Recommending the Science Workshops

Here's a personal recommendation from Karen regarding the upcoming chemistry workshops - and please contact Nathalie very soon if you want to book and haven't done so yet - see here for more details.

From Karen:

I spoke to Nathalie a couple of days ago and, although she has had registrations she has been surprised at the lack of numbers. Perhaps it’s just the time of year that she is looking for us to look ahead into the new year and register now with Christmas being on people’s minds but I thought it might be that that people, who attended last time, may think these workshops were a re-packaging of the experiments that she did last time she was here. Last time we found brilliant and I only heard positive feedback about, from those that attended, BUT these workshop are all new material. For those who have children 11yrs or over this is a great opportunity – she’s a lovely lady and the workshops where well organised and crammed full of experiments (most of which we can’t do at home) and learning! Last time, as I understand it, almost all of the practical from the NZ Science/Chemistry syllabus for years 9,10, &11 were covered. Though it’s not cheap I thought it was well worth it.

National Council of Home Educators

Forwarded by Nicola

NCHENZ is currently looking for some new committee members to help out.

If you’re a member of NCHENZ or would like to become one, see below for more information—I was on the committee for two years and it wasn’t as daunting as it sounds! Stacey is currently on the committee, so if you’d like to know what NCHENZ have been getting up to recently, she might be the person to talk to. Otherwise, go to www.nchenz.org.nz to find out more.

A rallying call from Penny Bilton, NCHENZ Co-ordinator:
Dear Members, We have some opportunities on the committee with members having resigned or soon to finish homeschooling. Meetings are held once a month via SKYPE conference using landlines. Some of the tasks available are;
1. minutes secretary for the meetings
2. someone to coordinate with Tarnya our webmaster re things to be put on the website
3. hosting the meeting - you need fast speed broadband internet with a SKYPE account - the cost will be reimbursed
4. Liaison with and updating contact details of HE support groups throughout the country
5. Publicity and promotion
6. Government liaison/ monitoring offical websites, NZQA, MOE to keep up to date with their activities.
7. Any other contribution you can think of!!

We need more of the enthusiasm that the new members on the committee this year have brought. With all the changes happening in the educational scene affecting homeschoolers we need NCHENZ to be an effective and pro-active,

If you can help please contact me on info@nchenz.org.nz
Many thanks, Penny.

joking corner

Q: How does a homeschooling family change a light bulb?

A: First, mom checks three books on electricity out of the library, then the kids make models of light bulbs, read a biography of Thomas Edison and do a skit based on his life.Then, everyone studies the history of lighting methods, wrapping up with dipping their own candles. Next, everyone takes a trip to the store where they compare types of light bulbs as well as prices and figure out how much change they'll get if they buy two bulbs for $1.99 and pay with a five dollar bill. On the way home, a discussion develops over the history of money and also Abraham Lincoln, as his picture is on the five dollar bill. Finally, after building a homemade ladder out of branches dragged from the woods, the light bulb is installed. And there is light.

~Author Unknown

Homeschooled student in the news

Aimee Wolsey, 14 year old homeschooler from Rotorua, recently placed in the top 0.1% for the Australian Mathematics competition—which she sat while in hospital!
Click here for more:
http://www.rotoruadailypost.co.nz/local/news/hospital-not-enough-to-stop-aimees-success/3931077/

Holiday hikes—and tennis too!

From Ted:

We had a lovely, albeit cold, hike up Mt Cargil yesterday with a very impressive turnout. Anna has a couple of photos she said she would attempt to get to you for the newsletter.
The folks on the hike all expressed an interest in doing more hikes over the summer so I picked some dates (all Wednesdays) and picked some hikes in the area. I was being a bit selfish because these are hikes I want to do but I would love to go with others on hikes of their choice. They are all 3 to 4 hour hikes with some being more strenuous than others. The 10:30am start proved to work well so we will go with that. We plan on going on the hikes even if others aren't available so I don't want anyone to feel obligated. We can meet at the trailhead and hike with any who want to join us. If anyone is interested they should email me and I will keep them on a list then email directions and a description of the hike the week before. All the hikes come from "Day Walks of Dunedin and Coastal Otago" by Bill Wilson and are named as in the book. I've put the corresponding hike # but I have an older edition so the numbers may have changed with the newer editions. Here are the hikes and dates I picked so far:

• December 29th: Hike # 3, Sandfly Bay-Sandymount
• January 12th: Hike #40, Trotters Gorge
• January 26th: Hike #45, Outram-Lee Stream-Taieri River Walk
• February 9th: Hike #50, Taieri Mouth-Millenium Track

Our family is also planning to keep up the Tuesday at 12:30 tennis date throughout the summer. Again, we will be there, unless the weather is poor, so please come if you want to play but don't feel obligated. I will send an email if we are not going to be there for some reason other than weather.
Thanks, Ted

SHEAF holiday activities

From Nicola:

This will be the last regular newsletter for the year, but I’ll post out anything interesting or new that comes up in the holidays. Ted has arranged some hikes and will continue to play tennis on Tuesdays, and if anyone wants to organise anything else between now and February, let me know and I’ll forward it to the group. Until then, merry Christmas and happy holidays!!

Video clip - 14 Days of Homeschool

Maria found this light-hearted homeschoolers’ Christmas carol on Youtube—I’m sure it will sound very familiar to most of us!

Best laid plans and all that...

OK, so I'm a little late with the uploading of the newsletter this week. Sorry folks. Hope your week has also been so enjoyable and fun that you forgot to do stuff too :~)

I'll get on an post up the bits of the newsletter that haven't been overtaken by events. I hope the kayaing went well!

updates late this week :)

Hi all - a newsletter did come through last night from Nicola, but I (Stacey) am away on holiday and today is our big, early, family Christmas day - I'll upload the newslettery bits tomorrow.

Have a lovely day!

Weekend Reading - Living Math website

This is a great website - full of resources and information about 'living math'. Great encouragement for those at the 'natural learning' end of the scale, and a good source of supplementary activites for anyone using a more conventional curriculum.

~ Insisting a child must be taught traditional, scope-and-sequence arithmetic to learn mathematics is like saying one must learn classical notes and scales before one can learn music. You might get there, but you miss out on the inspiration of beautiful music created by the masters along the way. We need not master all the "basics" before being able to experience the appreciation that carries us through the hard work of learning. Think of applying living math principles as developing a "mathematical ear" while working toward the mastery of basic theory. ~

This site is dedicated to sharing resources for learning, exploring and enjoying math in a dynamic and holistic manner, for all ages.

Living Math!

Chemistry workshops for home educators

Nathalie Thomas, a home educating mum from Katikati, who was formerly a high school science teacher, ran some fantastic chemistry workshops earlier this year for intermediate and high school-aged kids, which were really enjoyable. She is planning on coming back next February, but needs a minimum of 16 students per class. At the moment, she almost has enough for one group, so if you think your child would be interested, please let her know as soon as possible so that she can work out bookings.

We advertised these last month, so you can see more information about them here

Cost per workshop is $40 for one student or $75 for two students enrolling together, or $90 for 3 siblings who will work together.

Courses are run by Nathalie Thomas, a fully qualified science teacher (and home educating mum) with a degree in chemistry. If you would like more information or a booking form, please email Nathalie on: info@science-for-home-educators.co.nz

Whare Flat Festival of Music and Dance

From Annette:

Most years our family camps out at Whare Flat over New Year for this event. We always have a fantastic time. There is a huge range of “folk” music (with much that might be considered fringe folk) from New Zealanders and overseas artists. There is non-stop music all day as well as in-strument and dancing workshops and workshops for children. There are opportunities too at blackboard concerts for “amateurs” to perform (take special note you budding ukeleists!) New Years’ Eve there is a barndance.

There is a wonderful safe family atmosphere with other activities such as bush walks and glowworms and a swimming hole. It is somewhat pricey, but the quality of the music can be outstanding, especially in the evening concerts. There is no extra charge for camping, but there is the cheaper option to just attend for a day or one evening con-cert etc. The cost for adults is $130 (or $110 if you register before December 17). School-age children accompanied by an adult are $45 each and preschoolers are free.

Check out www.whareflat.co.nz if you are interested or email enquiries to whareflat@kiwifolk.com.

