02
Nov

Study Reveals Homeschool Students Score 37 Points Higher

By jessica 0 Comments
Categories: Uncategorized

Study Reveals Homeschool Students Score 37 Points Higher on Standardized Achievement Tests

A newly released study from the Home School Legal Defense Association shows that not only do homeschoolers incur expenses only 5 percent of what public schools spend on each student; they score nearly 40 points higher on standardized achievement tests.

“These results validate the dedication of thousands of homeschool parents who are giving their children the best education possible,” said Michael Smith, president of the advocacy organization.

The HSLDA said homeschooling in the United States already includes about 4 percent of the school-aged population and is growing at about 7 percent a year, now involving some two million children.

The report, “Progress Report 2009: Homeschool Academic Achievement and Demographics,” was conducted by Brian Ray of the National Home Education Research Institute.

27
Oct

Bridgeway extends High School Diploma Program

By jessica 0 Comments
Categories: Uncategorized

As a  homeschool academy Bridgeway is dedicated to helping high school drop outs get more than a GED.  Bridgeway knows they difference a real high school diploma will make.

Hope for High School Drop Outs

Bridgeway High School brings its proven high school diploma program to adults all across the United States.

Catasauqua, PA, October 1, 2009 – Bridgeway High School, an extension of Bridgeway Homeschool Academy gained its state license today to provide a high school diploma program to adults.  This license, combined with their national accreditation through the National Association of Private Schools, gives adults hope for a better future.

“Adults without a high school diploma are really struggling in this economy.  Competition is up and many times advancement within a company depends upon that high school diploma.  Our goal is to not only help each of our adult students gain that diploma, but to prepare them both academically and intellectually for whatever the future holds,” commented Jessica Parnell, President of Bridgeway High School.

With some city centers reporting a drop out rate from high school and junior high school as high as 79% and an average drop out rate in America’s largest cities at 50%, the need for an educational alternative for adults is huge (report by the National Center of Education Statistics).

In fact, according to a study by the National Center of Education Statistics, young adults with low education and skill levels are more likely to live in poverty and to receive government assistance.  In addition, high school dropouts are likely to stay on public assistance longer than those with at least a high school degree.  In addition, despite perceptions that a GED holds the same weight as a high school diploma, we are finding that this is simply not the case.  Many employers are seeking individuals who demonstrate a drive and a willingness to work hard.  Therefore, an adult with a GED rather than a high school diploma has an immediate hurdle to overcome in the eyes of a potential employer. Now with Bridgeway High School adults have a way out of the struggle and a means to improve their own economic situation.  Many see their high school diploma as a stepping stone to higher education, with the largest population of graduates moving on to study nursing.  Other graduates, such as Erica needed the diploma in order to move forward in her career:  “I am currently working as a C.N.A. (certified nursing assistant) with the opportunity to advance further now that I have earned my diploma.”

The adult high school program has already helped hundreds of students gain their high school diploma and not settle for a GED. With a high school diploma in hand they are well on their way to pursuing a life of excellence and productivity.

“We want to effect change in many more lives,” said Parnell, “The success of our students is our mission and they can feel it.  This is not a one size fits all type of high school diploma program. Instead, we work with each adult student individually to determine the courses he or she needs to achieve their goals.   And then we walk with them every step of the way to keep them focused and moving forward toward that mark.”

And the students seem to agree with that assessment as indicated by this comment from a Bridgeway high school adult high school diploma program graduate, Seth Addai:

“Bridgeway High School has the best Adult High School Diploma Program I have ever experienced in my life.  The program is well organized; all you need to do is to follow instructions.  The staff always provides friendly, helpful services and kept me motivated to keep moving forward. Right now I’m planning to go to School of Visual Arts to study undergraduate computer art.  I would recommend Bridgeway High School’s adult program to anybody—especially someone with a busy schedule.  Thank you Bridgeway High School! “

About Bridgeway High School
Bridgeway High School is a state licensed private school offering correspondence and online distance learning programs to adults seeking a high school diploma. Located in Catasauqua, PA, Bridgeway High School serves students across the United States and around the world.  To learn more visit www.adultdiploma.com, www.homeschoolacademy.com/homeschool-learning-programs/adult-high-school-diploma/ or call 1-800-863-1474.
Newsroom – Home School Information from Bridgeway Homeschool Academy
URL: http://www.homeschoolacademy.com/newsroom/

14
Sep

Bridgeway Voice – September 13, 2009

By jessica 1 Comment
Categories: Bridgeway Voice Newletter Archives
Tags: , , ,
 

 

 

 

 

 
Bridgeway collage

In this week’s edition of Bridgeway Voice
  • Mom and Homeschool Teacher: Two Hats or One?
  • Learn Quick Tips to Make Fitness Fun
  • Financial Set-Backs Can Be Re-Awakenings
  • Tips to Save Serious Cash at the Grocery Store

 
Mom and Homeschool Teacher: Two Hats or One?


