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Article Archive
Browse through an assortment of homeschooling articles (with the most recent articles found near the top) to learn more about homeschooling methods, terrific websites of interest and how you can get started today.
If you don't find what you are looking for here, check out Budget Home$chool, where you will find links to free education resources online, sorted by subject. You can save time and money. The kids will love learning when you introduce them to these exciting educational websites.
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2008 Archives
Bootie Zimmer's Choice - Page 5
We had a perfectly literate country before 1852 when, for the first time, we got government schooling shoved down our throats. How we achieved this amazing literacy is wrapped up in the secret that reading, writing and numbers are very easy to learn -- in spite of what you hear from the reading, writing and number establishments.
The Six-Lesson Schoolteacher
Twenty-six years ago, having nothing better to do, I tried my hand at schoolteaching. My license certifies me as an instructor of English language and literature, but that isn't what I do at all. What I teach is school, and I win awards doing it. Teaching means many different things, but six lessons are common to schoolteaching from Harlem to Hollywood. You pay for these lessons in more ways than you can imagine, so you might as well know what they are:
Homeschool Scuttle: Legality of Homeschool
Do you ever wonder where journalists get their information?
Homeschool Scuttle
Do you ever wonder where journalists get their information?
Tips for Raising Daughters: Teach Her by Example to Be Herself
I have always loved swimming and have passed on this joy to my children. We went to our local swimming pool a few times a week when my children were small. I was the mom in the racing suit who was swimming laps, jumping off the diving board, or playing in the middle of my children.
Legacy Clubs for Mothers and Daughters Archive
Legacy Clubs for Mothers and Daughters™ is the answer for mothers searching for a conservative alternative to Girl Scouts who desire to pass on their legacy of conservative family values. If you are a mother who desires to create a strong, lasting bond with your daughter(s), then this is the organization for you.
Homeschooling Finance Archive
Homeschooling tends to be an expensive endeavor, and those families that choose to homeschool usually desire to reduce their expenses and increase their income in the best possible way to encourage their family bond. This section highlights several tools, resources, articles and suggestions for financial solvency.
Scouting Out Clavey River
Have you ever attempted to imagine what it must have been like for the settlers who rode the dusty trail in covered wagons, on horseback and on foot to start a new life in the west? Not many of us could in our wildest dreams imagine the hardship and trials those early pioneers endured in their travels across the wilderness. This trip was one of the scariest adventures I've ever dared to attempt.
History Channel Presents... Liberty's Kids!
Liberty's is a cartoon adventure that takes place during the American Revolution. This favorite show of many homeschooling younsters is entertaining and educational. Live the adventures of the American Revolution. Watch online for free... (Updated: July 6, 2008)
2008 Homeschool Legislation
As this years legislative session nears a close, homeschool advocates are readying the troops to fight what could be the most important battle we've had to face in the last few years.
Plan a Big Trees Campout
Beat the heat in the beautiful woods at Calaveras Big Trees State Park, northeast of Stockton in Calaveras County. Get outside and enjoy the fine summer weather, the kids will have fun swimming, rafting, birdwatching, hiking, cycling, or just singing around the camp fire. We've included many summer resources and event information for Calaveras and Tuolumne County. Explore the Mother Lode and all it has to offer.
Twain Harte Area Homeschoolers
Twain Harte Area Homeschoolers invites you to join us on a hike to Natural Bridges near Columbia, CA. We will Meet at 10:30 am, on Parrots Ferry Rd, off Highway 49, between Columbia and Murphys, CA at Natural Bridges Trailhead.
Local Homeschool Information Archives
Search the Local Homeschool Information Archives for additional homeschooling articles and information written with the family in mind. It's not all about books and curriculum. This is a collection of articles on random topics from typical homeschooling helps to issues loosely related to act of homeschooling.
Homeschool Information
Basic homeschooling information on how to get started on your homeschool journey. Links to legal information. Help for military families interested in the legal issues unique to military families.
SmartDraw: Homeschool Edition Review
SmartDraw includes plenty of fully customizable templates as well as blank forms that allow you to create unique forms, records, charts and graphs from scratch. If you can imagine it, you can create it...
Don't Let Gas Prices Cancel Carschooling Fun!
Yes, gas prices are high, but don't let them cancel your family's summer vacation plans. Carschooling author Diane Flynn Keith offers cost saving tips to help ease the pinch of rising gasoline prices...
Summer Reading Programs
Summer is a terrific time for students to read some good books and improve their reading and vocabulary skills, at the same time. Libraries educational centers and book stores make it easy to get your student involved and earn rewards as well.
Free Music Programs and Summer Music Camps
All children are musical, and primary caregivers play a crucial role in nurturing their child's musical development. Regardless of your child's musical ability, he or she can benefit from exposure to music in it's many forms. Best of all, it's fun!
Homeschool Scuttle: LocalHS is Back!
After an electrical fire and explosion over the weekend, LocalHS is back up and running. Thousands still off-line.
Homeschool Scuttle: Free Movie Library
Sullivan Entertainment offers free movie library
Are Polar Bears in Danger?
There has been a great deal of controversy regarding the listing of Polar Bears on the Endangered Species list. What do you think? Are polar bears endangered? Can they learn to live in our ever changing world?