Homeschooling in the news

Homeschooling is an increasingly popular choice in Rotorua. This article speaks to a few local families about the benefits of HE.
http://www.rotoruadailypost.co.nz/life-style/news/does-home-schooling-work/3932114/

Papanui Beach and Wildlife Tour

Nicola writes:

A huge thank you to David and Sarah McKay for the amazing tour that David took three SHEAF families on this week! The kids had a great time and we’re so grateful for this opportunity! I don’t think I’m exaggerating when I say it really was the chance of a lifetime—I doubt we’ll ever see that many happy, healthy and relaxed wild animals up close again, or such a variety. We took up their offer, made earlier this year, of a guided tour on the McKay family’s private beach, to visit the beautiful wildlife that they protect and nurture there, including sea lions, little blue penguins, yellow-eyed penguins and fur seals.

We were all so impressed and had an absolutely fantastic (and very educational, of course) time! Because this is private land, the animals that live there are protected from the abuse that animals on public land can be exposed to, so don’t seem to have much fear of humans at all. David’s penguins are so relaxed that you can get within a metre or two of them, and they seem to quite happily pose for photos (not to mention breed like rabbits)!

A young little blue penguin, waiting in the nest for mum to bring home some dinner.

A fur seal, having a lovely scratch on its preferred relaxation spot—a big rock.

I know I can speak for the other two families that visited with mine when I say that we HIGHLY recommend this tour, and we can’t thank the McKays enough for their generosity! We did the walking option—there’s a substantial (but manageable) hill to walk up on the return, so choose the driving option if you don’t like hills!

A variable oystercatcher and her extremely vulnerable nest.

If you want to make contact with other families who’d like to go, email me and I’ll do some matchmaking. To read about Sarah and David’s lovely offer again, go here: http://sheafdunedin.blogspot.com/2010/10/papanui-private-beach-wildlife-tour.html

Kayaking

Our kayaking trip will be held at 12:30pm—3:15pm, Wednesday 15 December, at the Anderson’s Bay Inlet/Bayfield Park. If you haven’t booked a kayak yet, email Nicola or phone Tammy. Don’t
forget, the cost is $15 per kayak and lifejacket, so please bring the correct cash on the day.

Mt Cargill Hike—new start time

The Bethunes Gully/Mt Cargill hike on 8 December will start at 10:30am this Wednesday. If you’re interested, email Ted to let him know you’re coming along.

Weekend Reading - Back to Basics: Keeping School Simple

Another of those timely reminders; why is it we always creep back to trying to cram EVERYTHING in?

Back to basics: Keeping School Simple
by Jamie of Simple Homeschool

Pukekura/Taiaroa Head (Albatross Colony) update

Thanks very much to Stacey for passing on this update from the head DoC ranger:

Kia ora all

Toroa/albatross
Today is the opening of the observatory to visitors for the 2010/11 breeding season. 30 eggs have been laid this year including seven by seven 'first-time breeding' pairs. Ordinarily we will get 1-3 new pairs each season, so seven is a big bonus!

Most eggs are fertile, (determined by candling-see photo) we had one egg that was broken the day it was laid. The 1 cm hole in it was patched with tape and glued to the shell (after a good cleaning of the area with antiseptic).

Candling of this egg at 7 days did show the embryo survived and the expected growth was seen at two weeks. Unfortunately at three weeks some microbial infection had entered the hole in the shell so the embryo died.

This pair is currently incubating one of the new young pairs’ egg, from a nest where the male is yet to show up for his first incubation stint and we are concerned the young female may desert.
96 birds have been seen so far this season which includes a few of last years breeding birds that sometimes visit the headland for the month or so after their chick fledged.

This photo shows a bird in September 2010 at its nest site (its chick had flown a few days before) and the tatty look of its feathers is probably a result of a loss of body condition from foraging for food for its chick in the 8 months prior. That breeder has now gone to sea and expected back in September 2011 and its feathers and body condition will have vastly improved.

At the end of the 2009/10 season there was an opportunity for the Otago Peninsula Trust albatross guides as well as members from the Korako-Karetai Trust and from the local Runanga to visit the nature reserve to see other areas of the headland and catch a glimpse of some of the chicks from that season before they departed.

Other species:
Stewart Island shags nesting below the observatory have large chicks now and their population is around 350 pairs.

Spotted shags abandoned chicks half way through their breeding season, something that occurs with this species about every 5 years or so and generally is an early indication that other species found on the peninsula might not have a good breeding year either (abandonment is most likely due to poor food years with food availability naturally fluctuating over time).

The red-billed gulls have timed their breeding perfectly. During our winter there can be less than 20 gulls found here, but several hundred turned up at the same time as the arrival and abundance of a type of krill in waters nearby. Soon after the gulls began nest building and egg laying. Their chicks are now hatching at a time when a different food source is now available to gulls (see photo below: Munida - the red patches in the water). Munida hasn’t been seen within the harbour in such large swarms for many years.
During the annual population counts of seabirds I came across a pounamu/greenstone tool that a shearwater had dug up and flicked out onto the surface. Possibly a few centuries old, this unusual find in now back in the hands of local iwi.

Other work:
Port Otago have done a fantastic job of repainting the signal station (located on the top of the headland) and painted it in colours that help this building blend into the landscape.
Cheers
Lyndon

Careers Service

Selina-Jane of CHEF has recently been in contact with Tess Livingstone of the Careers Service (a free Government service), and they will be arranging an evening talk early next year, which SHEAF members will also be welcome to attend. The following was passed on to us from Selina-Jane:

Parents key influence on their children’s career development
By Tess Livingstone , Practice Leader, Career Services

Guiding the career development of their children is a key concern of many parents. Research consistently shows parents have the most significant influence on a range of career constructs including: career interests, work values and expectations, career self efficacy and career choice.
While there are some key milestones where decisions and choices need to be made (i.e. subject choices; tertiary pathway planning; transition to work etc); career development is an ongoing process from early childhood. The role models and settings children are exposed to; the attitudes toward work and learning; the skills and occupations that are valued in the family home are all shaping the career trajectory of your child.
Supporting children to be able to identify their own skills, abilities, values and interests and make sense of the opportunities in the world of work and training is an exciting and challenging task.
Career Services is the Government career information and advisory service. Our mission is to help all New Zealanders make informed work in life decisions on the basis of quality, accurate and objective information and advice.

We have a comprehensive website (www.careers.govt.nz) with information on occupations, industries, education and training, scholarships, qualifications and job search. We have a dedicated section for parents looking for information to help their young people.

To receive a regular newsletter with information and tools to help you build the career resilience of your child – click on the link below and subscribe to receive our Career Tips newsletter for parents. http://www2.careers.govt.nz/sign_up_career_tips.html

For individual assistance and guidance you and/or your child can call our adviceline on 0800 222733 to talk to a career advisor; or chat online using the webchat option on the website.

To organise a presentation on our services and resources and to learn more about the career development stages of children/adolescents and the role of parents contact Tess Livingstone, Practice Leader Career Services Southern ph 474 2664, email tess.livingstone@careers.govt.nz

Homeschooled student in the news

Stacey came across this recent article about 16 year old Christchurch homeschooler Reuben Posthuma , who just won a Bright Sparks Award for his invention, the Driver Minder.

Click here for more: http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/education/4366879/Gadget-checks-driver-safety

Mapoutahi Pa trip

We had a fantastic trip out to Mapoutahi Pa and the beach at Purakaunui Bay last week! It was a beautiful day and there were so many aspects for the kids to investigate - strange to think of the awful warfare that had happened in that exact spot. Here are some photos of our much less gory highlights!

New Zealand Playgrounds

Our very own Linda has created a cool site to describe and review playgrounds at http://www.playgrounds.org.nz/ so go and check it out. Her playgrounds of the week are listed under the News section on the right hand side, and she includes photos, links to Google maps, as well as highlights and lowlights of each playground.

A great reference, and I think Linda would love any input to build on this —your own photos, reviews, experiences etc.

Mt Cargill Hike

The Bethunes Gully/Mt Cargill hike on 8 December may start earlier than 12:30 as first mentioned, depending on what best suits those going. If you’re interested, make sure you email Ted so that he can let you know of any changes.

7th Annual Not-School Photo

Don’t forget our annual SHEAF photo this week, at 12:30pm, Wednesday 1 December. Bring lunch and we’ll meet at the playground in the Botanic Gardens, or if the weather is wet, perhaps on the bandstand. The forecast is cloudy, so fingers crossed!

Weekend Reading - Did you order a sub?

And not a 'subway sandwich', as I thought when I first saw this post title - a 'substitution'. In other words - would you like to tag out of this lifestyle for a while? This article deals specifically with the pressures experienced by people in the 'sandwich generation'.

