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September 2003
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In the September issue:
~ Self-University Week ~
~ The Things I Really Want My Kids To Learn ~
~ Free "Make A Difference" Kit ~
~ Questions And Answers ~
~ Unschooling.Com's Unschooling 101 List~
~ For The Love Of History ~
~ Kilauea Volcano Keeps Going ~
~ Youth Leadersip Initiative ~
~ The Final Word ~
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"Unschooling is hugely about a child's ability to learn everything he needs to naturally. But it is also about a parent learning how to be what the child needs. We already know how to be what society says a parent should be. We get that message everywhere, everyday, from experts and specialists, and it was poured into us from our parents. But what we need to learn is how to be an unschooling parent to our unschooling children.
Unschooling takes a lot of self-examination. It's painful. It tore my heart out and I died and was reborn into a woman who looks critically at herself rather than her child. I look critically at me instead of TV, instead of food, instead of video games. The result is a child who is by any standard, intelligent, thoughtful, self controlled, happy, capable and confident. He is also a child who can look critically at TV, food and video games. It's really that simple.
If we are afraid of what's inside of us, we will never ever get to where unschooling will unfold for us in all it's perfection. It starts inside every parent and until we're willing to reexamine everything we think we know about parenting and adulthood and childhood we will never be unschooling."
~~ Deb Lewis on the Unschooling-Café e-list ~~
To join the Unschooling-Cafe e-mail list visit http://groups.yahoo.com/group/unschooling-cafe or send an e-mail to unschooling-cafe-subscribe@yahoogroups.com
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SELF-UNIVERSITY WEEK
http://www.autodidactic.com/selfweek.htm
"Chase's Annual Events" lists the first seven days of September as Self-University Week. The purpose of Self-University Week is to remind adults (in school or out) that each of us has a responsibility to help shape the future by pursuing lifelong education...
Answers to our most pressing problems are found in self-education and the willingness to use reason in reaching equitable solutions. The external push for degrees in order to qualify for high-paying jobs often blinds us to the fact that education is as necessary for our general well being as it is for economic opportunity.
Self-University offers "52 Ways to Celebrate Self-University Week," including some that are creative and inspiring.
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THE THINGS I REALLY WANT MY KIDS TO LEARN
http://www.homeedmag.com/HEM/205/sokidslearn.html
By September, every homeschooler in our state has outlined her proposed curriculum and sent it off to the local school district. I never found the forms our school district sent us particularly useful. They provided a planning sheet divided into small boxes, each about 2 inches by 3 inches, into which I was supposed to write all the topics I wished to cover--as well as books I would use.
I never did use the forms. Instead I wrote a descriptive curriculum outline, but it never seemed to include some of the more important things I hoped to teach my children. Things like independence and skepticism.
I started thinking about this the other day when a friend asked me, "What do you think every girl ought to know?"
"I've got guys," I told her, "but I think I'd put 'making your own lunch' at the top of the list." Knowing how to make a tuna sandwich or whip up a pot of macaroni is as important as knowing how to divide fractions. Maybe even more important.
When my children demonstrated their competence in fridge-opening skills, I responded by writing a list of acceptable snacks and taping it to the door. It read: "apples, cheese and crackers, yogurt." Of course, it never dawned on me that they wouldn't be able to read this list with the fridge door open!
I provided non-lethal tools, such as cheese slicers, and gave a guided tour of the kitchen cupboards. "Cooking is neither 'boy' work nor 'girl' work," I told them. "It's a basic survival skill and every bit as valuable as knowing how to light the fire in the woodstove."
If I were writing a curriculum today, I would include growing a garden and knowing how to make a shelter anytime, anywhere, from what's at hand. Sure, it sounds like Survivor, but considering the number of employed people who find themselves homeless, I wonder why leaf shelters aren't included in high school design and architecture class.
I would list mending socks and sewing patches on uniforms right up there with the three R's. Why should Mom be the one to mend the ripped wind pants?
According to statistics, children have a lot of disposable income, and savvy advertisers know this. In a typical 5th-grade math class, a teacher might introduce unit pricing, but there's more to shopping than how much a thing costs.
I admit that shopping for food was never difficult. My guys have a vested interest in what they eat. It was easy to help them learn how write up a list and figure out the best deal for half gallons of ice cream.
