ENOCH of New Jersey e-Newsletter

August 2010

From the President’s Desk

Dear Homeschoolers of NJ,

As you can see above ENOCH had to change the date of our convention. Please mark your calendars. The speakers for next year are Andrew Pudewa, Institute for Excellence in Writing and Kevin Swanson of Generations with Vision.
The summer is almost over and many are gearing up toward the new school year.  To help parents new to homeschooling we have included an article “Why Should You Homeschool?” by Dr Bruce Eagleson.  For those needing words of encouragement, check the article “Five Values of Successful Homeschooling” by Cary Schmidt.
ENOCH looks forward to serving homeschoolers throughout this next school year.

Looking toward a new year,
Richard Millward
President

Encouraging Words From Homeschoolers Across the Nation

Five Values of Successful Homeschooling
By Cary Schmidt 

Educating Your Children with a Winning Philosophy

Recently I had the privilege of meeting with a wonderful group of families in our church that homeschool their children. I fully believe in the value of traditional, Christian education and schooling, but I also have respect for Christian parents who, out of necessity or by preference, choose to homeschool. I shared with these families a short list of values that I’ve seen in successful homeschool families.

This list flows from family counsel, studying the home, and seeing both the blessings and pitfalls of homeschooling. I’ve known many success stories in homeschooling, and in every case, the family had these five basic values in place:

1. The Value of Biblical Curriculum—Successful homeschooling places a premium on the selection of curriculum. When it comes to the choice of either saving a few dollars or having a truly biblical curriculum, these families place a high value on a biblical education. In addition to this, they select Christian curriculum carefully. Not all “Christian” curriculums are the same. In fact several are just plain dangerous.

Selling Christian curriculum can be big business, and wise families ask the Lord for discernment to see beyond the sales pitch and really inspect the biblical validity of the philosophy and approach that a particular publisher takes. Some providers go to unbiblical extremes to build a loyal customer base—including driving a wedge between the family and other biblical institutions.

2. The Value of the Local the Church—Successful homeschool families always place a high value on the local church, in keeping with the clear, New Testament pattern. A few curriculum and resource providers in the homeschool movement are clearly anti-local church. For some, this sentiment is an over-reaction to the failure of the contemporary church. For others, it flows more from their own past family relationships. For some it’s an inner rebellion and aversion to authentic, biblical structure and authority. Often it is due to fear and over-protectionism. (Becoming reclusive from God’s institution isn’t protective for our children, it’s harmful.) Wherever the withdrawal originates, this anti-local local church philosophy is purely unscriptural and therefore, dangerous to the family.

Sometimes this is referred to as a “home-church” philosophy. While there’s certainly nothing wrong with having a church in a home (as churches began in the New Testament), the modern-day typical “home-church” is somewhat morphed and mutated from the New Testament pattern.

Biblical churches have pastoral leadership, structure, order, giving, Biblical preaching and teaching, and authentic outreach ministry. They have pastors, deacons, new life, and missions efforts. But the “home church” philosophy tends to be, more or less, a few families gathering for loose-knit fellowship. It’s more exclusionary and reclusive. The daily operation, outreach, ministry, and administration of an effective local church is quite different.

Here’s the core point—successful homeschool families understand God’s structure of authority and submit to it. These parents don’t demand submission from their children while simultaneously rebelling against God themselves. They place themselves under God’s authority and model the submissive hearts they teach. In addition, they don’t redefine church according to their own terms—like meeting with a few families to play soccer once a week. If I despise God’s biblical authority in my life—church and pastor—I’m teaching my children to eventually cast off authority themselves.

Finally, these families place para-church organizations in proper perspective. They don’t allow curriculum or resource providers to usurp the local church and their commitment to gathering, growing, serving, giving, and participating with a local, called out assembly. I’ve seen God bless this commitment over and over.

3. The Value of Avoiding “Extreme Family Exclusivity”—Sometimes it is born out of fear—fear of exposing our kids to the “outside world.” Other times it is born out of pride—refusing to recognize that God has ordained other institutions to cooperate with the home in spiritual development and support. Some fringes of the homeschool movement tend toward reclusive family tendencies—withdrawing from church-family and biblical support relationships or structure.

As a “grown-up” child, I will be forever grateful for parents who kept my heart tender towards the lost, toward a godly pastor, and towards other growing Christian homes that weren’t “just like us.” In addition, they helped us to refrain from being judgmental or arrogant towards the lost or those who were growing in grace in our church family.

The successful homeschool stories that I have witnessed have always maintained a strong social and relational connection with healthy influences. They teach their children to avoid “peer dependence” while still meeting the need for peer interaction. They make sure their family is participating in the great work of the gospel with a vibrant church family. These parents have helped their children have a heart for the lost world, not to merely withdraw from it. As one friend of mine said—these families are not just cursing the darkness—they are punching holes in it with the light!

4. The Value of a Structured Format—Every parent is gifted by God to train up their child, but many struggle with the academic and structural side of daily education.  Homeschooling is a huge commitment on the part of parents. It requires the shouldering of a massive schedule and academic responsibility, in addition to the already overwhelming responsibilities of nurturing and parenting our children and managing the household.

I have counseled families who, not long into the effort, find that they are falling behind. On occasion I’ve had moms or dads admit to being a year or more behind in their child’s education. Homeschooling is a serious commitment to a disciplined regimen—a structured schedule and format. We can’t afford to allow our children’s education slip because of a lack of discipline or academic training.

Success stories always include parents who were passionately committed to providing their children with the very best education possible—and that always includes a structured schedule and the daily discipline of school routines.

5. The Value of Family Balance—This final value speaks to the opposite extreme of the previous. While some families struggle to establish the discipline and routines necessary to stay on schedule, others can go overboard on rigidity. It really depends upon your nature. But some parents would tend to err to the side of over-structuring and bringing all of family life into some sort of system and order. This can be overwhelming to a child.