Becky HillmanFrom Jessica’s BlogA reader recently asked me how to handle acting as both mother and teacher.  How do you wear both hats?  How do you switch back and forth between both roles?

My answer: you don’t.
 
As a mother, you have been the primary teacher to your child from the moment the doctor laid that precious baby in your arms.  It was you who taught them to say “please” and “thank-you”; it was you who taught them to walk, to talk, to get dressed, to be respectful, to obey rules, to eat . . . You taught them how to accept disappointment and to handle victory.

Did you ever consider switching roles between mother and teacher then?  Of course not! It was all in a day’s work and it has been rewarding!

This is how you must approach homeschooling.

You are a mother.  And as a mother, you have been a teacher for many years.  Perhaps you wonder how you can be effective as an academic teacher without teacher training?  If so, click here and read my post on Homeschooling Certification. Bottom line is, you can do it because you have been doing it!

Read More
Making Fitness Fun

Make Excercise FunIt’s the secret to keeping kids active. So, how can you achieve it?

Moving in Place: Have kids who like TV and video games? Institute a new house rule: Time Watching = Time Moving. Have them run in place, jump rope, or jump on a mini-trampoline while watching the tube.

Dancing with the Family: Take a break from folding laundry, and crank up some tunes the whole family will enjoy. Dancing burns lots of calories…and it’s fun!

Change YOUR Attitude: Parents’ own attitudes pack a big punch. It’s hard for a mom or dad to expect a child to get excited about exercise when he or she doesn’t follow suit. Kids who enjoy sports and exercise tend to stay active throughout their lives, especially if mom and dad are doing it and enjoying it right along with them

Older Kids: Challenges definitely loom larger as kids get older. Some studies have found that even eager young children’s attitudes towards physical activity can dwindle as they reach adolescence. In those cases, try replacing old habits with new ones gradually. And don’t throw in the towel when you meet resistance. A lot of times, they say ‘yes’ the third time around. Encourage them for what they do do.”

In the end the benefit to getting your child exercising is more than burning calories or building muscles; it also contributes to better self-esteem and an overall healthier kid.

Excerpt taken from metroparent.com
Setback or Financial Re-Awakening?

Financial Re-Awakening
Financial set-backs happen to us all. Realizing spending habits must change is not always easy–but it can be a time of financial re-birth. Perhaps this is an opportunity for you to reflect on how your family perceives and uses money.

Include family members in making decisions or changes that you feel are necessary for the financial well-being of your family. Determine which thing must be purchased now and what can wait until later. What’s most important?
 
Set the family up for success by thinking positively. Don’t use money to simply make everyone feel good when the chips are down. Everyone can help tighten the purse strings and eliminate needless spending. By taking time to look at how your family manages its finances, you might find that this setback actually puts you light years ahead.

 
Quick Links

 

Homeschool
 Tip: Check Out These Money Saving Websites

Money Saving Mom

Ready to save some serious money on your next grocery bill? 
 

Then you’ll want to check out these two websites:

 

moneysavingmom.com and krazycouponlady.com.

 

Both are filled with great coupon-clipping tips and ways to stretch your weekly grocery budget.

 

Warning: coupon-clipping can be habit-forming, so prepare to spend time sifting through all the helpful info!

08
Sep

Bridgeway Voice – September 6, 2009

By jessica 0 Comments
Categories: Bridgeway Voice Newletter Archives
___________________________________________
Dear Jessie,

In this week’s edition of Bridgeway Voice
  • Bridgeway Welcomes New Advisor Becky Hillman
  • Learn How Relationship-building Affects Your Child’s Responsiveness
  • New Hampshire Judge Orders Christian Homeschooler to Attend Public School
  • Tips to Make Grandparents Day Special
New and Exciting Changes at Bridgeway Academy

Becky Hillman We are excited to share that Rebecca Hillman, who stood in for Brenda Farrell during her leave of absence, will be joining the Bridgeway team full time!  As many of you know, Brenda and her family moved to New York this summer. She intended to continue her position as advisor to juniors and seniors remotely once she was fully settled in.

However, with the growth of our online high school and Brenda’s clear gift for all things computer related, she will shift to serve as the primary teacher/advisor to our online students.  We are confident that this shift will be a terrific one for all of our students.

