Talk Descriptions for all Seminars
Updated 4-07-10
Friday, April 9, 2010
8:30 - 9:30 am
Auditorium: David Hazell - Homeschooling
in the "Real World"
What is your "real world"? Do you have trouble balancing cooking,
cleaning, family life, social life, church, finances and homeschooling? Where does God fit in all this? We all
have real life responsibilities even though we homeschool. As Christians, our "real world" should be defined
by our Biblical worldview, as well as a balance of "real life" responsibilities and "real world" Christianity.
Societal pressures regarding personal responsibility and educational expectations often derail our hopes for an "ideal"
homeschool experience. Educating our children in God's "real world" must remain the non-negotiable goal.
God has a solution and it may start by re-evaluating our homeschool philosophy.
10:00 - 11:00 am (Friday, April 9)
Auditorium: Jeannie Fulbright - Solving
Your Science Struggles
Let's face it, most people don't like science. Why is that? It's likely because of how
science was taught to them as a child. In this talk, Jeannie will share her understanding of how science should be taught
in the elementary years, based on research, data and experience. You will learn the keys to successfully imparting a solid
science education, with tips, ideas and examples for making science come to life for both parents and students.
Room 300: Dianne Craft - Identifying and Correcting Blocked Learning Gates
This
is for your ‘puzzling child'. A child may be a reluctant learner for several reasons. If you have
a bright, hardworking child who has to work too hard to learn, he is telling you that one or more of his Four Learning Gates
is blocked. This workshop will help you identify which of the learning gates is blocked, and, more importantly, what
you can do about it at home! It doesn't have to be so hard for your child! Find out specifically how the brain
processes information, and where that processing can break down. Then, receive the corrections for each processing area.
This can be done by the parents, at home. You will learn things you have never heard of before in a Homeschool workshop.
A homeschooling mom with a Ph.D. in special education said that she learned more in this workshop about how kids learn and
how to make learning easier, than she had in all her university courses!
Room 312: Joan Brennan
- Practical Ideas, Teaching Strategies, and Teaching Tools for the Special Needs Child
You want very much to
meet the needs of your struggling learner. What can you do to accomplish this? Learn how you can effectively teach
your special needs child/struggling learner using strategies, tools, and other resources for more learning success.
Room
313: Vicky Servi - Challenging Gifted Children to Their Full Potential
Gifted children have a wide range
of abilities and emotional needs. They need to be challenged and mentally stimulated to reach their full potential.
Learn ways to motivate, encourage creativity, increase depth and complexity of curriculum, use Socratic Questioning to challenge,
develop and strengthen cognitive abilities, and teach problem-solving skills. Add logic, reasoning, and critical thinking
activities to your curriculum to engage your child in deeper thinking and more effective learning. Discover activities
to exercise all parts of the brain - brain building fun!
Teach your children to use logic to analyze and evaluate evidence
in order to create a deeper understanding of what is being learned and to foster better communication skills. A child
that has a deeper understanding of the subject and who can distinguish between valid and invalid arguments inevitably becomes
a better communicator. Expand your child's mind to think in new ways and to search for the logic and reasoning behind
the correct answers rather than asking your child simply to know the correct answers.
Room 315:
Steve Clark - Ten Deadly Myths About Math
Most homeschoolers feel uneasy when planning math courses for their
children. We learned our math a long time ago, or we learned it a different way, or maybe we learned it not at all!
How can we know if the methods we are using will achieve the desired results in our students? In this seminar, Steve
exposes ten deadly myths about teaching math, and counters those myths with solid, practical help for parents. You will
also leave with a checklist that you can use to determine the best math course for your students. Don't be surprised
if Steve challenges some of our normal ways of thinking about math. For example, you might just find out that "Practice
Makes Perfect!" doesn't apply to math!
Room 339: High School Helps Talk - Bob
& Vickie Weller - High School Graduation Requirements/College Prerequisites.
This
seminar will offer valuable foundational information about requirements for high school graduation. The presentation will
also cover specific prerequisites required for admission into college, and how to plan a tentative schedule to fulfill those
requirements. In addition, it will show how to provide for those challenging classes that the home educator is uncomfortable
teaching.
NOTE: This session is highly recommended whether your student is planning to attend college
or not.
Many homeschooled students will decide to go to college at the last minute or in later years and will need college
pre-requisites. Employers, missions groups, and the military also like to see a well-rounded high school transcript.
Room
341: Steve Demme - Slaying Lions and Honoring Parents (Youth)
In examining the lives of Isaac and
David, Steve gleans helpful insights into hte battles facing young people today. This workshop will clarify the issues, and
encourage our youth to stand strong in their faith. All Scripture is inspired and profitable for Christians of all agaes,
and in all ages. (Youth)
Room 370: Jean Kovatovich - Let's Get Organized! But
HOW?
Come join the fun as Jean Kovatovich presents simple and practical ways to inject a little organization
into your life, your home and your school. Laugh with us, learn with us and be encouraged! Jean offers ideas that
can be painlessly implemented to bring order where there once was chaos. This workshop is for everyone! New home
schooler or veteran. Those with babies, those with high schoolers and everyone in between.
Room
372: Lulli Akin - After 26 Years How to Keep Homeschooling Simple
Description to follow
Exhibitor
workshops:
Room 312: Erin Schreiber (Maryville University) - Seamless Strides: Making the Transition
to College An Extension of the Homeschooling Experience
Room 314: Jennifer Beck (My Father's World) - You Can Homeschool
High School!
