My best friend uses TGATB LA because it is open-and-go, free, and incorporates enough pieces of other subjects that she feels confident adding math and calling that her spine for homeschooling. She's also doing the math for her youngest, and so far, it's working great. We both find the elementary stuff to be just generically Christian enough to be fine. I like their LA for preschool - colourful, gentle, varied. But once I get into actual learning to read and math, I prefer more systematic and to-the-point over the Charlotte Mason, so I like to use Logic of English (especially because I like being able to start cursive right from the beginning with that program) and Math-U-See. Different styles work for different families, and I DO NOT understand why there is so much drama about it. Lol
I completely agreed about different styles work for different families... is that simple. Also, I was excited to read that you are using the logic of English and math u see. After so much research these are the 2 curriculum I choose to start my daughter on reading and math (k level)
Seriously, people make their video's about it when they haven't even used it. It is available to download for free, yet they don't even take the time to download it all and look through it to find examples of what their claims are. They just make their video's stating they won't use it because " I don't need that kind of drama in my life" but by making the video for social media, they are asking for drama. It makes zero sense. It's more like, I need to post something controversy so I can get more views on my You Tube channel.
If you look hard enough, almost every company has some “controversy”. For us, it was the ONLY math my boys had success with long term. We’ve tried SO many others with little success. I love that we have the freedom to choose 😊 Thanks for sharing your personal experience and perspective.
Leilani I always enjoy hearing your thoughts and thanks for sharing ❤️ as someone who uses the good and the beautiful I still like hearing other moms thoughts and I feel like we shouldn't get offended with others opinions on "why a family" chooses this or that. We got to follow our journey and homeschooling style ... like you said the beauty of homeschooling is being able to choose what's best for your family. Thanks for sharing I think this will help many homeschooling families with your suggestions!
We have used TGATB LA for some time now and out of all the LA programs we like it so far with its' beautiful art illustrations and geography included. I have never felt pressured to use it nor felt like it was too religious one way or another. Just like you mentioned, it's great that as a homeschooler we have the freedom and flexibility to choose what fits best for us.
After struggling with this for over a year, I finally decided *to* go with TGATB - but using it in my own way. It’s not the be all end all, it’s not the only thing we use, and I’m using mostly the free PDFs - and just printing out the sheets that I feel my son needs to do. We struggled with science and their units (the ‘old’ versions) are working amazingly. Their simply math is taking out so much repetition that we were fighting with Horizons. But we’re also needing All About Reading/Spelling, SOTW, AIG for Bible, and lots of extra read alouds. I love the idea of pulling from sonlight’s booklists for inspiration!
I’m SOOOO tired of all of the drama surrounding TG&TB. It’s wonderful. The company is very generous. Is it a good fit for everyone? Of course not! No curriculum is. I have loved TG&TB for some of my kids, I have loved IEW, I love Sonlight, etc. That’s the beauty of having an eclectic style and using what works for each child! As for “convictions”? There are plenty of Christian curricula and companies that have different ways of presenting Christian beliefs and morals. I don’t see everyone up in arms about those ones!
Agree. I use both TGATB along with my fathers world. An in those my fathers world groups they get down right nasty about TGATB. Like they block people from their groups for using it. We have used it over 3 years. An have done research when we found out about the creators belief. She works with a huge team of people that all come from different sections of Christianity to make it not just 1 group’s opinion, but very general. An moral. What I don’t understand is those that are still using and encouraging parents to use ABC mouse. They are for and found the church of Scientology. Made by the founder. TGATB doesn’t go to found the church of Mormon. They actually found it to give back to the homeschooling community to bring free curriculum to families. 🤷🏽♀️ if we found once they it tried to bring the Mormon ideology, we would drop it. But they are very careful not to. Since her team spends many who aren’t Mormon.
Exactly. I’m appalled by the way people speak about TGTB as a company as well as how they judge Jenny Phillips. I think she is classy and handles things with grace.
I don't understand why they get so much hate. They're literally giving you their hard work for FREE! I just don't understand. Especially in these hard times! It's great!
This has been on my heart for a bit now. I strive to give my kids a homeschool education & life centered on Christ. In good judgment & discernment I cannot justify using a curriculum founded by a Mormon. They do not believe in the same Jesus of the Bible. Regardless if it's free or fantastic or whatever, Satan twists & deceives. Be careful Christian friends🙏🏼❤️
@@juliacarter1280 Exactly. The people that make the video's with false claims don't even take the time to fact check any of the claims by downloading and going through the free curriculum before making the video. This is all for views.
I hope people understand that using any curriculum, including The Good and the Beautiful isn't supposed to be "clicky" or as if you're giving your 'alegence' to some private club. Curriculum is meant to be a tool. RUclips had been a great blessing to be able to research and see so many items and curriculum before purchasing. However, I think it has also opened up other doors, which does not bring love and peace. Curriculum is supposed to encourage, inspire, teach our children by helping and equipping parents on this homeschooling journey. I use the Good and the Beautifu in our home, here in Israel. I also useabout five or six other wonderful curriculums. We use different curriculums to fill the needs of our eight children. They are each so different and with different learning styles. I used to be strictly Charlotte Mason in our homeschool and there is definitely "clicky" CM groups out there as well. However, we are not CM purists anylonger. So for us,TGATB has a blessing. We still uphold to CM values like; “Education is an atmosphere, a discipline, and a life". Also, living books, copywork, dictation, narration, short lessons (we use timers!), Appreciation for nature, art, music, good habits and loving and honoring parents, and most importantly their relationship with Yeshua. I find, these values are all what I have seen with regards to The Good and the Beautiful. I have never seen any LDS teachings in this curriculum. From my understanding, there are more Evangelical Christians editing this curriculum and they all feel 100% satisfied with what they do. We also have done Usborne books in our homeschool. Do you also read Usborne? We have to go through the books first and make sure that there are no naked people, that there is no evolution or any teachings we do not agree with in our home. We have never found this to be something we have to do with The Good and the Beautiful, quite the contrary.
Exactly! I’m definitely a TGTB user and lover and had been before I knew of controversy, but it 1,000% up to each individual family what suits their needs. No one else should be dictating what another family does or doesn’t use.
I just want to say thank you. I've been using TGTB and started struggling with if we should continue us it. Ive prayed and last week I decided to drop it. (I did find it a great curriculum and my kids did well with it) I was still doubting if I made the right decision, God is so good tho and I needed to hear this. Thank you so much ❤️
@@LivingWithEve for my 2 1st graders- All About Reading, Explode the code and Mastersbook for Math (we started the year off with MB, so we picked up were we had left off) 5th grader- IEW Fix it Gammar & Structure & Style,so far we're loving it. We did the free trail and now just waiting for the full program to arrive (scheduled to arrive Friday Yay) and we went back to Soaring with Spelling. She's been doing Teaching Textbooks since September. Kindergarten were doing Rod & Staff and CLE This is my 1st year homeschooling and it has been an interesting ride lol My youngest has down syndrome as well (that what attracted me to your channel) she'll be starting school this coming September (part-time)
We definitely have religious convictions regarding TGTB which is our MAIN reason for not using it. We even tried it once and the conviction was digging at me the whole time. We used it for 30 lessons and I couldn't do it anymore. I appreciate this video so much because I feel like anytime you Google or search curricula on RUclips, it's the first thing that pops up. It's so hard to find thorough reviews for other curricula and when it's constantly there in every search you do, it's hard to not get FOMO. It's so hard not to feel like you're missing out. Especially when it is so aesthetically pleasing and beautiful looking. Thank you so much for sharing this video.
I agree. We tried it a few years ago and I ended up selling it less than half way through the year. I just couldn’t do it. I didn’t see anything in the curriculum that I found offensive but the thought was nagging me. I keep looking at their website but in the end it wasn’t a good fit for us.
By any chance would you explain the conviction. I know that’s an odd question but my friend and I both homeschool and we’ve been looking into purchasing TGTB. Our conversation last night was actually the “beliefs” of the curriculum. We neither one was sure of it but we stand tall in our faith and don’t won’t anything that would possibly cause confusion the kids!
@@LivingWithEve Hi. I usually keep to myself, but I am very confused about the "drama" concerning the religious beliefs of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints that a lot of you on here are referring to. Maybe I could help clarify? I am a member of this Church, and I am extremely confused by all the comments. We can be friends!
Wanted to come and recommend Apologia as a faith based math curriculum too. I know they are widely known for their science, but we have been giving their math a try this year and my son loves it. He has been doing level 2. It's very hands on and very gentle lessons. There are lots of games and activities built in. He has ADHD so hands on, games, and activities help him stay engaged with the lesson.
I could NOT care LESS about the religious background of Jenny Smith. Not at all. I have found NOTHING that strikes me as Mormon philosophy or anything other than very generic Christian teachings in TGATB products. I have no time or energy to research the backgrounds of every single writer of every single curriculum we use, therefore I’m not going to hone in on this one product because this one creator is open about their beliefs. That said, we are also not using TGATB any longer. While it’s probably one of the strongest free products on the market I found the reading comprehension and writing instruction to be very weak. Personal opinion, but I just think there are better products out there if you can afford them. I’m glad TGATB exists; it makes homeschooling a very easy and accessible thing to many families. I simply encourage people to USE the free downloads and judge the CONTENT of the program vs the religious background of the creator. Simplest and most sure fire way to get an answer on whether it’s right for you specifically.
