Preparing
for
the
School Year
The new school year is quickly approaching! How exciting!! This is the time for preparing for the months ahead. Many may start by setting goals, organizing systems, planning lessons, or gathering new resources. This month, we will be sharing resources and strategies to support your preparation for the upcoming year. We understand the amount of time and effort we invest in now will be a remarkable reward later as our children deserves an exciting, hands-on, and engaging learning experience.
What is God’s Vision for your School Year:
PRAYER:
In the word it says that God formed each child in their mother’s womb. Consequently, God knows each child and what they need to grow and become all that He has called them to be. So in order to plan a successful
school year it is our responsibility to go to the One who knows what our children need to be prepared for the future and be ready to be world changers. As you plan and get ready for the new school year, I encourage you take time to pray and seek God to gain wisdom and guidance.
RESOURCES:
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For information regarding homeschool laws in Colorado, testing information, high school resources, and more check out CHEC’s site.
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For ideas on how to schedule and plan visit the Good and Beautiful Homeschool Planning page.
PREPARATION:
Curriculum suggestions-
From CHEC
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Christian Light Math uses a spiral math learning system that meets each students’ learning style and needs. Download free lessons to see if this is something that you would want to incorporate in your school year.
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BJU Press Homeschool Science helps students interpret and apply scientific through the lens of a biblical worldview. BJU has curriculum for all subject areas for grades 1st through 12th. They not only have workbooks but online videos.
For more suggestions in different subjects and grade levels visit CHEC’s Recommended Homeschool Resource page.
Reading list suggestion-
If you are looking for books to read through the school year here is a FREE book list that offers a wide range of wholesome level books for grades 1st- 12th. The list was created by 25 homeschooling mothers over the course of a year’s time through discussions of criteria to use in choosing a good book. They separate the levels by beginning readers in 1st through 3rd grades, fluent readers in 4th through 6th grades, maturing readers in 7th through 9th grades, and college-bound readers in 10th through 12th grades. In each level you will find books separated into categories such as poetry, holidays, literature, and advanced literature.
ADVENTURES:
If you find yourself constantly looking for new places to go on field trips, True North Home School provides a plethora of field trip opportunities at a low price, resources, holiday family events, and more. For more information visit True North.
PLANNING:
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As a family, determine the priorities and values that should be addressed throughout the school year.
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Organize the structure and establish routines for the week.
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Incorporate time for multisensory lessons and student led learning opportunities based on students' strengths and interest.
SUPPORT:
Collaboration with others is often a great way to find resources and gain fresh new ideas.
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CHEC provides a list of Colorado Homeschool Groups, Co-ops, Support, and more. To find a support group near you visit CHEC homeschool groups.
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True North Homeschool also provides a list of support groups categorized by Facebook platforms, activity based, and front range communities.
Ways for Students to get Prepared for the School Year:
Click on any of the images to begin your school craft.
OUTDOOR MOVIES
On August 8th enjoy a family movie night, under the stars, on a huge 24-foot movie screen. Bring your chairs and blankets to watch Hopper. Concessions will be available for an additional charge.
WHEN: SATURDAY, AUGUST 8th
TIME: Seating opens one hour before Dusk
LOCATION: FNB Bank Amphitheater
PRICE: FREE admission
FAMILY NATURE ADVENTURE DAY
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Join Bluff Lake volunteer Ann Schwab for an overview of nature journaling basics followed by a short guided walk with time for hands-on practice. Walks leave from the building at 10:30 am, 11:30 am and 12:30 pm. All supplies provided.
WHEN: SATURDAY, AUGUST 22nd
AGE(S): All Ages
TIME: 10:30, 11:30, and 12:30
LOCATION: 11255 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Denver, CO, United States, Colorado 80238
PRICE: FREE admission
Celebrate Colorado’s 150th birthday with a family trip to Boulder for the state fair. Where the family can enjoy rides, food, the Freedom Truck Museum, concerts, demolition derbys, and monster truck shows.
WHEN: August 28th- September 7th
AGES: ALL AGES
TIME:
Monday – Thursday: 3 p.m. – 11 p.m.
Friday – Sunday: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Labor Day: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
LOCATION: Colorado State Fairgrounds at 1001 Beulah Avenue, Pueblo, CO
PRICE: Visit Buy Tickets
Homeschool parents, we would love to hear any questions, ideas, or suggestions regarding homeschooling. Do you have any questions regarding curriculum or any suggested materials to help other families? Please post your responses in the questions and comments section below.
LET'S WORK TOGETHER!!
The mind of a person plans his way,
But the Lord directs his steps.
Proverbs 16:8-10
New American Standard Bible