Shopping for clothes and other household essentials is an entirely different matter. "New socks simply don't materialize out of the air," I tell them. They think I'm an ogre for taking them clothes shopping until my oldest son notices the baggy khakis I'm wearing.
"Those are cool, mom. Where'd you get them?"
"At the thrift store," I tell him.
"Can you get me a pair?"
"Only if you come with me." I explain the 'no exchange' rule they have, and he allows that maybe trying things on before you buy them might have advantages. Not only does shopping offer an opportunity to learn about how money fits into household budget, it gives us a forum for discussing brand names and sweatshop labor issues."
~~ Sue Smith-Heavenrich in the September/October issue of Home Education Magazine ~~
You can read the rest of this article, as well as some other articles and columns from the current HEM at the address above, but you'll have to get the magazine--the one you hold in your hands--to read them all! See subscription information in this newsletter, or visit your local bookseller to get your copy today.
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FREE "MAKE A DIFFERENCE" KIT
http://www.epa.gov/epaoswer/osw/students.htm
The Environmental Protection Agency's "Make a Difference" campaign encourages teens to make informed decisions in their day-to-day lives to help protect the environment. As part of the campaign, EPA is offering free copies of a resource kit that can inspire teens to find environmental volunteer and service-learning opportunities, pursue environmental careers, initiate school or community reuse and recycling programs, and learn about the environmental impacts of different products. The materials not only teach teens about waste reduction issues, but also show them how to become involved and make a positive imprint on the world.
The kit includes:
? A Collection of Solid Waste Resources on CD-ROM - 2002 Edition
? "Greenscaping" Your Lawn and Garden
? Reuse + Recycling = Waste Reduction: A Guide for Schools and Groups
? Service Learning: Education Beyond the Classroom
? The Life Cycle of a CD or DVD
? Volunteer for Change: A Guide to Environmental Community Service (also en Español)
? You Can Make a Difference: Learn About Careers in Waste Management
The CD provides scores of informative PDF documents-including lesson plans-under the headings of composting, used motor oil, environmental education, household hazardous waste, source reduction and much more. In the kids' activities section, find detective games, activity books, Shockwave games, a comic book and more.
You can also create your own kit. Limited quantities of some parts of the "Your Life, Your World, Your Choices" kit are available separately.
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QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
Do you have questions that Dear Abby just can't answer? Questions about homeschooling and other issues that affect your family? Help is as close as your keyboard. HEM offers advice from a seasoned homeschool mom in every issue. Just send your questions to AskCarol@homeedmag.com . Of course, Carol can't answer every question in the magazine, but she will try to respond even if your question isn't published. Why wonder and worry? Send your questions today!
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UNSCHOOLING.COM
http://www.unschooling.com
Unschooling 101
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Unschooling-101
The staff of Unschooling.com has created several new discussion lists for unschoolers and anyone interested in exploring the unschooling philosophy. Unschooling 101 is "a place to learn about unschooling from experienced unschoolers."
List members have been discussing topics such as buying "school supplies," unschooling very young children, junk food, books, creating a rich environment, and more.
You can join via email by sending a message to
Unschooling-101-subscribe@yahoogroups.com .
For information about the Unschooling.com site visit:
http://www.unschooling.com
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FOR THE LOVE OF HISTORY
When I was in school, history was among my least favorite subjects. I had no interest in achieving rote memorization of the names and dates of wars. My schools' mode of teaching history mostly taught me that there was no connection between the past and me.
Fortunately, as I gained experiences outside of school, I came to understand that history isn't about dates and names, but the stories of human beings, the stories of my ancestors, and, one day, of myself. I came to love finding out how people were affected by their times, and vice versa. Then I managed to give birth to two girls who turned out to love history even more than I do! My children's idea of a great afternoon is coming home from the library with bulging book bags, and curling up to read, read, read about history. Below are some of our favorite history sites. I hope you enjoy them, too!
-Shay
? TalkingHistory.org
http://www.talkinghistory.org
Search this archive of a weekly broadcast/internet radio program that "focuses on all aspects of history: how we recall it, how we preserve it, how we interpret it, how we transform it into myth, and how we pass it on...The radio show is aimed at a non-professional audience, and is dedicated to bridging the gap between the history profession and a history-hungry public." Listen on RealPlayer or MP3.
