Welcome

Welcome to our homeschool blog. We wanted to share with family and friends some of the things we are learning and doing during our homeschooling days. We have named our school Vanderhoof School of Excellence because we strive to do all things excellently for our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

When my husband and I were researching different styles and methods of homeschooling there were three that we were drawn to. The Charlotte Mason style, Unit Studies, and Classical Education. We really appreciated the gentleness of the Charlotte Mason style. Also, both of our children are creative and our family is one that enjoys outdoor things. Unit studies appealed to us because we could take the things our sons are interested in and use it to build the curricula around. It seemed that this would develop curiosity, a love of learning, and leave room for creativity. The Classical Method appealed to us because of the discipline and learning solid principles to use for thinking. We want to raise children who are not told what to think, but learn how to think for themselves.

As my husband and I talked about the method or style we would use, we could not let go of any of these three. That was a struggle for us until we discovered My Father's World curricula. It is a combination of Charlotte Mason, Unit Study, and Classical Education. We are also using Apologia Science and Saxon Math.

After talking it over with my husband and children we decided to use our real names instead of nick names. Basically Vic and I decided to let our sons decide and they decided they did not want to have nicknames.

Meet our family. Vic is the hard working dad and principal. He has a lawn care and floor care business and works various jobs when needed to pay the bills of the family. He can often be seen telling stories, reviewing lessons from the day, practicing drill with our oldest son, and whatever else he needs to help make things work around here. Caleb is our oldest son. He is 7 years old and is now learning to read. Caleb is curious, determined, creative, and energetic. When he has free time he can often be found making radio shows on his cassette recorder, making up stories, drawing, and building with Legos. Simeon is a vibrant four year old. He enjoys puzzles, drawing, playing with sticker books, and snuggling while listening to stories. Then there is Charity also known as Mom or homeschool teacher. After eight and a half years as a mental health/ substance abuse therapist she was burnt out so came home to be with her children. She is still adjusting and learning how to juggle the responsibilities of a household, homeschooling, and being a supportive wife to her husband.

We look forward to sharing the adventure of homeschooling with you. I hope you will enjoy our pictures, challenges, good days, bad days, and all that falls in the middle.