Never let your schooling interrupt your education.

Giveaway: Curriculum Package from Oak Meadow

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This giveaway has ended. The winner will be announced on the weekend!

Welcome to Back to School week here at Simple Homeschool! This week I’m bringing you reviews and awesome chances to win–perfect for back to school planning time.

I’m glad you’re visiting again today because I’m sharing one of my favorite homeschooling resources. I’m giving away a curriculum package from Oak Meadow.

I first discovered Oak Meadow about a year ago, and I’ve had the chance to write about their kindergarten and 1st grade programs before. They offer complete curriculum packages from PreK through 12th Grade, which you can purchase and use at home with your children.

They also offer an enrollment option in their accredited distance learning school. This allows students to receive full academic credit and transcripts for their work at home–as well as the support of an experienced teacher.

Find out more about Oak Meadow and how you can win.

For this review, Oak Meadow sent me their 2nd grade program (pictured above). The package includes the 36 week syllabus, Clay Fun, First Book of Nature Crafts, Intermediate Recorder, Animal Stories, The Voyages of Doctor Dolittle, Just So Stories, and a book of fables. It also includes two early readers for children: Ben and Meg and Animal Friends.

The bulk of the material is contained in the 36 week syllabus. Each week’s plan provides instructions for all subjects: circle time, language arts, math, social studies, science, art, music, and crafts. I appreciate that all subjects are in this one book – no need to shuffle back and forth between multiple curricula throughout the day!

My favorite aspect of the Oak Meadow curriculum is the use of stories throughout most subjects. My kids have been riveted by the nature stories and fairy tales we’ve read in previous grades. I love that even basic math concepts are presented through stories, which really appeal to the imagination of children this age.

The danger of any curriculum, I find, is that it can make a homeschooling parent feel overwhelmed. If not every assignment is completed, we can get insecure and start to worry, even though we know our children are learning all the time.

But I think what has made Oak Meadow work for my family is that the spirit of the curriculum really falls in line with the way in which a child develops. Because of this, I’ve had success in using and adapting it to best suit our family’s needs.

Consider this quote, regarding learning the times tables, from the introduction to the 2nd grade materials:

“Of course, if your child is not able to grasp the tables yet, don’t push them. If you become like a drill sergeant in your teaching, you are not helping your child and you are missing many of the advantages of home teaching.

The times when you and your child are learning new things together should be full of joy, not drudgery. If learning becomes drudgery, stop and look at what you are doing and ask yourself why you are doing it. Forget about teaching for a few days or weeks and just enjoy being with your child.”

See what I mean? I agree wholeheartedly–successful homeschooling always goes back to the quality of our relationships.

Oak Meadow also offers a helpful consulting service to homeschooling families using their curriculum. You can speak directly to one of their teachers, who are all familiar with the specifics of the curriculum as well as the unique dynamics of homeschooling.

Oak Meadow includes high academic standards in their programs, but they deliver assignments with imagination and creativity. This helps to develop the whole child–head, heart, and hands.

One Simple Homeschool reader will receive a curriculum package in the grade of your choice (grades K-8)  from Oak Meadow!

How to Win

Everyone has two chances to win. Here’s how:

1. Comment on this post, answering this question: Do you prefer a thorough curriculum that lays everything out for you or one that gives you a lot of room to improvise? (If you are reading this in an email, you must click over to enter your comment!)

2. ‘Like’ Oak Meadow and Simple Homeschool on Facebook. Then — this is important — you need to come back and leave an additional comment here, telling me you have done so.

This giveaway has ended. The winner will be announced on the weekend!

About Jamie C. Martin

Jamie is an introverted mom of three, who loves books, tea, and people (not always in that order), and avoids answering the phone when possible. She co-founded SimpleHomeschool.net in 2010 and began IntrovertedMoms.com in 2020.

Jamie is the author of four books, including Give Your Child the World (reached #9 on Amazon's Top 100 Best Sellers list), and her latest release, Introverted Mom (an ECPA bestseller). Her work has been featured by LeVar Burton of Reading Rainbow, the Washington Post, Parents, Today Parenting, and Psychology Today.

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. JennyS.

    I am doing some preschool homeschooling with my girls and I like curriculum with room to improvise because they are so young and I like to go with what they are interested in at that moment/day.

  2. Marina

    Yay!! I love OM!!! This would be wonderful to win! I have two boys and I’m just starting kinder with my 5 year old this year!!! Thanks!

  4. Sarah Vance

    I think I got it all…I left a comment answering the quetion under the post(not sure if thats what you meant)…already liked your pages weeks ago and liked Oak Meadows page……..and now leaving this comment letting you know I completed the steps…..

  5. Kelly Kravitz

    Do you prefer a thorough curriculum that lays everything out for you or one that gives you a lot of room to improvise?
    I like improvising with just about anything I use. If I see a ‘script’ to read from, I almost always change it!
    My kids are well-rounded and I will continue using this method. It’s me!
    Thank you!
    Kelly
    P.S. I already “liked” you on FB, that is how I found this post. And have now “liked” Oak Meadow on there, too.

  6. Rebecca

    I like curriculum that lays it all out for you… so that I can improvise when I want to and follow along when I want to.

    🙂

  7. Stephanie

    I think the idea of having a thorough curriculum is excellent. It makes life much easier for me. I would love to win this giveaway!

  11. Stacey E

    Well, this is going to be our first year homeschooling so I can’t say what I prefer yet but I am doing a bit of both. We are using a planned out curriculum for most of our subjects with a little improvising. We’ll see how it goes!

  12. Elizabeth Murphy

    I need room to breath. Guess it says a lot about my personality that I don’t like to be tried to tight. 🙂

  14. Erin O.

    I like the idea of having a curriculum that lets you be a little more flexible. It’s nice to have a path to follow but great when you can adapt it to make it your own.

  15. Camille

    I prefer a curriculum as a guideline, but where I can improvise/substitute/supplement on my own. Oak Meadow is on my wish list for 1st grade curriculum for the coming school year!

  17. LaTeaDah

    This looks like a wonderful curriculum. I like that it gives the parent-teacher room to improvise, which is my favorite kind of instructional technique.

  18. Shelly

    I prefer something that’s laid out for me in some subjects (math, grammar, spelling) but in other areas I like room to improvise. (arts, reading, history). Fantastic giveaway!!

  19. nancy

    I like the complete package, otherwise I will spend TOO much time trying to search, plan and worry. You can still improvise with the full thing!! 🙂

  20. aimee c.

    i do prefer choosing a curriculum that has everything set up for me already. it takes a lot of pressure of planning. thanks for the chance!

  22. Elizabeth Sept

    I like a little both. For subjects like math and science, I prefer a strict, already laid out curriculum. However, with literature, art and history I prefer wiggle room. I think its because I’m very comfortable with the three latter subjects while I was never strong in math and science.

  25. Kelly

    To answer your question: room to improvise is a must. I looked at the samples on the site and was impressed at the way the lessons were laid out. This is a great giveaway.

  27. Annie Raymond

    I am so excited that my friend sent me this link! My husband and I have been researching homeschool curriculums and we keep coming back to Oak Meadow.
    I “liked” Oak Meadow and Simple Homeschool as directed. Thank you for the opportunity to win a complete curriculum!

  30. Annemarie

    I like room to improvise. I already like you on FB now I like OM, too! Thanks, for the great giveaway!

    Annemarie

  31. Kei

    I’m not sure yet what kind of curriculum I’ll like. I thought I’d like having it all laid out for me, but then I found this whole wonderful world of choices, and decided to give the “picking and choosing” route a go this year.

  34. Christy Patterson

    Hi! This will be our first year homeschooling! I have a 9 year old that was previously in public school and a 5 year old that will homeschool from the very beginning! I would really love to have a curriculum that is thorough and concrete, yet doesn’t feel like we are fighting a “schedule”. I want my children to learn with flexibility and joy- and have their education be part of our lifestyle. I am still searching for a curriculum kit and I feel it would be a blessing to win this!!!

  35. Cassie

    What an awesome giveaway!

    I do enjoy having room to improvise. With having 3 little ones, a 2nd grader and two kindergarteners we need some wiggle room to make it work for everyone.

  37. April W

    I love a curriculum that lays things out so that i can see what the writers were imagining when coming up with the lessons, but I also like the lessons to be pretty stand alone so that I can sort through them and take what I want and leave the rest.

  38. Christie

    We’re halfway through our first year of homeschooling and I started with a complete and thorough curriculum which was a great help as I was homeschooling #1 and pregnant with #3. It was GREAT not to have to think TOO much particularly at the end of the pregnancy. Now that we have wet our feet and #3 has arrived and is fairly settled, I tweak the curriculum adding things and taking away. So now while I still appreciate the content of the curriculum, I like things being more freeing and making the curriculum work for US.

  39. Christie

    Already a “fan” on facebook and have now “liked” Oak Meadow. Thanks for the review!

  40. Christina

    My daughters are 1 and 3 and we’re getting a very early start on homeschooling. DH and I both went through public school so it’s new for both of us, so I think I’d like a curriculum with room to improvise, I do like an outline for suggestions, and love stories!!

  42. lauren

    i am not sure yet as this is our first real year of homeschool… but this website has helped me so much !! i love all the different takes and opinions and reviews of schedules and curriculum.. it really has been a huge blessing to my homeschool journey. 🙂

  43. melissa

    My preference depends upon what is going on in my life. I tend to use curriculum that allows for breathing room and my creativity.
    melissa’s latest post: The End

  45. Daily Woman

    I like the curriculum to be laid out for me but if we dont get through something we just do it until we get it.

  46. Keara

    We’re working on preschool right now so we don’t have a formal curriculum. I’ve been trying to figure out what I want to do as a next step. i think I am leaning towards a more complete curriculum to get started with and develop a comfort level then move onto a more eclectic child led approach

  49. Sarah

    I’m just getting started with preK/K this year, so I’m not exactly sure what I’ll end up liking. But I think to start I want something laid out for me, so I can get a feel for this teaching thing!

  50. Sonya

    I like a curriculum where I can improvise, but I also think it is helpful to see a curriculum laid out for me (I will just end up changing it to fit my needs).

  51. Sonya

    I already “liked” you on Facebook, but I just “liked” Oak Meadow! Thank you for a great giveaway!

  55. kate

    I love to have a full curriculum on hand and to prepare with, but that doesn’t mean I actually follow it in that close of detail, it’s just that I consider it’s fullness when I decide on the value. This is an excellent giveaway!! wow!

  58. Sarah C.

    I’m new to the world of homeschooling but as my daughter approaches pre-k age, I’m thinking about it and am interested in what I see here so far! I think I’d like something with a full and clear curriculum so that I can choose what works for us, if that makes sense. Thanks for this giveaway!

  62. Serena

    This will be our first year of homeschooling (Kindergarten), so, at this point, I like something layed out nice and neat for me. I don’t want to improvise too much right now.

  64. Mandy

    I like curriculum that leaves me some flexibility. I have already liked Simple Homeschool in the past and I just liked Oak meadow, thank you!!

  65. Jeannie

    I like having something with a week to week layout, even day-to-day so I have a strong spine and framework for our year. I like the flexibility of having it all laid out for me so that we can venture on a different trail if we want to, if that makes any sense to anyone else.

  67. Khadija

    I like a combination of structure and flexibility. I end up changing things around regardless!

  68. Tonia

    I personally like a thourough curriculum because I feel like there’s a lot more for me to work with. I tend to improvise no matter what curriculum I have, so the more information, the better. I absolutely love Oak Meadow (I used it for my daughter in 1st grade) and would love to use the next year. Thanks for the oppurtunity!

  69. Jenny Dunbar

    I like to have a general framework for the year and use the library to fill it in. But definitely want something set for math.

  70. Momma in Progress

    Have not started “officially” homeschooling yet, but I am looking for a flexible curriculum. I know I wouldn’t be able to just wing it, but at the same time I’m not sure I need a day-to-day plan. I have perused OM’s website before, though, and I like their stuff. Hmm . . . lots to think about!
    Okay; I am already a “fan” of Simple Homeschool on FB, but I will go “like” Oak Meadow right now.
    Momma in Progress’s latest post: More Thoughts on Homeschooling

  78. Kylie M.

    We haven’t started homeschooling yet, so I think I’ll like a full curriculum for guidance, and then I can pick & choose what I want to use.

  80. Sheri

    I’ve found I’m not as good at improvising as I’d like, so I like the more thorough, laid-out curriculum. Thanks for offering this great giveaway!