Room 360, Cathy Ptak (Institute for Excellence in Writing) - Experience Excellence in Writing
11:00 - 12:30 pm (Lunch Break)
11:15-12:15 - All College reps available to talk during this lunch period in room 339
12:30 - 1:30 pm (Friday, April 9)
Auditorium:
Steve Demme - Using Hands-on Manipulatives to Teach Math Concepts
Steve will demonstrate several levels of
math from place value to algebra. Illustrating math leads to understanding math, liking math and being successful in math.
Bring your questions and watch math make sense before your eyes.
Room 300: Dr. Matthew E.
Worth, DC: Neurology of Learning Disabilities - Why Does My Child Struggle With Learning?
Understanding
the struggles that their child has goes a long way in helping parents homeschool their children. Answers
to questions such as "Why can't she catch on to reading?", or "Why does he act this way?", or "Why
can't he learn his math facts?" come to light as Dr. Worth presents a review of the mechanisms ("what areas of the
brain are affected" and "what areas are not working appropriately") of various learning disabilities including
reading & comprehension difficulties, as well as autism, Asperger's Syndrome, and OCD. He will demonstrate how the
brain is working in these learning and behavioral difficulties by showing functional MRI's and SPECT imaging of the brains
of people diagnosed with these disorders. Parents can then see how their children's brains might be responding in comparison
to brain responses in children without learning or behavioral struggles. He will then explain, in layman's terms, what
is going on neurologically so that parents can better understand their child's struggles and will better be able to determine
the best course of action for their child. Dr. Worth will also offer some great ‘take home' ideas to use with
your kids and will talk about some of the current treatments available, addressing which ones are the most effective.
Room 312: Patty Yager - The Adopted Child - Barriers to Learning
It is not
uncommon for an adopted child to come home with educational challenges. Patty Yager will discuss the most common stumbling
blocks to learning in the adopted child, how to tell root of the problem, and what can be done. This session will be half
lecture and half question and answer period.
Room 313: Lauri Robins - Using Thinking Skills
Games in Gifted Education
Explore the benefits of hands-on learning! We now know that by exercising our brains
throughout our lives, we can build new connections that result in stronger critical thinking skills when we are young and
will protect our minds from decline as we age. In this presentation, you will learn what research is telling us about gifted
kids and families. You will hear about the common learning styles that often accompany giftedness. You will discover how tactile
puzzles, games, and learning tools can provide the pace, complexity, and independence that your bright kids crave. You will
find out why diversity matters. You will see how you can strengthen your homeschooling curriculums by including hands-on puzzles
and games that will provide daily "brain fitness" for you and your family. You will be inspired to develop a life-long
love of puzzles and games in your children and yourselves!
Room 315: John Thrower - Ten Things
to Consider when Going to the Library
John will discuss 10 things to consider when you go to the library that
will help you make wise choices in selecting books for your family. He will suggest practical ways to help your family
make the most of their library experience.
Room 339: High School Helps Talk
- Dual Enrollment College Panel
This session will provide home educators with an opportunity to learn
about dual enrollment. Dual enrollment is an opportunity for students to complete college level academics and earn college
credit at a reduced price while still in high school. Come learn the advantages and disadvantages, the required minimum age
to enroll, the tuition cost, how many classes a student can take per semester, and much more.
Room
341: David Hazell - Standing Out in the Teenage Crowd: Living a Life Full of God's Purpose (Youth)
History
is full of examples of young adults who did amazing things for their families, their countries, and for God. Why were
these individuals so equipped to make a difference at such a young age? The key is to first understand what God expects
from you. Learn why the term "teenager: should be replaced with "young adult." Strive to become
a young adult who is better equipped to change the world for Christ! Parents: help your young adult get the most out
of this workshop by attending together. (Youth)
Room 370: Susan Reilly - The Many Benefits
of a Classical Education
What methods of learning do we all hold in common? How can we use that knowledge
to educate our children? Come learn about how our brains grow and developed, and how we can structure our teaching to
match the brain's development. It's no big secret. Educators did it for centuries, but we have strayed and forgotten
much in the last several generations. Once you learn the classical methods taught in this workshop, you will be able
to apply the tools of learning to teach any subject to mastery level.
Room 372: Deana
Haines - What Your Children Will Remember--Lessons from Home Educated Adults
What do home educated adults want
to share? It is well-known that home educated students do well on ACT scores, perform well in college, and make good
employees. Deana Haines will share the thoughts and opinions she has received from home educated adults about their homeschool
experience. Such questions as "What is your fondest memory of your homeschool experience?" or "Do you plan
to homeschool your own children?" will be addressed. Additionally, she will share comments and stories given to
her by these home educated adults.
Room 120: Barry Stebbing - Beginning Painting in the
Home
Mr. Stebbing has successfully instructed over 60,000 homeschoolers using this time tested, practical,
and simple method of learning the academics of color theory along with the basic fundamentals of painting. Drawing Special
for St. Louis Conference. Mr. Stebbing recommends a sketchbook for the drawing workshops as students will have many
delightful exercises to fill the first few pages. Special! Sketchbook, 4 Drawing Pencils, Kneaded Eraser and Black
Drawing Pen: A $13.00 value. Only $7.95 for the conference! (Art)
Exhibitor workshops:
Room
312: Presenter name tba (Miriam Learning Center) - Helpful Resources for the Special Needs Child
Room 314: Roger Farr
(International ALERT Academy) - Leadership 101 for Dads
Room 360: John Notgrass (Notgrass Company) - Teaching the Heart
2:00 - 3:00 pm (Friday, April 9)
Auditorium:
Kerry Messer, Defending Your Family: Homeschooling Under Attack
We all know some people and politicians, institutions
and ignorance want to restrict and regulate, if not eliminate and eradicate home schools. Most of us believe we understand
the reasons behind their various misguided motives. Many may even remain diligent to promote our home school heritage
advocating vigilance for the next generation. But fewer and fewer are including practical ideas or taking steps to be
intentional about defending their home school family. Missouri's home school freedoms make it safe and easy to
be lured into a false sense of security, while our enemies plot to divide and destroy our way of life. The political
battle lines must not be abandoned. Fresh troops must be trained and commissioned for duty, supply lines must be maintained
and the basic infrastructure of our home school culture should never be weakened. Our "finest hour" is not
determined by the hour of attack, nor defined by our survival, but destined by our resolve.
