We received Simply Draw with Bob Parsons for our honest review!
I’ll be the first to admit that one of my weaker areas in our homeschool has been Fine Arts. While my son is well-rounded musically he plays piano and trombone and participates in weekly music theory lessons with his instructors—visual art is where I tend to fall short. The interesting part is, my son actually enjoys drawing from time to time. So I knew I needed something that could support that interest without requiring me to become the art teacher. I was looking for a program that was self-paced, easy to follow, and low-pressure, and Simply Draw with Bob Parsons does just that. Even better, this program is included in the Timberdoodle 7th Grade Curriculum Kit, which made it an easy addition to our homeschool lineup.
Why We Chose Simply Draw
We weren’t looking for a formal, technique-heavy art curriculum. Instead, I wanted something that:
Encouraged creativity without pressure
Could be done independently
Fit naturally into our homeschool rhythm (or even free time)
Simply Draw checked every box.
My son has been using it in his spare time, which says a lot because when kids choose to engage with something on their own, you know it’s working. And honestly, I’ve even jumped on the bandwagon and completed a few lessons with him!
How the Program Works
Here’s what makes it work so well:
Video-Based Instruction Each lesson is taught through clear, easy-to-follow videos. Bob Parsons breaks drawings down into simple shapes and lines, making it approachable for all skill levels.
Step-by-Step Approach Students start with basic forms (circles, lines, shapes) and gradually build them into complete drawings. This removes the intimidation factor that often comes with art.
Short, Manageable Lessons Lessons are not overwhelming. They are just the right length to keep kids engaged without burnout.
Encouraging Teaching Style Bob Parsons has a calm, supportive tone that makes kids feel like they can draw—even if they’ve struggled before.
What Students Learn
While it feels fun and relaxed, your child is actually building real art skills:
Understanding how to break complex images into simple shapes
Developing hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills
Learning proportion, spacing, and visual balance
Building confidence in creative expression
And most importantly they begin to see themselves as artists.
Our Experience
This program has become one of those “quiet wins” in our homeschool. There’s no resistance. No overwhelm. Just a simple invitation to create. My son enjoys picking it up when he wants to draw, and I love that it doesn’t feel like another assignment. It’s enriching without being demanding. And the fact that I can sit down and do a lesson alongside him has made it even more special.
Who Would Benefit Most
Simply Draw with Bob Parsons is a great fit for:
Homeschool families looking for a low-pressure art option
Students who enjoy drawing but need guidance and structure
Beginners who feel intimidated by traditional art programs
Middle schoolers who want a creative outlet without heavy instruction
Parents who prefer independent, self-paced electives
It’s especially ideal for kids like mine those who enjoy art here and there but don’t necessarily want a full, intensive curriculum.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for an art program that blends simplicity, creativity, and flexibility,Simply Draw with Bob Parsons is a wonderful addition to your homeschool. It meets students where they are, builds confidence step-by-step, and keeps art enjoyable—which, in my opinion, is exactly what art education should do. And the fact that it’s included in the Timberdoodle 7th Grade Curriculum Kit makes it an easy, valuable resource for any homeschool family wanting to add meaningful creativity into their day without adding stress.
We received CompuScholar Unity Game Programming for our honest review!
I’m always looking for ways to turn my son’s natural interests into meaningful learning opportunities. One thing about him—he loves video games. But beyond just playing, he started asking deeper questions about how they’re made and what goes on behind the scenes. That curiosity led us to CompuScholar’s Unity Game Programming course, and it has been such a rewarding way to take something he enjoys and transform it into real, skill-based learning. Once he finishes the program I can award him 1 high school credit for his computer science requirement.
About CompuScholar
CompuScholar offers a variety of online computer science and digital literacy courses designed specifically for middle and high school students, including subjects like Python, Java, web design, and game programming. These courses are self-paced, homeschool-friendly, and built to help students develop real-world tech skills while earning credit for their transcripts. What I love most is that their courses are structured like true high school electives but still flexible enough for homeschool families.
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Unity Game Programming: A Deep Dive Into Game Design
Unity Game Programming is where things really get exciting especially for students who love gaming.This course uses the Unity game engine to teach students how to design and build their own games while learning C# programming from the ground up. And let me just say this is not a surface-level class. This is a true, in-depth look at game development.
What Students Learn
Students don’t just “play around” with coding they learn:
Game engines and how they work
C# scripting and coding fundamentals
2D game physics and mechanics
Animation, sound effects, and game art
Object-oriented programming
Debugging and problem-solving
Artificial intelligence in games
Full game design strategy and development
By the end of the course, students are actually creating their own games walking through the entire development process from idea to final product.