Totally agree! It's wrong for anyone to say that a certain curriculum or style is the ONLY way to teach their kids. There's no perfect curriculum so everyone needs to choose what works for them. We love TGTB but we also do Classical Conversations and while those two things work for us, I would never tell another mama how to school her kids. I'm sorry people are so mean about homeschool curriculum. 🤦 You shouldn't have to feel nervous. ❤️
I use TGATB and classical conversations and both curriculum works hand-to-hand. That is what works for us. Yet it may not work for someone else. Also on the math part it covers the same concepts as other curriculums like Saxon. L.A. covers the same as the Essentials program in cc.
I told you why we don’t use it. Which was a mix of all the drama behind it. Also because I was already established with other curriculum and I simply don’t need it. It’s not that I don’t like it, it’s that I don’t use it. I also included curriculum that someone can use instead of TGATB if they want to avoid it. There is a lot of unneeded pressure behind using it.
Thank you for this! I both love and loathe the fact that there are so many amazing curricular options for homeschoolers!! It’s a very nice problem to have. 😍
This was so well done & the homeschool community needs to hear this! If it works for you, great, if it doesn’t, there are a multitude of other curriculum out there that will get the job done. Personally, I have never been attracted to TGTB, all controversy put aside. It just has never looked like something that would work for my kids with special needs (too busy, longer lessons, too much fluff). That being said, I am currently using TGTB preschool with my special needs 7.5 yr old as we attempt to learn letters and sounds. He’s making (some) progress! When I pick curriculum I have two things in mind: what is going to meet the need of my child? What is something that will work well for me in this season of homeschool? And I pick that & run with it. Good job for you for putting this out there!!!
We love the good and the Beautiful. My son loves to learning and is so easy. I like the spiral system because I myself tent to forget things. As a Christian though I will choose a different one for science and History. But we truely love the Good and the beautiful La and Math.
TGTB is definitely not the end all be all, and the drama surrounding it is unnecessary. I agree, if it doesn't work for you, move on. Nothing wrong with that! There is so much out there that works just as well. ❤️
Loved this video! We started with TGTB for almost everything and now we use completely different curriculum because it was what my son really needed. We all have to figure out what will work best based on our children’s needs, not what’s popular!
I used TG&TB as an add on to Timberdoodle and it worked out. Left Abeka and am unsure if we will use Abeka again for the 4th grade. Love your videos and all the help you send out to all us MaMa’s❤️
I love love love your approach with the video! You handled the topic with such grace and love and I hope all see that and don’t give you a rough time for speaking in such a hot button topic. We choose to not use it for convictions as well. I’m well acquainted with the LDS community, as I have close neighbors who are, and have studied so much about their beliefs so I can be a light to them and have fun and fruitful conversations. 😊 For this reason, we’ve decided to not support or promote TGTB.
Thanks so much for this video. I love that Math U See teaches to "mastery" but we have never had the testing issues I've heard people mention! We have been using Math U See since the beginning and as we finish 6th and 3rd grade, both of my kids just tested significantly above the "average" in our state testing...
That’s actually awesome! That means the kids are really laying a strong foundation with Math U See and are able to apply it to more difficult math. Awesome!
Thanks for sharing! I have used TGATB over the years, but honestly it didn’t teach everything logically enough for me (specifically their LA and math). I like the beauty, but don’t need all the fluff… so we are big fans of Logic of English and Math U See… much more to the point, logical, and the progression just made sense. I’m also really loving Math with Confidence by Kate Snow for my kindergartner! I’m super impressed with that math curriculum and plan to continue it with my youngest. I do like the shorter unit style of TGATB science, but prefer something like Apologia as my kids get older.
This was perfect timing, as I'm really struggling on if we should continue TGTB. I could be giving my money to companies that do follow my beliefs. I've got 2 currently using the LA, 2 using the Math, and 3 that will use the LA next year (I already bought the high school level 😬), but I'm not sure what to do. I struggle a lot with making this decision.
Lol! I love you Ashley! Yeah... definitely not CM. I can see how it's CM "inspired," which is what they say, but not pure CM. I actually think it fits well with a few different styles. It sits well with Classical and somewhat with Traditional too. We use a little bit of everything in this crazy house! I just like ALL things! Lol! ❤️
Yes, Dina!! After using TGTB for several years, I think it’s mostly on the traditional side. I do see how it fits classical too, for sure! I agree, though, it can fit many different styles 😊
The Good and the Beautiful has a lot of controversy because a certain blogger/you tuber slammed them after she decided to create her own curriculum. Before that, said blogger praised them for years. Said blogger claims to be Christian but doesn't act in a Christ like manner when slamming another company. I don't know why Christians don't mind using secular curriculum such as Logic of English or All About Reading, but they sway away from TGTB because of controversy. We have no idea what these secular curriculum companies believe. They don't put their worldview out there but we are trusting their curriculum and slamming, or simply not using someone else's, and making video's telling the world why, simply because they come from a different religious background. How is it different using curriculum that may have been created by someone who is atheist? Because we don't know that they are atheist?
Yes, we all heard what happened with Rebecca. But the controversy was there without her. TGATB is owned and founded by a Mormon. For many Christians this is a big deal and many have called her out as bringing subtle Mormon influence into the curriculum. I live by a specific rule, if I do not connect with the curriculum author, I don’t use. I think everyone should do the same. The author is really a major influence in your child’s life. With the exception of math and phonics, I do not use secular curriculum.
@@LivingWithEve Please show me where the subtle Mormon influence is. I am a Christian. I have their math, language arts, science, and handwriting and I don't see anything that isn't verbatim, King James from my own bible. There is no "subtle Mormon influence" in the curriculum at all. That is what issue I have. People make their video's having never used the curriculum. It isn't fair to make a video influencing other to not use something if you haven't used it yourself. I know that is not what your intention is, but you said you wouldn't use it based on the controversy and drama that surrounds it. That's fine, but why make the video at all?
I appreciate your take on this so much! I run in the middle with TGTB. We started out our homeschooling with one thing we hated, and TGTB was a good place for us to land at the time with LA and Math. We're finishing up our second year homeschooling, and our 1.5 year of TGTB. I always was very cautious with the religious side of it, and though many say there's no LDS influence, it is there a bit, especially in the History (which I quit mid year because I really disliked the LDS influence in it). My oldest is wrapping up the second LA, and while it's been good, we're switching to all new LA curriculum for next year for her (my youngest will continue through TGTB LA through the second level since she likes it, and we have it). It is a good curriculum, but I found once it started adding geography that it was almost TOO many subjects incorporated, and I realized that I could cover it (in my opinion) a much better way for my family. I'm grateful TGTB was there when we got started because it gave me the confidence that I could homeschool, but now that I'm more confident, I'm having so much fun finding the curricula that really fits our family best (and for us it's going toward a blend of CM and some classical). We're going to use IEW's Fix It Grammar next year, and I'm so excited for a new approach there!
I just stumbled across this video and had my husband send it to my account simply so I could comment…thank you for the review you gave! I am LDS and I get so overwhelmed sometimes by the love and hate it gets. Use it or not, your choice as the mom- ya don’t have to be mean about the founder of the curriculum. 😅 Anyway, I thought your perspective was honest, kind, and thoughtful. Thank you!! also, i ordered the benny bagels book and cant wait to read it with my kiddos! ❤ happy wednesday
Thank you for your video! Hope you all are safe with this hurricane 🙏. I bought TGATB last year for my first grade son and I couldn't teach him language art with those books. Maybe because English is my second language and I never had experience how to learn English as child. But I really like their math. My son loves it too. This year we started kindergarten with my daughter. I really like curriculum from Generations. This year is the first year they published Phonics book. I love it! It's very easy for me to teach her how to read. Also they have God's big story reading and activity books for all elementary school grades. They are stories from the Bible.
This is a fantastic video, as always, thank you! The Good and the Beautiful has just recently released "Heath and the Human Mind " with a lot of mental health material covered and three extra books for grade 7 and grade 8. I'd appreciate a video, looking at the homeschool options for teenage mental health , ranging from gentle to more intensely academic. The other topic they had a unit study for was human relationships/reproduction. Looking at the sample pages, they do "go there" with the internet and older students with more mature content. Both unit studies looked very gentle for grade 7/8 students and families wanting to deal with difficult topics. My only comparison so far is Apologia's Human Anatomy, which we are currently doing - is not the same sort of content as Mental Health, being more science based and less social thinking based. Apologia looks to have that in their Grade 9 Health study, but a lot more academic and rigorous... not quite ready for that with an unworldly students in our homes... which is a very long winded way of saying that there is a place in my heart for beautiful, gentle curriculums dealing with mental health and human reproduction for sensitive children and teens🙂
I felt like you titles this wrong in my opinion. You went in and pretty much said how amazing TGTB is and then don’t use it because there is drama made by worldly people about it. Not convincing at all
Thats not what I said, watch it again. You misunderstood things. I am not trying to convince you to not use it. That’s not my job in this video. My purpose is to provide you with options if you don’t want to use it. That came at the end. I did tell you why we don’t use it. It was because of all the drama and because we had so much other curriculum that we already enjoyed. (It is based after a video I did about a year ago where I was attempting to use the good and the beautiful, I unboxed it, only to find that I did not want to use it.) There is also a lot of pressure to use TGATB from the community and I’m saying you don’t have to. If you have convictions for whatever reason, don’t put yourself under that pressure, there is so much more out there. Also if someone chooses to use it, I fully support that. But don’t use it because you think it’s the only option.
I am using tGtB for little booster for kids to love the schooling. I think it's good for young kids, but you are so right on it's your choice on what to use. My girls love LA from them but I also use Abeka to reinforce reading and phonics (teaching 4yr and 6yr the k and 1st-who is more of 4th grade reading). It is so hard to choose right curriculum for your student/kids and it gets pricey
I always feel like I’m missing out with not using TGTB. Everytime I look at it though, I’m just like doesn’t look much different than what I’m doing, either than it’s beautiful! Any thoughts on learning language arts through literature for my fourth grader. I’m leaning towards this, because I love the philosophy and love the independence factor. I would do Sonlight, looks very teacher intensive tho and I have four soon to be five children. Any advice?