Room
300: Dianne Craft - Smart Kids Who Hate to Write
If you have a child who groans and fusses about writing,
or still writes reversals, or spells a word orally correctly but leaves out letters when he writes, this workshop is for you!
This child's math papers are so hard to read because they are lined up so poorly! These children are often thought of
as sloppy, lazy, or unmotivated, when they really have a writing glitch. They are using way too much energy for the writing
process, thus are reluctant to put pencil to paper for anything. This often is a true Dysgraphia. The writing
learning gate is the most common gate that is blocked with gifted kids. They know so much, but just can't get their
thoughts down because of this blocked learning gate. In this workshop you will be shown a daily exercise you can do
with your child to get the writing into his ‘automatic' brain hemisphere, and take the stress out of his writing system.
This exercise is used throughout the United States by athletes!
Room 311: Marlene Barron,
OT - The Misunderstood Child - Adopted Kids and Sensory Processing
Is your adopted child overly picky? Does
his/her inflexibility interfere with activities in and out of the home school environment? Does your child need to know the
schedule from dawn to dusk? Is your child emotionally volitle? Does he/she not enjoy a good hug or simple hygiene tasks? Your
child may have a difficulty known as sensory defensiveness. Come and hear about this challenge and treatment techniques that
can support your child to be an effective learner.
Room 313: Rene Hayes - You Can Successfully
Homeschool Your Special Needs Child - Part 1
Are you thinking about homeschooling or already doing it and feeling
lost? Wondering where to start and gain your footing? In a practical way we will cover how to determine goals and break them
down into real steps you can manage, current methodologies that will work with any child, great resources - how and where
to find them, and how to home school a special needs child without blowing your budget or draining your retirement account.
Room 315: Steve Clark - Taking the Struggle out of Solving Word Problems
What
happens when you begin to read the following sentence? "A plane leaves New York at 10 AM moving at 550 mph. A second
plane leaves Los Angeles..." You know what's coming next, right? That knot in your stomach begins to
form as you realize you're going to be asked to solve another one of those math "story problems." In
this entertaining and instructional workshop with Steve Clark, you will learn how to use the five questions that must be asked
in order to solve story problems, whether in simple arithmetic or in Algebra. The correct answers to these questions are guaranteed
to lead students to the equation they must solve in order to find the answer to the problem. You will be amazed when
you find out that "Word Problems Just Don't Have to be That Hard!"
Room 339:
High School Helps Talk - Jan Petzoldt - ACT, PSAT, and SAT Testing
This seminar will be of interest to college
bound high school students and parent educators. The presentation will cover what these tests are, why a student should or
should not take these tests, when to take them, the cost of taking them and how to prepare for them. Scoring well on these
tests can help families save money and reduce the cost of a college education.
Room 341:
Jeannie Fulbright - Owning It (Youth)
Jeannie encourages kids to truly develop a walk with God, owning their
own faith rather than believing their parents' faith can carry them through. She discusses how to develop a closer walk with
God, how to develop a prayer life and truly trust God has their lives in their hands. It's a powerful talk that is designed
to help the students see that theirs is a battle for their soul and they must ultimately make the decision about whose side
they are on. They must own their faith. (Youth)
Room 370: Steve Demme - Why We Do What
We Do and How To Keep at It
The first half of this workshop helps clarify our vision for home educating our
children, and the second part will give us tools and strategies to keep us on track with our original goal and mission. This
is not in the traditional structure of a lecture. Much of our time will be spent in voluntary guided discussion so we can
glean from the collective wisdom of all who attend and wish to contribute their insights
Room 372:
Maria Rolland - Help! My Child Is Leaving for College!
Maria Rolland will give parents practical tips and encouragement
for sending your students to college from a homeschooler's perspective. Hear from a former homeschooler talk about her experiences
in college, as well as ways you can help your students as they leave and begin college.
Room 120:
Barry Stebbing - God and the History of Art
Mr. Stebbing, author of God and the History of Art, and the writer
of many art history articles for homeschooling magazines, will introduce a variety of the great works of the masters in this
workshop. There will be a delightful slide presentation, focusing on Christian artists and godly periods of art, along with
discussing such topics as: the purpose for art in the Church, the 2ndCommandment, nudity in art, various styles, and visiting
a museum. Workshop concludes with an inspiring ensemble of music and works by the great masters. Drawing Special for
St. Louis Conference. Mr. Stebbing recommends a sketchbook for the drawing workshops as students will have many delightful
exercises to fill the first few pages. Special! Sketchbook, 4 Drawing Pencils, Kneaded Eraser and Black Drawing
Pen: A $13.00 value. Only $7.95 for the conference! (ART)
Exhibitor workshops:
Room 312: Norma
J. Holt (Leftovers, etc.) - Leftovers Lights Up Learning
Room 314: Tomi Padgett (RightStart Mathematics) - Abacus-Based
Mathematics
Room 360: Dianne Heinrichs (Total Language Plus) - Breathing Life into Language Arts
3:30 - 4:30 pm (Friday, April 9)
Auditorium:
David Hazell - Help--My Homeschool Is Chaos!
