Apostolic Homeschoolers

We Need a Vacation!!!...

2011-03-15T10:14:00.001-07:00

Spring is Here! Spring may have already sprung where your located. You may not have the problem us Northerners have. At our house the snow is still around in large quantity with some drifts 2 feet deep occupying our yard yet. By now, the kids are beyond cabin fever, they have reached stir crazy mixed with winter blues. Most of our homes have moments every day where every one of the inhabitants have had it...with winter (even though they could go sledding yet, but now detest the snow they loved so much back in December), with each other, with school work...

Perhaps you need a Vacation! No, I don’t mean going away for two weeks to Hawaii, (though the thought isn’t bad but probably a little too expensive). So what can we do? Here’s some ideas you might try.

SPECIAL FAMILY DAY

Plan a special family event. Costs and adventure can be low key; the important part is the “togetherness”. Most families plan “vacation” time for summer when the kids are out of school. Home schoolers have a tremendous advantage—to take school where we need to and be able to adjust schedules as we must. You day could be as simple as going to McDonald’s play land or more elaborate like a children’s museum. The important thing: do it as a family and plan nothing else for the day. (And, don’t do it on a Saturday. All the other parents in public school land are there with their kids for the same reasons.)

OVERNIGHT VACATION

One home schooling family earmarks $200 from their tax refund as “home school vacation day”. They secure a nice hotel with a good rate (breakfast included) in a quiet place, opting for one with little traffic during the week so the pool is available without others around. They stay close to home, meaning the family does not spend half their “together” time in the car. Dad leaves early from work and takes the next day off. Mom and kids have the overnight luggage packed when he gets home.

The family checks in to the hotel and then goes out for a fun meal. Afterwards, they often go shopping for a new board game to play back at the hotel OR they allow each child to purchase an item they can enjoy at the hotel that evening.

After breakfast the next morning, they head for the pool which is usually quiet. This is the trip’s highlight. Later, they head for home, stopping for pizza along the way.

OPERATION “PROJECT DAY”

The focus is on one “project” which is open ended. One family went “park hopping” in the late spring. They would pack a lunch and map out the parks to visit. Usually, energy ran low before they made it to all the parks on their list. They set a limit of 30 minutes per park, and played car games while driving from one park to another. Along the way, they enjoyed a picnic and often finished the afternoon with an ice cream cone.

Another project idea is planning a special evening at home. Some ideas:

· Personal pizza nights when everyone becomes the chef (and dishwashers) and makes their own personal pan pizza.

· A winter camp out in the living room. If you have a fire place it makes it even more special. You can roast hot dogs and fix s’mores for dessert. Bring out the sleeping bags and everyone finds a spot for the night. Dim the lights and read a good story together before going to bed. If you have no fireplace, you can still have the sleep over with all the fun involved.

· A treasure hunt throughout the house with a special treat as the treasure.

· Game night with each family member choosing a game to play and taking turns playing each game. Add finger food snacks to make it really a treat.

· Drama night when the children “present’ an original drama. You may invite grandparents, other family or friends to share in the special evening. Finish the evening with a nice dessert for everyone to enjoy.

With some imagination and creativity, excitement and distraction from the last of winter blues will chase away the winter school doldrums. After all, if parents are not creative with what’s happening at our home school, the children can certainly be creative, and sometimes a little more rambunctious than the parents prefer.

Get together for a family pow wow and find out how much you can have fun together. After all, school is life and life is school, so make it enjoyable along the way.

Sis. Shirley Engelhardt

2011-01-21T04:28:00.000-08:00

In April 2010, Army Major John Jackson and his wife Carolyn had their five children taken from them by the New Jersey Division of Youth and Family Services. Their lawyer, Grace Meyer, explained, "When the kids were in custody, the children said ‘Yes, we were spanked,’ and they quoted the Bible, ‘Spare the rod, spoil the child.’ So the people from Youth and Family Services said they were beaten with rods and are ‘over-religious,’ and took their Bibles away," In addition to physical abuse, the Jacksons have been accused of abusing the children through corporal punishment and depriving them of TV and video games, and of harming their social development through home schooling."

Home-schoolers, we are living in an evil society that considers biblical corporal punishment and deprivation of TV and video games to be a bad thing. Truly we have entered the age where good is called evil and evil is called good. Let us be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that our labor is not in vain in the Lord.

A Word to the Homeschool Mom

2010-11-08T13:11:00.000-08:00

The last several months I have devoted to talking to each individual involved with your home school. I wrote first to the student and then to dads. Now, it is your turn Mom.

THE TEACHER'S PERSPECTIVE...(Thoughts from a Mom's Heart)

Dear Home School Mom,

Welcome to the world of a home school mom / teacher. I am a mom at heart. When I assumed the role as wife and mother, I took it quite seriously. This is a God given position, so I know I must fulfill the obligations surrounding this important position.

I am a teacher at heart. I love teaching and seeing another discover the joy of learning something new. I officially became Engelhardt's Home School "Teacher".

Mom and Teacher just seem to go together. This individual is extremely important in a child's life. Each one of your children was given to you to nurture, admonish, train, and love. You have a unique position. You can change your world through the child you have under your tutelage. Therefore, great care must be given. Good discipline must be maintained. A secure environment must be readily available every moment. God's presence must permeate the atmosphere of the place that is called both home and school for a home school family. You make the difference! You are instrumental in creating either a haven or chaos.

Let's briefly examine important steps to a well run home school from your perspective as the primary teacher.

#1) Your own walk with the Lord. You need time with Him every morning. Personal devotions are crucial to your day. I found that when I took time for Jesus first thing in the morning, the rest of the day no matter how full or stressed, went amazingly well. Activities, school work, chores, and a host of "things" were accomplished, even if they did not fit on the day's calendar. It seemed Jesus stretched the day to fit around all the activity of a busy household, while a semblance of order was maintained.

#2) Right priorities are essential. I have heard it far too often, "Maybe I should go out and find a job. . . I am not out among people enough doing God’s work. . . I am just a housewife, taking care of kids, cleaning, cooking; nothing important like I should be doing for the Lord. . . Maybe I should just put the kids back in regular school. . ." May I ask those who question the value of work in the home:

"Where are your priorities?"

When I discovered that the Lord had given me the young lives that lived in my house to care for and raise for Him, I suddenly realized the weight of this responsibility. He very clearly spoke to my heart saying, "If you cannot lead your own family to me through your care for them, how can you ever expect to help those outside find me?"

You and I are accountable to God for the children each of us has brought into this world. Therefore, God's priorities for us in our homes say that our husband and children are the first souls we must care for. We are expected to do our very best on the job.

Next, I am not a housewife! I did not marry a house. My primary career is a homemaker. This simply means I am caretaker for the home and those who reside there.

When one decides on a career, she must study to pursue the proper course for the goal she has in mind, prioritize, organize, and carry out her duties to the best of her ability in the position she holds.

