New Review!!! Raising Real Men!

Raising Real Men:  Surviving, Teaching, and Appreciating Boys

by Hal and Melanie Young

Retail Price: $15

I came across this book one day, I don't even remember how, but I just HAD to have a copy.  So I asked for a review copy and was fortunate to receive one.  (Initially they told me it was only for "big time" bloggers.  Well, I hardly qualify for that, but I also told them I have SIX boys, so they gave in!  LOL)

Anyway, the Young family is a lot like a certain other family I know with six boys, and two girls.  Namely mine!  (Actually I see myself as the mother of 14 because, in my mind, boys count double!  LOL  Well, mine do anyway.)  If you have even one boy, you know they can be a handful.  Sure, there are some quiet, studious, thoughtful boys, but they tend to be the exception, don't they? 

To be fair, two of mine are also fairly quiet, but they still like to do wild stuff like ollie off the porch.  This basically means you run out the front door, jump onto a skateboard, ride off the porch, land back on the board on the sidewalk, and keep on going.  (Before you freak out and call Social Services, this is my 18 year old doing this.  And, no, I did NOT know about it until I saw the picture!)

Well, anyway, raising boys is kinda LIKE doing an ollie off the porch.  You gotta start off running, take a leap, and then keep on going even after you've safely landed, only to do it all over again.  That's what it feels like anyway.  Some days I don't land on the board, some days I'm afraid to take that leap, and some days I can't even get up and running!  But somehow I still manage to keep on going.

This is one of those books I could have written myself.  I agree with just about everything in it.  The Youngs are very balanced people.  They don't seem to take one extreme side of any issue.  Take gun play, for example.  They don't outlaw it in their homes, yet they have made very specific rules about how the boys are to play.  Rules like "no shooting other people" teach them not only gun safety, but also the spiritual lesson about "avoiding the appearance of evil."

The Youngs also discuss many other areas of "controversy," such as homeschooling, courtship, and discipline.  But no matter what the topic, they keep in mind that boys are simply men who haven't grown up.  (I know a few of those in their 40s!)  There is a tendency in our culture to make boys into sort of a boy/girl hybrid.  They are told to sit all "nicey, nicey," and are drugged when they don't.  (Yes, some kids really do have ADHD, but many who don't, I truly believe, are drugged just to make life easier for their parents and teachers.  And to say the thought of drugging my own boys has not crossed my mind, would be a lie!)

The book is laid out so that the first half attempts to explain male behavior.  I say attempts only because, while they do an excellent job explaining all about boys and their ways, us women folk will never quite understand them completely.  I imagine there are times when Melanie is still left scratching her head at some of the things her boys do.  (And dare I say at some of the things Hal does?  LOL)  Okay, to be fair, I'm sure Hal and the boys sometimes scratch their heads at some of the things Melanie and the girls do! :)

The second half of the book basically gives instruction on how to raise these wild, untamed creatures of the male species.  From what they share about their older boys, they have done a fantastic job!  (Would YOU send your 17 year old off to China as a tour guide?  You'd have to be pretty confident in the young man's maturity level, would you not?)

I don't want to tell you too much and give the whole book away, but I do want to tell you about one piece of advice that I have taken to heart.  Let the YOUNGEST child who is able do the job.  The absolute biggest mistake we've made is to rely on our two oldest boys to do most of the work.  Once they were trained it was hard to let the third and fourth take over as it meant re-training.  Who wants to do that?  Well, YOU do if you have more than one or two, or you will find that the others tend to get lazy and even resentful when you DO ask them to do something.  That's how it is around here anyway.  So I have been really on the younger kids to pull their weight around here.  When a job is to be done I now consider the youngest first.  Absolutely great advice.

I really enjoyed the book.  The family reminds me so much of my own, except somehow they seem to have pulled it off so much better than we do!  If you have a boy, I would highly recommend this book.  I could write so much more, but right now I have to go ollie off the porch! 

****************************************************
Check out the Raising Real Men Facebook page here.

Find out how to get your own copy here.

Check out the Table of Contents. Sample Chapter: Racing to Win

ISBN: 978-0-9841443-0-3
256 pages. 6×9 trade paperback.

New Review and Contest!!! Cooper and Me and the Military

I recently received the latest Cooper and Me book, Cooper and Me and the Military.  This is the third book I have read in the series.  You can read my original review of Cooper and Me here, or my review of Cooper and Me and the Winter Adventure here.   