When homeschool moms are called upon to care for aging parents, it definitely puts a squeeze on time and energy. It can leave many moms wishing for a sub.

We teach our children; we care for our homes, and we handle the many interruptions that come into our lives. The reality is that as homeschool parents we can’t call a sub.

We can, however, let go of the guilt and see our roles and lives differently.

And yeah, they do repeatedly talk about 'Moms' as if it's only women who feel this pressure. This is a helpful article for Dads too.

Did you order a sub?
by Rhodema for Heart of the Matter Online

Science Corner

Robert Krampf's Happy Scientist website is a treasure-trove of science videos, photos and experiments you can do at home.

Go have a look!

http://thehappyscientist.com/

2011 New Zealand Homeschool Diary

From Claire:
I just got an email from the broad room about the 2011 diary. It is $37 for the A5, $45 for the A4 or $20 for the pdf version. I think it cost me about $20 last year to have mine printed and bound at warehouse stationary (A4 black and white with a colour cover) so not much saving really doing it that way. It is expensive when you can get a diary for a few bucks at the warehouse but I found it a really good place to record what we do and to plan what I wanted to do (including my dinner!) and she has added a few more things I wanted this year like a page to record books you are meaning to get out of the library and another for websites you want to check out. So much more than a diary, and now my permanent record of our year. http://www.thebroadroom.co.nz/new-zealand-homeschool-diary.php
No she isn't giving me commission I just really liked it (-:

Kayak Trip

A reminder to please let Nicola know if you are interested in hiring kayaks for three hours on Wednesday 15 December.

The cost is $15 per kayak (which includes a life jacket).

Mt Cargill Hike

Ted is organising a hike up Mt Cargill along the Bethunes Gully route, for Wednesday 8 December.

Meet at 12:30pm at the Bethunes Gully carpark - the whole thing, including a break at the top should take about 4 hours. Email Ted if you’d like to come so that he can let you know if there are any changes.

7th Annual Not-School Photo

The annual SHEAF photo will go ahead as mentioned last week, at 12:30pm, Wednesday 1 December. We’ll meet at the playground in the Botanic Gardens, or if the weather is wet, perhaps on the bandstand. Hope you can all make it!

Mapoutahi Pa Walk

This week our Wednesday activity will be a trip to Mapoutahi Pa (thanks to Tammy for the idea!).
Meet 12.30 at the carpark at the end of the Osborne Rd

Detailed info about the walk and site (including directions) can be found here
Apparently dogs are welcome on a leash! (according to this DoC newsletter - see p.4)
Map can be found here

The Department of Conservation has prepared the following Environmental Education Resource Kit for student groups visiting Maori pa sites on the Otago coast.
Although Mapoutahi is not one of the three trips mentioned in the resource kit, some of the activity suggestions might appeal...
http://www.doc.govt.nz/upload/documents/getting-involved/students-and-teachers/field-trips-by-region/002-the-otago-coast.pdf

Weekend Reading - 4 tips for talking to relatives

This blog post comes at the start of the American holiday season as they gear up for Thanksgiving. Here in NZ we've got a few more weeks up our sleeves before we face those friends and relatives we haven't seen for a while, and who might have a few questions about our educational choices...

4 tips for talking about homeschooling this holiday season

Have a read through the comments, too (scroll down the page beyond the end of the article) - there are some gem suggestions there:

...So I just smile politely now and say, “Homeschooling works very well for our family … please pass the broccoli.”

Chemistry workshops for home educators

From Science for Home Educators:

We are running two chemistry workshops for home educating families at Otago University on 16 and 17 February 2011. Each workshop runs for three hours. The focus is on practical work and using equipment and chemicals in the laboratory.

Cost per workshop is $40 for one student or $75 for two students enrolling together.

1. Forensics workshop

Students will practice being a forensic scientist by examining powders and using chemical tests to identify them.
Suitable for children 11-17 years (note that a parent needs to attend with their child if the child is under 14 years of age).

2. Year 11 Chemistry Workshop

We will look at precipitation reactions, identifying unknown ions and rates of reaction. These practical chemistry experiments support NCEA level 1 science of the New Zealand curriculum. Some pre-study of chemistry theory is required.
Suitable for children 14-17 years.

Courses are run by Nathalie Thomas, a fully qualified science teacher (and home educating mum) with a degree in chemistry.

If you would like more information or a booking form, please email Nathalie on: info@science-for-home-educators.co.nz.

Best regards,
Nathalie Thomas, MSc, DipT
Science for Home Educators
PO Box 179
Katikati 3166
Bay of Plenty
Ph (07) 5490383
www.science-for-home-educators.co.nz

RedMelon Promotion

See RedMelon's Weekly Specials, Discounted Products & End of Lines. For BONUS discounts, register with RedMelon and, once you've received your password, use it to log on and access these additional discounts** and many others:

* Products change from time to time. Only available while allocated stocks last.
** Click on individual products to reveal the Bonus prices. (Pages with multiple products listed only show the normal discounted prices.)

IN ADDITION: Everyone who registers their details and buys the Weekly Special Peg 'n Thread boxed set will receive an additional pack of 100 pegs (10 different colours) for more creative enjoyment with friends. Total value: $43.00 ... You pay only $27.00 ... Save $16.00
Many more discounted products and Bonus Price offers will be listed over the next 6 weeks until Christmas. Register to receive a weekly update email.

Most Lynley Dodd hard cover books - RedMelon price $17.50(RRP $28.00)- RedMelon BONUS price $16.50
Hang Tough Swing Rings**- RedMelon price $22.50 - RedMelon BONUS price $17.50
Disney Sing-Along books + CD- RedMelon price $13.50(RRP $15.50)- RedMelon BONUS price $12.50
Seaside set- RedMelon price $19.00 RedMelon BONUS price $15.30
Mind Twisters- RedMelon price $23.50- RedMelon BONUS price $18.80

Kind Regards,
Sue

RedMelon Educational Resources www.redmelon.co.nz
09 - 962 6961 / 021 2355 272
Visit us on Tues-Thurs (10am - 4.30pm) at Unit T-6 Rosedale Rd, Mairangi Bay North Shore, Auckland

Homeschooling: An International Perspective

From Barbara Smith at http://www.hef.org.nz

American homeschoolers enjoy a freedom that many around the world only dream about. If you'd like to know what homeschoolers in other parts of the world are facing, or if you've ever wondered whether you could impact international homeschoolers, keep reading! HSLDA is excited to present its first-ever international e-vent.
HSLDA Director of International Affairs Mike Donnelly will lead a panel discussion on interna-tional homeschooling. Join him as he chats with an impressive array of international homeschool leaders. His panel will include Dave Tucker from El Hogar Educador in Mexico; Gabriel Curcubet, president of the Romanian Home Schooling Association; Leendert van Oostrum, president of the Pestalozzi Trust Legal Defence Fund in South Africa; and Uwe Romeike, a German homeschool father whose family is fighting for political asylum in the United States.

Listen to it here or listen to the archives for up to 30 days here: http://hef.org.nz/2010/hslda-e-lert-service-homeschooling-an-international-perspective/

Blessings,
Barbara

Kayak Trip

From Tammy
Is anyone interested in hiring kayaks for 3 hours on Wednesday 15 December? We’ll meet at the Andy Bay Inlet beside Bayfield Park which seems like a relatively safe place for beginners. There are 20 kayaks available and the cost would be $15 per kayak (this includes a life jacket).
Could you please e-mail Nicola as soon as possible to book and if there is enough interest I shall go ahead and arrange it.
Thanks,
Tammy :-)

Oamaru Victorian Heritage Celebrations

This Thursday to Sunday is Oamaru’s annual celebration, with all kinds of family fun and educational activities.
See here for more info: http://www.historicoamaru.co.nz/heritagecelebrations.html

7th Annual Not-School Photo

It’s that time of the year again! We've tentatively chosen 12:30pm, Wednesday 1 December at the Botanic Gardens for our setting—will confirm this next week.

End Of Year/Christmas Dinner

For those who have booked, our end of year dinner has been confirmed at 6pm on Wed 15th December at Paasha (N.B. not 6.30pm as earlier mentioned).

Ginger Beer Recipe

With the onset of the hot weather, here’s a cool science experiment for the kids.

