Today while vacuuming the Warrior Princesses (WP) worked on their math lessons. They were very surprised and proud of themselves, they did not need mommy's help. They have used several resources to understand the basics of math, including living math, that I do not need to look over their shoulders. I explained to them that they need to learn to work independently, this allows me to do other things. Like cleaning. I overheard them praising each others work. Cute.
After math we all folded up clothes. We each had a pile. Wow! These girls are getting great at folding! I remember when they were 5 & 6 trying to help mommy. The clothes would be rolled or asymmetrically folded. Lol. I never refolded, instead I would praise them and put the clothes away just as they were. Now their folding skills have improved. :O) Every Thursday morning they wake to launder the clothes. Daddy and I showed them how to sort, how to set the settings for each load, how to determine the water level for each load, how to measure the detergent for each load, and how to operate the dryer. At the end the day all of the clothes and linen are laundered. Woo, I get so much work (Smell Goods) done, because of those little helpers.
One of the lessons today was watching mommy cross-stitch. WP Z wants to learn how to cross-stitch. Now that she is getting older I see her playtime turning into "things I like to do". So I am looking for a beginner's pattern for her. I started cross-stitching when I was 12. She is much younger than I was, so I am glad to see her interested. Crafting is her thing.
They are napping at the moment. WP Z has been preparing for First Night. First Night is a huge New Year's Eve celebration, and it centers around the Fine Arts. She has been rehearsing this electrifying dance piece for 2 1/2 hours for several days. One of her teachers at the theatre had this brilliant idea to have a large group of actors and dancers (all students) perform a choreographed dance to Brand New Day (The Wiz). It is HOT! I get chills watching them practice it. Anyway, she is napping, which she normally does not do during the day, but today she said, "I have never been so happy to take a nap." I told her that on January 1st I will not bother her, I will let her sleep. They have to perform this number 4 times on the 31st. WP T is napping.... well because big sister is. Lol.
We are reading and discussing Little Women. Truly a novel that transcends generations. I never really could capture what that meant when I heard others say that. Now that we are reading it, I've got it. From the 1st chapter the WP had their favorite sister.
Yesterday I started reading A Golden Age, a novel written by Tahmima Anam. Already I sense this is going to be a book that will be hard for me to put down for a minute. This novel was recommended by Moon Lit Press, and I'm glad I found it.
As I mentioned above one of my interest is cross-stitching. This year I purchased an artist's original drawing of Bob Marley. The artist's drawing was scanned into a cross-stitching program. The project is coming together. I will be finished by the end of 09' or sooner. That is my goal. Hmmm, maybe I should post pictures of the progress here.
So what have you been up to these last days of 2008?
Monday, December 29, 2008
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Miseducation
What is education? According to the book A Thomas Jefferson Education, education is classics, discussions, projects (application), and writing. Very simple. Right? Yes, but very challenging to do, especially when one starts to mix schooling with education. They are two different things. Unfortunately, many home-schooling families are starting to go down that path of schooling.
The other day the we were very excited about a lunch date with another home-schooling family. After lunch the children went to go have fun, and the mother and I remained at the dining room table to discuss...education. She brought to my attention the book A Thomas Jefferson Education (TJED) by author and founder of the George Wythe College, Oliver Van DeMille. The book is not solely about TJ, but the education that created some of the greatest leaders in history, and of TJ's mentor, George Wythe.
…George Wythe structured Jefferson’s curriculum around these simple items: classics, discussion, projects, writing. Nearly the whole Founding generation did the same, and the further we have moved from this simple formula, the worse our education has become. What we need to improve education is not more curriculum, but better education, and that comes from classics and mentors.”
Oliver Van DeMille, A Thomas Jefferson Education, 2nd Edition, pages 48-49 .
Education is not about how much one is forced to learn in a certain amount of time. Schooling is. Education is for a lifetime. Schooling isn't. Education is teaching your child how to become a leader in their own life, not teaching what and when to think, but for them to know how to think. Schooling creates followers. An educated child will continue to love learning until they are old.
