SEE WORKSHOP DESCRIPTIONS BELOW SCHEDULE

Please print your own workshop handouts. Handouts will not be available at the convention.

Friday, May 3, 2013

Saturday, May 4, 2013

WORKSHOP DESCRIPTIONS

Friday, May 3, 2013

8:30 AM

Remembering the Reason, Renewing the Vision by J. Michael Smith

A general overview of the challenges, burdens, and benefits of homeschooling from a veteran homeschool father and leader. Addressing the potential homeschooler, the new homeschooler, the veteran omeschooler and all homeschoolers in between, Michael Smith outlines the success of homeschooling in academics and socialization, describes legal and legislative advances, and concludes that homeschoolers have earned the right to be left alone. For homeschoolers who are losing the vision, he reminds them of the benefits of homeschooling and offers some practical suggestions for relieving the pressure on the homeschooling family, especially Mom. “Thank you for confirming the experience of my public education,” writes one parent, “and for convicting us even more of our commitment to bettering the lives of our children.”

10:00 AM

How Young People Can Boldly Share the Gospel by The Mallys

When young people speak, people listen. But how do we get a witnessing conversation started? What if we get a question we can’t answer? What if we feel scared? How can we articulate the truth of the gospel with boldness, confidence, clarity and accuracy? In this session, Sarah, Stephen, and Grace Mally will share practical tips, ideas, and stories about how to effectively communicate the gospel to those around us. We only have one life to live, and it goes by quickly! Today’s Christian home school youth are in a position like Esther. God has raised them up “for such a time as this.” The question is, “Will our generation speak?”

What Everyone Should Know About Autism by Dr. Sam Oliphant

Most people will interact with someone who has autism during their lives. Unfortunately, many people have a lot of strange notions of what autism is, as well as what it isn't. This workshop will explain what we now know about autism, the different types of autism (autistic spectrum) and the many characteristics of individuals with autism. More importantly, knowing the basic traits of autism enables people to communicate more effectively with children and adults who are on the autism spectrum.

OCHEC 101: A Home Educator’s Guide to Scheduling and Planning by Susan Chrisman

Susan will break down the task of educating into step-by-step details that will get you started with a workable schedule. This practical session will help you with yearly, weekly and daily schedules and planning ideas, what to do with toddlers and preschoolers during school time and tips on lesson planning.

Exposing the Wizard of Oz - A Christian's Guide to Teaching History by Diana Waring

The essential crash course for every homeschool parent. Discover insights from Diana's research behind the events of history. Share her wisdom for teaching history. Do you wonder, "Whom do I trust and what do I read to know real history?" Diana will equip YOU, regardless of your curriculum, to find your way through the challenges. She will lead you to a path you can follow in discovering treasures of history with your family.

The Homeschool Marriage: From Surviving to Thriving! by Phil Downer

Every day, the homeschool marriage experiences high levels of stress, a frantic pace of life, and competing priorities which work to pull it apart at the seams. If all these forces are carefully dealt with, however, the result can be a marriage and family that is not only surviving, but truly thriving. This workshop deals with planning, communication, teamwork, and the primary obstacles that threaten to rob your marriage and family of relational harmony, peace of mind, and fruitfulness.

Twelve Easy Ways to Prepare Your Student NOW for the College Board Exams by Joanne Calderwood

Education should never be all about preparing for the SAT, the ACT, the PSAT, or any other tests. However, Joanne Calderwood has found that high College Board test scores in the high school years most definitely are a result of certain things that you probably already do with your young children/teens now. In this workshop, Joanne will discuss twelve concrete things you and your students can do beginning in kindergarten and elementary school, up through the middle school years, and concluding with the all-important high school years, that will naturally prepare them for these exams. Come find out how Joanne has raised high achievers who test well (including a perfect SAT scorer) as a direct result of their self-teaching upbringing and see how you can plug into this power source too. You’ll be surprised and encouraged! A must-hear if you are raising college-bound students. Comprehensive hand-outs supplied.

The Heart of True Education by Barb Shelton

To experience all God has for us in our homeschool, we must be willing to focus on HIS way of approaching education, and HIS priorities therin. If our focus is "avoiding gaps" or "preparing for college", we will strive to emulate the traditional school system, without realizing that the school system as we know it was not God's idea, but man's, and as such, is unable to produce the godly fruit we so desire to see in our children. Before going one more step on your path of homeschooling, make sure you are headed in the right direction, which starts with knowing what that is! Because the primary purpose of true education is "preparing us for the works God has prepared beforehand that we may walk in them, " what's "right and best" will be different for each family and each child. A generic, one-size-fits-all, cookie-cutter education does not fit all! Broadening our view of "education" and getting a scriptural "God's eye view" of it is essential to making our homeschool experience all that it can be! You'll save hundreds of dollars in unused, misused or overused curriculum, and years of frustration and futility!

Hands-On Education: How to Get Your Children Excited About Learning by Cyndi Kinney

Are you or your children getting bored with your curriculum? In this session, Cyndi will show you many different ways to add hands-on projects to any curriculum that you are already using. She will give you lots of ideas and encouragement to help you spice up your studies. Your children will thank you!

11:15 AM

Good Science, Good Faith—Building Critical Thinking Skills Through Science (Reasons to Believe)

Empower your teens to stand strong in the faith amid the growing challenges of a secular culture! Come and discover the high school science apologetics curriculum from Reasons Academy. This unique one-year program will equip your high school student to put their confident trust in Jesus as the Creator.

