Decatur Area Homeschool Network

Attention Budding Pianists

2008-05-05T11:38:00.005-03:00

Dates: Tuesdays & Thursdays June 17- July 24 (6weeks)
Times: 11am - noon - students entering grades 5- 8.
1-2pm - students entering grades 2- 4

Cost: $90

Instuctor: Laura Starshak (prep department piano faculty member)

For many young piano students, learning basic music skills can take

more lesson time than actual playing. This summer the Millikin School

of Music Preparatory Dept is offering a fun way to help your child nail

the basics and progress more quickly with their piano lessons.

Students entering grades 2-4 will enjoy fun activities and games in
note reading, rhythm, listening, and music terms. This class is
intended to reinforce note-reading and rythm as a supplement to music
lessons, not to serve as a group piano lesson.

For students entering grades 5-8, activities will include ear training,
music theory, listening and some music history/appreciation. This class
will introduce broader aspects of music and develop skills for
intermediate students within a fun atmosphere.

Both may include occasional us of the comptuer and or piano lab.
Enrollment is limited to 12 per age group.
Sign up now by callin the Prep office at 425-4698.

Summer Sings is Coming!

2008-05-01T08:06:00.006-03:00

WHAT: Millikin Children's Youth and Choir Summer Camp

WHEN: June 2 - 6, 2008

8:30 - 12 noon

Registration due May 9, 2008

WHERE: Preparatory Department @ Millikin University

WHO: All youth ages 5 - 18 who love to have fun and sing!

WHY: Your kids will have a great time! All ages participate in activities enriching musical literacy including percussion instruments, learn choral music within singer's age group, learn songs in a different language, perform in culminating concert at the end of the week, play learning games, and have fun!

NEW: For the first time, summer camp will include a group for young men with changed voices. These young men will meet Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Their fee is reduced.

HOW: Registration is limited. For questions, please email Kathy Saenz at kathy@saenz.com.

To reserve your spot, please call Carol at 425-4698.

TUITION: $75

Historical Re-Enactment Invitation

2008-04-09T15:55:00.002-03:00

Who: Recommended Age: 2nd – 4th grade youth

What: Mr. & Mrs. Millikin Days at the James Millikin Homestead

Where: James Millikin Homestead

When: Wednesday, April 23rd from 1:30 – 2:20 p.m.

Cost: FREE

Experience life at the turn of the century during Mr. and Mrs. Millikin Days at the James Millikin Homestead. This historical re-enactment tour is offered at no cost to students in the 2nd – 4th grades, their teachers and families.

We have reserved a time slot for home school youth at 1:30 on Wednesday, April 23 and can take upto 40 people.

Come take in the rich history and breath-takingmansion of the founders of Millikin University. Please RSVP to JMHBoard Member and 4-H Coordinator, Kate Shields at kjs@uiuc.edu.

Free Music Opportunities

2008-03-25T16:06:00.001-03:00

Free Music entertainment at the Decatur Public Library:

Saturday, March 29 at 2pm
Roots of Rural Music presented by Chris Vallillo

(http://www.ginridge.com/bio.shtml)
Chris will bring rural music tolife in a livelyperformance and discussion of the roots of music in rural Illinois and its impact on our live today.

also

Sunday, March 30, 2 p.m.

The Millikin Faculty Jazz Quintet will present a concert in recital-lecture format offering the audience an experience that combines informative dialog and great music. The concert will be held in the Madden Auditorium.

Upcoming PASS Programs

2008-03-14T17:08:00.000-02:00

Monday March 31, 2008 @ 12:30pm

Madeline and the Bad Hat Day

Recommended grades PreK-2

Kirkland Fine Arts Center

and

Thursday April 3, 10AM

Instruments of The Orchestra

The Decatur Youth Symphony Orchestra presents music from you favorite

movies, introduces you to the various instruments, and shows you how to

conduct an orchestra.

Kirkland Fine Arts Center

Tickets can be purchased through the Decatur Arts Council

423-3189 $4 per student.

Swimming Lessons for Homeschoolers

2008-03-01T17:13:00.003-02:00

The next six week session of swimming lessons at the Decatur YMCA will

begin Monday, March 10th at 2pm.

You may pre-register or show up a little bit earlier on the first day of class and sign up at the front desk.

The dates are as follows: March 10, 17, 24, 31 & April 7, 14.

Time: 2:00 - 2:45pm.

The cost is $30.00 per child and the child must be at least 5 years old.

Also goggles are really nice for your swimmer(s)!!!

Soccer for Homeschoolers

2008-02-14T17:17:00.001-02:00

The DISC will be running the homeschool soccer program again.

The next session will begin Thursday, March 6th, from 2:00 to 3:00 for 6 weeks.

You may contact the DISC at 429-3472 and ask for either Paul or Liam.

The cost is 34.00

When you have a child enrolled in the soccer program you do not have to pay the 2.50 per person to enter the DISC.

PASS Program

2008-02-01T17:20:00.000-02:00

Just a reminder for the next PASS program...

"Dr Dolittle" is coming up on Feb. 20th at 10am and 12:30 pm at Kirkland Fine Arts Center.

Call or stop by the Decatur Arts Council to reserve a seat.

The cost is 4.00 per student.

Phone- 423-3189.

Pizza Hut "Book-It" Due

2008-01-24T17:22:00.001-02:00

It is time to enroll K-6th grade students for 2008-2009 "Book-It" Program.