TJED categorizes the three types of education: Conveyor Belt (factory mode, told what to think), Professional (told when to think, and dictates to Conveyor Belt), and Leadership (thinkers). STOP! Don't read any further! Did you take the time to click on the links to read about each type of education? Which type are you? Most are Conveyor Belts (as my sister(friend) would say, "Cattle!"), but it is never too late to be what you might have been. If you have children, you have the opportunity to rewrite the script.
Having a child learn a challenging subject at a very young age means nothing. Nothing, if the child cannot apply it. Nothing if the child cannot discuss it. Nothing if the child cannot understand the history of it. Force feeding information for regurgitation is not education.
One of the most significant differences between Thomas Jefferson Education and other classical styles of education, has to do with the belief that children learn differently at different ages. Thus, there are different phases for learning certain lessons.
Some of the greatest researchers in childhood behavior (Jean Piaget, Erik Erikson, and Dr. Raymond and Dorothy Moore) agree that children pushed academically at an early age tend to burn out early in adulthood, or long before. Young children do soak up learning like a sponge, but at what cost are children rushed into academic work too soon? A hate of learning is developed when children are forced to perform at a young age and blooms precisely at the time when non-pressured young minds have the potential to be the most curious and inquisitive! And if children of a very young age soak up knowledge so easily, shouldn't they be learning the most important lessons of love, work, and faith during their most formative years, rather than filling their heads with random facts and figures their minds are unable to yet comprehend?
Children normally are not mature enough for formal school programs until their senses, coordination, neurological development, and cognition are ready. Piagetian experiments have shown repeatedly that cognitive maturity may not come until close to age twelve. Interestingly, the ancient Orthodox Jews, known over the world for their brilliance, provided little or no formal schooling until after age twelve for girls and thirteen for boys when children were considered able to accept full responsibility for their actions.
Dr. Raymond and Dorothy Moore, The Successful Homeschool Family Handbook, page 44 .
TJED categorizes four phases of learning: Core Phase, age 0-8-a child “learns everything without knowing he is learning it, and in doing so passes little from the unconscious to the conscious, treading always in the paths of joy and love.” Maria Montessori . I attended a Montessori school, and at the age of 34 I know that the love of learning came from that experience. I am still in touch with my teacher! You will read this point when you click on Core Phase, but I want to put emphasis on it- The key to a successful Core Phase is constant interaction with the parents. There is no way around this. When I started home-schooling my children, mothers made (even now) this statement, "I don't know how you can stay home with your kids all day. I can't do it." It is so unfortunate when a mother cannot see the beauty and strength of being a mentor, a friend, and a play buddy for her child(ren). I am honored to be a mother and my children and I (and daddy) have so much fun learning, discussing, and just plain having fun. Love of Learning Phase, ages 8-12. Scholar Phase, ages 12-16. Depth Phase. Now it is time to apply, Mission Phase and Impact Phase. I smile wide when reading the mission and impact phases. I always carved out my own path from a youth, my future was always family and helping others. I smile wide because I did not have anything like TJED, it was implanted in my spirit. So, I know that there are many more out there who were submerged in the Conveyor Belt and Professional Education moving forward in their mission and impact phases.
The way that I am educating my daughters was verified during that lunch date. Did I need verification? No, because I am seeing positive fruit. But sometimes when you are standing alone (at least you think), it is good to know that something out there backs you up. Trust your heart, your feelings, and The Most High.
Before finishing this post I want to mention: TJED states that children still need to learn the basic principles of math, however, the concentration needs to be on reading the classics. For example, don't just teach the math concepts, go through the history of math and the great mathematicians. Generate a love for math! Discussions simply isn't talking about what a child reads, it is making connections. For example a classic is being read and an unfamiliar word pops up. Vocabulary time! The child should take the time to fine the definition. Finding that definition may lead to a new discovery. Take the time to explore that discovery. It may take sometime before returning to the initial classic being read. This is why Leadership Education isn't the easiest, it takes time to be educated. Writing. As an adult I use to regret not doing more writing as a youth. No more regrets. It is never too late to be what you might have been. Teach children a love for writing early. TJED states to start them off with something simple, What Did I Do Today, Thank You letters, etc. My warrior princesses love writing and they are always so proud of the finish product. Classics are defined as works that inspire greatness!