Homemaking is a career and should be treated with utmost care and respect. Setting priorities and fulfilling the tasks are expected of the homemaker. In this career you are both employer and employee. NO one else has the ability quite like you to accomplish the task. Because it is your career, do it well!

One Jewish rabbi likened our position to that of a "Minister of the Interior". The husband/dad is the "Minister of the Exterior". He primarily oversees outside the four walls. He is the breadwinner. He takes care of the needs that will effect the home from the outside. Primary responsibilities include bringing home the income needed, home maintenance, and protecting the home environment from outside elements, etc.

The wife/mom oversees the environment within the four walls. Multitudes of tasks in addition to producing a loving, secure haven are essential to the well being of all residents in the home.
As Mom you cannot afford to neglect even the smallest, seemingly insignificant details that can support or destroy the home effort.

As on-the-job foreman 24 hours a day for your family and home, you create the haven needed in a cruel world.

MOM, YOU ARE IMPORTANT TO GOD'S WILL FOR YOUR FAMILY!
Lovingly,
From One Home School Mom to Another

A Word to the Student

2010-09-08T19:41:00.000-07:00

Today I want to talk to you, the home school student (before your school year begins). Your parents may read this first and then hand it to you. That's good. Take it, read it, and live it because it could hold the keys to your success. So, here goes, home school student...
You have set before you a great opportunity to succeed. Many home school students have preceded you and stepped into the world, found life's work, and lived for God as they did so. You can, too! It begins at home. Your day should begin just like any other student's.

You should:

Get up when told to whether by an alarm clock or if Mom awakens you.
Get dressed. Pajamas are not proper school attire. You and Mom should decide on what should be worn at school.
Eat a good breakfast. If you cannot eat first thing in the morning, at least have a glass of juice (the "100% juice" kind). If you do need to eat, it should be food that will help you study well. (This excludes sugary cereal, chocolate milk, doughnuts, etc.)
Do your morning chores. This should include making your bed, helping with breakfast dishes, brushing your teeth, and other assigned chores.
Arrive at your desk on time. Some day you will need to be at work on time. This helps you learn how to be punctual (on time).

Your school day should include:

Prayer before you begin anything.
Accomplishing all goals set for you in your school work. Doing this will help you when it is time to work in the world. Usually there is no homework when one is diligent about doing the work during the school day.
Helping Mom or Dad as needed or requested.
Helping your brothers and/or sisters, and getting along with them.
Setting goals for the next day and straightening your desk area before leaving school.
A prayer of thanksgiving for your day.

When you follow your school day schedule as you should, after school time can be relaxing. But, don't forget your afternoon chores. You can then enjoy evening activities.

Just before bedtime:

Pick up all your own things that you may have left out during the evening, around the house, or in your room.
Have a praise and prayer time and...
Set your Alarm Clock!

The Word of God says to sons and daughters:
"A wise son (daughter) maketh a glad father: but a foolish son (daughter) is the heaviness of his (her) mother." Proverbs 10:1
"Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work be pure, and whether it be right." Proverbs 20:11
"Honour thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise; that it may be well with thee, and that thou mayest live long on the earth.' Ephesians 6:2-3
You have much to look forward to -- use your home school education well.

Taken from The Apostolic Home School by Shirley Engelhardt

Socialization

2010-05-26T12:35:00.000-07:00

This time of the year the above word seems to surface frequently as parents consider their education for their children. As usual, there are various opinions regarding the subject. Since I have been approached about the socialization of home school students, I wish to rehearse my views (from experience) on home schooling and the need for socialization.

The term "socialize" means to make fit for life in companionship with others. In education it means to turn from an individual activity into one involving all or a group of pupils.

If we take into consideration the above definition, then every single person in our world does socialize in some form. However, it has been decided by some that this term fits solely into the mold of a group mentality. Society thinks, "When the kids have interaction with others their own age they are properly 'socialized'". What happens to their thought patterns? Decisions are based primarily upon their peer’s thoughts and actions.

In I Kings 2 we find Rehoboam did just that. He refused the counsel of the old men of Israel. He relied upon his peer's counsel and brought about division in his country.

Home education can be very beneficial in giving the balance needed in a young person's thinking process.

Living with minimal outside peer pressure allows the young person to develop a broader perspective in decision making. The parameters of his thoughts are expanded.

Meanwhile, in the home environment the biblical command is obeyed by the parents as they diligently teach the children the precepts of the Lord and the value system by which they as a family choose to live.

Balanced socialization includes time spent with the Lord, parents and other adults, peers, siblings, children younger than oneself, and alone. Everyone has lonely times. A young person in the midst of a large group of friends can still feel all alone. A home schooler will have lonely times just as the public and private school student, but the essence of the lesson is learned when one knows where to go.

Sources of socialization should include home, church, and school in that order. God started the process of socialization with a family. He chose this institution as the means by which He would perform the primary training of future generations. The Word of God is the instruction manual, the parents are the instructors, and the church should be the reinforcement of this instruction.

"Education" today has chosen to reverse the order and eliminate one of the essential elements. Proper socialization in their eyes comes first through the "schools". No one else can do it as well as they can. Get the kids in their grip and they can win them for life. Wait a Minute! Isn't that what the church is supposed to do? Win them for life? Yet, the church is totally ruled out and if possible the parents handcuffed so there is no interference. Suddenly, problems occur. Shootings take place, surveillance must be maintained, security officers at every door; and, added to the list is a card with an ID number on it identifying the student. No cash comes to school to pay for lunch, etc. Our schools have become a cashless society. Are we rehearsing the end time beginning with our children? Meanwhile inside, sexual freedom and alternative lifestyles are freely taught in and outside the classroom. Remember, this is a school being discussed. These things described a prison when I was growing up. Is an Apostolic to accept this type of "socialization"?

Meanwhile from the "not socialized" environment of a home school, students out score their counterparts on national achievement tests consistently; there are high regards for and acceptance of home schoolers in the higher institutions of learning; students take top honors in the national spelling bee; and employers employ these students stating they would take a home school student any day because of their high value system.

It is long overdue to put the issue of socialization to rest. Home school student, you have long ago proven false the notion that you are deprived of proper socialization. Keep up the good work!

by Sis. Shirley Engelhardt

Bribing kids

2010-05-04T02:49:00.000-07:00

The cover story for the April 19, 2010, issue of Time magazine was titled "Should Schools Bribe Kids?" The story told of a recent experiment run in the government schools of four large cities: Washington DC, Dallas, Chicago, and New York. In each city certain groups of school kids were offered bribes in exchange for certain behaviors. For example, ninth-graders in Chicago could get $50.00 for an A, $35.00 for a B, and $20.00 for a C. During the test period, 4396 students participated and received an average payoff of $695.61. The result? No change in standardized test scores.

With the exception of Dallas, the other experiments were equally worthless. But in Dallas, where second graders were offered $2.00 for each book they read, reading comprehension scores improved "dramatically." In this experiment, 1780 students received an average of $13.81.