  82. Genevieve

    I need a curriculum that has lots of stuff to pick from, but it has to offer me the flexibility to leave some things out and do my own thing with my kids, too.

  83. Ali Federwitz

    I am still learning about what types of curriculum that works best for my family. I think that I want a thorough curriculum as I do feel confident that I can cut things out if they aren’t working for us. I’d rather have too much information and be able to sort through it than have not enough and be scrambling to fill in the gaps.

  89. Jenny

    I prefer both! I have to have some type of schedule in place, but it must serve me and my family not the other way around.

  90. Morgan

    I love to improvise and fill in the gaps with my child’s current interests. In fact that’s the very reason we use Oak Meadow!

  91. Jenny

    ooops, I hit enter too soon…we have been homeschooling for eight years now and have tried no schedule, no set curriculum and did not accomplish very much. We have also tried strict schedule, strict curriculum which resulted in lots of frustrating tears, mine and theirs.
    Jenny’s latest post: The Communion of Saints

  92. sue

    I like a curriculum that lays everything out for me but has the option to modify too. Thanks for this opportunity!

  93. Jess E.

    I’m not sure yet. We’re just beginning to explore the idea of homeschooling 🙂 I’d like to do kindergarten with my daughter next year.

  94. Samantha

    I like having everything laid out for me but I like having the flexibility to work faster/slower than the schedule in some subjects.

  95. lisa

    I love a curriculum that has everything laid out for me b/c then I can veer from it whenever we feel like it OR just go with what is presented to us. Thanks for this awesome giveaway! I wanted to get Oak Meadow this year, but couldn’t. This would be perfect for us next year!

  96. logsplitter

    I am a list-maker and list-checker, so packaged curriculums both appeal to me and stress me out (when I don’t complete), so I definitely prefer a curriculum that gives me the freedom to veer off the path.
    Thanks for the offer!

  98. Nora Bucy

    I tend to like a whole curriculum. It’s easy enough to adapt it to our needs, but I get lost and try to do too much given a lot of room. 🙂

  100. Elizabeth

    This will be my first year homeschooling our second grade daughter. At this point, I’m looking for a curriculum that does both–I want a curriculum that has things largely laid out for me, but still gives me the freedom to be flexible as I get more confident.

  102. Zsofia

    I think I prefer a curriculum that leaves room for improvisation. However,I feel that I can always improvise no matter how structured the curriculum.

  103. gretchen

    I love oak meadow. I like having a laid out plan at this point. I started out doing my own thing for years-but I overestimate what we can do in a day. Then I get frustrated. Oak meadow keeps me in tune with what a kid can do and not be overwhelmed LOL!
    gretchen’s latest post: Life story 20 years later…..

  107. Ashley

    I’m new to homeschooling so I’m still trying different things to find what works for us. Thanks for the chance to win!

  108. Brookiej

    I have been winging it, but feel like I should have a little more structure! Things easily go WAY off when I don’t take the time to lay out a plan…would be nice to have it done for me! 🙂
    Brookiej’s latest post: a nap

  109. Southern Gal

    I like a structured curriculum yet I deviate from the lesson plans to chase after a topic my son is interested in. I can make it flexible for our schedule and also have the assurance that there’s a plan in place when I’m not as energetic about the rabbit trails. 😉 My son will begin 4th grade soon. I would love to try this curriculum with him.
    Thank you!
    Southern Gal’s latest post: Multitudes Every Day

  110. Holly

    I like a curriculum that’s all laid out, because then it’s there if I want or need to follow it, but I can improvise as much or as little as our family needs.

  111. Alexandra

    Pick me pick me! This would be so perfect for my youngest. I spent a lot of time reading their curriculum package for grade 2, but opted out of it because of cost. We are using their high school biology though for my oldest and I am impressed with it!
    I am not sure if your giveway is available for Canada. I hope it is, but let me know if it isn’t. Thanks 🙂
    Alexandra’s latest post: Book Review : Charles Darwin :: Giants of Science Series

  112. Stephanie

    Since I’m just starting out with homeschooling, I appreciate something a little more structured. I am hoping that once I get into the swing of the homeschooling thing a little bit, I will be able to improvise more.

  114. Alexandra

    I added your page and Oak Meadow’s to my Canadian Home Learning page on Facebook (I already “liked” yours and also added Oak Meadow to my personal pages). Thanks!!

  115. Michelle Disney

    I do like a curriculum to be laid out to an extent but only insofar as to allow me to tailor it to meet the needs of my children!

  116. Mandi

    I prefer a curriculum with quite a bit of structure. If you want you can always improvise. It is much harder to add structure than it is to change a lesson or series of lessons to fit your child.

  118. Deb

    I like starting with a curriculum that is very structured, but I usually end up making substitutions and changes after we get started and see what is working for us and what isn’t.

  119. Omaira

    I like a bit of both depending on the subject. Arts, history, and reading as places for improvisation, but math, and science I’d like to follow guidelines. Thanks for having this great giveaway! 🙂

  120. Gwynyth

    I like curriculum that’s leaves some room for improvising and adapting to our families interests, but also lays out the fundamentals in an organized way that I can follow without a lot of prep.
    Thanks for the chance!

  122. Jodi

    Since I’m just starting out, I want a little more direction but I’m sure once I get the hang of our days I’ll want to improvise more and more.

  123. Lindsay Evermore

    I think I prefer a curriculum that’s laid out very specifically because I like concrete plans and ideas. I’d feel comfortable improvising within that.

    Thanks for the chance to win!

  126. andie

    i like the best of both worlds… i really like having my day laid out for me, but if we want to have a purely interest-led day and collect bugs for 4 hours, i want to be able to put the plans aside and collect bugs (or let my kids collect bugs…) 🙂
    andie’s latest post: haircut day

  128. Jennifer

    I like everything laid out so I know what I am doing but I love being flexible to skip over certain parts and not miss anything. I love Oak Meadows approach to nature and science!!!!

  129. Kerry Wick

    I liked both Simple Homeschool and Oak Meadow on Facebook. As a new homeschooler I love reading all the answers. Thank you.

  131. Melanie Rudd

    I really can’t say that I prefer either! Something with lots of instruction can be tweaked just as easily as another with plenty of wiggle room. I’ve learned to take what works for us, add in studies and activiites that I think are important to us, and leave the rest! This curriculum looks really sweet and, while I’m sure I would not follow it to the T, I think we could get a lot out of it!

    Thanks for the giveaway!

  132. Sarah G

    I’m definitely most interested in programs that give me a “back bone” of activities (especially in math and hard sciences) but allow for plenty of flexibility and creativity. Thanks for the chance to win!
    Sarah G’s latest post: Caleb: 13 Months

  133. Kerry Wick

    I really am not sure what I like or what they will do well at yet. This will be our first year of homeschooling. So far i’ve just been talking with them and getting a feel for what they are interested in now and going from there. It’s a scary step for me, I just want to do right by my kids. I am going to our local homeschool group meeting this week for the first time. I’m excited about that.

  134. Sandi

    I like a curriculum that lays everything out. I have a special needs child (11), a seven year old, and an infant so this is best for us now. 🙂 Plus I feel anything can be adjusted to better suit our needs.

  135. Nicki

    I like curriculum to be all laid out for me so that I can pick and choose what to do without using too much brainpower!

  138. Wendi S

    I like a curriculum that lays it all out for me, but is still flexible enough that I can change things up if I want to. I am not a “have to check all the boxes or I feel like I didn’t finish” kind of person, but I really like having those boxes to keep me a bit structured 🙂

    Thanks for this giveaway!

  139. Anne Hilker

    I like a curriculum that has some wiggle room for the days I’m feeling energetic and creative, and structure enough to get us by on the days I don’t!

  141. Kirsten

    This is my first year homeschooling, however I have a degree in elementary education. So while I do enjoy everything laid out, I also enjoy the freedom to adjust the program to fit my child’s needs.

  144. Jessica I

    Great give-away! I prefer some flexibility, although I feel free to change anything as needed, no matter how structured.

  147. shari

    we are starting our first year of homeschooling and I am truly scared and overwhelmed. we could not afford to purchase a curriculum like this one and are “winging it”. It’s a good thing my 7th grader is a self-learner! I would LOVE to have the lessons all planned out in advance this way since I am very structured and don’t do well “flying by the seat of my pants”. 🙂

  148. Jodi

    To answer your first question . . . . I like freedom but do so much better with structure and organization. I love that the syllabus is just one book. Our problem and my biggest frustration is toting teacher books around or not having the one that I need. From your review this curriculum just seems natural . . . and appears that it would really flow with my teaching style and my kids learning style. i’m really going to look into this for when we finish first grade this fall and I need something for second grade. Thanks!
    Jodi’s latest post: Wordless Wednesday: An Arranged Marriage

  149. Esther

    My natural tendency is to want to design it all myself…the problem is, I don’t have a good sense of the balance of different subjects or a sense of when I’ve covered something “enough.” (And honestly, I enjoy the research phase more than the pulling it all together phase!) When I try to DIY curriculum, I end up with huge gaps. I’ve used a couple of “open and say these words” style books and have found them a tremendous help (and relief). This year, we’re trying My Father’s World for the older children. (I’m still not totally sure what I’m doing with the younger ones.) I’m hoping that it will help me to figure out how to do things so maybe in the future I’ll be able to pull things together myself and do the odd combination of Montessori, Charlotte Mason and TJEd that I really want to do! 🙂

  150. Leigh Owens

    I like a curriculum that lays it all out for me. My brain can’t handle the turmoil of trying to improvise for three kids spaced so far apart. But I do improvise as I go along.

  151. Kim S.

    I do better when plans are laid out for me, though I think it is important to be flexible too. I love love love Oak Meadow and would love to win!

  154. Denise

    I love having everything laid out! I am flexible enough that I don’t have to completely follow it, but love having a guideline!

  155. Stacy

    I like a curriculum that has “everything”, but also has a little wiggle room so we can add in what we need to add or that might be of interest to my little ones at the time.

  156. Thia

    Because my children are small and quiet planning time is also small (lol) I do prefer something laid out for me.

  157. Amy B

    We’re new to homeschooling so I like having it laid out pretty well. It helps to have that structure.

  162. Debra

    Thank you for a wonderful giveaway! I am brand new to homeschooling this year, so I will have to say that I think I would like it best having the whole thing laid out for me.

  163. heidi sink

    We have a 4 year old and haven’t started homeschooling yet, but I think with my and his personality something laid out for us would be best. I like the idea you don’t have to do it all but that it is all there for me and I don’t have to come up with it on my own.

  165. Faye E. Hunt

    I like a balance of a well-thought out, thorough curriculum with some room to add my own thoughts/ideas to it. We have not officially begun homeschooling yet to our two year old son, but, this is what I would look for in curriculum. I have had my eye on Oak Meadow for some time now!

  169. Jessica

    I like having everything laid out with the ability to be flexible within that. Having one curriculum instead of bouncing is appealing as well!

  172. April

    I’m just starting into the homeschool world, but so far I like the lesson planed out for me, but still room for flexibility.

  173. Cindy

    We’re just getting started homeschooling our oldest (of 4) this Fall. I’m not sure if I like everything laid out, or the flexibility. I’ve seen Oak Meadow’s stuff and LOVED it! What a great way to start out our homeschooling adventures by winning their curriculum!

  178. Julie

    I prefer a curriculum that I can adjust along the way to our needs. There is just so much fun stuff out there to try. Also, having other little ones around can make sticking to a plan a little difficult.

  180. Nancy Duvall

    I really love that Oak Meadow lays everything out. I need the structure, but know it also allows for me the flexibility to adjust to my child’s abilities and needs. I would love to win this giveaway. Thanks for the wonderful resource for those of us new to homeschooling!

  184. Betsy

    I like something laid out for me. This will be my first year homeschooling so I’m trying to be prepared as much as possible. In all my homeschool curriculum research, I had never heard of Oak Meadows. I will definitely be looking into it more for next year.
    I liked you both on facebook.

  185. Denice

    I like a complete curriculum. I like following lesson plans, but dropping things that we run out of time for or aren’t working for us.

  187. Jen

    We LOVE using the Kindergarten curriculum by Oak Meadow. So this would come in so handy for next year!

    I like a mix of both – we have found the Oak Meadow style gives lots of direction and leaves room for parents to improvise and add in lots of other things too – to tie it all together.

    Thanks for the chance!

  189. Shelly

    I have never heard of Oak Meadow. Would love to give it a go. Planning is a great help with 4 to teach. Flexibility important too, as my 4 cracker jacks do not always agree with the plan.