How the Program Works
One of the things I appreciate most as a homeschool parent is how well-structured this program is.
Lesson Text + Instructional Videos – Students learn concepts step-by-step
Hands-On Projects – Every chapter includes coding labs
Parent-Friendly Rubrics – Easy grading for project work
The course is designed as a full-year (2 semester) program, typically taking about 3–5 hours per week. It’s self-paced, which makes it perfect for homeschool schedules.
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What Makes This Program Stand Out
What really stood out to us is how this course teaches students to think like developers not just follow directions. Students learn how to:
Plan a game
Build it step-by-step
Test and debug it
Improve and refine their work
It’s not just coding it’s critical thinking, logic, and creativity all in one.
One of my favorite things about this program is that it works beautifully as a:
High school computer science credit
STEM elective
Career exploration course
It’s rigorous enough to count on a transcript while still being engaging and fun. Even better this course is included in the Timberdoodle Co. 12th Grade Curriculum Kit, which makes it an easy addition for families already using Timberdoodle.
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Why It Works So Well for Homeschoolers
From a homeschool perspective, this program checks all the boxes:
Flexible, self-paced structure
Minimal parent prep required
Auto-grading for quizzes/tests
Clear lesson progression
Real-world, applicable skills
It allows students to work independently while still producing meaningful, measurable results which is something we all want as homeschool parents. If you have a student who loves gaming and is constantly asking “how does this work?”, Unity Game Programming is such a powerful way to turn that curiosity into a real skill. For us, it took something my son already loved and transformed it into purposeful learning, creativity, and future career exploration. And honestly that’s what homeschool is all about.
Homeschooling high school can feel like stepping into unfamiliar territory for many families. The stakes feel higher, the planning becomes more intentional, and the pressure to “get it right” can be overwhelming. This year in our homeschool was certainly eventful, filled with experimentation, reflection, and ultimately a powerful reminder of what works best for our family. From the beginning of our homeschool journey since 5th grade, Oak Meadow has been a steady and comforting presence in our home. Its thoughtful structure, rich literature, and academically rigorous approach have always aligned with how we want learning to feel deep, meaningful, and student-centered.
A Unique Transition Into High School
Like many homeschool families, we don’t follow a perfectly traditional grade structure. We often run a mixed-grade homeschool, allowing learning to progress naturally rather than strictly by grade level. This year, we wrapped up much of our Oak Meadow 8th-grade coursework in early fall, which allowed us to transition into 9th-grade material later in the fall semester. That flexibility is one of the things I value most about Oak Meadow it supports real learning rather than rigid timelines.
Lessons Learned Along the Way
One of the biggest lessons I learned this year came from a mistake. At one point, I thought my homeschooler needed an online biology class to round out his high school experience. Very quickly, it became clear that it wasn’t the right fit for him or for our homeschool rhythm. I corrected that decision and ordered Oak Meadow Biology, and the difference was immediate. He was elated to be back in a learning environment that felt familiar, engaging, and supportive of how he learns best. And honestly, I was too.
The Courses That Shaped Our Year
This year we explored several Oak Meadow high school courses, each bringing something special to our homeschool. Hero’s Journey has been one of our favorites. We paired the course with our own literature selections, including The Hobbit and Children of Blood and Bone. One of the beautiful things about Oak Meadow is how easily the curriculum can be personalized. You are given a strong academic foundation, but there is always room to expand and follow your student’s interests. We loved this course so much that we plan to continue Hero’s Journey through the rest of this school year and finish it in Fall 2026. World Geography also took us on an incredible learning adventure. The course covers both physical and human geography, helping students refine their geographic skills while also understanding how culture, environment, and society interact across the globe. Coincidentally, we began the South America unit right around Super Bowl season, which added an extra layer of excitement to our discussions about the region.
Our Personal Finance course has also been incredibly practical. We started Unit 1 in December, which focuses on consumer skills and banking. One of the things I love most about this book is that it’s divided into five independent units, allowing us to stretch the remaining four units across the next four years of high school. This allows the material to stay relevant as my son grows older and encounters real-world financial decisions. Now we didn’t use the Oak Meadow Algebra 1 course as our spine we did use it as supplemental. The algebra curriculum is wonderful and still gives you the same rigor that you would have expect from Oak Meadow.
Why Oak Meadow Works So Well for Us
As I began officially planning our 9th-grade year, I sat my son down and asked him an important question:
What do you want your high school homeschool to look like?
His answer was immediate and clear. He told me he wanted to stay with Oak Meadow for high school. He even asked that we avoid adding outside curriculum, with the exception of two programs he genuinely enjoys. That moment confirmed something for me: when a curriculum resonates with your child, learning becomes smoother, deeper, and more joyful. For our family, that means we will likely remain an Oak Meadow family until the very end of our homeschool journey.