So far I have enjoyed these books, and so have my children.  They have been thrilled to read them and keep asking which one they are getting next!  I love that the books are actually written and illustrated by a child, Alexa Peters, who was only 11 years old when the first book was written in 2010.  My only concern about this book is that it is about two children whose mother and father both serve in the military.  I just found it sad that the children had to live with their grandparents while both parents were deployed.  It does allow children to see what a sacrifice must be made to keep our country safe. 

The story is all about a dog named Trooper who is friends with Cooper.  Trooper is adopted by Gracie and Joe and their parents, who are serving in the military.  According to the publisher, each Cooper and Me story teaches an important Life Lesson and features interactive materials at the back of the book to drive the message home.  Included are activities that help children name and process their own feelings about what they've read.  In this book, the children learn that their parents love them, even though they are far from home.  

You can learn more about this book and the Cooper and Me series by clicking on these links:

Website: http://www.cooperandme.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Cooper-and-Me-Inc/214695101924101

Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/cooper_and_me

Now for the contest rules!  Please read them CAREFULLY as I don't seem to be explaining them well enough.  LOL  

Leave a comment.  Tell me who you'd like to honor for serving in the military.  Want more entries?  Here are five more ways you can enter, for a total of six ways to enter! :)

Take my poll in the sidebar, and leave AN ADDITIONAL comment HERE ON THIS POST letting me know you did. (If you've already taken the poll, just let me know in a comment, and I will still count it as an additional entry.)

Follow me on facebook, and leave AN ADDITIONAL comment HERE ON THIS POST. (If you already follow, just leave an additional comment HERE ON THIS POST to let me know.)

Follow me on Twitter, and leave AN ADDITIONAL comment HERE ON THIS POST. (If you already follow, just leave an additional comment HERE ON THIS POST to let me know.)

Follow me with Google Friend Connect,and leave AN ADDITIONAL comment HERE ON THIS POST. (If you already follow, just leave an additional comment HERE ON THIS POST to let me know.)

Subscribe to my blog via Feedburner, and leave AN ADDITIONAL comment HERE ON THIS POST. . (See sidebar. If you already subscribe, just leave an additional comment HERE ON THIS POST to let me know.)

The rules: You must be 13 years old or older to enter and not live in The Crazy House. :) Please leave your e-mail address or some other way I can contact you if you win, or I'll have to draw another winner. MAKE SURE YOU LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ADDITIONAL ENTRY for up to six entries per person. More than one person may enter per household if they are at least 13 years old. That's about it. :)

The contest will close at 11:59 p.m. Eastern time on Sunday, March 4, 2012. The winner will be chosen on Monday, March 5, 2012 or sometime soon after.

 “Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Hi Tech Kids!

Psst... Please take my poll in the sidebar!  Thanks!!!  :)

The other day my youngest son, Baber, who is eight, was on the laptop when he still had school and chores to do, so I took it away from him.  The next thing I knew I found him sitting on the stairs with his portable DVD player!  I confiscated that, and told him to get going on his list.  He reluctantly gave it to me, and I took it and hid it.

I started going about my business when I saw him walking around, calculator in hand.  Really?  Is the kid that desperate to manipulate images on a screen?  So then I had to take away the calculator!  I finally realized that if I wasn't working along side him every step of the way he wasn't going to do anything he was supposed to be doing.  It was either that or hide all the digital watches!

New Review, Contest, and a Special Offer! Cooper and Me and the Winter Adventure :)

I recently reviewed a sweet little book called Cooper and Me.  I was especially impressed because it was co-written by an 11 year-old, Alexa Peters, along with her mother, Monique.  Alexa even drew the illustrations!  I received the book free as part of the propeller blogger program.  So, when propeller contacted me to review another Cooper and Me book, I was happy to do so!  


In Cooper and Me and the Winter Adventure, Cooper and his friend Bella go off on an adventure in the snow, and find themselves lost.  Cooper and Bella must then howl until another friend, Trooper, hears them and barks back.  The two lost dogs follow the sound of Trooper's barking to get back home.  This book would be a great way to teach your child what to do if he or she was ever lost.  One of my daughters wandered off once, and I was so glad she knew what to do.  The book retails for $12.99.  

Special Note:  $1 of every Winter Adventure book sold will go to advance research and treatment of pancreatic cancer, via the Lustgarten Foundation. (http://www.lustgarten.org/)

Also, our friends at Cooper and Me will be offering an EXCLUSIVE DEAL FOR MY BLOG READERS:  Make any purchase of $25 or more at CooperandMe.com and get FREE SHIPPING now through December 15. 