Many of you have already expressed your appreciation for Becky, who is a welcome addition to the Bridgeway family. In addition to serving as the advisor to our juniors and seniors, Becky is also pursuing a Master’s Degree in Education at Cedar Crest College. Please feel free to give her a call or drop her a note with questions, concerns or words of encouragement!

We look forward to another great year!
Building Relationship Makes Kids More Responsive
Building Relationships With Our Children Many parents see a problem and start giving instructions immediately. This often means that they yell across the parking lot or bark commands from the other side of the house. We believe this approach isn’t the best. It’s not enough to see the need and tell someone to respond to it. That approach doesn’t demonstrate value for the relationship. Parenting isn’t just about getting tasks done; it’s about building relationships at the same time.Start by getting close to your child. Most of the time this means that before you give an instruction you call your child over to you. This presents a problem in many young families because preschoolers often don’t come when they’re called. The fact is, even older children don’t come when they’re called unless they are taught to do so.Take time to teach your children how to come when you call them. It takes practice but it’s well worth the work. Parents often ask, “What do I do in the grocery store when I call my preschooler and he runs away?” Well, the grocery store isn’t the place to practice. That’s the final exam! By practicing over and over at home and at the park, children are then able to respond in public.

Like every step in a good instruction routine, getting close to each other requires changes from both child and parent. Children also find it tempting to yell across the house. Now children learn that dialogue only takes place when relationship has been established through eye contact and being physically close together. Sometimes it’s the small things that demonstrate that a parent cares or that a child is willing to listen. Putting down the paper, looking up from the computer, or just turning to face your child before you speak communicates the importance of what you are about to say.

Some parents report major improvement in a child’s responsiveness when they just implement this step and give instructions only when the child is within a few feet. Sometimes that little nonverbal statement about your relationship is all that’s needed to gain a more cooperative attitude from your child.

Excerpt taken from biblicalparenting.org
Building Relationships With Our Children Many parents see a problem and start giving instructions immediately. This often means that they yell across the parking lot or bark commands from the other side of the house. We believe this approach isn’t the best. It’s not enough to see the need and tell someone to respond to it. That approach doesn’t demonstrate value for the relationship. Parenting isn’t just about getting tasks done; it’s about building relationships at the same time.Start by getting close to your child. Most of the time this means that before you give an instruction you call your child over to you. This presents a problem in many young families because preschoolers often don’t come when they’re called. The fact is, even older children don’t come when they’re called unless they are taught to do so.

Take time to teach your children how to come when you call them. It takes practice but it’s well worth the work. Parents often ask, “What do I do in the grocery store when I call my preschooler and he runs away?” Well, the grocery store isn’t the place to practice. That’s the final exam! By practicing over and over at home and at the park, children are then able to respond in public.

Like every step in a good instruction routine, getting close to each other requires changes from both child and parent. Children also find it tempting to yell across the house. Now children learn that dialogue only takes place when relationship has been established through eye contact and being physically close together. Sometimes it’s the small things that demonstrate that a parent cares or that a child is willing to listen. Putting down the paper, looking up from the computer, or just turning to face your child before you speak communicates the importance of what you are about to say.

Some parents report major improvement in a child’s responsiveness when they just implement this step and give instructions only when the child is within a few feet. Sometimes that little nonverbal statement about your relationship is all that’s needed to gain a more cooperative attitude from your child.

Excerpt taken from biblicalparenting.org
Court Orders Homeschooler to Attend Public School

Homeschooler Ordered to Attend Public School

A Christian homeschool girl in New Hampshire has been ordered into government-run public school for having “sincerely held” religious beliefs — and the Alliance Defense Fund is troubled by the ruling.

The case involves divorced couple Martin Kurowski and Brenda Voydatch and their 10-year-old daughter, Amanda. The couple split in 1999 when they were living in Massachusetts, and the proceedings moved to New Hampshire after Voydatch relocated to that state with her daughter in 2002.

Although Voydatch has primary custody over Amanda, both parents agreed to a parenting plan that included joint decision-making responsibility. A court-appointed guardian served as a mediator.

A source of contention between the parents has been the mother’s decision to home school Amanda since first grade. Amanda’s father believes she should be sent to public school, while the mother is adamant about home schooling. Since both parents have failed to reach common ground, the issue moved to the court.

The situation was then analyzed by the court-appointed guardian, who made a recommendation to the court. During the evaluation process it was determined that Amanda was excelling in her schooling and used curriculum that was approved by her school district. The curriculum used in her home schooling was created by certified teachers, and Amanda routinely took standardized tests.

Furthermore, Amanda attended her local public school to take art, Spanish, and P.E. classes. Her public school instructors also commented on the fact that Amanda was well-rounded in her social skills. But a sticking point arose concerning Voydatch’s Christian faith.