As home educating parents, what can we derive from these results? Number one, we all know that it is unnecessary to bribe 8-year-olds to read books. Most home schooled kids love to read from the earliest age. The key is to guide the reading so that the love for learning is strengthened and not destroyed. My theory is that the reason the second-graders did the best was because they had more of the inate love-of-learning still in them than the older kids, where the love had been crushed years ago.

The second thing is, reading is a primary and effective means of educating and should be fundamental in every home educating plan. Just requiring a child to read, even using bribes, works. Kids learn. Comprehension improves. This is not to endorse the use of bribes at all; only to say that even when receiving money is the motive, reading is a powerful force in learning.

Finally, as far as I'm concerned, this experiment proved that bribing does not work and should not be a tool in the education of children. We should never bribe our kids to learn or to behave well. Some parents do this unwittingly by saying things such as, "If you want that ice cream cone later on, then you'll clean up your room now." Such approaches are resorting to bribery and should be abandoned.

It may seem idealistic to some, but children still can, and should, be taught to do what is right simply because it is right. Any other motive sets them up for future failures. It is true that this idea is counter-cultural in our behaviorism-driven world, and the Time article affirms this. At the end of the article, an eighth-grader is asked if she shouldn't work hard simply for the love of learning rather than short-term rewards. Her answered is, "We're kids. Let's be realistic." In other words, in her mind it is unreasonable to expect 13-year-old "kids" to do something for nothing. How sad.

Calling 911

2010-04-21T14:29:00.000-07:00

Keeping a regular school schedule is essential to the success of your Home School. To take time out regularly guarantees failure in some area of your children's training. However, there are those times when "time out" is absolutely necessary.

My family's life situation the past year is a real example. I developed what the doctors thought was a sinus infection, only after 2-1/2 months it was decided that I needed to go further. Before all was said and done, I had open heart surgery to give me a new mitral valve on October 6, 2009. Meanwhile, I was sick everyday with elevated temperatures. This put a strain on our whole family. My husband was with me constantly, but he did have to work; so, my daughters would help as much as possible. That meant my oldest daughter, Krisann, took time away from the children's daily school schedule up until surgery. The day of surgery she and my youngest daughter, Hannah, accompanied me and my husband to the hospital and stayed until I was settled in ICU; and, she and the children were at the hospital every day thereafter until I came home. What did that do to their school schedule? It totally upended any regular school hours. What did she do? She set aside the book work and took the time necessary to live through the situation with her family. My 12 year old grandson was very concerned about Grandma the night before my surgery so she took time to pray with him and kept in touch with her children during the next day. Was there school? No, not in the books; but, life's school was taking place in a very real way. When the children visited me in the hospital, they discovered what it took to help Grandma heal. They gained a new appreciation for the medical profession, and when their other Grandma had emergency heart surgery the next month, they were prepared.

What should you do in emergency situations when you home school? Be willing to put away the books for the moment and take care of the matter. It may be short term and then you can return to your regular schedule. In the event of a lengthy situation (such as illness or death) take the time necessary to live through the situation with your family. Schedules can be altered. My grandchildren learned how to study in many places other than their school room. Be aware of both your needs and those of your family. Emotions run high and yet be hidden from others until the emotion comes out. Stay in touch with each other, set aside the schedule if the children need to talk or just be with you without books. Trudging through the books regardless of the situation may short circuit their learning. Life situations are part of life’s school and they need to be experienced.

Take "Time Out" when life's emergencies face you and allow God's timing into your schedule. He has a special experience for you and your family.

Sis. Shirley Engelhardt

From Smorgasbord to Serious Study

2010-03-21T17:11:00.000-07:00

From Smorgasbord to Serious Study

by Jacqi Stevens

Every summer, on vacation from grade school, our family would make the drive from our home in the Long Island suburbs of New York City to the peaceful woodland of central Connecticut. Along the way, we would pass a roadside restaurant with a big blue-and-white sign proclaiming, “Smorgasbord.” Fascinated to know what a smorgasbord was, each year I would beg my dad to let us stop there for lunch. Each year, he would just keep driving to our destination.

One year, we did stop (it was on the way home—a totally different driving dynamic). I actually got to go inside this mystery place and find out what a smorgasbord really was. This was years before the menu was cheapened to the fare people call “smorgy”—it was a gustatory delight! Each family member took her own plate and was free to choose what she liked: a spoonful of this mystery food, a slice of that roast, a dollop of that creamy dish. Most of the foods were unknown to me (not having grown up in a Scandinavian tradition), but I was willing to try anything that smelled and looked so good! None of our family completed a full-course meal there, but we all somehow managed to leave that restaurant feeling very full and satisfied.

Now that I’ve traveled down the homeschooling road for several miles, I’ve come to see the earlier years of our experience much like a smorgasbord. The elementary grades were a delightful time to open up our young student’s mind to a multitude of disciplines. Physical Education became not just P.E. but softball, tennis, soccer, football, aerobic exercise, weight training...maybe even more exotic exercise events like fencing or archery. Enrichment courses abounded in art: sculpting, pottery, even cartooning lessons! Quilting, drama, violin lessons, chess, singing classes, cake decorating, and more rounded out the great feast for the mind.

Those early grades for the homeschooler were rich with an abundant cache of community resources and parent co-ops. Many of those first tastes of the academic world helped develop a craving for more training in specific areas. The problem was: all too soon, the upper grades crowded out all time for the fanciful samplings of the earlier years. We had been getting “full” but hadn’t really taken the time to eat one full-course meal.

What to do in those older grades? Balance becomes a problem when higher skill levels lead to even more demanding course requirements. It’s time to move from sampling the smorgasbord to mastering specific skills. I’ve talked to many moms of students moving into the high school years. Those students were privileged to have that early taste at the smorgasbord, and they wanted to keep sampling! There simply isn’t that luxury as we travel closer to our destination on high school graduation day. The answer is: focus.

Frankly, there isn’t enough time in a day for a student to keep up the sampling strategy in curriculum choices for high school. The tragedy is having to choose among many loves. My daughter wept to say goodbye to some of her favorite grade school pursuits. But as an avid high school debater, she finds her tournament schedule—and the prerequisite research, writing and editing tasks—precludes the luxury of several electives or hobbies. In order to do well at that level, she has to hone her efforts to make sure there is adequate time for her number one task.

It is hard helping a student see that need, when that student has many academic loves. Prioritization is important, but is often a skill students at that age are still learning. Criteria in choosing can include what the student excels at, what the student enjoys doing most, and what will help a student make life choices (as a Christian and as a future family provider). Endeavors that improve academic standing are important, but consider also fitness, health, and social or emotional outlets. We want to educate the whole person, not just a mind-in-a-box. A “package deal” viewpoint may help in making those choices. In our daughter’s chosen pursuit (debate), while we know she is developing communication and reasoning skills, she is also able to tap into a great network of like-minded students, fulfilling social needs, developing emotional maturity (in the frustrating face of defeat), and even developing teaching skills as she helps those younger students in her league who are still struggling to learn. There are other such choices that allow your student to become well-rounded even as he focuses on narrowing his choices.