Internship Opportunity | Mountain Bounty Farm
Do you know a student who just loves farming or gardening? This is an exciting opportunity to get close to nature, learn some new skills and get paid too! Mountain Bounty Farms has four openings in their summer internship program.
About Local Homeschool Support Groups (LocalHS)
LocalHS provides free advertising to homeschool support group leaders, to assist homeschoolers in making lasting connections. It's hard to do it all alone we all could use a friend and playmates for our children. You will find local Christian groups, area Unschoolers, Inclusive organizations, sports teams, music lessons, math tutors and more.
World Vision Experience: AIDS - Step into Africa
Virtual Africa exhibit brings the horrors of AIDS home through a free, interactive exhibit open to the public that takes its visitors on a journey into AIDS-affected communities in Africa, as seen through the eyes of four children.
Homeschool Mock Primary Election | Homeschool e-Store
Learn about the election process. Homeschoolers are invited to participate in the 2008 presidential election process by participating in our mock primary election, now through February 4th, 2008
Piano Classes Offered
Homeschool graduate, Amber Bradford offers piano classes to students in the Ceres, CA area.
Stamps in the Classroom
Stamps engage children, immediately capturing their interest. Topics on stamps are diverse and represent history, geography, culture, health, science, sports, literature, music, the visual arts, and more. One stamp can touch on several of these topics prompting children to explore and discover new information and ideas.
World's Tastiest Egg Rolls - Education in the kitchen
Most children love to help out in the kitchen. Making the World's Tastiest Egg Rolls can not only be fun but educational. A perfect dish to make with the 13-17 year old crowd. Cooking crosses all developmental domains (cognitive, physical, mental, social and emotional), touches all major educational subject areas and you get to eat many of the teaching materials!
Pomeberry Smoothie - Education in the kitchen
The 9-12 year old range is the perfect time to start your young cook out right. Children this age are anxious to create new things and experiment in the kitchen. This Pomeberry Smoothie is a treat they will enjoy and have fun creating. Your child might even decide to change the recipe around a little. Why not? The worst that can happen is you end up adding a little more sugar to make it go down better.
American Apple Crisp - Education in the kitchen
Children just love apples and why not? They are yummy to eat and large enough for little hands, which makes American Apple Crisp perfect for your 5-8 year old. Cooking is more than about eating. It's more than just satisfying a basic need. Cooking is the ultimate way to educate your child.
Chicken Quesadillas - Education in the Kitchen
It's never too early to begin teaching a child to cook, after all, everyone has to eat. Your preschooler will enjoy making these Chicken Quesadillas. He or she will learn about the importance of washing their hands, learn a few new words and have fun with mom or dad too. What could be more perfect? Cooking crosses all developmental domains (cognitive, physical, mental, social and emotional), touches all major educational subject areas and you get to eat many of the teaching materials!
Education in the Kitchen
Cooking is more than about eating. It's more than just satisfying a basic need. Cooking is the ultimate way to educate your child. Cooking crosses all developmental domains (cognitive, physical, mental, social and emotional), touches all major educational subject areas and you get to eat many of the teaching materials!
Homeschooling Workshops and Classes
Homeschooling has never been a one-size-fits-all endeavor, as such there are almost as many homeschooling methods as their are homeschoolers. Here we present a few for your consideration.
Science and Engineering Class Offered
A fantastic new Science and Engineering Class is forming in Claremont, CA designed especially for homeschoolers! The class will be taught by David Holt, an experienced science teacher.
Teaching Writing: A Workshop for Parents
With WriteShop, Homeschooling parents and co-op teachers alike will learn how to teach writing to their junior high and high school students. The seminar will help parents
Step-by-Step Tool Bar Instructions
If you are having trouble navigating our search bar, you are not alone. My husband assured me when he implemented them that they were obvious and would be easy for people to understand. Well, I guess I'm not the only one who had trouble with them. I've received feedback from others who can't quite seem to navigate our nifty little search tool. For you these instructions are long over due and for that I apologize.
Top Rated Homeschool Books
Here you will find the most popular homeschooling books chosen for their outstanding features and editorial excellence. From fun, creative educational activities to help for new homeschooling parents -- find everything you need to successfully homeschool your children.
Abstinence Conference | Modesto, CA
Homeschooling mother of four and semi-retired pediatrician Marcella Murphy to present abstinence classes to homeschool community. - Event Cancelled
Teach Your Child About Money
As adults many of us still don't have a handle on our finances. Give your children a head-start. Teach them about money management, creating a budget, investment, saving and more. Who knows you might even learn a thing or two along the way.
A Multimedia approach to Teaching History
Children are often resistant to using the standard textbook approach to learning about historical characters. Here you will find selections of books and DVD's to assist you in taking a multimedia to teaching history.
LocalHS Homeschool Book Store
Choose from the best selling homeschool books to help you get started homeschooling from preschool through high school, and new books recommended by Local Homeschool Support Groups website.
Natural Bridges Hike and Scavenger Hunt
Join us on a nature walk to Natural Bridges in Vallecito, CA. Experience the wonders of nature and all it has to off with homeschooling friends.
Fall Fun: Scavenger Hunt
Fun activity for children, which can be adapted for all ages. A scavenger hunt is a great way to encourage children to observe items they would normally not pay any attention to in the course of their normal activities. It's a terrific way to introduce your children to various science activities and get them outside, enjoying the fresh air, at the same time.
