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 8 September: Intriguing Dunedin Street Walk, green book 3, walk 1. Meet on The Esplanade, St Clair.
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.
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.
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.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
From the CHEF newsletter:
Contact Selina-Jane for more information, or to join the Christian Home Educators Fellowship (Dunedin's newest home ed group) mail list.
For Sale:
Maths Plus for New Zealand Schools 5 (working towards level 3) by Fiona Grant & Harry O'Brien. Appropriate for Years 5-7 (Note: this is school years, not age!). Julie is wanting $15.00 for it. If you are interested in having a look, I have it at my (Selina-Jane's) house, if you have any questions or wish to buy it, then contact Julie Weil.
For Looking At:
Julie has given me (S-J) extra copies of RIC publications 2010 Educational Resources Catalogue. This is an NZ company and the catalogues are choc full of stuff. Let me know if you want to have a look.
Orakanui Sanctuary Trip:
The confirmed date for the trip is 24th September. Julie would like people to confirm with her that they still wish to come along. She would also like us to let her know the names and ages of the children coming along with us.
Any who are interested can either text Julie ring her on home phone.
Dear All,
Kate Jenkins here, Mekyja's mum. Havent seen much of you all, but was just wondering if anyone is keen on forming a group to do a couple of activities at the Settlers Museum in the next fortnight or so. They have an actor Danny Still offering "Sealegs: an immersive ineractive experience. Daily chores, scurvy and hardship awaits your class in the cramped steerage cabin enroute from Scotland to Dunedin" and another activity involving 10000 dominoes... anyway, good for most ages (Kindy thru Primary) and free for school groups. Any day is good and time flexible. Goes for about 1 and a half hours. Contact Kate for more info
For Sale:
Maths Plus for New Zealand Schools 5 (working towards level 3) by Fiona Grant & Harry O'Brien. Appropriate for Years 5-7 (Note: this is school years, not age!). Julie is wanting $15.00 for it. If you are interested in having a look, I have it at my (Selina-Jane's) house, if you have any questions or wish to buy it, then contact Julie Weil.
For Looking At:
Julie has given me (S-J) extra copies of RIC publications 2010 Educational Resources Catalogue. This is an NZ company and the catalogues are choc full of stuff. Let me know if you want to have a look.
Orakanui Sanctuary Trip:
The confirmed date for the trip is 24th September. Julie would like people to confirm with her that they still wish to come along. She would also like us to let her know the names and ages of the children coming along with us.
Any who are interested can either text Julie ring her on home phone.
Dear All,
Kate Jenkins here, Mekyja's mum. Havent seen much of you all, but was just wondering if anyone is keen on forming a group to do a couple of activities at the Settlers Museum in the next fortnight or so. They have an actor Danny Still offering "Sealegs: an immersive ineractive experience. Daily chores, scurvy and hardship awaits your class in the cramped steerage cabin enroute from Scotland to Dunedin" and another activity involving 10000 dominoes... anyway, good for most ages (Kindy thru Primary) and free for school groups. Any day is good and time flexible. Goes for about 1 and a half hours. Contact Kate for more info
Fernhill Community Garden
Forwarded by Stacey
This year the DCC granted the Fernhill community Garden Trust a license to establish and run a community garden on the Palmyra Reserve off Stafford St (between Stafford and Carroll streets). The Trust hopes to begin this work in October.
The following positions are sought to be filled by suitably gifted and interested people:
Head Gardener (1 year voluntary): Someone with experience in gardening. The ability to establish a garden from scratch and able to supervise workers.
Construction manager (approx 6 months voluntary): Practical skills and experience in the area of outdoor construction
General helpers: Anybody (young and old) who would be interested in playing a part in this exciting community project.
For anybody interested in the project and considering helping out, please contact Bruce at: bruce@asco.org.nz
This year the DCC granted the Fernhill community Garden Trust a license to establish and run a community garden on the Palmyra Reserve off Stafford St (between Stafford and Carroll streets). The Trust hopes to begin this work in October.
The following positions are sought to be filled by suitably gifted and interested people:
Head Gardener (1 year voluntary): Someone with experience in gardening. The ability to establish a garden from scratch and able to supervise workers.
Construction manager (approx 6 months voluntary): Practical skills and experience in the area of outdoor construction
General helpers: Anybody (young and old) who would be interested in playing a part in this exciting community project.
For anybody interested in the project and considering helping out, please contact Bruce at: bruce@asco.org.nz
Watoto Children’s Choir
Forwarded by Claire:
The wonderful Watoto Children’s Choir – 22 beautiful boys and girls from Uganda – are performing the following concert locally:
Dunedin
When: Fri 17
Venue: Dunedin Town Hall, The Octagon, Dunedin
Time: 7pm
When: Sat 18
Venue: C3 Church, 22 Vogel St
Time: 7pm
Mosgiel
When: Sun 19
Venue: Mosgiel-North Taieri Presbyterian Church, 9 Church St
Time: 10am
When: Sun 19
Venue: East Taieri Presbyterian Church, 12A Cemetery Rd
Time: 2pm
Be inspired by this group of parentless children, who will share their unique blend of native African rhythms, contemporary gospel music, ethnic dance and costumes along with a message of God's love. This concert is free with an opportunity to make a donation to the work of Watoto. Brought to you by TEAR Fund NZ.
The wonderful Watoto Children’s Choir – 22 beautiful boys and girls from Uganda – are performing the following concert locally:
Dunedin
When: Fri 17
Venue: Dunedin Town Hall, The Octagon, Dunedin
Time: 7pm
When: Sat 18
Venue: C3 Church, 22 Vogel St
Time: 7pm
Mosgiel
When: Sun 19
Venue: Mosgiel-North Taieri Presbyterian Church, 9 Church St
Time: 10am
When: Sun 19
Venue: East Taieri Presbyterian Church, 12A Cemetery Rd
Time: 2pm
Be inspired by this group of parentless children, who will share their unique blend of native African rhythms, contemporary gospel music, ethnic dance and costumes along with a message of God's love. This concert is free with an opportunity to make a donation to the work of Watoto. Brought to you by TEAR Fund NZ.