  190. Ronessa

    I like a curriculum where there is a lot to chose from. I’d rather have more resources than not enough. So, I would say I like one that lays it all out, but that I can maneuver within. 😉

  193. Laura

    I LOVE the way this curriculum looks! We are going to be starting Kindergarten with our daughter and this looks simply wonderful. At this point, just starting out, the idea of a curriculum that lays everything out for me. I can imagine putting my own together at some point after we get the hang of it, but my brain works well with laid out lesson plans and directions. 🙂

  198. Christina

    I like a curriculum that gives me lots of room to improvise (and especially ones that give some suggestions on ways to do this).

  202. Shar Q

    I prefer a curriculum with room to improvise. I like to have a curriculum that gives me ideas, suggestions, and outlines so I can follow what I feel is best for my children. So excited about this one! Thanks!

  203. erica

    I like curriculum, but need room to improvise, seeing as my boys are improvisational 24/7. I think having something too strict and standard would create a lot of unnecessary head-butting and quarrels.
    Thanks for this opportunity! I had checked out Oak Meadow’s curriculum, but it was too pricey for my family. Winning this would be A-mazing!

  205. Angela in MT

    The truth is I can’t say for sure which curriculum style I prefer – this will be my first year of “official” homeschooling. The idealistic side of me would probably chose a more “loosey goosey” plan, while the practical side wouldn’t mind having it all laid out. We’ll see which one wins!
    Angela in MT’s latest post: July Daybook

  208. Lisa

    I think if the curriculum is well laid out and thourough that you then have the abilty to improvise. So, I think I would like a thourough curriculum that provided evreything then tailor it to my child. This is a wonderful giveaway!

  209. Jennifer C.

    I haven’t quite started homeschooling yet – my oldest is 4, but I think I’d like things laid out for me and then I think I’d have to “try” hard not to feel like we need to do everything!

  210. Peggy Dalley

    I have three different learners so I like a curriculum that tells me what to do and when to do it. Helps with accountability.

  211. Michelle

    I really like Oak Meadow’s curricula – from I can see in the samples, at least. We like room to improvise for sure – especially with the younger ages. Spontaneity in education is essential! Would love to use the Kindergarten curriculum with our oldest. Thanks for this giveaway! 🙂

  215. Michelle

    I’ve followed/liked Oak Meadow and Simple Homeschool on facebook for a while now. Love the updates!

  216. Tracy Schulman

    I prefer a balance between the two. We use Oak Meadow which lays everything out but since we are not enrolled it gives us the room to add and subtract different thing depending on if my Daughter needs more help in a certain area or is excelling in another.

  217. Andrea

    I like when things are laid out but simply and I like to have some room to improvise to. I don’t like to have a huge binder that I have to shuffle around in. I do appreciate suggestions for craft projects that tie in with the lesson. I have been eying Oak Meadow for a while.

  218. Jamie

    I prefer a thorough curriculum that lays everything out for me – I rather have “too much” info than not enough. I can always skip something that is laid out or decide to do my own thing.

  221. Jessica Zappia

    I just purchased the 6th grade curriculum-the first curriculum I have ever purchased! It was a big decision for us, but after looking at my friends’ Oak Meadow, I loved the ideas and the flexibility. I love being able to have a big picture to guide us, but we can take our own routes within that paradigm. What a wonderful giveaway!!! I would love to get the fourth grade curriculum for our son.

  223. Mama B

    Our curriculum to date has been loose and built around whatever we’ve put together. I’ve always hesitated to shell out large amounts of money for a single approach that may not work for us. Our son is “going into grade two” and I’d be interested in giving this curriculum a try.
    Mama B’s latest post: The flavours of Summer

  225. Christine

    I think I would like to have it all laid out for me, that way, I am free to be flexible when I want to, but also have the accountability of a plan to keep me on pace.

  226. Janet H

    I am just getting back into homeschooling….and I think I would like everything all together. But I am not having luck with that so I try to piece it together.

  227. Victoria

    Our home learning has been a bit of an afterthought as my kids attended preschool at a Free School. Now as they’re getting older and I want to ensure that they’ve got a good foundation in the tools of learning and expression (reading, writing, math) I’m looking for a good curriculum to use as a solid supplement to the work they’re doing at school. I feel that since their school experience is so loose I want a more thorough curriculum for home, though my style is to not follow directions too closely 😉
    Victoria’s latest post: Eco Notecard Set, apples

  228. Leigh

    I really enjoy everything being there in one place with the structure in place. Then I move on from there improvising and using my `own voice to make it feel like it’s mine. I want a curriculum I can trust, and it is written by professionals who have studies child development and really know what they are talking about, but then taking my individual family and their needs into consideration I am ultimitly the only one who can “teach” it best. I think of it as a triangle: student; teacher; curriculum. Thanks for the chance to win this fabulous curriculum

  229. Nicole

    I prefer a thorough curriculum that lays everything out for me. This is a awesome giveaway! Thanks!

  231. Nancy

    I really prefer to pluck and grab info and activities that interest our family — so I’m definitely in the “improvise” category. that said, I’ve heard wonderful things about Oak Meadow and have long wanted to give it a try. pick me, please!

  238. Andrea R

    I am just starting to research curriculum for kindergarten next year & it is overwhelming! I’d love to have a general plan laid out for me, but plenty of wiggle room to do what works best for my daughter’s learning style.

  240. Sue Klingseis

    I like a curriculum that has everything laid out for me. Then I can modify as I want/need.

  241. Louise

    I LOVE it when it is all laid out–I have 4 kids–8, 6, 3, and 8 months and I do not have time to spend doing alot of research or planning I like knowing that when the time slot opens up to do “school” its all ready for me….

  244. Samantha

    I prefer a curriculum that gives you room to improvise.
    I have heard lots of good things about Oak Meadow and always wanted to give it a try.
    We holding thumbs!!!

  246. Roxy Schow

    I like having it all laid out – I rarely follow it just as it says, but when I’m busy, then I don’t have to worry about coming up with something, and I’m always free to improvise.
    Roxy Schow’s latest post: :: right now ::

  248. Cara

    I like a curriculum that has everything laid out for me that has creative, engaging lesson ideas.

  252. Lauren

    I like giving my son room to be flexible. We are doing My Father’s World kindergarten in two or three days instead of the five or six. He seems to respond best to this schedule and that is a high priority for me in homeschooling.

  255. Jacquelyn

    I decided last year that I will use Oak Meadow when we start homeschooling Kindergarten this year. In researching curriculum, I just fell in love with OM’s style. I just haven’t gotten around to buying it yet! Would LOVE to win!

  256. Marti Grahl

    I’ve never looked at Oak Meadow before, but this looks wonderful! I have four daughters, and I think the youngest (6th grade) would really benefit from a program where it’s all in one package. For the past ten years, we’ve mostly pieced together each subject as needed. This seems great. I liked both Oak Meadow and Simple Homeschool on Facebook. I’m hoping to win, but if not, I might be looking at an Oak Meadow purchase in my future for DD#4!
    Marti Grahl’s latest post: Scene Becky

  261. kate o.

    i like when a curriculum is set out for me with ideas and lesson plans but then i also feel complete freedom to pick and choose what works for us.

  264. Lisa Allen

    I love the flexibility of homeschool, but I personally thrive on structure, so to be honest I need both and my daughter seems to be the same. We can change the time and order of what we are studying, but we both love the guidance offered by curriculum.

  265. Carlyn

    I like things to be laid out well, planned out for me. But I like the freedom in homeschooling to make things work for our own family. I appreciate having several possible ideas to think about, while not being required to complete every option.

  266. Lisa Allen

    I have already had Simple Homeschool and Oak Meadow on my facebook likes. I hope I can still be entered again. I don’t want to have to remove to reenter.

  267. Jennifer

    I started out wanting to piece everything together myself, but now I am starting to see the value of having something more structured. I’d like to try this for my DD who is entering kindergarten this year.
    Jennifer’s latest post: Back in the Saddle

  269. Jennifer Jones

    I like having room to improvise and be flexible. Having to much of a structured outline to follow caused me to feel overwhelmed and like a failure at times because we weren’t on the “timeline” that the book had laid out.

  276. Michele Villano

    I like to have a curriculum laid out for me since I’m a newbie and getting comfortable in as a HSing mama. That said, I also like to have some flexibility to cater to my children’s special interests to help them to love to learn. This looks like an amazing curriculum, and I will look into it much closer as a future source for HSing my children. Especially since I have a Pre-K child that I am very hesitant to enroll into public school next year.

  286. Amy

    I have an OM syllabus for K this year and can’t wait to start using it, no matter how terrified I am. I like that it gives you everything you need to start, but explains it in a way that allows you to improvise if you need to.
    Amy’s latest post: wildflowers

  287. Tisha

    I like having everything in one spot–knowing I’m not forgetting something is nice when it comes to education for my kiddos. The Oak Meadow curriculum looks really good!

  288. Melani

    I will be homeschooling for the first time this fall and, as a former Kindergarten teacher, I think I like the idea of having a specific curriculum and outline for lessons. I feel less over whelmed this way. Maybe as I feel more confident, I will break out of that a bit, but for now I like the curriculum that is laid out for me.

  290. Monica LaFond

    Because my child and I are brand-new to homeschooling, I’m looking a curriculum that will provide a thorough framework for us to use. A huge part of the appeal of homeschooling for me is the ability to tailor learning to my daughter’s needs and interests, so flexibility in a curriculum is important as well. We are excited to start the homeschooling experience and figure out what works for us.

  291. Amy

    Can I say both? I like having everything laid out for me, but also like to have room to add if I see fit – with manipulatives and such.

  294. Caroline

    I’m just getting into homeschooling with my son (not quite preschool age), so I’m leaning more towards resources that are a bit more laid out for to start with. I do want to be able to change things up, modify, supplement as we desire and need. And I imagine after I homeschool for a few years, I might feel more confident to have a more relaxed program.

    Oak Meadow sounds like a great fit for that, though. I appreciate the detail of how you explained the structure here! Thanks for this great opportunity!
    Caroline’s latest post: Behind Again – Adjusting Scripture Memorization Tactics

  297. Tisha

    I liked both pages! Thanks for the heads up about this opportunity. I’ll be checking this out a little more in depth…

  299. Sarah

    I like a curriculum that lays out what to do, then I can modify it and change things around to accomodate my child and our schedule. Thanks for another great giveaway! 🙂
    Sarah’s latest post: Quote of the Week

  302. Wendy

    I would love love love this – We are 2nd grade this year and I have wanted to get Oak Meadow but just didn’t have the funds to get it this year!!

    I love a structured program for me – on those days I need a little help and organization and one that allows for individuality and creativity with my daughter!!

  305. Guisla

    I like a curriculum that leaves room for improvising. I’m now perusing Oak Meadow and liking the encouragement it gives for the parent-teacher.

  308. thomasa

    This is our first year and I am already feeling overwhelmed! I want a curriculum that will be flexible. I really wanted Oak Meadow for my 2nd and 3rd graders but due to lack of funds we had to go with another option.

  309. Donna Dorsey

    I am a homeschooling mom to three boys and have always been interested in Oak Meadow’s curriculum but just never took the plunge. I do like a thorough curriculum, but I also like some flexibility. I am an optimist and sometimes try to have both. I think most curriculums can work both ways with a little effort. Would love to win this package and try out this curriculum. Thanks for sponsering the give away.

  310. Martha Posten

    I like a curriculum that gives me lots of room to improvise. I have 10 kids to home school. I want enough structure to feel confident I’m providing a solid foundation for them, but plenty of flexibility so I don’t feel like pull my hair out.

  311. Jennifer

    It depends on the day. Usually I need things laid out for me, but occasionally I’m inspired, creative, and like some room to improvise. 🙂

  316. Pam in Missouri

    This year I have pieced together our curriculum from multiple sources. I liked doing it but it has been A LOT of work. It would be nice to have a program completely laid out to have an easier time of it next year.

  317. Sara

    We didn’t use any sort of curriculum last year for kindergarten but this year I’m going to try loosely following The Well-Trained Mind. It would be great to try out an entire curriculum without having to pay for it!

  319. Katie

    I like lots of detail, but room for improvisation. We like schooling at home because of the way we can tailor education for each of our unique children.

  320. bobbie

    Both!!!..I always feel like i need something to direct me every step of the way!But then i have to tweak it just a little!:)

  321. Sheila

    I like both, depending on the year, or even the time of the year! If things outside of school life are hectic, like new baby hectic or for us, farming hectic like some Septembers and Mays, then I need a more thorough plan to just go to. Other times, I enjoy creating my own thing depending on what the kids are needing.