A Simple Plan-—Bringing Beauty & Order to Your Home by Dee Jones (Mardel)

Dee Jones is a homeschool veteran of 18 years and now serves as the Homeschool Marketing Manager for Mardel Christian & Education retailer. With her years of experience, she has a heart to encourage homeschool families to not grow weary in the day-to-day life of discipling and training their children, but to keep pressing forward. In “A Simple Plan” workshop, Dee will share how to develop a realistic plan for your family and demonstrate some useful tools and organizational techniques to help manage your homeschooling. You will walk away feeling empowered and encouraged!

Exploring Oklahoma with Children by Sarah Taylor (Metro Families Magazine)

What is more fun for homeschooling families than field trips around the state? This session will include a rundown of the best resources to make the most of all the educational fun in our state, including Exploring Oklahoma with Children by MetroFamily Magazine. Sarah Taylor, publisher of MetroFamily, will give a dozen ideas of where to go in the state, where to find more info and ideas, and how to save money as you travel.

Homeschooling & the Single Parent by Cheryl Lange (M-Pact Parenting)

Single parenting and homeschooling? Tough assignment. But a glorious one—and with results we never imagined! Come to this special workshop designed especially for you—the single homeschooling parent. Cheryl Lange has homeschooled all of five of her children through high school—and half of that time as a widow. Her own life experiences as well as 12 years in ministry to parents gives Cheryl unique preparation to lead this class. Come join us as we discuss together the specific challenges and life of being single and homeschooling. We can all use the encouragement and the information—and especially the hope!

Combining Classical Education, Charlotte Mason & Unit Studies with a Biblical Perspective (My Father’s World)

The myriad of homeschool choices can be overwhelming like interstates, highways, back roads and scenic routes. There are so many ways and opinions—how can one navigate through it all and still homeschool effectively? Why not blend the best of each method? Join My Father’s World as we show how to instill Christian values while integrating great literature, chronological history, geography, hands-on activities, notebooks and timelines, narration, study of Greek and Latin roots, nature studies, and more. Enjoy short, well-planned lessons in the morning with time to pursue individual interests in the afternoon.

12:00 PM

Raising Dangerous Sons in a Safe and Mediocre World by Todd Wilson

Let’s face it! Most men today are yellow-bellied, lily-livered weenies. They may wear tall Stetsons, drive fast cars, bungee jump from bridges, collect souped-up power tools, and carry big black Bibles, but they’re weenies. They flex their biceps and proclaim their faith, but when the economy collapses, the newest pandemic hits the scene, a family crisis arises, or the going gets tough, they play it safe. Truth is: God wants your sons to leave the heavily-populated, safe waters and live dangerously. He wants your sons to trust dangerously, work dangerously, and love dangerously. But that doesn’t come naturally. Everyone around them, from the talking heads in the media to pastors in the pulpit, keeps repeating, “Play it safe.” Here’s a secret: Dangerous living leads to joy, family happiness, and real success while safe living results in worry, family failure, and heartache. So join Todd as he encourages you and your sons to GET DANGEROUS.

Preschool and Kindergarten Education at Home, Part 1 by Susan Chrisman

Understanding the developmental abilities of your young child is essential before planning a preschool/kindergarten curriculum. What should your child know by the age of six? Susan Chrisman, homeschool mom of five and grandmother of three, will show you the keys to early education, and how to set goals for and record what your young children need to know. You will learn the specifics of academic preparation for your young child.

OCHEC 102: Choosing Curriculum That Fits Your Child by Cindy Nicolai

Choosing the right curriculum for your child can be overwhelming. There are so many great vendors to choose from and so many different styles that you don’t know where to start. In this workshop, you will be given a passport to help you discover the many learning styles and curriculum methods available and which ones will work best for your child.

Peparing Heart, Soul 'n' Guts NOW to Homeschool to the END! by Barb Shelton

Does the thought of homeschooling through high school give you the shivers every time you think of it? Whether high school is still several years away or you're already doing it, you don't have to continue to be plagued by fear! Let's expose and deal with the myths, intimidations and misperceptions head-on, once and for all! The focus for this workshop is high school concerns - not "high school how-to's". (Those are in another workshop.) We'll delve into the fears and concerns, like the diploma issue, can I really do this, will my child be missing out. With these fears dealt with (as in dealt a swift "death blow"), you'll be free to approach high school with vision and confidence! It takes some time to go through this process, so do yourself a favor and do this early on!

Homeschooling the Strong-Willed Child: I AM ONE! By Paul Downer

Between the ages of eight and thirteen, I (Paul) was a terror! I was a liar, a thief, lazy, self-centered, and had a fiery temper that caused constant problems for my siblings and family. But my parents didn’t give up on me. They applied specific biblical principles of discipleship which God used to reach my heart, change my direction, and transform my life. Come hear what they did that made the difference.

Building A Good Conscience in Your Child by Dennis Gundersen

What the Bible calls “a good conscience” is vital for our children to form during their youth! Parents can strengthen a child’s conscience, so the child becomes an adult of strong convictions and is compelled away from sinful living and towards righteous choices, even when parents are not present. Is “the goal of your instruction, a good conscience” as 1 Timothy 1:5 says? A practical plan for achieving this is the subject of this seminar!

Before Prince Charming, Beyond Romance; Books For Girls by Jan Bloom

Romance novels sell. Even Christian publishers produce hundreds of new romance titles every year. What exactly is a romance novel? Are they all bad? What else is there to read? What should be read and when should it be read? Join Jan, an avid reader, as she walks through the different age and interest levels of girls in order to suggest quality reading that teaches important life lessons and truly prepares young women for whatever God has planned for them.