Read More
Quick Links

Da Vinci Science Center - Free Event - 9/13

Free Event for Lehigh Valley Residents

Kids Discovery Expo
Saturday, Sept. 12
11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Homeschool
Tip: Make Grandparents Day Special

Sunday, September 13

September 13 is Grandparents Day

Marian McQuade founded National Grandparents Day in 1973. In addition to honoring our grandparents, the purpose of this special day is to help children become aware of the strength, wisdom, and guidance afforded to them by their grandparents. Want to learn more about making this day extra-special for the grandparents in your life? Visit the official Grandparents Day website.

24
Aug

Bridgeway Voice – August 23, 2009

By jessica 0 Comments
Categories: Bridgeway Voice Newletter Archives
Bridgeway collage

In this week’s edition of Bridgeway Voice
  • Understand Why We Get Angry - Spot Behavior Patterns and Learn How to Deal 
  • Stressed Out? Try Hands-On Stress Relief
  • Homeschool Tip: An Invaluable Resource for High School Students 

 

 
Understanding Why We Get Angry

Understanding Why We Get Angry One of the helpful steps in equipping children to control their anger is to recognize four causes of anger. After kids have settled down and you debrief with them about their anger, talk about what’s causing it. You and your child may see patterns and then be able to head off the problem earlier next time.1) Blocked Goals. This is the kind of thing that happens to you, as a parent, when you want to do a project in the playroom and find that Billy has left his Legos all over the floor and you keep stepping on them. Or, Billy may want to play with his train set only to find that his sister is using it first. These are blocked goals.2) Violated Rights. That’s when you, as a parent, are in the bathroom and your daughter keeps knocking on the door. You believe you have the right to go to the bathroom in peace. Your daughter may get angry because her brother came into her room and took her favorite CD. Those are violated rights.

3) Unmet Expectations. You had expected that when you got home you would be able to rest but instead you find a big mess. Or Jackie thought she would be going to McDonalds but instead you chose to go to Pizza Hut. Those are unmet expectations.

4) Experiencing Unfairness. When someone takes a toy from a younger child, you may feel angry as a parent because you see unfairness. Or, Tom may feel angry with his teacher because she picked someone else for a privilege he thought he deserved. Those unfair situations can provoke anger.

Whatever the situation, after a child has settled down, talk about the cause. Discuss the value of sacrificing rights, readjusting goals or expectations, and handling unfairness in a godly way. By examining the causes of anger, you can help children gain greater perspective and develop longer lasting strategies for managing their emotions.
 
Excerpt taken from biblicalparenting.org

 
Quick Hands-On Stress Relief

Hands-on Stress ReliefHomeschooling can be strenuous at times. But, if you’ve got a minute, you can get a message – a self-massage, that is. These moves can help relieve tension around your head, neck, shoulders, and hands.
The Scalp Soother. Place thumbs behind your ears and spread your fingers on top of your head. Move your scalp back and forth slightly by making circles with your fingertips for 15-20 seconds.
 

The Eye Easer. Close your eyes and place your ring finger directly under you eyebrow, near the bridge of your nose. Slowly increase pressure for five seconds, then gently release. Repeat 2-3 times.

  

 

 

 
The Shoulder Saver. Place your left hand on the right side of your neck by your shoulder. Press fingers firmly into the muscle while tuckig your chin in toward your chest. Hold this position for 10 seconds, release, and then repeat on the left side.
 
The Palm Pleaser. Lace your fingers together, leaving thumbs free. Slowly knead your left thumb into the palm of your right hand for 20-30 seconds. Then repeat on your left hand.
 
Exerpt taken from TopHealth – The Health Promotion and Wellness Newsletter, May 2008

 

 
 
Quick Links

 

 

 

Homeschool
 Tip for High Schoolers

Tip for High Schoolers

If your high school student is looking for help with homework, ideas for papers, research tools, organization skills and ideas, online libraries, study tips, help with college placement or scholarships, or almost anything else you can imagine, then you want to visit this site: onlinecolleges.net 

 

 

 

 

18
Aug

Bridgeway Voice – August 16, 2009

By jessica 0 Comments
Categories: Bridgeway Voice Newletter Archives
Tags: , ,
 

In this week’s edition of Bridgeway Voice
  • Study Confirms Homeschoolers Score Higher on Achievement Tests 
  • Preschoolers & Sleep: Tips for Helping Your Child Get the Rest They Need
  • Homeschool Tip: Physical Education – Fitting Exercise into Your Busy Schedule

 

 

 
New Study Confirms Homeschoolers Score Higher on Achievement Tests

Study Confirms Homeschoolers Score Higher  A newly released study from the Home School Legal Defense Association shows that homeschoolers score nearly 40 points higher on standardized achievement tests than public school students. 