Is your homeschool day made up of demanding toddlers and emotional
teens, six subjects to prepare for each child, co-op demands, music, sports, falling behind, tears, chores, skipping chapters...and
ultimately the question, "Where is God in all this?" Learn to work together as a family to achieve attainable goals
with a fresh outlook and easy-to-implement organizational ideas. Bring sanity and success back to your home, and enjoy the
process. Your homeschool chaos can come to an end!
Room 300: Dianne Craft - Teaching the
Right Brained Child, Part 1
Half of the population is right brain dominant, and half is left brain dominant.
You may have a right brain learner in your midst. These wonderful children learn in a different manner than their left
brain siblings. If you have a child who does not "like'" school work no matter what you do, you will learn much
in this workshop. Parents say, "I can't believe it, but my child asks to do spelling now." This
happens when the child stores spelling words in his/her photographic memory. You will learn how to identify the right brain
child, and learn many simple teaching techniques, such as Right Brain Spelling, (making the words "stick instead of slip")
and Right Brain Reading. This is the method Dianne used in her Resource room to help all of her students make a two-year
gain in reading and spelling in one year! You can do this, too. Watch your children become good spellers and readers
by using a totally different strategy!
Room 312: Jackie Worth - Educational
Testing: The Tests , What They Test, and Does My Child Need Testing?
Explore the realm of educational testing
and learn whether or not it will benefit you to have your child tested. Jackie will go through some of the major tests
that the school districts and private testers utilize when doing an educational assessment. What do these tests actually
tell you about your child's learning struggles? When are they necessary? Which ones should you ask for if you
have your child tested? Come and hear Jackie unravel some of the mysteries behind these tests.
Room
313: Rene Hayes - You Can Successfully Homeschool Your Special Needs Child - Part 2
In very practical
ways we will cover how to make sensory needs work for you, unconventional ways to school and retain your child's attention,
making school relevant, pacing tasks to fit your child's needs, dealing with plateaus and regression, stretching your therapy
dollars, and the critical importance of life skills and friends-how both can help you and your child accomplish your goals.
Room 315: Trisch Breed - Homeschool Record Keeping in Missouri
Trisch will
be talking about how to tailor your record keeping to fulfill Missouri Law and your family's needs. We will cover:
Your responsibilities under Missouri law, paper vs. electronic recordkeeping (with a caution about web-based recordkeeping),
journaling, portfolios, awarding high school credits, basic transcripts, and preparing for college.
Room
339: High School Helps Talk - Deana Haines - 10 Reasons to Home School Through High School
The
time you spend with your children is vital during the adolescent years. This is a time when a child is evaluating all that
he/she has learned and is becoming an adult citizen in the nation and the kingdom of God. It is also a time when a student
should become more and more independent in his/ her work and study habits. But, more importantly for the parent, it can be
a time of incredible bonding and building an adult relationship with your child. Academically, spiritually, and socially,
home education is an excellent choice for the middle and high school student. Deana will share first-hand the blessings, challenges,
and importance of home education in high school.
Room 341: Jean Kovatovich - Narration,
Copywork, and Dictation: OH MY!
Have you ever wondered how to easily incorporate narration, copywork and dictation
into your home school? It's fun and rewarding to both student and teacher alike! Come join us as Jean Kovatovich
takes some of the mystery out of these old-fashioned, but timeless and useful practices. This workshop has something
for everyone with children ages six and up.
Room 370: Carl Werner - Is the Theory of Evolution
a Fairy Tale? (Youth)
In this overview presentation of the theory of evolution, Dr. Werner will tell his personal
story why he abandoned the theory of evolution and the big bang. He will discuss the core issues of evolution and the
big bang and why they have fallen short of his litmus test for scientific truth. (Youth)
Room
372: Nancy Schaaf - The Value of Arts Education for This Generation
With a foundation of information
from the latest studies on learning, the arts and the brain, this seminar will bring encouragement to homeschooling parents
to pursue education in the arts. Our children's generation can benefit greatly from training in the arts to produce not only
performing and fine artists, but creative thinkers who can be prepared to weather the new job market that is developing in
our society; self disciplined people who can have a foundation of a strong character; and lifelong appreciators of the arts.
Exhibitor
workshops:
Room 312: Vicki Servi (Bright Minds/Brain Building) - Brain Building Fun for All Ages and Abilities
Room
314: Michelle Holland (Rainbow Resource/Truth in Science)- The Role of Parents in Education
Room 360: Jen Duncan (In
the Hands of a Child), Lapbooking for Special Needs Children with ADD/ADHD, Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, and Sensory Integration
Needs.
Talk Descriptions for
all Seminars
Saturday, April 10,
2010
8:30 - 9:30 am
Auditorium:
Steve Demme - Conformed or Transformed
Steve believes the word of God is inspired, authoritative, and "profitable
for teaching". He also is convinced we are to be not conformed but transformed by the renewing of our mind. With these
premises, he examines what the Bible has to say about education and how scripture impacts every subject area in our curriculum.
10:00 - 11:00 am (Saturday April 10)
Auditorium:
Jeannie Fulbright - Homeschooling: Methods that Win and Methods that Wipe Out
This workshop will uncover the
reasons why we get discouraged and burnt-out as we travel along the road of homeschooling. Jeannie will explain how many homeschool
moms employ philosophies, techniques and methodologies that consume a great deal of time and energy with little results. We
tie up heavy burdens, place them on our backs and struggle through each day using overly difficult principles and practices
that drag us down. By mid-year, we are so exhausted and depleted that we wonder how we'll ever get through. Consequently,
the joy of following God's will in homeschooling is missing. This should not be! Jeannie will discuss some of
the wasteful methods and describe winning methods you can use to replace those that wipe you out. She'll explain the latest
research in educational methodology as well as time-tested practices in education that the founders of our country used to
achieve an excellent education. She'll give practical tips and ideas that will breathe life into your school day. Included
will be ideas for organizing your school day, scheduling, and fitting difficult to teach subjects into the week.