Call 1-800-426-6548 or visit www.bookitprogram.com

Deadline for enrollment 6-13-08.

Program dates 10-1-08 to 3-31-09.

It's a nice reading program in which kids can earn free pizza fromPizza Hut.

Choir Festival Opportunity

2007-12-14T16:36:00.000-03:00

The Millikin Children Choir program is pleased to announce the 1st MCC Festival for Decatur area singers grades 2-8. This festival will be held on Saturday, March 8, 2008 at Westminster Presbyterian Church near Millikin University. The day will begin at 9:15 and end at 2:45 p.m. following the 2:00 festival concert in Westminster Presbyterian Church Sanctuary. We would love to have a good turn out of home schooled kids!

This unique opportunity to sing with area school kids is offered for youth NOT already involved in the MCC program during the semester. It promises to be a fun day, filled with group singing in both smaller age level choirs and the large combined choir, plus song games and other activities, all under the direction of our MCC faculty. We hope to encourage anyone who enjoys singing and has an interest or talent for music. A basic ability to match pitch would be very helpful. There is no preparation necessary – students receive music when they arrive. Parents are invited to watch any part of the day's activity - or may feel free to leave after their child is registered, and come back for the free 2:00 festival concert which will showcase the day's accomplishments.

The registration fee is only $20 per singer, and will cover all expenses, including lunch and a t-shirt. This fee is non-refundable. The registration form is at the bottom of this note. To register, singers are asked to send in the form below and their check for $20.00 by Wednesday, February 6. Checks should be made out to "Millikin Preparatory Department." Please send check and form to:

Millikin Preparatory Department
Attn: Carol Greenleaf
Millikin University
1184 W Main
Decatur, IL 62526

E-mail Beth Holmes (holmeswork@juno.com) or Kathy Saenz (kathy@saenz.com) with any questions.

We look forward to working with your children during this special day, and hope it can be a great supplement to the music skills and activities in which your child may already participate!

Music Lessons for Beginners

2007-12-04T16:28:00.000-03:00

Piano and Cello Lessons for Young Beginners (ages 4-12yrs) now available at Ms. Ruth's Music Studio in Forsyth, IL.

The studio offers the opportunity to: have weekly, half-hour, private/one-on-one music lessons in a child-friendly environment, play an instrument, perform with confidence, read music, understand rhythm and music theory, meet other children and parents with similar interests and perform in two fun, supportive recitals each year (December & May); become audition-ready for transition to advanced youth music programs, relax in a comfortable waiting room where siblings can do homework or play with toys utilize a tuition discount for siblings.

Ms. Ruth has a Ph.D. from the University of Southern California and years of teaching experience. Before moving to Forsyth, Ms. Ruth ran a successful music studio for young beginners in Florida.

For more information please call: 217 877 6557

2008 Swimming Lessons Begin

2007-12-01T16:38:00.001-03:00

The first six week session of swimming lessons at the Decatur YMCA for 2008 will begin Monday, January 28th at 2pm. You may pre-register or show up a little bit earlier on the first day of class and sign up at the front desk. The dates are as follows: January 28, February 4, 11, 18, 25 and March 3. Time 2:00 - 2:45pm. The cost is $30.00 per child and the child must be at least 5 years old.

Staley Striders Indoor Track Program

2007-11-20T16:41:00.001-03:00

Here are the details:

Who: Boys & Girls 8 and under, 9-10, 11-12, 13-14

When: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays, 4-5 pm starting December 18th

Where: The Decatur Indoor Sports Center's (DISC)

4-lane, 200 meter mondo track

Staff - Head Coach Mike Landacre (Johns Hill Head Track & Field/Cross Country Coach

Assistant Coaches: Lisa Landacre, Lori Landacre, Rick Scholl (DPS Adaptive PE coach)

Fee: $45 for residents (Decatur Parks District) or $54 non-resident

Individuals interested in competing in USATF or AAU meets must also purchase a $15 current sanction card.

** Individuals competing must provide a copy of their birth certificate during the first week of practice.

**Meet Schedule: Meets are being scheduled for weekends in January and February.

or by phone at 429-3472 using a credit card.

Homeschool Tennis

2007-08-23T17:45:00.000-03:00

Tennis Instruction & Supervised Point Play by a USPTA Certified Pro
(Racquets Provided)

Monday 1:30-2:30 pm
Tuesday 1:30-2:30 pm

Session 1 Monday---Sept. 24th-Oct. 29th 1st-4th grade 6 weeks $38
Session 2 Tuesday—Sept. 25th-Oct. 30th 5th-8th grade 6 weeks $38

Contact: Chuck Kuhle at 217 423-7020

Homeschool Swim Party

2007-08-13T12:44:00.000-03:00

Decatur Area Homeschool Network
Back To School Swim Party

Monday, August 20 11am-3pm
Decatur Surf Club
3180 Sandcreek Rd

$2.50/guest

RSVP to Sue: sj.bishop@sbcglobal.net

Rock Springs Field Trip

2007-08-12T13:02:00.000-03:00

"Wetlands"
$1.50/studentField trip intended for ages 10 and older
September 12th12n-3pm
Picnic lunch at the pavilion at 12pm Educational program at 1pm
(old shoes, pants and old shirt a must!)
A towel, change of clothes and garbage bag recommended!
Contact Maureen to register: obriens61@insightbb.com

Band Opportunity

2007-08-08T08:55:00.000-03:00

Homeschoolers are invited to join St. Pat's Band. Sessions are Monday and Friday mornings throughout the school year. First year instrumentalists meet 7:15am-7:55am for lessons and practice. Intermediate students meet 8am-8:40am for lessons and ensemble.