  322. Melissa D

    I’d like to have a full curriculum laid out, with options given for extra-curricular or similar options that teach the same concepts a bit differently. That way, if something doesn’t fit, I have alternatives.

  323. Anissa Chapman

    I would love to have this curriculum….its all laid out for me! i like having a plan of some sort!!!

  325. Lianna Hardin

    I like to pick and choose as I go with some beginning structure. This sounds like an interesting curriculum that could fit our 5th grader’s needs.

  326. silver

    I like it to be laid out. I’m not that creative mom that can come up with my own lessons and unit studies.

  331. Lucy

    I like something that gives me room to improvise, but which also gives me a starting point for subjects I’m not as confident in.

    This looks amazing! Thanks!

  332. Kimberly

    I like a curriculum that is more thorough–I know I can adjust it if I need to, but I like one that is complete enough that if I’m having a busy week, I can just sit down and teach out of it as-is.

  334. Lucy

    Liked both Oak Meadow and Simple Homeschool on FB – I already like most of the other simple living media pages – don’t know how I missed Simple Homeschool!

  336. Amber

    I like a curriculum that lays it all out for me. That way if I don’t have the time to be creative, it’s ready for us.

  340. Jen

    At this stage in life, I prefer it laid out for me. I think as my kids get older, I would like a little more flexibility. Superb giveaway!

  343. illya gonzalez

    I am a true fan of Oak Meadow and I most definitively prefer a thorough curriculum that lays everything out for me.

  344. Knocked Up and Nursing

    I like room to improvise. BUT, as a first time homeschooler part of me desired that preparedness.

  347. Jocelyn

    I am so new to this and have so many little ones underfoot I want something thats holds my hand.

  349. Angela

    We’re just beginning our homeschooling journey so I like the idea of some structure but with plenty of room for us to still “breathe”.

  350. Kim Krabach

    I am new to homeschooling, so I am still figuring out a rhythm that works for us. I prefer a curriculum that is flexible and gives me room to improvise, so that I can tailor it to my son. When thinking about curriculum, it is very easy to feel overwhelmed by all the choices and all the cost potentially involved.

  354. Alisa

    We are just starting out on this homeschool adventure so I don’t really know yet! I think at the beginning though I might like something a little more laid out for me!

  356. Lisa

    I’ve never found a complete curriculum that I like so I use many. I like to have flexibility in school but I love my planner.

  357. Megan

    Although I am just heading into my first year-eeks-of homeschooling, and have never had to choose a curriculum, I’m confident that I would like a thorough curriculum. Which would enable me to be as flexible as possible.

  358. Brittany

    I’m just starting out on this journey with my 5 year-old! I want both flexibility and a basic structure to help me stay on course!

  362. Karen

    It depends on the kid – some of mine need flexibility and some need the consistency of a day to day laid out approach. I go back and forth depending on my energy and life situation.

  363. Lora

    I do not know which style I prefer as yet. I’ve created my preschool “curriculum” from scratch but am feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of doing that for kindergarten.

  367. Meghan

    I like a curriculum that can serve as a framework that helps lay out what I need to do and gives me a sense of flow for the day. So I guess in that sense I like flexibility.

  369. Karma

    Although I believe I am capable to handle a very open cirriculum, I do feel the need for things to be laid out as I get started with four young kids. In time, I’m sure I’ll adjust as needed.

  370. gabrielle

    We are just starting out but I think I would prefer something laid out for me but with the flexibility to move at our own pace.

    Thanks!

  375. Ann

    In like both types of curriculum. I like all the info to be included but allows me “wiggle room” to adapt as needed for our needs.

  377. Anna Shearouse

    This year I have a 5th, 3rd, and k-5. My style has changed from when I first started. Early on I wanted it all layed out for me ,but now I like to have more flexibility and enjoy gathering from different places. I want learning to be an adventure and full of joy. Hope I win!!!

  381. Tiffany H.

    I like the best of both–starting with a structure that I can tailor to my son’s needs. I’ve been very curious about Oak Meadow. It sounds like a great curriculum.

  383. Samantha Tara

    Hello and thanks so much for the amazing giveaway!

    For me, I like a well laid-out curriculum. It’s great to depend on so you don’t have the extra stress of looking for info all the time. Ironically, this helps me to relax and have the confidence to improvise, using my own creativity to sculpt my lessons. So I suppose in a way the two methods compliment each other for me!

    ^__^

  387. Jess

    I am a new homeschool mom but I think that a thorough curriculum is good for us, but I will always improvise and add to whatever we do. I’d love to win!
    Jess’s latest post: gap

  388. Megan

    Just starting out, a laid out curriculum with flexibility would be a great place to start.. or rather continue the home learning journey :o)

  393. Crystal Bowden

    I like a flexible curriculum! I have also liked Oak Meadow and Simple Homeschool on Facebook. 🙂

  396. Melissa

    I like curriculum that lets me add touches of my own to it. I have twins but they are very different learners with different abilities.

  402. DW

    I prefer a organized, layed out curriculum. I want everything there planned out for me for the whole year. Then I can feel free to change things up as I want.
    It makes me feel better.

  403. Lauren

    This will be our second year using Oak Meadow and I love that I have flexible syllabus given to me. We enrolled in the program and our “helper teacher”, as she has been so named by my little ones, allowed us to do our thing but was a great sounding board. A rigid curriculum would, in my opinion, defeat the purpose of why I homeschool. I do it to tend to their individual-ness so that they can know themselves and be a better part of the community. I like the lessons drawn up for me but I get to have my own say as well and move with my little one as they need it.

  405. Kim

    I prefer a more laid back approach. Both my sons attended a cooperative preschool. The coop philosophy is “learning through play.” I don’t want to feel like a drill instructor when presenting new concepts to my kids.

  408. kathleen

    since i have multiple children and a busy schedule, i like flexibility, however i like an overview that keeps me on track and focused on covering the material that needs to be covered.

  410. Heather Mattison

    I prefer a curriculum that is complete but is also flexible. I want to be able to adapt the curriculum and the activities to the needs of my child, and to the time frame that works for my family. However a complete curriculum helps me make sure that I am including everything I should.

    P.S. I like both Oakmeadow and Simple Homeschool on Facebook!

  412. Kara H.

    We haven’t officially started our homeschool journey (my kids are only 3 and 4) but so far I am more drawn to improvising. That may change as my kids get older.

  413. Jeannette longo

    I am just starting to think about pre-k homeschooling, but I know I need a strict curriculum to keep me on track.

    Liked both on Facebook!

  415. karin

    I love the freedom and space to create and build on a wonderful foundation. We will be using Oakmeadow for the first time this year and are really looking forward to it.

  416. Liann S

    I prefer a thorough curriculum that lays everything out for you… I tried to improvise last year and I felt I did not accomplish as much during the day.

  419. sarah

    i always improvise per the situation of each day, but i do appreciate having a structured curriculum to fall back on and keep our creative day dreaming clan on track.

  421. Donna Gates

    I’ve liked them both and would love to try a complete curriculum for once and I have looked at Oak Meadow before so worth a try if I win. Good luck everyone.

  424. MelK

    We’ve been pretty unschooly up until this point, but are feeling the need for more structure. So I’d prefer having a structure that’s flexible (best of both worlds).

  426. Rachel

    Being new to homeschooling I think at first I’ll prefer a curriculum that lays everything out for me…at least for the first year.

  429. Keri Travis

    I like a clear lay out. I love to change and create as well, but having a good plan to fall back on is always nice. Like having a plan for dinner even if you decide to make something else. I can rest easy knowing there’s a back up plan! I am using oak meadow with my son this year for the first time. Can’t wait!!

  430. Sarah Wiegel

    Since my son is just entering kindergarten age I believe I would prefer a thorough curriculum that lays everything out for me since it would all be new to me.

  431. Jane

    I like a curriculum that has everything that I need, and yet I still take the liberty to go off and do my own thing on occasion. I love that I can do both with ease with Oak Meadow.
    I’m already a facebook liker 😉

  432. Sara

    I like a more flexible approach to homeschooling. But I also like to have an organized curriculum to fall back on. Thanks for the opportunity to win this!

  434. Casey C

    I really like the idea of a curriculum that has everything together for us, but I know because of our family’s special circumstances we require a good deal of flexibility. Oak Meadow looks perfect for us!

  435. Annie Seier

    I like having things laid out with some room to improvise. It is nice to have a back-up plan in case the improvisation does not work as planned! 🙂

  436. Shel

    One of the reasons that I am looking forward to using the Oak Meadow curriculum is that I feel it is how we already are just put down on paper. Part of why I adore homeschooling is that it allows us to go with the flow and be flexible and I love that this curriculum embraces that! I don’t want to be a slave to the curriculim but sometimes it’s nice to have something to lean on too! 🙂

  437. Casey C

    I already “liked” oak meadow but I now like you too! I’m really glad I found your site!

  440. Michelle Wulf

    I THINK I prefer a thoroughly laid out curriculum, but I am not quite to the starting point, yet. 🙂 My oldest is three, but I am really leaning towards doing the homeschool route–I was homeschooled through 2nd grade, then 5th grade and 8th grade, too. My 5 siblings also did a mixture of schoolings. 🙂 Thanks for the opportunity!

  443. Heather

    I like having room to improvise, but I feel I could work with almost any curriculum and make it work for us. Thanks!

  444. Anneline

    Would love to win an awesome OakMeadow Curriculum. We have only just started a few months back with homeschooling. And i think it really helps to have a curriculum that is set out completely for you. But i like to have it flexible at the same time. Allowing us to get sidetracked and perhaps take a little holiday from schooling. And then when we get back to schooling we can just pick up where we left off.

  447. Amy

    I like a mixture. I like it to be flexible, but it’s nice if there’s some structure to keep things going as they should. I REALLY want to give Oak Meadow a try, everything I read seems like it would be the perfect fit for my little girl!!

  448. Genevieve

    I love to think I like liberty in the curriculum but having a good guideline makes our life much simpler!

  449. April

    I honestly like to have a little room in my curriculum. There are days when a great lesson will just appear and I feel its better to take advantage of it than to let the opportunity pass by.

  450. susan

    I like a homeschool method that lays everything out for me. Then I can pick and choose what works best for us. That way, I dont have to re-invent the wheel, so to speak.

  451. Kama Ogden

    Hi new here but I loved your review of the Oakmeadow curriculum. I was already planning to use them but you really confirmed it for me.

    I am new to home schooling so I think I prefer an organized laid out complete curriculum.

  453. Kama Ogden

    I also liked you on Facebook not hard to do since I look forward to learning more about home schooling from your site. Thanks!

  454. Ginger

    I prefer a flexible curriculum. I have four lovely littles of various ages and flexibility is one of the things we love about home education.

  457. Deidre

    My daughter is not quite old enough, so we haven’t started using a curriculum yet. Oak Meadow is what I have my eye on for when she gets older, though. I’m sure I will prefer to have something that allows me the flexibility to improvise. I would love to win the Kindergarten curriculum to get us started!

  463. Kristin

    Oh! I wish I knew the answer to the question. I have an almost-four-year-old who will be homeschooled (or already is, depending on how you look at it), but I am just now looking into whether I want more or less freedom in a curriculum. I think right now I want less (because I’m tired, with a baby) but once I start sleeping again I’d like to have more freedom to choose how we spend our days.

  464. J Engelland

    I like to improvise quite a bit… but as my daughter gets older, I think I need to add a little more structure.

  465. Leslie M.P.

    I think there are advantages to both. I generally go with something with lots of wiggle room, but there are days when I wish we had everything laid out for us and ready to go.

  469. J Engelland

    I had already “liked” Simple Homeschool on FB, and I just “liked” Oak Meadow as well.

  470. Nichole Goff

    Gratitude!
    I like a good combination of both laid out curriculum and improvisation. There are some subjects I can really teach forward, and there are some I totally need help with. I cannot do this Journey alone. There is a burden released when I can ask for help AND focus on loving my boys. I am home educating bc I want my boys to have space to unfold, enjoy life, and have opportunities in the future, bc of how they were nurtured for what they love and are good at.
    I would appreciate the opportunity to win this Give-Away.
    Nichole

  472. Jami

    I like flexibility, but it’s not that hard to adapt even the most laid-out of programs. Oak Meadow strikes a nice balance.

  474. Heather Capewell

    Do you prefer a thorough curriculum that lays everything out for you or one that gives you a lot of room to improvise?