Related Links:
The Seven Keys of Great Education
Living Math
Living History
Grace Abounding ("black" classics through grammar)
Marcus Garvey School of Thought
Learning all the time!
The other day the we were very excited about a lunch date with another home-schooling family. After lunch the children went to go have fun, and the mother and I remained at the dining room table to discuss...education. She brought to my attention the book A Thomas Jefferson Education (TJED) by author and founder of the George Wythe College, Oliver Van DeMille. The book is not solely about TJ, but the education that created some of the greatest leaders in history, and of TJ's mentor, George Wythe.
…George Wythe structured Jefferson’s curriculum around these simple items: classics, discussion, projects, writing. Nearly the whole Founding generation did the same, and the further we have moved from this simple formula, the worse our education has become. What we need to improve education is not more curriculum, but better education, and that comes from classics and mentors.”
Oliver Van DeMille, A Thomas Jefferson Education, 2nd Edition, pages 48-49 .
Education is not about how much one is forced to learn in a certain amount of time. Schooling is. Education is for a lifetime. Schooling isn't. Education is teaching your child how to become a leader in their own life, not teaching what and when to think, but for them to know how to think. Schooling creates followers. An educated child will continue to love learning until they are old.
TJED categorizes the three types of education: Conveyor Belt (factory mode, told what to think), Professional (told when to think, and dictates to Conveyor Belt), and Leadership (thinkers). STOP! Don't read any further! Did you take the time to click on the links to read about each type of education? Which type are you? Most are Conveyor Belts (as my sister(friend) would say, "Cattle!"), but it is never too late to be what you might have been. If you have children, you have the opportunity to rewrite the script.
Having a child learn a challenging subject at a very young age means nothing. Nothing, if the child cannot apply it. Nothing if the child cannot discuss it. Nothing if the child cannot understand the history of it. Force feeding information for regurgitation is not education.
One of the most significant differences between Thomas Jefferson Education and other classical styles of education, has to do with the belief that children learn differently at different ages. Thus, there are different phases for learning certain lessons.
Some of the greatest researchers in childhood behavior (Jean Piaget, Erik Erikson, and Dr. Raymond and Dorothy Moore) agree that children pushed academically at an early age tend to burn out early in adulthood, or long before. Young children do soak up learning like a sponge, but at what cost are children rushed into academic work too soon? A hate of learning is developed when children are forced to perform at a young age and blooms precisely at the time when non-pressured young minds have the potential to be the most curious and inquisitive! And if children of a very young age soak up knowledge so easily, shouldn't they be learning the most important lessons of love, work, and faith during their most formative years, rather than filling their heads with random facts and figures their minds are unable to yet comprehend?
Children normally are not mature enough for formal school programs until their senses, coordination, neurological development, and cognition are ready. Piagetian experiments have shown repeatedly that cognitive maturity may not come until close to age twelve. Interestingly, the ancient Orthodox Jews, known over the world for their brilliance, provided little or no formal schooling until after age twelve for girls and thirteen for boys when children were considered able to accept full responsibility for their actions.
Dr. Raymond and Dorothy Moore, The Successful Homeschool Family Handbook, page 44 .