Congratulations Corner!
Congratulations to Palin this week! From Ted:
Just wanted to pass along that Palin won the Koputai Indoor Bowls Club "Pairs Tournament" last night. He also won the club raffle so it was a good night.
Just wanted to pass along that Palin won the Koputai Indoor Bowls Club "Pairs Tournament" last night. He also won the club raffle so it was a good night.
SAFE Love Pigs
September 1 is Random Acts of Kindness Day, but if you can't think of anything random to do, you could try some 'planned' kindness and sign this petition to stop factory farming of pigs in New Zealand:
http://www.lovepigs.org.nz/
http://www.lovepigs.org.nz/
Tennis
Ted and family will be in Christchurch for the next month, so won't be back at the tennis courts till next term. Obviously, the tennis courts will still be available, but it won't be the same without Ted's seemingly endless energy and enthusiasm!
Friday, August 27, 2010
Weekend Reading - A Conversation with John Holt
The late John Holt is held by many to be the father of modern home education. Through his struggles within the formal education system, and his observation of how children actually learn, and how they were failed by the US school system during the 1960s, he became a huge proponent and supporter of home education.
In 1980, Marlene Bumgarner, a homeschooling parent, hosted author John Holt in her home while he was in California for a lecture tour. While he played in the garden with her two children, John and Dona Ana, she interviewed him for the bimonthly magazine Mothering. (Article 'reprinted' by the Natural Child Project website)
In 1980, Marlene Bumgarner, a homeschooling parent, hosted author John Holt in her home while he was in California for a lecture tour. While he played in the garden with her two children, John and Dona Ana, she interviewed him for the bimonthly magazine Mothering. (Article 'reprinted' by the Natural Child Project website)
A Conversation With John Holt (1980)
p.s. both the Mothering and the Natural Child websites look like fabulous resources for anyone wanting to know more about child-led parenting.
Monday, August 23, 2010
Diary Dates - 23 August 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.
7:30pm, Tuesday 24 August: Big People's Night Out, Nova Cafe.
12:30pm, Wednesday 25 August: Meet up at the Edgar Centre, $2 per child. Bring lunch, marbles, scooters, bikes, racquets etc.
1:00pm, Wednesday 1 September: St John's "Safe Kids" first aid course for children. Contact Kathrin to book
12:30pm, Wednesday 8 September: Intriguing Dunedin Street Walk, green book 3, walk 1. Meet on The Esplanade, St Clair.
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.
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
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.
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.
7:30pm, Tuesday 24 August: Big People's Night Out, Nova Cafe.
12:30pm, Wednesday 25 August: Meet up at the Edgar Centre, $2 per child. Bring lunch, marbles, scooters, bikes, racquets etc.
1:00pm, Wednesday 1 September: St John's "Safe Kids" first aid course for children. Contact Kathrin to book
12:30pm, Wednesday 8 September: Intriguing Dunedin Street Walk, green book 3, walk 1. Meet on The Esplanade, St Clair.
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.
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
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.
Chemistry Courses 2011 - register your interest now!
Quite a few of our families attended this course earlier this year and really enjoyed it.
From Nathalie Thomas:
From Nathalie Thomas:
Hi everyone,
Otago university has given me permission to use their chemistry laboratory again in February 2011. I would like to get some indication of interest from those of you who have attended earlier this year. I would also appreciate it if you can forward this information on to friends who didn’t attend and who may be interested in attending.
My plan for February next year is to offer two different 3-hour lab workshops. One for children aged 11+ (based on year 9/10 science) and one for children aged 14+ (based on year 11 science). The workshops will be offered on Wed 16 Feb and/or Thurs 17 Feb. Cost will be around $38-$40 per student for each 3-hour workshop.
The year 9/10 workshop will have a forensic theme to it. We will study a selection of white powders and see if we can identify them using chemical reactions.
The year 11 workshop will focus on precipitation reactions, ionic compounds and rates of reaction. Some theoretical prestudy will be required, I will email out study objectives.
I would appreciate your feedback so I can get an idea if it’s viable for me to go ahead and plan these courses.
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
Ski trip
This sounds like a great opportunity, especially if you have kids that haven't skied before. The lessons are usually much more expensive, and are a great way to begin, or to improve your skills. If you're interested, please let Gary know as soon as possible, as September is nearly here!
Gary Dalzell has been in touch with the group coordinator at Cardrona skifield about getting concession rates for a group of homeschoolers. We would need 15 skiers a day to qualify for their cheaper rates. If we went offpeak and midweek the rate would be $50 for a lesson, lift pass and ski hire (so less if you can beg, borrow some gear). This is about half of standard rates. Could you send this out please and see if there are any other families interested. If there is enough interest it would be great to organise a trip in September but even if people are interested for next year it would be good to know so we could plan ahead. Hopefully between us we can organise some reasonably cheap accomodation in Wanaka, friends with cribs etc.
Gary also suggested that if there is enough interest he could ask if they could havea person who would talk on mountain safety and running a ski resort, e.g. snowmaking, snow caving, rescuing people off the ski field, looking after chair lift equipment and the roads etc.
If anyone is interested can they get in touch with the Dalzells
OFF PEAK: 25th June to 30th July*; 30th August to 3 October
Lesson (compulsory) Base rate is $21
Day lift ticket Midweek $15
Weekend $24
Rental Std shaped ski set $14
Snowboard $21
Gary Dalzell has been in touch with the group coordinator at Cardrona skifield about getting concession rates for a group of homeschoolers. We would need 15 skiers a day to qualify for their cheaper rates. If we went offpeak and midweek the rate would be $50 for a lesson, lift pass and ski hire (so less if you can beg, borrow some gear). This is about half of standard rates. Could you send this out please and see if there are any other families interested. If there is enough interest it would be great to organise a trip in September but even if people are interested for next year it would be good to know so we could plan ahead. Hopefully between us we can organise some reasonably cheap accomodation in Wanaka, friends with cribs etc.
Gary also suggested that if there is enough interest he could ask if they could havea person who would talk on mountain safety and running a ski resort, e.g. snowmaking, snow caving, rescuing people off the ski field, looking after chair lift equipment and the roads etc.