Room
300: Dianne Craft - Teaching the Right Brained child - part 2
Once you have identified your right brain
learners, become an expert at training those children to use their superior "photographic memory" in many areas
of learning. Teach your children the lifelong skill of studying for tests by taking a picture of the contents of a chapter.
These memory techniques are commonly used by Cambridge University students to reduce studying time.
For
some children, math is a monster! They hate it and always feel dumb when doing it. Math is almost always taught in a
left brain manner. You can teach it in a right brain manner. These children have difficulty learning math
facts. They tend to do poorly on tests, because they ‘forget' how to do the math processes (division, fractions,
algebra, etc.) In this workshop you will learn how to help your child 1) finally store the math facts in their long
term memory; 2) finally store math processes in their long term memory. Your child will finally be able to pass the
math tests to be able to go on to the higher math courses using right brain math. No curriculum to purchase... just
fast, effective, right brain strategies to use at home to reduce math frustration and tears! So many moms report that
their child now likes math!
Room 312: Joan Brennan - Gifted Education on a Shoestring
Do
you have a gifted or talented child? Is your child "Twice Exceptional?" Learn how you can adapt or differentiate
the curriculum you already have to meet your child's unique learning needs. Practical ideas will be offered for your
immediate use.
Room 313: Carrie Salyer, OT - Sensory Make and Take
In this
session, you will learn how to make a variety of sensory tools that can be used throughout the day to enhance your child's
attention and learning. You will actually make items to take home and learn how and when to use them effectively.
Room
315: John Thrower, Men and Marbles (DADS)
The time we have with our children is quickly passing each
of us by. This message addresses the need to use our time wisely and to invest ourselves into the lives of our family.
Makes use of a powerful object lesson to stress the important passage of time. (DADS)
Room
339: High School Helps Talk - Bob & Vickie Weller - Transcripts and High School Resumes
This
seminar will present parent educators and high school students with detailed information about high school record keeping,
high school transcripts and course work, high school resumes for college and/or employment, and an opportunity to ask questions.
The details provided will include how to develop a transcript, what to include, how to calculate GPA, and how many hours of
school is considered a unit or credit.
Room 341: Carl Werner, Have Natural History Museums
Misled the Public?
Have you ever thought that something was not quite right when you visited your local Natural
History Science Museum? You might not have been able to put your finger on it, but something seemed amiss. Well here
is your opportunity to get the full story. In this presentation, Dr. Carl Werner, author of Evolution: The Grand Experiment
book series will show museum displays and then show you how they are scientifically misleading. Actual footage of museum
displays will be shown followed by a brief correction of the facts. Time permitting, Dr. Werner will do the same with science
magazines and scientists making presentations about evolution.
Room 370: Christy Westover
- Outnumbered? Solutions to Homeschooling Multiple Children Successfully
Christy Westover is teacher and mom
to four daughters, wife to Paul, and grateful to be part of such an incredible homeschooling community. Christy knows first-hand
the challenges that come with homeschooling multiple children. Do you ever feel outnumbered? How does one mom do it ALL? How
do you balance being mom, wife, teacher and friend? What does a "successful school day" look like with so many ages,
learning levels, personalities and challenges all in one room? Drawing on personal experiences and a lot of knee-mail, all
the way from toddlers to teens, she will share practical ways to manage your home and school when you have more than one child.
She will share encouragement, resources, time management ideas, and organization tips to help you have a successful, fruitful,
homeschool journey. Join Christy for a new perspective on homeschooling the large family God has blessed you with.
Room
372: Steve Clark - Algebra Alcatraz! A Workshop for Teens and Their Wardens (Ooops! I Mean Parents) (Youth)
Does
the thought of starting high school math make you think that you've just been sentenced to four years of Math Prison? Mom
and Dad say that you should keep taking Math courses all through high school, but it just doesn't seem to make sense. You're
spending hours every day on subjects like Algebra and Geometry, and many times Mom and Dad don't even understand it themselves!
If you're not going to be an engineer, or work in some highly technical field, then how much math do you really need, anyway?
Why not just break out of Algebra prison and study some practical subjects? If you've ever felt this way, or if Mom and Dad
have felt this way, you both owe it to yourselves to invest just 55 minutes to find out whether this Algebra stuff is right
for you. (Youth)
oom 120: Barry Stebbing - Nature Studies and Journaling
This
workshop's purpose is to instruct students and parents in a simple and inspiring approach to drawing from nature and keeping
a journal. Mr. Stebbing has completed over 40 art journals during his lifetime and believes it to be a great educational tool
for homeschoolers as it nurtures penmanship, encourages drawing from life, nurtures independent studies, and promotes creativity.
Much of what is discussed is accompanied by an inspiring slide presentation. There will also be a 10 minute drawing lesson
building student's confidence in their drawing abilities. Drawing Special for St. Louis Conference. Mr. Stebbing
recommends a sketchbook for the drawing workshops as students will have many delightful exercises to fill the first few pages.
Special! Sketchbook, 4 Drawing Pencils, Kneaded Eraser and Black Drawing Pen: A $13.00 value. Only $7.95 for the
conference! (Art)
Exhibitor workshops:
Room 312: Jill Zeller (Lindenwood University) - College Planning
101
Room 314: Kelly Kohring (My Father's World) - Combining Classical Education, Charlotte Mason, and Unit Studies with
a Christian Perspective
Room 360: Michelle Holland (Rainbow Resource/Truth in Science) - A Christian Approach to Scientific
Technologies
11:00 - 12:30 pm (Lunch Break)
12:30 - 1:30 pm
(Saturday, April 10)
Auditorium: David Hazell - Exposed--Isolated--or Insulated:
How Should We Educate our Children?
