5 HOMESCHOOL Curriculum Choices I would NEVER use! ||

[@HistoryfortheAges]

If it helps anyone, I don't have curriculum, but I am a History professor and put all my lectures on my channel as a free resource to help homeschooling families. I did this because I have always been impressed with my students who were homeschooled. I have a lot of content on Western Civ, the History of the Middle East. Jewish history.

[@schindel6307]

Thank you!

[@HistoryfortheAges]

@Cora Schindel you're welcome. Hope you find some helpful videos. Would be great if you can leave comments on the lectures you watch the feedback will help me know what new content to create

[@darrylg3861]

Thankyou so much. You are kind and will be blessed.

[@non-gmo]

Wonderful thank you!

[@HistoryfortheAges]

@@non-gmo you're welcome. Feel free to share with others 😊

[@MysticWAFFLWZ13]

Personally I would never count on a LA curriculum or Math curriculum to teach our Christian faith. I do use TGTB for academics only, definitely not to teach about faith. It just isn’t there for that imo. However, it does awesome in teaching what it says it does which is LA, Math ,and science. Although I do prefer EIW for writing instruction. 😊

[@heatheraz4680]

I agree. I use TGATB for what it stats for LA. We have enjoyed it for the last 4 years. I use other bible curriculum for teaching bible. We also use Math U See and have used it for 4 years. I love it and the approach.

[@angelaschaefer5883]

An adult with math related learning disability. It is the only one I have looked at. Where making progress is possible.

[@howowen4519]

One thing many gifted students love about Math U See is they can move on at their own pace. No need to keep reviewing concepts for months like spiral. One student was able to go through pre-algebra and algebra 1 in one year. So, math U See can be a wonderful resource for both sides of the spectrum. For anyone that’s curious.

[@Mandadee2012]

Yes!!! I love to teach math, but I can take too long for my son, and often math was interrupted by diapers and other baby stuff. World of difference in his experience when we switched to math u see! He doesn’t do a lot of the hands on stuff, but it’s fascinating to see his number sense develop with this curriculum 🙂

[@angelaschaefer5883]

It looks great I have math related learning disability. If they would have used this in my public school. I probably would have my certificate in child development now. What doesn’t work for one family. In no way discounts the benefits the curriculum has given yours. Given that I am Catholic nice to see I am in good company. With Mormon’s not liked much and very narrow minded. Opinions are plentiful.

[@Esther0101]

I appreciate your response. My son is on the spectrum and gifted in certain areas. I too benefited from the paces and graduated a year early due to motivation to move forward. I’m beginning homeschooling a 5th grader that has been in public school for his whole education. Right now I’m in an online curriculum rabbit hole 😂 it’s a little overwhelming

[@DebBeePlus3]

I knew in my gut when I clicked on this I would probably be using one or more 😅. Turns out it’s just one, and just for one subject. And that’s part of the beauty of homeschooling, is picking and piecing together the things that work for your kids learning style and your families core values and beliefs. But, I side with you 1,000% on Abeka, and that’s from someone who was brought up on it until middleschool! I would go nuts if I had to use it for my own children.

[@elenahajda9291]

The good and the beautiful works best for us. I'm actually grateful it's not religious too much. Kids have to be kids, prayer in the morning is about enough 🙏 ❤

[@lucysimons9896]

I'm team Abeka for Arithmetic only. I could never do it all. It's so much work! This year we tried another math curriculum and we'll be going back to Abeka for next year school year. TGTB has an appeal because it's open and go and they offer Lang. Arts and Math as a free download. I'm currently phasing out using TGTB simply because it isn't serving our family anymore. I can see holes in my oldest's language arts education. We'll be using IEW from now on.

[@amyclutter7259]

I have a bit of PTSD from Abeka and ACE… when I was homeschooled there were only about 4 curriculums available. I’m glad my mom picked Abeka and credit it with my strength in language arts, but reading the texts as an adult, it feels like nothing has changed… the exact same content and photos that were in it 30 years ago. We tried Math U See, it didn’t work, my kids hated it, and it set us back because there was so much relearning they had to do to be on track with other maths. TGATB, we are trying their science units. I’m still looking for a good science… haven’t loved anything we’ve tried.

[@ashleyacosta3149]

We attempted the good and the beautiful this year for la and math and it was terrible! I hate to say it but I can’t wait to be done with it. I love how beautiful it is and the picture studies though.

[@bellaann518]

Oh no! Masterbooks is more gentle. I loved it. But we finished level 2 in first grade in 3 months. Mine needed something more challenging. I do like how TGTB throws in some science, history,& geography.

[@Kaylin09]

Same😢

[@Kelly_Mae]

Hi! Can you please share what was terrible about the good and beautiful? I am looking for a new curriculum.