If anyone is interested can they get in touch with the Dalzells
OFF PEAK: 25th June to 30th July*; 30th August to 3 October
Lesson (compulsory) Base rate is $21
Day lift ticket Midweek $15
Weekend $24
Rental Std shaped ski set $14
Snowboard $21
Friday, August 20, 2010
Weekend Reading - the moral life of babies
Okay, not strictly a home education topic, but we're all interested in child development in some form or other, are we not? I found this article to be completely fascinating. This researcher is looking into the phenomenon of babies making recognisably moral decisions, like a one year old punishing a puppet for not sharing with another puppet...
The Moral Life of Babies by Paul Bloom
The Moral Life of Babies by Paul Bloom
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Diary Dates - 15 August 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 18 August: Meet up at Botanic Gardens playground (this may only be for an hour or so, as some of the group will be going to a museum workshop at 2:30pm).
2:30 - 4:00pm, Wednesday 18 August: Feel the Force workshop, Otago Museum, $3 per child. FULLY BOOKED
7:30pm, Tuesday 24 August: Big People's Night Out, Nova Cafe.
12:30pm, Wednesday 25 August: Meet up at the Edgar Centre, $2 per child. Bring lunch, marbles, scooters, bikes, racquets etc.
1:00pm, Wednesday 1 September: St John's "Safe Kids" first aid course for children. Contact Kathrin to book
12:30pm, Wednesday 8 September: Intriguing Dunedin Street Walk, green book 3, walk 1. Meet on The Esplanade, St Clair.
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.
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
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.
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 18 August: Meet up at Botanic Gardens playground (this may only be for an hour or so, as some of the group will be going to a museum workshop at 2:30pm).
2:30 - 4:00pm, Wednesday 18 August: Feel the Force workshop, Otago Museum, $3 per child. FULLY BOOKED
7:30pm, Tuesday 24 August: Big People's Night Out, Nova Cafe.
12:30pm, Wednesday 25 August: Meet up at the Edgar Centre, $2 per child. Bring lunch, marbles, scooters, bikes, racquets etc.
1:00pm, Wednesday 1 September: St John's "Safe Kids" first aid course for children. Contact Kathrin to book
12:30pm, Wednesday 8 September: Intriguing Dunedin Street Walk, green book 3, walk 1. Meet on The Esplanade, St Clair.
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.
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
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.
Trading Post/Shameless Self-Promotion Corner
From Nicola:
Before I abuse the privileges of writing this newsletter too much, if anyone has anything that could fit into this category which they'd like to share through the newsletter, send a blurb to me. I'm thinking of resources people no longer need, as well as goods or services that relate to home education/family life, which could pretty much cover everything! No full blown ads on a regular basis, but a few sentences with any relevant links should be OK, as well as the usual 'for sale' stuff that we include whenever anyone has something to sell. I like the idea of helping people to recycle their second-hand stuff, and also of letting our group know about any of our members' family-run businesses. Any opinions either way from the group?
The purpose of all that was to assuage my conscience when I write the following....if anyone would like to buy some very useful and attractive reusable sandwich wraps, have a look at Ginger Pye, which my sister and I are currently setting up. Here are our Facebook and TradeMe links :-)
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Home-living/Kitchen/Other/auction-310523496.htm
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Dunedin/Ginger-Pye/105615756163931
Before I abuse the privileges of writing this newsletter too much, if anyone has anything that could fit into this category which they'd like to share through the newsletter, send a blurb to me. I'm thinking of resources people no longer need, as well as goods or services that relate to home education/family life, which could pretty much cover everything! No full blown ads on a regular basis, but a few sentences with any relevant links should be OK, as well as the usual 'for sale' stuff that we include whenever anyone has something to sell. I like the idea of helping people to recycle their second-hand stuff, and also of letting our group know about any of our members' family-run businesses. Any opinions either way from the group?
The purpose of all that was to assuage my conscience when I write the following....if anyone would like to buy some very useful and attractive reusable sandwich wraps, have a look at Ginger Pye, which my sister and I are currently setting up. Here are our Facebook and TradeMe links :-)
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Home-living/Kitchen/Other/auction-310523496.htm
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Dunedin/Ginger-Pye/105615756163931
Resources on the web - Homeschool Fun
From NCHENZ email:
I started this list on-line last year and it has grown (thanks to everyone who contributed!) It now has over 350 fun links, so it has just had a major "face lift" to organize it by topics.
Hope you find something that helps you at Homeschool Fun: http://www.squidoo.com/homeschoolfun
Feel free to share this with other homeschoolers.
Cheers,
Rhonda
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Homeschool-Fun-for-Tweens-and-Teens/345426113426
I started this list on-line last year and it has grown (thanks to everyone who contributed!) It now has over 350 fun links, so it has just had a major "face lift" to organize it by topics.
Hope you find something that helps you at Homeschool Fun: http://www.squidoo.com/homeschoolfun
Feel free to share this with other homeschoolers.
Cheers,
Rhonda
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Homeschool-Fun-for-Tweens-and-Teens/345426113426
New home education group - CHEF
From Selina-Jane:
Selina-Jane has started a new Home Educators group - Christian Home Educators Fellowship (CHEF).
CHEF will have a Christian focus - an important part of our gatherings will be spending time praying for each others needs.
CHEF will be a relaxed, safe place to be. There will be no business details to discuss, and no agenda to the meetings, apart from fellowship for both parents, and children.
CHEF will provide us the opportunities to do things as a group. Outings to parks, museums, activities, etc., will be a regular part of the group.
If you would like to know a bit more about the group, or be put on the email list for it, then contact Selina-Jane
Selina-Jane has started a new Home Educators group - Christian Home Educators Fellowship (CHEF).
CHEF will have a Christian focus - an important part of our gatherings will be spending time praying for each others needs.
CHEF will be a relaxed, safe place to be. There will be no business details to discuss, and no agenda to the meetings, apart from fellowship for both parents, and children.
CHEF will provide us the opportunities to do things as a group. Outings to parks, museums, activities, etc., will be a regular part of the group.
