Big IQ Kids Review

We're a techie family. Seriously, we are. Instead of running from media we use it (in moderation of course) -- from blogging to reading, and fun to learning. What if you could mix the two? The learning and the fun?

That's where Big IQ Kids comes in.


It's an online learning site where the kids tackle tough subjects -- math, spelling, vocabulary, states/US geography -- and then after each "class" they earn points to play fun games. That sold my kids. Each of these lessons took my kids about ten minutes to complete. They are mastery based, meaning you don't progress until you "get" the subject matter presented.

Gracie and Brennan were the lucky kids who got to try this program as part of my participation with The Old Schoolhouse Homeschool Review Crew.

Of course, they had to start by creating their avatar/character. Gracie's? Pink. Brennan's? I think he was going for the ninja look.  And then, during the school day, while I was working with another sibling they each had time to polish up math facts or spelling words or really brush up on the state knowledge. That was our favorite part of the whole program -- even above the games. I think it has to do with the fact that I am kind of a geography lover. Okay, I admit it, I read maps for fun. So I'm trying to have at least a couple of my kids follow in my state loving, river identifying, "tell me the highest mountain", and what's the population? geography path. :)


Overall, I'd recommend Big IQ Kids as a supplement to your homeschool day. It wasn't something that the kids were begging to do, but then when I'd mention it to them they were always eager for that screen time. Plus, you can add in your spelling words to the spelling list and pick and choose what you want your kids to master. And, seriously, it really helps fill in those times when one child needs something educational to complete and you're in the midst of helping another.

Some details. There are several pricing options for Big IQ Kids. You can always start with a free membership -- see if it works for your family.  Then they have the Premium Membership which is either $19.95/month or $99.99/year. If you want, they have some individual subscription options as well. Click HERE to see all the different selections. If you are interested in a free trial click HERE. If you'd like to read more opinions about Big IQ Kids click HERE. And to visit the Crew's website click HERE.

I received my version of Big IQ kids for free in return for an honest review.

How to Have a Heart for Your Kids -- a review

You guys know my heart. My heart? It's about my family. About seeking joy.

And living intentional.

When I was given the opportunity to review the book - How to Have a HEART for Your Kids by Rachael Carman (published by Apologia )-  I knew I had to jump in. Not because she has seven kids -- which I, of course, think is very cool -- but because her heart seems to mirror many things that I seek.  I am going to tell you that if you have kids, no matter whether you homeschool or not, that you really should put this book on your recommended reading list. Why? Because instead of being this guide and checklist of things that need to be done or changed this book is instead a look at your own heart. Your thoughts. And your direction.

Throughout the book she gives examples from Scripture about the heart of mothers -- from Ruth, to Moses' mother, to Mary, to Hannah. All moms. So often we can read the Bible and gloss over those stories and not really think about what those mothers dealt with. Giving up a child at age four? Putting a baby in a reed basket and letting him drift down a river? Come on. I get stressed over signing my kids up for the right classes or whether or not we've done enough math or if they've watched too much tv.  Reading Rachael Carman's words puts my own mothering and the real important back into perspective. She made me grateful for all those moments, those gifts of time, where I can walk hand in hand with a little one of mine.

It's not about the stuff. It's about character and teaching our children to live a life that is not of this world, but rather is about living for our Savior. That's the important. And that is why I highly recommend this book to all of you. Read it. Heart is an acronym and as you read it you'll discover that having a heart for your kids really starts with looking at yourself.

H — Have a heart for the things of God

E — Enrich your marriage

A — Accept your kids

R — Release them to God

T — Teach them the truth

So take the time, grab the 197 page book (that's it), grab a cup of coffee, and read. Or, if you're like me, grab the book, put it in your purse, get a cup of coffee through a drivethru, and read the book throughout the day in your moments of rest. You will be blessed.

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Now some nitty gritty disclaimer stuff. I was given this book to review as part of The Old School House Review Crew. All the opinions expressed are my own. I did not receive any form of compensation for this review. If you'd like to purchase this hardcover book for $13 via Apologia click here. To read a sample chapter click here. To read other reviews by other participants click here.