Kathy Armstrong
Please check back as workshop details are updated!! (Updated on 06/8/2009)
FRIDAY, JUNE 12
11:00 – 12:00
How to Eat the Homeschool Elephant
Tonya Richard
Getting started in homeschooling doesn't have to be as overwhelming (or as intimidating) as you might think! Whether you are starting with a kindergartner or a high schooler, Tonya will answer your questions and walk you through the process of getting started. Tonya Richard, veteran homeschooler of 18 years, will cover such topics as: making sense of the laws, terminology, grades, lesson plans and more.
Making Science Primary in Reading
Theressa Key – Nancy Larson
Science Reading in the content area can be engaging and fun. In this session, observe a science lesson that addresses visual, auditory, tactile, and kinesthetic learning styles. Students use reading strategies that make learning science content not only more attainable but also enjoyable and exciting. You will learn how your child’s reading skills and abilities will benefit from using the techniques presented in this session. A lesson will be demonstrated that includes shared reading and other reading strategies, activities, and scientific drawing and labeling. Come and see how reading skills are enhanced through total engagement in the content of the lesson.
Vision and Learning: Why 20/20 Vision is Not Enough
Dr. Kristen E. Haskins, Optometrist
The Family Eye Site
Dr. Kristen Haskins, a developmental optometrist, discusses how attention problems and poor academic performance may indicate hidden vision problems.
How to Teach Geography That Has Your Kids Asking for More
“Uncle Josh” (Josh Wiggers) - Geography Matters
Are you encountering geography in your everyday life experiences? You can, and we’ll show you how. Knowing geography’s 5 themes will help you make this topic come alive in your daily learning activities. Discover creative ways to incorporate games, simple mapping assignments, and using atlases and almanacs. Kid’s love these kind of hands-on projects and will want to learn more about the geography of our world.
Don't All Homeschooler's Make A's?
Terry & Pat Wade, Faith Heritage Christian Academy
Do you struggle with record keeping? Are you confused about when and how you should give grades? What are some effective ways of evaluating your child's progress? When do grades help and when do they hinder? Join Terry as he tackles this sometimes confusing topic.
12:30 – 1:30
How to Choose a College and Afford It
Belhaven College
Choosing a college doesn’t have to be difficult, but it does take a little time as does applying for financial aid and scholarships. This session is designed to help you understand the basics of college admission and finding the resources to help pay for your student’s college education.
The Mystery of History, Vol. II – “From Paul to the Fall”
Linda Hobar – The Mystery of History
From Paul on the road to Damascus, to the fall of the Roman Empire, God has been at work to make Himself known. Follow Linda Hobar, author of The Mystery of History, through a lively journey of the first 5 centuries of history since the resurrection of Jesus Christ. From martyrs and missionaries, to Masada and the Edict of Milan, it’s a trip you won’t forget. The content of this workshop is both informational and inspirational (“how to” and “why”)!
Let’s Have a Ball! -
A Civil War Ball Planning Workshop
Olivia Eanes and Abby Winters
Step back in time with Olivia and Abby as they share their love of the Civil War era by helping you plan your own Civil War Ball! Help your friends & family experience history by learning about the dances, etiquette and clothing of this time period. Learn how to choose music, plan the program, and make dance cards for your event. Not only have Olivia and Abby hosted several Civil War balls, but they have also written, directed and produced a local historical film entitled, “Centennial Garden”. Be sure to join them for their demonstration in the i Wonder area Friday before the workshop!
Your Child’s “Bright Future” Finances
Gary Bower – Bower Books
Despite dark financial times, your child’s financial outlook will be brighter as you teach sound Biblical money principles kids can bank on. Featuring a slide show of Gary and Jan Bower’s new book, The Jingle in my Pocket.
Different Ages - Different Stages
Belisa Milewski, veteran homeschool mom
Are you one of the many homeschooling families trying to figure out how to homeschool children in multiple grades? It can be challenging, but not impossible! Listen as Belisa shares not only tips and strategies for making your schooling less stressful, but also her heart for homeschooling. Scott and Belisa have seven wonderful children ranging in ages from 5 to 17!
2:00 – 3:00
Elementary Geometry with Right Start Mathematics
Wendy Braswell – Right Start Mathematics
Geometry is now included on standardized tests during the elementary years. Students of this age are visual learners and 90% of the math topics can be explored geometrically (visually). It makes sense to teach them this way.