A Rigorous Curriculum That Can Grow With Your Student
Oak Meadow offers an in-depth, rigorous academic program that is fully capable of supporting college-bound students. What makes it even more powerful is its flexibility. Courses can easily be adapted to meet Honors or AP-level expectations, allowing families to increase academic rigor while still maintaining the curriculum’s holistic approach to learning.
The Biology course, in particular, is a standout. Oak Meadow includes the latest Miller & Levine Biology textbook, paired with access to Savvas learning resources, which adds an excellent digital component. I was also incredibly impressed that the course includes literature connected to the science topics, helping students explore scientific ideas through both analytical and narrative lenses.
Preparing for College — Without Losing Childhood
My son is college bound, and I take that responsibility seriously. I have spoken with multiple college counselors to ensure we are on the right track with course selection, rigor, and transcript planning.
Across the board, I heard the same thing: Oak Meadow’s high school curriculum is considered top tier.
This year we also introduced SAT test preparation, and next year we plan to integrate it more consistently into our weekly routine. But along the way, I had to learn an important lesson as a homeschool parent.
I had to quiet the outside noise.
I had to stop second-guessing myself.
And I had to stop trying to race to the finish line.
My child is barely thirteen years old. High school should not mean the end of curiosity, creativity, or joy. We still want time for hands-on projects, interest-led learning, volunteering, clubs, and simply being a kid. He has a lifetime to be an adult.
Building a Meaningful High School Experience
While academics matter, our homeschool high school plan includes more than just coursework. We are intentionally building a transcript that reflects:
Strong academics
Extracurricular activities
Passion projects
Community service
Exploration of his future career interests
Oak Meadow has made this process easier because the curriculum already provides a solid academic backbone. Instead of scrambling to piece together courses, I can focus on helping my son grow into the person he is becoming. For the past two years, I’ve also attended the Oak Meadow College Planning Seminars, taking detailed notes and learning directly from the curriculum team about preparing homeschool students for college admissions. Oak Meadow also provides samples of the curriculum on their website. Oak Meadow website also has helpful planning pages and transcript template. Those seminars alone have given me tremendous confidence in the path we are on.
A Final Word to Fellow Homeschool Moms
If you are approaching the high school years and feeling overwhelmed, unsure, or pressured to piece together a dozen different programs just to “do it right,” I want to encourage you to pause and take a look at Oak Meadow High School. Oak Meadow offers something that is surprisingly rare in high school education today: rigor without burnout, structure without rigidity, and academic depth without sacrificing creativity.
It allows families to build a serious college-preparatory education while still protecting the heart of homeschooling freedom, curiosity, and connection. For our family, Oak Meadow has removed the hardest part of homeschooling high school: the constant worry about whether we are choosing the right path. Instead, it has given us the confidence to move forward, enjoy the journey, and trust that our child is growing academically without losing the joy of learning along the way. And that, to me, is the greatest success a homeschool curriculum can offer.
Choosing a history curriculum this year was not an easy task it was a huge struggle. I knew from the start that we didn’t want to spend weeks reviewing early U.S. history. Both my son and I wanted something different: a curriculum that allowed us to dig deeper into Indigenous, African, Hispanic, and Asian history, and to start our study at Reconstruction instead of repeating material we’ve already covered over and over again.
As my son often reminded me, “I know all of this why do we have to spend so much time going back through slavery?” I realized he was feeling the same way I was tired, re-traumatized, and ready to move forward. That’s when I decided it was time to shake things up and seek out resources that honored voices often left out of the mainstream narrative.
Why We Passed on a Traditional Approach
Most history curriculums for middle and high school start with the same framework: early exploration, colonial America, and then a heavy emphasis on slavery and the Revolutionary era. While important, this wasn’t what we needed this year. We wanted to move forward into parts of history that aren’t often highlighted, such as the Black towns that thrived in the late 1800s and 1900s, the rise of Black-owned banks, and the housing struggles that shaped African American communities.
We also wanted to explore the roles Indigenous, Asian, and Hispanic Americans played after the Civil War topics like the Chinese Exclusion Act, the Dawes Act, landmark court cases involving Black and Brown communities, the Chicano Moratorium, the Black Panther Party, and the Young Lords.
Shifting Perspectives: A Standout Choice
One of the first curriculums that caught our attention last year was Shifting Perspectives by Tanya Adkins. This resource instantly resonated with us. It didn’t shy away from hard truths, but instead encouraged students to engage thoughtfully with history.