Band Director, Tom Miller and Millikin University music education students work together with students to assure each student's understanding and progression. Approximately 12 homeschooled students are currently enjoying music education through this unique opportunity. Mr. Miller allows students to remain in the band into their high school years.

The fee is $100/semester with adjusted rates for multiple siblings. This is about $3.50/lesson.

For more information, contact: Tom Miller at tmiller@dps61.org

If your child is interested in "testing" a few instruments, or if you have specific questions, the band director is willing to meet with you by appointment, before August 30th.

Announcing....

2007-08-07T15:21:00.000-03:00

Home School Arts Program

"Through the use of Classical and Christian music we focus on develping a fresh, dynamic awareness and application of personal faith...In a Christian setting, we present opportunities to build the skills that will equip students for life...Classes will culminate in a separate Home School Arts Program Recital in May. Each class will learn and perform a Liturgical worship style dance; in addition ages 5 and up will perform a classical Mini-Ballet Production. Family Discounts on multiple classes and financial assistance are available."

CLASSES: PRE-BALLET

age 3-4 1/2 $28/month

BALLET I

age 5-7 $30/month

(age 5 by Aug. 31)

BALLET II

age 8-10 $30/month

(age 8 by Aug. 31)

TEEN BALLET

age 11 and up $30/month

Contact: Dance Centre at 877-TURN (8876)

Swimming Lessons Fall 2007

2007-08-06T22:23:00.000-03:00

A six week session of swimming lessons will begin on Monday, September 10th at the YMCA. The lessons will be September 10, 17, 24 and October 1, 8 & 15. They begin at 2pm and last for 45 minutes. Cost is $30.00 per child. You can pre-register or arrive a few minutes early on the first day of classes and register then. All homeschoolers are welcome. If anyone has questions they are welcome to contact Stacey Hoadley .

Book Talk

2007-08-04T09:06:00.000-03:00

Rebecca Caudill Book Group at Decatur Public Library

The Rebecca Caudill Young Reader’s Book Award is given annually in Illinois to a book voted most outstanding for grades four through eight. Students in participating Illinois school & public libraries may vote for this award. All homeschoolers with library cards can participate through the Decatur Public library.

20 books have been nominated for next year’s award. In order to vote, students must read at least 4 books, and the votes must be submitted by February of 2008. The winner is announced in March of each year. Please visit http://www.rcyrba.org/ to find out more about the award.

The Decatur Public Library will host monthly book discussion groups, lasting about an hour, on Wednesday afternoons and Thursday evenings in the Children’s Auditorium. In order to participate, students sign up, and then read the designated books. All students old enough to discuss the books may participate, but the reading level is 4th grade and up, and only those in grades four through eight may vote in February.

Book Discussion Schedule:
Wednesdays Thursdays
3:30 pm 7:00pm

September Code Talker: A Novel About the Navajo Marines of World War Two - Bruchac 9/26 & 9/27

October The Misadventure of Maude March, or
Trouble Rides a Fast Horse – Couloumbis 10/24 & 10/25

November The Schwa Was Here - Shusterman 11/28 & 11/29

December MVP*-*Magellan Voyage Project – Evans 12/12 & 12/13

January Yankee Girl - Rodman 1/23 & 1/24

February The Ruins of Gorlan – Flanagan 2/27 & 2/28

March Listening for Lions – Whelan 3/26 & 3/27

April Winner of the 2008 Award

if we have read the winner, we’ll vote on the last book for 4/23 & 4/24

To sign up, call the Children’s Dept. at 424-2900 ext. 5, or email Sue Bishop at sbishop@decatur.lib.il.us.

We’ll need –
· names and grades of your students
· your email address, phone number, and day (Wed or Thur)

August 6th....Mark Your Calendar!

2007-08-02T13:09:00.000-03:00

Homeschool Extreme Adventure

Mon. Aug. 6th 6pm-8pm

Decatur Public Library

This event will showcase most all of the programs, organizations, clubs and groups available to home school families. We will feature sports teams, drama clubs, cooperative groups, 4H clubs, girl and boy scouts, civil air patrol, support groups, Book It with Pizza Hut, Six Flags reading program, art classes, YMCA, and much MORE!This is free of charge and open to the public.

Come see all the options open to your school this year, meet other families, see what curriculum is available 9though not for sale that night) and get some freebies!

Dads will want to join in this EXTREME ADVENTURE and to help with the kids while mom gets her year flying to new heights with this explosion of information! There will be plenty of things for kids to view and help decide what interests them, so we'll see you there.

Questions can be directed to lorinelson@insightbb.com

Directions from north: Take highway 51 into Decatur, business route, turn left on Eldorado, go to the 4th light and turn right(east)-Martin Luther King Jr- and go to the next light ad turn right, the library is just ahead on the left .

Decatur Area Co-op Registration

2007-07-07T08:08:00.000-03:00

The Decatur Area Cooperative is currently accepting registration for classes which begin September 7, 2007. All registration information can be accessed through the Decatur Area Homeschool Network.

Registration closes August 22, 2007

Homeschool Burnout

2007-05-12T13:31:00.000-03:00

Our own list member, Denise, at Let's Play Math posted Homeschooling Burnout: 10 Tips for Coping. Thanks for some great ideas for re-looking at our days, Denise.