All of our homes need the balance of rules with relationships. Our kids need time with us outside of a routine. They need to laugh, play, connect heart-to-heart, and experience our genuine warmth and compassion as parents. That’s hard to experience while sitting in a school desk. And as a parent it can be difficult to balance the role of school instructor or administrator, with the role of parent.

The success stories always include parents who wisely struck the balance with the help of the Holy Spirit. Remember there is something far more important than your child’s education (as vital as that is!) Their relationship with you and ultimately with God trumps everything else! Through all of the efforts to give them a solid education, be sure that the relationship—heart to heart—is healthy and growing.

Every now and then, break protocol and be a parent. Fall in love with your kids and meet the needs of their heart as well as their minds.

In conclusion, again, I believe wholly in the value of traditional Christian education. Whenever possible, a godly team of teachers in the right Christian school environment is a powerful compliment to the Christian home and local church. However, for many families, Christian school is just not an option for a variety of reasons. When these parents courageously shoulder the responsibility of education rather than taking the easier paths of public options, I respect their choice.

I pray that these values will be strong in your home and will help your family to be one of God’s great success stories!

New to Homeschooling? Need refreshing? 

Why Should You Homeschool?
by Dr Bruce Eagleson

Values-based education
One reason many people home educate is to pass on their values to their children. Even though you cannot, and probably should not, pass on all your values to your children, you certainly want to pass some of them on. Home education seems to allow you to share your values better than any other method of education.

Fellowship with your family
Many home educators report a satisfyingly high level of relationship with their children. The children also develop a closeness which is atypical in our culture. Both the children and the adults seem to enjoy each other’s company. Spending time with your children is one of the best things you can do.

Better education
In numerous studies of standardized test results the home educated child outscores those who are educated in government schools.

Custom Education
Instead of a one-size-fits-all model, home education allows for a custom curriculum for each child. Furthermore you are not constrained by the calendar. If a great opportunity to teach comes up on summer vacation you can just do it.

Socialization
Again in multiple studies homeschoolers out score their government schooled counterparts in ratings of their social skills.

Economics
Homeschooling costs about 1/10 as much as the cost of government schools. Specifically, public school cost an about $6000/child/year contrasting while the average spending on homeschooling is $500 /year/student. If all children were homeschooled, this would save taxpayers over 275 billion a year.

Calling
Many home educating parents do so because they believe that God has placed a call on them to home educate their children. Some parents would describe homeschooling as a way to disciple their children rather than just teach.

Do You Want To Know More?
Do you want to know more about home educating your children? Do you want information on what the laws are in your state? Do you want to know where you can meet other homeschooling families?  Visit BEGINNING HOMESCHOOLING website. Click on the “State Organizations” tab on that page. Next click on the state where you live.

Home Ed 101 Classes Forming

by Sue August

New to homeschooling?  You’re confident that God called you to this, but you feel like you’re in over your head?  Home Education 101 might be for you.  This course for moms will meet one evening a week for 8 weeks.  Classes will begin in late September and will be centrally located based on the response from participants.  Cost is $50.
Veteran homeschool mom, Sue August, will conduct this 8 week course.  Each participant will receive a 170-page workbook.  Topics will include: NJ Law, What About Socialization, Choosing Curriculum, Teaching Multiple Ages, Organizing Your Time, Organizing Your Home, Teaching Tips  . . .  and many more.  Class time will be 2 hours each week to allow for instruction, discussion and Q&A.
If you are interested in this class, email the following information to Sue at mark.august@verizon.net by August 20.

1. Name & address
2. Age of children being homeschooled
3. Which evening is best for you: Mon or Thurs or No preference
4. Whether you would like to host this class in your home

ENOCH Audio Lending Library Review

DO YOURSELF A FAVOR . . .
(One simple thing you can do to jumpstart your homeschool year)

By Sue August

Isn’t it wonderful that things seem to occur in seasons? Having a distinct beginning and end to things is a great help as a motivator.  Last year’s school is finished and most of you view September as the beginning of a new school year even if you don’t follow a traditional schedule. 

With a new beginning looming, you’re probably thinking of things from last year that you’d like to change.  Maybe they seem overwhelming or maybe you don’t know where to begin to make the changes.

ENOCH’s Audio Lending Library has about 200 workshop recordings from past convention and similar conferences across the nation.  We have just made the recordings from our 2009 Convention available as well. You can borrow these recordings for free. 

Take a few moments to browse the topics and titles and then choose just one that you think will help you prepare for your upcoming school year.  Investing those few moments may give you the jumpstart you need!

Use this link to ENOCH’s Audio Lending Library:  http://www.enochnj.org/index.php/resources/lending_library

If you’d rather purchase workshop recordings from either 2009 or 2010, use this link:  http://www.enochnj.org/media/recording2010.pdf

ENOCH EVENTS

ENOCH Essay Contest Winners!

Congratulations to the winners of this years contest:  Abigail Antenucci, Micaiah Teng and Josephine Teng!  

Topic:  What will you be doing when you are 25 years old?

Awards:
  6 to 10 years: $75.00
  Abigail Antenucci
 11 to 13 years: $100.00
  Micaiah Teng of Englewood Cliffs
 14 to 18 years: Special Prize this year, free admission to World View Academy  
  Josephine Teng of Englewood Cliffs

This month  we would like to share with you "Diary of an Archaeologist"  written by Micaiah Teng , age 11.  Our June issue featured Abigail Antenucci's essay and look for Josephine Teng's essay in our September issue. 
      