What I loved most was how it revisited parts of U.S. history that we hadn’t fully covered in depth, filling in gaps while keeping the focus beyond the same repeated storylines. My son was excited about the structure, and we’re already eagerly awaiting the release of Volume 2. For those areas we wanted to revist this year they are on the list and planned out.
For anyone looking to bring in Afrocentric perspectives that go beyond surface-level coverage, this curriculum is a gem. Be sure to check out my full review of it for more details!
Mint & Bloom: Fresh Voices in History
Next, I flipped through Mint and Bloom’s new Middle School/High School History curriculum when it dropped this summer and was impressed by how they flipped the narrative. Their approach intentionally gives voice to the unheard and emphasizes stories that often get overlooked in standard textbooks.
I especially appreciated:
Interactivity: Activities that get kids thinking, analyzing, and connecting the past to the present.
Representation: Their textbook selections felt intentional and inclusive, bringing in diverse perspectives.
While we won’t be using it as a standalone this year, Mint & Bloom is going to be a strong partner in shaping our history journey, the great part is I already owned about 90% of the books
Oh Freedom High School: Pieces We’re Keeping
We also considered Oh Freedom High School, but ultimately Volume 1 wasn’t a perfect fit for what we were looking for this year. Still, I couldn’t walk away from it entirely. I really liked the journal component and some of the book selections, which we’ll be weaving into our studies.
Sometimes the best curriculum isn’t an all-or-nothing choice it’s about pulling what works for your family and leaving the rest.
Creating Our Own Path
After reviewing these resources, I decided to merge the best parts of each and write our own history plan. This way, we can focus on the topics that matter most to us: the hidden stories, the overlooked communities, and the rich contributions of people who shaped history but rarely get center stage in textbooks.
This blend allows us to honor Reconstruction, dive into critical turning points like the Chicano Moratorium and the Dawes Act, and explore movements like the Black Panther Party and the Young Lords in a way that feels empowering, not exhausting.
Conclusion: Reclaiming Our History
This journey taught me that it’s okay to say no to the traditional script and yes to something that works better for us. History isn’t just about memorizing dates—it’s about understanding whose voices are amplified and whose are silenced.
By blending Shifting Perspectives, Mint & Bloom, and select pieces from Oh Freedom, we’ve built a history curriculum that doesn’t retraumatize, but instead empowers. We’re reclaiming history in a way that brings truth, representation, and healing into our homeschool. The great part is we can take our time we use these histories over the next two years.
For us, history this year isn’t about what’s always been taught it’s about uncovering what’s been hidden.
A 365-Day Journey Through the Animal Kingdom, One Fascinating Creature at a Time!
We received An Animal A Day in exchange for our honest review from Timberdoodle Co.
If you’re a homeschool parent on the hunt for a stunning, engaging, and educational book to add to your nature or science shelf, look no further. An Animal A Day: 365 Amazing Animals To Take You Through the Yearis the kind of book that instantly captures attention and keeps curious minds coming back for more. Whether your family leans into the Waldorf, Montessori, or Charlotte Mason philosophy or just has a deep love for nature this book is going to feel like a perfect fit.
Better yet, it’s been announced that this beautiful book will be included in the upcoming 2025–2026 select Timberdoodle Curriculum Kits! And after using it firsthand during our homeschool mornings, I can tell you it’s an absolute gem.
What’s Inside the Book?
An Animal A Day is exactly what it promises a full year of remarkable creatures, one for every single day. Each page features:
A vivid, full-color illustration of an animal (some rare, some familiar, all fascinating)
Fun, bite-sized facts that are digestible yet spark deep curiosity
The scientific name and geographic region of the animal
Occasional fun facts, myths, and natural history notes
The layout is clean, visually appealing, and feels like a cross between a naturalist’s field journal and an artist’s sketchbook. It makes learning feel magical.
Let’s Talk About Those Illustrations
The artwork is nothing short of stunning. Bold yet gentle, realistic yet whimsical it walks that perfect line between textbook clarity and storybook wonder. My middle schooler was immediately drawn to the pictures and spent extra time flipping through the pages even after our morning session had ended.
These illustrations aren’t just pretty they’ve been a launching pad for deeper learning in our home. On more than one occasion, my son has independently looked up more about an animal’s habitat, diet, and conservation status. It’s been incredible to see him take that initiative just from being inspired by a picture book.
How We Use It in Our Homeschool
We’ve added An Animal A Dayto our Morning Start-Up routine—what we call our gentle start to the day. With a cup of tea and the sun streaming in, this book becomes a daily moment of connection, curiosity, and calm.
We read one animal entry aloud, admire the artwork, and then chat about the creature’s region, adaptations, and anything else that sparks our interest. Some days we even map the animal’s home on our wall map, and other times we turn it into a mini science notebook entry.