Better Nutrition = Better Learning
Lani Meis – Harvest Home Nutrition
In this workshop we’ll learn about the remarkable connection between NUTRITION and BRAIN FUNCTION. We’ll talk about which foods should be AVOIDED and which nutrients need to be ADDED to help your child learn better and relieve symptoms from learning disorders like ADD/ADHD. This workshop will also cover how to improve the immune system in order to quickly fight off viruses like the flu. Learn some safe and effective ways to treat colds … without antibiotics and medicine. Email any health issues to me in advance (lani@harvesthomefarms.com) so we can cover them at the end of the workshop.
The Communication Connection to Learning: What to Look for in the Preschool and School-age Child
Sherri Graves, Speech-Language Pathologist,
Germantown Speech and Hearing Clinic
Is your child struggling with reading, spelling and/or writing skills? What are some red flags you need to be aware of? Join Sherri Graves as she reviews key developmental milestones and delves into why they are important to learning.
Is Dual Enrollment Right for You?
Rick Maupin, Christian Brothers University,
Director of Corporate & Government Program
Do you have questions about dual enrollment: Where do you begin? How does it count toward high school credits? How does it affect their college application? How do you know which class or educational institution is right for your student? Join Rick Maupin as he discusses the benefits and how-to’s of dual enrollment.
Maximizing Alertness for Learning
Lynn Spence, Pediatric Occupational Therapist
Do your child’s eyes glaze over during their history lesson? Do they have trouble focusing on math until it’s complete? What can you do with a wiggle-worm that just can’t sit still?
Join Lynn Spence as she shares strategies & techniques to help you assess and change your student’s level of alertness for optimal learning. She will introduce the innovative Alert Program, “How Does Your Engine Run?” Learn what you can do to keep you and your child running in the “just right zone”. Don’t miss this extremely practical and interactive workshop!
3:30 – 4:30
Writing for Everyone
Pamela White – Excellence in Writing
When you assign a simple writing assignment, do you get groans and whines of “I just can’t, Mom”? Come discover a checklist method of teaching writing that provides students with a clear model of how to write and gives you an objective means of evaluating their work. Using this program with any age student, you will be saying, “Yes, I can teach writing!”
HELP!! It's a Word Problem!!
Beverly Molloy
Do your kids hate word problems? Do you feel confident in your ability to help them work through the problem? Join Beverly Molloy, veteran homeschool mom, as she shares an approach that is sure to help! 8 Step Model Drawing is a math strategy that can help word problems make sense to your elementary students NOW and help them transition smoothly into Algebra LATER. If you think it's too late for your student, this strategy might still be the key to unlock the mystery of word problems for them!
Works of Art with Usborne Books
Elise Rodrigues, Usborne Books
This workshop is designed to give you an overview of internet linked art activities with Usborne Books. Highlights to include a hands-on art project to complete your study of a master artist. Attendees will enjoy a “timeline” introduction to art history with Usborne’s newest art titles. Workshop is limited to 20 participants.
The 4-year Plan
Karen Johnson - Sr. High Guidance Counselor with Home Life Academy
So you have a high school student? This workshop will give suggestions on courses for both Career and University Path, a look towards college, building a portfolio, and a 4-year to-do list to prepare for the big graduation day! Karen has graduated four homeschool high school students. As the co-sponsor who began the MHEA Chapter of Eta Sigma Alpha National Homeschool Honor Society, she helped write the national bylaws for the organization. She is convinced homeschooling gives high school students an edge towards college and that anyone with a plan can homeschool high school successfully!
5:30 – 6:30
Meal Planning Made Simple
Dell Self – MHEA Vice President and support group leader
Sick of the “What’s for dinner?” dilemma? Tired of the “Meatloaf, again?” gripe? Wouldn’t you love to: shop once, cook twice and eat for two weeks; save time, money and your sanity?
If you’re frustrated by the “What’s for dinner? Question and even more unnerved by your inability to answer it, then come learn from Dell as she shares how to remove the stress of getting healthful meals on the table.
Teaching Inquiry-Based Science
Patti Jelinek
Are you prepared for the new science standards in the upcoming school year? New this year: “Understandings about scientific inquiry and the ability to conduct inquiry are essential for living in the 21st century.” What is scientific inquiry? This method will become the norm in the science classroom. Learn about the benefits of using inquiry-based laboratory methods in a homeschool chemistry class.
