The play set is small enough for little hands (intended for 3 years and up) and sturdy enough to endure them too.
Kids can easily act out the story - which really seems to help with learning. Many nativity sets are not able to be played with or handled by small children, this one is just for them.
Kids are strengthening their biblical knowledge while playing.
The colors are bright.
Cons
It is made in China
Over the past year I have steered clear of products made in China. This is mainly due to the usage of lead paint and other harmful products in manufacturing. I contacted the company with this concern and was informed that they independently test all of their toys using a third party inspection company. All toys must pass the strictest tests for hazardous materials for both the USA and international standards and they have never had a product fail one of these tests . One2Belive stated that they take toy safety very seriously and promises to continue being vigilant to ensure that they are always in compliance.
...So I’ll let you make up your mind about that :) Read what they say on the website here
The people look a little goofy and cartoonish for my taste.
I would prefer a more realistic, yet sturdy, Nativity set. This is personal preference, I’m sure many people would enjoy this set.
Baby Jesus looks old.
The kids didn’t say a thing about it, but I thought he looked quite funny (so did my husband).
The story book is very small.
I only include this information because the order page states that a mini story book is included. One might (or might not) expect something a little bigger than a 2 ½ x 3 inch book. This is not a big issue, I am just mentioning it for informational purposes, since one cannot glean this information from the website alone.
The angels look female.
Now, perhaps this could be seen as nitpicking, but for my family this is an issue. Angels are usually depicted as male in the Bible. I would have preferred them to look male. I want the kids to learn Bible stories accurately. I’m serious too...my daughter will tell you that those pictures you see of Noah’s ark are not correct because the have more than one window!
And the wise men...but all Nativity sets have the wise men, even though they didn't visit Jesus when he was an infant.
I hope this list of pros and cons will help my readers learn a little more about this product. Whether or not this particular Nativity set would suit your family, depends upon the reasons for having one in the first place. If you want something the kids can play with, this might very well be for you.
The Nativity set can be purchased at one2believe.com for $24.95
Even if this Nativity set is not something you desire, I encourage you to check out the one2believe website and see what they have to offer.
I know the list of cons seems long, they are mostly personal preference, and we even with those, we have still enjoyed the product.
If you are still reading, let me tell you about my favorite one2belive product!
(Photo from one2believe.com)
They are great! My son has Moses and my daughter owns the Mary doll. Both of the dolls we own say Bible verses (Moses recites the 10 commandments). I checked on the website and it states that Moses narrates his own biography, and also quotes key memory verses from the Bible, including Exodus 15:2, Exodus 31:18. Since neither of our dolls narrate a biography, I am wondering if they have changed them. I contacted the company to find out but have not heard back yet. I’ll update this post when I do.
To see their entire toy collection, click here
To read what others thought about the Nativity Set visit the Homeschool Crew blog here. |
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• Nov. 19, 2008 - Time4Learning Update
Posted By AussieinAmerica
To read the first installment in our Time 4 Learning journey, click here
So far Time 4 Learning has been fun...mostly.
The kids were very excited to have time on the computer. It was even more of a thrill because they each had their own PASSWORD. How grown up is that?
At first they didn’t think they were doing anything schoolish. This was play time. Both kids were disappointed when their time was over. I tried to keep it to around 20 minutes.
Speaking of time...I really like the timer feature. It can be customized by the parent to count down any amount of time. The timer displays the minimal amount of time that must be spent on lessons before going to the “playground”. The playground is a collection of online games from around the internet. The child cannot access these until the minimum amount of time has been spent on lessons.
It is also helpful for me to see how long the kids have been on the computer!
And time on the computer is an issue with me.
I noticed that my 7 year old daughter was doing quite well. I was feeling good about this program when we were using it in small bites (20 minutes). One day, I decided to have her do a few math lessons and she ended up staying on for about 40 minutes. By then she was melting down. Some of the questions were difficult and she was getting ready to lose it. I don’t know about you, but I get a headache if I spend too much time on the computer, I wonder how it affects kids.