    I have to have room or feel i have room to improvise. Children are a lot like the ocean, sometimes calm & sometimes stormy, so if i need to adjust to their mood I need to be able to improvise in our schooling.

    Wonderful write up, we chose oak meadow this year for our eldest (3rd grade). This will be the 3rd full curriculum we are trying this year and I hope it’ll be a good fit.

  475. Heidi D

    I prefer a laid out curriculum. I am new, and will improvise always, but the structure gives me something to work with.

  478. cheryl

    I love Simple Homeschool and Oak Medows .

    I love having it layed out for me and not have to worried about what
    needs to be done and when its do. plus i also like haveing the flexibilty to
    change when my youngest is not into something or doesn’t want to study
    that subject at that time .

  479. Gina

    I do prefer a curriculum with everything laid out but that doesn’t mean I don’t alter it, skip stuff, add other things, etc. 🙂

  481. Sylvia Avila Molina

    I posted on your facebook page: The curriculum seems to allow for personal creativity and that is always good for both: student and teacher.

  482. Missy

    I like to have it all laid out..but I still improvise.. just prefer, for lazy days, to have the option.

  484. Autumn

    I prefer the curriculum to be planned out. Otherwise, I start to feel lost. There are so many different methods/activities/etc. to educate, and those options can seem overwhelming.

  486. Lis L.

    This will be our second year homeschooling (2nd grade and K) and we are looking for a more flexible curriculum. The one we had been using was too structured and felt too much like school. Every morning there was moaning and groaning about getting started with the day and that is what I want to get away from. I want my kids to have fun and enjoy school. They both love learning and are both very smart and so using a curriculum that we can work with and around would be ideal. I don’t want it all to be sit down and do these planned lessons. I want the day to take us wherever it wants. Whether it be outdoors, to a museum or taking an entire day to focus on one thing that they feel is important. I want to be able to enjoy those days to the fullest and not have to worry about what lesson was missed and how to make it up. I’d rather like to take each day as it comes.

    I already “liked” Oak Meadow, and now Simple Homeschool.

  487. Missy

    I already ‘liked’ Oak Meadow and just now ‘liked’ Simple Homeschool! Thanks for the giveaway!!

  490. Cheryl Moore

    Hello Jamie,
    Funny as I say both….I do like a complete curriculum as a guide, yet we tend to add and play around with it as we go. Thanks so much for this wonderful opportunity. I have looked at Oak Meadow many times throughout the years.

    Blessings,
    Cheryl Moore

  494. Jacquelyn

    I am new to homeschooling but I think I would like a curriculum somewhere in between. I like that curriculum that lay it all out make sure you are meeting good academic standards but I also love homeschooling because of the freedom it provides. Although I definitely have the self-confidence to add or subtract to any curriculum in ways that would benefit my child! I have my fingers crossed for the giveaway!

  499. Bethany

    I have liked flexible curriculum but the more kids I have and the older they get, I’m starting to want more structure…

  500. Yvette Parsons

    I love a new, thorough curriculum where you can stay in the same workbook. I too am new to homeschooling, so every little bit helps. Thanks!

  503. Lisa

    I prefer using a curriculum that has things laid out for me. Even though it sounds appealing to be creative and improvise, I do not have the time nor the energy to do all of that. 🙂 I appreciate when others pave the way with their prep and I am able to teach the wonderful material.

  504. Jacquelyn

    Yea! I “liked” simple homeschool and oak meadow on facebook 🙂 fingers still crossed. What a great give away.

  505. Yvette Parsons

    I just “liked” Oak Meadows on facebook and I already “like” Simple Homeschool. Thanks so much!

  506. Janell

    I like flexibility first, but I also need to have some structure built in. That’s why we’re starting with Oak Meadow this year. It’s flexibility and the encouragement to adjust it to the needs of your own family has been a real incentive to try it out with both my daughter (at the kindergarten age) and my son (who is “entering” fifth grade). Thanks!

  507. Sonya

    I have always just put my curriculum together myself. I would LOVE to find somewhere that will take the pieces that I love and add to it what I’m still struggling to incorporate. Oak Meadow seems to have a lot to offer where I need it! Hoping to win!

  508. deb holter

    I have been leaning toward Oak Meadows curriculum (we are not quite school age) I read The Heart of Learning and I am sold. This is totally in keeping with my personal educational philosophy. I can hardly wait to start “first grade”!

  511. Cindy

    I would like to start homeschooling my children and because I do not quite know what I am doing, would much prefer something where there is little room for improvisation.

  512. Jo

    I prefer everything to be laid out with minimal prep, otherwise I always forget the prep work and I’m scrambling to get the lesson ready. Oak Meadow looks wonderful!

  515. Heather Cardenas

    I think I would prefer to have my curriculum all laid out for me this first year. I am new to this so I can decide next year if I want to be more creative. I also “liked” both sites on Facebook:) Thanks for this giveaway!
    Heather Cardenas’s latest post: Peaks and Valleys

  516. Kristy

    I like things that are all laid out there for me. If I feel like improvising I can, but when theres a plan for me I am most comfortable and happy.

  518. Jeannie

    I prefer curriculum that provides lots of resources and lays things out pretty simply. Not because I don’t have to improvise though; I think it actually makes it easier to improvise when you have good resources to fall back on. When I feel like I have a good structure and rhythm, I find it easier and more fun to try new things–and it’s not such a disaster if the new things don’t work out.

  520. Tabitha

    I prefer a homeschool curriculum that lays everything out for me. I am not even close to a creative person and I’m not that organized. I like the idea of opening a book and it tells me what to do, step by step, every day. I also love the idea of reading books being part of the curriculum. I really enjoy teaching through reading and leaving the writing to the necessary subjects, spelling, math, handwriting, etc. My son is going into the second grade and I would love to try Oak Meadow. He is my oldest, so if we like it, I would use it for years to come.

  522. Tracey

    We use a curriculum that is very thorough – however I do not feel the need to do it exactly and I do add in a few things here and there. I would love to try out Oak Meadow with my kindergardener. I think the storytelling, art and nature would be perfect for her!

  523. Josh

    Definitely would want a curriculum that included everything we need to homeschool our four children.

  524. Lyndsey

    I agree with the quality of relationships with our children is the most important thing. I like flexibility with a bit of structure, I love Oak Meadows rhythm to the day but it has the option to flow with your child and develop around them. I’m coming back to homeschooling after a brief venture into the world of government-led education, we most definitely love homeschooling and will be using Oak meadow again.

  525. Sheila

    I know my daughter would love this curriculum and she needs something that includes everything, since she has not started yet.

  529. Steph

    We are eclectic home schoolers for the most part, so I definitely prefer something that gives me room to improvise.

  530. Tammy Dovichak

    I prefer a curriculum that allows room to improvise. I want to be able to use our surroundings as much as possible… Not just teach from a book.

  531. Rose

    Well, we’ve only been homeschooling for 9 months, but for us it’s about flexibility. Although I must admit, just buying a curriculum and following it has me tempted! I sure would like to give it a try.

  536. Kimmy

    I’ve always like piecing together curriculums to gain flexibility.oak meadow seems to offer room to wiggle.

  538. Dayna

    I would love to win this! Have been wanting to purchase for years but haven’t yet.

    I like a curriculum that is both laid out for me and flexible, so I can choose to use/not use/rearrange things as they work for us. Thanks for the giveaway!

  539. Kristen

    I prefer material that is all laid out. On days I’m not creative, this helps fuel creativity for me by following the lessons and *learning* about it as we go. On days I’m more creative or the spirit moves us, we can abondon details of the lesson and still hit the big picture!

    I’m friends with both Oak Meadow and Simple Homeschool on facebook!

    Thanks!

  540. Maia

    I’m still trying to figure out my style. 🙂 I enjoyed the unit study I did a few years ago, then last year tried the scheduled thing, but ended up doing my own thing with their stuff! This would be great! The math looks so cute! 😉

  542. Becca

    I prefer something that’s already put together for me. That way I can add on if I want to, but if I don’t have time everything will still be okay :)!

  545. Tamara A.

    I like a curriculum that has everything laid out, but has a great deal of flexibility in it. More like core subject matter and then a few different activities that I can choose from to best suit my child’s educational and learning styles.

  546. Pamela Wolfe

    I liked Oak Meadow on facebook I already had liked Simple Homeschool a while ago 🙂
    I like it laid out for me but I always improvise some what ! I liked the what I saw of the curriculum above keeping my fingers crossed 🙂 Would love to win !!!

  551. Kimmy

    Already like oak Meadow and just like Simple Homeschool which is a pleasure to have discovered!

  553. Caitlin Loverin

    I prefer a curriculum that lays it all out in a structured way, but that also allows for flexibility and creativity. Which is why I love Oak Meadow and have used it for several years now.

  555. Tiff

    I am finding in my first full year with OM, that I like an approach that gives me the best of both worlds. I prefer a curric. that is thorough and able to give a solid year of instruction, while at the same time has no interest in overwhelming either student or parent. I can add in as many novels or bird trails I find relating to Soc. Studies, or Sci. topics without feeling we won’t have time to complete them and what is in the instructor guides. OM has created this balance quite nicely in my opinion!

  560. Cara

    My highschooler LOVES Oak Meadow and I love that it is organized by the week w/ readings and projects to choose from. It is creative, thought provoking and fun, making for a well rounded education. I have 2 younger homeschoolers and would love to start them out with such a wonderful curruculum. Thank you for the opportunity to win such a great curriculum for my 7 year old son. 🙂

  561. Amelia Tummalapalli

    I have been homeschooling for 5 years (three kids) and I used OM years ago when my kids were young. We loved the OM style. As I’ve used many things, I’ve always thought back to our OM days where life was a bit more carefree, and I got to have a lot of flexibility in how I taught my children. I’d really love to to that again. This year I’m homeschooling only my two 11 year old girls. My son is going to start 9th grade this year. He needed much more structure and because of that we all used more structure in our approach, but I’m ready to relax our homeschooling adventures to fit the needs of my daughters.

    Thanks for considering our family for this give away!
    Amelia

  562. Amelia Tummalapalli

    Also, I’ve “liked” both Oak Meadow and Simple Homeschool. Thanks again!
    Amelia

  564. Brandie Lujan

    I love Oak Meadow because it is just that…it is structured but there is room to improvise. It is such a positive learning experience and bonding experience for me and my children.
    I already have like selected for Oak Meadow and Simple Homeschool on facebook! Would love to win Oak Meadow Curriculum!

  565. Teresa Matz

    In the eight years that we have home schooled I have never used a “laid out” curriculum, but would really like to try it with a few of my younger kids.

  566. Jen Rice

    I think I would rather have everything laid out (and then improvisation is a choice!), but we are just starting, so this is just a guess!

  570. Danae

    I prefer something structured but not scripted. We have used Oak Meadow in the past for Kindergarten and First Grade. We would LOVE to win this giveaway!!

  571. Ingrid

    I am rather eclectic. But this year I hope to unify my approach for organizational sake. Oak Meadows might do just that! Thanks.

  572. Krista

    Our family has used Oak Meadow for five years and we love it! I just “liked” Simple Homeschool–happy to find you.

  573. Erica B.

    Our family is in the process of laying ground work so that by next year we can make the leap. I think starting out a laid out curriculum would work for us in the beginning as we transition.

  575. Betsey

    I like a combination…having it laid out, so I know where we need to be with everything, but then adjusting as much as necessary to our interests and the kids’ needs! Thanks!

  576. Jeana

    I’ve just started looking into this curriculum and I’m very interested in learning more about it. I’ve never been one to want to go with a curriculum but I felt I needed some sort of guide to help me keep on task! Oak Meadow seemed perfect for our family.

  580. Danae

    I just “liked” Simple Homeschool and Oak Meadow on Facebook. Thanks for the fantastic giveaway!

  582. Dee

    I usually prefer a thorough curriculum that lays everything out, but I do like to add my own “tweaks” here and there. 🙂

  583. Heather

    We are an unschool-y family and as such enjoy a flexible curriculum. My children really love Oak Meadow. It offers just enough direction and ideas and unfolds in a very natural manor.

  587. Thomasa

    I want a curriculum that allows us to be flexible. I love this curriculum and really want it for my 2nd and 3rd grader but it just isn’t in our budget. Crossing my fingers and toes that we might be blessed with this.

  589. Megan

    I like a curriculum that is thorough but gives wiggle room for some creativity, so middle ground I guess? I love Oak Meadow and know families who use and love it, too!