Exposed, Isolated, or Insulated: How Should We Educate Our Children?
In our world it is very difficult to protect our children from the influences of those who seek to pollute our children's
minds. Some respond by giving up and just leaving it to prayer; after all, it is a tough battle, and we got through it okay
when we were young. Others withdraw, seeking to protect their children from the world. Is there a better way? Learn how we
can insulate our children from evil, and at the same time equip them to battle against it, spreading God's Kingdom into a
dark world.
Room 300: Steve Demme: Finding Hope and Redemption in the Valleys of Life
This workshop is Steve's testimony of the last twenty years as the father of a child with special needs. He shares
what his family has learned as a result of Johnny's disability, and the special, rewarding, and joyful role he has played
in their lives. Even in the difficult experiences of life, God proved faithful. His grace sustained them and brought good
out of their struggles and disappointments.
Room 312: Carrie Salyer, OT - Music and Learning
- How Music Enhances Your Child's Learning Environment
This seminar will provide you with information about
why and how to use music and rhythm to enhance your child's attention and learning. Discussion will range from basic
rhythmical strategies to therapeutic auditory programs.
Room 313: Dr. Matthew Worth, DC -
Addressing ADD/ADHD
Dr. Worth has designed an interactive lecture that will address the ever growing topic
of Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorders. He will present pictures of functional MRI's and SPECT scans of children
with ADD/ADHD so parents can actually see how their child's brain responds as compared to children without attention and/or
hyperactivity problems. This presentation will include the breadth, depth and application of ADD/ADHD, the most current research
(published as well as "in the works"), effectiveness of available treatment modalities, and insight into teaching
techniques for these learners. Finally, Dr. Worth will send you home with ideas and techniques to help your child improve
his focusing abilities both with school work and in life activities in general.
Room 315:
Deana Haines - Making History Come Alive for Your Children
The study of history is a critical part of any child's
education. But, sometimes, history books can be dry, or overwhelming for a child to understand. There are many ways
to make the study of history meaningful, interesting, and pertinent to your child. Deana will share from her experience ways
to make history meaningful and interesting for any style learner. The use of games, lapbooks, drama, music, and historical
fiction are just a few of the many ways history can become an exciting part of your day's activities.
Room
339: High School Helps Talk - Jan Petzoldt - CLEP, AP, and DANTES Testing
This session will be
of interest to college bound high school students and parent educators. The presentation will cover what these tests are,
why a student should or should not take these tests, when to take them, the cost of taking them and how to prepare for them.
Scoring well on these tests can help families save money and reduce the cost of a college education.
Room
341: John Greever - Personal Reflections on Homeschool Teaching and Leadership as a Homeschool Father (DADS)
Dr.
Greever's talk will include a personal and experiential reflection on the biblical aspects of homeschool dads leading their
families and teaching their children in these perilous and difficult times. This talk will be biblical and practical
in nature.
Room 370: Leslie Korhammer - The Building Blocks of Writing
In
order to be successful in college and a productive member of society, every person needs to have the ability to effectively
communicate through the written word. In this seminar, I will give you, the parent, the tools to teach your middle school
or high school student to write. We will discuss high interest activities to encourage your child to enjoy writing,
such as journaling and creative writing. Also, I will provide you the necessary understanding of the elements of the
five-paragraph essay including a thesis statement, which is the base from which all academic writing builds. From that
scaffolding, we will erect an understanding of a research paper as well. Finally, I will give you the nails to hold
it all together as we discuss the importance of using rubrics and scoring guides in order to objectively grade your students
writing. By the time we are finished with our session, you will have all the building equipment you need to teach your
child to write.
Room 372: Sarah Greek from Teen Pact - Running with the Horses: Fighting for
Excellence in a Careless Generation (Youth)
A customized education, an attentive family, a world of possibilities...what
do you do with the legacy you've inherited? Where do you go from here? Join Sarah, a homeschool graduate, for a frank discussion
on excellence, servant leadership, and the battles we fight as young people. Let's consider our calling. What are the needs?
Where is our niche? Do you understand the stakes? Will you aim high? Will you accept the challenge of this generation? You
will perform like you train. Are you ready for life?
Room 120: Barry Stebbing - Learning to Draw for
Teenagers and Adults
Great for all ages! (You can even bring along the serious 5 year old.) All that's
needed is a pencil and paper to enjoy this hour long workshop on learning to draw. Mr. Stebbing has been teaching 3 day art
classes throughout North America to homeschoolers for many years, now estimating that he has personally instructed over 60,000
students. Using an overhead projector, students will follow along step-by-step, learning the basic building blocks, or fundamentals.
This workshop is an educational and inspiring beginning course in drawing for both younger and older students that will offer
exercises in perspective, portraits, anatomy, "fundamentals," and cartooning. Drawing Special for St.
Louis Conference. Mr. Stebbing recommends a sketchbook for the drawing workshops as students will have many delightful
exercises to fill the first few pages. Special! Sketchbook, 4 Drawing Pencils, Kneaded Eraser and Black Drawing
Pen: A $13.00 value. Only $7.95 for the conference! (Art)
Exhibitor workshops:
Room 312: Keith Quigley
(Fontbonne University) - Weaving through the College Admissions/Scholarship Maze
Room 314: Jessica Rondina (Apologia
Educational Ministries) - Teaching the Jr. and Sr. High Sciences at Home
Room 360: Shanna Stewart (Best Teacher Supply)
- Incorporate Some FUN into Your Curriculum
2:00
- 3:00 pm (Saturday, April 10)
Auditorium: Auditorium:
Todd Akin - A Testimony and Challenge to be People of Courage (DADS)
All of God's children face a personal
challenge in discovering and living the unique experience which is our destiny. But living this calling requires great personal
courage. We will investigate God's promises, our reason for hope, and the courage we can take as we run and are cheered on
by the saints who line the path. (DADS)
Room 300: Dianne Craft - Biology of Behavior
and Learning - Part 1
Johnny is a constant motion machine. Tom cries in frustration over minor matters.