It’s also perfect for:
Morning baskets
Science warm-ups
Nature table displays
Independent reading time
Supplementing unit studies on ecosystems, biomes, or continents
Who Will Love This Book?
This book is a must-have for:
Students in upper elementary to middle school, though even many high schoolers will be enchanted by the quality and variety of content.
Animal lovers and budding zoologists of all ages.
Families using Waldorf or Montessori methods, who appreciate nature-led learning and beautiful visuals.
Charlotte Mason homeschoolers, who will treasure the living-book style and gentle yet rich narration.
Nature journalers, looking for a springboard into drawing or writing about the natural world.
Final Thoughts
As a homeschool mom with years of experience curating resources, An Animal A Day has quickly become a top-tier favorite in our homeschool space. It’s rare to find a book that hits so many sweet spots educational, beautiful, engaging, and versatile but this one truly does.
If your child lights up when spotting a creature in the wild or begs to visit the zoo “just one more time,” then An Animal A Day will be their new favorite part of the homeschool day. It has brought a new sense of wonder and exploration into our mornings, and I can’t recommend it enough.
As a homeschool mom I thrive on finding the best curriculum for my science-loving son, I was eager to try Berean Science in the Atomic Age for middle schoolers. If your child is not a fan of science, let me be clear this curriculum is not for them. However, if your student is like mine, who loves diving deep into scientific concepts, experiments, and discoveries, this program is a fantastic choice. Berean Science in the Atomic Age is a faith-based, comprehensive and critical thinking science curriculum. Now in my honest opinion I will say that it was not overly religious and so families who prefer secular curriculum will still find this of value.
A high-quality hardcover textbook that reminds me of a high school-level science book. As well as answer key & Test. Comprehension questions and answers can be found in the textboook.
Hands-On Learning with Lab Reports
The experiments in this curriculum are well-planned and engaging. To ensure my son fully grasped the scientific process, I had him write out a full lab report for each experiment. However, one thing I would have loved is if the curriculum had included a lab report template—that would have made things even smoother!
Topics Covered
This curriculum takes an in-depth approach to science and is structured to provide a deep understanding of various topics. Some of the major concepts covered include:
The atomic structure and properties of matter
The periodic table and chemical reactions
Energy, forces, and motion
Biological molecules and life processes
Earth’s structure and atmospheric science
The role of scientists in historical discoveries
While the textbook is incredibly informative, I found that it lacked diversity in the scientists mentioned. To ensure my son had a well-rounded view of scientific contributions, I supplemented with our own resources that highlight diverse scientists and their discoveries.
Experiments and Lab Reports
My son completed hands-on experiments included in the curriculum.
Instead of just observing results, I required him to write a full lab report for each experiment.
I would have loved if the curriculum included a lab report template to make this process more structured.
The comprehension questions were great, but I wish they were on a separate printable instead of only in the textbook.I later discovered that there is separate student notebook sold, but by different vendor. It was not available on Berean Builders website.
A lab report template would have been a fantastic addition to the set.
Greater diversity in the scientists mentioned would have enriched the learning experience, though I supplemented this with our own research.
Who Would Benefit From This Curriculum?
Students who love science and want to take a deep dive into complex topics.
Middle schoolers ready for high school-level content* presented in an engaging and structured way.
Homeschool parents who enjoy a structured, textbook-based science program with strong academic rigor.
Families who don’t mind supplementing with additional resources* to ensure a well-rounded science education.
Final Thoughts
Overall, Berean Science in the Atomic Age is a fantastic curriculum for science-loving middle schoolers who want to explore advanced concepts. It is not a light or casual program, so I would only recommend it for students who truly enjoy science. Despite some minor drawbacks, this curriculum will remain in our science loop rotation as a valuable and rigorous resource for our homeschool.
I’ve always been intentional about choosing curricula that align with our family’s educational philosophy one that allows for depth, flexibility, and meaningful learning. Oak Meadow has been a staple in our homeschool journey, and using Oak Meadow Grade 8 during my son’s 7th-grade year has only deepened our appreciation for its approach.
Starting 7th Grade: Wrapping Up Oak Meadow 7
We began our 7th-grade homeschool year by wrapping up Oak Meadow Grade 7, which provided a solid foundation across subjects. The transition into Oak Meadow 8 felt natural, as the program builds on previous concepts in a way that encourages curiosity and critical thinking. The seamless progression, especially in English and Science, made it easy for us to move forward without feeling rushed.