So...we are back to 20 minutes sessions. I have not decided yet if I will allow her to have more than one session per day. Definitely not for the 4 year old, possibly for the 7 year old.
For the most part, the kids really enjoy it.
That's all for now. More coming soon....
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• Nov. 16, 2008 - Book review - The Missing Link: FOUND
Posted By AussieinAmerica
As part of the Homeschool Crew I was able to review the book Missing Link: FOUND by Christina and Felice Gerwitz, published by Media Angels, Inc.
Written by a mother-daughter team, The Missing link: FOUND is first in the Truth Seekers Mystery Series. So far there are 3 books in this series, with another on the way soon. This tale of mystery is geared toward teens and interweaves faith, family, science and adventure.
Set in Florida, the Murphy family becomes entangled in many unusual (and dangerous) situations: deadly illness, high-speed boat chase, kidnapping, and the possible discovery of the missing link!
Readers of this book will get a behind-the-scenes look at an archaeological/anthropological dig. They will also witness many discussions over creation and evolution and see how one might defend their own conviction that God created the heavens and the earth.
I enjoyed the fact that this family was close knit. It was refreshing to see a good relationship between the main characters, a teenage brother and sister.
It was also fun to read a book in which the characters are Christian homeschoolers!
The Missing Link aims to educate it’s readers in creation science and does a decent job of exposing some of the beliefs held by evolutionists as well as providing evidence and support for those who hold to creation. Much of this information comes in the form of discussions between the siblings, their father, and their cousin (who believes in evolution).
A 4-page glossary defining technical terms is included in the back of the book. I’m sure this would be helpful to many.
Since I do not have any children in the right age bracket for this story, I read it myself and tried to gauge how I would have felt about it in my younger years. I’m almost certain I would have enjoyed it as a teenager. Why wouldn’t I? It is full of action, suspense, and mystery. It is certainly better than the Sweet Valley High novels I was reading (how awful!).
There are sections where the writing could be improved. The author was 17 at the time she completed this book, so I really do not wish to criticize her too much. I am amazed that someone of her age could come up with such a complicated plot and also that she was able to include so much information on creation science in her novel. Her determination and dedication are certainly commendable.
This is not the literature we are used to as we pursue a Charlotte Mason education. Although I do not think I would disqualify it from being included in our library. It would certainly be interesting for a homeschooled teenager to read (fun to see what another homeschool graduate has done).
Also worth mentioning is the fact that many of the characters often stop to pray about different situations. Some will find this an enjoyable part of the book, others could possibly be annoyed by it.
The Missing link: FOUND is $8.99 and can be purchased at MediaAngels.com, ChristianBook.com. and Amazon.com
To read other reviews on this book visit Homeschool Crew
You may also want to check out the Media Angels Website. They have an online creation science class which may be worth looking into. |
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• Nov. 16, 2008 - Menu Plan and Soup Catastrophe!
The soup catastrophe.....
Winter House Soup - It sounded delicious. I couldn’t wait to make it. But it was not to be the memorable occasion I had hoped for.
In my mind, this recipe was sure to be a keeper.
It looked warm and rustic. It smelled like soup should. It looked beautiful and golden.
We sat at the table, our soup dished into homemade bowls. The scene was set..
...we prayed...
...we dipped our spoons in...
...we took a bite...
...I heard a faint noise from the back of my husband’s throat which caused me to look up...
...He prides himself on eating whatever is set before him....he took another bite...
....was his eyebrow twitching?
...he took another bite...
...yes, his eyebrow was twitching!
...he took still another bite....he is supposed to be a good example you know....
My husband had brought home a special treat for the kids, to be consumed AFTER dinner.
...the kids were really looking forward to it...
...if only they could get through this meal...
Our 4 year old took a bite and began to cry!
This was bad.
Finally, after a set number of bites each (3), we put our bowls away.
This dinner was not to be.
UPDATE: WE HAD THE TREAT FOR DINNER!!!!!!
I think it was the parsnip that made the soup taste strange! Although I’m not sure.