[@tiakennedy2608]

I am not a fan of TGAB and switched my kids off it, but then found that for one of my kids it actually worked better than Beast Academy and IEW so we're back to it for language arts and math for her. My 4 year old also uses it when he wants to do lessons. The new earlier years are excellent imo but the later years were not ideal. Way too much practise work for a kid who grasps concepts quickly and I could imagine for a child having trouble it'd be overwhelming. Definitely not got a lot in it re integrating God into topics, but I like that given how different an LDS ("Mormon") view point is to a Christian's (Ex-LDS Christian here)

[@juliequates9529]

Really appreciate your feedback on these curriculums from an evaluation perspective. Really trying to keep my homeschool funds going to true Christian companies.

[@FamilyStyleLearning]

I love this!

[@katie7748]

It's hard to do because many are from branches that we do not agree with. Secular is another minefield. I don't want to see pronoun bologna in math lessons (yes, really).

[@jennifersanchez4245]

Love your honesty! We use TGTB and it's working for now😊 (We also supplement and change a few things around). That's the beauty of homeschool. You use what works for your family ❤ Your videos have been such a blessing to my family, I'm constantly sharing them with others😘 Keep up the great work!

[@LivingWithEve]

Thanks!

[@libertycoffeehouse3944]

As a person who reads history all the time, I came across Abeka World History at a thrift store and was shocked at the quality. I would recommend their history curriculum, especially, if you care about fredom and liberty.

[@nancyann1090]

ACE is very good for families with many children and whose mama is getting very overwhelmed. Just add in library books and your kids ARE learning. Standardized tests are not great at evaluating learning!!!!!

[@riggs20]

How else are you going to find out how your child is progressing?

[@bellaann518]

I love TGTB. It’s free 😂. I do like Master Books but we finish Math 2 in 3 months. I love MB. My kids loves TGTB 🤷‍♀️. The price is right .

[@kaylatallman9075]

TGTB taught my children how to read in literally 1 month. They went from not being able to read at all to reading books. I am using lifepac for my 8th grader and I’m starting to regret it. It’s too much and far too hard to understand

[@GardenMinistry.]

I appreciate your feedback especially with your background! I am sort of a "Team Abeka" person, my kids started out with it at their preschool, so when we transitioned to homeschool I wanted to provide that consistency in curriculum. I found out quickly we couldnt do ALL of it, and because we are teacher lead, we simplified it and adjusted it to our needs, and I ended up loving it. We love the phonics review, the thoroughness, and the spiral approach, and definitely the Christian world view. It really does help with learning to read in an advanced way. I dont think im married to it, I see myself eventually transitioning to other things when my kids are a little older. I know I'll be using Teaching Textbooks for Math, IEW writing/Grammer, and a classical History (like SOTW or MOH). TGTB would never work because of its "too much fluff" and its lacking consistency in that it's lessons are pieced together randomly, and not enough spiral for the facts to really stick for my children. I wish Charlotte Mason approach could work for us, but it doesn't seem to, and Un-schooling would also not fit us either... that approach frankly scares me! Still searching for the right Spelling program, Abeka's is too rigorous for us. Thank you for your awesome videos!

[@LivingWithEve]

Thank you so much for sharing all of this with my community. Absolutely love the honesty. 🥰

[@LaciElements08]

We started with TGATB my kids didn't retain it at all. We have moved on to Christian Light Education ( CLE ) as well as Rod and Staff. We do use TGATB level 3 cursive though. One of our kids is on the spectrum, and the color coding style of teaching the letters really reaches her.

[@CCgirl2083]

I love your honestly about the programs you talk about every year. It's actually the reason I choose MUS in the first place. My adhd daughter is doing well with it when she couldn't in others, plus we don't need testing where I live. TGTB (pervious edition) has been amazing for my children in many ways for reading and spelling rules. The spelling words themselves didn't work for us but doing the actives kept it fun enough. I have no option on their math. Handwriting is gentle and I've enjoyed watching the girls get better everyday.

[@LivingWithEve]

Thanks for sharing your curriculum, sounds like a great year. And thank you for your support as well!

[@michellewei7349]

I use ACE. this whole last year, I've used ACE. My son loves it. Seeing the kids grow up... how colorful it is. All of the different character traits too! My son needs constant review. I thought about going to a nearby Christian School but they use Abeka. I was in contact with the Admissions lady and she said she herself did ACE from grades 7-12 but wouldn't comment on it. She said Abeka is "academic acceleration". My ADHD 12 year old doesn't need acceleration. He's kinda lazy but he is a math and science kid. Now, I went on their site for schools... I saw a CATHOLIC school that was registered! Also a LOT of elementary and NO middle or high schools! I don't let my son do this "independently". I stay by his side. I score it for him. I would really like to know more about why you don't like it. I like how King James based it is. My son IS learning using it!

[@InkDiaries]

We use ACE as well and have no issues. My kids enjoy it and they’re all above grade level. ACE works for us 😊 continue using what works for your family!

[@KittyCuties33]

Thank you for your thoughts on other curriculum. It provides useful feedback. :) The Good and the Beautiful is watered down to basic Christianity beliefs, which both LDS and other demoninations share to help create common ground. From what I've seen, the main purpose is not to teach spiritually but to have a good and solid Christian framework that provides good and clean learning and literature. So much now-a-days isn't morally clean or with beautiful descriptive language, and it's nice to know that based on their content, I can trust my kids are reading clean and moral content that supports healthy families. That being said, I don't agree with everything in it and we talk about it as a family and discuss it deeper.