First Semester: Civics and Government
One of the best decisions we made this year was pairing Oak Meadow 8 Civics with my son’s online Introduction to Government class. This combination provided a rich and layered understanding of how our government works. Oak Meadow’s curriculum emphasizes civic engagement and critical thinking, and the mix of reading, writing, and hands-on activities made the subject engaging. The online class provided a more structured, discussion-based element, which complemented Oak Meadow’s student-led approach beautifully.
I really wanted to be a Cardio Surgeon for the last four years, but now I am reconsidering since using Oak Meadow 8 Civics I am falling in love with all things law and I like what I have been studying, that has me looking into civil law! – Jai age 12
Second Semester: Continuing with Civics and Diving into Law
For the second semester, my son transitioned into an Introduction to Law class online while continuing with Oak Meadow 8 Civics. The curriculum’s flexibility has allowed him to explore legal concepts while reinforcing what he’s learned about government. Oak Meadow encourages deep, reflective discussions, and we’ve had some of our best conversations this year about justice, rights, and the role of laws in society.
English: A Deeper Dive into Storytelling
One of the highlights of using Oak Meadow 8 has been our deeper dive into English, particularly story plots and elements in literature. The curriculum includes diverse literature selections, which have made reading and discussions enjoyable and thought-provoking. We’ve spent extra time analyzing character development, themes, and writing styles, which has enhanced my son’s appreciation for storytelling. Oak Meadow’s open-ended assignments and discussion prompts have also encouraged him to think critically about what he reads rather than just answering comprehension questions.
Favorite book this year from Oak Meadow 8 English is hands down Baseballs in April. This book has given me the opportunity to reflect on my relationships with peers in positive way! – Jai age 12
Math: Adding Rigor with Saxon Pre-Algebra
Our Oak Meadow 8 package included Saxon Pre-Algebra, but since my son was already using another Pre-Algebra program as his core, we used Saxon as a supplement for extra practice and rigor. This approach has worked well because Saxon’s spiral review reinforced concepts he was learning in his primary math program. Having access to an additional resource gave him more opportunities to master skills without feeling overwhelmed.
Middle Schooler Thoughts
Hey everyone thought I jump in on this review when talking about the math part. Well honestly I have not been a fan of anything Saxon since my fifth grade year, so when my mom told me Oak Meadow 8 came with Saxon I went into panic mode. Well I have better feeling about the Saxon Algebra 1/2. I like how we used it to support my core Pre-Algebra curriculum. So I will give it a thumbs up!!!
Science: Enjoying Labs and Preparing for High School
Science has been another standout subject this year. Oak Meadow’s hands-on approach has allowed my son to take his time with labs, focusing on proper methodology and recording findings. This has been great preparation for high school-level science, as he’s learning the importance of writing detailed, structured lab reports. The curriculum’s emphasis on observation and inquiry has encouraged him to ask deeper questions, sparking a genuine interest in scientific exploration. I must mention that my son loves all things science so this year he did Oak Meadow 8 Science 1st Semester and he will finish it over the summer. He tends to like to do two science curriculum, because that is one of his favorite subjects and he likes to pile it on.
Continuing Through the Summer and Early Fall
We are still using Oak Meadow 8 in our second semester and plan to continue through the summer, wrapping up in early fall. This timeline works perfectly for us because it allows for a stress-free, enriched learning experience, where we can take breaks when needed while still maintaining consistency.
Who Is Oak Meadow 8 Ideal For?
Oak Meadow 8 is an excellent choice for families who want a literature-rich, project-based curriculum that allows for deep engagement and critical thinking. It’s ideal for:
Independent learners who enjoy self-directed studies with parent support.
Families who prefer a relaxed but rigorous approach, allowing time for exploration.
Students who enjoy hands-on science and history projects rather than textbook-heavy learning.
Those looking for a diverse and meaningful literature selection in English.
Final Thoughts
Our experience with Oak Meadow 8 has been fantastic. The curriculum has provided a balanced mix of structure and flexibility, giving my son the freedom to explore topics deeply while still covering essential academic skills. The diverse literature, engaging science labs, and thought-provoking history lessons have made this year incredibly rewarding. We will be moving forward with few Oak Meadow for High School course in the fall, so be on the look out for our unboxing. If you’re looking for a curriculum that encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and meaningful learning, Oak Meadow is definitely worth considering!
As we progress through our homeschool journey, two Master Books curriculums Living Healthy and General Science 1: Survey of Earth & Sky have become part of our routine. Each has its unique strengths, and while one is a perfect fit, the other has its merits, even though it didn’t fully align with our needs. Here’s a closer look at both programs:
Living Healthy: A Wonderful Health Curriculum
We’ve been thoroughly enjoying Living Healthy! This curriculum has not only met our state’s health education requirements but has also held my son’s attention with its engaging content. It covers important topics on health, nutrition, and the human body in a way that’s accessible for middle school students.