Homeschool Scuttle: Happy Mother's Day
Mother's Day is tomorrow but I've already received all my gifts. Shame on me!
Homeschool Scuttle: Tell Me Again!
My eleven year old is; well, he's eleven and he acts like the typical eleven-year-old. I remind him each day to brush his teeth and he manages to act like it's the first time he's ever been asked to brush them in his life.
Homeschool Scuttle: Safe at Home
Top 10 Reasons To Homeschool Another Chapter
Homeschool Scuttle: Get a Real Education
Los Angeles Times writers seemingly communist, ill-informed hacks.
Homeschool Scuttle: The Unschooling Method
In response to the San Francisco Chronicle editorial 'Rule of Education'.
Homeschool Scuttle: CA Stone Age
Homeschooling legal in Michigan since 1993
Homeschool Scuttle: News in the News
Homeschooling is legal and everyone now knows it.
Homeschool Scuttle: No Place To Go
Runaway Teens Request For Assistance Triggers Investigation
Homeschool Scuttle: CA Legal Drama
Did a California Appellate Court Render Homeschooling Illegal in California?
Homeschool Scuttle: HEM Turns 25!
Home Education Magazine Celebrates 25 Years!
Homeschool Scuttle: Television Alternatives
In case you missed it, there has been a lively discussion on the Unpreschool list on the merits and pitfalls of television viewing for young children. Author and lecturer Diane Flynn Keith provided a terrific list of activities to take the place of television viewing...
Homeschool Scuttle: Mail Bag Flame
Clueless in New Jersey
Homeschooling Product Reviews and Information
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Premade Doll Cradles and Doll Cradle Kits
When you think of a little girl playing mommy with her babies, you think of doll cradles too. Sweet, simple, wholesome play that helps little girls learn how to be a mommy someday.
Nature's Playground: Activities, Crafts, and Games to Encourage Children to Get Outdoors
Introducing children to the excitement of the natural world, this guide to outdoor adventure provides hours of creative, safe, and fun activities. Children will learn how to build a den from branches, make twig boats to sail across a pond, and voyage through the backyard to find tiny insects and creatures.
Homeschool Scuttle: You Gotta Go to School
Schoolhouse Rock Parody
Homeschool Scuttle: Eleven and Driving
A Scandia birthday celebration to remember.
Homeschool Scuttle: California Math
Struggling to teach your kids elementary math skills like place values, division and fractions? Does your daily math time resemble an hour long argument between bitter adversaries rather that an enjoyable lesson between parent and child? Had one of those moments when you think the only way they'll learn math is by putting them in school? You aren't alone!
Homeschool Scuttle: NEA Windbags
The windbags at the NEA are at it again; they have issued their annual statement of condemnation against homeschooling. Was it merely coincidence that it was included in their list of resolutions, just below their mandate for humane treatment of classroom animals?
Homeschool Scuttle: There Is Hope
Making memories on Highway 88 and Hope Valley
Homeschool Scuttle: Calling All Teachers
Free Laminating at Office Max
Homeschool Scuttle: Concert Band Forming
Concert Band Forming in Lake County, Florida area.
Homeschool Scuttle: A Homeschool Moment
During a brief discourse held with my child early today we had the opportunity to discuss global warming. Since then I've gained a new perspective on the subject.
Homeschool Scuttle: Compulsive Behavior
As a parent I often find it frustrating when my own child displays his compulsive behavior. Our home is filled with it.
Homeschool Scuttle 2007
The Homeschool Scuttle 2007 Archive
Homeschool Scuttle: Raising and Educating Teens
Way back when the yungins were still home, I would often check out the teenagers in our church. When I found a child that emulated the traits I wanted for my own children, I would corner the parents and ask them for their secret. It seems too ridiculous, recalling it now. It was as if I were asking for a cake recipe. Like any parent could give instructions for raising a successful child (what is the meaning of success?) in ten minutes or less.
Homeschool Scuttle: Charter Increase
Number of Charter Schools Increases 11 Percent Nationwide During 2006-2007 School Year More Than Half of All Charter Students Are Low-Income or Minority, According to New Survey
Homeschool Scuttle: CA: Penalty of Law
In lock-step with the California Teachers Association, and marching to the beat of the do-it-for-the-global-economy-and-new-world-order drum, California Assembly Member Gene Mullin (Democrat, South San Francisco) introduced the heinous Assembly Bill 1236: Kindergarten Readiness Act that will be heard on Wednesday, April 25th before the Assembly Committee on Education.
Homeschool Scuttle: Are you an UnPreschooler?
Even though I don't actually have a preschooler in the house at this point in my life, I have very fond memories of those years that really weren't that long ago. This past year it has felt like my son is an alien and we can't manage a coherent conversation. We discuss two separate topics together, neither understanding what the other is saying.
Homeschool Scuttle: CA: 2007-08 Legislation
A brief look at pending California legislation which you should be aware of...