YOU MUST USE THIS CODE @ Check Out:  COOPERBLOG

For more information check out these links:

Website: http://www.cooperandme.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Cooper-and-Me-Inc/214695101924101

Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/cooper_and_me

The contest:

Now for the giveaway! Would you like to get a free copy of Cooper and Me and the Winter Adventure? If so, just leave me a comment telling me who you'd read it with. ;) You can leave a comment either here or on my facebook page. For additional entries: 

Follow me on facebook.  (If you already follow, just leave a separate comment to let me know.)

Follow me on Twitter.  (If you already follow, just leave a separate comment to let me know.)

Follow me with Google Friend Connect. (See sidebar. If you already follow, just leave a separate comment to let me know.)

Subscribe to my blog via Feedburner. (See sidebar. If you already subscribe, just leave a separate comment to let me know.)

The rules: You must be 13 years old or older to enter and not live in my house. :) Please leave your e-mail address or some other way I can contact you if you win. MAKE SURE YOU LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ADDITIONAL ENTRY for up to five entries per person. More than one person may enter per household if they are at least 13 years old. That's about it. :)

The contest will close at 11:59 p.m. Eastern time on Friday, December 23, 2011. The winner will be chosen on Monday, December 26, 2011 or sometime soon after.
 
"Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or servicesmentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255:  
"Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Total Transformation Review (Part 2)

Okay, I know a lot of people have been very anxious to hear all about my experiences with the Total Transformation program.  Well, I am still very much working through the program.  Initially, my hope was to listen to one CD a week, implement what I learned, and blog about it.  However, it's not that simple.  I have been listening to the CDs, and they are so full of information that I cannot possibly digest everything just listening to the CD once.  Then there are the workbook pages to fill out, then there is LIFE!  LOL

Let me start out by saying that I had heard about this program for years before I got a chance to try it.  I always wondered if it really was as great as it sounded.  I even got online and tried to find reviews of it, but wasn't having much luck.  I found a few positive ones, but they seemed to be affiliates.  I found one negative review, one, and it was by a guy who never even had used or even seen it!  I was just dying to know what it was all about, but it seemed to be the world's best kept secret.  (Which isn't actually true, you can even get a free parenting newsletter.)

I really honestly thought that Total Transformation was just some money making scam.  Then I got the program and watched the DVD.  I might have heard it before, but I didn't remember that the creator of the program, James Lehman, was actually a very troubled youth.  He was a heroin addict and even served prison time.  So, I guess this guy knew something about troubled kids.  (Sadly, I also learned that James Lehman passed away last year.)  He also worked for years as a Childhood Behavioral Therapist.

I liked James Lehman and the program right away.  Yes, he does take more of a tough love approach than I am used to using.  I am not tough.  At all.  I am a wimp.  Or was.  LOL  I'm learning.  Here's just one thing I've learned.  I'm a negotiator.  Here's a real life example:  I had to run a few errands and told my youngest son, Baber, that if he had his whole list done when I got home he could have a reward.  (I actually forgot now what it was.  LOL)  Anyway, I got home and it wasn't done.  Old Me would have renegotiated and told him he could still get the reward if he did it in "x" amount of minutes.  New Me simply told him that he didn't do what I'd asked and wouldn't get the reward. Period.  He tried to renegotiate, but I held my ground.  If I keep it up, he'll soon know that I say what I mean, and mean what I say.  Simple, perhaps obvious, but I was always negotiating and renegotiating.  Yes, things were getting done, but not when they needed to be done, and every one of my kids seems to have a future in law.

Well, I'm getting ahead of myself, so let me back up a bit.  I've watched the DVD, listened to the first three CDs, did the workbook pages that go along with the first three CDs, and listened to the Bonus CD.  The program starts out by explaining the "whys" of your child's behavior.  Then the program goes on to explain how different parents respond to bad behavior.  I pretty much knew where I was having trouble, I knew I was a wimp. Then, and here's the part I like, James Lehman explains exactly how to change wrong parenting patterns which will, in turn, change wrong patterns of behavior in children.  That's the plan, anyway!  So far I have taken so few baby steps, I can't say I've had a total transformation with any of them, but I do think I am on my way.

I will share just one more thing I learned.  I have always tried to get inside my kids' heads when they did something wrong, especially if it was something, well, shall we say, uh, stupid?  Yeah, my kids do some things that are really just kinda dumb, and I am left scratching my head.  So, I ask them why.  Why? Why? Why do they do these things?  Well, James Lehman doesn't recommend asking why.  When you ask a child "why" when he does something that is clearly wrong, and I mean when you know that your child knows it was wrong before he even did it, you are actually implying that there is a reasonable explanation.  Otherwise, why would you ask for one?  He explains it much better than I do, but it made total sense to me.  Of course!  There is no reason "why" they did what they did other than they chose to break the rule.  That is all you need to know.  If you are doing the program you will have a pre-determined consequence for breaking the rule.  If you follow through with that you won't need to ask why, because if you are consistent, the behavior will end!  (Okay, not making a promise here, but stating a general principle.)