Tools to Purposefully Teach Your Children Their Identity Before Someone Else Does by Sheri Yates

“Sticks and stones may break our bones,” which some day heal; but words become the voice from which our future will be sealed. We are commissioned as shepherds of our children to seal their future with the faith-building words that secure our children in their true identity, their identity in Christ. We will provide practical day-to-day tools to empower you to teach your children their true identity. We will also be giving away our Truth or Trash iPhone app, and selling our popular “Truth and Trash” game cards.

1:15 PM

Discipleship in the Home by Charissa Maxwell (Growing in God)

We will explore the importance of disciple making in the home, while looking at the mandate of our Lord Jesus Christ and His ministry to the twelve.

Turn On the Light to Reading by Diane Stout (Know Its)

PreK-2nd grade children need engaging activities to learn to read. Diane Stout will demonstrate reading activities both online and hands-on. She will show parents how to use the Know-Its Essentials Online Manual by starting with the reading skill and with just a click, the online games and activities are there for the child to do. The games and activities can be worked on the computer or iPad. Diane will demonstrate these activities on a SmartBoard so all will be able to see and participate. Participants will play a reading game to see how a specific skill can be taught. Diane will demonstrate how to teach reading strategies such as blending the sounds, sight words, etc. Participants will even get to take home a game to make for their child.

Building Scholars, Molding Leaders: FPE Statesmanship Training by LouAnn Dalbac (Freedom Project Education)

Our Founding Fathers were scholars, innovators, men classically educated in reason, science, and moral virtue. Their rigorous and faith-based education forged them into leaders and provided the vision and wisdom necessary to form a new nation, under God, and conceived in liberty. These ideals have vanished from the public schools, giving rise to our current crisis of leadership at every level of American life. At FreedomProject Education, we reinstate the educational values of the Founders—the subjects they studied and the Biblical values they imbibed—in order to mold the next great generation of American thinkers and leaders. We reject political correctness and multiculturalism, which make excuses for other cultures while condemning our own, and instead focus on teaching students critical thinking skills: how to think, not what to think. We highlight the role of faith in our founding and teach the American narrative as it happened, without apology of revisionism.

Making Science Meaningful by Darren Grant (Real Ark Ministries)

Making science less intimidating and more fun is one of the goals of Real Ark Ministries. In this workshop, Darren Grant will explore different ways of setting up meaningful and practical lab experiences at home, without all of the stress.

Revitalize Your Homeschool Bible Class by Dianna Wiebe (Grapevine)

Regardless of your biblical knowledge or the knowledge of your children, these Bible curriculums can help you disciple your children effectively! Easy-to-use teacher manuals walk you through each lesson while giving you opportunities to teach and share your personal faith with your children.

2:00 PM

Keys To Godly Discipline by Phil Downer

Every one of our children presented unique discipline challenges—and some of them were masters at turning our home into World War III! This session is packed with life stories, practical advice, problem-solving skills for your most difficult discipline problems, and most importantly, how to shape the behavior of your child without losing your child’s heart.

Preschool and Kindergarten Education At Home Part 2 by Susan Chrisman

Understanding the developmental abilities of your young child is essential before planning a preschool/kindergarten curriculum. What should your child know by the age of six? Susan Chrisman, homeschool mom of five and grandmother of three, will show you the keys to early education, and how to set goals for and record what your young children need to know. You will learn the specifics of academic preparation for your young child.

OCHEC 103: Philosophies of Home Education by Tracy Phillips

With so many educational ideas and curricula floating around out there, how will you know which one is the perfect fit for your family? In this workshop, you will hear about the different styles of homeschooling and why they may or may not be right for your family.

Not Just Your Average Genius by Diana Waring

In this fast-paced, easy-to-understand workshop, you will distinguish three different grids that impact the unique way each one in your family learns: learning modalities (visual, auditory, kinesthetic); learning styles (feeler, thinker, sensor, intuitor); learning intelligences (interpersonal, intrapersonal, linguistic, spatial, math-logical, bodily-kinesthetic, musical, naturalist). Discover how to honor (not go crazy because of!) that wiggler in your midst; how to create a rich atmosphere for learning that will attract every learner; how to use your children's strengths to learn subjects that are hard for them; most importantly, learn that God delights in the incredibly individualized mechanisms for learning inside each of us! With this insight, including new research on intelligences, you will be able to adapt your teaching strategies and choose your curriculum wisely.

What Can Dads Do To Make Mom Successful in Homeschooling by J. Michael Smith

Almost every father has heard that he is to lead his family spiritually, physically, and in every other way. However, many fathers will tell you that no one has ever told them how to effectively lead their children, especially in the area of spiritual development. Michael Smith presents encouraging and practical tips to fathers for becoming a helpful participant in the home education program and a leader in the home. He provides insight on the mental and emotional benefits to mothers and children that fathers can provide through specific activities, and offers suggestions to men on how to be more effective as husbands. Mike candidly shares his many failures and a few successes. The session concludes with a list of the six things homeschooling mothers have identified as the primary ways their husbands can be more effective in the family’s homeschool program. In one father’s words, “Inspiring and convicting—thanks for the straight talk!”

Your Child’s Growing Mind: For Parents of Children Ages 10+ by Cheryl Lange

Would you try to teach a newborn to walk? Or a six-month-old to tie his shoes? Your child’s brain has to develop just like his bones and muscles. Drawing from experts in education and neuroscience, Cheryl shares their research with easy explanations of how we can use this information on a daily basis to educate. This session will help you better understand your child’s brain development and learn what you can do to maximize its God-given functions. Practical and applicable as well as informational.