                                                                                                                                                  
    January 5, 2023

               I’ve been digging for three hours. Amazingly, I unearthed several dinosaur skeletons, the first to be found in ancient Mesopotamia! I confess I was not expecting them at all. The other day, at a different site, I uncovered some very old, mud bricks. After three long years, I still haven’t found the Garden of Eden. Nothing at all. Right now, there’s a sandstorm outside. All work has stopped and I am catching up on my writing. I wonder, if I manage to find the Garden of Eden, would people believe the Bible is true, or would they say my finding is fake?  I have always dreamt of having my own excavation site.  Although I’ve gotten used to finding pot shards, ancient weapons, and tools, I am still not used to the fact, that at twenty-five, I really am an archaeologist!  
    
    January 10, 2023

            Turkey’s Department of Culture is offering me a position with the Department of Antiquities. Since my diggings here have not yield any treasures, I’ll probably take the job to find ancient artifacts for the new museum at Istanbul. My main goal, however, stays the same: help people come to know God through my archaeological work.  Despite my twinge of disappointment leaving my current site, I am absolutely excited about going to Turkey. This land has much to reveal. After all, some scholars have claimed the legendary City of Troy is here. Others say the Hittite Empire and the mighty Assyrians all have their seeds of power in Turkey. Perhaps I will be the one who will finally recover the entire Noah’s Ark on Mount Ararat. This is going to be a very interesting excavation.
    
    July 4, 2023

            I have been in Turkey for more than three months now. Surveying the area took longer than I like.  Today, my workers and I set up fences around the perimeter where we will start excavation. Unfortunately, we had to ask permissions from lots of villagers and government officials… getting all the necessary approval was a time consuming process. The excavation will take even longer because I can only examine an area of two square meters a day. Unless The Department gives me more money, I won’t be able to hire additional workers. Surprisingly, the few men I have are all hard workers; one man does the work of two. They are very religious too.  Throughout the day, my Muslim workers cease their diggings and face Mecca. Prostrating on the ground, they pray five times a day. It moves me to be more faithful in my prayer life. Besides talking about artifacts, I really like to share with them stories about Jesus.  I haven’t forgotten today is Fourth of July. When all the workers went home, I joined several other American archaeologists and missionaries. We celebrated the 4th of July together. Plenty of foods like Adana kebab, simit, keskek and cacick for us to feast on. Still, I really miss the hamburgers, hot dogs, and Macy’s fireworks.
    
    September 21, 2023

            Happy birthday to me! Yesterday I found some petrified animal droppings and hairs. Along with that, my team also discovered several iron nodules. I sent them all to the lab to be analyzed.  I was there all day until two in the morning.  With no family, no friends, and no incredible findings, and no one to celebrate my birthday except some bugs, I felt a little disappointed. The life of an archaeologist is not always easy.
    
    December 25, 2023

            I am overwhelmed with excitement! Thank God! The lab reports finally came back. All the evidence points to material remains of the Ark. Besides our recent discoveries, my team also found petrified wood. I will be excited if we can establish this is in fact Noah’s Ark!! Although there have been numerous Noah’s Ark findings, nothing have been confirmed. I’m hoping we have the real deal. I could not focus on anything else except the lab reports. “Stop playing in the dirt!” my mom used to say. Now I can show her why.

    Then something amazing happened.  Ads-Khan, my assemblage manager, tapped me on the shoulder and pointed to the sky. “Beautiful rainbow,” he said.  There, across the sky God reminded me how much He loves us.  There was no digging, no survey, no shards… it was out in the open for everyone to see. I realized there is still another story after the Ark, one far more important. I hurried to Antalya and attended Christmas service there.  It would be great if our findings confirmed the truth of Noah’s story… but it would be greater if people come to Christ even without proofs.

CAST YOUR VOTE FOR ENOCH 

By Sue August 

Did you know that in the past, ENOCH used to hold its convention in April?  At some point, the date drifted to the month of May, and this year, because of numerous circumstances beyond our control, the Convention will be on June 17-18.

If you’re a creature of habit, these date changes may be disconcerting.  You may feel like you’ve finally figured out a system for being ready to make purchasing decisions at the Convention . . .  and then ENOCH keeps fouling up your system!

ENOCH’s priority is to consider what’s best for our attendees, but there are many factors that figure into choosing a date for the Convention.  Ultimately, we pray that the date that has been set will continue to serve NJ Homeschoolers best.  Below are some of the considerations that cannot be ignored.

First, and least flexible, is the availability of the NJ Expo Center.  From the perspective of the Expo Center, ENOCH is not a big client.  We hold a convention that is only 2 days long.  If they have a party interested in holding a convention for 3 or 4 days, on the same weekend as our convention, we can easily get bumped.   We have looked at other locations to hold our Convention, but so far, our conclusion is that the floor plan at the Expo Center best accommodates all our Convention activities.  If you are aware of any other locations, that might work, please email Sue at conventioncoordinator@enochnj.org

Second, is the fact that neighboring states are also holding their conventions in the Spring.  If ENOCH chooses the same weekend as a neighboring state, this poses a logistical problem for our Exhibitors who cannot be in two places at the same time.  In order to make sure we include the Exhibitors you are counting on visiting at our convention, we’ve got to cooperate with our neighboring states. 

Third, is the availability of our speakers.  They too, must fit lots of speaking engagements into a tightly pack Convention season that is only about 3 months long.  Our gratitude goes out to Kevin Swanson and Andrew Pudewa for their willingness to accommodate ENOCH’s unexpected 2011 date change.  Both speakers had to reschedule other engagements in order to attend our June 17-18 Convention.  When you see them, please thank them for their commitment to NJ Homeschoolers!

Eternally optimistic, I dream about the year when there will be several options open to us, rather than being forced to commit to the only possible date available.  If this ever happens, we want to be prepared!  We want to know what NJ families would prefer.  Please take a moment to go to ENOCH’s website http://enochnj.org/ and answer the survey question about your preference for a Convention date. 