I do have to share one more thing I learned.  It was kinda eye-opening.  Since listening to this program, I have had a few incidences with the kids.  I've actually figured out that a couple of my more difficult children (Did I just say that? LOL) naturally have been using these very techniques on me!  Here's one of them: When someone starts to argue, walk away. My son did this very thing the other day.  I was upset about something and started to lecture him.  He turned and walked out of the room and into the basement.  What?! You know, it worked!  The discussion stopped.  I totally felt defeated, and though I don't know for sure, I can only guess that he felt quite in control of the situation.  Now, just to be the one to walk away first.  LOL

My youngest son likes to walk away too, but not until making his demand.  He says it like he means it, walks away, and just expects it to happen.  The other day I was getting ready to give him peas with dinner.  He looked at me and calmly and firmly told me, "I don't want peas."  Then he walked away with authority.  I actually had to talk myself into making him eat the peas because he spoke with such determination and conviction.  Then, when I gave him his dinner he said very calmly, and again, with determination and conviction, "I said I don't want peas."  Again, I had to take a deep breath and talk myself into giving him the peas!  (I tend to avoid confrontations, can you tell?)  In both of these cases, I kinda had to chuckle to myself.  I mean, maybe I don't need James Lehman; I could learn from these kids!

Anyway, like I said earlier, I am not done with the program.  I am really just still taking it all in.  I have realized that the name of the program refers a whole lot more to me, than to my children.  I do have a lot of bad parenting habits that I need to break, or I could say, that need a Total Transformation.  It won't happen overnight.  It's not magic.  I can't guarantee yet that it works, but I am sure liking what I see so far.  The few things I have been able to implement have seemed to work.  I'm pretty much already a believer.

Is the program really anything new?  No, I imagine that most of this info is really just common sense that could be gleaned elsewhere.  Why buy it then?  Well, it's just so well put together.  All the information is organized for you to work through, step by step.  There are the CDs, the workbook exercises, and there's even additional support you can get with the free newsletter and the parenting hotline.  (Once you get the program you can, for an additional fee, get access to a parenting hotline that you can call to get help in any situation.)

Are you interested yet?  Here is a link to the program:

Child Discipline Methods – http://www.thetotaltransformation.com/

Here's where you can get the free parenting newsletter:

http://www.empoweringparents.com/parenting-newsletter.php

I needed to get this review up today because I was asked to have it done by December 1.  However, I will be continuing to use the program and, God willing, will continue to blog about my progress!!!  I hope you'll stay tuned!

"Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."


Happy Parenting!!!

New Review and Giveaway! Cooper and Me!

Contest Closed.

A while back I got a cute little book called Cooper and Me from the good folks at propeller.  I read it, put it aside, then forgot about it!  LOL  So, here I am sheepishly posting the "better late than never" review.  ;) 

This is a neat book because the illustrator and co-author is a child!  Check out the press release, and then read my thoughts.  :)

About Cooper and Me:


Cooper and Me was illustrated by 11-year-old Alexa Peters and co-written with her mother, Monique Peters. The idea was inspired by Alexa's own experiences on her first day of school. A talented young artist and writer, Alexa wanted to give back to others in a meaningful way through her art. Starting at a very young age, Alexa created illustrated stories about her daily experiences, and from the pages of her sketchbooks came the idea for her first book, Cooper and Me.

Through rhythmic verses, Cooper and Me tells the story of a young girl who is nervous as her first day of school approaches. She is frightened about leaving home and doesn't want to go without her best friend, her dog Cooper. Fortunately her mother finds the perfect solution to help the little girl overcome her fears – a small replica of her beloved pet she can take to school with her. In Cooper and Me, the story of a child’s fears about starting school has evolved into a timeless tale about overcoming separation anxiety and trying new things – basic emotions all people experience throughout their lives – but this time, written by a child, for children.

The story behind Cooper and Me also offers an inspiring example of families working together to help others. In addition to helping young children gain emotional resilience and confidence through their books, Alexa and mom Monique wanted to go beyond that to help less fortunate kids. Their search for an organization to which they could donate a portion of the proceeds from the Cooper and Me book led to a charitable alliance with the Happy Hearts Fund, founded and run by Petra Nemcova, the supermodel who was directly affected by the tsunami in Thailand. Happy Hearts improves children’s lives through education and sustainable programs in natural disaster areas.