 

“These results validate the dedication of thousands of homeschool parents who are giving their children the best education possible,” said Michael Smith, president of the advocacy organization.

The HSLDA said homeschooling in the United States already includes about 4 percent of the school-aged population and is growing at about 7 percent a year, now involving some two million children.
The report, Progress Report 2009: Homeschool Academic Achievement and Demographics, was conducted by Brian Ray of the National Home Education Research Institute. The survey included 11,739 homeschool students in all 50 states for the 2007-2009 academic year, and the HSLDA said the results were consistent with previous studies on homeschoolers’ achievements.

 

Read More

 
Sleep & Preschoolers

Sleeping Tips for PreschoolersSleep helps kids grow strong and healthy. Preschoolers typically sleep about 10 – 12 hours during each 24-hour period, but there’s no reason to be rigid about which 10 - 12 hours they are. At this stage, the important thing is to help your child develop good habits for getting to sleep.
 
Establishing a Bedtime Routine - A bedtime routine is a great way to ensure that your preschooler gets enough sleep. Here are a few things to keep in mind when you’re setting up that routine:
  1. Include a winding-down period during the half hour before bedtime.
  2. Stick to a bedtime, alerting your child both half an hour and 10 minutes beforehand.
  3. Keep consistent playtimes and mealtimes.
  4. Avoid stimulants, such as caffeine, near bedtime.
  5. Make the bedroom quiet, cozy, and conducive to sleeping.
  6. Limit food and drink before bedtime. 

A Note on Naps – Most preschoolers still need naps during the day, as they’re busy playing and exploring. If they can’t fall asleep, just having “quite time” to relax will be beneficial (for both of you).

 
Excerpt taken from Family Health – Sleep & Preschoolers, Curious Parents, Aug. 2008

 

 

 

 

 

 
 
Quick Links

 

 

 

Homeschool

 Tip: Phys Ed

Phys Ed Tips

Fitting Exercise Time into Your Busy Schedule
  •  Schedule “recess” just as you would any other subject. Give your kids time to head out and play and don’t hesitate to join them now and then! Exercise will have a positive impact on your entire day.
  • Even if you feel as though core subjects are taking too long and there’s just no time for a break, just do it! This is especially important in the early stages of your program as a consistent schedule builds the foundation for success.
  • Be sure to schedule at least two official “Physical Education” classes a week. Whether you schedule them in the morning, afternoon or evening, try to schedule them at the same time each day. This will help you develop a regular habit.
  • Do not overdo it. Physical Education does not need to be a carefully planned class. Take a walk, get on the bikes, join a community sports team, grab a workout video, play games in the backyard . . . all of these activities require minimal planning and can help refresh the mind. 

     

 

 

 

 

10
Aug

Bridgeway Voice – 8/9/09

By jessica 0 Comments
Categories: Bridgeway Voice Newletter Archives
Tags: , , ,

In this week’s edition of Bridgeway Voice
  • Motivating Your Homeschooler 
  • Math Begins With Your Toddler
  • Homeschool Tip: Dad, You Are Important!

 
Motivating Your Homeschooler

Motivating Your HomeschoolerHaving trouble motivating your child? When it’s time to do school work is your child less than enthusiastic?

 

You are not alone. Here are a few good tips and suggestions from Jessica Parnell, Principal of Bridgeway Academy, that will make your homeschooling experience more fun and hassle-free.

 
Some children need quiet and structure in order to learn. 
If this describes your child, arrange your house so that it is “education-friendly”. Have a separate room that is used just for homeschooling. Keep the atmosphere educational. Make sure all your supplies are kept in one area and not all over the house. Keep unnecessary distractions away from the study area.

 
Other children work better in a more chaotic atmosphere,
or in an environment that allows them to get up and move. If this describes your child, give him freedom to find a place that works. Standing up at the counter, rolled up in a ball under a table, sprawled out on the living room floor . . .. This is tough on a parent who needs structure (like me), but if you can wrap your arms around it, it can mean the difference between constant struggle and enthusiastic learning. 
There are many avenues of learning today, such as research papers, projects, speeches, field trips, Internet searches, interviews, library visits, etc. Be creative; children learn in different ways. Many times, just giving your child the freedom to direct the learning can provide motivation as well as insight into the passions and strengths of your child.
Make learning fun!
Every subject does not have to be taught the same way. Use creative methods of teaching. Lecturing, workbooks, chalkboards, dry erase boards, hands-on activities are just the beginning. Your goal is to inspire a love for learning that will be life long. Making it enjoyable is a great first step. The Internet has many websites geared just for children. There are many educational games out there as well that can be played independently or as a family.