If you would like to know a bit more about the group, or be put on the email list for it, then contact Selina-Jane
fabric sale heads-up
From Stacey:
Anyone who sews may like to know that Moreland's Fabric on Filleul St is closing down, and all their fabric is HALF PRICE. I have no idea how much longer the sale will continue for, but when I was in on Monday they still had a lot of stock in store. Anyone who heads in should wrap up warmly, though, as they don't have any heating going. Brrrr!
(From Nicola: Morelands is planning on being open till some time in September).
Anyone who sews may like to know that Moreland's Fabric on Filleul St is closing down, and all their fabric is HALF PRICE. I have no idea how much longer the sale will continue for, but when I was in on Monday they still had a lot of stock in store. Anyone who heads in should wrap up warmly, though, as they don't have any heating going. Brrrr!
(From Nicola: Morelands is planning on being open till some time in September).
2010 SHEAF Camp!
The deposit has been paid, the booking has been confirmed! Tirohanga camp has been booked for us between 4.30pm Friday the 12th November and 3pm Saturday 13th November. This will be a fun, relaxed opportunity to catch up with and meet home educating families from in and around Dunedin. We'll be keeping actual monetary costs to an absolute minimum, so meals will likely be pot-luck or BYO. As Nicola said in last week's newsletter, the base unit cost for staying is $10 per person overnight, with preschoolers (under-5s) being free. There will be other costs, such as firewood, which are a flat rate and will be shared out among the families once I have concrete, finalised numbers - so, the more the merrier! That being said, the additional costs are unlikely to be more than a further $10 per family.
The camp has a confidence course, and a 'team-building course', as well as a wee walking track, glow-worms (apparently), a firepit (weather and council fire-permit permitting), a big playing field to run around on, and a largish hall for us to hang out into the night playing board games or whatever. I've had one nervous enquiry as to whether the confidence course will be compulsory, and I can say a categorical NO! - not on your Nellie! All activities etc will be a purely optional, 'participant-centred' experience.
Contact Stacey to book in, and to be kept up to date with any developments!
The camp has a confidence course, and a 'team-building course', as well as a wee walking track, glow-worms (apparently), a firepit (weather and council fire-permit permitting), a big playing field to run around on, and a largish hall for us to hang out into the night playing board games or whatever. I've had one nervous enquiry as to whether the confidence course will be compulsory, and I can say a categorical NO! - not on your Nellie! All activities etc will be a purely optional, 'participant-centred' experience.
Contact Stacey to book in, and to be kept up to date with any developments!
Friday, August 13, 2010
Weekend Reading - Learning Styles
You may be familiar with the concept of different people having different 'learning styles' - auditory learners, kinaesethetic learners, visual learners etc etc, but what about your own kids, and even if you know, how can that information be helpful?
Here are a couple of resources to get you started:
Learning Styles Online is a good place to start - it has all the information there, plus a free 70-question quiz to get you going.
Personally,though, I still prefer to read an actual book :~) so if the above website whetted your appetite and you want more, then have a look at the following book. Don't buy it, though! The Dunedin Public Library holds several copies.
Discover your child's learning style, by Miariaemma Willis and Victoria Kindle Hodson
This book is great, because it not only helps identify the different learning styles, it talks about the different sub-categories - like visual learners who think in pictures, as opposed to visual learners who think by seeing writing on their internal white board. I also really liked the way they honour different preferences about learning environments too - some kids really do learn better with background noise like stereo or music, others need total quiet; some need to be able to see other people and feel connected to what is happening around them, while others can't concentrate if there is any activity at all nearby. Not only that, but for each learning style they actually have a resource list of the types of programs or approaches that seem to work best.
Here are a couple of resources to get you started:
Learning Styles Online is a good place to start - it has all the information there, plus a free 70-question quiz to get you going.
Personally,though, I still prefer to read an actual book :~) so if the above website whetted your appetite and you want more, then have a look at the following book. Don't buy it, though! The Dunedin Public Library holds several copies.
Discover your child's learning style, by Miariaemma Willis and Victoria Kindle Hodson
This book is great, because it not only helps identify the different learning styles, it talks about the different sub-categories - like visual learners who think in pictures, as opposed to visual learners who think by seeing writing on their internal white board. I also really liked the way they honour different preferences about learning environments too - some kids really do learn better with background noise like stereo or music, others need total quiet; some need to be able to see other people and feel connected to what is happening around them, while others can't concentrate if there is any activity at all nearby. Not only that, but for each learning style they actually have a resource list of the types of programs or approaches that seem to work best.
Monday, August 9, 2010
Diary Dates
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.
12:30pm, Wednesday 11 August: Intriguing Dunedin Street Walk, blue book, walk 5. Meet outside of 103 Malvern St.
12:30pm, Wednesday 18 August: Meet up at Botanic Gardens playground (this may only be for an hour or so, as some of the group will be going to a museum workshop at 2:30pm).
2:30 - 4:00pm, Wednesday 18 August: Feel the Force workshop, Otago Museum, $3 per child. FULLY BOOKED
7:30pm, Tuesday 24 August: Big People's Night Out, Nova Cafe.
12:30pm, Wednesday 25 August: Meet up at the Edgar Centre, $2 per child. Bring lunch, marbles, scooters, bikes, racquets etc.
1:00pm, Wednesday 1 September: St John's "Safe Kids" first aid course for children. Contact Kathrin to book
12:30pm, Wednesday 8 September: Intriguing Dunedin Street Walk, green book 3, walk 1. Meet on The Esplanade, St Clair.
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.
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
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.
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.
12:30pm, Wednesday 11 August: Intriguing Dunedin Street Walk, blue book, walk 5. Meet outside of 103 Malvern St.
12:30pm, Wednesday 18 August: Meet up at Botanic Gardens playground (this may only be for an hour or so, as some of the group will be going to a museum workshop at 2:30pm).
2:30 - 4:00pm, Wednesday 18 August: Feel the Force workshop, Otago Museum, $3 per child. FULLY BOOKED
7:30pm, Tuesday 24 August: Big People's Night Out, Nova Cafe.