? Digital History
http://www.digitalhistory.uh.edu
A fantastic primary resource site offering an immense digital archive of links to information that includes historic photos, documents, newspapers, journal entries, maps, famous speeches and music.
? Lewis and Clark as Naturalists
http://web4.si.edu/lewisandclark
This site, hosted by the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History, lets visitors "travel" with Lewis and Clark across the Great Plains and into the
Pacific Northwest, examining the plants and animals they encountered. Because so few of the specimens collected by the explorers are intact, most of those exhibited are from the Smithsonian's collection. An interactive map and lesson plans round out the site. To view the site in full you'll need Acrobat Reader, Flash, and Quick Time (Downloads for all are available free at the site.)
? Neferchichi's Tomb
http://www.neferchichi.com
Lots of fun stuff at this Ancient Egypt site owned by a hip Chihuahua: hieroglyphics, gods and goddesses, pharaohs, simulated papyrus and mummies, clip art and fonts, and even Egyptian mad libs!
? Social Studies at A to Z Home's Cool
http://www.gomilpitas.com/homeschooling/directory/SocialStudies.htm#World
Ann Zeise's extraordinary site is a wonderful resource for history lovers. This page offers reviewed links for American history, ancient history, civics, geography, people, and world culture and history.
? Hyperhistory
http://www.hyperhistory.com/online_n2/History_n2/a.html
A timeline site with "over 2,000 files covering 3,000 years," this is a fun place to poke around and see what interesting stuff you didn't already know.
? History Channel: This Day in History
http://www.historychannel.com/tdih
Information about historical events organized around topics such as the Cold War, literature, the Old West, technology, Wall Street, and the Civil War. Entries for some of the more recent events include short video clips.
? Presidents' Hall
http://www.whitehouse.gov/history/presidents
The White House's Presidents' Hall provides biographies of all presidents in order of date of service. Also, find information about the First Ladies, the White House, events and traditions, a "kids quiz" and more.
? Presidents Who Owned Slaves
http://www.rethinkingschools.org/archive/16_04/Writ164.shtml
A school program that broke out of the box and includes interesting questions.
? "Our Documents" Teacher Sourcebook
http://www.ourdocuments.gov
The "Our Documents Teacher Sourcebook" is a free resource created by National History Day, Inc. in cooperation with the National Archives that transports educators back in time to 100 critical moments in our nation's history. The sourcebook provides educators with lesson plans and activities that will help them incorporate 100 milestone documents from American history into the curriculum. Includes an annotated timeline, key themes, guidelines to primary sources, and detailed lesson plans.
? Mr. Donn's Ancient History
http://members.aol.com/donnandlee/index.html
Great links to resources under the subjects of Aztecs, Mayans, Celts, Middle Ages, India, Early Man, Africa, and lots more.
? Natural History Online
http://www.enaturalist.org
The Roger Tory Peterson Institute of Natural History provides this resource that offers 60 units (aimed at children in grades K-8) on-line now, with plans to add a new one each week during the 2003-2004 school year.
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HEM'S CURRENT ISSUE
http://www.homeedmag.com/HEM/205.html
In the September-October/03 issue of Home Education Magazine, you'll enjoy articles on Tracking the Wild Homeschooler, learning through family activism, Your Job and Homeschooling, volunteering in the community and coming home rich, and more.
Column topics include: Linda Dobson on "the cursive writing window of opportunity," Laura Weldon's answers to the "baby blues and moneybags" questions, Larry and Susan Kaseman on why homeschoolers should "say no to the federal homeschool legislation (HR 2732), Elizabeth McCullough's reviews of two of the latest homeschooling books, and Ann Lahrson Fisher on legislation, a unique homeschool project, and homeschooling in the news. Other columnists include Ann Zeise, Sandra Dodd, Rebecca Rupp, David Albert, Laura Weldon and Carol Narigon.
HEM also offers publisher Helen Hegener's essay on how families are affected by institutionalized education, as well as classified ads, letters and discussion, pen pals and networking, and more.
To mark our 20th year, Home Education Magazine is offering a one year introductory subscription for $20.00! (reg $32.00)
To take advantage of this price mention HEM Online News when contacting us. To order write: Home Education Magazine, PO Box 1083, Tonasket WA 98855; call toll-free 1-800-236-3278; email orders@homeedmag.com. Or use our secure online form at: http://www.homeedmag.com/ORD/_hemonline.html. MC/Visa/Disc cards accepted.