Susie forgets what she has just learned. According to Dr. Sydney Walker, children tend to "act how they feel".
This fascinating workshop provides you with clues to your child's brain/body chemistry. Dr. Crook has found that over 85%
of children who suffer with Sensory Processing Disorders or attention or mood disorders when older have experienced multiple
ear infections as a young child. Untreated, these children often go on to have many hidden food allergies and asthma.
It is easy to correct these imbalances at home and dramatically affect your child's learning day. The testimonies that
we receive from parents across the United States who are using these simple remedies with their children are amazing!
Room
312: Jennifer Soerries - Fearfully and Wonderfully Made - Encouragement for Parents with Struggling Learners
and Special Needs Children
Psalm 139 declares that each of our children are "fearfully and wonderfully
made." God has given each child special gifts and callings, and has fashioned them in unique ways. How do we co-labor
with the Lord to bring forth the unique expression of His glory through our child? Jennifer will share timeless and timely
principles from God's Word and His heart to encourage and equip you to "unwrap" and cultivate the gifts within your
children. What is God's perspective for the struggling learner and the special needs child? How do we adjust our dreams and
our lives when God's plans are different than our own? If your child can't remember Math facts or struggles to read, God still
has powerful promises, purposes and plans for their life! He calls you to be their biggest earthly advocate. Can children
who "don't fit into the box" still succeed and fulfill their destiny? The answer is a resounding, "YES"!
Discover practical ways to build up your precious child, improve their God confidence, and release their gifts, through the
power of encouragement.
What about us parents? God is intimately acquainted with our weariness, weakness, doubts and
fears. What about our fears for the future? Does God really have a plan?
How do we find our strength in Him on those
days when there is food coloring on the new couch, or gravel in the blender?! He invites us to greater intimacy with and dependence
on Him. This talk will be two-fold. There will be spiritual and practical encouragement for parents to fill them with new
hope and strength. There will also be principles and tips to discovering and cultivating the special gifts within our children.
Room
313: Katie Breneman - Managing Problem Behaviors in Learning
Why are kids engaging in problem behavior?
From non-compliant behaviors (such as not following instructions) to aggressive behaviors (such as hitting, kicking or biting),
this seminar sets out to help understand the basic principles of behavior based on the Applied Behavior Analysis Methodology,
including understanding why problem behavior is occurring, how to respond to the behavior, and how to prevent future behaviors
from occurring by using positive behavior supports. This seminar seeks to not only help audience members understand
basic principles of behavior, but also give practical pointers for working with problem behavior on a day-to-day basis. Though
this seminar is primarily geared toward working with children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, these behavior analytic principles
are beneficial to apply when working with anyone exhibiting problem behaviors.
Room 315:
Dawn Griffin - Confidently Teach Your Child to Read
You can do it! You can teach your child to read. Learn
a step by step method and sequence that will give you confidence as a parent-teacher. Learn the sequence of initially teaching
letter sounds all the way through to teaching multi-syllable words. Learn multi-sensory phonetic teaching approaches to reading
and spelling
Learn how to make homemade manipulatives. Learn how to help struggling readers. Learn reading comprehension
strategies.
Room 339: High School Helps Talk - Bob & Vickie Weller - Scholarships
This session will be of interest to college bound high school students and parent educators. The cost of a
college education, paying Missouri in-state tuition, (including room and board, food, books, tuition, etc.) can range from
$18,000 per year at a state university to over $48,000 a year to attend a private university such as Washington University.
One way to minimize the cost of this important educational opportunity is to receive FREE MONEY through scholarships. High
school students and parents will gain information on where to find scholarships and students will receive scholarship-interviewing
tips
Room 341: Carl Werner - How to Teach Evolution vs. Creation to Your Children without
Special Training in Science
Dr. Werner will walk the audience through the nuts and bolts of how to teach creation
and evolution, even if you do not have a science background. You will experience a "mini-class" as Dr. Werner
will show how home school parents how they can easily teach about evolution vs. creation in a credible way and prepare your
child for college.
Room 370: Room 370: Steve Demme - Being a Disciple and Training Disciples
in the Home
God calls us to teach and disciple our children while we are still being discipled ourselves.
This unique dynamic was designed by God to develop teacher and student alike. Steve shares his successes and failures of 20+
years training his 4 sons from young boys to grown men. He also shares insights about the father as the pastor of the home.
Room
372: Bill Federer - History Repeats Itself-Great Crises and Great Leaders (Youth)
Description to follow
Room
120: Barry Stebbing - Teaching Children Art at Home
This has been a very popular workshop over the years.
Mr. Stebbing, creator of How Great Thou Art Publications, enthusiastically encourages and directs parents in teaching art.
In this workshop he offers a wealth of incite, discussing such topics as: student frustration, teaching various age levels
and abilities, evaluating student art work, specific learning objectives, "fundamentals," how to teach beginning
painting, what to look for in an art program, and much more. Slide presentation with visuals clarifying the "how to's"
along with students examples. There will also be a 10 minute drawing lesson emphasizing, step-by-step, the building blocks,
or basic fundamentals, of drawing. Drawing Special for St. Louis Conference. Mr. Stebbing recommends a sketchbook
for the drawing workshops as students will have many delightful exercises to fill the first few pages. Special!
