What has worked this year...and what hasn't

No one likes to admit defeat, but sometimes you have to acknowledge that things don't work, to be able to go forward. Today I'll be sharing what I have loved about this year's curriculum, and what isn't working. Next week I'll share what I am planning to change for next year!

What's working:
The Playful Pioneers: Here you can find my previous post all about this wonderful curriculum. Although I am changing things up, it DID work for this year. I loved it so much, that when it's time for Baby Girl, and Baby #3 to start school, I will be reusing it!

A Reason For Handwriting: You can click here for a more in depth review. Little Man's handwriting has come a long way from the beginning of the year, and it's mostly thanks to this curriculum. Even though we only do it once or twice a week, it has really helped Little Man. He loves the coloring sheet that comes with it, and it is probably his favorite subject of the day.

Explode the Code: It took a while for it to grow on me, but Little Man's reading has really developed using this curriculum. I still think there are a few changes I would make, and it isn't Little Man's favorite thing, but it has worked in terms of his reading level.


What isn't working:


Basically it's just one thing-Math I hate to admit defeat but here it is:

Saxon Math 1: I think I started on the wrong foot when we chose to do Math1 instead of the primer. It had worked well for my siblings, but Little Man was a bit younger than they were, since his birthday is in September. The teacher book is pretty intense with the amount that the parent is involved, and there is normally activities, drills, AND a worksheet. I have broken these up to help him not get frustrated or tired out, but it's made for slow going through the curriculum. We will finish maybe half of the course work by May. Little Man has been successful in understanding the concepts, but I just don't feel like this is the right fit for his personality, or how our life is right now (young toddler, and about to add a newborn). Stay tuned to see what I've chosen for next year!

I want to add that just because something works or doesn't work for me and one of my children, doesn't mean it will be the same for you! I just want to share my experience with you, to hopefully help you with your own curriculum choices. For my mom, and many others, Saxon 1-3 was the perfect choice, but for me I just don't feel like it's been as successful as it should be.