12:30pm, Wednesday 25 August: Meet up at the Edgar Centre, $2 per child. Bring lunch, marbles, scooters, bikes, racquets etc.
1:00pm, Wednesday 1 September: St John's "Safe Kids" first aid course for children. Contact Kathrin to book
12:30pm, Wednesday 8 September: Intriguing Dunedin Street Walk, green book 3, walk 1. Meet on The Esplanade, St Clair.
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.
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
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.
Photos on the SHEAF blog and Facebook page
From Stacey:
Given that Facebook are trialling some new (and somewhat scary) face-recognition software - where the Facebook database actually looks at your photos and tries to identify the people in them for you (gee thanks Facebook - not!), I thought I'd reassure people that when I choose photos to upload to the blog-site, I am deliberately choosing shots where people are really hard to identify - so lots of hats and the backs of heads, or people small and far away :) The photos that Nicola sends out in our newsletter are NOT automatically uploaded to the website - these are just for people in our group to have a look at. I choose photos for the Blog that give people an idea of the types of activities we do as home educators, but that retain our privacy. If at any time you are uncomfortable with the amount of information on the blog (or whatever) then please do give me an email!
cheers
Stacey
From Nicola:
Stacey has certainly brought up a very pertinent point here. Our family has always used photography as the most important medium for capturing and recording our home education activities, as we do for many other areas of our lives, but it's possible that not everyone will be comfortable with this.
With that in mind, there will be no identifying 'tags' placed on SHEAF's Facebook photos unless people choose to tag themselves and their children - in the interests of privacy I won't tag anyone else. And of course, please let me know if you'd prefer your child not to be photographed at all! Also, a reminder that SHEAF on Facebook is a closed group - this means that while members can see all content, non-member can only see the group description. Admins must approve requests for new members to join, so no unsavoury characters should have any access, ever!
Given that Facebook are trialling some new (and somewhat scary) face-recognition software - where the Facebook database actually looks at your photos and tries to identify the people in them for you (gee thanks Facebook - not!), I thought I'd reassure people that when I choose photos to upload to the blog-site, I am deliberately choosing shots where people are really hard to identify - so lots of hats and the backs of heads, or people small and far away :) The photos that Nicola sends out in our newsletter are NOT automatically uploaded to the website - these are just for people in our group to have a look at. I choose photos for the Blog that give people an idea of the types of activities we do as home educators, but that retain our privacy. If at any time you are uncomfortable with the amount of information on the blog (or whatever) then please do give me an email!
cheers
Stacey
From Nicola:
Stacey has certainly brought up a very pertinent point here. Our family has always used photography as the most important medium for capturing and recording our home education activities, as we do for many other areas of our lives, but it's possible that not everyone will be comfortable with this.
With that in mind, there will be no identifying 'tags' placed on SHEAF's Facebook photos unless people choose to tag themselves and their children - in the interests of privacy I won't tag anyone else. And of course, please let me know if you'd prefer your child not to be photographed at all! Also, a reminder that SHEAF on Facebook is a closed group - this means that while members can see all content, non-member can only see the group description. Admins must approve requests for new members to join, so no unsavoury characters should have any access, ever!
Trading Post - 9 August 2010
From Selina-Jane:
For Sale,
I am selling our (mostly) unused copy of Alpha Omega's Horizon's Pre-school set. It includes: Teachers Guides 1 & 2 , with some pencil markings in guide 1, up to lesson 21 (there are 180 lessons in all). Children's workbooks 1 & 2 with some of the lessons up to lesson 23 removed and used. Lesson Resource sheets (with adjustments made to the months of the year, so they reflect Kiwi seasons/events).
It does not include the multi-media resources listed on the website, as we are still enjoying them.
We would like $100.00.
Please feel free to contact me to ask any questions.
Blessings, Selina-Jane
For Sale,
I am selling our (mostly) unused copy of Alpha Omega's Horizon's Pre-school set. It includes: Teachers Guides 1 & 2 , with some pencil markings in guide 1, up to lesson 21 (there are 180 lessons in all). Children's workbooks 1 & 2 with some of the lessons up to lesson 23 removed and used. Lesson Resource sheets (with adjustments made to the months of the year, so they reflect Kiwi seasons/events).
It does not include the multi-media resources listed on the website, as we are still enjoying them.
We would like $100.00.
Please feel free to contact me to ask any questions.
Blessings, Selina-Jane
Space in Christchurch?
Ted (our famous tennis coach) and family will be spending the month of September in Christchurch, and are looking for somewhere they can park their caravan, and maybe use the bathroom facilities, in return for work that might need doing about the place - does anyone have any ideas or contacts for them? They'd need to be fairly close to town, as Ted's wife Tanya will be working at a restaurant in the central city. I hope I have all the details right here - if you can help, please email Ted
Congratulations Corner - 9 August 2010
Big congratulations to Ella! From Stacey:
Ella danced in her first Highland Dancing competitions over the weekend and came home with 2 ribbons!
Ella danced in her first Highland Dancing competitions over the weekend and came home with 2 ribbons!
Feel the Force workshop
The Feel the Force workshop on 18 August is now fully booked, so if you've booked places but can't make it, please let Nicola know so that she can squeeze a few more people in.
Tirohanga Camp
Stacey has very kindly been organising a camp for our group - hooray!
She's booked for the weekend of 12 - 13 November at Tirohanga, currently planning that we'd arrive on the Friday afternoon and stay till Saturday afternoon. The cost would be $10 per person/night, with preschoolers free, and we'd need a minimum of 20 paying people to make it viable, but that shouldn't be hard!
If you're interested, email Stacey and she can keep you up to date with the plans.
Here's the Tirohanga's site - it looks lovely, and I know some people who will be very pleased to see the indoor accommodation :-) http://www.tirohangacamp.co.nz/
She's booked for the weekend of 12 - 13 November at Tirohanga, currently planning that we'd arrive on the Friday afternoon and stay till Saturday afternoon. The cost would be $10 per person/night, with preschoolers free, and we'd need a minimum of 20 paying people to make it viable, but that shouldn't be hard!