My thoughts:

I found this to be an adorable book.  Admittedly, I am a homeschool mom, so the whole "first day of school" aspect of the book didn't apply to my family.  I mean, we school at home and our dog is right here with us!  LOL  However, we still have had first days at Sunday school, co-op, etc.  So, while I know most of my readers are also homeschoolers, I can still recommend this book.  I mean, what a cool thing that it's written by a little girl!  Even if you don't send your child to kindergarten, you can still enjoy the book and talk to your child about living out your dreams.  Maybe your child wants to write or illustrate books.  Maybe they have other dreams.  Maybe they have no dreams, and this will inspire them to do something more exciting than reach the next level of the latest video game.  LOL

Wanna find out more?  Check out the link below.

Website: http://http://www.cooperandme.com/

And now for the giveaway!  Would you like to win your own copy of Cooper and Me?  If so, just leave me a comment telling me who you'd read it to.  ;)  You can leave a comment either here or on my facebook page.  For additional entries: 

Follow me on facebook.

Follow me on Twitter.

Follow me with Google Friend Connect. (See sidebar.)

Subscribe to my blog via Feedburner. (See sidebar.)

The rules: You must be 13 years old or older to enter and not live in my house. :) Please leave your e-mail address or some other way I can contact you if you win. MAKE SURE YOU LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ADDITIONAL ENTRY for up to five entries per person. More than one person may enter per household if they are at least 13 years old. That's about it. :)

The contest will close at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, December 4, 2011. The winner will be chosen on Monday, December 5, 2011 or sometime soon after.

"Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255:  "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."



Happy Reading!!! :)

So... I've started the Total Transformation! (Part 1)

I just might be the latest skeptic turned convert!  So far I am liking what I see/hear.  Can't say I've done anything to really utilize the program, but I am learning.  I told a friend at church yesterday that if this program really works like they say it will, I will be out spreading the word like an evangelist.  We shall see! 

I have watched the Jump Start DVD and have listened to most of the first audio CD.  I've also checked out the first lesson in the workbook.  My biggest trouble is that I have to try to "sneak" around to listen to the CDs so that my kids don't catch on to my little secret.  LOL 

The first week is really mostly all about understanding the "why" behind your child's behavior issues.  I know it's supposed to be serious, but I actually have to say I had a few giggles over how well they know my children without having even met them!  They sure have them pegged.  One of my kids seems to have just about every issue they talk about.  I joked to Sane Man that we should pass out a copy of the CD to everyone who meets him.  LOL

I seriously am very pleasantly surprised so far.  I really thought it was a gimmick and wouldn't work.  Now, I still can't say it works, as I haven't implemented it yet, but it is no gimmick.  The program is very well thought out and organized.  And it is readily apparent when you look at it that it's going to take some work on the part of the parent(s).  Honestly, I think if I were the one marketing the program, I would do it differently.  Every time I heard the infomercial it sounded too good to be true, so I always assumed it was.  I think it might have actually been more believable to me had it been more obvious that it wasn't a quick fix, but a tough but workable program that works. 

I'm glad to be doing this for a review because it will keep me more on track with it.  My plan is to try to blog each week after listening to each CD.  I'm hoping to get to the second one today before the kids get up.  It always gets so crazy, busy, and LOUD around here that it's really difficult to find a few moments of peace to actually listen.  Perhaps this will change once I finish the program.  :)

Here is a link to the program:

Child Discipline Methods – http://www.thetotaltransformation.com/

Here's where you can get a free parenting newsletter:

http://www.empoweringparents.com/parenting-newsletter.php

I hope you follow along with my progress as I work through this.  Since I have eight kids (and yes, technically two of them are now "adults" but...) I'm not going to try to focus on all of them.  It would be too overwhelming for me.  My idea is to pretty much focus on one of them and then as I get used to it, my hope is that it will just come naturally to use the ideas with the others.  Again, we shall see. :)

New Review and Giveaway! Carlito C. Caterpillar's Math House Games

Contest Closed.

I just got another package from propeller which contained Carlito C. Caterpillar's Math House Games.  I honestly didn't even know what I was getting.  I half expected an online game, or perhaps a board game.  It was neither.  This is several cards on a ring with different games on each card.  A description from the company follows, but first I had to share a little classic Crazy Mom funny.  One of the games is about matching.  It starts out by telling you to seperate some pairs of matched socks.  Okay, that's hilarious!  Matched socks!  Here?  At my house?  I was just glad none of the games involved clean underwear!