Sketchbook, 4 Drawing Pencils, Kneaded Eraser and Black Drawing Pen: A $13.00 value. Only $7.95 for the conference!
(ART)
Exhibitor workshops:
Room 312: Dr. Matthew Worth (Neurology Consultants/Midwest) - Brain Based Therapy
Modal
Room 314: Kathleen Knudson (Verity Institute) - Prepare now for college!
Room 360: Patricia Norton (Short
Vowel Phonics LLC) - Examining Reading Material for the Early Reader
3:30
- 4:30 pm (Saturday, April 10)
Auditorium: Jeannie Fulbright - If I
Could Do It Over
Looking back over our parenting years, don't we all wish we could have done some things differently?
What if you had someone give you advice that would have helped you avoid your biggest mistakes? In this talk, Jeannie shares
here greatest homeschooling mistakes in the hopes that it will save you from making those mistakes yourself. From choosing
curriculum, dealing with behavior, learning disabilities and sibling issues to having the right intentions, but the wrong
focus and being consumed with an avalanche of negative emotions, such as worry, anger, irritability, anxiety and fear of failure
- all brought on by lies she believed. Jeannie will share stories of the consequences she faced, as well as how Our Merciful
God was able to redeem the years the locusts had eaten and guide her into a vibrant, joyful and successful homeschool experience.
Room
300: Dianne Craft - Biology of Behavior and Learning - Part 2
Remember when your mom told you that "fish
is brain food"? The brain is 60% FAT. For the brain "connections" to be made properly, proper fats are
required. Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, ADD, hyperactivity, and Sensory Processing Problems may be conditions of essential fatty acid
deficiency. Getting the protocol amounts of DHA every day can make a huge difference in a child's speech fluency, mood, reading
ability, and reactions to outside stimuli like loud noises, clothing tags, and transitions. Get the real skinny on fats!
Learn how to help your child feel better, and thus act and learn better. New research is coming out every day on the
role of fats and memory, mood, and learning ability! It's also the number one cause of post-partum depression in moms, according
to all the Harvard studies.
Room 312: Vickie Servi - Putting the Pieces of the Puzzle Together
Feeling
overwhelmed? Confused about where to start? We have so many options as parents and teachers: ABA, Sensory
Integration, Neurodevelopmental Techniques, Cognitive Brain Therapy, Right Brain Learning, RDI, Sound Therapy, and so much
more... As a certified Educational Consultant and a veteran homeschool mother of three children with very different
learning abilities, I will share what I have learned and used over the years and help you put the pieces of the puzzle together
for your child. After all, no one program or therapy is a "cure all" for any learning challenge or disability,
just another piece of the puzzle to help make learning and life easier for our children.
Room
313: Katie Breneman and parent panel - Autism Spectrum Disorder: Insight and Support from Parent
You've
got questions? We've got answers. This seminar will give you the opportunity to ask questions to a panel of people
with professional knowledge and personal experience in working with children with special needs and children exhibiting problem
behaviors. This panel's knowledge and experience is primarily in working with children with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Room
315: Bill Federer - Learning Lasting Lessons from the Rise and Fall of Great Civilizations
Description
to follow
Room 339: High School Helps Talk - Open Forum on any High School Topic
Still
have unanswered questions? Ask our panel of veteran homeschool parents any additional questions about home educating the high
school student.
Room 341: Leslie Korhammer - Creating a Love of Writing
As
a child grows and progresses through school, writing becomes more and more important. At these early stages in elementary
school, it is necessary to develop writing skills, but perhaps just as vital, we must also foster and encourage writing without
helping our children develop distaste for the art. During this session, I will guide you through several different tips
and strategies to encourage writing in your elementary age child. We will create a collage of different activities for
you to do with your child to encourage writing. Our collage, based in Writer's Workshop, will begin with high interest
writing such as journaling, books, short stories, and poems. Then we will sculpt more effective sentence and paragraph
writing, and begin a work on revision. Finally, we will dabble in the art of essay writing, beginning a light brushstroke
of introductions, bodies, and conclusions in nonfiction writing. Upon completion of this seminar, you will have all
the necessary supplies to create and develop a love for writing in your child.
Room 370:
David Hazell - Working Dads Can Homeschool Too!!! (DADS) (Couples also)
What is your current role in your family's
homeschool? Believe it or not, busy dads can be involved in school too. There are simple things you can do to connect with
your children and help de-pressurize your wife's already overloaded day. David introduces interesting, easy, and time effective
ways for dads to become active parts in the homeschooling process, without interfering in the work day. Leading devotions,
instituting a "Mom's Day Off," guiding the slimy science experiments, reading books aloud, and going to the library,
are just a few of the things David will introduce. Homeschooling is hectic but in the truest sense it is eternal discipleship.
Learn to stand with your wife side-by-side and watch her sparkle.
Room 372: Kurt Bahr - Why
We as Homeschoolers Should Be Involved in Politics (Youth)
William Wilberforce was known as "God's politician."
Listen to Kurt Bahr explain first why we should be involved in politics, based on our right and privilege, our duty to keep
these rights for our children, and what the Bible says. Then Kurt will discuss what we can do to be good citizens, support
candidates who are moral, and get involved in influencing policy. (YOUTH)
Exhibitor workshops:
Room 312:
Jim Woychuck (Scripture Memory Fellowship) - Mental and Muscle-building through Scripture Memory
Room 314: Marc Carrier
(Values-Driven) - Project Management Tips for Entrepreneurial Teens and their Families
Room 360: Daniel Raj (Gospel
for Asia) - Your Family Can Make an Eternal Difference