Read More

 
Gear your studies and projects to your child’s interests.
Math Begins With Your Toddler

Math Begins With Your ToddlerWhat Most Homeschool Parents Do Naturally is Setting the Stage For Future Success in Math.
Most homeschooling families understand that homeschooling does not have to begin in kindergarten. In fact, most of us are guilty of starting our children a little too young. However, setting the stage for future homeschool success in reading and math begins as early as birth when we begin to interact with our children consistent chatter, reading books, counting, playing, coloring and building together these are all contributions to the future success of your kids.
 
How can you encourage this connection?

 

Your youngest children can begin to make these connections through children s stories. Find books that contain numbers in the title or that require your child to count as they read with you. Look for stories that include the concepts of ordering, relationships and patterns. Books like The Three Little Pigs, The Very Busy Spider or Make Way for Ducklings provide opportunities for counting, for determining patterns and/or evaluating relationships – areas that homeschooling parents love!

 

 
Quick Links

 

Homeschool
 Tip: Dad, You Are Important!

Homeschool Dads

Here are some resources for homeschool dads:
 
Homeschooldads.com - Written by a homeschool dad specifically for dads who take care of the homeschooling.

 

dads.org – In addition to homeschool info, find tips on marriage, faith, and more.

 

Fatherville – A site for dads that covers a variety of topics, but has a specific section for homeschool dads.  No matter your role, you are important and very necessary to the success of your homeschool program. 

04
Aug

Bridgeway Voice 8/2/2009

By daansys 0 Comments
Categories: Bridgeway Voice Newletter Archives
Tags: , , , ,
 

In this week’s edition of Bridgeway Voice
  • Learn about the five love languages 
  • Discover your child’s love language
  • Cool Treats: Banana Pudding Pops 

 
Love Speaks Many Languages

Children express and receive love in different ways–some through acts of service; others through affirming words; still others through gifts, quality time or physical touch. Each of these expressions of love represents a different “language.” By understanding the five love languages, we can more easily discern the emotional needs of our children. Here’s a brief description of each love language: Your Child's Love Language

 
Words of affirmation. 

Compliments such as “Your hair looks nice today!” or “Great game tonight!” go a long way with a child who thrives on praise. Your words can focus on personality, accomplishments, outward appearance or anything else that affirms.
 
Acts of service. 

Learn which acts of service are important to your child. Does he feel loved when you help him with homework? Or teach him to throw a ball? Once you’ve discovered the acts of service your child most appreciates, perform them often. 

 

Gifts. Children with this love language treasure gifts as a tangible token of affection. Gifts don’t need to be expensive or given everyday, but recognizing that a child prefers to be rewarded with a pack of gum rather than a hug is an important step in building communication. 

 
Quality time. Children who speak this love language seek undivided attention. The activity is not important; the time together is. For a child with siblings, one-on-one time may be difficult. He needs to know that he is worthy of your undivided attention.
 
Physical touch. As children get older, they still long for physical attention–something as simple as a touch on the arm, a pat on the back, a hug. These gestures are especially important to the child with this love language. He wants to literally feel your love.
 
Excerpt from Love Speaks Many Languages by Heidi Krumenauer, Focus on the Family: Aug./Sept. 2009.
Cool Treats: Banana Pudding Pops

Banana Pudding PopsThese banana popsicles taste rich and decadent but are low-fat and really easy to make. 
 
Ingredients
  • 1/3 C. light brown sugar
  • 2 Tbsp. cornstarch
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 C. low-fat milk
  • 2 tsp. vanilla extract
  • 2 C. (about 2 large) diced bananas

Directions

  1.  Whisk sugar to taste, cornstarch, and salt in a large saucepan. Add milk and whisk until combined. Bring to a boil over medium heat, whisking occasionally. Boil, whisking constantly, for 1 minute. Remove from the heat and stir in vanilla.
  2.  Put about half the pudding in a food processor or blender and add bananas. Process until smooth. (Use caution when pureeing hot liquids.) Stir the mixture back into the remaining pudding.
  3. Divide the mixture among freezer-pop molds. Insert the sticks and freeze until completely firm, about 6 hours. Dip the molds briefly in hot water before unmolding.