Also, please mark your calendar for June 17-18, 2011 for the 21st Annual Homeschool Convention.  ENOCH has been glad to serve you for the last 20 years by providing a convention to equip and refresh you.  Our prayer is that we will continue in this tradition for many years to come!

ENOCH is on Facebook!

If you haven't already become a fan of  ENOCH of New Jersey on facebook,  you are missing out on  homeschool happenings in NJ as welll as links, announcements, stories, etc. that are posted to help you. Tell every homeschooler you know!  BECOME A FAN TODAY  and join us on facebook.

 

Why You Need to Join HSLDA

We protect your right to homeschool and defend your family. A lawyer is on-call 24/7.

We preserve homeschool freedom by promoting homeschooling and working at the federal level and with state homeschooling groups to get better laws and stop bad laws.
You are part of the cause. Not everyone lives in a state where it's easy to homeschool. It's important to stand together to keep homeschooling free, for this and future generations.

We have coordinators who can answer member questions and help you find resources for the early years, homeschooling through high school and meeting the special needs of struggling learners.

Other Valuable Benefits

Online Curriculum Market where you can save a lot of money buying and selling homeschool-related materials and books.
Weekly Updates and e-lerts on local, state, national, and international homeschooling issues.
Special discounts in our online store.
The HSLDA PerX program, offering members Xtra benefits that are substantial and practical.
A $50-100 discount on PHC Preparatory Academy distance learning courses.
The Home School Court Report, HSLDA’s bi-monthly membership newsletter.

For more information on HSLDA visit their website at:  http://www.hslda.org

OTHER EVENTS AND OPPORTUNITIES

HOMESCHOOL CONTESTS

BERGEN COUNTY 4-H and MASTER GARDENER'S FAIR

Date:  August 14-15,2010
Location:  Van Saun Park, 216 Forest Ave., Paramus, NJ
Description:  The Bergen County 4-H and Master Gardener's Fair will include live performances, exhibitions, educational and hands-on activities for children, contests, games, handmade crafts, food, and more.

For Contest information and registration forms or for more information contact:  Denise Monesteri, Bergen County 4-H Program Assistant,
973-489-4102 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              973-489-4102      end_of_the_skype_highlighting or email:  bergencounty4h@aim.com
 
For more information on NJ 4-H clubs/fairs visit:  http://www.nj4h.rutgers.edu/  local fairs are listed by county.

  

ISI's 2010-2011 SCHOLARSHIP ESSAY COMPETITION

As the Director of Membership and Outreach for the Intercollegiate Studies Institute (ISI), a national education non-profit organization dedicated to "educating for liberty." I am writing to you to let you know about ISI's 2010-2011 SCHOLARSHIP ESSAY COMPETITION. With scholarship prizes ranging from $250 to $1,000, this is a unique reading and writing opportunity for high-school aged students.

All students participating in the conference will receive a FREE copy of Dr. Bradley Birzer's book, "American Cicero: The Life of Charles Carroll." Those who wish to participate in the contest must register by Friday, December 3, 2010 and submit their essays by Friday, February 18, 2011.

This year, participants of the competition are asked to craft an essay in reference to the life of Charles Carroll of Carrollton and consider the applicability of his experience to religious minorities, especially suspect religious minorities, in America today. What accounts for the American experience of maintaining both religious diversity and relative social harmony? How do the experiences of religious minorities in the founding era of the American Republic help us to think about the place of religious minorities in America
today?

Founded in 1953, ISI's mission is to nurture in successive generations a better understanding of the economic, political, and moral principles that sustain a free and humane society. The Institute works annually with hundreds of thousands of students and faculty from all over the country conducting over 300 educational programs. One such program is the Scholarship Competition for High School Students.

If you would like to register your group or individual students for the contest, please email or mail the following information for each registrant in a list or excel document including: Name, Email, Mailing Address, High School/Home School Status, and Graduation Date. All correspondence can be emailed to essaycontest@isi.org OR mailed
to ATTN: High School Scholarship Competition, 3901 Centerville Road, Wilmington, DE 19807.

You can view complete contest details at http://essaycontest.isi.org/.

If you have any further questions about the contest or ISI in general, please contact Michelle Huntley at mhuntley@isi.org or (302) 524-6132 or visit the website:  www.isi.org .  To download a contest flyer, visit: http://www.isi.org/programs/essay/hs1011/content/hs1011.pdf

HOME SCHOOL SCIENCE RESEARCH PAPER CONTEST
For Students Age 11-18 (as of October 1, 2010)

Your Research Paper Should Directly or Indirectly Answer the Question:

How Does Human Anatomy and/or Physiology
Support the Biblical Account of the Creation of Humans?

1st Place Prize: Dell Inspiron 17 inch Laptop Computer
2nd Place Prize: Dell Inspiron 15 inch Laptop Computer
3rd Place Prize: Dell Inspiron 14 inch Laptop Computer
4th - 10th Place Prizes: $25 Amazon Gift Certificates
(student's age will be considered in judging)

The purpose of this contest is to build knowledge and encourage the development of skills: in scientific research and writing, using the APA style for a research paper, and in using analytical and critical thinking in the process of creating a quality research paper. Researching and using the APA style is also part of the learning process involved in preparing this research paper.

To research the APA style for a research paper, talk to your librarian, do research online, buy a book on the subject, etc. The Purdue Online Writing Lab is also a good resource.

Topic of Your Research Paper

The topic of your research paper should include some specific aspect(s) of anatomy and/or physiology of the human body. Be unique, creative, original - think outside the box - dig deep! Hint: lots of people write about the eye. It certainly is an incredible part of the anatomy and physiology of the human body. But, unless you focus on some small aspect of the eye and explain in detail how it supports creation, or have some unique take on the eye, you'll be writing something  similar to many other people. Be unique, creative, original!