Classical Music in the Homeschool by Don Fairchild

A look at why you should incorporate Classical Music into your homeschool, even if you are not a musician. This workshop will try to demystify the music, look at the composers and musical periods, and suggest ways to incorporate it into your curriculum. It will also give suggestions regarding resources for listening to and learning about Classical Music.

Creating, Organizing & Documenting High School Classes by Barb Shelton

Here's practical, do-able HELP for how to pull together all your student's learning experiences, from traditional to natural to lessons (like music) to sports to life experience—and certainly any combination thereof—and turn them into wonderful classes. Plus:  how to organize your high school experience and customize it to fit your teen(s); how to determine what kind of a framework to choose for high school that accommodates your and your student's needs, priorities, and styles; and how to organize and document ALL of your student's learning experiences, including traditional, natural, non-traditional, real-life learning!

3:15 PM

Classical Conversations by Kim Ford (Classical Conversations)

The purpose of education is to know God and to make HIm known. Our purpose is to lead the home-centered education movement by equipping parents and students with the classical tools of learning needed to discover the order and beauty of God’s creation and to inspire others to do the same.

How to Prepare, Package, and Position your Homeschooler for College Success by Dr. Kuni Beasley with Debbie Lindstrom (National Homeschool Academy)

Dr. Beasley has helped homeschoolers gain admission to the highest rated colleges in the nation and earn some top scholarships. Find out how to prepare, package, and position your college-bound student for competitive admissions and significant scholarship offers. Debbie Lindstrom will share her story on how her two oldest sons were prepared to receive complete college scholarships that covered all college costs, including room and board!

Experience Excellence in Writing by Chardell Novotny (Institute of Excellence in Writing)

Come and discover award-winning Excellence in Writing, a method of teaching composition that really works. Using this program, students of all ages will learn to write stories, reports and essays with style. This workshop will give you an overview of the program and show you how you can get started.

Occupying Preschoolers While Teaching Older Children (My Father’s World)

Our children are precious gifts from the Lord but sometimes they can interfere with our human plans. These little ones seem to seek attention at the wrong time. What can we do at these times to creatively involve them in the learning process? My Father’s World shares many suggestions on how to educate and occupy little ones.

4:00 PM

Making Brothers and Sisters Best Friends by The Mallys

Many parents say that one of their biggest struggles in homeschooling is the bickering and fighting that occurs between their children. In this session, Sarah, Stephen, and Grace Mally, co-authors of the book Making Brothers and Sisters Best Friends, will share how they have worked through pride, offenses, and irritations in their relationships, and learned to become best friends. This entertaining presentation, including ideas, insights, skits, and personal testimonies, is recommended for the entire family.

Getting Into the Zone by Joanne Calderwood

Ever feel a bit like you live in a combat zone, but the “enemy” you’re fighting is really your very own self? Wish you could be more productive, doubt-free, energetic, focused, and underwhelmed? Do you ever find yourself in a slump caused by too much to do, pressure, and stress, rendering you immobile? As Dr. Seuss says, “Un-slumping yourself isn’t easily done.” As a former Slumpsville resident, Joanne has learned how to move out of the combat zone and back into the comfort zone where life is full and fun again. Learn some surprising secrets this non-athletic, forty-nine-year-old mom of eight kids (and an exercise hater) has to share that can help you get back into the zone—physically, emotionally, and spiritually—and get back in sync with your busy self. Note: There shall be no utterance of the word “diet.” Comprehensive hand-outs supplied.

OCHEC 104 Taming the Beast of Record Keeping by Cindy Nicolai

Transcripts! Credit Hours and Grades! Oh, My! If the thought of keeping records for your homeschool haunts you, this workshop will help you tame the beast and get your records in order. If you have never kept records, you will learn what you need to keep and what you can throw away, methods of record-keeping, how long to keep the records, and much more.

Teaching Truth, Goodness, and Beauty by Jennifer Courtney

Are you frustrated by textspeak because it’s destroying the beauty of our language? Do you look wistfully at old buildings and wish modern architecture weren’t so ugly? Are you concerned about raising children who recognize and speak Truth in an era of relativism? Do you want to teach your children the difference between values and virtues so that they can pursue goodness? In this workshop, we will examine how you can train your children to recognize truth, goodness, and beauty and to hunger after them. We will examine older models of education which focused on these three ideals.

Resolving Conflicts and Building Strong Parent-Teen Relationships by Paul Downer

This session addresses the vital topics of resolving conflicts with your teenager, opening lines of communication, understanding the barriers that he is putting between you, becoming your teenager’s favorite life-coach, addressing negative influences in your teenager’s life without getting pushed away, understanding what your teenager wants most (despite appearances), balancing the growth of freedom and responsibility in your teenager's life, maintaining consequences without being controlling, and helping your teenager live for the favor of God rather than man.

The Rejoicing of the Parents of the Righteous by Dennis Gundersen

Proverbs 23:24 says: “The father of the righteous greatly rejoices.” What brings a Christian parent more joy than knowing that their children walk in the truth? This inspiring, “keynote” message stirs parents to invest their time in training for righteousness, because that’s what will one day bring us the greatest possible joy!

No Jaywalking!  Teaching History in Your Homeschool. by Don Fairchild

The study of history can be a fascinating and exciting subject in your homeschool. The key is to avoid the textbook/worksheet method of teaching history (usually with a strong Leftist bias) that we all grew up with in public school. This workshop will provide some teaching tips and suggested resources to help make your history studies come alive.