What has been particularly rewarding are the thoughtful conversations the lessons have sparked. We’ve had many deeper discussions about the human body, healthy habits, and overall wellness. The curriculum provides just enough structure while allowing us to take our own deep dives into areas of interest, making learning more interactive and personal.
The activities included are fun and varied, keeping my son engaged while reinforcing what he’s learned. Additionally, the flexibility to omit certain sections that weren’t the best fit for us was a big plus, allowing us to tailor it to our family’s needs.
General Science 1: Survey of Earth & Sky – Beautiful, But Not Our Fit
While General Science 1: Survey of Earth & Sky wasn’t a perfect fit for our family’s approach to science, it certainly has its strengths. The colorful, visually appealing reference books have been a great resource for my son, especially when he’s looking for well-presented diagrams and detailed images of Earth, space, and scientific concepts.
Though the curriculum’s biblical-based approach didn’t quite align with our homeschooling style, I can see it being an excellent choice for families who prefer a faith-integrated science curriculum. The material is solid, and it offers a comprehensive introduction to earth and space science topics, with room for discussion on biblical perspectives.
Flexible and Engaging Curriculum
Overall, both Master Books Living Healthy and General Science 1: Survey of Earth & Sky are well-crafted curriculum. We found Living Healthy to be the perfect match for meeting our health education needs and keeping my son intrigued by the subject matter. General Science 1, while not the best fit for us, still offers great resources, especially for families seeking a biblical perspective in science.
What I appreciate most about both curriculum’s is their flexibility. You can tweak them, omit parts that don’t work, and still have a solid educational tool that adapts to your family’s needs. Both curriculums show that learning can be flexible, engaging, and enriching, especially when it’s tailored to suit your homeschool journey.
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We received Know Your Body 3-Book Bundle #2 for our honest review from Timberdoodle Co.
As a homeschool mom with a future doctor in the house, I’m always on the lookout for resources that nurture my son’s passion for medicine. The Know Your Body 3-Book Bundle #2 from Know Yourself Company, part of Timberdoodle Co’s 8th grade curriculum, has been a fantastic addition to our homeschool library. As long-time users of the Systems of the Body: Adventure Series, we’ve always appreciated Know Yourself’s ability to make complex biological concepts accessible and fun for young learners. This bundle goes above and beyond, offering a deeper dive into the wonders of the human body that’s perfect for middle schoolers like my son
Here’s a breakdown of what each book in the bundle offers and why they’ve been a game-changer for our homeschool journey:
Book 4: The Digestive System
This book takes readers on a journey through the digestive process in a way that truly comes alive. From the mouth to the stomach and all the way to the intestines, the illustrations and explanations help break down the complex functions into bite-sized (pun intended!) sections that are easy to digest—literally and figuratively. My son loved learning about enzymes and how food gets absorbed into the bloodstream. It also sparked a lot of discussion about healthy eating and how to support digestive health. For any middle schooler curious about how their body processes food, this book is a must-read.
Book 5: The Renal System
The kidneys, bladder, and the entire urinary system get their time to shine in this detailed exploration of the renal system. This book explains the filtration process in the kidneys and how waste is removed from the blood, a topic that fascinated my son. He found the diagrams extremely helpful, and the quizzes at the end of each chapter tested his knowledge in a fun way. The renal system can seem like a dry subject (pun again intended!), but this book manages to make it engaging and interactive, which is a real testament to the authors. It’s more than just memorizing facts; the book encourages problem-solving and critical thinking, which is crucial for middle schoolers stepping into more advanced studies.
Book 6: The Skeletal System
Out of the three, the skeletal system book was my son’s favorite. He has a deep interest in anatomy, and this book gave him a clear understanding of how bones function, from providing structure to producing blood cells. The book does a fantastic job explaining how bones work in tandem with muscles and ligaments, bringing the human skeleton to life in a fascinating way. The exercises at the end of the chapters were particularly beneficial for reinforcing learning and helped my son think critically about how our body’s framework supports everything we do.
How These Books Differ from the Systems of the Body: Adventure Series
While we have been long-time users of the Systems of the Body: Adventure Series, the Know Your Body 3-Book Bundle #2offers a more detailed, in-depth look into each body system. The Adventure Series focuses on broader overviews with an adventurous storyline, which was fantastic for introducing concepts to my son when he was younger. Now, at the middle school level, the Know Your Bodyseries brings a more mature approach. It dives deeper into scientific processes and encourages critical thinking through hands-on activities and real-world connections. These books are an ideal fit for older students who are ready to take their understanding to the next level.