If you're interested, email Stacey and she can keep you up to date with the plans.
Here's the Tirohanga's site - it looks lovely, and I know some people who will be very pleased to see the indoor accommodation :-) http://www.tirohangacamp.co.nz/
St John's Safe Kids course
From Kathrin:
As the time draws nearer for the Safe Kids course, would everyone who has booked please email me to confirm their booking? It has been so long, I'm afraid some of you will have forgotten!
As a reminder, the course will run on Wednesday Sept 1, at 1.00, cost is a gold-coin donation. And here is a link with details of what is offered in the course. http://www.stjohn.org.nz/safekids/
As the time draws nearer for the Safe Kids course, would everyone who has booked please email me to confirm their booking? It has been so long, I'm afraid some of you will have forgotten!
As a reminder, the course will run on Wednesday Sept 1, at 1.00, cost is a gold-coin donation. And here is a link with details of what is offered in the course. http://www.stjohn.org.nz/safekids/
Friday, August 6, 2010
Weekend Reading - NZ research on homeschooling
This week we delve into some homegrown research on home education. Research on home ed in NZ is pretty thin on the ground, with most information around having either come from the States, the UK or is largely based on someone's unexamined assumptions.
Today's reading is a recent PhD thesis from a student at Massey University. We did a little highlight of the research back in May, with a link to the newspaper article about the author, and now we can bring you the whole thesis itself!
Don't be scared - it's incredibly easy to read, and not weighed down with edu-speak, or other jargon. The author seeks to answer two questions; 1) Why do some NZ families choose to homeschool?; and 2) How do they go about it?
I'm only some of the way into it myself (having had to relinquish the computer last night to another family member!), but so far it has been fascinating.
Parental choice in education: Homeschooling in New Zealand, by Leo Roache
Today's reading is a recent PhD thesis from a student at Massey University. We did a little highlight of the research back in May, with a link to the newspaper article about the author, and now we can bring you the whole thesis itself!
Don't be scared - it's incredibly easy to read, and not weighed down with edu-speak, or other jargon. The author seeks to answer two questions; 1) Why do some NZ families choose to homeschool?; and 2) How do they go about it?
I'm only some of the way into it myself (having had to relinquish the computer last night to another family member!), but so far it has been fascinating.
Parental choice in education: Homeschooling in New Zealand, by Leo Roache
Sunday, August 1, 2010
Diary Dates
I've just added a few dates to the section at the end of this list, to fill our Wednesdays till the end of term. Once again, I'm waiting on confirmation from the Edgar Centre, but everything else is straightforward. The Intriguing Dunedin Street Walk scheduled for Sept 8 is apparently a very gentle stroll around St Clair - almost completely flat, and only about 1.5 hours, so we should be able to squeeze in a play at the park as well.
I've also added two more Big People's Night Out dates for this term, one on a Tuesday and one on a Thursday. Hopefully this will mean anyone who can't make a Wednesday evening might be able to join us for some coffee and cake (or banana crème brûlée, pear crumble, rhubarb cheesecake...).
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.
Term 3
12:30pm, Wednesday 4 August: Meet up at Claire's house, bring lunch and any games you'd like to play. Email Claire to let her know you're coming
12:30pm, Wednesday 11 August: Intriguing Dunedin Street Walk, blue book, walk 5. Meet outside of 103 Malvern St.
12:30pm, Wednesday 18 August: Meet up at Botanic Gardens playground (this may only be for an hour or so, as some of the group will be going to a museum workshop at 2:30pm).
2:30 - 4:00pm, Wednesday 18 August: Feel the Force workshop, Otago Museum, $3 per child. Contact Nicola to book
7:30pm, Tuesday 24 August: Big People's Night Out, Nova Cafe.
12:30pm, Wednesday 25 August: to be confirmed Meet up at the Edgar Centre, $2 per child. Bring lunch, marbles, scooters, bikes, racquets etc.
1:00pm, Wednesday 1 September: St John's "Safe Kids" first aid course for children. Contact Kathrin to book
12:30pm, Wednesday 8 September: Intriguing Dunedin Street Walk, green book 3, walk 1. Meet on The Esplanade, St Clair (see above)
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.
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
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
I've also added two more Big People's Night Out dates for this term, one on a Tuesday and one on a Thursday. Hopefully this will mean anyone who can't make a Wednesday evening might be able to join us for some coffee and cake (or banana crème brûlée, pear crumble, rhubarb cheesecake...).
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.
Term 3
12:30pm, Wednesday 4 August: Meet up at Claire's house, bring lunch and any games you'd like to play. Email Claire to let her know you're coming
12:30pm, Wednesday 11 August: Intriguing Dunedin Street Walk, blue book, walk 5. Meet outside of 103 Malvern St.
12:30pm, Wednesday 18 August: Meet up at Botanic Gardens playground (this may only be for an hour or so, as some of the group will be going to a museum workshop at 2:30pm).
2:30 - 4:00pm, Wednesday 18 August: Feel the Force workshop, Otago Museum, $3 per child. Contact Nicola to book
7:30pm, Tuesday 24 August: Big People's Night Out, Nova Cafe.
12:30pm, Wednesday 25 August: to be confirmed Meet up at the Edgar Centre, $2 per child. Bring lunch, marbles, scooters, bikes, racquets etc.
1:00pm, Wednesday 1 September: St John's "Safe Kids" first aid course for children. Contact Kathrin to book
12:30pm, Wednesday 8 September: Intriguing Dunedin Street Walk, green book 3, walk 1. Meet on The Esplanade, St Clair (see above)
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.
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
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
AP English and Literature Composition Class - Online
This might interest some:
(I had to look it up, so perhaps I'm not the only one who didn't know what AP stood for - it's "Advanced Placement" - meaning a College-level course offered at High School. An American and Canadian thing)
----------------------------------------------------------
AP ENGLISH LITERATURE AND COMPOSITION CLASS - ONLINE
----------------------------------------------------------
If you have a junior or senior interested in AP English this fall -- an online AP English Literature and Composition class has space available for 11th and 12th grade students.