     

 
Quick Links

 

Parent Tip: Discover Your Child’s Love Language

Discover Your Child's Love Language

How can you figure out which language your children speak most fluently? Here are a few clues to help in your discovery: 
  • Observe how your child expresses love to you. Be particularly aware of languages that aren’t natural to you.
  • Watch how she expresses love to others.
  • Listen to what your child requests most often. As you learn to interpret his requests, you may hear his primary love language.
  • Listen to your child’s most frequent complaints. When you stop to consider his whining and grumbling, the results may surprise you. His complaints may be related to one of the love languages.
  • Put your child in situations that offer a choice between two love languages. The one he chooses most often may be his primary love language.

28
Jul

Bridgeway Voice 7/26/09

By jessica 0 Comments
Categories: Bridgeway Voice Newletter Archives
Tags: , , , ,
 
 

In this week’s edition of Bridgeway Voice
  • Boost Your Brainpower 
  • Teach your Children the Detriments of Lying
  • Words of Wisdom from Albert Einstein
  • Homeschooling Tip: Music Soothes the Smallest Ears

 

 
Boost Your Brainpower

 Boost Your Brainpower  

Do you sometimes feel as if your brain is running on empty? Here’s how to keep it in shape so you can pump up your problem-solving abilities, fight forgetfulness, and think more clearly and creatively:
 
Practice mentally. Studies of athletes indicate that imagining a tennis serve or ski run between competitions can boost performance. Possible reason: Mental rehearsals may build mental “muscle” by sparking the brain connections needed during the real thing. 

 
Focus your attention. To help remember “where”: If you tend to misplace your car keys, for example, say to yourself, “I’m placing the keys on the shelf by the hallway mirror.” To help remember “when”: Note the weather, the day’s headlines, or what you’re wearing at the time of performing a task.
 
Use it or lose it. Research suggests that as you age, you can reverse a decline in thinking abilities by becoming more mentally active. Smart moves: Learn a new language, study a new subject, play games like checkers, and do crosswords and other puzzles. 

 
 
Keep Fit. Evidence shows that people in their 70s and 80s who stay healthy can expand their brainpower – and easily match the mental abilities of a 30-year-old. Helpful: Keep physically active, manage stress and maintain a positive attitude.
 
Excerpt taken from TopHealth, Health Promotion and Wellness Newsletter, October 2008

 

 

 

 

 

 
Lying: A Definition

 

 

Bridgeway MastheadTruth is foundational to relationships. It helps us know and understand others so that we can interact with them effectively. When people are honest and tell the truth, we learn to trust them. When a person lies, our thinking about that person changes. Trust is broken. This is particularly hurtful when it’s our children who break our trust. 
We want to believe our kids. We want to give them the benefit of the doubt. We want to trust them. When a child lies, we’re stuck. We ask, “How can she do this to me? Why would he lie to me?” Our very relationship feels threatened. 

Lying is an attack on our closeness with our children. It makes us feel angry and betrayed. But the solution is not to yell, or punish, or demand the truth. Overpowering or forcing specific words will do little to develop integrity in our children. What we need is a plan. We need to understand the deeper problem and get to the heart of our children.

Deception is a term we use to describe a number of dishonest words or actions. Lying is only one piece of the bigger puzzle. Some people define lying as saying something that is not true, but we believe lying has more to do with the intent of the speaker. The person who reports inaccurate information is just mistaken unless he intends to deceive. We believe that lying is best defined this way:

Lying:  Stating something, either written, oral, or with other signals, with the intent to mislead or deceive.Having honest discussions about what lying is and how it damages relationship is important in family life. There are many other important strategies for fighting the battle against lying but an important one is to dialogue about this important issue. Now, that doesn’t simply mean lecturing after a lie. It means taking time in non-discipline moments to do some helpful teaching.

 

 
Excerpt taken from Good and Angry: Exchanging Frustration for Character In You and Your Kids by Dr. Scott Turansky
and Joanne Miller, RN, BSN via biblicalparenting.org

 

 
Words of Wisdom

 

  

Bridgeway Masthead“Great spirits have always encountered violent opposition from mediocre minds.” 

 

 

Albert Einstein 

 
 
Quick Links
 

 

 

 

Homeschooling Tip

Preschooler Listening to Music
 

Music has an amazing effect on preschoolers. Not only is music soothing to their emotions, but is also seems to enhance young children’s developing cognitive abilities. Here are some ways to infuse a little harmony into your day:
 
  • Set aside a special time of day to listen to music–perhaps during playtime or bath time.
  • Play classical music during nap time and bedtime.
  • Listen to music in the car or turn off the CD player and sing together unaccompanied.
  • Think back on songs you liked as a child and share them with your kids.
  • Play musical games like The Hokey Pokey, Farmer in the Dell and London Bridge is Falling Down.

by Susan Lemons, Home School Enrichment, Issue #33: May/June 2008.