TJED categorizes four phases of learning: Core Phase, age 0-8-a child “learns everything without knowing he is learning it, and in doing so passes little from the unconscious to the conscious, treading always in the paths of joy and love.” Maria Montessori . I attended a Montessori school, and at the age of 34 I know that the love of learning came from that experience. I am still in touch with my teacher! You will read this point when you click on Core Phase, but I want to put emphasis on it- The key to a successful Core Phase is constant interaction with the parents. There is no way around this. When I started home-schooling my children, mothers made (even now) this statement, "I don't know how you can stay home with your kids all day. I can't do it." It is so unfortunate when a mother cannot see the beauty and strength of being a mentor, a friend, and a play buddy for her child(ren). I am honored to be a mother and my children and I (and daddy) have so much fun learning, discussing, and just plain having fun. Love of Learning Phase, ages 8-12. Scholar Phase, ages 12-16. Depth Phase. Now it is time to apply, Mission Phase and Impact Phase. I smile wide when reading the mission and impact phases. I always carved out my own path from a youth, my future was always family and helping others. I smile wide because I did not have anything like TJED, it was implanted in my spirit. So, I know that there are many more out there who were submerged in the Conveyor Belt and Professional Education moving forward in their mission and impact phases.
The way that I am educating my daughters was verified during that lunch date. Did I need verification? No, because I am seeing positive fruit. But sometimes when you are standing alone (at least you think), it is good to know that something out there backs you up. Trust your heart, your feelings, and The Most High.
Before finishing this post I want to mention: TJED states that children still need to learn the basic principles of math, however, the concentration needs to be on reading the classics. For example, don't just teach the math concepts, go through the history of math and the great mathematicians. Generate a love for math! Discussions simply isn't talking about what a child reads, it is making connections. For example a classic is being read and an unfamiliar word pops up. Vocabulary time! The child should take the time to fine the definition. Finding that definition may lead to a new discovery. Take the time to explore that discovery. It may take sometime before returning to the initial classic being read. This is why Leadership Education isn't the easiest, it takes time to be educated. Writing. As an adult I use to regret not doing more writing as a youth. No more regrets. It is never too late to be what you might have been. Teach children a love for writing early. TJED states to start them off with something simple, What Did I Do Today, Thank You letters, etc. My warrior princesses love writing and they are always so proud of the finish product. Classics are defined as works that inspire greatness!
Related Links:
The Seven Keys of Great Education
Living Math
Living History
Grace Abounding ("black" classics through grammar)
Marcus Garvey School of Thought
Learning all the time!
Monday, December 15, 2008
Recent Indie Buys-Yahzi Rose
The Warrior Princesses received their Wealth Knockers ($4 ea. $7 pair) the other day. Wealth Knockers? Ponytails designed by Kysha Mitchell of Yahzi Rose. 'Yahzi Rose has a new hair accessory that will add a bit of global flair to any boring ponytail. Made with Mudcloth cow-bone beads and\or Cowry Shells, the elastic comes in rainbow, white or metallic gold. In parts of Africa, cattle represents wealth and cowry shells stand for fertility & prosperity.'
What I like:
-The name.
-The cultural meaning.
-The way they look.
-The price.
If your princess has very thick hair, or very think locs like mine, you will need to wrap the hair accessory around smaller sections.
Loving this beautiful family!
Digging LOUDER!
What I like:
-The name.
-The cultural meaning.
-The way they look.
-The price.
If your princess has very thick hair, or very think locs like mine, you will need to wrap the hair accessory around smaller sections.
Loving this beautiful family!
Digging LOUDER!
Friday, December 12, 2008
Deception From the Food Industry
This is not new to most. Always good to stay on your toes.
Part 1 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fXAZ_7JO7EA&feature=email
Part 2 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nEAJTgosdo0&feature=related
Part 3 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a6ksPAEGLgk&feature=related
Part 4 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nqcrQixAKJc&feature=related
Part 5 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SUQOjGq3wRE&feature=related
Part 1 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fXAZ_7JO7EA&feature=email
Part 2 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nEAJTgosdo0&feature=related
Part 3 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a6ksPAEGLgk&feature=related
Part 4 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nqcrQixAKJc&feature=related
Part 5 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SUQOjGq3wRE&feature=related
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Recent Indie Buys-Melts
I received my order from Just Right Candles today. This is my second order with Just Right Candles. I purchased the Jumbo Melts ($5) in Hot Cocoa. These have a very nice chocolate scent, I was hoping for a spiced chocolate scent because of the name, but I love the scent regardless. The Jumbo Melts are JUMBO. The price for them are beyond reasonable. I also received tons of extras, yippee! Spiced Plum- a nice spiced fruit scent. Spiced Orange- love it, reminds me of the cinnamon/orange potpourri sold this time of year. Baked Apple Pie- this makes my mouth water, smells just like mom's apple pie on Thanksgiving Day. Egg Nog- smells just like egg nog and I love it! I don't know which one to melt down first! I will be purchasing more from Just Right Candles, so many more melts to try.