The class is "AP authorized." The course syllabus has passed the College Board's AP audit process -- so students will be authorized to use the AP designation on their official high school transcript.
The course instructor has homeschooled for 12+ years, has taught honors and AP English classes to homeschooled high school students for many years, and has been very active in the homeschooling community - including serving as a parent-advisor for the Capital Area National Home School Honor Society since its inception in 2003.
Only one online AP English class is open, and the class size will be small, in order to provide individual attention to the class participants.
For more information about this class, the instructor, and other families' experiences, please visit http://teacherweb.com/USA/BlueTent/Thompson
If you have any questions, please email bluetentonline@gmail.com.
Thank you.
(I had to look it up, so perhaps I'm not the only one who didn't know what AP stood for - it's "Advanced Placement" - meaning a College-level course offered at High School. An American and Canadian thing)
----------------------------------------------------------
AP ENGLISH LITERATURE AND COMPOSITION CLASS - ONLINE
----------------------------------------------------------
If you have a junior or senior interested in AP English this fall -- an online AP English Literature and Composition class has space available for 11th and 12th grade students.
The class is "AP authorized." The course syllabus has passed the College Board's AP audit process -- so students will be authorized to use the AP designation on their official high school transcript.
The course instructor has homeschooled for 12+ years, has taught honors and AP English classes to homeschooled high school students for many years, and has been very active in the homeschooling community - including serving as a parent-advisor for the Capital Area National Home School Honor Society since its inception in 2003.
Only one online AP English class is open, and the class size will be small, in order to provide individual attention to the class participants.
For more information about this class, the instructor, and other families' experiences, please visit http://teacherweb.com/USA/BlueTent/Thompson
If you have any questions, please email bluetentonline@gmail.com.
Thank you.
Music and Movement group - preschoolers
From Jenney O;
Our church is organising a music and movement group on Tuesday mornings for preschool aged children. If anyone is interested, the first session will be held on Tuesday, September 7th at 9:30am followed by a morning tea. $2 per child, or $3 per family (if you have more than one child). The sessions will be held at The Lighthouse, 222 Main South Road, Green Island.
Any questions, please do not hesitate to call me
Jenney
Our church is organising a music and movement group on Tuesday mornings for preschool aged children. If anyone is interested, the first session will be held on Tuesday, September 7th at 9:30am followed by a morning tea. $2 per child, or $3 per family (if you have more than one child). The sessions will be held at The Lighthouse, 222 Main South Road, Green Island.
Any questions, please do not hesitate to call me
Jenney
Orokonui Sanctuary trip
This trip is organised by DCHE, but they have invited all Dunedin home edders:
Hi Everyone,
Julie has asked me to pass on further information about the trip she is planning to the bird sanctuary.
She tells me that she has gone and looked over the sanctuary, and that it is magnificent, and well worth a visit. She has talked to the education team at the facility and is excited about what they will be offering us.
We have been tremendously blessed with the Sanctuary offering us an extremely discounted price for entrance ($5 per child, with adults free), which Julie has worked to gain for us. You are welcome to invite other family members (such as Grandparents) to join us for the trip, but due to the facilities great generosity to us as a group, we would ask that extra adults would make a donation to the facility if they attend.
Whilst the Sanctuary is confident that families with children in prams will be able to move freely over the site, Julie tells me that people need to be aware that there are some very steep sections, and steps in places, which could make prams quite a challenge. However, she feels that the parts that are accessible are well worth the visit in themselves.
The date of the trip is tentatively planned as September 24th (the last day of the term), however this is dependant on the nesting times of the birds, as during certain times sections of the facility will be closed to the public. A date earlier in Sept may be necessary.
Any who are interested can either text Julie (no phone calls on cell phone please) or ring her on home phone. Would you please also tell her the name and ages of the children attending, as it will assist in the organisation of the trip.
Hi Everyone,
Julie has asked me to pass on further information about the trip she is planning to the bird sanctuary.
She tells me that she has gone and looked over the sanctuary, and that it is magnificent, and well worth a visit. She has talked to the education team at the facility and is excited about what they will be offering us.
We have been tremendously blessed with the Sanctuary offering us an extremely discounted price for entrance ($5 per child, with adults free), which Julie has worked to gain for us. You are welcome to invite other family members (such as Grandparents) to join us for the trip, but due to the facilities great generosity to us as a group, we would ask that extra adults would make a donation to the facility if they attend.
Whilst the Sanctuary is confident that families with children in prams will be able to move freely over the site, Julie tells me that people need to be aware that there are some very steep sections, and steps in places, which could make prams quite a challenge. However, she feels that the parts that are accessible are well worth the visit in themselves.
The date of the trip is tentatively planned as September 24th (the last day of the term), however this is dependant on the nesting times of the birds, as during certain times sections of the facility will be closed to the public. A date earlier in Sept may be necessary.
Any who are interested can either text Julie (no phone calls on cell phone please) or ring her on home phone. Would you please also tell her the name and ages of the children attending, as it will assist in the organisation of the trip.
Quarantine Island workdays
Quarantine Island have work days about once a month, where you can get a boat out to the island, spend the morning planting trees or whatever, have a potluck lunch and spend the afternoon sifting around the island. Just the sort of thing SHEAFies might be into :) Here's some info for anyone who has a hankering for an island adventure...
Quarantine Island workdays
The St Martin Island Community welcomes you to share this island in Otago Harbour.
Kamau Taurua was first used by the tangata whenua as a place to set nets, then the island was Otago's quarantine station from 1863-1914.
Now, and for over 50 years, the St Martin Island Community are guardians of the Island. Its members promote a rich and practical spiritual dimension to life there and in the wider community.
The island is a public recreation reserve and visitors are welcome. It is managed jointly by the Community and the Department of Conservation.
There are regular volunteer workdays on the Island, usually on the morning of the last Saturday in the month. On these days boat transport is provided by the Community. For 2010 the dates are below and a welcoming flyer is on their website.
http://www.theisland.org.nz/Volunteers%20on%20Quarantine%20Island.pdf
Sun 29 Aug
Sat 25 Sept
Sat 30 Oct
For more information, see their website
http://www.theisland.org.nz/index.html
Quarantine Island workdays
The St Martin Island Community welcomes you to share this island in Otago Harbour.