 

 

28
Jul

Online High School Program New from Bridgeway Academy

By daansys 3 Comments
Categories: Academies
Tags: , , , ,

Online High School Program

All online high school courses were developed based on the way high school students think and learn:
  • Direct instruction by master teachers via high-quality video
  • Flash-based, interactive activities to teach and review concepts.
  • A teen-friendly conversational style to capture and hold students’ attention.
  • Glossaries of terms that are pronounced, defined, and in some cases illustrated.
  • Writing activities and worksheets to encourage critical thinking, writing, and study skills.

Online high school courses are a popular choice among high school students seeking to move ahead in their studies, to engage in interactive studies, to enjoy online video instruction and enrichments and to set their own schedule for success.

To ensure a rigorous and successful online high school experience, Bridgeway Academy has partnered with CompassLearning, a leader in innovative educational software solutions and our number one choice for online high school programs. This research-based curriculum is aligned with state and national standards and supports multiple learning styles and levels of achievement.

Best of all, your advisor can customize the program and assess your student’s progress by providing a variety of lessons, tests and quizzes that are all completed online.

ONLINE HIGH SCHOOL LANGUAGE ARTS

You and your advisor will choose from English I, English II, English III – American Literature, English IV – English Literature

  • Features writing activities to appeal to students’ imaginations and interests
  • Includes regular comprehension checks to ensure that students stay on track
  • Uses a balance of fiction and non-fiction
  • Includes research process instruction
  • Includes an online toolkit that contains a Wordsmyth dictionary and thesaurus
ONLINE HIGH SCHOOL MATHEMATICS

Your advisor will work with you to select the best online courses for your student. Courses include:
Remedial Math, Pre-Algebra, Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, Pre-Calculus (Includes Trigonometry)

  • Your advisor can design your course to focus on foundational skills to support struggling learners
  • Emphasizes repetition and practice of key skills
  • Includes an online toolkit containing a calculator, conversion chart, and postulate and theorem chart for geometry
ONLINE HIGH SCHOOL SCIENCE

You and your advisor will select from Earth Space Science, Physical Science, Biology, Chemistry, Physics

  • Includes scientific foundation courses necessary for further scientific study
  • Defines concepts both verbally and visually to create a strong scientific language foundation
  • Features an online toolkit that includes a formula chart, conversion chart, periodic table and calculator
  • Includes activities that provide practice using scientific method
  • Add a lab course for just $195.00 (includes lab kit with all necessary materials and a detailed lab manual)
ONLINE HIGH SCHOOL SOCIAL STUDIES

Your advisor will work with you to select the best online courses for your student.
U.S. History (to 1850), U.S. History (1850 – Present), U.S. Government, World History

  • Presents history with a narrative, with components that intertwine
  • Emphasizes thematic as well as chronological elements
  • Includes opportunities for writing assignments where students work on higher-level thinking skills, including synthesis and analysis
  • Features an online toolkit that includes a document set, atlas, glossary, biograhies, and a timeline of significant events

Advanced/AP Online High School Program

The Advanced/AP online high school program is designed to help students not only develop critical-thinking skills that ensure future success, but also get a head start on college-level work. These courses offer the same level of high-tech interactivity and engagement as the other online classes, but with greater depth, detail, and challenge. Powered by Thinkwell®, each lesson has the feel of a personalized one-on-one lecture.

ONLINE HIGH SCHOOL ADVANCED/AP COURSES:

Mathematics – Beginning Algebra, Intermediate Algebra, College Algebra, Pre-Calculus, Trigonometry, Calculus
Science – Physics I, Biology
Social Studies – American Governement, Microeconomics, Macroeconomics
Humanities – Public Speaking

More Online High School Features

Odyssey Writer – This helps homeschool students organize their written assignments with tools like note cards to guide them through brainstorming, outlining, drafting, and revision processes.

Critical Mistakes Framework – This provides high school students with item-specific feedback whether they answer a question correctly or incorrectly. Based on research that indicates the errors students are most likely to make, it not only reinforces correct answers but also explains what makes a wrong answer wrong.

Managing & Reporting – Your advisor will stay completely up to date with each student’s performance and progress, identify mastered and non-mastered objectives, monitor your child’s learning path, and ensure that your student remains current with the program.

We are confident that both parents and students will love our proven online high school program. And our introductory special makes it the most affordable online high school program currently available.

Online High School Dual Enrollment Program

Dual Enrollment – Allows students to take online college level courses for both high school and college credit. A terrific companion to our online high school program, students enjoy the rigors of college level academics and the benefit of dual credit. Online High School.

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