How to Tame Your Thought Monster

New American Cursive is an easy-to-follow resource for teaching beginning cursive. It presents simplified letter forms, using multi-sensory methods to aid in the learning of motor skills necessary to write well. Developed by Iris Hatfield, with over 35 years of experience in the handwriting field, the book improves the process of teaching handwriting and allows students to start at a younger age.

The character Mr. Meerkat is the book’s guide, making learning tasks fun; step-by-step, he shows the way to draw each letter and encourages creativity. There are clear arrow directions for letter creation, and plenty of shaded letters to trace for practice. The book is bound at the top for equal access for left- and right-handers.

NAC’s simplified strokes and letter forms allow first grade students to truly master beautiful cursive. We have used NAC in our Highlands Latin School, with dramatic results. Every child can master cursive in the first grade, and many of our first graders write better than typical third graders. Learning cursive early ensures that students are not slowed down or frustrated in the upper grades when they are focusing on other subjects, such as grammar and composition.

The Classical Historian teaches students to think independently, make decisions, read, write, and speak effectively, AND learn history. The Classical Historian uses a Five Step Method:

1. Students Learn the Tools of the HIstorian. 2. Students are Challenged with Open-Ended Questions. 3. Students Research in a Variety of Secondary and Primary Sources. 4. Students Engage in a Socratic Discussion. 5. Students Write an Analytical Essay.

Curriculum titles for grades 6-9: American History.

Curriculum titles for grades 9-12: Modern American, American History from Columbus to the War on Terror.

Online classes also available that utilize this curriculum.

Now you can taste your way across the country without leaving your own dining room table! Eat Your Way Through the U.S.A. includes a full meal of recipes from each state plus the District of Columbia. The recipes are easy to follow. Though not written at a child’s level, children can be included in the preparation of these dishes. All pages are printed in two colors for added interest and there is a set of interesting food facts from each state to supplement your cooking experience. Spiral Bound.

All creation is awe-inspiring, but the work of the human body, created in the very image of God, is especially jaw-dropping! This study of anatomy and physiology showcases the intricacy and design of the human body, from DNA and cell creation to the skeletal, muscular, digestive, respiratory, cardiovascular, nervous/endocrine, immune, and intergumentary systems. Integrated with health and nutrition information, as well as plenty of scripture and biblical application, this complete guide to the human body is written in an enjoyable, conversational tone that will keep kids engaged. Experiments, notebooking assignments, narration, and a “personal person project” provide interaction with concepts outside of reading, and help to solidify understanding. 265 pages, hardcover. Index and answers to the narrative questions are included.

Because I want to encourage young children back to the wonderful art of sewing, I have designed an online video course which is perfect for teaching children how to sew their very own doll clothes. It has over 130 step-by-step instructional videos covering everything from explaining the different types of fabric, how to use various sewing tools and how to sew basic stitches through to attaching frills and working with elastic. The course also includes 8 free pdf doll clothes patterns with step-by-step video instructions to help get them started!

Classical music is uniquely part of our Western civilization. Research suggests that both listening to and playing classical music aids brain development. Even rudimentary exposure increases one’s level of enjoyment and understanding. This course provides a close-up look at famous composers, their music, and their times, with special attention to character traits and Christian testimony (or lack thereof). Even the musically challenged will enjoy this course! It’s perfect for grades 4-8 but is easily adaptable for younger and older students. Minimal teacher prep will return maximum enjoyment!