We took a ride out to a shopping area and spent considerable time in Barnes and Noble book store. All the kids picked out a magazine. W wanted a Captain Underpants book, and since J likes those books, too, I suggested they choose one together and J can read it to W. They both thought that was a great idea (I figured they can both enjoy it together that way). I found cheap workbooks - thick 1st and 6th grade ones. W wants to "do workbook" almost every day, so I think he deserves a fresh new one, lol. J found a "pre-algebra" workbook (that was only $2.75!). K was browsing the teen section, but ultimately just wanted the magazine and nothing else. She's in the middle of 2 books now anyway. I used my B&N educator's discount card and saved about $12! Woohoo!

J started reading the Captain Underpants book to W in the restaurant where we had lunch and then some more in the car. They all read their magazines at home (J-14, Bop, and Nickelodeon, respectively. I get these for them once every 6 months or so. I'm not crazy about them, but they do tend to read many of the stories and keep the posters).

When I got home from work, J brought over the pre-algebra book and asked me to do some with her. She ended up doing 3 pages/over 30 problems on "powers and exponents", "order of operatons", and "evaluating algebraic expressions". I like the way the book is set up. It makes it easy to transfer what J does in the learning log I keep for her. I always have a hard time breaking her activities down into subjects. There's so much overlap. I don't really have to keep the log, but NY is so weird sometimes with the regulations. I send them no detail at all throughout the year - just a course-of-study in the IHIP. But I know other districts expect more. I worry if one of those strict superintendents gets transferred to my district and gives us a hard time. You never know. I also like having the log for my own personal reflection on our year. I love that feeling of amazement looking back at all the things J accomplished all year through unschooling. And it helps having something to show curious (or negative) family and friends.

K joined us in the pre-algebra book, excited to show us the way she learned it in school. I can honestly say that this little sit-down pre-algebra activity was a blast. The kids treat what I consider the schooly educational academic stuff the same as an arts and crafts project, or a board game, or digging in the garden. If its interesting and fun we want to spend lots of time on it! What an awesome way to live.