No More Boring Book Reports! Making Literature Fun! By Cyndi Kinney

Does your child dread writing book reports...or maybe even reading? Cyndi will show you some really great ways to get your child excited about literature! She will teach you how to use new and innovative graphic organizers and hands-on projects to replace boring book reports.

7:00 PM

OCHEC FAMILY NIGHT ** THIS WE BELIEVE!! by Todd Wilson

Dads and moms, we've forgotten. In all of the busyness of life and swell of expert advice we've forgotten the fundamental truths of homeschooling, family, and marriage. It shows in the alarming rate of disintegration of marriages, the pulling apart of families, and the lack of joy in our homeschools. Join funny guy, and familyman, Todd Wilson as he sets the stage for a great homeschool convention and a great year as he brings us back to the basics of what we really believe about marriage, family, and homeschool. You're not going to want to miss this for the world!

Saturday, May 4, 2013

9:15 AM

Good Science, Good Faith—Building Critical Thinking Skills Through Science (Reasons to Believe)

Empower your teens to stand strong in the faith amid the growing challenges of a secular culture! Come and discover the high school science apologetics curriculum from Reasons Academy. This unique one-year program will equip your high school student to put their confident trust in Jesus as the Creator.

Higher Education Customized to You by James Glenn (CollegePlus)

The CollegePlus Bachelor’s Degree Program allows you to earn your fully accredited Bachelor’s degree in two to three years, without debt, for around $17,000, and with the freedom and flexibility to gain life experience while you earn your degree. Come and learn about how CollegePlus has reinvented the modern college experience by turning back to how our Founding Fathers pursued their higher educations.

A Simple Plan—Bringing Beauty & Order to Your Home by Dee Jones (Mardel)

Dee Jones is a homeschool veteran of 18 years and now serves as the Homeschool Marketing Manager for Mardel Christian & Education retailer. With her years of experience, she has a heart to encourage homeschool families to not grow weary in the day-to-day life of discipling and training their children, but to keep pressing forward. In “A Simple Plan” workshop, Dee will share how to develop a realistic plan for your family and demonstrate some useful tools and organizational techniques to help manage your homeschooling. You will walk away feeling empowered and encouraged!

You Can Homeschool High School! (My Father’s World)

Studies indicate that homeschooled high schoolers are more likely to remain committed to Christ than those who attend public school. My Father’s World high school curriculum integrates Bible, history and English, allowing your student to develop a strong Biblical worldview using easy to follow self-directed lesson plans for all subjects. Students read through the entire Bible, apply Biblical analysis when reading classical literature, develop strong composition skills and nurture a heart to serve others. Look forward to homeschooling your student through high school and make Christ a central focus during these crucial growing years.

10:00 AM

The Greatest Deterrent to Homeschooling: Fear and Inadequacy by J. Michael Smith

This presentation is based upon scriptural principles gleaned from King Jehoshaphat of Judah and the teachings of Jesus Christ. This session is more of a general encouragement and challenge to homeschoolers than specific direction on how to homeschool. However, there will be specific application principles that will be given in a 1—2—3 format to help those who like to take away specific points to overcome fear of failure, one of the greatest enemies of homeschooling moms.

Ten Things You Need to Teach Your Daughter Before She Graduates by Todd Wilson

When you’re choosing what to teach your daughter it really boils down to what matters and what doesn’t, or what your daughter needs to know to live happily ever after. The only problem is that everyone seems to have a different answer. Experts stand on every street corner shouting something different, “They need to know state history, master advanced algebra, and speak a foreign language.” It’s enough to give a well-meaning parent a headache and an ulcer. After all, what if you forget to teach her something important, dooming your daughter to a life of misery and failure? Problem solved. During this hour, Todd will cut away the tall grass and share with you the top Ten Things You Need to Teach Your Daughter before She Graduates that guarantee happiness and success.

OCHEC: YOU CAN HOMESCHOOL by OCHEC Trustees

An introduction to homeschooling designed to answer questions including: Is it legal? Why do families choose to homeschool? How do you get started? How do you choose curriculum? What about group activities, "socialization," etc.? Come and get all of your questions answered and glean wisdom from OCHEC Trustees. This workshop will last approximately 90 minutes.

The Indispensable Ingredient by Diana Waring

The most important element in your curriculum is—are you ready for this?—YOU. Diana has been there, knows what you are experiencing, and has talked with many others in your position. She will express your heart's cry that your children would grow in character and knowledge, and encourage you that you can get it done. Through Diana's transparent examples and practical suggestions, this workshop will help you understand the pivotal role you play as a mentor, a model, and a facilitator in your child's education.

Leaving A Godly Legacy: Discipling Your Children by Phil Downer

It is the passion and prayer of every loving parent’s heart, but what does it take to build the authentic relationships with our children necessary for them to become a lasting, living legacy? This session is dedicated to exactly that question, and to sending you away with a toolbox packed-full with the everyday ideas, strategies, activities, and methods for being a fun parent, building strong relationships with your kids, and raising them to faithfully live for the glory of God and the good of others.

Your Child’s Growing Mind: For Parents of Children Ages 10+ by Cheryl Lange

Would you try to teach a newborn to walk? Or a six-month-old to tie this shoes? Your child’s brain has to develop just like his bones and muscles. Drawing from experts in education and neuroscience, Cheryl shares their research with easy explanations of how we can use this information on a daily basis to educate. This session will help you better understand your child’s brain development and learn what you can do to maximize its God-given functions. Practical and applicable as well as informational.