Okay, moving forward...  ;)  Here's what the makers of this product have to say:

Carlito the Catepillar's Math House Games is based on a 20 step sensory math teaching system, which teaches kids math in a fun way! Early childhood development professionals note that young children are most open to learning when they play. Thus, they have created activities and games for parents to play with their children. The material is presented in 3 stages, with a total of 20 steps and 2 games in each step covering quantity, numeration, and operations.

Now, here's a letter to moms from the creator:

Dear Mom,

Most parents know the importance of math but many are unsure of how they can help their young children learn the fundamentals of math. There are so many questions. "How early should I start? What does my child need to learn? What concepts are most important? What do I do if my child has more trouble than other kids their age?" Often times the answers to these questions are not clear or consistent.


The c3pla Sensory Math Teaching System was created by Domenico Marcario, M.S., a retired math teacher and loving grandfather, to answer those questions. This system utilizes the natural way children learn to teach them math skills. We have built the Carlito C. Caterpiller's Math House GamesTM from this system and are excited to offer you a chance to receive a copy of the Games Pack to review and a copy to offer as a gift to one of your readers. The Game Pack is presented in 3 stages, with a total of 20 steps and 2 games in each step covering the math skills of quantity, numeration, and operations.


You are a mom and understand the importance of learning. We value your feedback about the product. We want to help kids learn math and we want to help parents to have the resources they need to make that happen. Thank you for your consideration of the Carlito C. Caterpiller's Math House GamesTM.


Sincerly,

Bill Haljun
Co-Founder, Director of Creative Development

So now you might be wonder what I thought of the games.  (Well, I hope you do!)  Anyway, first of all, my youngest is now eight (sniff, sniff) so he is beyond these games, so I really wasn't able to actually use these games with any of my kids.  I did do some of these kinds of things with my kids just sort of naturally.  Well, I did with the older ones, because, well, I wasn't quite so overwhelmed with life at the time.  I have often thought that I wish I could have done more with the younger kids.  I admit that I did far less with them just due to the fact that I was also teaching their older siblings, and cooking, cleaning, and doing laundry for ten.  Soooo..... yeah, I did struggle to find time to work with them doing fun little things as the day went on. 

Perhaps having something like Carlito C. Caterpillars games could have helped.  It's all planned out sequentially.  (And if you know me, you know I am totally sequential.)  Being honest, I doubt even with this product I could have squeezed in a whole lot more time out of my schedule, but I could have put an older child in charge of playing these games with the younger kids. 

So, I have pondered this, and here is what I have come up with.  I think most parents with just one or two small kids probably wouldn't need something like this necessarily.  However, I know a lot of parents like to get started "schooling" at the preschool level because, let's face it, it is a huge undertaking to homeschool a child.  So, for the parent who is either very structured, or just feels he or she needs something tangible to use for early math, this is great.  My philosophy is to hold off on things like worksheets as long as possible becasue most kids, especially boys, just aren't ready for it.  However, what kid wouldn't love to spend time playing games with Mom or a big brother or sister?

I think Carlito C. Caterpillar's Math House Games is also be a great idea for a preschool class or co-op.  I mean, it is all logical and thought out, and even though my kids just did fine as we did it my way (all of them, even the younger ones who didn't get my full attention) I know there are folks out there who love things like this.   As always, my suggestion is that you check it out for yourself. 

Website: http://www.c3pla.com/products.shtml

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Carlito-C-Caterpillars-MathHouseTM-Games/190370157687889

How would you like to win one of these games?  It's easy!  All you have to do is leave a comment either here on my blog, or, if for some reason that doesn't work, leave it on my facebook page.  (Under the contest post, please or I might miss it.)  I have had several people tell me they tried to comment, but couldn't, plus I know some others actually read my posts via facebook, so I am trying out this option.  Please don't comment in both places as I am trying to keep it fair.  ;)

For each of the following you can gain one addtional entry.  You must let me know either here or on facebook under the contest post with a seperate comment for each thing that you do for a total of five possible entries. 

Like me on facebook.
Follow me on Twitter.
Become a Google Friend Connect friend.  (See sidebar.)
Subscribe to my posts via Feedburner.  (See sidebar.)

NOTE!!!  I have changed up the rules a bit!  For this contest you must be at least 13 years old, and not a member of my immediate family to enter.  More than one person per household may enter, but please do not enter as an individual more than the five possible entries.  Make sure you leave me a way to get ahold of you if you win!!!  THANKS!!! 