How do you know if you're burned out? Some symptoms include: a lack of patience, a lack of appetite OR overeating, overreacting to minor issues, and making irrational decisions. I think I've been burned out on occasion!

I'd like to chime in with Denise on some strategies to battle burnout:

(these are listed in no particular order)

1. Find an outside activity for yourself and the kids: a family nature walk or gardening day. If your kids are old enough, maybe you'd prefer a meditaitve walk alone, while they take a bike ride with dad. Or send them out to Tree School so you can relax on your deck and enjoy the sounds of nature vs. the sound of "Mommm"! Get fresh air and out of your house.

2. Once everyone has had some fresh air and exercised a bit, make a pitcher of your favorite drink: ice tea or lemonade? Allow yourself and your kids to take two hours of "alone time" with their beverage. Mom may choose to read one of those books piled next to her bed, or flip through a magazine or catalog, or talk to a supportive friend on the phone. Give the kids some ideas to use this time creatively......give them the digital camera to capture some nature photos, challenge them to a photo contest, make some scrapbooking pages.

3. Find a family service project and take a day away from school to serve others. Once we see "how good we have it", we're more open to recommit to our educational opportunities.

4. If you're not getting together with other homeschool families regularly, find reasons to share learning time outside of your regular academic schedule. Find a substitute teacher for a day or join a co-op in your area.

5. Engage learning modalities which do not require mom time: videos online, supplemental DVD's for textbooks, audio-visual curricular lectures and lessons, and online tutorials.

6. Maybe you have read, changing the behavior and response of others around you, begins with a change in your own heart and words.

7. You can't be serious about everything. Even catastrophes make family memories. Laugh more with your kids! And for those of us in the midst of adolescent angst, Try to Appreciate Those Teen Years.

8. Tackle the clutter and give yourself a Learning Space Make Over. Or implement just a few organizational strategies each month. Can you find the books you need in your house? It also helps to make a library corner....ask anyone who has spent a whole morning just looking for the books they need that day. Sometimes physical and mental clutter, clutters our hearts.

9. Talk to other moms about how they cope with burnout or read about the Seven Habits of Highly Effective Homeschooling. The authors of this blog series admit they do not always succeed at these habits, but sharing experiences and supporting one another goes a long way!

10. Don't re-invent the wheel. Use web resources ... it's not cheating. Honest! You can also find web resources to Homeschool for Free, if financial stress adds to your burnout.

11. Take a school vacation....no not a vacation away from school (although I'm very much in favor of that too!); make the vacation count as school. Here's an example of family weekend school or take a unit study vacation. Or find a week long school camp in your city. It's a change of routine and venue and FUN!

12. And last, but NEVER least, pray this special Homeschool Mom Prayer. (filling in your own special situation.

Musical Opportunities For Homeschoolers

2007-05-01T14:11:00.000-03:00

Tuesday, May 1st; 4:30pm

St. Patrick Church on Eldorado,

near the Civic Center

Millikin Children/Youth Choir Program

and St. Pat's Youth Band

Area homeschooled kids

These are your friends or future friends!

Spring concert AND a place to talk directly to the choir and music directors

about registering your child for the 2007-2008 school year or music summer camp.

Children K-18 (many of them home educated) will perform a wide variety of music, from Broadway and Movie music to Folksongs and Artsongs. Receive information about becoming a part of these programs, and the upcoming "Summer Sings" Summer Choir Camp.

This is a free concert!

Questions?

Email kathy@saenz.com

Homeschool Bowling

2007-04-15T09:31:00.000-03:00

Homeschool bowling is being extended through summer! We meet on the first and third Mondays of the month, at Pla Mor Lanes (on 22nd st), from 1:30 - 3:30 (come anytime). The games are $1.50 per child/per game (or adult!) with no extra shoe rental! It's a great deal! Play as many or as few games as you like! There is no need to call ahead either, just show up on the correct Monday and tell Amy (the lady at the shoe counter) that you are bowling with homeschoolers!

Herald and Review Article on Today's Front Page

2007-04-14T09:45:00.000-03:00

Decatur Area Cooperative Offers a Little Extra to Homeschoolers

DECATUR - Maureen O'Brien's eldest daughter attended traditional school, and O'Brien was stunned when she had to ask permission to take her to the orthodontist and provide proof afterward that it's where they'd really gone. "I'm her mother," O'Brien said. The three younger O'Brien children, Kaleigh, Kevin and Kiernan, are homeschooled. Now, the family can take off-season trips, and the kids can pursue their studies at their own speed.

And thanks to the Decatur Area Cooperative, homeschooled kids can take enrichment classes in areas their parents may not have the expertise to teach. Kathy Saenz grew up listening to her parents speak Spanish at home, she said. It was a natural transition for her to teach Spanish for the cooperative, while her three boys, Jacob, Michael and Christopher, can take classes in everything from art to science to chess from others.

Not all the teachers are homeschooling parents, either. When one of the parents has expertise in a subject - such as Saenz has in Spanish or Denise Gaskins, who teaches math - that parent is hired to teach the once-a-week enrichment course. But when no parent is available, the group hires someone else. Guitar and vocal music, for example, is taught by Melissa Miller of Millikin University. Gaskins' daughters Deborah and Christine hold black belts in karate, so they taught a class in that skill.

Each semester is only 12 weeks long. Kelly Ramirez, who organized the co-op in September, said that was due to families being so busy during the Christmas season. They wanted to finish their first semester before December and decided the spring semester should be the same length. Classes meet on Fridays, and the students can choose up to three classes.