  590. Candace

    We have yet to begin our journey into homeschooling (my daughter is almost 2 1/2), but I know that I will want to use a curriculum in which I am able to improvise. I feel the learning experience should be flexible and individual to each child. Thank you for this opportunity!

  592. Samantha S.

    I like improvisation! Hope to start homeschooling in a year. And I like Simple Homeschooling and Oak Meadows on FB!

  593. Rachel W.

    I am just starting the home school journey with my 4 year old, I think at this point a curriculum that plans things for me a bit would help this process to seem less overwhelming. Thank you for your site.

  595. Layla

    I am a first year homeschooler and would LOVE to use Oak Meadow curriculum. “Simplehomeschool” is a great sight!

  597. Maggie

    I like a curriculum that leaves a bit of playroom and improvisation.
    Right now for first grade I put my own curriculum together, but would love to have some help for second grade!

  598. Melissa

    I prefer a curriculum that gives you a lot of room to improvise, but not too much room. I still need helping planning and teaching.

  600. Jordan

    We are on the fence about using curriculum or not since this is our first year of homeschooling. I have been looking into Oak Meadow & I love how it’s laid out.

  602. Michelle

    I love Oak Meadow curriculum. I like that it is nature based in a lot of areas and that everything is laid out. I like that there is room for your own studies too. it is a very comprehensive program.

  603. Theresa

    This will be my first year homeschooling so I would like a curriculum that has everything laid out already but that can still be flexible and creative with.

  604. jennyann1126

    I do not like a boxed curriculum. I like the idea of organization, but like a more organic approach taking into my son’s interests…letting him lead the way for discovery.

  606. Amy E.

    I would prefer a curriculum with everything laid out. I feel like that gives me a lot of guidance and I cal still add my own personal touches.

  609. Bess W

    I think that I would prefer a curriculum which allows for room to improvise. I’m sure I would get lots of great ideas from a structured curriculum, and then go on a teaching tangent depending on what my kids showed the greatest interest in. Would love to win this Oak Meadow set and start the kids off right!

  614. Brandi Hansen

    I am less overwhelmed by a curriculum that leaves me a lot of room to make it our own. I like the ideas and inspiration that a well-laid out curriculum offers, but I will change it up to suit our needs……. I have never been one to follow a recipe or pattern exactly 😉

  615. Erica G.

    I am looking for a program that has the flexibility to pursue a little bit of both – homeschooling will be a new experience for our family and so I’m very anxious to do well and I feel like a structured curriculum will be reassuring in this regard. However, at the same time, I also want to make sure that we don’t get so lost in rigidity that I lose sight of some of the many positive reasons why we are chosing this educational route, including the enjoyable time we will spend exploring the world together and learning at a pace that is tailored to my child.

  617. erica halstead

    I LOVE Oak Meadow. I like the fact that it allows room to add in other things, and it’s so gentle that you can wiggle a lot also! I use them as my spine.

  619. Susan E

    This will be our first year homeschooling and I’ve already heard great things about Oak Meadow. I’d love a first grade curriculum that will inspire my child, especially since he’s so into stories and literacy, but will give me room to allow for his interests and our pace.

  621. Melis

    I appreciate the guidance of a laid-out curriculum, But I also have to admit to liking the fact that you are on your child’s time line of learning, rather then a mandated “this is how much you have to learn and we only have until this month because then you have to take a test whether you are ready or not.”
    Melis’s latest post: Sand in the Hourglass

  622. Erica McAnally

    I love the flexibility that Oak Meadow entails. I can add in other stuff as needed!

  623. tuesday

    I prefer to have a bit of room to improvise but not too much because I have more than one or 2 kids to make sure they get things done in a well rounded manor.

  628. Cathy

    I use Oak Meadow as a teacher’s resource, dipping in and just using parts. We tend to be more traditional Steiner-inspired homeschoolers. It’s great to have everything laid out for me, but I wouldn’t actually use it in that way, iukwim. I use packaged curriculum for inspiration and as a guide.

    If I won, I would like a grade three pack. Thank you!

  629. Heather Gratton

    I like having room to improvise. Each child is so different and that is the wonderful part about homeschooling…. you can cater to each child!

  630. Julie Gonsalves

    I like curriculum that leaves lots of wiggle room for improvisation. Our family just isn’t cut out for strict structure!

  631. Katie

    I enjoy a little of both worlds. It’s nice to have everything laid out for you with the freedom to pick and choose what works best. One of the things I love about Oak Meadow is that there are plenty of creative writing opportunities and projects to choose from so you can really tailor to your child’s learning style and interests.

  632. cristina eklund

    i’ve been wanting to try Oak Meadow for some time-now would be my chance! thank you Simple Homeschool-i love your blog, reviews (which i trust), encouragement

  634. Jaime

    This is my first year homeschooling, so I’m looking for some direction. But, as a former classroom teacher, I also have a better grip on what I like and don’t like than other new homeschoolers, so I’d like some room too. I’ll take any resources I can get right now, though!

  638. Joy

    I’m looking ahead, haven’t started formal schooling with my son yet, ut I love everything I’ve seen about Oak Meadow.

  642. Amanda

    I don’t have any experience with curriculum, as this will be our first year homeschooling-but I think I like the idea of having se wiggle room!

  644. Rachel

    This is our first year homeschooling so I’m going with most of it laid out- but not all…

  645. Heather

    We’re homeschooling for the first year. My 6yo will be doing “kindergarten” stuff this year. It would be nice to have a curriculum fully laid out for me in a sequence that makes sense. This curriculum looks like a great choice!

  647. Meredith Williams

    At this point in our homeschooling jouney I LOVE everything laid out. I have been homeschooling for three years now and realized that having everything done for me is a such blessing. I homeschool my four kids (17, 13, 6, 2) and it is difficult to make sure I fit everything in if I don’t have a plan. Having someone else make the lessons is such a time-saver. I can then relax and enjoy teaching my children and spending time with them. However, I love the flexibility that homeschooling brings. Regardless of using a curriculum that lays it all out, I still have the power to be creative, omit or add to the curriculum.

    I did enjoy reading that Oak Meadow has everything all in one book and seems to really hit to the heart of matters. I am one for focusing on the heart first, hands second and then the head. Oak meadow seems to do that. Thanks so much for your giveaway! I would love to win!!
    Meredith Williams’s latest post: david’s 50th birthday gifts

  648. Leah

    I don’t have a preferred way of doing things, since this is our first year. But I know my personality is one that likes organization and having set goals and working toward them (an organized curriculum).

  649. Rachel C

    I am just starting our first year homeschooling this year so I am still not sure what the best method for our family is. I have been ogling the Oak Meadow website for a year now but have not made the commitment to purchase a full curriculum. I love their philosophy and the preschool curriculum would be a wonderful introduction to Oak Meadow!

  653. Alexis

    I like everything layed out, so I don’t have to spend so much time planning.

    I also hit like on Facebook and Simple Homeschool.

  654. Holly

    I have been homeschooling my son for almost two years now and I have found that a flexible curriculum that I can modify to suite our needs works best for most subjects, but for mathematics I like a more structured approach. It help me feel confident enough to teach him complex subjects and if the approach is right then he learns more easily. I still switch things around as needed to suite his learning styles. Oak Meadows has been wonderful for us and I would highly recommend it to other families!

  656. Rachel

    I would like to have things laid out for me. I’m going to start homeschooling soon and am worried about the price so this would really help!

  657. Jane

    Hi,
    We love Oak Meadow and just “liked” them on Facebook. Hope to win the OM Curriculum.
    Jane

  658. Sheryl

    I prefer a curriculum that has everything set out for me. I have five children I’m homeschooling this year (plus two in high school to assist with homework). So I don’t have a lot of time to improvise.

  663. Melissa

    I already ‘liked’ Oak Meadow and Simple Homeschool before but would love to win this curriculum!

  665. Melissa

    I like thorough curriculum, but I have learned that it is my guide ~ not a list that has to have everything checked off.

  666. Crystal Wood

    I have already “liked” Oak Meadow on Facebook and I just “liked” simple homeschool. I have been looking at Oak Meadow Curriculum and reading about it for quite some time now. If I purchase any curriculum in the future it will be Oak Meadow. I am currently homeschooling my 6 year old daughter, Waldorf style, and teaching a Natural Craft Class at the private school she attends 1 day a week.

    For us, an open curriculum is much more ideal. First of all, I would feel much too pressured to move onto the next project or activity with a stricly outlined curriculum. I think one of the most beautiful things about Waldorf education is that it allows our children to learn just how amazing the simple things in nature really are, and without the time to just observe and slow down you can’t truly appreciate the experience, and neither can the child. I also think I’d like a more open curriculum because I have many many natural craft ideas that we simply wouldn’t have time to try in these early years if we were worried about doing exactly what the curriculum states every day. During the holiday season especially, we are crafting a good deal of time, and I don’t do well with feeling behind, not sure if anyone does really. Also, we like to attend field trips at the local homeschool co-op and just have days where we have spontaneous outings for the fun of it. I believe I would feel way to pressured to follow a curriculum that had assignments and projects laid out each day and not truly enjoy, and allow my child to enjoy homeschooling. Thanks for the chance to win such a perfect giveaway.

  668. Carrie May

    I like a curricula that leaves room for improvisation. Not too much though:) I’ve had some curricula that leave me too much room, and I don’t always have time for putting in that much work.

  669. Molly

    I love oak meadow. I like that it has the basics so on slow days or when we are sick we can just do it but at the same time it allows for the flexibility to adjust for age or ability. Add or subtract things.
    Molly’s latest post: So long summer

  672. Sarah Shafer

    I do prefer a thorough curriculum that lays everything out. However, we still try to be flexible in adding to the curriculum when the interest arises.

  673. simone hall

    I like when it has all layed out as there is always ways to add and make it perfect for my family! Love Oak Meadows curriculum! 🙂

  674. Sarah Shafer

    I liked Oak Meadow on Facebook, however I have already liked Simple Homeschool for some time. So I liked your wall post on this giveaway. Thanks!

  680. Nancy Mosley

    I like to have a one that is planned for me but with the flexibility to change if the need arises. Thanks for the chance to win!

  683. Nichi Hirsch Kuechle

    Aha! This is the exact curriculum we have picked out to homeschool our second grader this year.
    We like the idea of using a curriculum that will allow us to improvise with both my husband and I being self employed, and with allowing a steady rhythm of home to influence what we learn.

  684. Kristin

    I think I like some of both. Or rather, even if it does lay it out for you (and I like that), we usually improvise a bit.

  687. Melanie DeWitt

    I like to be able to choose as I go. I want details if needed, but I also want freedom. Some weeks or months I need a very specific lesson plan other times I like more freedom. Oak Meadow is great for this.

  691. Beth

    I am just beginning my homeschooling journey so haven’t yet developed a strong preference. I think that I will prefer a basically structured approach, but one that includes flexibility when inspiration strikes. As a mother of littles, I like the idea of having a lot of the thinking and planning laid out for me. It doesn’t seem like I have a lot of extra room for on the spot creativity and thinking some days!

    Thanks for offering the chance to win this. I’ve looked into Oak Meadow repeatedly and am very interested in their products. 🙂

  692. Jodi

    I like a curriculum that has everything done for me. Then we can follow some parts very closely or go it on our own for a little while and not miss anything. Thank you for the opportunity.

  693. Jessamyn

    We are about to embark on our homeschool journey, so I prefer a curriculum that has everything laid out for me. Maybe next year or the year after I will have the confidence and resources to improvise…so a curriculum that meets both of those needs would be ideal!

  696. robin

    I like to have lots of room to improve on a given curriculum. I like having a framework though.

  698. Julie

    After completing our first year of homeschool with my oldest and using a very eclectic sort of learning, I think I would enjoy a curriculum that would lay it all out. I think it would be nice not to have to think too much about it and then just improvise where I saw fit.

  699. robin

    I just “liked” you on fb! i can’t wait to read all your great ideas!!! I was already a fan of oak meadow

  700. Jelinda P.

    I have tried curriculums where everything is laid out, yet I have learned that a flexible mode fits us best. We use an outline to start, then allow our interests to carry us onward and outward towards new ideas that perhaps the curriculum did not address. I have to say, learning things that were *not* on the curriculum schedule have been some of our most enjoyable moments!

  702. Bethany

    I prefer a curriculum that lays most things out for you, but that doesn’t mean that I follow it exactly! It’s nice to have things planned and organized during those times that you’re too busy to do much creative planning!

  704. Marcie

    I think I should have a curriculum that lays things out for me, but, as of yet, I have been creating my own in order to save money and cater to my daughter’s growth (multiple grade levels through subjects and throughout the year).