[@mylifeintheusa4720]

I don't use it because I don't consider LDS to be a Christian denomination. There are also other faiths that are part of the review process that I would not consider christian. I rather stick to an actual Christian curriculum that teaches what I believe.

[@KittyCuties33]

@@mylifeintheusa4720 I'm glad we each get to choose what curriculum works best for us and aligns most closely with our beliefs. While I can understand your perspective, I respectfully disagree. As a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, I very much am a Christian and strive to follow Him in my life and become new through Him. Jesus Christ is my Lord, my Savior, and my source of strength. And while I don't know everyone who is on the committee for this curriculum, there is truth in all faiths and denominations that we can learn from each other, build common ground, and come closer to Christ together. It's so beautiful! I wish you well in finding what works best for your family.

[@nunziawright6442]

We Love the good and the beautiful. But I do use LA and Math only. for other subjects I go with Masterbook

[@taraglosser6353]

We’ve used A.C.E Paces for a few years now with our 13 year old but slowly getting away from it. Although I do like the simplicity of it there isn’t enough writing that we’ve experienced with it. I will probably eventually switch her to masterbooks because of the shorter lessons. I started her on teaching textbooks for math and she seems to like it. We do use TGAB with our 7 year old and love it!! We also use Not Consumed Ministries for bible study for our whole family.

[@Homelifelearning]

We are a UK non religious family and we home educate. My daughter uses G&tb maths and this is her 2nd yr. She loves it and is doing great. We love the fact it is wishy-washy religious as we just skip those bits.

[@LivingWithEve]

I have notice a lot of secular families love TGATB. I’m so glad it works for you.

[@oneblessedmommy4024]

Everyone I know uses Abeka... I'm the only one who does not 😂 Abeka is too much. Never used Math U See but through research I knew it wouldn't be a good fit. We use The Good and The Beautiful all the way for academic purposes. Our church provides Sunday school curriculum that we use for Bible, teaching strong foundations of our faith and it is definitely not watered down 😉 it even provides Hebrew learning which I LOVE!

[@nancyann1090]

You can stop with MUS after ZETA. Than it progresses similar to other programs. But yes MUS teaches concepts in a different order than traditional curriculum. But it WILL cover everything. The way it teaches is so good for kids who struggle with math!!

[@65sheilakay]

I have used Rod & Staff for most years. I like the format, the books are hardcover so they're durable. Makes for easy resale also, but we found their curriculum easy to follow and affordable. For 9th Grade I found Lifepac Alpha Omega. Loved it. Now we're in 10th. Grabbing resources and books from all over, but still using Rod & Staff Math book (8th grade) because it's jammed so full what he needs like geometry etc., we never got through it all. Woll probably grab a few 10th grade Lifepacs off Ebay on an as needed.

[@genabrady1348]

One thing that ACE is great for is the math. My oldest is dyslexic and ADD, and he really struggles with math. The simple layout, the small chunks, the frequent review, and the booklet format makes it so much easier for him to handle. It's also very budget friendly. I would absolutely agree that TGTB is very minimal when it comes to a Christian world view. The big reason I still use it is because it's free. One of the biggest cons of Abeka is the cost. It is one of the most expensive curriculums out there.

[@LivingWithEve]

This is all very good to know. Thank you!

[@deborasmith5191]

That is one of my easons I haven't tried Abeka either. I also heard there was a lot of seat work and my does not like to sit still that long. He is only seven.

[@full-timeventures5885]

Hi there! I have a question about The Good and the Beautiful . Do you choose not to use it because of it's being so controversial? Or do you think that it is a structurally sound curriculum for math and language? I would really appreciate honest feedback on the academic integrity of it given your expertise. 😊

[@LivingWithEve]

I don’t use it because it’s controversial and there is really nothing overly special about it. Also, I’m not crazy about the format either. How it’s presented. I would rather put my money and time into something that works for our family better. A company that I can have trust in, that works well with my values. There are so many options out there, Why would I use a curriculum just because everyone else is doing it or because it makes me trendy. Instead of TBGAB I would look at My Father’s World with a math curriculum added. Or BJU, Alpha Omega, Horizon, Christian Liberty Press, or others.

[@full-timeventures5885]

@@LivingWithEve thank you!

[@evalinemama]

@@LivingWithEve Not using TGTB because of the controversy is another form of "jumping on a bandwagon." You are jumping on the bandwagon of refusing to use it because of the controversy surrounding the owner's faith, because a lot of people stay away from it for that reason. I wasn't using it when the first video that started the controversy came out. Still I found that video distasteful. It wasn't until a couple years later that I decided to try it when we were struggling with other stuff we were using. It clicked so well for us I felt like I found a pot of gold. My reason for using and loving it had nothing to do with hype.

[@prayersponytails6227]

I loved your honesty and humility with this video (and all your videos). My husband and I have the same conviction about TGTB and haven’t supported their company in years. I have close neighbors who are Mormon which lead me to study their beliefs closely. I know it’s unpopular, but it’s refreshing to my spirit to hear another family who has similar convictions, so thank you for sharing. 💕

[@LivingWithEve]

Thank you!!