The classes are not meant to replace parents' lessons, cautioned Gaskins."You can't drop your kid off and say, 'Now I don't have to teach this,' " she said. A class a week for 12 weeks is simply not enough time to cover a subject thoroughly, she said. These classes are meant only as a supplement to academics or further exploration of skills and interests.

Some of the parents, O'Brien said, belong to other, informal cooperatives in which parents who are good at a subject teach others' children. This cooperative, by contrast, charges tuition, pays the teachers and has an organized schedule.

They even have a written policy. "Homeschooled kids are just like other kids," said Ramirez. "Sometimes you have problems with behavior. "The policy includes expectations for parents and students, standards of conduct based on biblical passages and a list of consequences for offenses against the policy. Parents are expected to pitch in as volunteers.

Homeschooling can be expensive, O'Brien said, because usually one parent stays home to teach, like she did, giving up his or her career to devote time to the children. Families have to pay for children's sports and extracurricular activities, which are far less expensive when sponsored by a traditional school program. The cooperative helps out by providing some of the group activities.

The upside of homeschooling, Saenz said, is lessons can be tailored to the child. She teaches world and American history together, she said, rather than separately, as they do in most schools."When we're talking about American history, we talk about what was going on in the world, so they see it's all connected; it's linear," she said.

Homeschooled student Michael Miller, 12, said that sort of thing is what he likes about homeschooling."When you're doing well, you can keep going forward," he said. "When you have trouble, you can slow down and go over it again.

"Valerie Wells can be reached at vwells@herald-review.com or 421-7982.

Field Trip for Future Engineers!

2007-04-12T17:00:00.000-03:00

Decatur area homeschoolers have been invited to a tour andpresentation of the company Airfloat in Decatur. The tour isscheduled for Wednesday, May 9th at 2:30, for about 1 1/2-2 hours. They have limited the group to Jr. High age and older with a maximumof 50 including parents. There will be an engineering presentation, general shop tour, fabrication/welding, laser cutting, and the CEOwill also give a brief overview of his job. If you are interested inattending this tour, please RSVP with Becky at Arndtwe@aol.com and indicate how many are coming and their ages. This is a rareopportunity for our group!

Why Homeschool: Carnival of Homeschooling - Week 53 - the Anniversary edition

2007-01-02T20:48:00.000-03:00

Why Homeschool: Carnival of Homeschooling - Week 53 - the Anniversary edition

January 2007 Calendar of Events

2006-12-11T08:09:00.000-03:00

January 3rd: Public Skating 12-1pm; $2.00.
Homeschool Ice Skating; 2-3pm at the Decatur Civic Center; $2.50 includes skate rental.

January 5th: Decatur Area Cooperative classes RESUME; 12:30pm-3:30pm: contact Kelly for information at KelRamirez@aol.com

January 8th: Decatur Area Homeschool Network's Bowling; 1:30 p.m.-3:30p.m. $1.50/game and no fee for shoes.....awesome deal. No need to call for reservations. See you there!

January 10th: Public Skating 12-1pm; $2.00.
Homeschool Ice Skating; 2-3pm at the Decatur Civic Center; $2.50 includes skate rental.

January 13th: Decatur Area Cooperative classes; 12:30pm-3:30pm: contact Kelly for information at KelRamirez@aol.com

January 17th: Public Skating 12-1pm; $2.00.
Homeschool Ice Skating; 2-3pm at the Decatur Civic Center; $2.50 includes skate rental.

January 19th: Decatur Area Cooperative classes; 12:30pm-3:30pm: contact Kelly for information at KelRamirez@aol.com

January 22nd: Decatur Area Homeschool Network's Bowling; 1:30 p.m.-3:30p.m. $1.50/game and no fee for shoes.....awesome deal. No need to call for reservations. See you there!

January 24th: Public Skating 12-1pm; $2.00.
Homeschool Ice Skating; 2-3pm at the Decatur Civic Center; $2.50 includes skate rental.

January 24th: Wednesday Rebecca Caudill Book Club Discussion: Hachiko Waits; Children's Department@ the Decatur Public Library 3:30pm. Please e-mail Sue Bishop for registration information; Questions: sbishop@decatur.lib.il.us

January 25th: Thursday Rebecca Caudill Book Club Discussion: Hachiko Waits; Children's Department@ the Decatur Public Library 7:00pm. Please e-mail Sue Bishop for registration information; Questions: sbishop@decatur.lib.il.us

January 31st: Public Skating 12-1pm; $2.00.
Homeschool Ice Skating; 2-3pm at the Decatur Civic Center; $2.50 includes skate rental.

Have A Blessed Christmas!

2006-12-10T10:15:00.000-03:00

Wishing you all a holy and safe Christmas season.

See you in January!

Decatur Area Cooperative Learning: Spring 2007

2006-12-09T10:27:00.000-03:00

The registration deadline has been extended for the Spring semester DAC classes due to the power outages and communication difficulties. The deadline was originally Dec 8th, but we are extending that until Monday, December 18th. Contact Kelly to register at KelRamirez@aol.com

Classes include:

12:30pm-1:25pm

Advanced Math Club

Introduction to Karate and Self Defense

Elementary Art

Intermediate Chess- Tactics

Drama

Speech

1:30pm-2:25pm

Elementary Math Club

Sign Language I

Spanish

Beginning Guitar

Art II

2:30pm-3:25pm

Pre-Algebra

Sign Language II

Music Exploration

Science Fun

Karate and Self Defense

Strategy Game Fun

November Calendar of Events

2006-10-28T00:30:00.000-03:00

November 1st: Homeschool Ice Skating; 2-3pm at the Decatur Civic Center; $2.50 includes skate rental.

