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I just read your response and think, hmm, maybe we should do Bigger. I SO don't want to miss all that it is Beyond, but my ds not only is reading well, but already does a lot of writing. (Since we're new to HOD, we were already doing R&S, and as part of their curriculum, he's been doing 4 workbook ...

I can see your thinking here, and this has really been a great discussion that is sure to help others as they consider placement too. :D I do agree with the general advice given by the ladies not to skip Beyond. It is a stepping stone for the increased writing in Bigger Hearts, as well as many othe...

Beyond is such a neat program and provides a wonderful background for Bigger. He's young. I wouldn't rush him through what he is able to "handle." I'd slow down and let him "savor" what he is learning. You can always add in additional independent reading for him or let him explore a science topic t...

We used Rod and Staff phonics (along with their reading) and loved it. It's not at all CM'ish, but It was a perfect fit for our ds at that stage of our homeschooling (and we didn't know about HOD at the time), plus I learned so much that I never remember learning in school. When we started, my ds wa...

I have a ds who has an August birthday. We started K just when he turned five, with him doing Saxon Math, grade 1, thinking that was the best for him, since he is very bright. Academically, he did great, but emotionally, he was still a very young 5. After considerable prayer and discussion, my husba...

I have no experience with Phonics programs at all. My oldest played on starfall and picked up reader books; now she reads. I skipped Phonics with her. I know I'm not going to be able to do that with my youngest, so can you please tell me why you've chosen R&S for English/Grammar and not Phonics? I ...

Whoa! That is fast! I'm so glad you and your little boy are enjoying it all. It is certainly something to think about. Are you still doing Beyond for Basics or are you doing your own thing there? Yes, it is fast. :shock: It only works because my ds is advanced and I know my purpose is just to give ...

Just out of interest, what is your 'fast speed mini-version'? It had crossed my mind to try something similar. Basically, I have been doing one unit every two days. Each day, we complete 2-3 days of the "Reading through History" block and 2-3 days of the "Storytime" block. I also read the Bible ver...

My boys are bright, capable, clever and insightful but they're sensitive. This is my son! Though he's extremely bright, I've had to be very careful what I read to him. I can reassure you that every single one of the reading suggestions I've used from HoD has been spot on and loved by both ds and me...

Thank you all so much!! This is just the kind of insight I wanted and needed. I actually feel relieved to continue with the ERS and your responses helped me to see how the extra time will definitely benefit my son. Carrie, I find it so amazing that you, as the author of the curriculum, take your per...

I only have a 7 year old and a 3 year old, but what has helped me tremendously is using a schedule. Basically, I alternate between the two children. For example, my DD will have quiet playtime while I do a phonics lesson with DS. Then, we'll switch and DS will work independently in his phonics workb...

Thank you for your helpful reply. I found your insight very valuable.

I could use some seasoned advice from those who have been through the Emerging Readers set and are using DITHOR. I currently am using the ERS with DS, who is just finishing up 1st grade. DS is doing very well with the ERS and absolutely loves reading the books. I am starting to second guess myself, ...