In a large preserving jar add:
1 dessert spoon sugar 1 dessert spoon ground ginger Squeeze of lemon juice 2 cups water
This will be your plant…put on the lid and store it in a cool dark place.
The next day, add 1 dessert spoon of ginger.
On the following day, add 1 dessert spoon of sugar – continue to alternate these ingredi-ents for the rest of the week, till you end up adding ginger on the 7th day.
Now, later on the same day, you’re ready to bottle.
In a large pot, or preserving pan, add 2 cups of sugar and 4 cups of hot water.
Stir till all the sugar is dissolved. Add the juice of 2 lemons. Gently strain in the liquid off your plant. Then add 12 cups of cold water.
Mix well and filter through a fine tea strainer into bottles…makes about a dozen 340ml bottles.
Halve the sediment left in your plant jar, add 2 cups of cold water, 1 dessert spoon of sugar, 1 dessert spoon of ginger, a squeeze of lemon and continue as before for another week…and so on…
Keep your bottled ginger beer for a week or 2 before you drink it, so it has a little time to ferment.

From the Keepin it Kiwi blog

Tirohanga Camp - feedback :)

Thanks very much to Stacey for organising this camp, a fan-tastic time was had by all! Even as we were melting in the hot sun, we still managed to cram in loads of activities and fun!

"I just wanted to say how much I enjoyed the camp. It has cured me now of my dislike of camps!! ...What I particularly liked was the way there were activities planned but in a flexible manner and nothing was compulsory (apart from the cleaning of course!!)."

"Well, that was wonderful!! The campfire, confidence course, walking in the dark, the glow worms, board games, and a late night for a bunch of extremely excited kids playing hide and seek in the dark. The food was mainly home made , which is a treat. Good location too. My kids made new friends, I made new friends and met old friends. The organization was perfect, there was a lot of art work done and new skills learnt. The weather was all for us, and I did enough sweating for the year by walking up that steep hill in the heat...Just sign us up for the next one Stacey"

"We really enjoyed ourselves! Can't wait for the next one!!"

Life Education Trust timetable

MOBILE CLASSROOM TIMETABLE FOR THE HOMESCHOOLERS GROUP @ CALTON HILL SCHOOL
Educator: Jacki Allison
Contact Annemieke to book
There are still spaces available in both groups. The cost is $3.50 per child, please bring the correct change if possible.
Wednesday 17th November
9.10 – 10
Juniors 5 – 8 year olds
Harold’s Picnic/Food for Energy/Space Invaders
10.10 – 11
Juniors 5 – 8 year olds
Harold’s Picnic/Food for Energy/Space Invaders
11.20 – 12.20
Seniors 9 – 13 year olds
Body Journey/Warrant of Fitness
12.40 – 1.40
Seniors 9 – 13 year olds
Body Journey/Warrant of Fitness

Zone athletic sports query

From Maria:
Do you know anything about homeschooled children competing in the Zone athletic sports which will be held soon? Who do I contact about potentially competing? I have at least one, if not two, children who may like to be involved. Are there any other boys (particularly) out there who may be interested in forming a 4x100m relay team (Year 5 & 6)?
Please contact Maria if you can help. (Contact someone with a newsletter for Maria's contact details)

Nappy Liners Anyone?

Could anyone use a box of disposable nappy liners (the kind you use with cloth nappies)? If so, please let Nicola know as she has a box that is looking for a good home!

Weetbix Tryathlon

Early bird registration open now - Dunedin event is on 27 February, at Mosgiel Memorial Park. Open to 7 - 15 year olds
http://tryathlon.weetbix.co.nz/

End Of Year/Christmas Dinner

Our end of year dinner will be at Paasha: http://www.menumania.co.nz/restaurants/paasha -
Nicola will be making a booking so let her know if you want to come by Monday.

Weekend reading - 5 dangerous things you should let your kids do

Gever Tulley, founder of the Tinkering School, talks about our drive to overprotect our children — and spells out 5 dangerous things you should let your kids do. Allowing kids the freedom to explore, he says, will make them stronger and smarter and actually safer.

Customs and Charges on homeschooling material

One of our SHEAFies got stuck recently paying a huge GST bill when ordering a curriculum package from overseas. (My husband has also had this happen once when buying too much gaming stuff in one hit - so it's not just curricular purchasing you need to be careful of!)

You don't find out you've got a problem until Customs rings you up and says "Pay us lots of money or we won't release your goods" - so fore-warned is fore-armed!

Selina-Jane was able to offer this explanation and hint:

There was a query today via the SHEAF group to ask about GST charges on curriculum items purchased from overseas. I am lucky enough to have a brother-in-law who works for customs, so have asked him to clarify things for me.

A couple of years ago when I asked him about this he told me:

The GST is applicable if you have bought over approx $400 NZD. Take into consideration the cost of freight also as that has gst on it also.

This meant that as long as your order (including postage) totalled less than approx $400.00(NZ) you would not need to pay GST on it.

After the query came through I asked him to clarify it a bit further for me, and this was his response:

The costs have changed due to GST going up and a few items such as certain types of clothing attract a few extra charges but the de minimus is set at $60. So if you order something and the total of duty and gst is over $60 then you will be liable to pay.
So this still remains around the $400 mark for 99% of all imports.
It is based on the tariff rates and the GST rate.
The de minimus was recently changed from $50 to $60. This was to cover the raise in gst to 15% and keep the $400 mark the same. So situation is still normal in regards to you importing your educational material.
If you are ever unsure about anything Customs related call 0800 4 CUSTOMS which is our call centre. They will give you up to date information and you will get the correct information.

A handy hint that was passed onto me was that lot of people order their stuff in 2 lots, making sure both lots are under $400 in order to avoid the GST - that is what we did.

Hope this helps!
Blessings, Selina-Jane

Otago Choice

The University of Otago has developed an online questionnaire that helps potential students find out what's available at Otago, and what they might like to study. Have a look at: http://otagochoice.1000minds.com/

End of year/ Christmas Dinner - suggested venue

Paasha has been suggested for our end of year dinner http://www.menumania.co.nz/restaurants/paasha - any other ideas? If not, I think we should go with Paasha - their menu looks great!

Tentative date is Dec 15th

Intriguing Dunedin Street Walk - 3 Nov

It must be time for another Intriguing Dunedin Street Walk. We're now up to Walk 2 in the third book (that's the green one). This walk meets outside of 34 Alva St (near the top end of High St), and is supposed to take just over an hour - so that's probably about 2 hours in SHEAF time. It will definitely be a bit hilly, but should probably be OK for pushers as well as there doesn't seem to be too much 'off-roading'.

Weekend Reading - quotable quotes

Looking for something pithy to tack onto your signature? Need to find just the right way to say what you want to say? Or do you just want to immerse yourself in thousands of reasons why home education is great? Head on over to

Homeschool Quotes

For those of you with Facebook, they can also be found there as 1,000,0001 Homeschool Quotes

Diary Dates - new system

If you look at the top of the page, you'll see a new link saying "Diary Dates - SHEAF's calendar!" This is our new system for keeping track of events etc.

We've got our events entered into a Google Calendar - go have a look!

Excerpts from CHEF newsletter

Some snippets from Dunedin's Christian Home Educator's Fellowship newsletter. Contact Selina-Jane for more information or to receive their newsletter directly.

Cafe night:
We don't have enough confirmed numbers for Ralph to open Feast for us, so I have booked us into an alternative venue. We will meet Thursday night (28th) at 7:30 at Cafe Rue, on Moray Place....they have a tempting dessert menu including chocolate brownie, lemon meringue pie and creme brulee! Sounds very good!

Next Park Date:
Remember that our next day get-together is this coming Tuesday (the 26th) not our usual Friday (so as not to be too close to the night gathering) at Woodhaugh Park, Leith Valley, beside the paddling pool. We will be meeting at 12.00, so bring along your lunch, your togs (children), some old bread to feed the ducks, and some balls/games to play on the grassed area if you are keen!.

Rain venue is my place - check your emails in the morning if in doubt as I will confirm venues then.

Blessings on you and your family, Selina-Jane

Careers Service

Here's some more information about the Career Services link with the Dunedin City Library, which was advertised last week.