I will say learning language arts through literature is a little bit behind academically, and would probably be easy for your fourth grader if she is on target or head. Don’t feel bad about not using the gun in the beautiful. There is so many different curriculum out there that this is just one of them. You’re not missing out. I don’t know if you’re looking for Christian based curriculum, but Generations is also really good one. You might want to also look at master books, however, that one is also a little bit behind academically.
*I find it extremely hard to understand why out of all the homeschooling curriculums, this is the one and only one you personally get attacked about if you don’t like it!* Time and time again, I have watched so many that have made a video not liking it and the comments are atrocious, I *haaaaaaated* the curriculum, and so did our kids, not only because she is Mormon, but because the curriculum itself sucked. It was all over the place, some have said that they’ve revised it so it’s better now? Regardless, you will find people that use other curriculums be encouraged that it’s okay to abandon it and find something else, *HOWEVER* when it comes to TGTB, you are not allowed to not like it?! It’s seriously gross, and I do find it hard to swallow that Christians use the curriculum, and I have heard it said to me that there are Christian curriculums that I wouldn’t 100% agree with on everything, but there’s a big difference between the 2 religions, huge in fact as far as Christ is concerned.
I noticed that too! Definitely can discern a spiritual battle when it comes to this curriculum. Over my 12 years of homeschooling, and many different choices to choose from, I have never seen this battle over any other company or personal curriculum choices! Thanks for sharing and being honest!! ❤
@@shegathers6120 "But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it." Matthew 7:14. Compromising is not a good idea when there are so many other great curriculum choices to choose from. Not that I have made every choice perfectly through the years, I am glad some of us are speaking out.
It's because Mormons get testy about Christ. They want people to believe they are Christians. Why do you think there's been a huge push to be called "Latter-day Saints of Jesus Christ" and not Mormons anymore? 🤔 But if anyone with enough critical thought digs into what Mormons truly believe, they will see that the Christ they follow is not the Jesus Christ of the Christian bible. I don't care either way. Believe in what you believe in but don't hide under a false label. And certainly don't be upset when you get called out for it! 😅
Ironically as new homeschooler, I find the drama interesting esp after I learned TGTB have a diversity panel and are redoing their history to add “hard but true facts” to highlight the bad things about historical figures with the help of that DEI board. Then their last curriculum video had a blue hair half shaved lady. So maybe the controversy was a little bit of a warning for those trying to escape a certain ideology.
Considering how many of us are trying to get away from what public schools are doing (cough D E I and shaved blue hair and everything that tends to come with it), and hearing about all THAT lately with TGTB...I'm glad we passed on it. Edit: And as far as diversity goes, I can teach that myself. Unlike most, it won't be simply Black History and Native American Studies while ignoring everything else. I'm talking ACTUAL diversity and REAL history.
I started my oldest with MUS and used Primer, Alpha, Beta, and most of Gamma. I switched her into Singapore Math and I agree that the switch is not smooth, I did see a drop in her test scores just during that time and she had to adjust but is now thriving and DID get an amazing number sense and understanding of place value and other foundational concepts.
I haven't even watched this yet (I'm about to) but I have to say I just ditched it after two kids, two full years. I was SO BORED from it. Also, my son never progressed in his writing, at all. It was way too vague. I had to supplement Spelling as well. So I did a ton of research and am switching him to Essentials in Writing, and Literature Treasures from Catholic Heritage (it is wonderful, exactly what I was looking for and cheap!)
TGTB language arts curriculum is robust, the science is NOT. I LOOOOVE TGTB for Language Arts, so far history and science have been busts for me and I am very unimpressed. Science book covers grade 3-8...the difference between 3rd graders and 8th grades is so large that teaching the same concepts between that group makes no sense, and it left my 6 year old unchallenged.
I just recently bought the TGATB handwriting for my 7th grader. He needs extra cursive practice. I am going to use Handwriting to see if I like it. There's not much Christian/nonChristian about handwriting so I think I am good with the Bible thing. I also want to use their drawing books. I have a son who likes to draw right now we are using easy peasy but I saw some of the TGATB and I like the drawing books so I am going to "get my feet with it" with those two.
Great video. We tried TG&TB a couple of times but each time changed to something else. We used the LA when it first came out and again when they revised L3. But I find the all-in-one doesn't work for us. The reading was too simple, as was the spelling, the writing was OK and the grammar was intense (we used L1 when she was 5). We needed different programs for the different components of LA to teach where she was at. We have liked the science units and the handwriting but there are other ones we have liked just as much. We tried the new math last year and I have to say the video component was excellent. But after a trial of 30 lessons I gave my daughter several options and she wanted Masterbooks. (This is a kid who does ok with math but doesn't like it). Since we are not in the States, pdfs have benefits and theirs are free. But with the beautiful artwork and glorious colors (which is what always grabs me) it costs an absolute fortune in ink to print.
I saw on another video that you had done BJU. What do you think of their curriculum, especially their math? I started my kids with Christian Light math but switched to BJU. I liked CLE but was told by a couple homeschooling moms that if you are going to switch in the higher grades, it’s best to switch curriculum in the younger grades. It goes much smoother. So that’s what I did. My two oldest I switched and then my youngest I just started him off with BJU. I use BJU for English too because I can get the videos. I am so terrible at English and my kids learn better from the videos with English.
Hello! I really enjoy following you on RUclips, and appreciate much of your advice regarding homeschool. With that said, I'm not quite sure I understand the purpose of this video. It seems somewhat clickbait because the good and the beautiful is such a controversial curriculum. I do agree with you that there are many different curriculum that are of equal intellectual caliber when compared to the good and the beautiful, but I don't think that makes those necessarily a better choice than the good and the beautiful. I think perhaps your motive behind making this video didn't come across as clearly as it could have. I believe all homeschool families have different needs and that is the benefit of having so many different options nowadays. I guess my opinion is that it was sufficient to say the good and the beautiful didn't work for your family and to probably leave it at that. I did however appreciate that you weren't portraying this curriculum in a negative light, but that being said I don't really see what was to be gleaned from this video in general. As a disclaimer I do want to say I'm not trying to be harsh, I just think given your position as a homeschool advocate to so many people you have to be so mindful about what is put out on the internet.
Because there was a video a year ago, I did an unboxing on TGATB with full intention of using, however it didn’t work for me. As a result there were so many hate comments. Lots of email discussions, insults, the list goes on. It wasn’t a great video so I wanted to do some kind of follow up. I think you’re reading into a bit. My philosophy is this: Every family is different, the beauty of homeschooling is that you find what is best for you. This is my opinion. And for those families that have convictions (and there are a lot of families struggling) don’t using it, there is other stuff out there that may work for you. Here’s are some ideas. I never say they are better, I’m saying you have options. Drama, pressure, whatever, should not dictate what you use. You dictate what you use, guide by prayer. Yes, TGATB is clickbait, by nature, but I am beyond that. I want to speak my thoughts and to real emotions and struggles. TGATB has a lot of drama attached and many parents are feeling the pressure of doing it when their convictions, or thoughts, or maybe they just want to homeschool differently… those things are telling them not to use it. I want families to use what God is guiding them to use. If it’s TGATB, Great!! But if it’s something else, they’re should be no insecurities. I want families to feel free to choose. Maybe also because you have not been wrapped up in the drama, that’s awesome! Because there is a lot, and honestly as evaluator, I have seen tears over this because of internal struggles. I had a parent once tell me with tears, “Thank you, because for so long I thought I really had no other choice.” She thought that she had to use TGATB because it was the only curriculum out there that could teach her child what they needed to meet requirements.
I agree, I just think it’s a long video instead of saying “hey, this didn’t work for us” and leave it at that. Love your videos, but I agree, this seemed a bit much. Kind turned me off, overkill.
@@LivingWithEve I found that your video from last year was just as good as the one you put out today. I love watching your videos and found them when I was first starting up, but I too found this clickbaity cause of the time when people are doing the most research. The only people I hear talking about drama with TGTB are people who don't use it. Honestly I have never seen any drama. Just "it didn't work for me cause kids like this one better, or I like this one better. (probably the algorithm) Can you link me to some of it so I can see what people are talking about?
I’m a bit uncomfortable linking the videos here, But you could search The Good and style Beautiful Drama or Homeschool On or even the constitution. But it’s not worth digging into it. However most drama happens in the comment sections… and after speaking with many other we all do the same thing… delete. I deleted a lot of hateful messages, insults, ect.. I did keep a few mild ones, but that is because they were mild. The LDS community is very defensive of this curriculum and unfortunately, some get aggressive. It’s very sad. It’s hurts their community more than helps. I have a pretty thick skin too, and I can tolerate a lot, I am also very moldable and willing to admit if something I did was wrong, but this got out of hand. And some comments from my last video, even though they were untrue, stung.