Valentine's Day Reading List
Valentine's Day is a terrific time to get into a good book. From funny, to fuzzy, whether you love Valentine's Day or hate it, you'll find the perfect book for the season. Check out these selections:
Homeschool Scuttle: Pringles Challenge
Enter the 2007 Pringles Homeschool Challenge
Homeschool Scuttle: Learning to Write
I've been a little concerned over my son's writing skills lately. So, what do I do? I revert back to my typical schooled methods (employed by public schools across the nation) and purchased a Writing workbook from Mc Graw Hill.
Homeschool Scuttle: What's Cooking?
There is just something about the winter months that gets me in the cooking mood. I got up this morning and made up my mind that today was going to be a Chicken Paprikash day.
Homeschool Scuttle: Dr. Potato Head
I always liked to think of myself as a jack-of-all trades - yet master of none. Keeping that lofty goal in mind, I never thought I would be an expert in any particular field. So you have to imagine my surprise upon learning that, according to Dr. Phil, I am an expert at growing vegetables!
Homeschool Scuttle: The Great Unschool Attack
They say timing is everything and the Dr. Phil Show is determined to get the most bang for their buck.
Homeschool Scuttle: Thanksgiving and Family
Thanksgiving is closing in fast and the anxiety over the prospect of spending hours on end, with family members we may not have seen in months, hangs heavy in the air for many a homeschooling mom or dad.
Homeschool Scuttle: Have you attended a Dr. Phil Show?
Joni Cox contacted me and asked me about how to reach others who had attended the taping of The Great School Debate on the Dr. Phil Show.
Homeschool Scuttle: School Bully - School Principal
You might think that the school bully is the tough kid on the playground or on the school bus. But in this case you would be dead wrong. The school bully is the school principal , Olivia McCarthy.
Homeschool Scuttle: MI: Vote for Homeschool Freedom
Maureen Whittmann reports that Michigan Candidate, Mark Meadows has vowed to restrict homeschooling for all Michigan homeschoolers.
Homeschool Scuttle: Single Mom Struggles
I have a 13-year-old daughter who has struggled with school since the time she started and now as she gets older, it is getting worse for her.
Homeschool Scuttle 2003
The Homeschool Scuttle 2003 Archive
Homeschool Scuttle: The 'Debate' Continues
Last month I found a link to the Dr. Phil Show web page asking for opinions about homeschooling. I wrote down some comments, and sent off my thoughts regarding the topic. I had no doubt that my words would disappear in a flood of other opinions, and since I thought the show was filmed in Chicago, I didn't give the matter a second thought.
Homeschool Scuttle: Jerry Springer Lite
"The Great School Debate" Episode Turns into the Great School Debacle Local Event Held to Demystify the Subject of Homeschooling
Homeschool Scuttle 2006
The Homeschool Scuttle 2006 Archive
Homeschool Scuttle: The Great School Debate
The Dr. Phil Show, "The Great School Debate" (Proposed Air Date: October 27, 2006, rescheduled to air Friday, November 24, 2006 ) begins with a couple that calls themselves "Radical Unschoolers."
Homeschool Scuttle: Pink Floyd - 'The Wall'
Holly (not her real name) responds to this post on our homeschool list, found here in part...
Homeschool Scuttle: Homeschoolers In Action
Kristen and Amy, high school chums, are homeschooling their children together.
Astronaut Buzz Aldrin Authenticates Inspiring History Book
Seattle author and photographer Michael Class has used digital composite photography to place his twelve year-old son, Anthony, in the cockpit of the Spirit of St. Louis with Charles Lindbergh, in the laboratory with Thomas Edison, on the baseball diamond with Lou Gehrig, and on the moon with Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin.
Remote Listings Tools
Use the filters and selections below to generate a script you can use from your own website to display Local Homeschool Support Group Listings. Copy and paste the code below into the body of the HTML pages of any website on which you would like to to display your selection of Local Homeschool Support Groups.
Christmas Gift Giving
One mother has found a way to make Christmas not only fun for her family but also create memories that will last a life-time.
California Master Plan for Education 2002
California Master Plan for Education 2002 - Document Index
2006 Homeschool Legislation Alerts
As this years legislative session nears a close, homeschool advocates are readying the troops to fight what could be the most important battle we've had to face in the last few years.
Abuse and Neglect
Every state has abuse and neglect statutes, however, targeting homeschoolers for additional legislation due to perceptions of a potential link between homeschooling and abuse and neglect may be discriminatory.
Mind The Gap: Watching For 'Holes' in Your Child's Education
Can following a curriculum guarantee there won't be gaps in a child's schooling? Is a transcript from a public charter school proof that there aren't any cracks in a child's education? No! And if you think so, you're delusional! No one has a complete education. No one ever has, and no one ever will.
Thanksgiving Theme Learning Ideas and Resources
Thanksgiving resources to assist adults and students, both young and old, in expanding their knowledge of the history and traditions of the Thanksgiving holiday. These resources are a starting point and by no means should they be considered exhaustive.
How to Choose a Local Homeschool Support Group
There are two basic types of homeschool support groups: general, and those with a specific focus. Within these, there are myriad variations. Understanding the variety can help you find the one that is right for you.
Celebrating Earth Day
Did you know that Earth Day is the second largest non-religious holiday celebrated in 175 countries around the world?
Academic Motivation
Many homeschoolers who follow the traditional school schedule are now getting back into the swing of another school year. This often begins to bring difficulties to the surface...Research indicates that children (especially boys) don't typically acquire the ability to think abstractly until around the age 10-12 years, so many parents are asking how can we motivate them to learn?