Career Services - providing career information and advice to young people at the Dunedin City Library Teen Space

Tena Koutou Katoa

Career Services will be available in the Teen Space of the Dunedin City Library on Tuesday 19th and 26th October from 3.30-5.00pm. A career consultant will be available to talk to young people about their career plans, to answer their questions and to introduce them to the Career Services website. Information about these events is attached (in your email newsletter)

Noho ora mai
Pam


Pam Joan
Career Consultant
Career Services

Level 7, Evan Parry House, 43 Princess Street
PO Box 859, Dunedin, New Zealand
P:03 474 2664 F:03 477 5300


Freephone: 0800 222 733 or Visit: www.careers.govt.nz

Career Services logo and website link

MUKA youth prints

Dear young friends and parents,

Muka warmly invites you to the upcoming annual youth print shows:

INVERCARGILL fri 5 november 10-4.30pm Southland Museum and Art Gallery

GORE sat 6 november 12-6pm Eastern Southland Gallery

DUNEDIN sun 7 november 12-6pm School of art Otago Polytech 19 Riego st

OAMARU tue 9 november 2-6pm The Opera House ODT Inkbox 90 Thames st

ASHBURTON wed 10 november 12-6pm Ashburton Art Gallery

Print Price is $65 and the Muka standard frame price is also $65

We hope to see you at the youth print exhibition,

the MUKA team.

Magda Van Gils
Co-director
ph pr: +64 9 376 5323

muka gallery . courtyard 68 ponsonby rd . ponsonby . auckland 1011 . new zealand . po box 47 765 ponsonby p +64 9 360 4461 www.muka.co.nz

NZQA review of University Entrance qualifications

From NCHENZ:
Dear NZ home educators,

The New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) is currently undertaking a review of University Entrance requirements. This will affect you if anyone in your family is intending to undertake university study in the future. The consultation process began on Monday of this week and will close on December 6th of this year (2010). NZQA intends to finalise its decision by the end of 2010 so that students going into year 11 in 2011 can make the correct high school study choices now, so they can enter University in 2014 (the year that these changes are to be implemented).

NCHENZ strongly recommends that all home educators look at this consultation package and consider making a submission. This will possibly be the only chance we have to participate in this decision.

See the NZQA site for more information and to participate in this consultation.
http://www.nzqa.govt.nz/about-us/consultations-and-reviews/proposed-changes-to-the-university-entrance-ue-requirement/

At this stage it appears that the NZQA review is confined to the NCEA University Entrance requirements. Individual Universities each have their own additional and alternative criteria, including International Baccalaureate, Cambridge exams, Special Entry, Discretionary Entrance etc. As far as we can ascertain, the NZQA review does not touch on these entrance paths to University, but is focused on the 'National Certificate of Educational Achievement' (NCEA). It should also be noted that some Universities have already restricted their entry criteria, such that NCEA University Entrance is not necessarily sufficient for automatic entrance.

Once you have given your feedback, please contact us at NCHENZ and let us know your thinking on the matter - if it becomes apparent that most of us are thinking the same things then we will prepare a submission as an organisation. We will need to make a decision on this mid-November to give us time to prepare a submission and consult with our members.

Regards
Stacey Wilson
on behalf of NCHENZ Committee

Children's Christmas Choir

Kate is organising a non-denominational Christmas function at her church (on either 17 or 18 December), and as part of that she'd like to organise a children's choir, who could also possibly perform at some old people's homes. Amana School has offered the use of their hall for practises, so if your children are interested, call Kate for more information.

Papanui Private Beach / Wildlife Tour

Sarah and David M have made an extremely generous offer here! It will probably be easiest if people can organise their own groups of up to 4 (if they want to be driven to the beach) or up to 10 to go by foot, and then contact Sarah and David to make a booking once they've got a group together. Read on for more details from Sarah:

I would like to reoffer for people to make contact with David about a trip to our private beach to view wildlife such as yellow eyed and little blue penguins, seals and sea lions. Usually his charge for private tours is $86 per head, but he would do this for the members of SHEAF for the much more modest price of a native tree per head. Cabbage trees, kowhai, ngaios, etc... anything suitable for this area, very harsh coastal environment. These plants need to be moderate sized (about 1 to 2 feet means a plant is likely to have a good chance of transferring well) and in good condition as they will be placed in an area of new reforestation near the beach, aimed at encouraging female sea lions to breed here. Groups of up to 4 can be taken by 4WD vehicle close to the beach, there will still be walking and a reasonable level of fitness teamed with suitable footwear is great! Groups up to 10 could be guided by foot. Tours would take 1 1/2 to 3 hours depending on the day and level of interest.

http://blogs.smh.com.au/trampaboutnz/archives//013041.html

The above link should take anyone interested to an article/blogsite by Bruce Elder of Sydney Morning Herald for an inkling of what is on offer. Individuals should contact David directly on our email or by phone and he will endeavour to accommodate everyone over the next couple of months. Obviously this is a working farm and there are seasonal factors and sometimes urgent work comes up at short notice but if dates have to be changed people will be given at least a day's notice. We live at Cape Saunders so it is a bit of a drive, but people can take the oppurtunity to link in with a trip to the Aquarium or Glenfalloch and make a nice outing.
I also highly recommend the sandflats at Harwood for sand sculpture if anyone wants to organise that... Tammy has probably seen what happened when the local arts group did that. Much fun and at different times of year they will last days or weeks.

Sarah M (See your email newsletter or phone list for contact details)

End of year/ Christmas Dinner

Due to popular demand, it's time to organise another dinner timed for just after everyone receives their homeschooling allowances - so no excuses :-)

Let Nicola know if 6pm Wednesday 15 December suits you, and any suggestions of where to go will be welcomed!

Bush Walk

12:30pm, Wednesday 27 October
Meet at the gravel carpark at the very end of Tanner Rd, Glenleith (just past where it meets with Wakari Rd).

Weekend Reading - The 'S' Word

Yes indeed - an article on the 'S' word. If you're new to this whole home educating gig then this is one word that you'll be hearing a lot of as you break the news to your nearest and dearest.

"Homeschooling?!" they'll gasp, barely concealing (if you're lucky) their horror - "but what about socialisation???"

These discussions get really, really old and somewhat tiring after a while, to the point where I usually avoid reading about 'the socialisation issue' now. But this is a very nice, fresh, light article which deals honestly and simply with the supposed issue (which is really the biggest non-issue around).

Socialisation: The "S" Word, by Helena Fox Dunan

hat-tip to the Rockpool!

SHEAF Diary Dates - 18 Oct 2010

Term 4 activities

We had some great suggestions for our Wednesday activities this term, including a few short hikes, the Flower Power workshop at the Botanic Gardens and possibly even some canoeing, along with our usual park meet-ups and Intriguing Dunedin Street Walks. We'll keep you posted once all the dates have been worked out.

Nicola has also tentatively scheduled another Big Peoples' Night Out for Tuesday 23 November. Things seem to get pretty busy at the end of the year, so that will probably be our last one for 2010, unless anyone is desperate for more :-) If you plan on coming, please let her know if you'd like to make this an end-of-year dinner somewhere (and any suggestions), or if we should just stick to Nova. Also, let her know if this date doesn't work for you, and we can try to arrange something that suits all those interested.


every Monday during term time, 11:00 - 12:00pm: Swimsation lessons; 12:00pm on: lunch and socialising. If you are interested in joining the lessons, contact Swimsation at Moana Pool to book. Otherwise, just turn up!

every Tuesday, 12:30 - 2:00pm approx: tennis at Logan Park tennis courts. Contact Ted for more information.

12:30pm, Wednesday 20 October: Meet up at Bayfield Park/Andersons Bay inlet, by the new playground.

7:30pm, Thursday 21 October: Big People's Night Out, Nova Cafe.

1:00pm, Wednesday 10 November: First Aid workshop for intermediate aged kids. Contact Kathrin to book

Friday 12 - Saturday 13 November: Tirohanga Camp. Contact Stacey to book

9:00am - 11:00am / 11:20am - 1:40pm Wednesday 17 November: Life Education Trust visit, Calton Hill School. Contact Annemieke to book

7:30pm, Tuesday 23 November: to be confirmed Big People's Night Out or end-of-year dinner??

Remember, if it's raining, our outdoor meet-ups or walks will usually be cancelled/postponed

NCHENZ Newsletter

****National Council of Home Educators NZ - Quarterly Newsletter****

4th Quarter, 2010

Welcome to our new newsletter. The National Council of Home Educators (NCHENZ) exists to encourage, promote, inform and advance the cause of home education in New Zealand at a national level. By creating this newsletter we hope to improve our communication with our members and the wider home educating community in New Zealand. Be informed! Be encouraged!

***Items in this newsletter - see below for details***
- Has there been a rise in 'declined' exemption applications? - we give feedback from talks with the MoE and ERO
- Do you know someone homeschooling while receiving a benefit? Recent changes to work requirements may affect them, beginning from the end of the 2010 school year
- Should NCHENZ be a charity? - have your say
- How do I join NCHENZ?