[@teijaflink2226]

If I'm not into a certain religion I would personally feel uncomfortable with using a curriculum like that with my children even if it's watered down and can fit both mormon and other Christian families. I'm Christian but I don't think I would want the curriculum to be either religious or political, I would teach about those things outside of it or find a specific curriculum that teaches about Christianity as example.

[@jenniferharley8987]

We are using ACE for math, spelling and science this year. Loving it for math. My son needed the repetition it offers. The science and spelling are so boring! Looking for a more hands on approach for my wiggly kiddo.

[@michellewei7349]

When I ran ACE diagnostics for my son last year... he scored so HIGHT on Word Buidling! Basically, all he has to do is 8th grade level. He doesn't want to do it until 8th grade because he wants to see the characters naturally grow in age!

[@megh1333]

Thank you for this- we recently got denied being able to stay part in our local christian co-op because for our household we have personal conviction against using The good and the beautiful...and they refused to make an accommodation for my son. Very disheartening and disappointed but we gather its the Lords will for us to just do homeschool without the co-op for the time being.

[@WanjaWaWa]

Sorry about that. Always follow what God places in your heart unapologetically :)

[@liztefft5312]

I agree with you on most of these. We did start using Math U See for my 9th grader who had been struggling with math. He is excelling now with the mastery approach even though we did have to back track and go pretty far "below grade level". I've decided not to worry about the standardized tests. He was ready to give up on math, and now he's developing a much stronger foundation and gaining confidence in his skills.

[@elisabethcruz7368]

I used Math U See with my kid in K, 1 and 2. We quit after that. She hated it. She did not understand it. She re-did 2nd grade math in 3rd grade with a different curriculum. And its been so much better!

[@jenniferyounkin8920]

I appreciate your feedback on MUS. I am always tempted to get it for my son, but you’re right, you would have to stick with it year after year to not have major gaps and use the program successfully. I agree that Abeka is too much, but my son has done really well with the math. The spiral review (to ad nauseum for me) is really effective for him.

[@Drestic]

I have used abeka for kindergarten and now 1st grade. I don't feel like it is rigorous at this time, but maybe that won't happen until later. Are you talking about it being rigorous in all grades or just older grades? I dont want to keep getting it if I'm going to drown in it one year without realizing. This is my second year homeschooling and I live in ny so I needed something solid.

[@LivingWithEve]

If it’s not to much for you then stick with it. For some, it’s too much. It doesn’t jump or anything like that, it’s just a very traditional curriculum. It will cover everything. Some homeschoolers don’t want that.

[@JessicaCoombs-s8r]

I wasn't sure I would agree with her "don'ts" but man is she spot on with Abeca and Math U See. I am homeschooling my two kids but I was homeschooled myself middle school through high school and my mom had me use abeca the first few years and I hated it! I also was always pretty good with Math, even had been in some math honors classes at a private school before being homeschooled and Math U See was not helpful for me in Algebra. It was nice to have videos to watch a professor since my mom didn't know these higher maths, but whenever I had a question the video didn't answer I was out of luck. We used G&B for the first two years of my daughters school and loved it at first and still love their LA but their Math got really hard and too spirally in Level 2 and she struggled. I also agree with others that we don't use this solely for her biblical learning. I also feel it's more advanced which has been fine for us in LA but not in Math. Pick what works for you and be ok with changing things until you find what fits your child! ❤

[@de5889]

I think the ACE Paces might depend on the subject. I get that it would be easy to not retain in that manner for most subjects. My kids have done their music and Spanish. They worked wonderfully, but those are both subjects that require more involvement. You can’t just regurgitate; you have to understand.

[@allheartandsong]

And yes, my kids are doing great with math but like you said it is taught differently so will test low.

[@tiffanymaleport]

Thanks for your feedback it was cool to see your opinion! I was surprised to see ACE ❤️I love it! We used Abeka for kindergarten and now ACE going forward! My favorite part about it is the focus on Gods Word!! I’ll be curious to see the ones you do prefer!!!

[@LivingWithEve]

That one comes out Thursday!

[@tiffanymaleport]

@@LivingWithEve awesome good to know!!!! I get notifications so I’ll definitely check it out!

[@LivingWithEve]

Great! And thanks so much!!

[@michellewei7349]

My son is 12 with ADHD (inattentive) and he LOVES ACE! Second year of it. No looking back. NJ in the house!

[@allheartandsong]

You are very right about math u see. Our kids tested pretty low in math on the standardized tests. We are going to switch to something different.

[@CalmintheChaosHomeschool]

I grew up with Ace paces… they were ok. I was a self motivated child, so I guess it worked? But I would never use it with my kids. Maybe one subject, but I doubt it.