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KILAUEA VOLCANO KEEPS GOING
http://hvo.wr.usgs.gov/kilauea/update
This volcano on Hawaii's Big Island has been erupting for 20 years. The eruption, which began in 1983, and shows no signs of slowing down, is the longest on Kilauea's rift zone in 600 years. It has covered nearly 200 buildings and around 8 miles of highway and added 220 hectares (544 acres) to the island's southern shore. Kilauea is Hawaii's youngest volcano and The most active. USGS scientists keep a watchful eye on this incredibly active volcano 24 hours a day. This site provides vivid color images, maps, and video of Kilauea and other volcanoes.
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YOUTH LEADERSIP INITIATIVE
http://www9.youthleadership.net/youthleadership/register
YLI is a national citizenship education and engagement program designed to involve students in the American electoral and policymaking process. YLI develops K-12 classroom projects, resources, and social studies course units that are specifically linked to each state's unique academic curriculum standards.
Each fall, the Youth Leadership Initiative conducts the largest on-line mock election in the nation using individualized e-ballots. YLI also offers students the opportunity to portray a campaign manager for a U.S. Senate candidate in the fictitious state of Franklin in YLI's political campaign adventure CD ROM, "A More Perfect Union."
Later in the year, YLI hosts an Internet project, "e-Congress," where students can simulate the role of a congressional representative by researching, drafting, and voting for student legislation. In addition, the Youth Leadership Initiative helps to build a bridge between community service projects and long-term civic participation through the YLI "Democracy Corps."
There is no charge for teachers or schools to participate. Registration provides access to resources for the K-12 classroom throughout the school year as well as the opportunity for your students to participate in innovative civic education projects.
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HEM ONLINE NEWS UNCLASSIFIED ADVERTISING
For information on purchasing unclassified advertising space in this newsletter, please contact the editor at Newsletter@homeedmag.com .
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USBORNE
UsborneAmerica.com
Internet-linked science and history titles, including Knights, Whales and Dolphins! Monitored websites give you updated and fascinating information. Register for $50 in free books! Want to make extra money for the holidays? Flexible, rewarding business allows income at whatever level you desire and fall is a great time to start. Email sharonve@aol.com or call 888-474-8499. Sharon Madden, Independent supervisor, UsborneAmerica.com.
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GNARLY MATH
gnarlymath.com
"REALLY FUN, AND A GREAT WAY TO LEARN MATH!" Do you wish your kids found math "really fun"? Then join the hundreds of folks who have discovered the magical value of our CD-ROM Solid Gold Gnarly Math. It makes algebra, geometry, trig, and probability easy, natural, and enjoyable. Try it. You can't lose -- It's guaranteed to please, or your money back. Learn about it at http://www.gnarlymath.com , where you'll also find the "Math Magic" issue of our free humorous math newsletter, the Gnarly Gnews
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THE RESOURCEFUL HOMESCHOOLER
resourcefulhomeschooler.com
Looking for something to do? Why not: ** Stage a Costume Ball from the Middle Ages ** Fly Through Human Anatomy ** Take a Virtual Walk through the Rainforest ** Program a Robot ** Build a Computer Game ** The Resourceful Homeschooler carries great books, science materials and kits, learning games, and the most interesting software. Visit http://www.resourcefulhomeschooler.com. Materials to involve, inspire and support independent learners of all ages!
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TEACH YOUR CHILD TO READ! TRY ONLINE LESSONS NOW FOR FREE!
HeadSprout.com
Headsprout Reading is the fun, Internet-delivered beginning reading program that will give your child a real advantage by systematically teaching essential skills and strategies ensuring reading success and confidence. Outstanding fast results! After just five 20-minute animated, interactive episodes, children read their first Headsprout book. Act quickly! For a limited time you can try out Headsprout Reading FOR FREE!
http://www.headsprout.com Please enter the promotional code: HEMSEP2003
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FINAL WORD
"It is paradoxical that many educators and parents still differentiate between a time for learning and a time for play without seeing the vital connection between them.
~~ Leo Buscaglia ~~
See you next month!
Shay Seaborne, Newsletter Editor
Newsletter Email
Mark and Helen Hegener, Publishers of Home Education Magazine
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