***Declined Applications***

Earlier this year it was brought to our attention that there has been an apparent increase in declined applications for exemption, especially in the Auckland region. NCHENZ, working together with Auckland Home Educators, met with ERO in June 2010. AHE has also held meetings with the MoE. As an outcome of those meetings, and from comparing notes with AHE, we can advise the following:

Declined applications can always be restarted from scratch. There is no limit on the number of times you can apply. However, please do read the application form thoroughly and carefully when applying. If you are unclear about how to fill it out, seek help. In most cases, your local support group will have members who have recently received an exemption certificate and who may be happy to help. Otherwise, NCHENZ, the Home Education Foundation or AHE (if you are in the larger Auckland area) may be able to assist.

Although there has been no official change of policy about the granting of Exemptions from Enrolment in School, there has been a change in interpretation of that policy by the Ministry of Education - particularly the Auckland office. In the past an application of only a couple of pages in length has been acceptable, but these are now unlikely to be accepted. In addition, if you are applying for more than one exemption you must make it clear how each child's educational needs will be catered for - i.e. the applications need to be different, to demonstrate the unique needs of each child.

This shift in interpretation of policy is in part because of changing requirements for schools. Schools are now largely expected to provide Individual Education Plans for children, and that for a child to be taught 'as regularly and as well' as in school, the individual needs of each child should be demonstrated clearly and in some depth in the application. Another possible factor is that ERO recently ceased their routine reviews of homeschooling parents. It is possible that in the past Ministry has allowed what it saw as 'borderline' applications to pass, assuming that ERO would act as a safety net. With the cessation of routine ERO reviews, the Ministry may be toughening up on these apparently 'borderline' cases. However, when asked, the MoE said that although the cessation of routine ERO reviews had indeed put more responsibility onto the Ministry, they did not think it was a factor in how they dealt with applications.

For the full report on the meeting with ERO, see our website
http://www.nchenz.org.nz/2010/08/02/report-on-eronchenz-liaison-meeting/

For information about AHE's meeting with the MoE, see the AHE website
http://www.ahe.org.nz/2010/05/meeting-with-moe/

***Work requirements for beneficiaries***

In September, NCHENZ circulated an email describing the changes to the work requirements for beneficiaries, and the impact this will have on homeschooling parents. In short, the regulations now require that a homeschooling parent on a benefit must show that "it would be unreasonable to expect the child to attend school because of the family's circumstances" for them to be granted an exemption from work testing requirements. Circumstances under which an exemption might be granted are: that the child has special needs; or that the family lives too far from a school. The new work requirements for beneficiaries that affect homeschooling parents come into force at the end of the 2010 school year.

We strongly urge everyone to support our fellow homeschoolers who are being affected by these changes. We never know when we might face a similar situation ourselves. You are welcome to leave a comment about this issue on our website. http://www.nchenz.org.nz/have-your-say/

More recently, we understand that some home schooling parents have taken this issue to the Human Rights Commissioner. Despite the decision having already been made at the Parliamentary level, you can still write to your MP, or the MPs in charge of the WINZ and Education portfolios about this issue.

You can also contact the Welfare Working Group, which was "established by Cabinet to undertake an expansive and fundamental review of New Zealand's welfare system". They will be making a report to Cabinet in February of 2011. http://ips.ac.nz/WelfareWorkingGroup/Contact.html.

***Charity status for NCHENZ?***

NCHENZ is currently deciding whether to pursue status as a Charitable organisation with the Charities Commission. If you are an individual NCHENZ member, or are a member of one of our Member Groups, you are invited to contribute to this discussion on our Yahoo discussion loop (http://groups.yahoo.com/group/NCHEofNZ/), and by voting in the poll, which is currently live. This poll will close soon, so please make your opinion known.

***How to become a NCHENZ member***

NCHENZ is the only national home-educators' group which represents members democratically and by consensus. We need your membership in order to hear your ideas, and be as representative as possible.
Membership information and forms are available on our website
http://www.nchenz.org.nz/join-us/

-------------
You have been sent this email because you are on our list as a Member of NCHENZ, or we have your email as the contact address for a Member or Associate Group. If you have received this email in error, please email us at info@nchenz.org.nz and we will remove you from our list.

YES!! You can forward this email! We exist to support all home educators, and people interested in home education in New Zealand, not just our members.

Contact us on info@nchenz.org.nz

Applying for an Exemption to Home School in New Zealand

From Craig and Barbara Smith, Hefnet

Here are two very helpful links. The first is a cut down version of the exemption application, showing you exactly which comments the Ministry of Education (MoE) expects you to reply to: http://hef.org.nz/2010/making-an-application-for-exemption-from-enrolment-and-attendance-at-a-school/

The second is a lengthy letter giving all kinds of tips on how to answer the comments: http://hef.org.nz/2010/a-collection-of-exemption-tips-and-ideas/

I’d suggest reading those two, having a go at answering the questions, then giving Craig a ring at (06) 357-4399 or emailing Craig your phone number and he will ring you (email him at craig@hef.org.nz) or email him the draft of your exemption answers and he will comment on them. It seems complicated at first, but it really isn’t that bad at all. We can talk you through it. All free of charge. That’s why we’re here.

Please feel free to forward this email onto anyone you know who is applying for an exemption. If you have a website or blog then please feel free to repost this on your website or blog and/or to link to these pages on your website or blog.

Blessings,

Barbara
http://www.hef.org.nz

Weekend Reading - Sir Ken Robinson

Sir Ken Robinson is a speaker and thinker on education and creativity. I've seen a few of his talks online and he is always worth listening to. Here he is talking about "Changing Paradigms of Education" - about how we are currently 'doing' education in the West, and why this needs to be rethought in a major way.



These RSA-Animate videos are great :)

Diary Dates - 13 Oct 2010

every Monday during term time, 11:00 - 12:00pm: Swimsation lessons; 12:00pm on: lunch and socialising. If you are interested in joining the lessons, contact Swimsation at Moana Pool to book. Otherwise, just turn up!

every Tuesday, 12:30 - 2:00pm approx: tennis at Logan Park tennis courts. Contact Ted at for more information.

12:30pm, Wednesday 13 October: Meet up at Chingford Park, by the playground.

7:30pm, Thursday 21 October: Big People's Night Out, Nova Cafe.

1:00pm, Wednesday 10 November: First Aid workshop for intermediate aged kids. Contact Kathrin to book

Friday 12 - Saturday 13 November: Tirohanga Camp. Contact Stacey to book

Wednesday 17 November: Life Education Trust visit, Calton Hill School. Contact Annemieke to book

Remember, if it's raining, our outdoor meet-ups or walks will usually be cancelled/postponed.

Careers Service

Forwarded from Career Services. The flyer was an attachment with your email newsletter, but the same information can be found on the Library website (albeit less prettily)

Tena Koutou Katoa

See attached flyer for information on a new initiative of the Dunedin Public Libraries in partnership with Career Services.

This initiative is aimed at connecting young people living in Dunedin with a key community service/facility and to help them to access resources to build their career and employment skills.

We look forward to hearing back from you.

Noho ora mai

Tess Livingstone
Practice Leader
Career Services
7th Floor, Evan Parry House, 43 Princes Street
PO Box 859, Dunedin, New Zealand
P: (03) 474 2664 F: (03) 4775300

Freephone: 0800 222 733 or Visit: www.careers.govt.nz

Career Services logo and website link

Seek the path that's right for you / Rapua te ara tika mou ake

Helping you make good decisions about jobs, training and careers at any age or stage of your life.

50 Famously Successful People Who Are Dyslexic

The following email landed in our inbox - we thought it worthwhile forwarding it on :)

Hi,

I just posted an article on my site entitled “50 Famously Successful People Who Are Dyslexic” ( http://www.psychologydegree.com/50-famously-successful-people-who-are-dyslexic ). I thought the article was potentially something that would interest your site’s audience, so I’m emailing you to ask if you’d consider mentioning it on your site, as I’m trying to increase the readership of my site.

Either way, thank you for your time.

Best,

Patricia Duggan

Chain stories

Palin has sent through the two completed chain stories for our edification - these were sent as attachments with the email newsletter. Some very fun reading :)

Weekend Project - LED Yoyo

It being 'school holidays' and all, we don't have our regular newsletter. Instead we have a video from Kip Kay at Make Magazine - how to make a spin-activated LED yoyo. very cool. If you want a closer view, double click on the video clip and it will take you to the YouTube entry.