Why It’s Perfect for Middle Schoolers
The Know Your Body books strike a perfect balance between fun and educational content. The tone is light and engaging, yet the information is comprehensive enough to challenge a middle school student. My son, who is highly motivated and loves to learn about the human body, found these books incredibly fulfilling. They pushed him to think like a scientist and future doctor, while still being accessible enough for independent learning.
Know Yourself Academy: The Next Step in Learning
We’re also excited to explore the new Know Yourself Academy online platform, launched by the same creators. As homeschoolers who have loved their books, this online platform seems like a natural progression. It promises to offer a rich, interactive learning environment that complements the print materials. For a child with big dreams of becoming a doctor, having access to these kinds of high-quality educational tools is invaluable.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Have for Aspiring Young Doctors
If your child has an interest in science or medicine, I highly recommend the Know Your Body 3-Book Bundle #2 from Know Yourself. These books offer a perfect blend of fun, education, and depth, especially for middle schoolers who are ready to dive deeper into the workings of the human body. Whether your child dreams of becoming a doctor or is just curious about how their body works, this bundle is a fantastic tool for fostering that curiosity and making learning both interactive and meaningful.
Why Combining Math & Science Makes Learning Fun and Engaging!
As a long-time homeschool mom, I’ve explored many different curricula over the years, and SPORK Butterfly Math & Science 1st Grade has caught my attention for its innovative and hands-on approach. This curriculum seamlessly combines math and science into a unified program, which is not only practical but also exciting for young learners. I can’t help but wish this program was around when my science-loving son was in 1st grade!
SPORK is an ideal choice for any homeschool family with a child who:
Thrives with hands-on learning and loves experimenting with real-world concepts.
Is naturally curious about science and how things work.
Needs a curriculum that integrates different subjects, reducing the need for separate lessons.
Enjoys a mixture of online interactive components and physical, tangible manipulatives.
SPORK combines these subjects in a way that feels natural and fluid, allowing children to develop a solid foundation in both math and science while fostering a love for learning.
A Science-Loving Child’s Dream
Looking back, I know this would have been a great fit for my son when he was in 1st grade. He was always drawn to science, and having math lessons woven into his favorite subject would have been a perfect match for his interests. SPORK Butterfly Math & Science 1st Grade provides opportunities for students to engage in hands-on experiments and investigations, which would have captivated his attention and made learning math concepts feel relevant and fun.
Why the Integration of Math and Science Works
Combining math and science into one curriculum is a brilliant concept. Children naturally encounter math during science experiments (think counting, measuring, comparing), so this integration helps them understand the connection between the two. Rather than treating them as separate subjects, SPORK brings them together in a way that builds a holistic understanding. This approach also reduces the need for separate lesson planning, which is always a win in a busy homeschool day!
One of the highlights of the SPORK curriculum is the hands-on manipulatives that come with the homeschool bundle. These materials allow children to physically interact with math and science concepts, helping to solidify their understanding. Whether it’s measuring tools, counting objects, or science experiment kits, SPORK offers tactile learning that suits kids who need to “learn by doing.”
On the online side, SPORK has developed interactive lessons and activities that further enhance learning. These components include:
Virtual labs where children can simulate scientific experiments.
Interactive math problems that adjust to your child’s learning pace.
Engaging videos that explain scientific concepts in a kid-friendly way.
The blend of online learning with physical manipulatives makes SPORK a versatile curriculum that appeals to visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learners.
The homeschool bundle is packed with all the essentials you’ll need for a successful year:
Purchase includes 18 month license
A comprehensive teacher’s guide that walks you through daily lessons and activities.
Access to the online platform with interactive math and science lessons.
Physical manipulatives like counting blocks, measuring tools, science experiment kits, and more.
A student workbook that includes engaging activities, practice problems, and space for journaling scientific discoveries.
Printable worksheets and extra resources to further support each unit.
Learning Styles Supported by SPORK
SPORK Math & Science is an excellent fit for several learning styles:
Visual learners will appreciate the colorful, interactive online lessons and videos.
Kinesthetic learners will thrive with the hands-on activities and experiments.
Auditory learners will benefit from the narrated lessons and verbal instructions provided in both the online component and teacher’s guide.
SPORK Butterfly Math & Science 1st Grade is a standout curriculum that brings the best of both subjects into one cohesive package. With its engaging, hands-on approach and seamless integration of math and science, it offers a rich learning experience that would benefit any child. If you have a little one who’s curious about the world, loves to explore, or simply needs a dynamic, well-rounded program, SPORK might just be the perfect fit for your homeschool!
Little Learner and Mom 