Fostering Hope: How the Homeschool Community Can Bring HOPE to Hurting Children and Families by Foster and Adoptive Panel

Join veteran foster and adoptive parents as they share their journeys, answering many of the questions that we all have. The Bible clearly tells us that we are to “care for the orphans and widows” but what does that really look like? Come and learn more about how you can help.

Creative, Flexible Home Organizing by Barb Shelton.

This pictorial tour of Barb's home and life - with lots of explanations along the way - will help and inspire you to make the most of what you have, organize it better, set up "centers" in you rhome that will help you function more efficiently, and thus creat more order and peace in your home, which are part of the foundation of a peaceful homeschool.

11:15 AM

Discipleship in the Home by Charissa Maxwell (Growing in God)

We will explore the importance of disciple making in the home, while looking at the mandate of our Lord Jesus Christ and His ministry to the twelve.

God Knew There Would Be Dyslexia by Bea Edwards (DEAR)

DEAR presents a clear presentation about the root of dyslexia based upon God’s Word and debunks misconceptions associated with the struggles caused by dyslexia. A free consultation, $50 student enrollment registration, and $400 tuition, which is payable as the student progresses through the three-month individualized program, will be presented. DEAR’s opportunity, giving a dyslexic the freedom to soar for a lifetime, may be the first ray of hope for many desperate parents.

How & Why? by Vickie Olson (Sonlight)

Vickie Olson, homeschooling veteran of 14 years speaks on the ins and outs of Sonlight, and what makes it a good choice for homeschool families. She will discuss literature-based education, how to use the Instructors Guides, and share personal experience. Time will be left at the end of the session for Q&A.

Starting A Sports Team/League for Your Group by Janet Wortham

Live in a rural area? Don’t have a venue for your child to play sports? Are you willing to start a league in your area but don’t know what to do or where to start? This workshop will give you the ins and outs of starting a sports team for your local group or a league for your area.

12:00 PM

Peace Treaties in the Living Room by The Mallys

Sarah, Stephen and Grace Mally, three homeschool graduates, will challenge families to seek God's very best in their family relationships and "fight the GOOD fight" at home. Sharing personal examples and stories of how God has worked in their lives, the Mallys will cover topics such as how to overcome irritations and anger, how to apply humility and mercy, how to work through pride and offenses, and how to maintain a peaceful home. They will share practical ideas about how parents can impart these principles to their children at a young age. Sarah, Stephen, and Grace are the authors of the book, Making Brothers and Sisters Best Friends. Session includes a chalk talk and harp music. This is a sequel to their first brother/sister workshop.

If A Man Will Not Work, He Will Not Eat: Encouraging Children in Chores by Tracy Phillips

Having eight children at home, I am often asked “How do you do it all?”, followed by “Eight children and you fix your hair?” The answer? I don’t. (Well, I DO fix my hair!) The fact is there are ten people in our home who create mess and nine of us help clean it up. Come find out how to delegate everything from laundry to who gives baths! Practical advice on chores and organization. Moms, come in and take a load off…literally!

The Four Language Arts by Andrew Pudewa

When asked, "What are the language arts?" people may respond by listing such things as: spelling, phonics, grammar, penmanship, and composition. But actually, only one of these is correct! According to the classical (and the common sense) model, there are four core language arts: listening, speaking, reading, and writing, and to teach each from the beginning in the proper sequence must be the highest priority for those who call themselves “writing educators.”

Connecting Hearts - Now and Forever! By Barb Shelton

We see many people ~ homeschoolers included ~ who appeared to have their children's hearts during the homeschool years, only to see them "go their own way" ~ a way that doesn't include parents or family ~ after leaving home. Many assume it is normal and natural do not have good, healthy, flowing relationships with their kids, that it’s okay for disrespect to reign in the home. Indeed it *is* "normal"; but it is not God's "norm"! He has SO much MORE for His precious people!!! Learn how to sweeten, correct, and heal relationships between parents and children, and between children, from baby through adulthood ~ how to get and keep your children's hearts, "until death do you part."

Top Challenges of A Homeschool Graduate by Paul Downer

Paul, a college graduate and current seminary student in full time ministry, addresses the challenges of plotting a path toward educational and career opportunities after the homeschool high school experience. This workshop deals with discerning God’s design for one’s life and tailoring the direction one chooses to each individual homeschool graduate. Learn how to overcome the pitfalls and enjoy the possibilities.

Basic Lapbooking Across the Curriculum by Cyndi Kinney

If you have ever thought that lapbooking was just way too complicated, then this is the session for you! Let Cyndi Kinney break this exciting learning tool down into bite-sized portions and tell you how you can add lapbooking to your homeschool.

Homeschooling Your Teen: Your Finest Hour by Kim Ford

Do you hear the battle cry over your teen? We are in a moment intime when the stakes are large. The battle lines have been drawn. And the prize? Your teenager. Unfortunately, the stats are not in your favor, but God is! Please join me as we rally together to encourage each other for this moment in history like none other. Where the darkness is great, the light shines brighter. Your teenager is an answer to this darkneww, not to be succumbed to it. Get practical tips on how to win in your home, secure the heart of your teen and launch him/her out into the world equipped and able to lead his own generation.