Parental Right Amendment
Dr. Eric Potter & Bill Richard
For many home schooling parents, homeschooling is about being the type of parent that prepares their dearest treasures for succeeding as adults, impacting their culture for good, passing on a family heritage, and simultaneously enjoying the world created for us. If this describes you, you need to be aware of and to understand the threat growing in our nation that could restrict if not entirely prevent your desired goals from being reached. Parental rights are being eroded by forces within our nation (courts, educational system, and other governmental entities). Parental rights are also being attacked by international laws that would give "rights " to children by taking away your rights to direct the care and upbringing of your children. This workshop will give you an introduction to this issue which not only affects how you homeschool, but every aspect of how you raise your children. Ways you can fight against this threat to your children will also be explained.
Matthew Bullington & Lana Thornton, Christian Communicators of Tennessee
Do you want to prepare your children to stand and speak for truth, to be able to give a reason for the hope that is in them, and to confidently express that hope in a way that impacts those around them? Introduce your students to the world of competitive speech and debate and discover an exciting way to develop their communication skills as well as their critical thinking in a fun and challenging environment. Come discover how this journey through the art of rhetoric can help develop articulate, passionately Christ-centered individuals who are able to compellingly engage their culture with the truth.
SATURDAY, JUNE 13
9:30 - 10:30
You Don’t Have to be SuperMom to Homeschool Successfully
Cindy Wiggers – Geography Matters
Moms, are you tired, grumpy, overweight, disheveled, unorganized, or all of the above? All too often devoted Moms focus so much of their attention and energies to serve the needs of their families they neglect their own very essential needs. When these Moms (and you know who you are) have also committed to educating their children this is even more the case. Come learn the basics of keeping yourself fit – spirit, soul, and body thus keeping a peaceful, yet confident attitude while fulfilling each day’s duties. This is coming from a Mom who’s “been there, done that” and would do it differently. Come learn from my mistakes and create a home environment you can be proud of. You will walk away inspired.
Heart to Heart: It’s About a Life
Joanne Durfey – Mother, Teacher, Educational Tutor
Are you and your child struggling with learning challenges? Be encouraged as Joanne shares her life experiences as a mother, teacher and an educational tutor with special training in learning challenges.
Christian Classical Education
Classical Conversations
How to Eat the Homeschool Elephant
Tonya Richard
Getting started in homeschooling doesn't have to be as overwhelming (or as intimidating) as you might think! Whether you are starting with a kindergartner or a high schooler, Tonya will answer your questions and walk you through the process of getting started. Tonya Richard, veteran homeschooler of 18 years, will cover such topics as: making sense of the laws, terminology, grades, lesson plans and more.
Homeschool Fitness, Home-based Business
Bob Hendry, Team Beachbody
Family! Fun! Fitness! Finances! Our workshop includes nationally acclaimed Team Beachbody fitness programs; perfect for homeschoolers of all ages and fitness levels! Use these tools to help fulfill requirements for physical education and health, while your family gets in great shape! We also present our easy-to-run, highly profitable home fitness business. Conduct practical application of classroom teaching by having students participate in a variety of real-life, daily business activities, under your supervision. And supplement your income in the process!
11:00 – 12:00
Instilling in Your Family a Heart for the Lost
Ceasar Torres – Gospel for Asia
Does your family have a heart for those around them and the unreached world? The Lord wants you to have the same heart for people that He has. This workshop will provide practical ways to lead your family to focus on what truly lasts forever.
Delightful Learning with a Literature Based Approach
Kelly Lutman – Sonlight Curriculum
Flexible … Faith-affirming … Filled with great stories! Do you want to create life-long learners and equip students to think, not just memorize facts? Come see how Sonlight Curriculum had done the planning for you and compiled all the tools to make this year a delightful learning adventure.
The Dateless Lesson Planner: A Workshop on Preventing Anarchy
Linda Hobar – The Mystery of History
After years of frustration, veteran homeschooler Linda Hobar (author of The Mystery of History) found practical ways to liberate her lesson plans and prevent anarchy in her home. Literally. The secret lies in her “Dateless Lesson Planner” – a tool you will want to consider using in your own homeschool to keep students and teacher in better harmony.
Your Child’s “Bright Future” Marriage
Gary Bower – Bower Books
This powerful workshop will give you effective tools for helping your child see past external appearances and charm, and find a godly spouse who is a real gem. This workshop includes a delightful presentation of slides & live music by some of the 12 Bower children - plus an inside peek at their beautiful book, The Person I Marry.