Building an Enthusiastic Reader From Scratch
Thousands of books have been written on the subject of reading, specifically how to teach a child to read. You can spend hundreds of dollars on reading materials or you could simply use what you know of your child and just do it. Better still; let your son or daughter figure it out on his or her own.
First Day of School - Homeschooling Style
On Monday, August 28th, the school buses pulled away from the curb, and somewhere in Rancho Cucamonga, a public school started, and Nicki was here at home - Our Homeschooling Adventure had begun for real!
Homeschooling, Can I Do It?
Many parents would like to homeschool their children but are afraid they don't have the training or ability to be their children's teacher. This is certainly understandable, because most parents never had any formal training to be a teacher. However, most parents don't have to worry about this issue.
Starting Out: Decompression Time
Homeschooler's tell about their real life homeschooling experiences. Have a look into the life of a homeschooled student. You will be surprised to find they are just like you and me. Read their stories now. Find out why homeschooling is so successful
New to Homeschooling?
New to Homeschooling? Learn the ins and outs with the guidance of seasoned homeschool mom, Annette M. Hall
Help! My First Grader Wants To Go To School!
Homeschoolers come in all sizes, shapes and persuasions. Most of us don't homeschool because we think we know it all. We choose to spend more time with our children, in hopes of giving them the best start in life as possible. Self doubt comes with the territory. After all, our children didn't come with manuals any more than yours did.
Homeschooling Methods Archive
Homeschooling has never been a one-size-fits-all endeavor, as such there are almost as many homeschooling methods as their are homeschoolers. Here we present a few for your consideration.
Method Maze: To School or Not To School
Whether you are new to the homeschool scene or you are an old hat, taking complete charge of your child's schooling can seem like a daunting task. If you think ordering a Latte from your local Starbucks is a challenge, you might not be quite ready to homeschool.
Voter Preparation - November Election
As November elections approach, homeschoolers should try to find out the positions of the candidates on the issues of most importance to parents. NHELD has compiled a short list of suggested questions.
Teaching with Games
Excellence in Education to Host Teaching with Games Workshop - November 19, 2005
Browse by State
Select a state by clicking on the area shape, which represents the location of your search. Floating over the state will provide you with a description of the link.
California Ferret Phobia - AB 647
Homeschool families are known to be a little strange, just ask anyone. We often keep strange hours, we are generally more informed than the general public on social issues and we keep strange pets.
Ten Signs that You Need to Find a Different Kind of Education for Your Child
Because our public school system has now considerably deteriorated, many parents, teachers, and individuals have taken it upon themselves to create public and private alternatives to that traditional system which is definitely failing.
Legislative News and Views
Legislative news, commentary and analysis. Links to homeschooling, charter school and public legislative issues. Keep informed on legislative news, form your own opinions once you have the facts.
2005 Homeschool Legislation
With many state legislatures beginning their 2005 session, homeschooling is once again a hot button issue. Numerous states have targeted homeschoolers by introducing legislation which would restrict homeschooling freedom.
State Legislative Websites
We have provided a list of legislative websites for each state. Our hope is to make it easier for you to find and communicate with your state legislators.
Starting Out: School-at-Home
Jane tells about her experience when she first started homeschooling her children. After years of fighting with the school system, and a parent/teacher conference where my son's homeroom teacher announced that he would fail 5th grade because he kept forgetting his pencil we decided that enough was enough.
Starting Out: Deschooling
Homeschooler's tell about their real life homeschooling experiences. Have a look into the life of a homeschooled student. You will be surprised to find they are just like you and me. Read their stories now. Find out why homeschooling is so successful
Starting Out: Video Addiction
Help! My son only wants to play video games. He is trying to make contact with some friends but plans keep falling through so most of the time he is just home watching TV or playing videos. What do I do?
The Road to Homeschool
Contemplating a child's future is daunting and having to accept complete responsibility for that child's future can be alarming. After much anxiety and many tears, we finally decided that our children needed our help and that we couldn't possibly fail them worse than the public school system they were currently attending.
How to Communicate so Your Legislator Will Listen
Find out where he or she stands on your issue by making inquiries at local group meetings and organizations. Read the local newspapers. What do they say about your legislator? Visit his or her website and sign up for his or her newsletter.
California Legislator Directory
This searchable database contains links to each legislators website, complete contact information, with e-mail address and district office addresses. We've provided photographs for easy identification and those elusive fax numbers.
Roy Hanson's Help Tree Legislative Alert
Summary of Concerns - SB 550 will lower the compulsory school age from 6 to 5. The 7/16/04 draft language for SB 550 says, It is the intent of the Legislature that each person aged 5 years not exempted under this chapter or Chapter 3... shall be subject to compulsory full-time education.
Homeschoolers Testify Before State SARB
California's State SARB met May 9th in Sacramento, where a draft version of the new SARB handbook was released. Several items were on the agenda for discussion, but the hot topic of the day was the Private School Affidavit process, which came under fire by several board members.
Homeschool Legal Issues
In recent days, there have been a rash of articles in the news proclaiming that a California court declared that parents no longer have a right to homeschool in that state. We encourage everyone to go behind the headlines and to read for themselves the entire decision of the court in question.