Weekend Reading - Erasing the Fear of Homeschooling

Hi all, this weekend reading link was suggested by Kathrin. A most excellent discovery.

Heather Sanders, a guest blogger at the Pioneer Woman blog, talks about her initial decision to homeschool, the almost overwhelming fears that accompany that decision, and how she worked her way through them. If you're at the start of your home ed journey, you may find some comfort here - even if it's just the reassurance that someone else knows your pain! And if you've been walking this path for a while now it can be helpful to remember how incredibly scary the whole thing was back at the beginning. Also helpful for those recurring panic attacks that beset us all from time to time :)

Erasing the fear of homeschooling

Diary Dates - 20 Sep 2010

There are a few changes to times etc from what has been previously listed. These are highlighted in red.

Term 3

every Monday during term time, 11:00 - 12:00pm: Swimsation lessons; 12:00pm on: lunch and socialising. If you are interested in joining the lessons, contact Swimsation at Moana Pool. Otherwise, just turn up!

every Tuesday, 12:30 - 2:00pm approx: tennis at Logan Park tennis courts. Contact Ted for more information.

10:30 - 12:30pm, Wednesday 22 September: Otago Settlers Museum trip "Sea Legs". Bookings essential - contact Kate Jenkins or email Nicola.

1:00pm, Wednesday 22 September: Meet up at Mosgiel Park, next to the library.

7:30pm, Wednesday 22 September: Big People's Night Out, Nova Cafe.

10am, Friday 24 September: Orokonui Ecosanctuary trip


Term 4

7:30pm, Thursday 21 October: Big People's Night Out, Nova Cafe.

1:00pm, Wednesday 10 November: First Aid workshop for intermediate aged kids. Contact Kathrin to book

Friday 12 - Saturday 13 November: Tirohanga Camp. Contact Stacey to book

Wednesday 17 November: Life Education Trust visit, Calton Hill School. Contact Annemieke to book

Remember, if it's raining, our outdoor meet-ups or walks will usually be cancelled/postponed.

Orokonui Ecosanctuary Trip

From Julie Wiel:

The trip is scheduled for Friday, 24th September....if weather is bad we will postpone till 4th term (could be hard to schedule, so please pray for good weather).

Cost: $5 per child, babies are free, but a donation would be nice. Extra adults please make a donation.

Make sure you wear walking shoes - it is a downhill 90 minute walk to see the saddlebacks & NZ's tallest tree (this is an optional walk). You will need water bottle & jacket. Transport back up the hill will be provided.

You can bring your own lunch, or buy at the cafe there (pretty pricey) if you are staying the whole day.

Morning: 3 groups for children
* 7 years & below (incl. pre-schoolers)
* 8-11 years
* 12 years & upwards.

Littlies will be doing fun stuff & walking to a viewing platform

8-11 year olds will be working with "tracker tunnels" for catching pests (made with ink and cardboard).

Older ones will be tree planting. We can put up a plaque, but cost for this is $100, so let Julie know if you are keen.

If you take the motorway out to blueskin nursery (at Waitati) the sanctuary is signposted from there (initially brown signs, and then later changing). Please allow plenty of time as it is a long windy road up to the sanctuary.

We need to start promptly at 10.00 am, so please make sure you arrive early.

There are still places available if you are keen to come along.

Congratulations Corner

Congratulations to all the kids who played at the Saturday Morning Music Classes concert today! It's always an achievement to make it to the end of the concert, not to mention the term :-)

Life Education Trust caravan

From Annemieke:
On 17 November we have two sessions booked with Harold the Giraffe from the Life Education Trust. It will be held at Calton Hill school, but Jacki has organized two sessions for home schoolers only.
The sessions are as follows:

9.00-11.00am for 5 - 8 year olds. The program is: Harold's picnic, food for energy, space invaders.

11.20-1.40pm for 9 - 13 year olds. The program is: Body journey, warrant of fitness.

The cost is only a few dollars per child, around $4, depending on the amount of children coming. These classes are usually very educational and fun, and I am taking the last bookings now. Please let me know this week if you are coming.

Annemieke

Diary Dates - 13 Sep 2010

Term 3

every Monday during term time, 11:00 - 12:00pm: Swimsation lessons; 12:00pm on: lunch and socialising. If you are interested in joining the lessons, contact Swimsation at Moana Pool to book. Otherwise, just turn up!

every Tuesday, 12:30 - 2:00pm approx: tennis at Logan Park tennis courts. Contact Ted for more information.

12:30pm, Wednesday 15 September: Meet up at Dinosaur Park/Marlow Park, bring bikes, scooters, the usual multi-wheeled objects, and clothes to protect from the biting St Kilda winds.

10:30 - 12:30pm, Friday 17 September: Otago Settlers Museum trip "Dominoes". Bookings essential - contact Kate Jenkins or email Nicola.

10:30 - 12:30pm, Wednesday 22 September: Otago Settlers Museum trip "Sea Legs". Bookings essential - contact Kate Jenkins or email Nicola.

12:30pm, Wednesday 22 September: Meet up at Mosgiel Park, next to the library.

7:30pm, Thursday 23 September: Big People's Night Out, Nova Cafe.


Term 4

7:30pm, Thursday 21 October: Big People's Night Out, Nova Cafe.

1:00pm, Wednesday 10 November: First Aid workshop for intermediate aged kids. Contact Kathrin to book

Friday 12 - Saturday 13 November: Tirohanga Camp. Contact Stacey to book

Wednesday 17 November: Life Education Trust visit, Calton Hill School. Contact Annemieke to book

Remember, if it's raining, our outdoor meet-ups or walks will usually be canceled/postponed.

9 Weeks until the 2010 SHEAF camp!

The camp is shaping up to be a bunch of fun. So far I've heard back from about 9 families, and there's room for about 6 more families, so be in quick!

At this stage, I plan to assign a cabin to each family group, leaving the actual arrangements to each family - but there will be enough room in each cabin for the family assigned to it! (the cabins come in 4-bed, 6-bed and 8-bed sizes). I hope to have all families with little pre-schoolers in the warmer lodge-type cabins. There is also apparently space (with electrical hook-up) for 2 caravans/motor homes if anyone would like to bring their own bedrooms with them (the cost is still $10 per person).

The price for day-visitors is $5 per person - so any family who has members not totally keen on spending the night can have one or more people join us on Saturday morning for the day.

So - to recap the details:
location - Tirohanga Camp, near Mosgiel
when - 4.30pm Friday 12th November to 3pm Saturday 13th November
cost - $10 per person plus about $10 per family (for firewood etc). $5 per day-visitor. Pre-schoolers free.
food - BYO and potluck

Contact me for more details and to book in!
Cheers
Stacey

AVKO Tour (on Dyslexia)

From Learnex, via Selina-Jane and CHEF:

Don McCabe, Research Director of the AVKO Educational Research Foundation, and author of over forty books (including the Sequential Spelling series) will be visiting NZ at the end of next month. Don is dyslexic and has dedicated his life to helping dyslexics become literate rather than being limited by labels.

We’ve only just been advised about the tour so are hurriedly looking at organising a few events. If you are based in Dunedin, Christchurch or Wellington and are interested in helping to organise or attend an event, please contact me off list ASAP. Don uses a multi sensory approach to teaching literacy as he teaches all four skills of writing, reading, spelling and listening at once.

If you haven’t heard of Don McCabe before, check out this YouTube link (I think it was originally from a TV documentary) as he takes a 17-year-old dyslexic through his first lesson at the AVKO Dyslexia Research Foundation. You will be able to watch the young man's face as he discovers that Mr. McCabe has "tricked him" into being able to read and spell instantly the word malicious!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kNvIpDJwPfg

Also, he has just put up a new video called, ”You Can’t Teach What you Know if you Don’t Know that you Know it” which deals with some of the ridiculous English spelling anomalies.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7cIwUR5uTRE

These videos and other AVKO on YouTube are worth a look even if you are unable to attend a seminar.

The dates we have are as follows:

Oct 27 Dunedin
Oct 28 Christchurch
Oct 29 Wellington

We are still trying to twist his arm to have something in Auckland date yet but this hasn’t been confirmed.

Erena

(The AVKO tour is brought to you by The Firelight Foundation. The Firelight Foundation is the non-profit wing of LearnEX – www.learnex.co.nz .)