[@KittyCuties33]

Also, on a personal note, we would appreciate more correctly being called Latter-day Saints or preferably members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This is the official name of our church. Many know us as "Mormons" due to "The Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ" that we use along with the Bible, but we don't worship the prophets Mormon or Joseph Smith. We are very much Christians and worship God and also Jesus Christ as our Savior and center of our focus and teachings, just like other denominations. I am glad there are so many resources now that can help point us toward God together. It is very needed in society today. Thanks for your understanding and respect. I've really enjoyed many helpful tips from your videos! ❤️

[@cmkar8830]

Thank you for this. Very helpful.

[@KISEMA02]

Wow I didn’t know that religion was so in-depth into education. I went to a catholic school as a child and I thought it was less prominent in class and more integrated in the morning blocks, breaks, specific religion based courses or choir or drama.

[@kimberlyamapes1201]

I agree with all of your picks and for many of the same reasons.

[@kllawrence]

Which math would you choose for your daughter? My daughter has T21 as well. She's only 3 but I am planning on homeschooling her.

[@LivingWithEve]

I’m using So Happy To Learn right now.

[@srayec.7741]

What’s a good curriculum for your daughter you mentioned at the end?

[@LivingWithEve]

I probably mentioned So Happy a to Learn but now I’m using Equipping Minds.

[@Tbaby9361]

What’s your opinion on places like sylvan for children in public school that need help in school? (9th grade)

[@LivingWithEve]

I’m not sure, it really depends on the people who work there. I personally would look for a highly recommended person.

[@scrunchymommabear5877]

I like TG&TB more as a supplemental Christian filler. My kiddos are younger and we like that... but I only do it 3 days a week and only 3 subjects

[@kaitlynlewis6958]

What about seton books? And what about five in a row? Thinking about starting with those in the fall with my kindergarden

[@LivingWithEve]

I am not familiar with Seton. Five in A Row is very nice. It’s great for bonding and even for co-op. It’s also very simple and easy to replicate after you understand the pattern.

[@peachy_reina]

Agree 100%. I've tried and researched so many things. I have commitment issues as well 😂 Didn't love TGTB and Math U See wouldn't work. I prefer spiral.. especially with ADHD children. I also believe in personalizing curriculums per my children's individual learning styles. I also realized that with 5 children, we are not a "fluff" kind of family.

[@deedeescarberry5981]

Thanks for this video, I’m enjoying your channel! I’m curious if you’re familiar with Rightstart Math, which is what I’m using for a second year now. I know it’s also a bit different than the way math is usually taught in the US. Have you noticed kids having an issue transitioning out of Rightstart?

[@LivingWithEve]

I used that for my daughter in 2nd grade. We almost killed each other. Now she does teaching textbooks and she’s doing great!!

[@evainterrupted]

MUS is working for now, MB was a serious let down. I'm also not a fan of TGATB. Never been an abeka fan either. We are using AO now and its been like giving especially with the kids special needs.

[@Sevenarrowsacademy]

Your hair is absolutely beautiful on you! LOVE that length!

[@LivingWithEve]

Oh thank you! My husband wants it long again, so we’ll see. But I’ll enjoy the summer cut until then. Thanks again!

[@alwaysaperdue1]

My son lost 3 years of consistent writing and grammar instruction while we used tgatb. I can see it could work if someone already knew HOW to write but it was too vague for him.

[@wendyshofner8308]

Do you have any thoughts on the critical thinking compan. I'm looking at buying some of their books such as language , arts and critical thinking. I know that I also have history in science.

[@LivingWithEve]

It's okay. I've used it but i haven't been overly impressed. But it is better than other curriculum.

[@wendyshofner8308]

@@LivingWithEve Thank you

[@corriezoetewey7860]

So interesting that I’m pretty sure we use mostly different curriculum from what you use but I agree with your comments on the ones you would never use. Can’t wait to see your next video about what you do like.

[@MarissaBrown-c6g]

What fully online would you recommend? Are your thoughts the same for Abeka academy

[@LivingWithEve]

That’s a good question, look at Monarch.

[@lwalls]

We had very good experiences with T4L (limited to math) and my husband used Ace in school and absorbed it like a sponge. I've taught Abeka and I guess I understand why it's so popular in schools. It's so, well, standardized! Lol! You don't need to actually plan anything. What I think all of these have in common is they really only fit into more unique situations, like families who are fine with the 100% computer learning of T4L, or when parent and child share a penchant for details and linear thought, so Abeka seems to work fine. Or, a child who is really, sincerely motivated to learn will find Ace very rewarding. But none of that describes most homeschool families. Good list and good feedback!

[@FaithFamilyHomeschool]

Could I bother you for your opinion for high school math curriculum? I want to stick with one for the twins' high school career. I'm between CTC Math and Mr. D Math. Are you familiar? Have you seen good testing scores using either of these?

[@LivingWithEve]

I would lean more toward Mr. D. I have not seen test score result for either but I know his program is solid especially if you stay consistent with it through the high school career.