NHELD addresses In Re Rachael L. | California Appellate Court Ruling
In this case, a California court did offer an opinion about the rights of a family to homeschool. In this indepth article, Attorney Deborah Stevenson takes us step-by-step through the court process, the ruling and what it means to homeschoolers.
Homeschools Determined to be Educational Institutions
In November 2004, homeschoolers nationwide lost more freedom, as the United States Court of Appeals deemed homeschools were schools and approved educational institutions. Sadly, HSLDA is shaping a federal definition of homeschooling, a definition that clearly is going to affect us all.
Delaine Eastin Seeks Regulation of Homeschoolers
Delaine Eastin, in her new roll as Executive Director of the National Institute for School Leadership in Washington, D.C. is up to her old tricks, stirring up animosity between the homeschool community and public school adherents.
Equivalent Instruction
Did you know? Many states use the term 'equivalent instruction' in their education statutes especially as it applies to homeschooling.
How to Get the Word Out?
No comfortable homeschooling support group in your area? Take heart! You can start one very easily, on a shoestring. Learn how to get the word out!
Trained Not to Trust Ourselves
Even in the homeschool community many families are paralyzed with fear of contradicting the experts who have written books and speak at conventions. There are many wonderful experts out there who are doing a good job helping and encouraging people in parenting, homeschooling, healing, childbirth and more. Sadly, though, our society has made people feel helpless in the face of the experts.
How To Start Your Own Local Homeschool Support Group
It can often take a great deal of time and effort to hook up with a local homeschooling support group in your area. Trust me I sympathize. Our family lives in the California Sierra Mountains, in an area seemingly dominated by church homeschool groups and charter schools. Independent homeschool groups can really start to feel like social outcasts in a climate such as this. So, what do you do? Start your own group.
Tools for the Self-Taught Technology Student
Providing children with access to technology prepares young ones for advanced educational opportunities and gives young people an edge in our computer driven society. Technology plays an important part of our world. Find out how you can help garner enthusiasm in your youngster.
VA Homeschoolers Salvage Yahoo! Disaster
Virginia's eclectic homeschoolers are the greatest! After Yahoogroups vaporized a favorite statewide discussion list, the homeschoolers rallied and recreated a new e-list with a membership of over 325 in three weeks.
Have Fun with The Summer Moon Illusion
When my kids were little, I looked at any unusual, natural occurrence as an opportunity to have fun learning. This week Mother Nature offers a summer moon event that provides a wonderful way for kids to learn more about the moon -- or just have fun observing it and doing activities themed around it.
Always Be Prepared: Winter Emergency Survival Tips
Many of us live in areas prone to bad weather. Snow can be great fun to play in but can create special hazards when we must drive in it. With a little forethought and preparation, we can brave the winter snow with confidence.
Homeschooling the Numbers
We've grown used to seeing homeschool stories on the nightly news. Ratings must be good for homeschooling stories judging from the list of advertisers supporting the recent CBS story, which outraged many homeschooling families.
Stafford County woman is 'TheHomeSchoolMom'
Mary Ann Kelley, creator of TheHomeSchoolMom.com started homeschooling five years ago. Kelley doesn't consider herself an authority on homeschooling. But she does know a thing or two about finding resources online. She's used a lot of them to develop a curriculum for her own children...
Universal Preschool Site Launch
Diane Keith invites you to join her online. It is a personal New Year's goal of mine to provide a viable forum for offering a dissenting opinion on the topic of government funded and/or mandatory Universal Preschool.
Socialization - Isolation, Incompetence and Ignorance
It is glaringly obvious that the author of 'Home is no place for school' is completely ignorant on the subject of homeschooling, not to mention our form of government. Luckily for Dennis L. Evans, the first amendment does protect his right to arrogantly flaunt his lack of understanding of both. As such it is our right, nay our duty, to exploit and expose that ignorance.
Socialization: Rules vs. Respect
Three weeks ago, I quoted Fred Frankel, Ph.D., on the rules of etiquette for joining other kids at play. Dr. Frankel contends that socially well-adjusted adults have mastered the intricacies of such social codes, from an early age. His book is chock-full of tables entitled 'The Rules of Being a Good Sport,' 'The Rules of Being a Good Host,' etc., etc. The acquisition of such social codes is what many people have in mind when they ask, 'What about socialization?'
Education in the News
Education in the news. Links to homeschooling, charter school and public education issues. Keep informed on educational news, form your own opinions once you have the facts.
Maya Mathematics
I have prepared a booklet on how to do calculations with Mayan numbers, including the square-root procedure that children learn in school. The booklet includes addition and subtraction tables for Mayan numbers.
Kids Room -- Organization
We are talking about a whirlwind of toys strew around the room with no rhyme or reason. When friendly requests of organization go unheeded, things can get a little tense...
Learning to Read - What are the basic steps?
Most parents are thrilled when their child starts learning to read. But many parents are surprised to learn that despite family background, learning to read is often not an automatic or trouble-free process.
Medical Emergencies
Injuries, accidents and illness happen and often times they can't be avoided but parents can have the upper hand by preparing ahead of time for these medical emergencies. Pete and Maribel Hernandez have provided a list of emergencies to assist parents in anticipation of the unexpected, helping to save not only precious time but also money on costly and often unnecessary professional medical care.