Don’t always assume that choices must delineate a straight-line trajectory from school to career. Did you know a choice for music studies has been shown to benefit many thinking processes normally seen as the domain of math or science careers? Likewise, athletic pursuits may also be efficient training grounds for interpersonal relations and wisdom, given the right coaching.

Choices such as these must be taken with a prayerful attitude. None of us can tell the future. We expect our children to move into the focus of high school studies as if they can predict the future—an unfair expectation! The only One who does hold the future is our Lord, and we can’t hope to successfully navigate this part of our student’s journey without seeking God’s guidance.

While encouraging our high school students to bid fond farewell to the magical delights of their grade school learning smorgasbord and focus on what the Lord created them to become, let’s remember to be there as mentors, to provide advice, help our students gain insight from their mistakes, and above all, love them as they grow through these exciting, formative years.

Spring Cleaning

2010-03-18T06:21:00.000-07:00

Time for Spring Cleaning

Whether you have one, two, half a dozen, or more children residing with you, you always have "clutter". Add a home school to it and chaos can quickly creep into the environment in which you live. So, to drive housekeeping before it drives you, install some of the following tips, if you haven't already done so, and your school day and school house will improve.

The House

Declutter - Get rid of everything not used in the last 1-2 years. Methodically go through every closet and drawer. Be merciless. This should be done over a period of one week to one month, and no longer. Eliminate the extras! Spring clean the house - Find a place for everything and keep everything in its place.

Teach the other members of the household (the children) how to pick up and put away personal belongings every day; by: a) doing so yourself, b) and walking them through the same routine every day until the habit has been established. Then when you say "time to pick up, you've got 10 minutes" they do it. (p.s. if they don't, the personal belonging disappears and is retrieved only when they have adequately proven they will do as told.) Children are assigned and taught tasks that they do with an inspection by you following. If it's your husband who is a messy, patiently, lovingly, (with a meek and quiet spirit) help him learn ways he can help you with these routines.

Establish a maintenance program. Include a daily 5 minute pickup for each room (20 minutes in the kitchen).

Obtain a cleaning caddy - a two sided container with the following in it: clean dust clothes, spray bottle of all purpose cleaner (a little dish washing liquid in water), spray bottle of window cleaner (mixture of vinegar and water), small squeegee, paper towels, sponges, utility knife, bathroom and toilet bowl cleaners (When children are older keep these two items, window cleaner, and paper towels along with the toilet bowl brush in a basket under the bathroom sink for quick use every day.)

Quick cleaning room by room:

Dust with duster
Spot clean marks on walls, doors, light switches, etc. and remove marks on glass with glass cleaner
Do floors-sweep or vacuum, shake out mats or small rugs, mop if needed.

The Laundry

Do one to two loads of laundry/ironing each day. It makes quick work of an unpopular task.
Ironing - Plan and iron at the scheduled time no matter how few or many items there are; or, buy wrinkle free everything.

The Meals

Have a weekly planning session in which you plan menus for the week and make a grocery list at that time. Post the list so items can be added as needed until you shop. Note: I did the following many years ago and it eliminated much frustration when planning meals. Set up on your computer a meal planning guide of all your family's favorite meals. This will be used for your weekly plans. *Make a weekly menu each week by adding the meal planned to the day of the week. *Keep adding to this list throughout the year and the next year you will only need to alter it if needed. *Take one day to go through your grocery store and write down the aisles along with the items in that aisle that you use. Once home type it on your computer and then you can run it off each week; and, only need to highlight the items needed. It works great for Walmart, drug stores, any stores you frequently use. (Note: Enlist your children to work on this project with you. These are good lessons for home economics, computer, etc.) By the way, all of my daughters took this with them when they set up housekeeping. They live by their grocery lists.

Plan well-balanced, healthy meals

Shop by the grocery list only. Look at the labels on products for ingredients. You would be amazed at the things that are added to foods. Rule of thumb: The less artificial and more natural ingredients in the food the more natural the product. Look for alternatives. You could probably make the same item for much less and more healthy for your family (and it usually does not take much more time to make from scratch).

Eliminate more junk food. Replace with the good stuff. Find the healthy brands of chips; make homemade cookies, cakes, etc., without all the sugars.

Plan and have at least one meal together as a family every day.

As you apply these principles and tips personally, your "every days" will take on a new dimension of purpose. When you willingly make the housework your "work", you will feel accomplished and fulfilled in this God given calling.

So Practical; and yet, So Spiritual!

By Sis. Shirley Engelhardt

Reflect and Connect

2010-02-27T06:56:00.000-08:00

By David A. Huston

My wife and I are just finishing up a 28 day break. We left our home in central Pennsylvania on January 31 and arrived the next day at a rented house on Isle of Palms, just outside beautiful Charleston, SC. Since my wife works at home on her computer, her company didn't mind her working from another location for a month. For me, the purpose was to get away from the regular hubbub of life so I could focus on some lingering writing projects.

Our time here has been marvelous. Even though we have both been working as much as we would have at home, we have not had most of the other responsibilities that normally fall on our shoulders. The break from these "cares of life" and "ministry concerns" has been refreshing and invigorating. We have now reached the point where we are actually looking forward to heading home and getting back into the flow.

In the Bible we read of Moses going off by himself for 40 days, twice. We also read of Elijah and Jesus spending 40 days alone. On other ocassions we read of Jesus getting away from the others for some alone time. I have come to believe that this is a principle of life which we ignore to our own peril. This was the longest I have ever been away and, of course, I wasn't alone; my wife came with me. But the principle is, every so often we all need to step out of our normal surroundings for a time of reflection and connection.

I believe this is the underlying principle of the Sabbath. Sure, we're no longer required to keep a ceremonial Sabbath once a week as the Jews do, but the idea of regularly stepping out of the normal and into a place that's relatively free of responsibilities and distractions is still a great idea. Perhaps God sees that we all need a short Sabbath experience once a week just to keep on track. This is why workaholics tend to be all wound up. They never take a break.

But in addition to the short weekly breaks we all need, I propose that leaders in particular, which includes all husbands and fathers, need more extended breaks. If Jesus did, why would we think we don't? I certainly realize that everyone cannot get away for 28 days (believe me, I feel very very blessed to be able to do so). But for several years now I have been going off to a lake-side cabin at a state park for three days at a time. I do this twice a year. In addition, I have done missions work in Africa and some of those trips have actually left me with a fair amount of alone time where I can reflect on my life and connect more deeply with Jesus.

I want to recommend that all men put on their yearly calendar at least one 3-day break where they can go off all by themselves (once per year is the minimum). I encourage wives to support this. And men, when you go, make some commitments to yourself, such as checking email and checking with home only once a day. Eliminate all other calls other than real emergencies. If you are like me, it will take the better part of the first day for the spin in your spirit to slow down. But I want you to know that once your spirit settles down and all the screaming voices in your head get quiet, you will be amazed at how much the Lord is talking. And we all, as leaders in various capacities, deperately need to be tuned into the voice of the Lord.