November 3rd: Decatur Area Cooperative classes; 12:30pm-3:30pm: contact Kelly for information at KelRamirez@aol.com

November 6th: Decatur Area Homeschool Network's Bowling; 1:30 p.m.-3:30p.m. $1.50/game and no fee for shoes.....awesome deal. No need to call for reservations. See you there!

November 8th: Homeschool Ice Skating; 2-3pm at the Decatur Civic Center; $2.50 includes skate rental.

November 10th: Decatur Area Cooperative classes; 12:30pm-3:30pm: contact Kelly for information at KelRamirez@aol.com

November 15th: Homeschool Ice Skating; 2-3pm at the Decatur Civic Center; $2.50 includes skate rental.

November 17th: Decatur Area Cooperative classes; 12:30pm-3:30pm: contact Kelly for information at KelRamirez@aol.com

November 20th: Decatur Area Homeschool Network's Bowling; 1:30 p.m.-3:30p.m. $1.50/game and no fee for shoes.....awesome deal. No need to call for reservations. See you there!

November 29th: Richland Ballet Presents 2006 Nutcracker; 10 – 11:10 a.m. or 1 – 2:10 p.m. $2 per student/Chaperone

November 29th: Homeschool Ice Skating; 2-3pm at the Decatur Civic Center; $2.50 includes skate rental.

November 29th: Wednesday Rebecca Caudill Book Club Discussion: Chasing Vemeer; Children's Department@ the Decatur Public Library 3:30pm. Please e-mail Sue Bishop for registration information; Questions: sbishop@decatur.lib.il.us

November 30th: Thursday Rebecca Caudill Book Club Discussion: Chasing Vemeer; Children's Department@ the Decatur Public Library 7:00pm. Please e-mail Sue Bishop for registration information; Questions: sbishop@decatur.lib.il.us

October Calendar of Events

2006-09-25T15:16:00.000-03:00

October 5th: Decatur Area Cooperative classes; 12:30pm-3:30pm: contact Kelly for information at KelRamirez@aol.com

October 13th: Decatur Area Cooperative classes; 12:30pm-3:30pm: contact Kelly for information at KelRamirez@aol.com

October 16th: Decatur Area Homeschool Network's Bowling Begins! 1:30 p.m.-3:30p.m. $1.50/game and no fee for shoes.....awesome deal. No need to call for reservations. See you there!

October 20th: Decatur Area Cooperative classes; 12:30pm-3:30pm: contact Kelly for information at KelRamirez@aol.com

October 25th: Homeschool Ice Skating; 2-3pm at the Decatur Civic Center; $2.50 includes skate rental.

October 25th: Wednesday Rebecca Caudill Book Club Discussion: Ida B: and Her Plans to Maximize Fun, Avoid Disaster, and (Possibly) Save the World by Hannigan; Children's Department@ the Decatur Public Library 3:30pm. Please e-mail Sue Bishop for registration information; Questions: sbishop@decatur.lib.il.us

October 26th: Thursday Rebecca Caudill Book Club Discussion: Ida B: and Her Plans to Maximize Fun, Avoid Disaster, and (Possibly) Save the World by Hannigan; Children's Department@ the Decatur Public Library 7:00pm. Please e-mail Sue Bishop for registration information; Questions: sbishop@decatur.lib.il.us

October 27th: Decatur Area Cooperative classes; 12:30pm-3:30pm: contact Kelly for information at KelRamirez@aol.com

September Calendar of Events

2006-08-30T17:22:00.000-03:00

September 1st: all new individuals interested in joining the beginning instrumental band are meeting at St. Patrick’s church in the cafeteria at 7:45 am with the band director. Questions: Kathy Saenz kathy@saenz.com

September 5th: New School Year Welcome Picnic! Forsyth Park pavillion 11:30-2:30pm; bring your own picnic lunch. Get to know other homeschool moms & pick up games for kids: Questions: Kathy Saenz kathy@saenz.com

September 8th: First day of new Co-op classes; St Thomas Parish Center; Questions: Kelly Ramirez KelRamirez@aol.com

September 9th: Millikin Children's Choir Auditions; Questions: Beth Holmes holmeswork@juno.com

September 27th: Wednesday Rebecca Caudill Book Club Discussion: Gregor the Overlander by Collins; Children's Department@ the Decatur Public Library 3:30pm. Please e-mail Sue Bishop for registration information; Questions: sbishop@decatur.lib.il.us

September 28th: Thursday Rebecca Caudill Book Club Discussion: Gregor the Overlander by Collins; Children's Department@ the Decatur Public Library 7:00pm. Please e-mail Sue Bishop for registration information; Questions: sbishop@decatur.lib.il.us

New Cooperative Learning Opportunity

2006-08-04T17:52:00.000-03:00

Watch for upcoming announcements about the newest cooperative learning group for the 2006 - 2007 school year. Some of the featured classes will be karate, sign language, drama, math classes, and chess. This site will be updated as more details are finalized. Contact is Kelly Ramirez at KelRamirez@aol.com with questions.

