This was a trial day for us.  For the first time, I’m trying a natural (herbal) treatment for Rachel’s ADHD.  The herbal supplement is called Focas ADHD and comes highly recommended on websites.  Lots of testimonials, etc.  Day one leaves me undecided.  Perhaps it’s too early to tell, but she was quite irritating today.  Her main symptom is silliness, which transfers to her schoolwork, chores, and anything else that requires structure.  Needless to say, I have to remind her constantly to calm down and do thus-and-so.  I know I should be more patient, but for me, it’s extremely hard since I’m so systematic by nature.  I’m praying this will work.

I’m beginning to re-think our Language Arts program (no surprise, I’m sure).  I’m reading a book titled Homeschooling the Teen Years, and I’m reminded of the fact that reading lots of good books will teach a child most L/A skills.  Everything else is only supplemental.  That said, I think I’ll scratch grammar for Sarah next year, and “assign” classical literature in place of L/A.  Additionally, we’ll do a little spelling.  Rachel will do Winston Grammar and assigned classical reading at home.  At Academy, both will take Writing.  In my opinion, that’s all the L/A they’ll need.  The only reason I’m going to use grammar with Rachel is because of her grade level and the fact that she needs extra work on grammar – mainly the terminology.  A formal grammar class would benefit her greatly.  Today, I checked out a couple of books for the girls to read during L/A time.  I’m still on the fence about finishing the Lifepacs this year (Rachel).  I’ll decide after the finished book 7 next week.  For Sarah, I got Little House in the Big Woods, and for Rachel, The Tale of Two Cities.  I think this is a good start of good literature.  I plan to alternate between C.S. Lewis and Charles Dickens for the remainder of this year (Rachel).  For Sarah, I don’t want to burn her out with Little House books, so I’ll alternate with something else for the rest of the year.  Oh yeah… Ambleside Online has GREAT reading lists I can use too. 

I’m excited about the wonderful literature that’s out there.  I wish they could read it all.  I don’t remember reading much literature in grade school.  I feel that I missed out on so much.  Not that fluffy reading is a bad thing… I just think the classics are special.  I hope my excitement will rub off on the girls.

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Posted by Arkansas

thank you for leaving a comment at the arkansas blog. i heard that the day at the capitol went well, but just from a commentor. i'll try to find out more info and post about it.

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Posted by sahmto4orMore

Let me know how you think the Focus supplement works out after you've used it awhile. My oldest has a terrible time staying on task........he can literally stare at the wall for 30 minutes. His brother, though, zips through his work....not that i am comparing them.

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Posted by babymakers

It should work. It really should. Herbs are the best. Make sure that you give it a few weeks to kick in. Up to four weeks.

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