The contest will end at 11:59 p.m. Sunday, October 23, 2011.  I will draw and contact the winner sometime on Monday, October 24, 2011. 

“Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it

on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally
and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance
with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the
Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

______________________________

Happy game playing!!!

Total Transformation Review: Coming Soon!

We've all heard the informertials, right?  The Total Transformation Program is supposed to take even the most stubborn rebellious child, and turn him or her into an obedient, loving child who is a joy to have around.  Skeptical?  Well, I am.  I mean, a few of my kids can be rather, um, let's just say "not-so-compliant." 

Still, I hear these commercials and wonder.  Would it work for MY child?  Well, guess what?  I am gong to find out!  My little package is on the way and soon will be dropped off by the UPS man on my doorstep.  I cannot wait! I mean, I AM skeptical.  However, there's a part of me that holds out hope.  I honestly don't think I'll have perfect children once I am done with the program.  However, I'm really hoping for a least some improvement. 

I know you are all dying to know, Does this program really work?  Keep tuned, and I'll let ya know!  Now, I tend to be a sporadic poster, but I am hoping to be a bit more regular when posting about this program.  I would suggest that if you don't want to miss any of my reviews that you either subscribe to get my posts via e-mail, or follow my with Google Friend Connect, facebook, or Twitter.  Just check out my sidebar. 

I'll let you know when the package arrives! 

New Review! Game Time: Tackling the Past

I just found out about something I didn't even know was going on.  Apparently, in an effort to bring back wholesome TV to prime-time, Walmart and Proctor and Gamble are sponsoring  what they call Family Movie Nights.  Tonight on NBC at 8:00 (7:00 Central)  they will be showing Game Time:  Tacking the Past.  I have to admit, I was actually amazed that this movie is going to be on TV.  It's all about honor and integrity.  They even show a family (gasp!) praying around the table!  What a breath of fresh air. 

Now, you might ask, how I have seen this movie already.  Well, I'm special of course!  LOL  But seriously, I am now going to be doing reviews for propeller, and in this instance I had access to a special pre-broadcast online viewing.

Since this movie is showing tonight, I want to get the word out quickly, so I'm going to make this brief.  As you might suspect, this movie is about football.  Well, not really, it's about making right decisions, with football as the backdrop.  Now, I'm not a football fan, but I do seem to like football movies.  This movie was no exception.  It's bascially about a guy who has gone pro, but suddenly finds himself back home and with family.  Through a sudden turn of events, he ends up having to make the choice between staying home and continuing a pro career.  To find our more about Game Time:  Tackling the Past, just check out the links below.  :)

Website: http://www.familymovienight.com/game-time-tackling-the-past/#trailer
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/familymovienight
Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/fmnib
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/fmnib

Happy movie watching!!!

New Review!!! Mad Dog Math!

Well, hello there!!!  I'm so glad you stopped by!  :)  I bet you'd like to get my posts delivered right to your inbox, now wouldn't you?  So why not sign up for Feedburner?  Check it out, it's right there in my sidebar!  Thanks!!  :)

About the product/service: As part of the TOS Homeschool Crew I received a free download of Mad Dog Math.  Math Dog Math is a program that is set up to review the basic addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division facts.  The program is set up so that kids move from level to level as they advance through the worksheets.  The first goal is to get the problems done in two minutes.  Utlimately, the goal is to get it done in less than 30 seconds.  A cute little dog Ruff, helps lead the way!

What are the pros of this product? It's great review for kids and the cute little dog just adds to the fun.  The best part is that kids compete against themselves, so they are motivated to learn their facts!




What's not to like? Nothing really. :)  It is a wee bit confusing at first understanding how it works, but that's probably just me.  :)  My kids seemed to get is just fine. 


The Crazy Mom take:  I mostly had Baber doing this program.  He's always begging to get on the computer, so I would bribe him by saying he could get on to do his Mad Dog Math!  He didn't seem to mind (most days) and he enjoyed being able to try to get the problems done quickly.  It's a nice program, and the dog is really cute, so it's one I'd recommend.  :)

Happy problem solving! 



What's the bottom line? One year license $19.99/Two year license $29.99/Perpetual license $39.99

I am going to give Mad Dog Math 4 out of 5 smileys!!!

Check it out! http://www.maddogmath.com/about.html



See what my fellow TOS Crew members have to say @ http://homeschoolblogger.com/homeschoolcrew/783984/




*The Smiley System:

I can't really recommend this product.

I doubt this product would be helpful to many people.

This is a good product, but isn't right for everyone.

Most homeschool moms will find this useful.