@@CCgirl2083 Most of the drama revolves around the fact that the creator of the good and the beautiful is a part of the Church of Jesus Christ of latter-day saints, more commonly known as mormons. I know that this is something that the company has addressed many times in voicing that they do not teach any doctrine that their churches hold to. I am not a part of LDS so I researched the company myself because I did not want their beliefs being taught in curriculum I used for my children. That being said, I think the drama is blown way out of proportion because many people recommend curriculum from companies like Christian Light or Rod and Staff when they themselves are not mennonites. There seems to be so much controversy only around the good and the beautiful, and I think that that drama is totally unnecessary. I think as homeschooling parents we should prayerfully choose all of our curriculum, never be pressured into using anything that goes against our conscience. The good and the beautiful has been a great choice for our family for math curriculum. I probably wouldn't use a Bible curriculum put out by that company because my biblical beliefs differ from theirs. But in regards to academics, I think that they are right up there with other excellent homeschool curriculum choices. I think the best choice is to be an advocate for parents thoroughly researching curriculum before they choose it so that they can feel confident in their choices.
So we have loved tgtb for my daughter. Math is not her strong suit and she does best w tgtb math. That being said, I'm looking for an alternative math that teaches similarly. I've heard Math with Confidence could be a good choice. Anyone here have experience w that? Thanks! Ps, I've had My Fathers World K sitting on a shelf since I tried the first week w my daughter and it was so overwhelming I moved onto tgtb. Which was easy enough for a 1st time mama! But my heart is on the more until study hands on style. Will try again w MFW K for my up and coming K guy this year.🙌🙏
❤ I have dyslexia so when I’m teaching my kids TGTB is great cuz my brain 🧠 doesn’t go 🫥 when trying to teach it and other curriculum is very bland on the teacher part and it makes me wanna scream 😂 and my kids have adhd and dyslexia and asd and they are doing well with that it works for us I’m not religious so I just change words and what not to make it secular
@@Genny1992 I found out! It’s racism. They previously had no bipoc in their curriculum at all and even had to pull one of their history units from the market due to MAGA type “glory days” talk about the constitution era. 🥴 pretty bad! But they’ve said they’re trying to improve
@@cccccc202. that is one thing, but it’s not the controversy that has most Christian homeschoolers up in arms. It’s the fact that the cheater of TGATB is LDS and a prominent leader of the Mormon church. Although the curriculum has zero LDS teachings and is reviewed by Christian editors of multiple denominations to be sure it’s truly nondenominational, people do not trust it and I guess feel like something could be “snuck in.” As far as the racism goes, that was unfortunately a much smaller controversy, but it has been well addressed by the company. They now have a diversity panel that help edit the history courses for accuracy, and apparently based on comments I’ve seen here and on other videos, that’s a “bad thing” too. Personally I like TGATB so far (my learners are very young though. We haven’t even made it to the history and science grades yet. So far just math and lit.) and the fact that Jenny Lewis seems to be doing a lot make her curriculum accessible (and affordable) and accurate, is a plus for me.
I didn’t hear you recommend abeka. Is it a reason it didn’t fall in your favorites? I am trying to switch to tgtb thinking of all the plus of material integrated in LA but what about abeka?
I am actually not a fan of ABEKA, for me. It is a very good curriculum, and will cover everything. Even more than everything. It’s too much for me. I just want flexibility in my curriculum. I also am not a fan of their pictures.
@@LivingWithEve I know, it has too much added to the curriculum to buy as a group. I wish they eliminate the big parent led book and just include the instructions in the child’s book.
I have a question I am going to be starting to homeschool my sixth grader. He struggles in reading and I wanted to help him with reading and gain confidence in reading as well. Thanks so much.
If we are doing homeschool through a public school, can we still add books from other companies to help them in let’s say math? I feel that this company is starting my granddaughter out too high & not starting from the beginning of math & slowing down so that she can comprehend what they are trying to teach. She’s only in Kindergarten but I feel they’re starting off at the last 4wks . She’s so lost & I’m having to go back & start actually from scratch. Even in her language. It’s like she’s already in 1st & 2nd grade. I just need some help bc I don’t want her to stay lost and do bad on her tests when I can do something else to help her. I live in Alabama & don’t know anyone who homeschool their kids.
So that is hard. I wonder if Alabama has a homeschool convention you could attend to connect with others in your area. You can for sure add whatever you want to the curriculum, but really be aware of how much you give her because it may be too much. Honestly you may also want to consider full homeschooling so you can really take charge of her education. Just a thought?
She’s full homeschooling now. Her old school wants to know way too much when u take ur child out. I do understand about putting too much work in front of them. She only gets a couple of subjects but we also play games with her phonic flash cards & some other cards, color by #s, etc. She’s not realizing she’s learning several things at one time.
@@chrismichellehall9616I just checked the H S L D A site and don't understand how they could be asking "way too much" in AL. Good luck. Hope it's going better now.
We are full homeschooling since I took her out of her online school. She no longer cries when it's time to start bc we start whenever we want. She now loves to learn. We are using Hooked On Phonics. We love that it not only has apps for them to learn in stages, but they send books in stages. She loves this company. in a couple of yrs at the most, I'll be buying books through other companies like this one. I'm also printing off extra copies for 3 grandbabies next in line starting school.
The only curriculum I’ve been tempted to use from TGTB is their typing program because I like that it’s book based not an online program. Do you know of any other typing curriculums that aren’t an online program? I really don’t want to use TGTB.
The majority of Christians that use TGATB have not really dug deep into what Mormons believe and how they believe in a false God. And that’s what the curriculum is based on at its core. I Don’t know how any Christian that knows this could use it and not feel the Holy Spirit convicting you every time you opened it up. Just because it’s “vague” does not make it right.
I am a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, (Mormon) and I'm not sure what you mean by false God, but we believe that Jesus Christ is our Savior and that God is our Heavenly Father who loves each of us. Pretty similar to most Christians. Just so you know. :)
@@kellie-joisraelsen6878 Not to debate about who is right, but just to answer your question since no one answered it.... To Christians, God is un-created. He is eternal, all-knowing, all-powerful, and Ominipresent. He is also a Trinity (3 in one: Holy Spirit, Jesus and Father God all at the same time). He also does not have a created body. To Christians, Man is saved by faith alone and not by his works. Also, Christians believe in a literal eternal hell for those who did not put their faith in Jesus' atoning sacrifice on their behalf. Christians also do not believe in multiple levels of heaven. Of course there is much more, but just wanted to make sure you got an answer to your question, while keeping it as factual and objective as possible. I say this with love ❤.
LA has been the biggest struggle at my house. We’re finishing TGTB LA 4. I’m trying to decide rather to go on to level 5 or try something else. We’ve tried a lot already though. Structure and style with fix it (he hated SS, but like fix it). We’ve tried sonlight, and CLE….any LA recommendations for the boy who just finds LA a drag?
We just finished level 4 and we are switching from tgatb. I looked at level 5 and it is not up my son's alley. I settled on fix it grammar, and essentials in writing. He will also read books on the side that we both agree on. He is very hopeful for next year now!
What about Learning Language Arts Through Literature. You'll have to flip through it to see his level. Also do a mix literature for comprehension or something like Moving Beyond the Pages (that's more of unit study and comprehension) then you can using Evan Moore or Soaring Through Spelling / Growing With Grammar to do a quick teach pn the technical stuff.
@@LivingWithEve we’re going to try the Robison curriculum. I’m pretty excited because it’s unlike doing traditional public school work and I think that’s what they need.
I’m curious as to what one means by “controversy” seeing how most of the proceeds are going to charity to fund underprivileged individuals to receive education. Nothing in the curriculum fosters hatred or immoral theology (but the opposite), exhibits religious overtones shared by many Christian denominations, and is a collaborative effort by a team of over 70 individuals of diverse theological upbringing… yet people want to abandon it due to discrimination of the owner?… What happened to, “by their fruits?” If you actually get to know the people involved in how this curriculum came together,manifested by a little research, you may find that these people are pretty amazing and doing so much benefit for everyone (regardless of their religious upbringing). If one doesn’t use it because it doesn’t work for them scholastically - I get it. If others don’t want to use it just because the owner is LDS (an individual who seems to only manifest love, inspiration and charity)- that’s bigotry, intolerance, and divisiveness.
Many people do not want to use the curriculum because their faith is different than that of LDS. It’s a personal conviction and we have a right to make that decision. It is not a personal attack on the founder or anyone who writes it. That is not bigotry.
@@LivingWithEveI do not disagree with using one’s agency and choice. That has nothing to do with my statement above. What I stated and you did not answer was this: Can you clarify why you believe this curriculum to be so “controversial”? As you have stated numerous times? If one were to assess the curriculum content - There is nothing in the curriculum geared towards LDS doctrine (aside from the founder’s faith in Jesus Christ and God- which is universal for all Christians). Therefore, why one feels uncomfortable with using this curriculum (aside from scholastic structure and flow) has everything to do with the founder’s personal belief and not wanting to support a whole company personally because of it. The only controversy here are individuals who are creating drama over nothing represented in said curriculum. So be honest with your statements- You do not support members of the LDS faith and would rather put money somewhere else. No different than you not wanting to go to a bakery because of the baker’s personal belief. Could the cake be perfectly fine? Of course, but one’s choice to not support someone based on a difference of belief that doesn’t affect you personally has a certain definition. And perhaps, when one tries to slander their reputation, with no moral standing or evidence, is another thing entirely. One can only judge for oneself if that is leaning towards dishonest, divisive, or bigoted.
You would have a point if it was strictly because of the founder’s beliefs, however that is not the issue, there are things that are in the curriculum that are part of the LDS faith that are not Christian. At least from the perspective from the people who do not want to use the curriculum. That is basis of the controversy. LDS and Christianity are different.