  706. morgan

    We’re starting kindergarten with our oldest this year, so I don’t have any experience, really, as of yet. I’m, feeling, though, that I will probably prefer to have some sort of curriculum laid out, but still have lots of wiggle room to tweak and adjust it to our seasons and needs.

  707. Erlinda

    I have no preference since I have only homeschooled for one year. I used a variety of resources last year. I think I want to simplify this year. Oak Meadow was one that really interested me when I first started looking. It would be great to try it out for free for one year.

  709. Becca

    I like a combination of improvising & a “pre-packaged” curriculum; I usually start out with a basic all-in-one and then supplement pretty heavily based on what the kids are really interested in at the time! Thanks, I’ve really been wanting to give this curriculum a try!

  712. kelly s

    WOw, what a great giveaway!
    This will be my first year of HS’ing. I would really love an all inclusive curr, but would supplement on areas that my child struggles with and also topics my child is interested in.

  713. Danielle A.

    I will be starting homeschooling my kindergartener this year and like the idea of a basic curriculum plan that I can modify and expand on as needed!

  715. Amanda

    I like a program that has everything planned, but allows for some flexibility. Oak Meadow is a really wonderful program!

  718. Brooke

    I recently received the Oak Meadow catalog, and it looks right up our alley! Would be so excited to win this one!

  720. Ashlee

    I prefer a curriculum that balances both sides – a nice plan with room to improvise. This is my second year of homeschooling and so we are still figuring things out. I would love a chance to try out a new curriculum!
    Ashlee’s latest post: Confession 7

  726. elizabeth jensen

    i love simple homeschooling and oak meadow. they make my life easier. thank you for being!

  727. Jennifer Waddell

    I have a daughter that is starting 2nd greade this fall and am excited about a chance to win this wonderful curriculum. I really like a structured curriculum that keeps me on track but that also leaves room to explore areas that really interest my children.

  729. Taylor

    Though we are early on in our homeschooling adventure, I think we will favor a less structured curriculum. Growing up unschooled gave me the sense that some structure does a kid good, but the ability to change and embrace spontaneity is a big reason I love our less structured days.

  732. Elizabeth

    I would like to try a full curriculum. Right now we piece together everything and I’m happy with what we do but I’m always concerned about covering everything.

  733. Lisa

    I like something in the middle–some structure, some flexibility. I would love to try Oak Meadow, especially with my kinesthetic/auditory learner. I think the stories would be perfect for her sensory needs.

  734. Chrissy

    As a new to homeschooling Mum, I think for the first year or two I would prefer to have a curriculum that lay’s it all out for me and is simple to follow.

  735. Allyson

    Thank you for the review on Oak Meadow. I personally prefer a thorough curriculum that lays everything out. Then again, I’m just getting started with my first in Kindergarten this year! I will definitely keep Oak Meadow in mind as I get into my journey knowing that everything is in one package. Thanks!

  737. Robyn Groth

    “Do you prefer a thorough curriculum that lays everything out for you or one that gives you a lot of room to improvise?”

    Honestly, I don’t see how these two things are mutually exclusive. No matter how thoroughly laid out a curriculum is, you can always tweak and improvise (and I can think of very few things I do not tweak). I guess if I’m going to pay for a curriculum, I want it to be as thorough as possible. I will still change it as I please and need.

  741. Penny

    I like both – I have used OM in the past (several years ago) and remember that it provided a nice weekly guide, but left lots of space to follow our interests. Very well balanced – now that’s a wonderful thing!

    Thanks for sponsoring this give-away, I would love to use OM again for my eighth grader.

  742. jess

    I you prefer a thorough curriculum that lays everything out- would love to have this one to use!

  743. jess

    I have two little ones (outside of the three in school), so a curriculum that is all laid out is easier for me right now…but I am relaxed enough not to do it all as life happens!

  748. Shannon

    I prefer a curriculum that lays out things for me, though I am very flexible and I always feel free to deviate a bit and then return to the way the curriculum is laid out.

    • Amanda

      I liked Oak Meadow and Simple Homeschool on Facebook!! Great site, great curriculum, and hoping to win!! Thanks!!

  752. Kathy

    What a nice giveaway! I find it helpful to have a little of each — a curriculum that is well-planned and detailed enough that it’s not hard to just pick it up and run with it on a busy day, but that offers differentiation to meet the needs of different learning styles, a flexible schedule so that getting one day off doesn’t throw a monkey wrench into the works, and options and extensions for various activities to make it easy to customize.
    Kathy’s latest post: I finished my Baby Surprise Jackets!

  753. Esther L.

    That’s a hard question! I’m new to homeschooling, so the idea of a completely laid out program is appealing, but I love the idea of being able to improvise and supplement. I guess that’s what makes homeschooling so great. There’s so much freedom in teaching your own children!

  754. Sharyn R

    I like a curriculum that is planned, however, the comfort of “planned” comes with my desire to make sure I succeed. I am in my second year of homeschooling and would love to give Oak Meadow a try.
    Thank you for the opportunity to win!

  757. Mama

    I am starting to explore the homeschooling option and this looks like it would be a great place to start. FIngers crossed!!!

  763. marta suarez

    No. I think we teach our children how we learn and how we connect different things in life. By having room for improvisation, you have room for creative development.

  765. Andrea

    Honestly – I like something that lays it out for me. As much as I like the idea of going off on my own, I prefer to have a detailed, specific curriculum to use as a jumping off point.

  766. Jessica R.

    I love a structured curriculum with the option of having some creative freedom within the lessons. Wonderful company and fingers crossed!

  767. Jonette Vaughan

    I love having it all layed out for me. Much easier for me and helps my confidence that I am following a laid out path. I have liked both Oak Meadow and Simple Homeschool on facebook!

  768. Julie W

    I like a curriculum that’s laid out for me, but still gives me room to improvised (when motivated)!

  769. pia

    nice giveaway! never have used a curriculum yet,a looser structure appeals to me more, though.

  770. Heather Brandt

    I like a little bit of both–I like the option of everything being laid out but I also like have the option of extending their learning if I’d like. Some days as a parent I want it all mapped out & sometimes I just want to go with the wind 🙂

  772. Rachel

    This will be my first year home schooling. I am looking forward to using a complete curriculum (Oak Meadow First Grade). I can’t really answer the question the way it was asked, but I wanted a curriculum that had everything laid out for me. Plus, I know a family who used OM K-12 and I would be pleased if my children grow up like theirs.

  773. Jen

    This will be my first year homeschooling with a set curriculum. It is also the first year I am feeling confident in my decision to homeschool. And guess what we are using….Oak Meadow. At first glance I thought I might need to supplement but after reviewing the years we are doing( kindergarten and grade 6) I decided to trust the curriculum. I think they have a lot to offer the homeschooler and why reinvent the wheel.

  774. Hollister Thomas

    I’ve had the joy of staying at home with our 3, 6, & 9 year olds for their life-learning journey! This is the first year I’m considering a curriculum to spark some inspiration and new ideas, so one that allows us to improvise will work best in our family 🙂 Oak Meadows is at the top of my list for options I’m considering. I’d also love to hear anyone else’s ideas!

  775. Andrea H

    I’m thinking I would like a little bit of both. Enough information for me to know what I need to do, but yet flexible enough to let life happen as well.

  777. Debbie

    I love a fully laid out curriculum, but sometimes, we change it up a bit, and add our own spin on it. Thanks for this chance.

  779. Kimberly F

    I like a curriculum that is laid out for those times that I need it but flexible for the times that I don’t. Our homeschooling needs change with our moods and activities so the needs of the curriculum changes as well.

  781. daniela

    i like it when everything is already planned out for me – but that doesn’t mean that i don’t imrovise from time to time.

  783. JenRay

    Honestly, I am new enough to homeschooling, that I am not sure which I prefer yet. But I think it is going to be having everything planned out for me. Which is NOT what I would have expected. But I am sure I will improvise from time to time. Thanks for the chance to win – I would LOVE to give Oak Meadow a try!

  784. Teresa

    I like either kind of curriculum. I really like the kind where the child can read their own directions as well, so if they can learn without me hovering, they can or if they need additional direction, they can do that as well. As always, I get to check to see if they understood or if I need to explain more clearly if questions were answered incorrectly.

  786. Nicole Mountain

    I have liked both the pages. Thanks for giving away such an invaluable gift. You can never put a price tag on a child’s education, but this is an incredible act of love that you are doing for a child…

  787. Lori Gwilt

    I like stuff layed out for me. I have always put together my own curriculum, but I have my oldest going into “middle school” age next year and am looking at something more defined for her. As far as flexibility, I think most programs allow that. Thanks for the chance to win a curriculum package!

  789. brit

    This is actually a pretty hard question for me. I like having things laid out for me in curriculum and guesstimate when we will be done with the school year, but I also enjoy the freedom of unit studies and we can go and go with a theme like ‘dragons’ or ‘Egypt’. I guess I enjoy a hybrid of both, the security of the laid out curriculums as a guide line and the freedom to toss it if we get ‘off track.

    Hmm…too wishy washy? Maybe but accurate. ;P
    brit’s latest post: Third

  790. Kit

    As I have not homeschooled yet (looking into it), I would like a little of both. Some structure to make sure I am headed in the correct direction but with some flexibility so I can infuse the knowledge that I know.

  792. Jolene in Michigan

    I’m going to be homeschooling for the first times this year – a 5th grader, 1st grader, and a Preschooler, plus a 2 1/2 yr. old- and frankly, I feel I need some organized curriculum to get myfeet wet, THEN maybe later, I’ll feel comfortable enough to improvise. I’d love to win a complete curriculum!

  796. Jen C

    I am very interested in Oak Meadow for many reasons. I loved what you mentioned, about this cirricullum teaching the whole child… Heart, head and hands. That comment actually made MY heart skip a beat! This is the home school experience that I am praying for. I was the “drill servant” homeschooler last year and vow to never be, again! Like anything we live and learn… I, especially, like the nature study and creative learning opportunities presented by Oak Meadow. This seems to be a very natural learning option for the home setting. I would love to present our lessons in a more peaceful manner and feel a sense of presence in each moment. We would be so grateful to do a 180 in homeschooling, because of Oak Meadow Cirricullum.

  797. Christina Erickson

    I like having things laid out for me as much as possible. I am just not very creative, but I love it when I have ideas laid out before me and I can pick and choose what I want to do

  799. Gina

    I like to think that I could follow a curriculum that was laid out for me, but when it comes down to it I love lots of great ideas and a guideline (which OM is amazing for!), but need lots of wiggle room!

  803. melissa

    I like a curriculum that is structured and gives me & my children something to follow. and track our progress. That being said, I think it is important to be flexible and allow for plenty of unstructured time and adjustments to different learning styles.

  805. Chrissy

    I LOVE simple homeschool on facebook. I have also liked Oak Meadow. Thanks for the chance to enter.

  806. Paige

    I just discovered Oak Meadow (and liked them on FB!) recently, and am so pleased to come across this. I would love to win a curriculum. Your blog is wonderful, and your book looks great too. Thanks for sharing so much of your experience!

  807. alawiyyah

    I think I like a bit of both. I think for my own ‘schooled’ mind I like knowing there is a curriculum to fall back onto when needed, but I love being able to be flexible and go with what my child is keen on eg, instead of formal writing from her workbook, she decides to write cards to family and friends – that’s still writing and she’s still learning!

  809. Libby

    I like to have everything all laid out–I’m still too insecure in my own abilities and am terrified that I will screw up without someone holding my hand through it all! But I still like a little freedom to improvise. 🙂

  810. Sally L

    I prefer a thorough curriculum as I feel it makes it easier for me. But I can and will still move things around to change what I think will work better for us.

  812. Sara Y.

    I like a combination. I have one child who is a lesson-a-day kind of kid and one who is a little more dreamy whole concept driven.

  814. Tanja M

    I’ve liked using curriculum that allows us to improvise but also gives me enough structure to follow so that I don’t get lost in all the choices.

  817. Max J.

    I like combination. I’d prefer organization in curriculum than thoroughness, too thorough can be overwhelming. I also like to have space to not only improvise, but to integrate our core beliefs into the matrix.

  820. Ludovica

    Actually I don’t homeschool my children , but I am into a new experiment of teaching them English (we’re Italians). I haven’t found great courses in my native language for children, so I have been discovering that relaying on american homeschooling curricula would be a successful and stimulating alternative for teaching English to my children.
    What I have seen is that, at least initially, having a curriculum that lays everything out for us, could help me to be more secure about my own skills and could comfort me in my “absolute beginner” lack of experience in this compartment.
    In addition, this method would give me the opportunity to grown as homeschooler and appreciate deeply the infinite possibilities to share quality time with my children.