New Zealand Vegemite Spelling Bee

From Selina-Jane and CHEF:

My name is Janet Lucas and I am the organiser of the New Zealand Vegemite Spelling Bee. I would appreciate it if you could forward the information below about the spelling bee to parents of year eight students as the event has changed. It now starts when the US Spelling Bee starts (now) instead of next year when the students are in Year Nine.

The enrollment process has also changed. Schools must enrol directly with Scripps online in the US and pay $US99. Home schooled children are eligible for participation in the New Zealand Vegemite Spelling Bee. They follow the same enrollment instructions as a school does but pay a $US10 enrollment fee.

For more information go to: http://hef.org.nz/2010/new-zealand-vegemite-spelling-bee/

Marine Conservation Tours

From Selina-Jane and CHEF:

Saturday 11th - Sunday 19th September 2010

Love New Zealand sea creatures!

Meet the unique and diverse creatures that live in the harbour on your doorstep and find out how you can help to ensure they are there for future generations to enjoy.

In celebration of Conservation Week, join a 10.30am tour at the NZ Marine Studies for half the normal price and take home a free Rocky Shore Guide.

Normal price for a guided tour is $21 Adult, $11 Child, $48 Family, with concessions available for Seniors and Students. During Conservation Week these prices will be 50% off.

To book a place, please phone the NZ Marine Studies Centre on 03 479 5826 or email your request to marine-studies@otago.ac.nz


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New Zealand Marine Studies Centre
University of Otago, Marine Science Department
Hatchery Road, Portobello, Dunedin, NZ
Open daily from 10am - 4.30pm
WWW.MARINE.AC.NZ

Children's Commissioner looking for 12-15 year old young people who are passionate about Aotearoa New Zealand

Also see your newsletter for the three YPRG attachments for more information.

CHILDREN'S COMMISSIONER IS LOOKING FOR NEW MEMBERS FOR HIS YOUNG PEOPLE'S REFERENCE GROUP

The Young People's Reference Group is one way the Children's Commissioner hears first hand what it's like being young in New Zealand. The group provides their views, and looks at potential solutions to key issues affecting New Zealand/Aotearoa. Members of the Young Peoples Reference Group serve a two-year term, they are seen as staff to the Children's Commissioner and their contributions are woven throughout the work of the Office.

Do you know of young people who are interested in speaking about issues that impact on children and young people? Want a chance to influence decision-makers? Aged between 12-15 years? Are good at working in a team? Currently connected to school groups, community groups, church groups, their local hapu and iwi or sports club? Like to work hard and are looking for a challenge?

The Children's Commissioner covers all costs for members of the Young People's Reference Group.

Then the Children's Commissioner, who is a voice for children and young people in New Zealand/Aotearoa, is interested in hearing from them. The Children's Commissioner would be grateful if you could mention this opportunity to young people you are connected to.

WHAT IS IN IT FOR THEM
· Being a strong voice to decision-makers
· Learning about government and decision-making processes
· Learning about Aotearoa New Zealand and our diverse communities
· Building confidence around public speaking
· Developing your writing skills
· Working with different young people and adults from around Aotearoa New Zealand
· Building media skills
· Attending conferences
· Coming to Wellington four times a year
· Having fun and eating lots of food
· Being paid for their time

Attached is a recruitment flyer and quick guide to the Young People's Reference Group that may be used for promotional information.

Application forms can be downloaded at www.occ.org.nz/yprg We are happy to send applications out, please request one via 0800 22 44 53 ex 808, or email children@occ.org.nz with your address and we will send you one.

If you would like to learn more about the role and the Office of the Children's Commissioner check out: www.occ.org.nz

All fully completed applications can be sent to:
Rebecca Blaikie
Office of the Children's Commissioner
P O Box 5610
WELLINGTON 6145

Applications to apply for the Children's Commissioner's Young People's Reference Group will close at 5pm on Sunday October 31, 2010.

The deadline has been extended as many of the applications received to date are from young people who unfortunately fall out of the age bracket of the group. The Children's Commissioner needs to receive applications from young people under the age of 16, as this allows members to serve a full two-year term with the opportunity to stay until they are 18 years of age.

A decision around successful applications will be made in early December 2010. The new members will have their first meeting in February 2011.

Work requirements for those on benefits

Email from NCHENZ:

NOTE!! The new work requirements for beneficiaries that affect homeschooling parents come into force at the end of the 2010 school year. See the information direct from Paula Bennett at
http://www.nchenz.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/Tarnya-Burge-07-09-10.pdf

http://www.nchenz.org.nz/2010/09/07/more-on-dpb-and-work-requirements/

Recent legislation has seen changes in the work requirements for beneficiaries. Until now parents on a benefit who homeschool their child(ren) were generally exempt from these requirements, but no longer.

The regulations now require that homeschooling parent on a benefit must show that "it would be unreasonable to expect the child to
attend school because of the family's circumstances" for them to be granted an exemption from work test requirements. Section 6 (2) (c) of the new regulations.

Circumstances under which an exemption might be granted are that the child has special needs, or that the family lives too far from a school.

Note that these regulations affect those on sickness and unemployment benefits as well as the DPB.

I strongly urge all homeschoolers to support our fellow homeschoolers who are being affected by these changes. We never know when we might face the same situation ourselves.
Please leave a comment on our webpage
http://www.nchenz.org.nz/have-your-say/

Regards from someone who has been a single homeschooling parent.
Penny Bilton.

Co-ordinator of NCHENZ

Chemistry courses confirmed for Feb 2011

From Nathalie Thomas:

We are running two chemistry workshops for home educating families at Otago University on 16 and 17 February 2011. Each workshop runs for three hours. The focus is on practical work and using equipment and chemicals in the laboratory.

Cost per workshop is $40 for one student or $75 for two students enrolling together.

Forensics workshop Students will practice being a forensic scientist by examining powders and using chemical tests to identify them.
Suitable for children 11-17 years (note that a parent needs to attend with their child if the child is under 14 years of age).

Year 11 Chemistry Workshop We will look at precipitation reactions, identifying unknown ions and rates of reaction. These practical chemistry experiments support NCEA level 1 science of the New Zealand curriculum. Some pre-study of chemistry theory is required. Suitable for children 14-17 years.

Courses are run by Nathalie Thomas, a fully qualified science teacher (and home educating mum) with a degree in chemistry. If you would like more information or a booking form, please email Nathalie on: info@science-for-home-educators.co.nz.

Best regards,

Nathalie Thomas, MSc, DipT
Science for Home Educators
PO Box 179
Katikati 3166
Bay of Plenty
Ph (07) 5490383
www.science-for-home-educators.co.nz

Kiwi Conservation Club needs a new co-ordinator

The most recent KCC newsletter sent out a request for a new co-ordinator for the Dunedin branch. This work involves about 16 hours per month, which includes organising trips and writing the newsletter.

If you think you could help, email Mark Hanger at markhanger@naturequest.co.nz, or ring Mark or Janet Ledingham on 489 3233.

For more info about KCC, check here: http://www.kcc.org.nz/ (quite a few of us are KCC members - their magasines are in the library too, if you want to have a look)

Dunedin Kids Market

The first Dunedin Kids Market will be held next Sunday (19 September) from 10am - 2pm, at the Bayfield High School Gym, on Shore Street. Pre-loved clothes and toys for 0 - 8 year olds will be sold, as well as new products for all. Here's their blurb:

Well the countdown is on! We have 56 stalls booked so far with something for everyone....clothing, gifts, toys, children's accessories, photography, décor, you name it we’ve got it. As you wander around the stalls treat yourself to a hot coffee and BBQ sausage sizzle or something sweet from the Elm Row bake stall. It is going to be a great day out!

Term 4 planning for SHEAF activities

Donna and Ted have both suggested that we do some short bush walks next term, possibly on a weekly or monthly basis. Donna recommended the book "Dunedin Tracks and Trails" by Antony Hamel (I'm not sure if that's the same book Ted also had), which she bought from Paper Plus. Nicola'll keep you posted with any plans!

Otago Settlers Museum trips

Kate Jenkins has booked two visits to the Settlers Museum to participate in two separate programs, both aimed at primary aged students. They have said that it's important we keep the maximum number of students to 20, so bookings are essential. Here are the details:

* Friday 17th September 10.30-12.30 “Dominoes” – looking broadly at toys and specifically at dominoes
* Wednesday 22nd September 10-30- 12.30 “Sea Legs” – interactive simulation of a long sea journey

If you're interested, please email Nicola and she will pass your details on to Kate so that we can confirm there are enough spaces.