We all have cooking disasters at some time or another. No one can expect to have a perfect record, especially when we provide 3 meals a day, 365 days of the year!
Just thought I’d share
So now let me direct you to a winner of a recipe: simple and scrumptious fingerling potatoes
They don't look like much, but are really yummy. Trust me, I know what what tastes good 
All you need is: fingerling potatoes, olive oil, salt, black pepper and rosemary. Click here for the recipe.
Now for our menu plan....
Monday
Cheesy Turkey Sausage Stromboli
Tuesday
Pumpkin Soup (hopefully it is nothing like the above mentioned one) and Almond Millet Muffins
Wednesday
Steak, Mashed Potatoes, and Corn
Thursday
Oven Baked Macaroni and Cheese with a side or carrots and apples (or broccoli)
Friday
Spaghetti Squash and Marinara Sauce
For more menu plans visit OrgJunkie.com
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• Nov. 13, 2008 - Time4Learning
Posted By AussieinAmerica
My family is trying out Time 4 Learning right now. I’d like to review this in small increments and take you through the process us. I think that will provide a clearer picture of our experience with this learning tool rather than an overview at the end.
Time 4 Learning is an interactive website that provides home based, online learning from Pre-K through 8th grade.
Here are a few details as we begin:
- Using online curriculum for my children has never been considered by me. I’m not sure what to expect. I suppose I don't expect to be overly impressed since I generally don't care for computer programs for little ones.
- We plan to use the website is short sessions each day.
- My 4 year old will be doing preschool.
- My 7 year old will be doing 1st - 2nd grade
The sign up process:
After receiving an email from Time 4 Learning, I learned there were a few steps required to set up our account. It turned out to be a lot more personal than I had expected. Each child has their own log in name and password. The parent also has their own login and password.
During the registration process I answered a series of questions regarding my child’s level in different subjects, I assume this enables the program to suit the individual.
The registration process was a surprise to me. A lot more than expected, but nothing overly tedious. Answering questions about my children caused me to anticipate a very usable format once lessons began.
Access to the website was granted quickly and upon entering I was truly surprised...
Time 4 learning is huge! Self paced lessons, assessments, and educational teaching games are provided for many subjects, including math, language arts, social studies, and science. It is technically an education program for math and language arts, the other subjects are included as a bonus.
The kids both tried it out and REALLY enjoyed it. I wonder if most kids like computer programs? Mine are rarely on the computer and watch minimal T.V., so this was very exciting for them.
Stay tuned and I’ll let you know how this goes.
Stacy |
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• Nov. 12, 2008 - Help Me 2 Teach Review
Posted By AussieinAmerica
In line with my recent announcement concerning reviews, I’d like to tell you about Help Me 2 Teach.
What is it?
Help Me 2 Teach is a subscription-based internet directory of online educational resources.
The owner, Elaine Taylor, has searched, collected, screened, and organized educational websites for subscribers to use.
How Does it Work?
Subscribers log on to HelpMe2Teach.com and may use the search feature to look for topics among the listed web sites, or go to the Table of Contents and browse the categories.
Each link has a brief description and a simple code which allows the “searcher” to see immediately if the website fits into their particular age range/grade level.
How Much Does it Cost?
There are a number of subscription options available:
1 year@ $29.95
3 mos. for $15.95
1 mo. for $9.95
3 days for $4.95
Current deal:
Buy ONE year get ONE year free (so you get a 2 year subscription for under $30)
Use discount code TOS
Price includes Quarterly Newsletters and FREE research for anyone with a paid one year subscription or longer.
Why would I want to use this service?
As an avid internet user, I asked the very same question. And this may not be for everyone. Let me tell you what I like and don’t like about this site....
My favorite part is the fact that it is SAFE. Many times while researching a perfectly innocent subject, I have come across inappropriate sites (Doesn’t that make you mad!?). When this happens to me I quickly navigate away from the page. The problem is, what if my young children are near by? This is one reason I do my research when they are not around. However, I have certainly googled a topic of interest with them right beside me..(like when my daughter wanted to know all about Niagara Falls).