  821. Beth

    I like for it to be fairly laid out. I’m a single Mom, I work full time (nights/weekends) so that I can focus on his schooling during the week. I’m also really new to this, we kind of ended up here because of bullying within his school and as I feel my way through I appreciate the guidance a well laid out program can give.

  824. Hema

    Hi 🙂

    I just came to know about Oak Meadow through Simple Homeschool. Looks like a really great curriculum and i have immediately “like” it on FB! I would really love to win ur curriculum. Your website and books look really wonderful. Thanks for sharing 😀

    I like to have a a detailed curriculam that lays everything out… cos i am a little unsure if i am able to carry it out myself as homeschooling itself is a big leap for me… fully structured and flexibility to improvise would be great. thank you v much 🙂

  829. Sheilla Turner

    Do you prefer a thorough curriculum that lays everything out for you or one that gives you a lot of room to improvise?
    Great question……I like a curriculum that lays everything out for me and my child. I feel if it is laid out for us then we will not miss anything. I also feel that all curriculums have room for improvising as many parents have had to improvise at one time or another. My 2nd grader struggles with reading therefore I have had to do a lot of improvising on her material and also allow her to stay on a particular subject longer then she should because she has found something interesting and wanted to study it further or she found it boring so I have skipped over it just to come back later when I felt she was ready for it.
    Sheilla Turner

  830. Sara Headley

    I’m not sure which I prefer. I am a former 1st grade teacher and find that I enjoyed the planned out year to start; but, I relished the days I would throw my plans out the window and do something totally different. Like the week we spent doing a unit on the scientific process through Jack and Jill. Or learning about light refraction through rainbows on St. Patrick’s Day. Totally unplanned. But, I wouldn’t have thought of them if I hadn’t needed to “change gears” those days…Hmmm.

  832. Alicia

    I like a thorough curriculum, but prefer to feel like I can add and adjust as necessary. I don’t want a lot of seat work, testing, and etc.

  834. Christl

    So far I have put together the background information, resource book list and study outlines for most subjects myself and find that after six years of school I am getting a bit tired. It would be really nice to find a curriculum that would provide a good foundation with room to add a few personal touches.

  835. Mary Beth

    I’ve never used a curriculum before, but I think I would prefer a lot of room to improvise. I’ve wanted to try Oak Meadow – thanks for the chance to try!

  836. Kaisha

    Well, my son is only 18 months, so I am just starting to research home school things, and I haven’t decided.

  837. laura haley

    Winning would be a HUGE help for me. This will be my first year homeschooling and I am ordering Oak Meadow because I love their philosophies and also because I want the security of know I have a complete curriculum. It is expensive, though, and ordering the K, 1, and 2 packages is pretty costly so winning a set would be just perfect!! I am so glad to hear you like Oak Meadow, helps me stop second guessing myself 🙂

  840. Sarah

    I think I like “put together already” more than I realized. I want to be able to tweak, but having some sort of starting point is helpful to me.
    Thanks for the great giveaway!

  841. jen

    I love Oak Meadow because they provide a detailed list of what I should do each week but it is flexible that I can pick and choose what I want to do when. The stories are part of the lessons, the nature allows the kids to be learning while outside…and most important, there is a lot of playing!!!

  843. jess

    I like detailed for those days I need it, though I can feel free to improvise on the easy days.

  845. Rachael

    I like Oak Meadow and Simple Homeschool on Facebook! I would REALLY love this curriculum package. I really think my daughter would benefit from a gentler curriculum and this would be perfect.

  850. Kayleen

    I need something that offers some structure, but with plenty of wiggle room to improvise in the moment if I need to. Too much of a plan leave me feeling dry, but no plan make me crazy!

  851. Kayleen

    I liked Oak Meadow and Simple Home School on Facebook. Your sight has been so helpful to me already, and I’m a pretty new follower 🙂

  852. Sarah Miller-Kramer

    I like a curriculum that allows me some wiggle room. The structure helps me and the kids stay focused, but we do a fair amount of impov in our daily routine.

  853. Sarah Miller-Kramer

    I like Oak Meadow and Simple Homeschool on Facebook! Thanks for the awesome giveaway!!!

  854. Ginny

    I prefer wiggle room in my curriculum. I have 4 children and know first hand that each learns differently. As a result I like to be able to improvise so that I can adapt to their unique learning style and interests so that the material becomes relevant to them.

  855. Susanna

    I definitely prefer a curriculum that lays things out for me, and I learned this the hard way. I still have the freedom to be flexible, but it gives me a good starting point, and an understanding of what would be an appropriate amount of daily/weekly work, as I can easily overwhelm myself and my daughter. I will pay someone else to do the lion’s share of the planning. Every time.

  858. Kara may

    Hi
    I have a 4 year old son and a 9 month old daughter. We’re just starting out on this homeschooling adventure. I would prefer a more rigid curriculum to have a base to work from. If I know what the year should look like in every detail I can then choose the follow it completely or add or subtract to get what works for us. I feel that if the curriculum is too loose to start. Then you are forced to follow everything that’s there and fill in the blanks.

  861. Kelli

    I prefer a thorough curriculum because you can always adjust and change. It is harder for me to be creative and come up with the ideas myself.

  862. Kelli

    Went and made sure Oak Meadow and Simple Homeschool are liked on FB!!! We are beginning a preschool co-op this fall and are just getting into all the different curriculum!!

  863. Jennifer

    We are just starting our adventures in homeschooling. I think that a more structured curriculum would benefit us, especially early on.

  866. Catherine M

    I’m looking into homeschool for the first time for my pre-k aged son so I’m not exactly sure what I like and don’t like yet. But, I was/am the girl who likes to color in between the lines and I think at the beginning, I would need something with good structure. Oak Meadow is one of my top 3 favs in curriculum. 🙂

  868. Elizabeth

    Considering this is our first time (officially) homeschooling, I think a complete curriculum would best serve us for this school year. I full-well expect to change things up a bit, but I would just like to have some measure of staying “on track.”

  869. Joe

    This curriculum has been fantastic for my kids (and wife). I love that it lays everything out but is flexible at the same time. My daughter is starting her 2nd year with Oak Meadow next week!!

  871. amy

    i have always wanted to try oak meadow! i compile my own curriculum, but am interested in trying a preset one. i just have not found the right one.

  873. Kim Smith

    I LOVE how Oak Meadow lays it all out. This makes it easier for my family to include and enjoy various activities as I do not have to spend time planning. It is also great that it all appears the same so my different age group kids feel like they are ‘doing the same thing’. It also allows other people, grandma, dad, etc to jump in and do a project or 2.

  875. Tamara

    I think I’d prefer one that laid everything out, then I’d just pick what I want from it. I’ve looked at the Oak Meadow curriculum a few times, and it looks like we’d enjoy it.
    Tamara’s latest post: Magic in the Everyday

  877. Leslie Howard

    I like a lot of room to improvise because too often curriculums turn into something contrived to just have something to do instead of something fresh and real.

  879. Abby

    I am just starting to explore homeschooling for our 4 year old so I think a complete curriculum would be really helpful and I love what I’ve seen from this company!

  881. Melissa

    Personally, I enjoy learning more about a particular topic or making it my own so-to-speak, but I get frustrated when there is only the skeleton if I am lucky and I am spending hours putting together the curriculum not allowing me the time to add the extra details! So, yes, I am looking for a complete package.

  882. Melissa

    Just checked out both FB sites. Would love to win the curriculum – would have trouble deciding which year for which of my girls!

  883. Dan

    Would love to win this for my daughter. It will be the first year of homeschooling, so we prefer a packaged curriculum. I will be looking into this one , Thanks.

  884. Elizabeth

    I like a curriculum that gives options. For some subjects or at certain times, having it all laid out can be a good thing. At other times or for other kids, it’s good to be able to pick and choose which lessons or activities to focus on, and which to let go. I’ve researched so many different curricula over the past year, and keep coming back to Oak Meadow. It combines thorough academics with creativity and flexibility in a way other comprehensives do not. I hope I win!

  885. Catherine

    I like a balance – lots of suggestions, but room to do what works. Some weeks we do a lot of extras, other weeks we stick to the basics. I think this flexibility is especially important when educating younger children.
    Catherine’s latest post: London: Tuesday

  886. Leilani

    I prefer a thorough curriculum but I want to branch out and put together one when I will be teaching both of my sons.

  887. Elizabeth

    Since I’ve already “liked” both Simple Homeschool and Oak Meadow on Facebook, I went on and commented on both pages. Thanks for being one of my favorite blogs!

  888. Amy Fletcher

    I like a thoroughly laid out curriculum that I can ALSO be flexibly with and do some improvising and supplementing! 😀

  890. Scotti

    I prefer to use curriculum more as inspiration and a guide rather than a hard set plan. I love Oak Meadow and plan to utilize their curriculum in the future. This year my twins are kindergarten age and I am not ready to formally start their studies.

  891. Dorothy

    My eldest is 3 1/2, and even though kindergarten seems ages away, I know now is the time to start thinking through thoughts for schooling. I lean more towards the “unschooling” approach to learning, but my son seems to thrive on structure. The Oak Meadow curriculum seems to be a good balance between the two.

  892. Maryam

    I like a curriculum that has room to improvise.
    Oak Meadow has some wonderful ideas. I’m reading their “Heart of Learning” and enjoying it very much.
    Thanks for the chance to win 🙂

  893. Cindi

    I would love to use a full curriculum but with 3 children I can’t afford it. Thanks for the chance to win!

  894. Leisa

    I just found Oak Meadow last night and I’m hoping to go with their curriculum! I am new to homeschooling, but am looking for a program that has all the info I need, yet allows me to add in more art, music and fun! : ) Cross my fingers! Thanks for the opportunity!

  895. Alisha

    Having homeschooled 3 of 4 kiddos for 7 years, I much prefer having it all laid out for me. I still add in my own touches but am much less stressed when I don’t have to do all the planning. Thanks for the great giveaway!

  897. Patty

    I prefer to have a very set plan with my son who just finished second grade. He has to have an exact schedule. My daughter is more organic and free, so for her I have a general plan and add in things (crafts, etc) that she may be in the mood for. She will be doing pre-K this year.

  900. Allison J.

    I really like to have it all laid out for me just in case I get lazy and don’t have other things planned.

  903. Jade

    I have a hard time creating my own structure, so love it whenever it’s already done for me.

  905. Valerie

    Its great having structure that can be built upon. Oak Meadow looks like a great resource.

  907. tina

    last year was my first year homeschooling & i’m craving a bit more structure this year. i expect this will be freeing for me and i will be able to be creative after that starting point has been established.

  908. Melissa

    I liked simple homeschool on FB. Your emails have been a real blessing and really encourage me. We are going into 2nd grade HS this year : )

  910. nicole

    At this moment, just beginning in the homeschooling adventure, I would like to have a curriculum well laid out for me, because from there I can always improvise.

  914. Beth

    I like to have a structured curriculum that I can use as a jumping off point. Thanks for your helpful posts!

  917. Annie DeCoteau

    To answer your question, when I had just two homeschoolers to teach I really enjoyed doing the lesson plans myself. I could do unit studies and adapt their work to their age level. However, this year I have 4 kids to homeschool: a preschooler, a 1st grader, a 4th grader, and a 7th grader. I am finally going to take the plunge and order Oak Meadow for all of them. It will be expensive for the first couple of years but after that I will certainly get my money’s worth re-using the curriculum. I like that with 4 kids the lesson plans will be done for me and the older kids will be able to help out with the younger kids. I’m looking forward to it!

  918. Annie DeCoteau

    I forgot to mention that I also “liked” Oak Meadow and Simple Homeschool on facebook. Now I’ll cross my fingers.

  919. Shannon

    I like a curriculum that’s laid out for me. I may not follow exactly, but it keeps me on track during the year.

  921. Catherine

    At this stage of the game, I’d like a curriculum laid out for me. Maybe later on, less.
    Thanks!

  922. Jessica

    This will be our first year, so I’m not sure yet. I think I’d like to be able to improvise, but I don’t want to be forced to come up with half the material all the time… so maybe a thorough curriculum that I can depart from when I choose?

  924. Melanie DeWitt

    I’m a single mom with 4 kids. I have used Oak Meadow for Pre K, K, 1st, 2nd and now I can’t afford to buy 3rd grade. I really need this!!! I love the program.