Kamau Taurua was first used by the tangata whenua as a place to set nets, then the island was Otago's quarantine station from 1863-1914.
Now, and for over 50 years, the St Martin Island Community are guardians of the Island. Its members promote a rich and practical spiritual dimension to life there and in the wider community.
The island is a public recreation reserve and visitors are welcome. It is managed jointly by the Community and the Department of Conservation.
There are regular volunteer workdays on the Island, usually on the morning of the last Saturday in the month. On these days boat transport is provided by the Community. For 2010 the dates are below and a welcoming flyer is on their website.
http://www.theisland.org.nz/Volunteers%20on%20Quarantine%20Island.pdf
Sun 29 Aug
Sat 25 Sept
Sat 30 Oct
For more information, see their website
http://www.theisland.org.nz/index.html
Single Parents' Homeschooling Support Group
Just received this notice through the NCHENZ email list, to pass along the info chains :)
Hi single parent homeschoolers and supporters,
A yahoo group has been set up to support single parents who are home educating. Thanks to Tarnya Burge who has done this on behalf of NCHENZ.
To join the group click the yahoo group link below and then join the email group there.
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/single_parent_homeschool_NZ/
http://www.singleparent.co.nz/
Initially you will need to contact Tarnya and she will post for you but we plan to set up a forum so that people can post directly. Please pass this information on as widely as possible.
Regards,
Penny Bilton
Cocordinator NCHENZ
Hi single parent homeschoolers and supporters,
A yahoo group has been set up to support single parents who are home educating. Thanks to Tarnya Burge who has done this on behalf of NCHENZ.
To join the group click the yahoo group link below and then join the email group there.
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/single_parent_homeschool_NZ/
http://www.singleparent.co.nz/
Initially you will need to contact Tarnya and she will post for you but we plan to set up a forum so that people can post directly. Please pass this information on as widely as possible.
Regards,
Penny Bilton
Cocordinator NCHENZ
Best Bones Forever!
Thanks to Donna for sharing this link about bones activities. I had a bit of trouble accessing it before, but was able to view it through Google's cache when I did a search. Hopefully the site is back up very soon, because it looks great! Donna says it shows which activities are good for building strong bones, i.e. tennis, jumping rope, running , walking etc., while things like swimming and biking are not so beneficial for bone strength.
I would like to share this web page with you:
http://www.bestbonesforever.gov/whatsbest/physical_activity/activities.cfm
Cheers
Donna
I would like to share this web page with you:
http://www.bestbonesforever.gov/whatsbest/physical_activity/activities.cfm
Cheers
Donna
Another great knitting resource
From Rachel:
Being an avid knitter myself, the BEST website for patterns/ideas etc is www.ravelry.com You need to join and wait a few days to be set up, but then you have access to hundreds of thousands of patterns, both free and some with small charges that you can download. You can search under patterns, yarns or people and even choose a pattern then look at how everyone else has knitted it – variations of yarns and the pattern are endless. You set up your own account and can save favourites to your profile, if you buy or download patterns, they automatically save to your profile, you can save people as your friends, so that you can go back and check out what they are knitting and you can also join groups around the world that interest you – there are many NZ knitting groups, even a few based in Dunedin! Once you have finished something, you can upload the photos, and put all the details in – like yarn, needles, your notes on the pattern and then it is saved not only as a help to other knitters looking at the pattern, but a fantastic record of what you have knitted and when.
I have been a member for 2 years and I am still finding more ways to use the site.
Best of all, its FREE to join!
Cheers,
Rachel
Being an avid knitter myself, the BEST website for patterns/ideas etc is www.ravelry.com You need to join and wait a few days to be set up, but then you have access to hundreds of thousands of patterns, both free and some with small charges that you can download. You can search under patterns, yarns or people and even choose a pattern then look at how everyone else has knitted it – variations of yarns and the pattern are endless. You set up your own account and can save favourites to your profile, if you buy or download patterns, they automatically save to your profile, you can save people as your friends, so that you can go back and check out what they are knitting and you can also join groups around the world that interest you – there are many NZ knitting groups, even a few based in Dunedin! Once you have finished something, you can upload the photos, and put all the details in – like yarn, needles, your notes on the pattern and then it is saved not only as a help to other knitters looking at the pattern, but a fantastic record of what you have knitted and when.
I have been a member for 2 years and I am still finding more ways to use the site.
Best of all, its FREE to join!
Cheers,
Rachel
"Chain Story" start-up
From Palin:
Hi, this is Palin. I was thinking of starting a chain story with homeschool kids. Here's how it would work. I will write a chapter or section of a story then I will e-mail it to someone else who will write the next section. When they are done they will e-mail it along to the next person until everyone has had a chance. Then hopefully it will be published in the homeschool newsletter. There are no rules or restrictions and all kids can participate no matter what age and each person can take the story in whatever direction they want. If you're interested in participating then please e-mail me and I'll put together a random list and e-mail you when we've started. If you have any questions then please e-mail me.
See your SHEAF newsletter for Palin's email address
Hi, this is Palin. I was thinking of starting a chain story with homeschool kids. Here's how it would work. I will write a chapter or section of a story then I will e-mail it to someone else who will write the next section. When they are done they will e-mail it along to the next person until everyone has had a chance. Then hopefully it will be published in the homeschool newsletter. There are no rules or restrictions and all kids can participate no matter what age and each person can take the story in whatever direction they want. If you're interested in participating then please e-mail me and I'll put together a random list and e-mail you when we've started. If you have any questions then please e-mail me.
See your SHEAF newsletter for Palin's email address
Newspapers in Education
Heather has organised a group subscription to the Newspapers in Education programme. These are great little newspapers published each week during term and cost 50c per copy. If anyone would like to receive them regularly (probably by meeting Heather at one of our weekly activities, or possibly picking your copy up from her house), email Heather.
For more information about NIE, check http://www.nieonline.co.nz/
For more information about NIE, check http://www.nieonline.co.nz/
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