Enzymes: The Most Overlooked Link to Brain Health and Learning by Karen Hopkins

Enzymes are proteins that are necessary for every chemical reaction in the body. Without enzymes, vitamins, minerals, and hormones can do nothing! Understanding how essential enzymes are to the function of the brain could improve your child’s learning ability. This information is vital for all parents especially for those children with spectrum disorders.

1:15 PM

Dual Credit for Homeschoolers by James Glenn (CollegePrep)

Your Collegiate Consultant will help you create a plan so your student age 14-18 can earn 12 transferrable college credits for what he is already learning, using curriculum you already own. By working with his CollegePrep Accountability Mentor, your student matures as a self-directed learning who takes ownership of his education. Come learn how you can get your student on the track of a higher quality, higher education.

Revitalize Your Homeschool Bible Class by Dianna Wiebe (Grapevine)

Regardless of your Biblical knowledge or the knowledge of your children, these Bible curriculums can help you disciple your children effectively! Easy-to-use teacher manuals walk you through each lesson while giving you opportunities to teach and share your personal faith with your children.

Aromatherapy—the Key to Brain Sensory by Karen Hopkins (Growing Healthy Homes)

The use of aromatherapy for relaxation and good health promoting benefits can also be used to provide sensory stimulation for the brain. Inhaling essential oils through the nose into the olfactory bulb leads directly to the central brain to improve concentration, memory and all executive functions. Learn about this amazing discovery that will reduce stress and optimize learning in your classroom.

Hands-on Kindergarten & First Grade (My Father’s World)

Overwhelmed? Try our easy-to-teach complete curriculum that incorporates phonics, reading, writing, art, Bible, hands-on science, math, history and more. Incorporate preschoolers and older kids in many of the interesting activities. My Father’s World shows how easy-to-teach yet flexible lessons plans eliminate preparation time without sacrificing the fun!

2:00 PM

Lies Homeschoolers Believe by Todd Wilson

Your house is a disaster, your kids seem out of control, and you wonder how you'll ever make it through another day of school. Your "get up and go" has "got up and went". You used to think homeschooling was the best thing since sliced bread, but now you’re feeling like burnt toast. Take heart - you're not alone! No one homeschools because it's easy. You do it because you believe it's best. But there are times when you need to be reminded once again why it's best. Join me as we do just that. You'll laugh and be encouraged in the toughest job you'll ever...love.

How to Protect Your Family Against A Truant Officer or Social Worker Visit by J. Michael Smith

As the government’s ever-growing role expands to encompass family life and decision-making, the information presented in this seminar is critical for every attendee. Michael Smith comes with over two decades of defending homeschooling families against social services and child protective service contacts to inform the audience of the newest threat to their freedom. This session primarily addresses your state’s laws relating to social services contacts and provides general application for other states as well. Audiences find this session “very, very informative,” “clearly presented, enjoyable to listen to,” and “a necessity.”

Self-Teaching 101 Part 1 by Joanne Calderwood

Discover the secret to homeschooling freedom with the Self-Teaching Method of Education! Part 1 will show you the incredible, almost-too-good-to-be-true benefits of the self-teaching and mastery methodologies as well as focusing initially on the all-important ingredient to a peaceful home life: capturing your child’s heart. Learn Joanne’s proven self-teaching formula and you will have obedient, cheerful children who learn independently and with excellence. For real.

Nurturing Competent Communicators — The Power of Linguistic Patterns by Andrew Pudewa

Many parents think that good readers will naturally become good writers. Others think that writing talent is just that—a natural ability—some have it; others don’t. Both are myths. History and modern research show very clearly how good writers have developed. What are the two most critical things you can do as a parent to develop a high level of aptitude, from a young age and into high school? With humor and insight, Andrew will share the two easy but unbelievably powerful things you can do to build language patterns and nurture competent communicators in your family.

Healing Wounds in a Family Between Generations by Phil Downer

All too many homeschool families struggle along alone and discouraged with the hurt and wounds that come from anger, controlling relationships, rejection, fear, insecurity, and relational brokenness. That’s our family’s story as well. This session confronts these issues head-on. We share from our experiences, struggles, and failures how God wants to equip each of us to engage and heal the brokenness of our lives between generations, which will enable our children to break free of the negative multi-generational patterns of belief and behavior that were passed down to us.

If You Don't, Who Will?  Teaching Our Children to Know God by Cheryl Lange

It is an intimidating assignment. We want to do it.  It is our heart. But how do we really teach our children to know God and His Word personally? And if we don't, who will? Cheryl shares Biblical Truth and then practical application for HOW to actually do this vital priority day in and day out with your children.  With extended time, Cheryl will do demonstration with the group and involve them in the activity.

Dads and Lads: Building Lasting Bonds by Gary Bloom

Homeschooling is not just a mom thing—dads are a vital component in developing sons who love life and honor God and their families. Join Gary, a veteran homeschool dad, as he explores ideas, activities, and strategies for the dad who wants to build lasting relationships with his sons that build family unity and provide the framework for godly manhood.

Real-Life Homeschool Learning and Organizing Tools for Younger Children by Barb Shelton

Practical help for organizing homeschool, chores, and life, plus how to set up a flexible lesson plan based on a healthy balancing and weaving of your child's real life experiences with their academic needs, and then how to "dish it out." Plus ten reasons to keep records and how to determine which ones YOU do and don't need! You will also get ideas for getting and keep your home and homeschool in order, your day running smoothly, your stuff (including kids' jobs) organized.