Reflect and connect: that's what the Sabbath is all about. Once we have stepped out of the normal for a period of time, we will find that when we re-enter, we have more power over the normal than the normal has over us.

Tips for a Spiritual Homeschool Mom

2010-02-17T11:36:00.001-08:00

As a Home school mom, you wear a multitude of hats; and, often more than one at a time. So, you are always juggling schedules, directing traffic, acting as chef, etc., etc., etc. This is where "clutter" accumulates and priorities get out of order quickly. Unfortunately, our "spiritual" side gets left behind when this clutter attacks. A few tips can make the difference between a spiritual or a carnal home school mom.

PRACTICAL TIPS FOR A CLUTTER FREE LIFE
* Keep Jesus first.
* Make time with Jesus, set that appointment and keep it. It may shorter than other times but the key is to take the time, shut the door, and pray.
* Study the word (Sunday afternoons after your nap).
* Fast regularly as you are physically able.

Keep relationships in the right order.
* Jesus first
* husband and children (in that order) second
* yourself in relationship with your husband and children

Practice...
* what you teach,
* where you go,
* how you appear,
* why you do what you do,
* when you practice it.

Take Sunday off for rest and refreshment in the Holy Ghost.
* Make Sunday dinner the day before and tuck it in the crock so minimal preparation can be done upon arrival at home.
* Create a Sunday night treat that everyone likes on a weekly basis. At our house it is pizza and (yes) popcorn. Sometimes veggies and dip are served with it, and always ice cream for dessert. Family and guests alike enjoy it and never tire of it.

Responsible parenting includes...
* Your own salvation and spiritual growth, faithfulness to church, teaching them the Word, loving, praising, and serving the Lord yourself, respect and support for your pastor and church family.
* Care for the children's personal hygiene; instruction in schooling; proper manners and attitudes; career opportunities; Godly discipline; family time spent together; giving each child attention; and working together for a common goal.
* Teaching them that Dad and Mom need alone times together.

Practice unselfish love.
* Watch your moods and emotions.
* Never make a major decision when fatigued or stressed.
* Think before you speak!
* Lay aside excuses.
* Give no occasion for offense.
* Stop comparing yourself to others.

Your husband needs you to...
* Appreciate his desire to work and achieve.
* Allow him to protect and provide, to serve and to lead.
* Understand his need to analyze and counsel.
* Willingly develop a friendship.
* Give yourself permission to enjoy your husband as he desires.

Scramble with Purpose
* The purpose is to free time for people in your life instead of things.
* The theme for victory over "House" work is DECLUTTER!
Remember: You MUST drive housekeeping or it will drive you!

Taming the Tongue To Do's
* Think before your speak.
* Be careful with your actions.
* Before repeating opinions, check with the one who told you the statement first. Ask such questions as, "Did I understand you right?" or "Is this really what you meant?"
* Wisely guide your words with true statements when asked to respond to questions that put you in an awkward position, or simply reply by stating that you have nothing to add or say.

10. Circumstantial Evidence of Contentment
* Pay with cash only.
* Learn to do it yourself.
* Budget and stick to it.
* Stay thankful right where you are.

Putting these tips into practice will free not only your days, but also your mind and your spirit. Teach them to your children and you will see the next generation successful in their endeavors. Next time, I will share a very plain topic with you but an amazing one that helps you stay clutter free. God Bless!

By Sis. Shirley Engelhardt

Before You Pull Out Your Hair...

2010-01-20T19:09:00.000-08:00

It's winter here in the Northland and kids are stuck inside more than they want to be. Perhaps you have an easier climate in which to work, but those inside days are with you anyway. That means that Mom is expected to have all sorts of activities during in the day, right? Then, the questions pop into Mom's mind - How can I possibly get it all done in my day? What do I do with the everyday chores if I spend all my time at "School"? What do I do on behalf of my toddlers/baby while I have "school"? How do others do it?

As a Christian school supervisor many years ago, I developed a schedule that was adaptable to my multitude of duties as wife, mom, and supervisor. When I became a home school mom things changed, but the need for a school day did not. A few years ago I asked a daycare teacher who had a business in her own home before she chose to work in a larger facility. Their schedules had many similarities, so I focused on the picture of a home school with children ranging in ages toddler through high school.

The first and foremost thought I had to keep in my mind was...for approximately six hours on my school days, I must be devoted to school with my children. Other chores/activities could be inserted but they could not be the main focus so long as students were involved in their school work, unless the activity was directly related to learning. (Children changing wash loads during their day are in learning mode.)

The day for school age children were well filled out with their work, but how could the baby/toddler fit into the schedule. This is where a daycare schedule comes in handy, modifying it to fit the home school day:

· 8-9 Breakfast

· 9-10 Free Playtime for the toddlers - this allows the children the chance to work off their early energies. Older students begin their work

· 10-11 Activities on their level with Mom/other students (projects, games, puzzle, learning activities*)

· 11-12 Lunch (Note: plan something for the little tykes to do while lunch is being fixed. Of course, incorporate the older students in the lunch making process or toddler sitting. When lunch is done allow some free play)

· 12-3 Transition Time - clean up lunch, older students prepare for afternoon activities, toddlers/baby are settled down for nap. Note: sometime during these hours an all school quiet time should be used. (High school, too!)

· 3-4 Everyone up and working together again. Usually plan a snack to stave off an attack on the refrigerator. School should be winding down for the day

· 4-5 Free time - When inside have some coloring sheets for toddlers or easy things to play with such as legos, etc. Older students can help with dinner or the younger children

*Learning Activities: Daycares are usually required to do some sort of teaching. Themes are frequently used in the daycare setting. Pick a theme for each school month of the year. For example: February is the month of love. Doing one of these activities over one week could include making heart cookies and preparing them for someone special outside the family: perhaps Pastor, the elderly, or someone in need. Cards are always popular. Prepare their own cards to give to friends or someone they think of highly. If you let your mind go and make it fun for your children and yourself, the learning process is highly successful.

My last thought: School is first during the school day. Other chores/activities must be fit in around the schedule. Next time I'll give you some hints how this can be done.

God Bless Your Winter!

by Sis. Shirley Engelhardt

Dear Mom

2009-12-14T17:07:00.000-08:00

Once in awhile, (sometimes more than we want) we find ourselves desiring to do something more noble than the daily, monthly, and yearly work that is ever before us. At this season remind yourself what it really means to be a Mama. The following thoughts are my gift to you as a reminder of the special place Mama holds.

Mama, you taught me a lot through the apron you wore,
but particularly how my Lord and Savior to adore.

You were the finest example of godly women I know,
You have placed in my life the desire to grow,
Learning the boundaries that keeps me safe and secure,
Knowing my walk with Jesus is sure.