@@LivingWithEve that is exactly my point (the intolerance with no cause part). I’m not going to pretend to judge the hearts and minds of people, nor you because I have a lot of LDS friends and they are mischaracterized/misunderstood all the time. I would say that Latter Day Saints actually have the name of “Christ” in their name (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints) and their slogan is a picture of Jesus Christ. To believe in Christ means to be “Christian.” What people might not know is that it is just a different sect of Christianity; they just believe that a lot of the Christian doctrine fell apart through time (during the apostasy) and became tainted down the line when there was no actual prophet (with authority from God) on the earth to correct people for a time. But that is another story for debate and I’m sure if we all took the time to understand one another more, we may find that the whole of Christianity (with all its sects) has more in common than not. No one needs to agree 100% with all theology (again choice should be yours) but we can all at least banish incorrect assumptions and replace it with facts. The company actively took out all the differences in doctrine part and kept the collective unity or foundational principles of Christianity on purpose. Essentially, meeting everyone in the middle. Hence, all different religions coming together to form the curriculum (which I think is opposite of controversial). Hopefully we can better understand each other with our thoughts on this. Just know I do honestly ask questions to understand more. So I hope this message leaves you with peace of mind.
@@No.Coincidences I see how you're trying to stir ish up by using "bigot" incorrectly. LOL C'mon, man. To clarify, "One's choice to not support someone based on a difference of belief" is called FREEDOM OF CHOICE. No where did she say she hates all Mormons and/or the founder of TGaB because she's Mormon. To say so would definitely make her a bigot. But, she didn't say that did she? It's her time, her children and her money so she's absolutely free to distance herself from any curriculum or product with a foundation that doesn't align with her beliefs. Most, if not all, Bible-believing Christian denominations reject the idea that Mormons are Christians (note I didn't say hate or reject Mormons, just the idea that they fall under the true definition of Christian). There are HUGE fundamental differences between Mormons and Christians. Christians don't believe in Kolob, spirit children, that Jesus and Satan are brothers, that there are multiple heavens, multiple gods, etcetera. Y'all have a whole other book, cover to cover, full of differences! Be free to worship as you see fit but don't go around calling someone a bigot and intolerant because they want to distance themselves from your beliefs. Plain and simple, ma'am.
We just print out the pages we like and are OK with from TGATB and then Abeka. I don’t need charlotte mason. I need interesting books and skill development
I would look into Orton-Gillingham for dyslexia and even read some book and videos that will teach you how to teach them. For example: I would have them learn cursive ... that's if they have only dyslexia. And for dysgraphia I would introduce typing. Do you know what specific learning disabilities it is? Is it both?
@@LivingWithEvethey both have dysgraphia, one has dyslexia and dysgraphoa. We are using OG for him, but I was wondering if you could recommend something to add to FIX IT to make it stronger (you mentioned it wasn't very strong)? I agree with you, but my kids have learned a lot from this curriculum and just want to know what I can add to make it more complete?
You must of watched an older IEW video. I really like the Fix It Grammar now, they updated it and it seems to be enough. However I have seen some people pair IEW with Well Trained Mind but when they do that they do not do Fix it too. I would agree, that would be a lot. Sometime it’s better to slow down with the curriculum you do have. I’m starting to realize, quality over quantity. Just a thought.
I just spent 80 or so dollars on their History curriculum. And I regret it wholeheartedly. While we've enjoyed the the LA books, the History is questionable due to their use of Bible stories as historical facts. I nearly choked when they said the Egyptians were descendants of Noah and that the Egyptians lost their knowledge of the one true God. I couldn't get past the first lesson and now idk what to do with this book.
Well, to be fair, Noah and his family were the only humans left after the Flood soooooo 🤷♀️ technically we're ALL descendants of Noah's then, aren't we? Unless I'm missing a chapter...not LDS, just confused on where the Egyptians would come from if not from Noah. Edit: Unless you're secular, in which case I get why you'd flinch at that lol but did you not know TGATB was religious when you bought it? Idk how anyone could miss that...LOL
I love MCP math for the younger years. MCP phonics is also well done to help kiddos strengthen skills. Pentime for Handwriting. Tons and tons of books.
Very helpful thanks so much. I am a fan of the good and beautiful. However, when it comes to math I think my child needs something more of a mastery style. And distracting.
Well, I haven’t used it but I’ve seen it. It is thorough. And it will cover almost everything. Anything ABEKA will do this. However, it doesn’t work for every child. Some will love it and others will find it difficult. ABEKA is a more traditional type curriculum, so it’s going to align with Public school standards. A lot of private schools will use it.
I'm confused. She stopped using it "because there's drama?" Not because she has an issue with it? I never heard of any actual issues presented. I'm genuinely confused, sonce i am considering using some of their curriculum.
It’s a type of schooling, a method so to speak. Just google it. You’ll find tons of info. But it’s all about learning from books, nature, journaling and teaching the whole child.
ok, teacher to teacher...I tried TGTB !st level and found several phonics mistakes. I was unimpressed. I loved everything else, but because of that I couldn't continue. That said, I've been waiting for the new updated versions. Curious to know if you found some issues with the phonics in the early levels. I've used Prek, K Primer, and First. First grade was where I started to see a few problems. ALSO, How does Gather Round compare, as I'm thinking of using the beginning levels with my youngest two for K.
Well, I did an update, but I didn't use the program. I did a flip through of it online, but I didn't dig deep into the phonics and only looked at the 4th grade one, so I didn't look at the Pre-K or early years. The update in more about why I'm not using it ever, other curriculums out there and addressing the "It's the best curriculum out there" thoughts. I do address the curriculum academically and I did find the structure (from an overview) to be good. Gather Round is different. Very different. However, if you didn't like TGATB for those reason, you will not like GR. The few times I've uses GR, it's been for a guide. I had to go deeper with living books and Pinterest taught science activities. There are mistakes in GR, factual mistakes. For example, she says that you will find crocodiles and alligators in Florida. I live in Florida, unless you go to a zoo, you will not find a crocodile. And any Floridian knows, this is basic information... crocodiles are no found in Florida. But there are plenty more mistakes. I even did a whole video on their "Passover Seder" from their Easter Unit study. It's not a Passover Seder but more of a reflection. But with that aside I have used GR. The pictures are beautiful, and the layout and format is so well done and touches on each topic well, they just don't go deep (and factual mistakes). I used it as an outline / planning tool more than a curriculum.
I mention Easy Peasy and Ambleside online. It depends on what age, there is Reading Eggs, Nessy, Time 4 Learning, Teaching Textbooks, ABC Mouse, Khan Academy, BJU has a program, Monarch just to name a few. But now a days almost every program has an online program.
What is the religious concern that people have with The Good and the Beautiful? Not trying to start an argument, just genuinely wondering. I have been looking at different curriculum for when my daughter starts kindergarten next year, and just wondering if there's anything I should be aware of.
TGATB is owned by someone from Church of LDS. It all depends on strongly you feel about that religion. Although some claim that there is nothing LDS influencing TGATB, others claim it’s subtle. It’s really up to you in the end, your religious / spiritual convictions. The biggest concern I have is how pushy some people can be about the curriculum. It’s created a lot of drama which puts a bad taste in my mouth. But that’s me.
@@LivingWithEve How many years of earnest study have you put in to researching about the beliefs of the LDS Church? I invite you to study and ponder the real teachings from our scriptures and leaders. Then, please take that up personally with God. And allow the rest to peacefully follow their own beliefs.
@@jonnypollero1195I didn't know any better until recently and yikes I'm staying far away from anything Mormon, sorry. Nothing against the people personally, just...nope.
My best friend uses TGATB LA because it is open-and-go, free, and incorporates enough pieces of other subjects that she feels confident adding math and calling that her spine for homeschooling. She's also doing the math for her youngest, and so far, it's working great.
We both find the elementary stuff to be just generically Christian enough to be fine.
I like their LA for preschool - colourful, gentle, varied. But once I get into actual learning to read and math, I prefer more systematic and to-the-point over the Charlotte Mason, so I like to use Logic of English (especially because I like being able to start cursive right from the beginning with that program) and Math-U-See.
Different styles work for different families, and I DO NOT understand why there is so much drama about it. Lol
I completely agreed about different styles work for different families... is that simple.
Also, I was excited to read that you are using the logic of English and math u see. After so much research these are the 2 curriculum I choose to start my daughter on reading and math (k level)
Seriously, people make their video's about it when they haven't even used it. It is available to download for free, yet they don't even take the time to download it all and look through it to find examples of what their claims are. They just make their video's stating they won't use it because " I don't need that kind of drama in my life" but by making the video for social media, they are asking for drama. It makes zero sense. It's more like, I need to post something controversy so I can get more views on my You Tube channel.
If you look hard enough, almost every company has some “controversy”. For us, it was the ONLY math my boys had success with long term. We’ve tried SO many others with little success. I love that we have the freedom to choose 😊
Thanks for sharing your personal experience and perspective.
Leilani I always enjoy hearing your thoughts and thanks for sharing ❤️ as someone who uses the good and the beautiful I still like hearing other moms thoughts and I feel like we shouldn't get offended with others opinions on "why a family" chooses this or that. We got to follow our journey and homeschooling style ... like you said the beauty of homeschooling is being able to choose what's best for your family. Thanks for sharing I think this will help many homeschooling families with your suggestions!
We have used TGATB LA for some time now and out of all the LA programs we like it so far with its' beautiful art illustrations and geography included. I have never felt pressured to use it nor felt like it was too religious one way or another. Just like you mentioned, it's great that as a homeschooler we have the freedom and flexibility to choose what fits best for us.
After struggling with this for over a year, I finally decided *to* go with TGATB - but using it in my own way. It’s not the be all end all, it’s not the only thing we use, and I’m using mostly the free PDFs - and just printing out the sheets that I feel my son needs to do. We struggled with science and their units (the ‘old’ versions) are working amazingly. Their simply math is taking out so much repetition that we were fighting with Horizons. But we’re also needing All About Reading/Spelling, SOTW, AIG for Bible, and lots of extra read alouds. I love the idea of pulling from sonlight’s booklists for inspiration!