With Help Me 2 Teach, I can feel confident in the fact that these websites have been pre-screened. This makes it a very useful tool for an older child who is doing their own research.
The Table of Contents is my next favorite. Just browse around and you will find helpful websites for many subjects. Ms. Taylor has organized links into specific categories, some of which are: Primarily Primary, Art, Math, Bible Study, Computers, Holidays, Science, Language Arts, Social Science, and more.
I preferred the Table of Contents to the Search feature. It was fun to look through the links listed and stumble across topics I had not thought of before. Considering how often I look for information online, I was surprised to find so many websites I had never seen.
Help Me 2 Teach states that they have “Over 2300 Safe, Educational Links for Children, Parents and Teachers Updated Daily. Pre-K through High School Use as a Complete Curriculum or to find Supplemental Material.” That will keep you busy for a while. And could definitely be helpful if you are not able to purchase books.
Ms Taylor, the owner, updates the website regularly, and I mean regularly! She is open to suggestions, responds quickly to questions, and continues to work hard at improving the link listings every day.
Now for what I didn’t like:
Help Me 2 Teach is not a Christian website, although it does contain links on character and Christian themes. However, it would still be necessary to check certain websites, especially those with a science focus, because they may include discussion of evolution as a fact. This is something you would need to do when searching online anyway, and evolution needs to be discussed too (but that is a topic for another day). It is just something to be aware of.
My only other dislike was the fact that sometimes I would not find anything to do with the subject I was researching. This was disappointing. And would be even more so when paying for a subscription.
Whether this would be a major concern on not depends on how much the service will be used. The value of this service can only be determined by weighing up the amount of time spent looking for family-friendly information online, how much one actually uses the internet for educational purposes, and if children will be doing any of the research.
If it seems like something that would be helpful to you, I would suggest signing up for one of the shorter versions to see if it would be a nice fit for your family. There is even a 3 day option for $4.95. If it does seem like something you can use, then I would highly recommend the buy one year, get one free deal (enter TOS as the discount code to get this).
All in all, I think Help Me 2 Teach has a lot of promise. It is quite possibly a time saver for parents and teachers, as well as an innocence protector for children researching topics online. To determine whether it would be a valuable addition to your homeschool and worthy of consideration in your budget, learn more at HelpMe2Teach.com
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• Nov. 4, 2008 - Gratituesday!
Posted By AussieinAmerica in Family
You know how sometimes your little kids need a lot of correction in one single day? And sometimes you worry if they really feel loved or not? I do.
My daughter (SugarBean) has certainly had her days, we have had our battles, and I have worried.
This Sunday she drew a few pictures in her notebook that made me very happy! I am grateful that she knows her family loves her. It is so important for all children to feel loved.
Here are the pictures that made me so happy:
(I am in 1st grade. I am loved a lot)
(I have a happy home)
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• Nov. 3, 2008 - Hearty, Healthy Flaxseed Bread
Posted By AussieinAmerica in Recipes
Hearty, Healthy Flaxseed Bread
This is a tasty, healthy treat and it's not too sweet. Enjoy plain or with a little butter.
This recipe comes from my awesome Grandma-in-law.
1 cup ground flaxseed (best to grind fresh to get the
1 cup dried cranberries
1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts are good)
2 tsp. Baking powder
1 teaspoon Salt
1 teaspoon Baking soda
1 cup Apple sauce
1 cup mashed banana
3 eggs
Mix first 8 (all dry) ingredients in a mixing bowl.
In a separate bowl combine the apple sauce, bananas and eggs. Then add to dry ingredients.
Stir only until moist.
Pour batter into 2 or 3 greased loaf pans
Bake at 350 degrees fr 30 to 40 minutes.
Feel free to experiment with this recipe. I have added shredded coconut and golden raisins before. You could also add other dried fruit and a mixture of nuts.
For more Kitchen tips visit Tammy's Recipes
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• Nov. 3, 2008 - Please watch...Please Vote for LIFE!
Posted By AussieinAmerica
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