For more information visit: http://www.homeschoolscienceacademy.com/contest.htm
Homeschool Science Academy also offer classes, camps, seminars and information for homeschoolers.

Homeschool Cirriculum Discounts

 
Discover Rosetta Stone Homeschool Today and Save up to $100 plus free shipping & 6-month guarantee, please visit the website  for full details.  Offer expires 08/04/10.  Note: Monthly payments are available.

FREE HOMESCHOOL COUPON BOOK!

Looking for some great homeschool values? Check out the all-new Homeschool Coupon Book from Home School Enrichment!
We've partnered with 30 homeschool providers to bring you some great deals on some really wonderful homeschool books, products and services!
Great bargains from names you know and trust in the homeschool community.  Discover savings on curriculum, supplements, and more!

AVAILABLE TUTORING and COLLEGE PREP

DOES MY CHILD REALLY NEED A TUTOR?
by Jeff Weisenberg, President Bright Star Tutoring Services

Note: Whether your child is home schooled, taught in a small co-op, or attends larger classes in school, the same principles apply.

Parents often ask me if there are specific signs or indicators that their child needs tutoring.  My best answer is this: every child is different.  You know your child better than anyone, usually better than a professional teacher in a classroom environment.  It is really acceptable to begin the decision making process by trusting your instincts.  However, it is still a complicated and potentially emotional issue. 
There is no one single sign alerting parents about the need for a tutor, but rather a pattern of several signs.  Different ages and different grade levels bring their own challenges.
At the preschool level, learning is mostly done through play, fun and games.  The parent should be very active in the learning process, teaching numbers and letters.  Reading to your child is essential.  Assuming that a vision, hearing problem, or learning disability is not an issue (in which case a medical professional should be involved) tutoring can help when the child:
•    has difficulty with letters or numbers
•    is not interested in fun or games
•    will not sit through story time
•    seldom talks
In kindergarten and the lower elementary grade levels, children are developing and fine tuning their listening, reading, writing, and numbering skills.  They should be able to understand uncomplicated directions.  However, tutoring is necessary when the child:
•    avoids reading, writing, or numbering exercises
•    has trouble communicating with others
•    is extremely shy or non-participatory in group settings
As children progress through upper elementary grade levels, they should be developing their basic learning skills.  If this is not the case, they may need tutoring to correctly prioritize the subject matter. With increased work requirements, and a greater requirement for comprehension and organization, tutoring is necessary when the child
•    shows frustration in particular subjects
•    cannot focus during instruction time
•    never reads for pleasure
•    is disorganized or forgetful
•    fails to take responsibility for doing his or her homework
•    acts up in class and is disruptive
•    frequently asks to stay home from school, or finds excuses to not participate
At this age, you may notice your child's schoolwork is creating a tension in your relationship.   As your child seeks more independence, they may resist parental attempts to teach, even if you know the subject matter well.  The tutor acts as a third party and can recapture the child’s attention.

As the student progresses to middle and high school grade levels, it is easier to recognize signs that tutoring may be necessary.  An outside tutor allows some separation between you and your child.  This needed space may help your student focus more on the material.  The curriculum is structured and its effectiveness is easier to measure.  Remember, the need for tutoring occurs when there are multiple reoccurring signs which are as follows:
•    grades begin to slowly drop, even if the student is working hard
•    the child thinks negatively of himself or herself in regards to school performance
•    you are increasingly assisting the student with his or her homework
•    the child is becoming rebellious toward school work and loses interest in learning
•    the student is an advanced or gifted learner, and has surpassed the curriculum
•    your student’s choice of college has academic requirements beyond present abilities
•    your child experiences extreme anxiety before tests and exams
•    homework and projects are incomplete or inaccurate
•    your child is having special difficulty in retaining and understanding lessons
•    comments on report cards that say things like "student not reaching his full potential"
•    your student doesn’t feel like he is getting the attention she needs in the classroom
•    your child admits that he is simply ready to "give up" (you also begin to feel that way)
You as the parent may be assisting the student with their studies, but if you do not have a true understanding of the subject matter, then it’s time to find a tutor.
Above all, tutoring must help the student learn how to learn.  Tutoring should speed up the learning process and make up for whatever skills the child is lacking.  When the tutoring is completed, the student will have the skill set to continue learning the subject on their own.  These tools at best will help the student inside and outside the classroom as well.

For more information contact:  Jeff Weisenberg @ jweisen@brightstartutoring.com , Office 609 619 1281 or Fax 609 371 1004,  or visit Bright Star website:  www.brightstartutoring.com

SIGN LANGUAGE Tutoring services

Kirk Von Loh, a Christian Deaf adult is offering Sign Language Tutoring services. Some families may be interested in exposing their children to the fourth most used language in the country. Visit his website at:  http://www.wix.com/vonloh/Sign-Language-Tutoring.

Kirk writes, “My hearing family never learned Sign and I often felt left out and isolated as do most Deaf adults and children. Most people who are Deaf, very much appreciate it when hearing people learn at least some basic signs to be able to communicate with them clearly. Also, only about 1% of Deaf are Christian because of the communication barrier. This is a large group of people who need to learn about God! This would be a wonderful addition to any home schooler's curriculum!”

LATIN TEACHER looking for work

For  Groups and individuals, specializing in homeschoolers

Fees negotiable based on time, distance, and number of students

Based in Haddonfield, NJ, and willing to travel in Southern Jersey to teach in your home if needed

Andrea Casarow Herdelin

856-278-7898 or a.c.herdelin@hotmail.com

UNDERGRAD ZONE-COLLEGE PREP

Thanks to Kim Eaves for sharing this information with us.  This site offers a free College prep checklist and free test prep. Most of the college prep tips are pretty practical. I thought you might want to link to it: http://www.undergradzone.com

ENRICHMENT CLASSES

MUSIC CLASSES right in your home!