I’m SOOOO tired of all of the drama surrounding TG&TB. It’s wonderful. The company is very generous. Is it a good fit for everyone? Of course not! No curriculum is. I have loved TG&TB for some of my kids, I have loved IEW, I love Sonlight, etc. That’s the beauty of having an eclectic style and using what works for each child!
As for “convictions”? There are plenty of Christian curricula and companies that have different ways of presenting Christian beliefs and morals. I don’t see everyone up in arms about those ones!
Agree. I use both TGATB along with my fathers world. An in those my fathers world groups they get down right nasty about TGATB. Like they block people from their groups for using it.
We have used it over 3 years. An have done research when we found out about the creators belief. She works with a huge team of people that all come from different sections of Christianity to make it not just 1 group’s opinion, but very general. An moral. What I don’t understand is those that are still using and encouraging parents to use ABC mouse. They are for and found the church of Scientology. Made by the founder. TGATB doesn’t go to found the church of Mormon. They actually found it to give back to the homeschooling community to bring free curriculum to families. 🤷🏽♀️ if we found once they it tried to bring the Mormon ideology, we would drop it. But they are very careful not to. Since her team spends many who aren’t Mormon.
Exactly. I’m appalled by the way people speak about TGTB as a company as well as how they judge Jenny Phillips. I think she is classy and handles things with grace.
I don't understand why they get so much hate. They're literally giving you their hard work for FREE! I just don't understand. Especially in these hard times! It's great!
This has been on my heart for a bit now. I strive to give my kids a homeschool education & life centered on Christ. In good judgment & discernment I cannot justify using a curriculum founded by a Mormon. They do not believe in the same Jesus of the Bible. Regardless if it's free or fantastic or whatever, Satan twists & deceives. Be careful Christian friends🙏🏼❤️
@@juliacarter1280 Exactly. The people that make the video's with false claims don't even take the time to fact check any of the claims by downloading and going through the free curriculum before making the video. This is all for views.
I hope people understand that using any curriculum, including The Good and the Beautiful isn't supposed to be "clicky" or as if you're giving your 'alegence' to some private club. Curriculum is meant to be a tool. RUclips had been a great blessing to be able to research and see so many items and curriculum before purchasing. However, I think it has also opened up other doors, which does not bring love and peace.
Curriculum is supposed to encourage, inspire, teach our children by helping and equipping parents on this homeschooling journey.
I use the Good and the Beautifu in our home, here in Israel. I also useabout five or six other wonderful curriculums. We use different curriculums to fill the needs of our eight children. They are each so different and with different learning styles.
I used to be strictly Charlotte Mason in our homeschool and there is definitely "clicky" CM groups out there as well.
However, we are not CM purists anylonger. So for us,TGATB has a blessing.
We still uphold to CM values like; “Education is an atmosphere, a discipline, and a life". Also,
living books, copywork, dictation, narration, short lessons (we use timers!), Appreciation for nature, art, music, good habits and loving and honoring parents, and most importantly their relationship with Yeshua. I find, these values are all what I have seen with regards to The Good and the Beautiful.
I have never seen any LDS teachings in this curriculum. From my understanding, there are more Evangelical Christians editing this curriculum and they all feel 100% satisfied with what they do.
We also have done Usborne books in our homeschool. Do you also read Usborne? We have to go through the books first and make sure that there are no naked people, that there is no evolution or any teachings we do not agree with in our home. We have never found this to be something we have to do with The Good and the Beautiful, quite the contrary.
Exactly! I’m definitely a TGTB user and lover and had been before I knew of controversy, but it 1,000% up to each individual family what suits their needs. No one else should be dictating what another family does or doesn’t use.
I just want to say thank you. I've been using TGTB and started struggling with if we should continue us it. Ive prayed and last week I decided to drop it. (I did find it a great curriculum and my kids did well with it) I was still doubting if I made the right decision, God is so good tho and I needed to hear this.
Thank you so much ❤️
Thank you for sharing, just curious, what did you guy end up going with?
@@LivingWithEve for my 2 1st graders- All About Reading, Explode the code and Mastersbook for Math (we started the year off with MB, so we picked up were we had left off)
5th grader- IEW Fix it Gammar & Structure & Style,so far we're loving it. We did the free trail and now just waiting for the full program to arrive (scheduled to arrive Friday Yay) and we went back to Soaring with Spelling. She's been doing Teaching Textbooks since September.
Kindergarten were doing Rod & Staff and CLE
This is my 1st year homeschooling and it has been an interesting ride lol
My youngest has down syndrome as well (that what attracted me to your channel) she'll be starting school this coming September (part-time)
Leilani! Always, always appreciate your your words! FOMO is really but there are ENDLESS options out there! You are so right!!! Great video, mama!!!
We definitely have religious convictions regarding TGTB which is our MAIN reason for not using it.
We even tried it once and the conviction was digging at me the whole time. We used it for 30 lessons and I couldn't do it anymore.
I appreciate this video so much because I feel like anytime you Google or search curricula on RUclips, it's the first thing that pops up. It's so hard to find thorough reviews for other curricula and when it's constantly there in every search you do, it's hard to not get FOMO. It's so hard not to feel like you're missing out. Especially when it is so aesthetically pleasing and beautiful looking.
Thank you so much for sharing this video.
I agree. We tried it a few years ago and I ended up selling it less than half way through the year. I just couldn’t do it. I didn’t see anything in the curriculum that I found offensive but the thought was nagging me. I keep looking at their website but in the end it wasn’t a good fit for us.
Yes! That's exactly how so many have felt and how I felt.
By any chance would you explain the conviction. I know that’s an odd question but my friend and I both homeschool and we’ve been looking into purchasing TGTB. Our conversation last night was actually the “beliefs” of the curriculum. We neither one was sure of it but we stand tall in our faith and don’t won’t anything that would possibly cause confusion the kids!
@@a1_0_27 There is nothing whatsoever about mormonism in their curriculum. Not even a hint of it.
@@LivingWithEve Hi. I usually keep to myself, but I am very confused about the "drama" concerning the religious beliefs of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints that a lot of you on here are referring to. Maybe I could help clarify? I am a member of this Church, and I am extremely confused by all the comments. We can be friends!
Wanted to come and recommend Apologia as a faith based math curriculum too. I know they are widely known for their science, but we have been giving their math a try this year and my son loves it. He has been doing level 2. It's very hands on and very gentle lessons. There are lots of games and activities built in. He has ADHD so hands on, games, and activities help him stay engaged with the lesson.
Good to know about the math - thanks!
I could NOT care LESS about the religious background of Jenny Smith. Not at all. I have found NOTHING that strikes me as Mormon philosophy or anything other than very generic Christian teachings in TGATB products. I have no time or energy to research the backgrounds of every single writer of every single curriculum we use, therefore I’m not going to hone in on this one product because this one creator is open about their beliefs.
That said, we are also not using TGATB any longer. While it’s probably one of the strongest free products on the market I found the reading comprehension and writing instruction to be very weak. Personal opinion, but I just think there are better products out there if you can afford them. I’m glad TGATB exists; it makes homeschooling a very easy and accessible thing to many families. I simply encourage people to USE the free downloads and judge the CONTENT of the program vs the religious background of the creator. Simplest and most sure fire way to get an answer on whether it’s right for you specifically.
What is the negative of tgtb?
Totally agree! It's wrong for anyone to say that a certain curriculum or style is the ONLY way to teach their kids. There's no perfect curriculum so everyone needs to choose what works for them. We love TGTB but we also do Classical Conversations and while those two things work for us, I would never tell another mama how to school her kids.
I'm sorry people are so mean about homeschool curriculum. 🤦 You shouldn't have to feel nervous. ❤️
I use TGATB and classical conversations and both curriculum works hand-to-hand. That is what works for us. Yet it may not work for someone else. Also on the math part it covers the same concepts as other curriculums like Saxon. L.A. covers the same as the Essentials program in cc.
Why didn't you like it though?? I left feeling like I didn't know why when this video was over ! LOL maybe I missed it!?? Haha
I told you why we don’t use it. Which was a mix of all the drama behind it. Also because I was already established with other curriculum and I simply don’t need it. It’s not that I don’t like it, it’s that I don’t use it. I also included curriculum that someone can use instead of TGATB if they want to avoid it. There is a lot of unneeded pressure behind using it.
@@LivingWithEve what's the drama?
@@Genny1992the founder is Mormon, not Christian
Thank you for this! I both love and loathe the fact that there are so many amazing curricular options for homeschoolers!! It’s a very nice problem to have. 😍
This was so well done & the homeschool community needs to hear this! If it works for you, great, if it doesn’t, there are a multitude of other curriculum out there that will get the job done.
Personally, I have never been attracted to TGTB, all controversy put aside. It just has never looked like something that would work for my kids with special needs (too busy, longer lessons, too much fluff).
That being said, I am currently using TGTB preschool with my special needs 7.5 yr old as we attempt to learn letters and sounds. He’s making (some) progress!
When I pick curriculum I have two things in mind: what is going to meet the need of my child? What is something that will work well for me in this season of homeschool? And I pick that & run with it.
Good job for you for putting this out there!!!
We love the good and the Beautiful. My son loves to learning and is so easy. I like the spiral system because I myself tent to forget things. As a Christian though I will choose a different one for science and History. But we truely love the Good and the beautiful La and Math.