This is great, and I would recommend it to anyone!!!


Disclaimer!!! I reviewed this product because I am a member of The Old Schoolhouse Homeschool Crew. I was given the product by the vendor to use and evaluate in my home so that I might share my insights with others. Other than receiving the product, which I kinda have to to be able to assess the product, I am not compensated for my reviews in any way. I am in no way obligated to give a positive review. I do try to point out negatives when I see them, though I am admittedly a pretty easy going gal! What you read are my honest assessments of the products I receive.

As with all products, you must do the research before buying. Please visit the the other crew members' blogs, the vendor websites, and any other review sites you might find before buying. I can't guarantee that a product will work for you. You must decide what will fit with your teaching style, and your child(ren)'s learning style(s). I do not judge anything other than the educational value of the products I review. I am not qualified to make judgements as to the safely of any product, and I make no guarantee that the products I review are safe for you, your family, or anyone else. I am simply giving my opinion; only you know what is best for you and your family.

Don't use your blow dryer while you sleep or take a bath. Don't read my reviews in the tub either, and please do not read them when you are asleep, though I do not guarantee that you won't fall asleep reading them!

Copyright 2011 Ramblings from the Crazy House 2

New Review!!! WonderMaps!

Well, hello there!!!  I'm so glad you stopped by!  :)  I bet you'd like to get my posts delivered right to your inbox, now wouldn't you?  So why not sign up for Feedburner?  Check it out, it's right there in my sidebar!  Thanks!!  :)

About the product/service: As part of the TOS Homeschool Crew I received a free download of WonderMaps.  Wondermaps is a new product from Bright Ideas Press (The Mystery of History folks!) that includes over 350 maps.  I'm going to be lazy this time, and pull some of the description from the Bright Ideas website.  (There are just some times when it doesn't make sense to re-invent the wheel.)

 

WonderMaps is designed with easy-to-use layers that allow you to enjoy great customizable features with just a click. Select:


• Historical or modern-day maps

• Outline, reference, political, or topographical maps

• Black-and-white or color maps

• Features including: names, borders, rivers, cities, physical features, and graticules


WonderMaps includes:

• 60+ maps of the world

• 60+ maps of the USA

• 125 historical maps, including 25 biblical maps

• The complete map sets from The Mystery of History vols. I–III and All American History vols. I & II

Here's a video!!!

What are the pros of this product? Well, let's just say, if you want a map, you can pretty much be sure they have it!  :)  Oh, and it's very, very cool!



What's not to like? Well, maybe you'll get overwhelmed with all the choices!  :)


The Crazy Mom take: I admit, I was blown away by how cool this product is!  I'm really sorry that I didn't have this a little earlier in the year when we needed some maps for a couple of projects.  I just decided that for review purposes, I'd just let the kids play around with it for fun.  I know this product will come in handy time and time again.  We've been a bit "light" on geography, but now I can easily pull it other subjects like literature, current events, and more!  Very cool, indeed. 


What's the bottom line? $49.95

I am going to give WonderMaps 5 out of 5 smileys!!!

Check it out! http://brightideaspress.com/




See what my fellow TOS Crew members have to say @

http://homeschoolblogger.com/homeschoolcrew/783915/





*The Smiley System:

I can't really recommend this product.

I doubt this product would be helpful to many people.

This is a good product, but isn't right for everyone.

Most homeschool moms will find this useful.

This is great, and I would recommend it to anyone!!!


Disclaimer!!! I reviewed this product because I am a member of The Old Schoolhouse Homeschool Crew. I was given the product by the vendor to use and evaluate in my home so that I might share my insights with others. Other than receiving the product, which I kinda have to to be able to assess the product, I am not compensated for my reviews in any way. I am in no way obligated to give a positive review. I do try to point out negatives when I see them, though I am admittedly a pretty easy going gal! What you read are my honest assessments of the products I receive.

As with all products, you must do the research before buying. Please visit the the other crew members' blogs, the vendor websites, and any other review sites you might find before buying. I can't guarantee that a product will work for you. You must decide what will fit with your teaching style, and your child(ren)'s learning style(s). I do not judge anything other than the educational value of the products I review. I am not qualified to make judgements as to the safely of any product, and I make no guarantee that the products I review are safe for you, your family, or anyone else. I am simply giving my opinion; only you know what is best for you and your family.

Don't use your blow dryer while you sleep or take a bath. Don't read my reviews in the tub either, and please do not read them when you are asleep, though I do not guarantee that you won't fall asleep reading them!

Copyright 2011 Ramblings from the Crazy House 2