May the Word take root in my heart as it did in yours,
And show me the way that will open Heaven’s doors,
To a world that’s lost and going astray,
That my life is a witness of Jesus’ love everyday.

Thank you, Mama, for being there
Always ready and armed with prayer.
It made the difference, you see,
for Mama’s prayer touched Heaven for me.

Now, I have a duty with children of my own,
The privilege to lift their names daily before the throne,
I dare not take it lightly for I have been given a choice,
Cover them with prayer that they too may hear God’s voice,
And choose for themselves to follow the Lord,
drawing close to Him through the power of His Word.

So, Lord Jesus, I come to you with prayers on my heart,
giving thanks and praise to you
‘til it is time for me to depart,
Prayerfully leaving a legacy of a holy walk,
That others may follow just as they ought.
Living in holiness and truth by your Word
That one day we may worship you together saying,

“Holy, Holy, Holy, is our God, the LORD!”

Taken from Mama’s Apron written by Shirley Engelhardt

To all our home school families...Have a rich and blessed Christmas and New Year!
By Sis. Shirley Engelhardt

Chilling news from Germany

2009-11-25T07:25:00.001-08:00

The headline reads, Prosecutor to Homeschoolers: No Compromise—You’re Going to Jail!

The article says...
Juergen and Rosemary Dudek of Archfeldt, Germany, were sentenced to 90 days in prison in July 2008 because they homeschool their children. Their sentence was overturned by an appeals court because of a legal error, and a new trial was ordered. Their new trial began November 16. German news reports indicate the judge appears disposed to seek a compromise. But prosecutor Herwig Mueller has vowed to appeal any sentence that does not include jail time for these parents, who have been in the spotlight for years because of their insistence on homeschooling. This was the same prosecutor who appealed the lower court sentence of only a fine, saying to the family, “You don’t have to worry about the fine because I will send you to jail.”
Armin Eckermann, president of the homeschool organization, Schuzh, was present at the trial. He told HSLDA the judge was seeking a compromise. “This judge said that he thought a jail sentence was too harsh for the Dudek family under this situation,” said Eckermann. “But the prosecutor took a hard line.”

The new trial was continued to next week after more than seven hours of testimony. This included an outburst by Mr. Mueller when Mr. Dudek asked the local school officials if they knew the current laws that criminalize homeschoolers were based on laws from 1938. Mr. Mueller loudly protested: “All those Nazi laws have been suspended, and this one is democratic, and you’ve got to accept it, and that’s it.” Mr. Dudek disagrees.

“The ‘schuhlpflicht’—the laws that require school attendance—are on the books in the German states,” he explained, “and have been traced back to the ‘Reichsculpflicht Gesetz’ [federal compulsory attendance laws] which was passed in 1938. Except for the removal of references to the Nazi party, these laws are identical or substantially the same as the laws passed by Hitler’s government, criminalizing parents who keep their children home for school.”

The Dudeks feel that homeschooling their children is the right thing to do and are determined resist what they consider unjust laws barring them from home education.

As those who are dedicated to the home education of children, let's keep this noble German family in our prayers. And remember, the government-run school system we have in the US originated in Germany in the early 1800s. If we think this couldn't happen here, we are mistaken.

To read the entire article go to http://www.hslda.org/hs/international/Germany/200911200.asp

When You Can't Get it All Done

2009-11-12T11:01:00.000-08:00

...THEN DO SOME.

We all have those days, weeks, or perhaps even seasons when it seems every school day either has an interruption, sickness or simply too many things bombarding the schedule. Our home school is no exception, and now we are embarking upon one of the busiest of all seasons—the holidays. But, we need not lose it all over this time of thankfulness and the wonder of the our Lord’s birth. Instead, make the very best of the days ahead.

When the schedule is filling fast and school is failing fast, take time to evaluate what is a reasonable path to follow and schedule school work with a lighter pace in mind. Your students are not going to fail to graduate because you rearranged the calendar to allow for the season. These holidays are too precious for our families to be stressed.

Sit down with your family as well as both your school and regular calendars. Arrange your priorities to allow for your family to both accomplish “some” school work and enjoy the many activities together to which you look forward. Remember, school is life and life is school. Homeschoolers have the unique opportunity to bring life into school and live those opportunities while taking in the many wonderful events of the holidays.

So, when you can’t get it all done...then do some. Don’t worry about the rest you didn’t get done for now, it will be waiting for you another day; and, some of it you will find did not really matter in the first place.

Have a Beautiful Holiday Season!

by Sis. Shirley Engelhardt

Sound familiar?

2009-10-02T14:47:00.000-07:00

In his book Liberal Fascism, Jonah Goldberg describes education in Nazi Germany: "Christian morality was slowly purged from the schools, and teachers were instructed to base their moral teaching on 'secular' patriotic ideas. 'The idea of loyalty was very important to the German Volk, as it is for us today,' teachers told their students. Indeed, loyalty to Hitler and the state was drilled into children, while loyalty to one's own parents was discouraged in myriad ways. The children were going to become new men and new women for the new age."

Sound familiar? In light of some of the recent videos we have seen in the news of elementary school children singing praises unto President Obama, one wonders if we are not on a track similar to Germany in 1933. We ought to remember that the original purpose of the first government run schools in the early 1800s was to make the people of Prussia better citizens and more loyal to the king.

As home educators (and/or supporters of home education), let us be thankful that we live in a nation where we still have the freedom to fulfill the biblical mandate of parents to educate their children, raising them up in the fear and admonition of the Lord. Some nations do not permit home schooling, Germany being a prime example, having recently arrested some parents for attempting to educate their children at home. Truly the system of government centers of propaganda, oops, I mean education, is the tool through which the Antichrist will take over the world society.

As Abraham Lincoln once said, "The philospohy of the classroon in one generation will be the philosophy of the government in the next." This suggests that the future bodes well for the devil. But it could bode even better for the Lord if more of His people would remove their precious children from the clutches of the government schools and raise them up at home as God has commanded.

By Dave Huston

To discuss this article click here

Building Walls

2009-09-22T11:22:00.000-07:00

By Sis. Shirley Engelhardt

There are four spiritual walls that we must build around our homes for our children to feel secure.

SINCERE LOVE - Husbands and wives are to love each other and the Lord. When family members love each other, that love takes the place of many rules and regulations. The best way to raise loving children is to give them loving parents who are not afraid to show their love. Parents love for the Lord and each other is a powerful force that moves young people to serve God as He calls them, and experience for themselves the love of God.

PERSISTENT PRAYER - Each home should be a house of prayer. Father and mother ought to have their own private devotional time each day. Mealtime prayers should be maintained. The children should know the parents take time to pray for yourself. We need to bathe our own homes in prayer praying together not only for our own family but for the families of pastors, missionaries, Christian leaders, and the people of God.

WORD OF GOD - The Word of God is to be a normal and natural part of our daily lives. If the Word of God is in our hearts, then it easily comes from our lips, and is acted out with our lives. Unless we are under the discipline of the Word, we cannot expect to discipline others properly nor teach it to following generations. If the Bible is important to parents, it will be important to the children. Our children need to know that we really love the Word of God.