The Reiner Initiative and Preschool Pressures
What might be the problem with universal preschool? Where can conscientious parents and educators find common ground? In this interview, Diane Flynn Keith shares her views with Jo Scott-Coe about California's 'First Five' advertisements, Rob Reiner, standardized testing, John Taylor Gatto, Bill Gates, Oprah--and much more.
Preschool Inhibits Children's Social Development
Stanford University and the University of California (UC) at Berkeley published a report of a research study dated November 4, 2005, on the effects of preschool on children's development. This study compares the math skills, reading, and social development of young children who attended preschool to that of young children who remained at home prior to kindergarten.
Life after Cable Television
A little over a year ago we shut-off the cable. The first few months without service were a breeze. The longer we were without cable though the harder it got. We began buying movies again and borrowing DVDs from the Twain Harte Public Library.
Health Starts at Home: Healthy Lifestyle Choices - Eat Right For Your Type
Not only does our family choose to be different by homeschooling, we tend to do other things different as well. For instance most of my extended family will run to the doctor at the first signs of illness.
Online Learning and Safety
With the internet so widely available, many parents are combining education and the internet to enhance their child's educational endeavors. This dynamic duo has opened doors, never before possible.
Homeschooling and Socialism: The Worst Possible Mix
Homeschooling and Socialism: The Worst Possible Mix - We don't recognize socialism in our own country because we are so much in the habit of associating socialism with repressive totalitarian regimes. In America, we entice families into our social programs with slick salesmanship, sweet-talk, hand-wringing, hand-holding, and bribes.
Teaching Health at Home
On a recent visit to our Grandparents house, we were amazed to find them doing extraordinarily well. Grandma, even after numerous hip surgeries, was getting around, like she was a young spring chicken. She was eager to share her secret with us...
Charter Take-Over
Is Charter Schooling Really Homeschooling? As the charter school movement continues to grow, what have been the affects on the homeschooling community at-large?
Adolf Hitler, Dr. Zhivago, Columbine and CBS News
A pointed response to CBS' anti-homeschooling aricles of mid-October 2003
Universities And Athlete's Foot - 'Bout Equal
Today we'll destroy the universities and drive professors into the streets to starve, perhaps pulling themselves by their fingernails and feeding on remnants of discarded hamburgers. This will reform western civilization. (This is a full-service column. It doesn't mess with the petty stuff.)
Have You Heard?
Contrary to the conjecture of home school critics, I generally find homeschooled children to be remarkably bright, polite, and humble (this might have the appearance of social deprivation in a society that promotes self and lack of discipline).
Back-to-School? Maybe Not
The dog days of summer are here, soon fall will be upon us and yet another school year has begun. I can still remember sitting in class staring out the window, longing to get outdoors and explore.
Education Research
An ongoing current archive of links and resources highlighting news concerning research in regards to education and family values.
Military Homeschooling FAQ
The following Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) are designed to assist students, parents, teachers, coaches, principals, school administrators, and others in understanding the implementation of the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) Policy Memorandum on Home Schooling dated November 6, 2002.
Congress Reprimands CBS
As members of Congress who either home school our own children or support the right of parents to homeschool, we were deeply offended by the recent Eye on America segment dealing with homeschooling.
Homeschooling - A Family Affair
CBS reports that homeschoolers have something to hide and are potential child abusers who are hiding out. The truth could lie in a totally different direction.
Military Homeschooling Information
Department of Defense Homeschooling Policy
California Resources
California support groups, both private and public school independent study programs, and homeschool programs listed by city.
Homeschool Your Teen to Financial Success
Can you imagine a scenario where your child is in their mid-thirties and still buried in student debt? This is a reality for many parents. By including financial literacy in your home school curriculum you will have an instrumental role in providing a brighter future for your child.
Free Subtraction Worksheets from LocalHS
Create your own subtraction practice worksheets, generate timed tests and practice sets. This worksheet generator creates worksheets with large numbers - even negative numbers. Instant answer sheets provided for each quiz with a single click.
Free Addition Worksheets from LocalHS
Create your own addition practice worksheets, generate timed tests and practice sets. This worksheet generator creates worksheets with large numbers - even negative numbers. Instant answer sheets provided for each quiz with a single click.
Free Math Worksheet Generator
Free Math Worksheets from LocalHS! These worksheet generators allow you to choose the parameters and create worksheets on the fly. Why struggle to figure out the answers to the worksheets you've created? We've made it simple. Just one click and the answers are provided.
Teaching Teens How to Gain Financial Freedom
There is nothing worse than seeing your child in their mid-twenties, toiling in more debt than you ever did at that age. By taking a proactive approach as a parent, you can have an instrumental role in providing a brighter future for your child. Pass Vince Shorb's financial tips onto your children, and show them how to apply them to their everyday life, they will not only be able to start building a financially secure future, but escape the shackles of life long debt.
Goodbye Marvin Gardens - Hello Golden Gate Bridge
Hasbro finally invented a Monopoly game that can be played in just a couple of hours. The game is called 'Monopoly Electronic Banking' edition and I personally find the game quite enjoyable.
LocalHS Freebies
Check out our Freebies, whether you are looking for art classes, contests open to homeschoolers or just plain fun, look no further the list just keeps growing and growing.