[@toomanyboys]

I know you didn’t ask my opinion, but I thought I’d share it with you. I’m a 15 yr homeschooling veteran who was also homeschooled growing up. I have graduated two students. We used Shormann math from pre-algebra through pre-Calculus and then in 12 th grade they took Calculus at the community college. One just finished his first year of college and the other starts college next month. Both boys did phenomenally on the ACT. One scored a 32 and the other a 34. I felt Shormann math really has prepared them well, esoecially if you have a STEM minded child who is college bound. My third son will be a junior next year. He’s currently finishing up with Algebra 2/geometry. We’re taking it slower with him, as he is dyslexic, but he’s still doing very well. He hasn’t taken the ACT yet, so I don’t know how he will do. He also doesn’t know what he will do after high school yet. But my philosophy is to prepare you for college, in case that is where the Lord calls you to go. If you don’t go to college, it won’t hurt that you had a great math education. If you do want to go to college, but have not been well-prepared, that will definitely hurt you. Both my boys are at a private Christian college. It’s not cheap, but their high ACT scores got them both large academic scholarships that make it possible for them to go. This was also another of my focuses. They don’t want to take out student loans, so I told them they needed a lot of scholarships then and the way to do that is to excel academically. It has worked well for us! I will say they thought Dr Shormann was pretty boring, but I made them do it anyhow because it was solid. They survived. 😂

[@toomanyboys]

Oh, if you want math standardized test score info, my kids always score PHS in math. Also wanted to add that my oldest has ASD and ADHD, so Shormann can work well with learning disabilities.

[@aroundtheworld1692]

I bought Good and Beautiful and I regretted it! Academically not the most ideal.

[@joyfullyhomeschoolingboys]

Do you think supplementing would help when it comes to MathUSee?

[@LivingWithEve]

No, Math U See is a stand alone. It will teach Math but it’s a different approach.

[@gwynethlester1421]

Completely agree on TGTB. I tried it for both of my kids and my it did not work at all. The phonics did not work at all and I did not feel there was enough writing instruction for my dyslexic son. My daughter is a natural writer but again really did not feel there was enough writing instruction. I liked the integration of other subjects, but neither of my teens liked this. I did not like the timeline in which they do their history. And then there was the us constitution course issue… That made us realize for numerous reasons that this just wasn’t the right fit.

[@audreymaldonado5655]

I tried MUS with my oldest in 1st. He hated it because it was boring. He would say, I can’t only do addition! I need to do subtraction & multiplication too! 😂. But I started using it last year for my 7th grader. It was the only way she understood fractions, but MUS Algebra 1 wasn’t working for her so I switched her to teaching textbooks.

[@angelaschaefer5883]

My son did Abeka at Christian private school. For PreK he was extremely well prepared for Kindergarten.

[@juliepreston7597]

We tried Math U See for my high schooler and we tried for two weeks and she was lost and not learning at all. She’s right that you have to start from the beginning to end end with Math U See. My child hated the videos and the curriculum was impossible. 400.00 wasted…. Save yourself.

[@riggs20]

I had Abeka in early elementary school and found it too easy. When I switched schools, the curriculum was so much more challenging. This was back in the ‘80s though so things may have changed.

[@willowbee6125]

Hey! I totally respect your thoughts. I actually use several of the curriculums that you wouldn't use 😂. I'm using a mesh of curriculums this year, Christian and not. The Good and The Beautiful is my LA for my 1st grader. I heard several online that say there are better options than them (which I'm sure there are) but I've never heard anyone give any options to look into. The big draw for TGTB is: open and go, affordable, beautifully illustrated. Could you give some options that are comparative? If they are Christian then that would definitely be a bonus. Thanks!

[@ChelsaKay90]

Masterbooks and Generations are both open and go that do a much better job incorporating the Bible and christian faith into all their subjects.

[@WanjaWaWa]

​@@ChelsaKay90I was looking for this comment. I'm considering either of these 2. Please help. Have you used them?

[@girl4granted]

Do you have any tips for preparing your kids for formal testing (legally required)?

[@LivingWithEve]

It really depends on the test. A lot of test have study guides you can use to prepare. I would start there, by looking for the study guides.

[@FamilyStyleLearning]

Great video concepts. And really well said. Thanks for sharing.

[@ThundersGames]

As someone who has been victim of the ACE curriculum for over 5 years now my “complaints” are: 1: The examples are butt 2: Very hard to do enough pages a day to get any amount of highschool credits 3: Very unrealistic stories in the book with extremely misogynist and racial references (eg., the white kids go to a different school than the crayon people 4: Flags, initials, tests, and scoring is not sigma

[@heatherdellosa9220]

We are not religious so I actually seek out secular curriculum and tried Time for Learning with my daughter one part of a year. I just wanted to state that we thought it was among the WORST curriculums I’ve ever used! There were so many confusing multiple choice questions that even I couldn’t figure out, and the lesson videos were just awful. Boring and monotone cartoons. We scrapped that one so fast.

[@SamanthaGrant-u1d]

Do you have any input/reviews for BJU press?

[@JupiterMoJo]

Any thoughts on Monarch all in one for first time homeschooling 5th grade?

[@LivingWithEve]

I know it but not really well. But from those that use it, they love it.

[@avalle05]

Love your honesty!