GODLY EXAMPLE OF DEDICATED PARENTS - None of us are perfect. Confessing our own imperfections and mistakes is part of being a good example. Our words and walk must be in harmony with the Lord.

When these walls are built within a home, young people will have the strength, stamina, and steadfastness to stand firm in the faith the day they walk out your door into adulthood.

Mom's Moment

2009-08-25T13:27:00.000-07:00

By Sis. Shirley Engelhardt

Mom, do you allow yourself a Mom's moment each day?

So often as we eagerly set up our year's school schedule, we are tempted to fill it to the brim with bookwork, activity, exercise, with a break or two, and then more activity. We must keep them busy, involved, and learning every moment, so we reason.

Honestly, if we kept that schedule every day we would wear everyone out. But, what if we planned into our day a time when everyone involved had some moments entirely to themselves (including Mom)?

An excellent way to gain equilibrium again is to have a "Quiet Time" each day. For example: Whoever needs a nap, take one; otherwise, each person must find their own personal place, they may not interact with each other during this time unless they absolutely need to talk to Mom, and read or do a quiet activity for the allotted time. Usually 30-60 minutes is sufficient. Set the time according to the need, but make sure all are having their quiet time at the same time. Mom, this does include you. You may have little ones who need constant care, plan the quiet time around part of their nap. The older children can certainly be responsible for their own time as long as you know basically what they are doing. Then, if you need a short nap, take one. Avoid convincing yourself that this is a good time to catch up on...Otherwise, your students come back alive and active but you are still lacking the needed rest yourself.

After the allotted time everyone then comes together again refreshed and able to interact properly.

Click here to discuss this article in the forum

Live it to Learn it

2009-08-12T07:09:00.000-07:00

by Jacqi Stevens

I have had several conversations, over the years, with homeschooling moms who tell me their children just don't love to read like they used to. They wonder what went wrong.

I ask them: "Do you read?"

I usually get back answers like, "Oh, yes. I read to them every night."

Then I have to repeat my question. I am not asking if they read to anyone. I am simply asking: "Do you read?"

We cannot honestly expect our grade schoolers-or teens, for that matter-to love to read if they never see us pick up a book because we love to read. It is that incessant repetition of seeing parents do the right thing that is the best teacher, because it teaches lessons that have staying power in a child's memory. These are lessons that shape life.

While we are so earnestly trying to do our best to teach the many worthwhile subjects that school experts insist should be taught to a child, we need to remember whose expectations we are really seeking to fulfill. Clue: it's not the government's.

While we dutifully examine all the teaching approaches and curriculum choices available, keep in mind that they may be founded on a learning philosophy different than the Lord's.

God teaches us by bringing us through experiences with Him. He values allowing us to learn from others' experiences, too-particularly the lifelong challenges of those once reverently known as "elders." Remember Abraham, or Moses, or Elijah and their experiences with God? They learned a lot in their walks with the Lord, from start to finish. We learned a lot from their experiences, too. This is quite a different educational perspective than one that expects a squirmy third grader to insert the correct word on the blank line of a test paper.

Many of us have been to conferences where we heard someone teach on the oft-repeated passage in Deuteronomy 11: 18-21. "Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds; tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates, so that your days and the days of your children may be many." Speakers usually rehearse all the ways a family can "fix these words" by turning the school event into a walking, talking, car-schooling festival.

The point of this passage is not merely to provide "how-to" instructions for parents to copy. It does not only mean that every time we herd the kids into the van, they must recite their times tables aloud. It is a guide to convert the routine of external assignments into an internal state of affairs so the things we need to learn become an integral part of our lives. As adults, we do all sorts of things that, at one point, we needed to learn. We learned those things best by talking about them, "walking" them, lying down and "sleeping" on them, waking up and doing them-the lessons we learned were lessons we lived. Those lessons have become so much a part of us that it is hard to differentiate what we have become and what we are doing from the old step-by-step learning experience. And the lessons we have learned become the lessons our children will learn by seeing us do them in that walk-along, talk-along life.

Go back, sometime, and read the entire chapter that this passage is taken from. It starts with the warning to Israel to remember to love the Lord. It is a message given expressly to parents so that they will pass that lesson along to their children. Why? Because those children hadn't ever experienced the things that their parents had been through. Those parents had learned a lot about God and about obeying His Word. "Remember today that your children were not the ones who saw and experienced the discipline of the LORD your God. It was not your children who saw what he did for you in the desert until you arrived at this place, But it was your own eyes that saw all these great things the LORD has done" (verses 2, 5 and 7).

Your children need to see for themselves what the appropriate responses are to all of life's circumstances. They need to be able to see you apply God's principles in each difficult moment you face, each challenge you encounter. Of course, they wouldn't be able to see such things if they were sequestered in a public school's cement box for thirty hours each week. But even though they are home, they still will not see real life unfolding before their eyes if their parents aren't living their faith.

This is not merely a call to read your Bible in front of your children, or to pray in your "closet" so loudly that all your babies wake up and hear your intercessory voice. It is, however, a call to become the Psalms One saint whose "delight is in the law of the LORD." Only by knowing-and doing-God's Word in each situation we encounter can we make that Word alive and real to our children. And we can't hope to really do that unless we follow the psalmist's prescription: "And in his law doth he meditate day and night."

Some family friends of ours have been pondering one of life's mysteries: how to direct a soon-to-graduate son in some critical life choices. They asked our family to join them in prayer that the right decisions be made on this son's behalf. Just in prayer this morning, like an echo to my usual question for parents of reading-challenged youngsters, the thought hit me: what do we do to demonstrate to our children the value of seeking counsel from our elders? How has what we lived demonstrated to them this Biblical concept?

Whatever we hope for our children to learn, as they grow and become equipped to live as victorious saints for God, if we haven't lived it-we risk losing the opportunity for them to learn it. And if they don't learn it, how can we hope for them to pass it along?

Click here to discuss this article in the forum

Turning the Lens: Focusing Back on the Basics of Homeschooling

2009-07-21T08:57:00.000-07:00

By Shirley Engelhardt

A certain amount of comparison is necessary in life because it compels us to better ourselves, however we must be careful when it becomes a focus in all that we do. II Corinthians 10:12 says, "For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise." Guard your homeschool against the need to compare it with others. Here's some tips that may help you find the uniqueness of your own school.

· Develop broad goals -- more than academics (such as learning responsibility, etc.).

· Expect and encourage unconventional ways of learning which includes letting go of practices of conventional schools, you do not need every program.

· Do not label kids, learning styles, etc. This creates unnecessary stress and tension in student and teacher.

· Listen to yourself and your children.

· Establish your own time tables.

· Give children as much responsibility as possible without extending beyond their abilities.

· Emphasize learning rather than teaching.

· It is OK to say, “I don’t know”. Search out the answers with the child.

