Can anyone tell me a bit about this? I was looking at this and it seems as though it is just a lot of reading. Is there anything included that teaches them their letters, numbers, etc., or are they expected to already know these things and have learned them at 3? Have any of you used this program? Do you like it? I am thinking of purchasing it, but would love to know if it is the right decision for us since there is really only one lesson plan to view on their site. I would love to see some examples of the books, but havne't found it on their site yet. If you have used it, did you purchase the whole kit or just parts?
We're finishing Songlight K for both of my kids and they love it! It is very reading intensive, but it also teaches the kids to learn to love to sit and read. Instead of a textbook that explains things, you go to different books and learn (teaching them to go to other sources than just textbooks). As they get older through Sonlight, History is taught through reading various biographies and literature rather than just a standard textbook. You do learn letters, numbers, etc. and they make it really fun. The beauty of Sonlight is the instructor's guide (which is included in the sets). It has the whole year mapped out for you in every subject. You can turn to any week, any day and have your schedule of what to complete in each subject. It's also really flexible (4-days a week or 5-days a week), and you can tailor their schedule for what works best for you. I know a lot of homeschool Moms that spend hours just getting their schedules ready and compiling all of the materials...Sonlight does that for you. I purchased the K set for my first time and I'm glad I did. We're preparing to order the 1st grade set, also. I do know some people that buy the instructor's guide and get the books through the library or look for used books on the Sonlight boards or elsewhere. It can save some money to go that route...if you have the time. I've been really happy with Sonlight so far.
I don't know much about the curriculum, but just wanted to add that you don't have to buy a curriculum to teach your child their letters, sounds, and numbers. They are basic concepts that you can teach on your own very easily.
Sonlight is very heavy on the reading/reading to the kiddio. I forget if it's on their website or in their catalog they have a list of reasons why you SHOULDN'T use Sonlight. :lol: For a 4 year old....I wouldn't buy into some of the more expensive curriculums out there. Hit Wal-mart or order online some of the workbooks for that level. I found the PreK and K ones to be similiar in a lot of area so...if she moves to a K book at 4...not a big deal. Save your money for the next couple of years and beyond. :wink: Ages 3-6 are the best because "school" is lot's of fun stuff. Crafts and being silly. I'd be happy to give you ideas for a 4 year old. I'd recommend a theme for the week and use that for crafts and stories - kids love that. Don't feel like you have to put your math into that same bucket. I use to scratch my head about these people that did unit studies and wonder about math. lol Oh the things we learn..... Our educational store had an alphabet bulletin border that has a set rectangle for each letter. It was around $4 for around 20 of these. I put one up, I cut two up for matching game, when the 3 year old gets older we can play go fish, etc....all for the $4. Gotta like that! Anyway...the ideas go on forever.......