[@SandraKFreeman]

I’ve used ACE and this is our 4th year using it. At first it was what we needed to not overwhelm the ADHD student, but this 4th year I question if he’s really learning much especially in the Language Arts area. So next year I plan to only use the Bible Reading and Science that we won’t finish this year, and use Christian Light Education and Rod and Staff History/Geography. We will be repeating level 4 because that’s where he tested in Math and Language Arts. Thanks for sharing.

[@homeschoolmom23]

I'm a former public school math teacher. I've been homeschooling since 2004. MATH U SEE is the only curriculum that I'll ever use. My oldest was the only homeschool kid that passed the college dual enrollment placement test. And, the only to use MUS. Math U see does have a different approach, but when you mentioned standardized test, I had to laugh. MUS incorporates critical thinking skills at the primer level. Mr Demme knew that mastery was more important than jumping through hoops (standardized tests) My kids have excellent problem solving skills. The manipulatives are optional after the primary grades. I never used them. I've tutored my friends' kids in math, they do not use MUS, and it shows, lol.

[@LivingWithEve]

So, this video is actually quite old. Since then, I have changed my perspective. Especially since I've seen what it has done for the autism community.

[@erinsnook8537]

I was not impressed with TGTB at all. I had High School level 1 and have no idea how it can be considered rigorous or advanced.

[@gracefullychaotic9811]

We use MUS. But we also live in a state where testing is not required, so I'm happy using it at our pace for me kids to master different math topics. I thought you did a great job explaining why you don't use these curriculums. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.

[@karivanhorn1765]

We love MUS both of my kids where not getting it, and now they are confident. We also don't have testing in our state, so it works out great for us!

[@courtneysimon444]

Hi! What do you think about using Science and Social Studies Ace Paces to knockout nonfiction reading comprehension? I also like that it can take care of scripture memorization, vocabulary cursive, and geography practice as well! I couldn’t see using it for a full curriculum…but for a reluctant reader, I thought it would be great in those two subjects. Thoughts? I agree on TGATB. I’ve tried more than once to use it. It’s busy and there doesn’t seem to be any depth.

[@LivingWithEve]

I am not a fan of ACE PACE. It feels like it is very traditional and worksheet based.

[@darrylg3861]

I used abeka. It made it easier. I was a single mom so I definitely needed the help. At that time it was compiled by Pensacola State College. I also was fortunate to live in an area with one of the largest Homeschool Association in the country. I was amazed at how the parents helped each other. I had no idea what I was doing. But it was the best decision I ever made

[@GardenMinistry.]

Yes! There are definitely ways to simplify Abeka to help it work for each family, we are parent lead so we tweak it, and we've been loving it especially for the beginning Phonics years!

[@StephanieMT]

Good and beautiful does not work for my family.

[@ginagiberti9283]

I'm a little surprised to see MUS on your list since it is so popular in the ADHD groups. I had definitely heard before that standardized testing can be an issue since the skills are taught in a different order (but that wasn't our personal experience).

[@heidibarker2120]

My son uses MUS, but he gets through it so quickly that we add in Beast Academy. The combination of the two have worked amazingly well. We have to test and he scores greater than 90 percentile every year. I think it levels out with spiral programs at the end of Zeta.

[@ginagiberti9283]

@@heidibarker2120 Same. Except I add on topical units at the end of the year when they finish MUS. I thought BA looked really fun but my kids didn't like it.

[@believestthouthis7]

I appreciate your perspective on these curriculum options and hearing what parents have to say in the comment section. Personally we love Abeka. I continue looking at other choices, but keeping coming back to Abeka as being the right fit. I like that it is so well-rounded, thorough and rigorous. It provides lots of opportunity for more review or practice if needed. I also love that their Bible and English programs are so strong. People often praise those in particular. Our family loves starting every day with the Bible portion. They include songs, Scripture and a Bible lesson and it sets the tone for rest of the learning. I can tell that there is a sense of accomplishment when the school day is complete. I'm keeping an open mind, but I get the impression that we won't be using anything else because it has been so effective for us.

[@GLT2024]

So helpful!!!! Thank you!

[@rabbitila7685]

I don't care for Abeka.

[@cassiedelash5879]

Thank you!

[@Jessiemadanat]

Agree with all you said add Life Pac

[@sandragordon6219]

My older daughter loves the Abeka earth science but my younger child would hate it! Too much info! My older daughter thrives on too much info lol

[@ldv02]

What about Saxon math?

[@LivingWithEve]

I’ve never used it, but I know there are mixed opinions on it. I’m pretty much in different about it. It’s very solid, I do know that.

[@ldv02]

I don’t understand why people use curriculum to teach their faith. For that use the Bible. The Christian families that have no other option than to send their kids to Public school are not expecting their curriculum to teach about their faith, they teach that at home with the Bible.

[@LivingWithEve]

Well I think they use curriculum that teach faith and use the Bible.

[@believestthouthis7]

That's the beauty of homeschooling. Your faith can be a part of the education, as opposed to how it is in the public schools, where prayer and Bible teaching has been removed.