TGTB is definitely not the end all be all, and the drama surrounding it is unnecessary. I agree, if it doesn't work for you, move on. Nothing wrong with that! There is so much out there that works just as well. ❤️
Loved this video! We started with TGTB for almost everything and now we use completely different curriculum because it was what my son really needed. We all have to figure out what will work best based on our children’s needs, not what’s popular!
I used TG&TB as an add on to Timberdoodle and it worked out. Left Abeka and am unsure if we will use Abeka again for the 4th grade. Love your videos and all the help you send out to all us MaMa’s❤️
I love love love your approach with the video! You handled the topic with such grace and love and I hope all see that and don’t give you a rough time for speaking in such a hot button topic.
We choose to not use it for convictions as well. I’m well acquainted with the LDS community, as I have close neighbors who are, and have studied so much about their beliefs so I can be a light to them and have fun and fruitful conversations. 😊 For this reason, we’ve decided to not support or promote TGTB.
Thank you so much!
“We have the freedom to decide how to educate our kids.” YES!! Thank you for your video☺️
Thanks so much for this video. I love that Math U See teaches to "mastery" but we have never had the testing issues I've heard people mention! We have been using Math U See since the beginning and as we finish 6th and 3rd grade, both of my kids just tested significantly above the "average" in our state testing...
That’s actually awesome! That means the kids are really laying a strong foundation with Math U See and are able to apply it to more difficult math. Awesome!
Thanks for sharing! I have used TGATB over the years, but honestly it didn’t teach everything logically enough for me (specifically their LA and math). I like the beauty, but don’t need all the fluff… so we are big fans of Logic of English and Math U See… much more to the point, logical, and the progression just made sense. I’m also really loving Math with Confidence by Kate Snow for my kindergartner! I’m super impressed with that math curriculum and plan to continue it with my youngest. I do like the shorter unit style of TGATB science, but prefer something like Apologia as my kids get older.
I am so confused.. I have replayed they video back multiple times.. when did you mention what you didn’t like about it ? 😫
I agree that it is very solid and I understand why families love it. It just didn’t work for my son.
This was perfect timing, as I'm really struggling on if we should continue TGTB. I could be giving my money to companies that do follow my beliefs. I've got 2 currently using the LA, 2 using the Math, and 3 that will use the LA next year (I already bought the high school level 😬), but I'm not sure what to do. I struggle a lot with making this decision.
I agree, TGTB is not Charlotte Mason 😬
Lol! I love you Ashley! Yeah... definitely not CM. I can see how it's CM "inspired," which is what they say, but not pure CM.
I actually think it fits well with a few different styles. It sits well with Classical and somewhat with Traditional too. We use a little bit of everything in this crazy house! I just like ALL things! Lol! ❤️
Yes, Dina!! After using TGTB for several years, I think it’s mostly on the traditional side. I do see how it fits classical too, for sure! I agree, though, it can fit many different styles 😊
The Good and the Beautiful has a lot of controversy because a certain blogger/you tuber slammed them after she decided to create her own curriculum. Before that, said blogger praised them for years. Said blogger claims to be Christian but doesn't act in a Christ like manner when slamming another company. I don't know why Christians don't mind using secular curriculum such as Logic of English or All About Reading, but they sway away from TGTB because of controversy. We have no idea what these secular curriculum companies believe. They don't put their worldview out there but we are trusting their curriculum and slamming, or simply not using someone else's, and making video's telling the world why, simply because they come from a different religious background. How is it different using curriculum that may have been created by someone who is atheist? Because we don't know that they are atheist?
I also want to say that I appreciate your video.
Yes, we all heard what happened with Rebecca. But the controversy was there without her. TGATB is owned and founded by a Mormon. For many Christians this is a big deal and many have called her out as bringing subtle Mormon influence into the curriculum. I live by a specific rule, if I do not connect with the curriculum author, I don’t use. I think everyone should do the same. The author is really a major influence in your child’s life. With the exception of math and phonics, I do not use secular curriculum.
@@LivingWithEve Please show me where the subtle Mormon influence is. I am a Christian. I have their math, language arts, science, and handwriting and I don't see anything that isn't verbatim, King James from my own bible. There is no "subtle Mormon influence" in the curriculum at all. That is what issue I have. People make their video's having never used the curriculum. It isn't fair to make a video influencing other to not use something if you haven't used it yourself. I know that is not what your intention is, but you said you wouldn't use it based on the controversy and drama that surrounds it. That's fine, but why make the video at all?
I appreciate your take on this so much! I run in the middle with TGTB. We started out our homeschooling with one thing we hated, and TGTB was a good place for us to land at the time with LA and Math. We're finishing up our second year homeschooling, and our 1.5 year of TGTB. I always was very cautious with the religious side of it, and though many say there's no LDS influence, it is there a bit, especially in the History (which I quit mid year because I really disliked the LDS influence in it). My oldest is wrapping up the second LA, and while it's been good, we're switching to all new LA curriculum for next year for her (my youngest will continue through TGTB LA through the second level since she likes it, and we have it). It is a good curriculum, but I found once it started adding geography that it was almost TOO many subjects incorporated, and I realized that I could cover it (in my opinion) a much better way for my family. I'm grateful TGTB was there when we got started because it gave me the confidence that I could homeschool, but now that I'm more confident, I'm having so much fun finding the curricula that really fits our family best (and for us it's going toward a blend of CM and some classical). We're going to use IEW's Fix It Grammar next year, and I'm so excited for a new approach there!
Needed to hear this! Thank you! The lists are very long to choose from for each subject! Just started this journey and boy am I in it now lol!
I just stumbled across this video and had my husband send it to my account simply so I could comment…thank you for the review you gave! I am LDS and I get so overwhelmed sometimes by the love and hate it gets. Use it or not, your choice as the mom- ya don’t have to be mean about the founder of the curriculum. 😅
Anyway, I thought your perspective was honest, kind, and thoughtful. Thank you!!
also, i ordered the benny bagels book and cant wait to read it with my kiddos! ❤ happy wednesday
Thank you for your video!
Hope you all are safe with this hurricane 🙏.
I bought TGATB last year for my first grade son and I couldn't teach him language art with those books. Maybe because English is my second language and I never had experience how to learn English as child. But I really like their math. My son loves it too.
This year we started kindergarten with my daughter. I really like curriculum from Generations. This year is the first year they published Phonics book. I love it! It's very easy for me to teach her how to read.
Also they have God's big story reading and activity books for all elementary school grades. They are stories from the Bible.
Bottom line do what God tells you to do. It was a no from God for me.
Totally agreed…I felt convicted and decided to opt out.
This is a fantastic video, as always, thank you! The Good and the Beautiful has just recently released "Heath and the Human Mind " with a lot of mental health material covered and three extra books for grade 7 and grade 8. I'd appreciate a video, looking at the homeschool options for teenage mental health , ranging from gentle to more intensely academic. The other topic they had a unit study for was human relationships/reproduction. Looking at the sample pages, they do "go there" with the internet and older students with more mature content. Both unit studies looked very gentle for grade 7/8 students and families wanting to deal with difficult topics. My only comparison so far is Apologia's Human Anatomy, which we are currently doing - is not the same sort of content as Mental Health, being more science based and less social thinking based. Apologia looks to have that in their Grade 9 Health study, but a lot more academic and rigorous... not quite ready for that with an unworldly students in our homes... which is a very long winded way of saying that there is a place in my heart for beautiful, gentle curriculums dealing with mental health and human reproduction for sensitive children and teens🙂
I felt like you titles this wrong in my opinion. You went in and pretty much said how amazing TGTB is and then don’t use it because there is drama made by worldly people about it. Not convincing at all
Thats not what I said, watch it again. You misunderstood things. I am not trying to convince you to not use it. That’s not my job in this video. My purpose is to provide you with options if you don’t want to use it. That came at the end. I did tell you why we don’t use it. It was because of all the drama and because we had so much other curriculum that we already enjoyed. (It is based after a video I did about a year ago where I was attempting to use the good and the beautiful, I unboxed it, only to find that I did not want to use it.) There is also a lot of pressure to use TGATB from the community and I’m saying you don’t have to. If you have convictions for whatever reason, don’t put yourself under that pressure, there is so much more out there.
Also if someone chooses to use it, I fully support that. But don’t use it because you think it’s the only option.
I am using tGtB for little booster for kids to love the schooling. I think it's good for young kids, but you are so right on it's your choice on what to use. My girls love LA from them but I also use Abeka to reinforce reading and phonics (teaching 4yr and 6yr the k and 1st-who is more of 4th grade reading). It is so hard to choose right curriculum for your student/kids and it gets pricey
Climbing Good English is excellent affordable workbook format for English and Writing.
Do you have any videos about your being an evaluator? It would be so interesting to know what you look for and tips you may have!
I second this!
I do a video on how to put a portfolio together and then two on Florida Homeschooling Portfolio laws. ruclips.net/p/PLsE4k4jPNRx6iVnixqDeBCeGx7wkr8246
I always feel like I’m missing out with not using TGTB. Everytime I look at it though, I’m just like doesn’t look much different than what I’m doing, either than it’s beautiful! Any thoughts on learning language arts through literature for my fourth grader. I’m leaning towards this, because I love the philosophy and love the independence factor. I would do Sonlight, looks very teacher intensive tho and I have four soon to be five children. Any advice?
I will say learning language arts through literature is a little bit behind academically, and would probably be easy for your fourth grader if she is on target or head. Don’t feel bad about not using the gun in the beautiful. There is so many different curriculum out there that this is just one of them. You’re not missing out. I don’t know if you’re looking for Christian based curriculum, but Generations is also really good one. You might want to also look at master books, however, that one is also a little bit behind academically.