3:15 PM

Real M.O.N.E.Y. for College by Dr. Kuni Bealsey with Debbie Lindstrom (National Homeschool Academy)

Real College Funding—no gimmicks, no loans, no debts, nor mortgaging the family home! M.O.N.E.Y. describes the five sources of college funding: Merit, Opportunity, Need-based, Entitlement, and Your own money for college. Dr. Beasley attended college 22 years and paid for only one semester. Dr. Beasley’s wife attended Harvard on scholarship and paid only $411 her first semester. Debbie Lindstrom has no college expenses for her two oldest sons. Thousands of funding sources are available regardless of income.

Three Keys to Great Art Education by Daniel Ellis (Artistic Pursuits)

Discover the simple keys to unlocking your child’s God-given talents in the visual arts. All children can excel in the visual arts with encouragement and teaching methods that address both the expressive and technical aspects of art. Learn how you can give your child a great art education at home by focusing on awareness, creativity, and well timed instruction in the basic principles of art!

OETA/PBS Learning Media Workshop by Ashley Barcum (OETA)

Join OETA—The Oklahoma Network for a demonstration of their free next-generation digital media service that empowers PreK–16 educators to re-imagine learning, transform teaching, and creatively engage students. More than 20,000 free assets in this content library are tied to Common Core and national curriculum standards, including carefully created, purpose-built media: videos, interactives, audios, lesson plans, multimedia, professional development, and more. The service also provides the ability for educators to search, save, share, and review content.

Learn to Read & Write with PAL by Chardell Novotny (Institute for Excellence in Writing)

Announcing IEW’s Primary Arts of Language (PAL), a beginning reading and writing program based on Anna Ingham’s 70-year legacy. Designed to provide everything you need to start your K-2 students reading and writing, these multisensory, interactive materials will give your children a foundation for excellence in writing as they take delight in learning.

4:00 PM

An Unbeatable Team by Todd Wilson

In the sometimes bleak and harsh world of homeschooling, we need each other to make it through. So, if you've homeschooled for over ten years, are new to the game, or are about to toss in the towel, you need to join us. And in case you are a dad and think you're off the hook, you're not! You're needed most of all. We promise that you'll laugh, be encouraged, and be challenged in your distinct role on the Homeschool TEAM.

Twelve Ways to Train Young Men to Be Leaders by The Mallys

There is a question that Christians everywhere seem to be asking: “Where are all the godly young men?” There certainly seems to be a lack of strong, godly men to lead our families and churches and the nation. Yet it is also true that the Lord is preparing many godly young men and will be raising up a new generation of powerful leaders. He is looking for young men who will hear the call, follow Him wholeheartedly, and join the battle. In this session, Harold and Stephen Mally will give practical teaching about how young men can gain vision and boldness, how they can successfully avoid the snares of the enemy, and how fathers can lead the way and impart spiritual direction in their sons’ lives.

Self-Teaching 101 Part 2 by Joanne Calderwood

This workshop will show you how to implement the self-teaching method of education in your homeschool. Self-teaching is a process that children grow into, which results in increased motivation and strong work ethic. ‘The Seven Myths of Homeschooling’ will also be presented. Joanne will show you the simple secret to becoming an underwhelmed homeschool parent! Comprehensive hand-outs will be supplied at both sessions.

Actively ENGAGE Learning and Actually ENJOY Learning by Diana Waring

One of the biggest questions people ask is, "How do I get my kids to finish their school work?" The deeper question is actually, "How do I get my kids to be self-motivated?" We will examine the answers to these critical questions, and look at specific ways to encourage and assist our children in developing ownership of their education. We must learn the critical difference between controlling and directing; between pushing and releasing; between coercing and facilitating. It is the essence of a master teacher who
says, "I can not teach you how to do it, but I can help you learn to do it." This is an interactive and practical workshop that you can put to use immediately!

Entrepreneurship Education: Why and How By Andrew Pudewa

Many of us realize that we value home education not only because it often results in better academics, superior social environments, and enriched family life, but because it builds a better community and country. The result of true liberal education—a freedomship education—will be not only young men and women who know how to think and communicate, but who think evangelically and entrepreneurially. To revive a culture of self-sufficiency and freedom requires more people with the owner/entrepreneur mindset and fewer with the employee mindset. Join Andrew for a discussion of how to cultivate an entrepreneurial, or georgic, aptitude in our children. The future of freedom may depend on it.

Family Worship Without Being A Bible Scholar by Dennis Gundersen

More and more godly fathers are becoming aware that, as the family shepherd, they should lead their households into a habit of family worship — that is, consistent time in the Word of God and in prayer together. But many are overwhelmed and tremble at the idea! How on earth am I going to lead my children into understanding God’s Word, when I’m a simple Christian man? Dennis Gundersen presents simple and practical ideas that any Dad can put into practice. You don’t have to be a Bible scholar! You just have a be an eager learner yourself.

Carschooling — How to Turn ANYTHING Into A Learning Experience by Cyndi Kinney

Learn at the grocery store, at the museum, on vacation, at the dentist's office, while waiting in line, while riding on long road trips, and just about everywhere else! In this session, Cyndi will give you some new and fun ideas for turning everyday experiences into learning opportunities for all ages.

Yee-Haw! Books For Boys by Jan Bloom

Most boys love reading books filled with adventure, discovery, unusual facts, and heroic, courageous behavior, but their moms, the primary book finders, don't know which books fulfill these ideals. Jan Bloom, vintage book dealer and mother of a male reader, searched for great books that appealed to boys and were well-written, with positive role models, and a healthy worldview. Jan will give suggestions of authors for all ages of boys, from those early "reading is too hard" days to the "I hardly have time to read anymore" years.