Saving & Investing Wisely - Part II: Teaching Your Adult Children To Save
This is the second in a series of articles designed to help you with teaching your children and/or grandchildren to save and invest wisely. This week, I will discuss how to help your ADULT children or grandchildren become better savers. You might not think it is necessary (or even your business) to teach your adult children to become better savers. Yet we face a savings crisis in America as I will point out below. And as I stressed in Part I of this series, I believe it is our obligation as parents to teach our kids to save and invest wisely.
Teaching Kids To Save & Invest Wisely
Financial expert Gary D. Halbert shares tips for teaching your children or grandchildren -- whether minors or adults - the importance of saving money and investing money wisely. It doesn't matter if your kids or grandkids are adolescents in their early teens or if they are grown adults of any age. We are never too old or too well off to save and invest wisely.
Free Fun Homeschool FunDays and Stuff
Free Family Film Festival, Homeschool Day at Angel Stadium!, Wacky Science, and other Free (or low-cost) Homeschool Days are just a few of the exciting family friendly events, you can attend and many of them are free. If you are looking for fun, inexpensive field trips that both educate and entertain, check it out!
Free and Inexpensive Art Programs for Homeschoolers
Create, perform and experience the arts! Check out these Free and Inexpensive Art Programs for Homeschoolers
Contests for Homeschoolers
Contests for Homeschoolers - Get the kids involved in a contest. What a terrific way to learn.
Allow Card Prepaid MasterCard Designed Exclusively for Teens
In response to a growing epidemic of financial illiteracy among the nation's youth, Allow Card of America, Inc., today unveiled the Allow Card, a prepaid MasterCard Card issued by MetaBank created specifically for kids and teens.
Visit the Exploratorium in San Francisco, CA
No child living in the area should reach the age of ten, without having visited the Exploratorium and taking advantage of all it has to offer both children and adults alike.
Advertise with LocalHS.com
We understand that you wish to reach as many homeschoolers in your area as possible, it is with this in mind that we have made a way for you to be included and get the visibility you desire.As an advertiser on LocalHS, your listing will appear within search results for the area(s) you select.
Products Sponsored by LocalHS
LocalHS is dedicated to providing quality resources for homeschoolers of all types. We encourage you to check out the following books and resources.
The Welfare State: No Mercy For the Middle Class
In 'The Welfare State: No Mercy For the Middle Class,' author John McKay tells hardworking, middle-class Americans how strangling government taxes and regulations take away their freedom and chance for a decent, prosperous future for themselves and their children. He also shows why these taxes and regulations are immoral and un-American.
Public Schools, Public Menace
Parents --- Are you disgusted with the third-rate education your child is getting in public school? Great News --- You can now afford to give your child a quality, private-school education!
These Amazing Bats
You could say a bat is handy to have hanging around. After all, bats are great for the ecosystem. Most eat tons and tons of harmful insects. Some species help reseed rainforests, while others pollinate plants.
Exploring the Local Terrain
Come along with us on our 2005 hiking trip to Natural Bridges near Columbia, CA. Having been told we'd find a swimming hole at the bottom of our trek, doubt began to crowd my mind, as we meandered along a dried up creek bed. Where was all the water? Did we make a huge mistake? Please let their be water here somewhere!
Homeschooling Field Trips Archive
Adventure and homeschooling go hand in hand. Come along with our family as we explore the great outdoors. You might just be inspired to get out and explore a few field trips on your own.
Exploring Natural Bridges Habitat
Our 2006 Trip to Natural Bridges: Summer is here and so is the hot weather. Kicking off the season right, we made the excursion to Vallecito, CA and traipsed down the trail to Natural Bridges. You may recall we made the same trip last year. Oh, what a difference a year can make. Don't miss our photo gallery. This year the camera actually worked.
Stinging Nettle Teaches Homeschooled Teenager Why People Like to Shop
Young Annika learns a love for nature and gains insight into a womans natural need to play the part of the gatherer, with stinging nettles experience.
Google AdSense Secrets - Making More Money with Google AdSense
What Google Never Told You About Making Money with AdSense, the definitive manual for increasing your AdSense income exponentially. Double, triple or quadruple your AdSense income with the proven and tested tips and tricks in this eBook.
Local Homeschool Affiliates
Check out our new designs!
Support Group Submission Form
Submit your local homeschool support group for inclusion in our every expanding database. Make sure local homeschoolers can find your group. Provide as much or as little detail as you wish.
2004 Archives
Abuse and Neglect
Every state has abuse and neglect statutes, however, targeting homeschoolers for additional legislation due to perceptions of a potential link between homeschooling and abuse and neglect may be discriminatory.
Homeschool Non-Discrimination Act (HONDA)
Homeschoolers oppose HSLDA's efforts. Each time homeschoolers are included in any federal law, the federal government has usurped its authority under the Constitution and is effectively declaring that it can regulate homeschooling.
Homeschoolers Oppose HSLDA's Efforts
Homeschoolers oppose HSLDA's efforts. Each time homeschoolers are included in any federal law, the federal government has usurped its authority under the Constitution and is effectively declaring that it can regulate homeschooling.
The Federalization of Homeschooling
Did you know? There are nine pieces of federal legislation currently being considered by Congress which include the words home school in them, or refer to existing legislation that includes home school.
