Apologia, Debra Bell

I'm guessing that we are all familiar with Apologia as the provider of science curriculum, but did you know that Apologia Press offers resources for homeschooling parents? One of them is a book that they have republished, an updated version of Debra Bell's "The Ultimate Guide to Homeschooling" $20.00

Now, I have to admit, that this resource is new to me, so it's interesting to read it, as someone who is not new to homeschooling..... ;)


Here is a rundown of the general topics covered... if you want more specifics of the topics covered, you can download a pdf of the entire Table of Contents

• Part 1: Homeschooling: Is It for You?
• Part 2: Choosing a Curriculum
• Part 3: Organization and Planning
• Part 4: Preventing Burnout
• Part 5: What to Teach—When and How
• Part 6: Homeschooling Teens
• Part 7: Computers in the Homeschool
• Part 8: Creative Solutions
• Part 9: Measuring Your Success
• Part 10: Resource Guide

There is a lot of useful information jam-packed into what is a pretty "readable" book. There are a number of examples that were specific to the Bell household, some of which I found more useful (Goal-setting and evaluation, for instance), and others that were less useful to me (There seems to be a heavy emphasis on the use of co-ops, and while co-ops can be great, I don't think that they are across-the-board a perfect fit for every family).

I am hoping this summer to have more time to go through this book with a highlighter in hand, to help me quickly reference the portions that I find to be most helpful~ There should be a fair amount of "color" when I am done! There are so many resources, books and websites listed that I haven't had time to check out, that I'm glad they are listed in this guide. In addition to those listed throughout the book, there is a "resource guide" (Part 10) of 60+ pages that highlight the best organizations, resources, periodicals, publishers, suppliers, as well as listings for academic and athletic contests and competitions.

This would be an excellent addition to any homeschool group library, and could be a great "guide" for a new homeschooling family. I think my only pet peeve with this book is the inclusion of the word "ultimate" in the title, because I don't think ANY resource can/should claim that~ ;)

For my fellow Crew-members' take on the "Ultimate Guide", check out the TOS Crew Blog.
As always, I hope that this review will help you to make the best decisions while preparing and researching this job of schooling at home!
Blessings~

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this item/service for free as part of the TOS Crew Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."