-Group beginner string ensemble (violin, viola, cello, and double bass)
-Intermediate and advanced string ensemble
-World music (learn to play the bodhran, djembe, and tin whistle while exploring music from many countries)
-Music theory
-Group piano

-$15 per student per week and bartering is an option!

Choose to host the class in your home, church or other building, find at least 5 other students to join the class, and your tuition is free! We meet on your schedule: twice a week, once a week, or every other week.

In addition to teaching violin privately, I have been teaching string orchestra and piano labs at Kingsway Regional middle and high school for the past 4 years. This year I am leaving the public school system to use my gifts in the Christian home education community. With this in mind, if you are interested please contact me as soon as possible. Whether you’re in NJ, DE, MD or PA, I’m very willing to work with you. I’m also looking to add more private students. Feel free to contact Tim Carroll at 609-313-0395
or at:  timothybc@yahoo.com with any questions. I look forward to hearing from you!

CITY KIDZ WORLD WRITING STUDIO

City Kidz World Writing Studio in Skillman, NJ has opened this summer with great success.
The writing studio is now setting up courses for the fall semester!
The program caters to independent learners: Home Schoolers!
Hours and Days for the Fall 2010 school term:
Monday and Friday : classes:may be scheduled between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Tues., Wed. Thurs. : classes may be scheduled between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m.
Sat.: classes may be scheduled between 1: 30 p.m. and 4 p.m.
Contact information:  writingcourses@citykidzworld.com or 732-514-7373
Call to find out more about the program.

SUMMER COOKING SERIES AT FERNBROOK FARM

Come join us down on the farm this summer for a series of fun and informative cooking demonstrations with our own Chef Kim. Each week we will focus on one or two items from the beautiful and bountiful Fernbrook Garden. 
Classes will run every Thursday from June 17th thru August 5th. The Summer Grilling class and an Outdoor Herb Class will be held in September. Classes will be from 7:00 pm - 8:30pm. The cost of each class is $55.00 and can be paid by cash, check or charge. A discount will be offered for those who wish two book two or more classes together. Once a class is booked, no refunds will be given.
 
Aug 5th   Corn on the Cob
Sept 9th Trio of Peppers and Herbs
Sept 16th Grilling on the Farm
Sept 23rd  Bountiful Broccoli
Sept 30th  3 ways with Arugula

*Classes will hold a maximum of 10 people so book early!
**Registration must be made one week in advance by calling 609-206-0341 or email our chef at Chefkim68@aol.com
For more information on Fernbrook Farm visit their website at:  http://www.fernbrookeducation.org/

HOMESCHOOL SHAKESPEARE CLASS

Yes!  Shakespeare can be fun and is meant to be performed, not just studied behind the desk.  Come join Mrs. Fung’s class and you will be able to fulfill this high school requirement and make friends with a great group of passionate highschoolers at the same time.

A seasoned theatre professional, Mrs. Fung will cover different aspects of acting skills, choral recitation, and play analysis with an emphasis on Shakespeare’s texts.  A Shakespeare play will be chosen and performed for friends and family at the end of the school year.  All class members will also have the chance to participate in Shakesperience:NJ, a Shakespeare festival sponsored by the Shakespeare Theatre of NJ (www.shakespearenj.org) and the Folger Shakespeare Library (www.folger.edu).

This class is for students grades 9-12 and mature students in 7th and 8th grade.  It runs from September 20, 2010 to May 16, 2011 on Mondays from 3:00-5:30 p.m. Tuition is $140 for 28 classes.  Classes will be held at Rutgers Community Christian Church (www.rccc.org).  New students must audition some time in late August for acceptance into the class.  To make an appointment and for additional information, email May Fung at may@cfung.net.   Class is closed once it reaches a maximum of 20 students, so act fast, there are only a few spots left!

May Fung is a graduate of the Hong Kong Academy of Performing Arts (www.hkapa.edu) and is Drama Director at Rutgers Community Christian Church.

WESTERLY LEARNING CENTER

Westerly Learning Center will be offering the following High School Level classes for homeschooled students for the upcoming academic year, 2010 – 2011. Tuition cost for all classes is $540 for the year (32 weeks). Art classes require an additional $45 supply  fee. For more information about additional classes for students in grades K-8, please see our website: www.westerlylearningcenter.org or email us at: learningcenter@westerlyroad.org. 

French II (Tuesdays, 12:30-3:00 pm):   This course is a continuation of French I. There will be more grammar and an expansion of vocabulary, memorization, and written exercises. Students will write a short play. French culture will be explored. Homework is required and must be completed on a regular basis.  Beginning students are welcome. Teacher: Christine Le Gall

AP French preparation classes available upon request.

French Conversation Club (Tuesdays, 3:15-4:15 pm): An after-school club for students who are interested in improving their French language skills. The format of the meeting will involve a discussion of literature which students will be required to read on their own. This class will complement on-line classes because it will provide the necessary interaction between a French native speaker and dedicated students of French. It will be the perfect stepping stone for the AP French oral exam. Pre-requisite: 2 semesters of high school French.

Spanish I (Tuesdays, 12:30-3:00 pm): Students will be introduced to the Spanish language through dialog and an exploration of literature. They will learn grammar and vocabulary and develop elementary skills in writing and translation. Weekly homework assignments are required. Teacher: Margaret Fernández

Platform Speech, the Art of Argument and Introduction to Debate (Thursdays, 9:30 am-12:00 pm): Students will study great speeches of famous orators, build their reasoning skills, and be able to recognize fallacies. Learn the basic structure of argument and debate. Students will travel to NCFCA (National Christian Forensics and Communications Association) competitions to observe debates with a view to actually compete when students are adequately prepared. Teacher: Vanessa Fiori

History of Art with Studio Art (Thursdays, 12:30-3:00 pm): This class will be taught in two parts:  During the first hour, students will learn art history by looking at various periods of art and discussing them. Students will learn about art concepts and the principles of design to gain the ability to describe, analyze, interpret and evaluate art work.  During the second hour of class, students will apply the knowledge they have gained by demonstrating the concepts taught in their studio art projects. Required text: “The Annotated Mona Lisa: A Crash Course in Art History from Prehistoric to Post-Modern.” Teacher: Patricia Melton

Earth Science (Thursdays, 12:30-3:00 pm): Topics in this course include the composition of the earth, minerals and rocks, plate tectonics, earthquakes, volcanoes, weather, climate and the atmosphere. Class demonstrations and some lab work required. Teacher: Kim Torquato

THE COMMUNICATORS FOR CHRIST TOUR is coming to NJ!