August Calendar of Events

2006-08-03T14:12:00.000-03:00

Month of August:

Millikin University Children's Choir invites homeschooled students to participate in their Fall Semester music program. Contact: Kathy Saenz at k.saenz@insightbb.com or Beth Holmes at holmeswork@juno.com for more program information. Call Millikin Prep Dept. (Carol) at 425-4698 to schedule a placement interview.

Register for the Rebecca Caudill Book Club for 2006-2007; Contact is Sue Bishop @ sbishop@decatur.lib.il.us . She will need the names and grades of your students.

July Calendar of Events

2006-07-01T18:44:00.000-03:00

July 1st - 13th: Visit Decatur Area Homeschool Network website and complete poll if you are interested in participating in co-op activities for the 2006 - 2007 school year.

Month of July: Register for the Rebecca Caudill Book Club for 2006-2007; Contact is Sue Bishop @ sbishop@decatur.lib.il.us . She will need the names and grades of your students.

June Calendar of Events

2006-06-01T14:18:00.000-03:00

June 5th - 9th: Millikin Children's Choir Camp

June 7th: Decatur Youth Band Summer program begins

June 8th: A Day at the Zoo
Scovill Zoo@ 11am,
Bring a lunch & meet at the picnic tables near the concession stand inside the zoo.

June 9th: Pizza Hut "Book It" deadline
call 1-800-426-6548 (9 am-4 pm CT)

http://www.bookitprogram.com/enrollment/homeschool.asp

Thinking About Starting Your Own Blog?

2006-06-01T08:26:00.000-03:00

Trinity Prep School is hosting The Seven Habits of Highly Effective Homeschool Bloggers. Learn what makes an effective blogger. She is hosting this project especially for all those who are new to blogging or considering the idea of starting their own blog. As a veteran blogger, what is your best advice? What did you wish you knew at the beginning of your blogging attempts?

Find out more at my hosting website

May Calendar of Events

2006-05-01T14:17:00.000-03:00

May 1st: Last bowling before summer: I don't need pre-registration this time! For even more fun we're doing a cosmic bowl with the lights out and glo in the dark balls! The games are $1.50 each. They are not charging us shoe rental. See you at Pla-Mor Lanes: 1pm-4pm. Come when you can and leave when you must.

May 2nd: Millikin University Children's Concert @ St. Patrick's Church on Eldorado St. near Main St. (just east of the Civic Center) . Also hear opportunities for instrumental instruction and participation in band.

May 3rd: The Harvest Bread Tour in Bloomington, IL. There are two time slots available: 1pm and 1:45pm. Contact Kathy at kathy@saenz.com

May 3rd : Chess Club at the Decatur Public Library on the 2nd floor from 1-3 p.m.

May 4th: Author, Roland Smith, meeting with the Homeschool Book Club at The Decatur Public Library.

May 5th: Homeschool Open Swim at the Greater Decatur YMCA; 1:30pm-4pm$2/swimmer

May 10th : Chess Club at the Decatur Public Library on the 2nd floor from 1-3 p.m.

May 12th: Homeschool Open Swim at the Greater Decatur YMCA; 1:30pm-4pm$2/swimmer

May 17th : Chess Club at the Decatur Public Library on the 2nd floor from 1-3 p.m.

May 18-20, 2006: Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, Illinois
www.iche.org for complete details

May 19th: Homeschool Open Swim at the Greater Decatur YMCA; 1:30pm-4pm$2/swimmer

May 24th : Chess Club at the Decatur Public Library on the 2nd floor from 1-3 p.m.

May 26th: Homeschool Open Swim at the Greater Decatur YMCA; 1:30pm-4pm$2/swimmer

Month of May: Register for the Rebecca Caudill Book Club for 2006-2007; Contact is Sue Bishop
sbishop@decatur.lib.il.us . She will need the names and grades of your students.

2006-04-26T22:27:00.000-03:00

Mr. Dreier of the Department Of Natural Resources taught us all about fishing!

April Calendar of Events

2006-03-30T16:51:00.000-03:00

April 3rd: Decatur Library Homeschool Book Group; 5th-12th grade (must be pre-registered) 1pm-2pm @ Decatur Public Library upstairs.

April 3rd: Bowling at Play-Mor Lanes; 1-4pContact: JenLane27@insightbb.com to reserve lanes and shoe sizeThe games are $1.50 each. They are not charging us shoe rental.

April 5th : Chess Club at the Decatur Public Library from 1-3 p.m.

April 6th: Decatur Library Homeschool Book Group; 3rd-4th grade (must be pre-registered) 1pm-2pm @ Decatur Public Library upstairs.

April 7th: Homeschool Open Swim at the Greater Decatur YMCA; 1:30pm-4pm
$2/swimmer;

April 12th : Chess Club at the Decatur Public Library from 1-3 p.m.

April 17th: Decatur Library Homeschool Book Group; 5th-12th grade (must be pre-registered) 1pm-2pm @ Decatur Public Library upstairs.

April 17th: Bowling at Play-Mor Lanes; 1-4pContact: JenLane27@insightbb.com to reserve lanes and shoe sizeThe games are $1.50 each. They are not charging us shoe rental.

April 19th : Chess Club at the Decatur Public Library from 1-3 p.m.

April 20th: Decatur Library Homeschool Book Group; 3rd-4th grade (must be pre-registered) 1pm-2pm @ Decatur Public Library upstairs.