· Learn to deal with doubts. You can do it. God has called you to this.

· Learn to trust yourself, your children, and the fact that your home school is working.

· Understand your state’s law and work to protect the law. This is done primarily through your own home school. You and your family working together to make your home school a personal success is the best testimony.

· Relax and enjoy home schooling!

Your home school is just that -- Yours! Allow Jesus the privilege of giving your school direction. You'll be glad you did.

Passion and Purity

2009-07-07T09:43:00.000-07:00

Twenty some years ago, one of my dear friends called with the exciting news that she was going to be married. Exciting for her--I dealt with some jealousy over her good news and wondered when God would see fit to send someone my way. We had just spent the summer working together in the offices of Washington Music Center in the D.C. area and spent about every free minute discussing our walk with Christ, modest living, and courtship. How delightful it was to spend every workday with someone of similar convictions.

Her return back to Ames Iowa and mine to Albuquerque found us separated by miles but not in heart. That is until the fateful day that she sent me The News. While we were spending our days in D.C. preoccupied with our job and the summer long Christian conference we were attending, a young man back in Ames had been praying about seeking her hand in marriage. Before her trip home, he had approached her dad and had his permission to court her when she returned. A short engagement was followed by a winter wedding and all the excitement of newly married life.

Back home in Albuquerque, my dear friend knew that I was growing impatient for marriage myself and struggled while waiting for God's perfect plan. She sent me the book Passion and Purity by Elisabeth Elliot. OK, some gifts are not met with the best of attitudes, and when I finally got over mine, I appreciated her very thoughtful gift, and read it cover to cover.

Less than two years later, God led me to the perfect man who later became my husband. The message of that book helped me establish the boundaries of purity. These kept me from falling into any improper relationships before marriage to Steve.

There is another book out today, When Dreams Come True, which shares the beautiful courtship testimony of Eric and Leslie Ludy. I highly recommend it to teens who desire to remain pure in their relationships, and to parents who would appreciate reading how other parents helped facilitate the courtship of their children. While not necessarily a how-to book, the example of these young people is worthy to be emulated and is an example that needs to be lifted up in our ranks.

Cookie Cutter Homeschooling

2009-06-18T17:36:00.000-07:00

Colossians 2:16-17 NKJV So let no one judge you in food or in drink, or regarding a festival or a new moon or sabbaths, 17 which are a shadow of things to come, but the substance is of Christ.

Our family recently visited the Answers in Genesis Creation Museum in Petersburg, KY. I absolutely recommend a trip to this fantastic, homeschool friendly place. The exhibits are first class, the grounds are beautiful and the presentation of God's existence is stunning.

While we were going through the exhibits one idea kept leaping out at me. God is a master of the unique. When I looked at the dozens of differently colored and decorated butterflies, and the thousands of different types of fish, I couldn't help but wonder why we humans are so uncomfortable when people are different than us. As a homeschool father, I have come to realize this wonderous truth; my kids are all different. Different from each other and different from me. In fact, different from any other person who ever lived on the planet. They are a masterpiece of creative inginuity from God himself!

One of my jobs as a father is to recognize the differences and help them to find out who God made them to be so they can bring glory to God through the proper application of gifts he gave them (Romans 11:29). Public schooling by virtue of its structure kills individualism and subdues creativity, and I believe that same structure and thinking has invaded the church.

More often than not there is a corporate value structure in the church and in homeschooling circles that supercedes individualism and frowns on uniqueness. A few years ago the joke at homeschool conferences was to say that a denim jumper was the official uniform of homeschoolers. it was funny because it really did appear that was the case. Over the years, I have watched as new "requirements" were put in place before you could be considered a "true" homeschooler. We were relieved to find out that you don't actually have to grind your own wheat, have chickens, or be a musical family to be a "true" homeschooler!

So why is it then that people attempt to put us all in the same religious homeschooling box? I can't say definitely but I believe it is an issue of control for many. Some churches for example take great comfort in making sure everybody dresses the same, acts the same, believes the same, and likes the same things. It makes us feel better when we are around people who are just like us. It reassures us that if we are wrong then so is everybody else. Some homeschool support groups have a hard time accepting familys that walk to the beat of a different drum and that's too bad because what a boring and unimaginative life they must live.

God created us all to be different, to feel differently about things, to like different foods, have different favorite colors, enjoy different music and have different senses of humor. So instead of trying to fit yourself into someone elses mold like a Christmas cookie, I want to encourage you to be yourself and encourage your kids to be themselves and in so doing glorify God your creator who made you different than any other person who ever lived!

Blessings,

Steve

Discuss this article here

Update

2009-06-16T12:35:00.000-07:00

It was brought to my attention today that we are woefully behind in the creation and launch of the Apostolic Homeschool Resource site. We hit a stall in the project when things started getting hectic with our other obligations. My apologies for the delays but we are working on building what we feel will be a great resource for apostolic homeschoolers. Keep checking back as there will be some new content added later this week.

God bless,

Steve

Evansville, Ind Conference

2009-03-13T06:23:00.000-07:00

Today we are heading to Evansville to hear James and Stacy McDonald, speaking on Family Reformation. The conference is put on by the Southwestern Indiana Home Educators. We have been once before and it was a great time. I'll try to update this blog with posts at the conference.

Here is the link to the conference if you are in the Evansville area and want to attend.

Judge Forces Mom to Put Kids in Public School

2009-03-13T06:03:00.000-07:00

In a stunning display of judicial arrogance, a North Carolina judge has ordered that two homeschooled children be placed in public school so that the school system can "challenge the ideas you've taught them" the judge told the homeschooling mother.

Read the full article here.

Forum Open

2009-03-05T07:49:00.000-08:00

Today the forum is open for people to begin signing up and posting. We haven't made the official announcement yet about the site or the forum, so it's kind of a lonely place right now, but it is open. God bless http://apostolichomeschool.forumotion.net/forum.htm

New forum created

2009-03-04T04:16:00.000-08:00

Yesterday (3/3/09) I began work on creating a forum for apostolic homeschoolers. The first thought I had was why another forum, aren't there enough already? Well, there are a lot of forums for homeschoolers and there is no shortages of places on the web for apostolics to interact virtually, but our forum will be one more part of a larger community of like-minded apostolics to connect and share about the struggles and joys of homeschooling from the modern apostolic perspective. We hope to provide a place for people to support and encourage one another as we work toward building a godly family. Look for the complete launch of this site April 10th and please send our links to friends!

God bless,

Steve Stevens

Beginning With a New Vision

2009-03-02T12:30:00.000-08:00

Today we created the framework for what we hope will be a great resource for apostolic homeschoolers. We are putting together this website in order to connect apostolic homeschoolers to each other and non-apostolics to our faith and way of life. We realize that there are already many resources for homeschoolers to interact, but this distinctly apostolic site will feature some very interesting and valuable resources that hopefully will have you returning time and time again.

Look for updates often as we continue to add content. Our launch should take place in April.