The other day I received Melts from Things That Make Scents, and I absolutely love my purchase. I got the Melts in Pecan Pie. I put those in my warmer immediately, burned some Breadfruit incense, and man my home smelled like and exotic bakery!
The other day I received Melts from Things That Make Scents, and I absolutely love my purchase. I got the Melts in Pecan Pie. I put those in my warmer immediately, burned some Breadfruit incense, and man my home smelled like and exotic bakery!
Monday, December 8, 2008
WOMEN
Author: Unknown
WOMEN are WOW .. just face it!!
They smile when they want to scream.
They sing when they want to cry.
They cry when they are happy and laugh when they are nervous.
They fight for what they believe in.
They stand up for injustice.
They don't take "no" for an answer when they believe there is a better solution.
They go without new shoes so their children can have them.
They go to the doctor with a frightened friend.
They love unconditionally.
They cry when their children excel and cheer when their friends get awards.
They are happy when they hear about a birth or a new marriage.
Their hearts break when a friend dies.
They have sorrow at the loss of a family member, yet they are strong when they think there is no strength left.
They know that a hug and a kiss can heal a broken heart.
Women come in all sizes, in all colors and shapes.
They'll drive, fly, walk, run or e-mail you to show how much they care about you.
The heart of a woman is what makes the world spin! Women do more than just give birth. They bring joy and hope. They give compassion and ideals. They give moral support to their family and friends. Women have a lot to say and a lot to give.
WOMEN are WOW .. just face it!!
They smile when they want to scream.
They sing when they want to cry.
They cry when they are happy and laugh when they are nervous.
They fight for what they believe in.
They stand up for injustice.
They don't take "no" for an answer when they believe there is a better solution.
They go without new shoes so their children can have them.
They go to the doctor with a frightened friend.
They love unconditionally.
They cry when their children excel and cheer when their friends get awards.
They are happy when they hear about a birth or a new marriage.
Their hearts break when a friend dies.
They have sorrow at the loss of a family member, yet they are strong when they think there is no strength left.
They know that a hug and a kiss can heal a broken heart.
Women come in all sizes, in all colors and shapes.
They'll drive, fly, walk, run or e-mail you to show how much they care about you.
The heart of a woman is what makes the world spin! Women do more than just give birth. They bring joy and hope. They give compassion and ideals. They give moral support to their family and friends. Women have a lot to say and a lot to give.
'You Saved Too Much Money'
Yes, more raving news about The Grocery Game! So, I was in the market shopping yesterday just filling up my cart. There were so many great "Sunday Only" deals, buy 1 get 2, buy 2 get 3. The best part it was on food my family actually eats (no process, no pork, no pork by products, no shellfish, kosher)! So on top of all these deals, I had coupons and yes they could be used with those deals! The cashier starts to ring up my goods, boop, boop, boop..... Ok, time to pay. Register beeps. Cashier in the mic.,"I need customer service to register 1 please." Me: "What's up?" Cashier: "Oh you probably saved too much money and the manager has to override it." Wow, I have never had this experience before, saving too much money! Play it cool Itiel, because the other customers are already staring at you. Are those evil eyes? The receipt prints out, "With coupons you saved $97." $97, 50% of the total!!!! Came home and King T was elated. I am so enjoying The Grocery Game!
Thursday, December 4, 2008
"Hydrophobic" Sand?
Not quite. One of today's lessons was about a special sand that is coated with a chemical that repels water. Initially Scientist used this sand to trap oil. I wonder if that new product, Moon Sand, is similar to this.
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