[@amytheshihtzumom]

@@believestthouthis7Children are allowed to pray and read the Bible in public schools. The only thing that is not allowed is school or teacher led prayer because children of many different faiths attend public schools, and it would be unconstitutional to force one religion on everyone. I'm sure you would not like for your child to be forced by the schools to pray to a different god than you worship. Children of other religions feel the same.

[@believestthouthis7]

@@amytheshihtzumom Exactly, and that's just one of the reasons why we homeschool. It's just that the general sentiment in the past was of acceptance and common support of Christianity and now the attitude is removing it from the school systems and instead bringing in a lot of other ideologies instead. Those philosophies and ideologies are being forced on the children. Thankfully homeschooling is legal in many places and parents don't have to allow their own children to be subjected to it.

[@AlwaysLime]

I’ve never heard of Aces Paces.

[@chrisderouchey1491]

I’m so glad I’m homeschooling in AZ where we aren’t required to give tests (state or national). Starting Math-U-See next month! 🤞🏼

[@non-gmo]

I'm with you on all these! We started with Abeka when I began homeschooling and holy moly is that workbook overload. Also, not a fan of the spiral math approach that it follows as well as TGATB. I found it too confusing in chaotic for all of our brains to bounce around and explain so many concepts in one day. I have finally found our groove in eclectic homeschooling lol. I use AO and truth quest combination for History and Bible core. I combine Charlotte Mason arithmetic with Ray's arithmetic. For reading we swap out McGuffy's with chapter readers, like Mr Popper's penguins. For a writing we do copywork or I just have my daughter write her own stories which she loves. And finally we do Latin but we usually spread one year out over two :) Science consists of just going outside and getting dirty!

[@kaprenawheatman8222]

We love science shepherd for science for our boys. I have 4 boys and 1 girl. My daughter enjoys master books for science but my boys do well with the short science lessons that science shepherd does. They learn something and don’t have to sit still for a long period of time. The video lessons are between three and 5 minutes for my 1st grader and he just has to answer a few questions when done. Sometimes 3 or 4 questions. And sometimes there is a crossword or word search. He likes crosswords but hates word searches so we usually throw out the word searches or I only ask him to find half of the words. We are currently doing earth science. This is our second year to use the curriculum. My other son who is in 8th grade is doing physical science and he enjoys the lessons as well. But we also do a lot of outdoor time for the boys. They are able to take school better in small chunks when they are able to run in between lessons. Although, I am not Mormon, I do like TGTB for my younger boys as well. Again it goes back to the short lessons. It is great for pre-k and kindergarten and even 1st grade. It makes them not hate school because we don’t sit for long for each subject.

[@LivingWithEve]

Thanks for sharing!!

[@deborasmith5191]

We have been doing the Mcguufey's readers too after he started reading and it was great. We didn't finish them, but branched out into other books also.

[@non-gmo]

@@deborasmith5191 Yes :) we paused them over the summer but then I found a complement notebooking download for them on verily schoolhouse and it's awesome:)

[@boogsassy1]

I do most of Abeka and it is a lot but so far in 6st grade, no problem. I may be the odd ball here🤪 I am doing Generations for history and Apologia for science for her 7th grade year. I guess different strokes for different folks and it greatly depends on each kid. I still enjoy watching everyone's opinions and still am a loyal watcher😉Many of these moms gave me the courage to homeschool in the first place. ❤

[@LivingWithEve]

Oh I actually like Generations! And Apologia!!

[@hollys6821]

I can’t figure out why people like The good and the beautiful either. We tried it because of the hype and it was awful for all Of us. What are you’re the thoughts on easy peasy?

[@LivingWithEve]

Easy Peasy is a pretty basic curriculum. Nothing over the top. It works. I do like that they incorporate the Bible. However, from a nerdy education perspective… I do think the LA portion needs a little more.

[@1986kimberlyg]

Thank you for articulating how I feel about TGTB. I’m not sure why it’s so popular (maybe it’s the ascetics?) but with so many amazing Christian curriculums out there, why choose something wrapped up in controversy, whose owner worships a different God? Never made any sense to me.

[@hollys6821]

I agree with this video. I tried the Good and the Beautiful because of all the hype and was totally not into it. Neither were my kids. I find it weird when curriculum tells parents what to say, like word for word. Just not my style and I agree with watered down.

[@Jolene03]

Oh man, I'm with you on Abeka. I went through it in Christian school. It was rigorous, but I HATED teaching it. It's so . . .extra. haha too many charts, cards, worksheets. . .all the things! Who can keep track of all that when you have tiny kids all around?! Not this girl. But, yes. It is a good curriculum, if you like it 😁

[@babybellalovesbeagle]

Do you like Christiona ight?

[@LivingWithEve]

Did you mean Christian Light? I do like that one.

[@babybellalovesbeagle]

@@LivingWithEve yes ty

[@tleek07]

Just fyi, it’s not Ace (one word) it’s A.C.E. (Stands for Accelerated Christian Education) I grew up on it in a private church school in the’80s and it served its purpose to help churches and parents have an option that didn’t require teachers to teach everything in a time where there were few options. But I agree, so many options that are better.