The Communicators for Christ Tour is a training event held by the Institute for Cultural Communicators designed to help Christian students from all educational backgrounds become "cultural communicators"--people who can impact their culture through excellent communication of the truth. Their mission over the last 12 years has been to shape culture through authentic communication and equip students with both the competence and character they need to influence culture for Christ. We are truly blessed to have this training event come to our “back yard” here in NJ!

When? Thursday, August 19th through Saturday, August 21st

Ages 6-11
One day Beginning Public Speaking
Friday, August 20th
3:00 - 8:30 pm standard pricing: $ 50 early bird pricing: $ 40 (by 7/22)

Students in the Beginning Public Speaking track are mentored and instructed in a small-group environment with different student instructors who provide feedback to their homework assignments. Each session is packed with activities designed to highlight different public speaking tips and guidelines in a fun and interactive way. By the end of the day, students find that they have given anywhere from 4 to 6 different presentations! From reciting Bible verses to telling jokes to giving speeches about their favorite things, students leave the conference ready to give speeches without a fear of public speaking!

Middle through High Schoolers
Three day Communications Conference
3:00 - 8:30 pm, Thursday and Friday
9:00 am - 3:00 pm, Saturday
standard pricing: $ 175
early bird pricing: $ 150 (by 7/22)

Students who attend the three-day conference will also be mentored and instructed in a variety of workshops designed to meet them at their level. The inexperienced as well as experienced speaker will have opportunities to work on their public speaking skills and critical thinking skills in a fun environment. They will truly be inspired by the training staff as they glean competency and character during their workshops.

(an additional student coaching elective will be available on Friday, August 20 from 9 am – 2:30 pm for current chapter members for additional training in Public Forum, leadership and speech coaching. Early bird pricing $50.00)

Coaches: While students are busy trying out new skills, coaches (teachers and parents) are busy learning how to continue to address these skills post-tour. The resources and expertise available will help you leave the conference confident in your ability to carry on the work that was begun at the tour.
To learn more about the conferences, please visit http://www.instituteforculturalcommunicators.org/10events and scroll down to fall events.
To register, http://www.instituteforculturalcommunicators.org/events10/conference-info#nj

SPORTS AND ACTIVITIES

TCHSA FALCONS-SOCCER

Hello Everyone! I trust you are enjoying a relaxing and wonderful summer.
 
BUT, believe it or not, it's time to start thinking about our fall soccer program. I have our soccer schedule almost complete. I will send it in a separate e-mail to everyone who replies that they are interested. I DO NOT have practice days or times because - 
We need a commitment from 4 coaches, varsity boys, varsity girls, middle school boys and middle school girls. I have scheduled Boys and Girls Varsity and Boys and Girls Middle School games but in order to play we need coaches and preferably, managers AND, of course, players to fill each of those teams.
I NEED to know as close to August 1 as possible, whether or not we can fill these rosters. Please prayerfully consider your participation. The cost will be $150 for Varsity and $100 for Middle School. The first $50 of this payment is the registration fee. This fee is applied generally and covers every sport your child chooses to participate in. You will NOT need to pay this $50 fee for EACH sport, only for the FIRST sport. We need to purchase uniforms, pay for a field to use, purchase soccer balls and other equipment and pay for referee fees with this money. We have 15 Varsity Boys games, 11 Varsity Girls games, and 5 each for Middle School boys and girls. If we have enough players for each team I will probably add a couple varsity girls and 2-3 Middle School games for both boys and girls.   
We have opened a PayPal account for your convenience. If you have a PayPal account and would like to pay in this manner please let me know and we will send you a PayPal invoice for the amount above. It is very simple to open an account and, when opened, it can either come out of your bank account or you can use your credit card. I believe this will make it easier for everyone to pay the fees involved.
 
We will need to begin practice shortly after August 1 in order to be prepared for the season. If you have any questions or concerns please contact Ed Howell at 856-423-6497 or  tchsafalcons@yahoo.com

FREEDOM FARM USA 2010 SUMMER RIDING CAMPS
(Ages 6-18) Only $250 per week!

Dates are: 
July 19-23 
August 2-6
August 16-20
Cost - $250.00 per week/camper
Campers will learn many aspects of horsemanship, including safe riding techniques, natural horsemanship handling, parts of your horse and tack, plus an introduction to the responsibilities of running a large horse farm! 
Non-refundable deposit of $75 reserves your child's place in our summer riding camp! 
Ages 6-18 Beginners to Advanced Riders welcome!
Please contact Regina at 856-252-7075 or email:  spotnj@comcast.net to reserve your child's space in our riding camp. 

Want something new but affordable for your Phys. Ed. classes or extra curricular activities?  Christian, family-owned horse farm in Central NJ, (located at 850 Monmouth Road - on Route 537 - just down the road from Six Flags Great Adventure, right off Route 195) would love to welcome all families, especially homeschoolers.  In past years, we homeschooled our own children, who are now in college, and are aware of the challenges facing homeschooling parents to find quality, budget-friendly choices for activities.                         
Our facility has a large indoor arena (80 X 200), with full jump course, to facilitate all-weather riding with minimal cancellations due to weather.   We have a  variety of horses and ponies for beginner to advanced lessons, plus pony rides are also offered.
In addition to riding lessons, our program offers a full equestrian science education program offered through 4H that includes lessons on the ground (unmounted) as well as full instruction in the saddle (mounted). 
Instructor is also experienced in teaching special needs (Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, ADD, ADHD) riders.
                        