Reasoning – the 4th “R”
Vicky Servi – Bright Minds
(Hands-on Workshop)
Experience fun, critical thinking and reasoning activities. Learn how to develop your child’s cognitive abilities and higher-level thinking in just 10 – 20 minutes per day. Presentation details the importance of critical thinking and reasoning. The cognitive domain involves knowledge and the development of intellectual skills and abilities. Help your children have fun learning – Brain Building Fun!
12:30 – 1:30
Story Writing & Book Reports
Pamela White – Excellence in Writing
Does your student protest that book reports ruin the book? Learn a method to write both meaningful book reports and fantastic stories.
Unlocking the Mystery of College Admissions
Christian Brothers University - Laurie Gray, Assistant Director of Admissions
Laurie will offer insights and practical guidance into preparing for the college admissions process. Topics that will be covered in this workshop will include recommendation letters, college admission essays, standardized testing, scholarships, and financial aid. Attendees will learn how to prepare for applying to colleges, finding the right fit, and how early is too early to begin planning the next step in your educational career.
Passion for Christ
Bryce A. Chandler, author and living historian
Do you have a deep, burning desire to accomplish something before you die? Join author and living historian Bryce A. Chandler as he discusses insights from the world of self-publishing. Bryce is the author of two books for young readers and has spoken at groups across the Mid-South sharing his passion for Christian history and writing. He will discuss the rewarding but strenuous path of following your dreams, and will help listeners discover their call towards something higher than themselves.
Recession Busters: "Freeing" Up Your Cash for Home School
Jill Marr, Veritas Classical Schools
Cash in on ten creative key skills to slash your budget and manage your finances! Free up your cash for homeschool resources, practice stewardship and create more family time.
Spell to Write and Read - A Foundational Language Arts Program
Silvia Mondragon, SEM Educational Services
This unique program, written by Wanda Sanseri, a homeschool educator with experience as a
professional school teacher and private tutor, shows how to teach reading the "write" way.
Some children can learn to read and spell no matter what a teacher does. By phonetically teaching spelling from the start, as the backbone for reading, we can teach all children,
regardless of learning styles, to read and spell. If your students already know how to read, this
program will provide an excellent basis for their spelling and English instruction. SWR is
a complete spelling program, from beginning to college level; integrates Penmanship with
phonics and spelling; teaches comprehensive, explicit phonics; teaches the love of reading
using “real” books; integrates beginning grammar with composition; and reinforces
vocabulary building, including when and how to introduce derivatives and Greek & Latin
roots. SWR is appropriate for students Kindergarten to adult, for beginning, remedial, ESL, and illiterate readers.
2:00 – 3:00
ACT Prep
Karen Johnson - Sr. High Guidance Counselor with Home Life Academy
A workshop filled with hints and suggestions to make this rite of passage as painless as possible. Included will be a recommended timeline, test taking hints, and information on understanding the results.
Designed to School
Kathy Armstrong
Are you overwhelmed by piles of paper and bulging bookcases? Do you shy away from projects your children would love because they are “too messy”? In this workshop, you will learn simple yet effective organizational tips to help reduce clutter and chaos in your homeschooling.
Your Family & THEA: Protecing A Heritage, Preserving a Future
Claiborne Thornton, Tennessee Home Education Association
In 1984 THEA was formed to protect & preserve your family's right to homeschool. While working to guarantee parental rights in TN, THEA builds a strong state-wide network to provide support, encouragement and practical training to strengthen home educating parents and their children. In today's world, homeschoolers need to reconsider our roots and understand our past, while charting a course to preserve and advance our freedoms. The simple joys of a close family are part of the essential fabric of a healthy home and society. This is not an idyllic illusion, but a reality for thousands of homeschooling families in TN and across our world.
Making Science Meaningful and Memorable Through Hands-On Experiences
Sanjay Srivastava, High Touch High Tech
High Touch
High Tech provides totally hands-on, totally participatory, and totally fun science experiences for children. Our unique program offers the opportunity to experience real, relevant science. "I hear and I forgot, I see and I remember, I do and I understand."
Planning for College: What Do I Need to be Doing?
Matthew Bullington & John Thornton, Homeschool College Prep/Shoemaker Financial
Are you confused about what you need to be doing to prepare your children for college? In this workshop we will go on a quick tour through junior-high and high-school, introducing the important steps you need to be following each year to successfully prepare for college. John Thornton with Shoemaker Financial will also introduce what you can do now to ensure you are financially prepared and recommendations on how to fund a college education. The workshop will end with an open session to answer any questions you have regarding the process of preparing for college.