April 21st: Homeschool Open Swim at the Greater Decatur YMCA; 1:30pm-4pm
$2/swimmer;

April 26th: Fishing Clinic for the Decatur Area Homeschool Network on at Fairview Park from 1:30pm - 3:30pm. Pre-registration required. Contact obriens61@insightbb.com
April 26th : Chess Club at the Decatur Public Library from 1-3 p.m. CANCELLED DUE TO FISHING CLINIC

April 28th: Homeschool Open Swim at the Greater Decatur YMCA; 1:30pm-4pm
$2/swimmer;

April: Reminder for I.C.H.E. Homeschool Convention registrationMay 18-20, 2006 Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, IllinoisGo to http://www.iche.org/ for details.

Rock Springs Field Trip - March 22, 2006

2006-03-27T12:37:00.000-03:00

Book Club Discussion Guides:

2006-03-26T20:12:00.000-03:00

Hi Kids and Moms:

Just as a reminder, all book club participants received a discussion guide with their book. Have you started your book yet?

In case you'd like to get together with your girlfriends this summer for a summer book club, Anne of Green Gables has an online discussion guide. This is a perfect book for girls 4th-8th grades.

And so as not to leave out the guys, The Bronze Bow also has a discussion guide available. I've held mini-summer book clubs several times. I let my kids invite their neighborhood friends and church friends. Sometimes we've met at my house, sometimes the Mt. Zion Library. It's a great opportunity to meet with friends you don't see as much during the school year.

Maureen
http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/TRINITYPREPSCHOOL

Fishing Clinic at Fairview Park

2006-03-21T13:02:00.000-03:00

Registration has been closed for this clinic. All 35 slots filled up quickly. If enough people still want to do it, maybe a second coordinator could step forward and I will assist in making the contact with the Department of Natural Resources to set up a 2nd event.

Maureen
obriens61@insightbb.com

March Calendar of Events

2006-03-01T10:18:00.000-03:00

March 1st: Ice Skating at the Civic Center; 2-3 p.m.
$2.50/skater includes skate rental
March 1st-9th: Sign up the the Decatur Library Homeschool Book Group begins. Contact: Sue @ sbishop@decatur.lib.il.us Details at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Decatur_hs_network/message/557

March 2nd-30th: Register for Harvest Bread field trip: May 3rd or 4th @ 1pm in Bloomington, Illinois. Contact Kathy @ kathy@saenz.com to sign up/ Complete details at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Decatur_hs_network/message/557
March 6th: Bowling at Play-Mor Lanes; 1-4p
Contact: JenLane27@insightbb.com to reserve lanes and shoe size
The games are $1.50 each. They are not charging us shoe rental.
March 8th: Ice Skating at the Civic Center; 2-3pm; $2.50/skater includes skate rental
March 9th: Deadline to sign up for Decatur Library Homeschool Book Group, (5th grade-12th grade) For more information go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Decatur_hs_network/message/558 .
Contact: Susan Bishop sbishop@decatur.lib.il.us
March 10th: Homeschool Open Swim at the Greater Decatur YMCA; 1:30p.m.-4p.m. $2/swimmer .

March 10th-11th: Chicago-area Homeschool Conference at the Sheraton Chicago Northwest in Arlington Heights. Website provides detailed information.
http://www.homeeducatorsconference.org/index.html

March 11: 9:30 - 12:30 - The Second Saturday Book Store at the Decatur Public Library.
Most books will be $ .50 - $1.00

March 15th : Chess Club at the Decatur Public Library from 1-3 p.m.

March 17th: Homeschool Open Swim at the Greater Decatur YMCA; 1:30p.m.-4p.m. $2/swimmer

March 20th; Bowling at Play-Mor Lanes; 1-4pm
Contact: JenLane27@insightbb.com to reserve lanes and shoe size

March 22: Rock Springs: Details at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Decatur_hs_network/message/558

March 24th: Homeschool Open Swim at the Greater Decatur YMCA; 1:30p.m.-4p.m. $2/swimmer
March 25th: Career Day -Clinton Christian Home Educators group is hosting a "Career Day"event this month on Saturday March 25 from 2-4pm at Clinton's FirstChristian Church (FCC), 200 East Main in Clinton. More details at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Decatur_hs_network/message/632

March 28th: Decatur Park District Open House;Tuesday, 4-7pm at the DISC. For further questions, please call 422-5911

March 29th : Chess Club at the Decatur Public Library from 1-3 p.m.
March 30th: Reminder for I.C.H.E. Homeschool Convention registration
May 18-20, 2006Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, Illinois
Go to www.iche.org for details.
March 31st: Homeschool Open Swim at the Greater Decatur YMCA; 1:30pm-4pm
$2/swimmer

Check back for updates.

Pizza Hut "Book It" Program

2006-02-28T14:15:00.000-03:00

It's time to enroll in the BookIt program for next year.
You can call 1-800-426-6548 (9 am-4 pm CTMon-Fri) or
visit:Main link:http://www.bookitprogram.com/
Homeschool enrollment link:http://www.bookitprogram.com/enrollment/homeschool.asp

Book of Centuries

2006-02-26T23:27:00.000-03:00

Have you heard of making a Book of Centuries in homeschooling circles? It's a fun educational project for the whole family. No way is the right way. The best way is to just get started!

For further information and examples:

Trinity Prep School
Simply Charlotte Mason
The Tanglewood School

Worksheet Maker

2006-02-25T08:41:00.000-03:00

Download WorksheetMaker at http://www.ikodeko.com/worksheetmaker/wsm.php

This is a free download with an upgrade available for a fee. The free basic version creates math worksheets at the touch of a finger. If your child needs extra practice or review, add this resource to your academic toolbox!