Quality, affordable horseback riding lessons available to all! 
Groups (Brownies, Cub Scouts, Girls Scouts, and Boys Scouts) welcome!
$25.00 per participant
PLEASE NOTE:    THIS WILL BE AN ACTUAL LESSON WHERE PARTICIPANTS ARE TAUGHT CORRECT RIDING SKILLS!

Semi-Private Lesson: $25.00 per student (limit 4 per lesson)
Semi-Private Lesson Package Special-10 lessons $225.00 (Buy 9, get 1 free)
Private Lesson:  $35.00 per hour
Private Lesson Package Special-10 lessons $315.00 (Buy 9, get one free)
4H Membership:  Free-Meetings: 2nd & 4th Fridays of the month at 7:00pm

Days/Hours of operation: Summer Morning Lessons offered as well.
Tues/9-7   Wed/9-7   Thurs/9-7   Fri/9-7   Sat/8-7   Sun/1-7
Please note:  Weekday lessons can be at earlier times.  I offer a flexible lesson schedule to accommodate homeschoolers and classroom students on days off from school.

Please remember to mention this ad was in the ENOCH newsletter when calling.
Thank you and I look forward to introducing a passion for horses to the next generation all for the glory of God!

Please contact Regina to set up an appointment for any of the following:
Lesson days/times and riding camps offered (856) 252-7075. 
Email address:  spotnj@comcast.net
Check out our website at:  www.Freedomfarmusa.com.
Where the Spirit of the Lord is there is freedom!

ROLLER SKATING-CHERRY HILL SKATE CENTER

Dates for roller skating for the upcoming year!
Where: Cherry Hill Skate Center, Deer Road, Cherry Hill NJ

Friday, September 17
Friday, October 15
Friday, November 18
Friday, January 21
Friday,  February 18
Friday, March 18
Friday, April 15

All dates are 3rd Fridays and it is always 1-3PM.
For more information contact Linda at: homeschoolbus@gmail.com

Homeschool Days

Homeschoolers' Days at Great Wolf Lodge Pocono Mountains, PA

On select days in September and October 2010
Looking for a one of a kind spot to bring your homeschooled kids for ultimate family fun?  Great Wolf Lodge places a high degree of importance on education and has programs that meet the Standards of Learning.  Among our many educational programs are:  Junior Lifeguard-Basic Rescue & Water Scanning; Recycling & Conservation; and Fun & Educational Scavenger Hunts.  Open year-round, rain or shine, Great Wolf Lodge offers 84-degrees of waterpark fun in a friendly, safety-conscious environment designed to foster children's learning and imagination.

This special discount is reserved for:
Homeschool Days: Mon-Wed, September 6-8th, 2010 only $149.00 for a family Suite
Offer valid at Great Wolf Lodge-Pocono Mountains, PA location only on a Family Suite room.

For more information or to book your stay call 800-768-9653 or visit greatwolf.com and use promo code: 1009HSPM to take advantage of this exclusive homeschooler offer!

Disney Homeschool Days

Here is a great offer for you from Walt Disney Parks & Resorts

Disney Homeschool Days offers exciting programs that are sure to enhance and add a new level to your homeschool curriculum.
Learning has never been more fun. Disney Homeschool Days invites your students to explore scientific, cultural, creative and natural exhibits of the Walt Disney World® Resort Theme Parks for hands-on, eye-opening experiences.

The next Disney Homeschool Days event is planned for September 8 & 9, 2010 and January 24 & 25, 2011.

To visit Disney Homeschool Days website click HERE

PUBLICATION DATES

ENOCH of NJ e-Newsletter NEXT DEADLINE

Here are the deadlines for the upcoming ENOCH of NJ e-Newsletters.  The deadlines are firm and coordinated so that we can get you a fresh newsletter by the first of each month. Thanks.

September 2010 issue:   Wednesday, August 25th
October 2010 issue:  Saturday, September 25th
November 2010 issue:  Monday, October 25th

Send all submissions to newsletter@enochnj.org.  This deadline serves the purpose of allowing time for editing and formatting the newsletter in order that time-sensitive information can be posted and mailed in a timely manner.

Final editing begins at the deadline.  Submissions prior to the deadline are always welcome and encouraged.
 
Posting and emailing is normally by the 1st of the month (except for the June issue).
 
Thanks for your help in getting the newsletter delivered promptly.

SUBSCRIBE TO ENOCH'S e-NEWSLETTER

Why and How to Subscribe
If you are not already subscribed to this newsletter, you can subscribe now!  If you would like the e-Newsletter delivered directly to your e-mailbox each month, go to Monthly Newsletter link on our website at www.enochnj.org.
 
Encourage your support group members to subscribe to the ENOCH email list!  Include this portion of our newsletter in your monthly hardcopy newsletter.  Get the word out that this newsletter is for them!   We use our subscription list to notify the homeschooling community of changes to our website, of the Convention and our Leadership Conference, alerts, and other important news.
 
All submissions desiring consideration for publication in the e-Newsletter should be sent to newsletter@enochnj.org.  Thanks.
 
ENOCH of NJ
Box 308
Atlantic Highlands NJ 07716
732.291.7800
office@enochnj.org
www.enochnj.org
 
Neither the ENOCH e-Newsletter, nor the Board of Directors for ENOCH New Jersey, endorses nor recommends any of the non-ENOCH programs, events, or opportunities listed. They are selectively provided as a service to those who wish to explore further.