Hi, I am Allie, and I am a curriculum junkie. My husband was kind enough to let me turn our formal dining room into a hoarding storage area/classroom for all of my finds. I have found out the hard way that many publishers have strict return policies as well, thus leaving me with extra material. Therefore, I have fully stocked shelves of reading books, workbooks, teacher's guides, manipulatives, art, and office supplies. I don't ever like to feel limited when lesson planning, so I take on the motto "Always be prepared". Some programs work for some kids, and some don't. And like my mother-in-law says, "You just never know when you might need that."

I love hearing what other families are using/have used/want to use in the future. So I wanted to give you a quick list of what we are using now, and what I like best about it.

Language Arts:
Shurley English- We used this because Metro does, and they suggested getting her used to it. Ady LOVES the jingles to help her remember the various terms. I like it's traditional approach of emphasizing vocabulary and writing.

Math:
Math-U-See- Hands down the best Math curriculum I've seen. It addresses every type of learning style, and I truly believe ANY child can be successful from concept to mastery with this program.

Bible:
Building Christian Character- I love the 5 day layout of Bible Story, puzzles/games, and fictional story to reinforce the virtue of the unit.
"The Awesome Book of Bible Answers for Kids"- Probably my most favorite book we have! Answers all those tough questions you always fear you may not have quite the right answer for (with scripture and references to back it up). Instead of stuttering and babbling and further confusing your child, the author has eloquently written a response that even a small child can comprehend.

Spelling & Phonics:
Abeka- I don't love either of these, but we are trying to get into the habit of Spelling Tests, which she hadn't done in 2nd grade. Ad seems to have missed some simple phonics rules as well. Some lessons she flies through, and some bring tears. I find myself holding my breath when she gets this folder out.

Science:
I go back and forth between Abeka and Sonlight. Sonlight is phenomenal. That alone would be sufficient, but I ordered the Abeka book and never returned it. They over lap in subjects, but the Abeka book is WAY more superficial. It couldn't stand alone. The Sonlight curriculum is left over from the 2nd half of her Kindergarten year. It's still interesting and relevant, and I don't adapt it except for reinforcing the Scientific Method during our experiments.

Social Studies:
I stressed the most about this one. We are using Abeka, and have already flown through almost half of the book. I don't have a plan for what we will do next. She is way more interested in learning domestic issues and geography. We learn a new state everyday and use the Nat Geo Atlas for Kids -- it's awesome, and I highly recommend! We also have a sponsor daughter in Ethiopia through Save the Children, and are learning about her culture.

Handwriting:
Handwriting Without Tears- It brings us some tears, but it's ok. The lessons are far too short. I always add on using basic writing paper. Ady is left handed, and she struggles with neat penmanship. I'm not sure every 2nd grader needs Handwriting curriculum, but she does.
Draw Write Now- Love this! Ady loves to draw. It has a short handwriting lesson, followed by a simple drawing lesson geared towards that topic. We are also using this for an art project.

Reading:
We just finished "The One and Only Ivan". It was incredible, and one of those that will stick with both of us forever.
We just started "The Hatchet" by Gary Paulsen. It's a little heavy for her age, but I'm not really one to shelter. What a great opportunity for discussion, right?
We have been to the library each week, and that girl never stops reading. It's the highlight of every week, and I think she'd go everyday if I'd take her.