I think you did a good job explaining your opinion and some of the other options out there.
Thank you for being REAL!
We love TGTB science. Not Interested The history because not chronological. But we are going to try the LA and Math this year.
Totally understand the FOMO and also sticking with your convictions vs falling for the FOMO haha I appreciate your video!
My favorites are Christian Light Education, Horizon and IEW.
*I find it extremely hard to understand why out of all the homeschooling curriculums, this is the one and only one you personally get attacked about if you don’t like it!* Time and time again, I have watched so many that have made a video not liking it and the comments are atrocious, I *haaaaaaated* the curriculum, and so did our kids, not only because she is Mormon, but because the curriculum itself sucked. It was all over the place, some have said that they’ve revised it so it’s better now? Regardless, you will find people that use other curriculums be encouraged that it’s okay to abandon it and find something else, *HOWEVER* when it comes to TGTB, you are not allowed to not like it?! It’s seriously gross, and I do find it hard to swallow that Christians use the curriculum, and I have heard it said to me that there are Christian curriculums that I wouldn’t 100% agree with on everything, but there’s a big difference between the 2 religions, huge in fact as far as Christ is concerned.
I noticed that too! Definitely can discern a spiritual battle when it comes to this curriculum. Over my 12 years of homeschooling, and many different choices to choose from, I have never seen this battle over any other company or personal curriculum choices! Thanks for sharing and being honest!! ❤
@@krosario3322 it’s seriously disgusting! People keep saying Jenny is classy and handles herself great, there is no evidence to support that at all.
@@shegathers6120 "But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it." Matthew 7:14. Compromising is not a good idea when there are so many other great curriculum choices to choose from. Not that I have made every choice perfectly through the years, I am glad some of us are speaking out.
@k Rosario you should make it to my live on September 11th
It's because Mormons get testy about Christ. They want people to believe they are Christians. Why do you think there's been a huge push to be called "Latter-day Saints of Jesus Christ" and not Mormons anymore? 🤔 But if anyone with enough critical thought digs into what Mormons truly believe, they will see that the Christ they follow is not the Jesus Christ of the Christian bible. I don't care either way. Believe in what you believe in but don't hide under a false label. And certainly don't be upset when you get called out for it! 😅
Ironically as new homeschooler, I find the drama interesting esp after I learned TGTB have a diversity panel and are redoing their history to add “hard but true facts” to highlight the bad things about historical figures with the help of that DEI board. Then their last curriculum video had a blue hair half shaved lady. So maybe the controversy was a little bit of a warning for those trying to escape a certain ideology.
What do you mean by “blue hair shaved lady” and what ideology? Are you implying a diversity panel is a bad thing? Confused by your comment.
Considering how many of us are trying to get away from what public schools are doing (cough D E I and shaved blue hair and everything that tends to come with it), and hearing about all THAT lately with TGTB...I'm glad we passed on it.
Edit: And as far as diversity goes, I can teach that myself. Unlike most, it won't be simply Black History and Native American Studies while ignoring everything else. I'm talking ACTUAL diversity and REAL history.
I started my oldest with MUS and used Primer, Alpha, Beta, and most of Gamma. I switched her into Singapore Math and I agree that the switch is not smooth, I did see a drop in her test scores just during that time and she had to adjust but is now thriving and DID get an amazing number sense and understanding of place value and other foundational concepts.
What is MUS?
@@JaniceCrowell Math U See!
I haven't even watched this yet (I'm about to) but I have to say I just ditched it after two kids, two full years. I was SO BORED from it. Also, my son never progressed in his writing, at all. It was way too vague. I had to supplement Spelling as well. So I did a ton of research and am switching him to Essentials in Writing, and Literature Treasures from Catholic Heritage (it is wonderful, exactly what I was looking for and cheap!)
TGTB language arts curriculum is robust, the science is NOT. I LOOOOVE TGTB for Language Arts, so far history and science have been busts for me and I am very unimpressed. Science book covers grade 3-8...the difference between 3rd graders and 8th grades is so large that teaching the same concepts between that group makes no sense, and it left my 6 year old unchallenged.
I just recently bought the TGATB handwriting for my 7th grader. He needs extra cursive practice. I am going to use Handwriting to see if I like it. There's not much Christian/nonChristian about handwriting so I think I am good with the Bible thing. I also want to use their drawing books. I have a son who likes to draw right now we are using easy peasy but I saw some of the TGATB and I like the drawing books so I am going to "get my feet with it" with those two.
Sound good.
Great video. We tried TG&TB a couple of times but each time changed to something else. We used the LA when it first came out and again when they revised L3. But I find the all-in-one doesn't work for us. The reading was too simple, as was the spelling, the writing was OK and the grammar was intense (we used L1 when she was 5). We needed different programs for the different components of LA to teach where she was at. We have liked the science units and the handwriting but there are other ones we have liked just as much. We tried the new math last year and I have to say the video component was excellent. But after a trial of 30 lessons I gave my daughter several options and she wanted Masterbooks. (This is a kid who does ok with math but doesn't like it). Since we are not in the States, pdfs have benefits and theirs are free. But with the beautiful artwork and glorious colors (which is what always grabs me) it costs an absolute fortune in ink to print.
Coming back to recommended Harbor and Sprout to anyone looking for a visually beautiful curriculum for young children.
Well said and thanks for sharing different curriculum options. Have a great day :)
I saw on another video that you had done BJU. What do you think of their curriculum, especially their math?
I started my kids with Christian Light math but switched to BJU. I liked CLE but was told by a couple homeschooling moms that if you are going to switch in the higher grades, it’s best to switch curriculum in the younger grades. It goes much smoother. So that’s what I did. My two oldest I switched and then my youngest I just started him off with BJU. I use BJU for English too because I can get the videos. I am so terrible at English and my kids learn better from the videos with English.
Actually, I have not done BJU, but I have seen it. It's very traditional. But it works.
I love tha good and tha beautiful. It has helped my dyslexic daughter tremendously.
Hello! I really enjoy following you on RUclips, and appreciate much of your advice regarding homeschool. With that said, I'm not quite sure I understand the purpose of this video. It seems somewhat clickbait because the good and the beautiful is such a controversial curriculum. I do agree with you that there are many different curriculum that are of equal intellectual caliber when compared to the good and the beautiful, but I don't think that makes those necessarily a better choice than the good and the beautiful. I think perhaps your motive behind making this video didn't come across as clearly as it could have. I believe all homeschool families have different needs and that is the benefit of having so many different options nowadays. I guess my opinion is that it was sufficient to say the good and the beautiful didn't work for your family and to probably leave it at that. I did however appreciate that you weren't portraying this curriculum in a negative light, but that being said I don't really see what was to be gleaned from this video in general. As a disclaimer I do want to say I'm not trying to be harsh, I just think given your position as a homeschool advocate to so many people you have to be so mindful about what is put out on the internet.
Because there was a video a year ago, I did an unboxing on TGATB with full intention of using, however it didn’t work for me. As a result there were so many hate comments. Lots of email discussions, insults, the list goes on. It wasn’t a great video so I wanted to do some kind of follow up.
I think you’re reading into a bit. My philosophy is this: Every family is different, the beauty of homeschooling is that you find what is best for you. This is my opinion. And for those families that have convictions (and there are a lot of families struggling) don’t using it, there is other stuff out there that may work for you. Here’s are some ideas.
I never say they are better, I’m saying you have options. Drama, pressure, whatever, should not dictate what you use. You dictate what you use, guide by prayer.
Yes, TGATB is clickbait, by nature, but I am beyond that. I want to speak my thoughts and to real emotions and struggles. TGATB has a lot of drama attached and many parents are feeling the pressure of doing it when their convictions, or thoughts, or maybe they just want to homeschool differently… those things are telling them not to use it.
I want families to use what God is guiding them to use. If it’s TGATB, Great!! But if it’s something else, they’re should be no insecurities. I want families to feel free to choose.
Maybe also because you have not been wrapped up in the drama, that’s awesome! Because there is a lot, and honestly as evaluator, I have seen tears over this because of internal struggles. I had a parent once tell me with tears, “Thank you, because for so long I thought I really had no other choice.” She thought that she had to use TGATB because it was the only curriculum out there that could teach her child what they needed to meet requirements.
I agree, I just think it’s a long video instead of saying “hey, this didn’t work for us” and leave it at that. Love your videos, but I agree, this seemed a bit much. Kind turned me off, overkill.
@@LivingWithEve I found that your video from last year was just as good as the one you put out today. I love watching your videos and found them when I was first starting up, but I too found this clickbaity cause of the time when people are doing the most research. The only people I hear talking about drama with TGTB are people who don't use it. Honestly I have never seen any drama. Just "it didn't work for me cause kids like this one better, or I like this one better. (probably the algorithm) Can you link me to some of it so I can see what people are talking about?
I’m a bit uncomfortable linking the videos here, But you could search The Good and style Beautiful Drama or Homeschool On or even the constitution. But it’s not worth digging into it. However most drama happens in the comment sections… and after speaking with many other we all do the same thing… delete. I deleted a lot of hateful messages, insults, ect.. I did keep a few mild ones, but that is because they were mild. The LDS community is very defensive of this curriculum and unfortunately, some get aggressive. It’s very sad. It’s hurts their community more than helps. I have a pretty thick skin too, and I can tolerate a lot, I am also very moldable and willing to admit if something I did was wrong, but this got out of hand. And some comments from my last video, even though they were untrue, stung.
@@CCgirl2083 Most of the drama revolves around the fact that the creator of the good and the beautiful is a part of the Church of Jesus Christ of latter-day saints, more commonly known as mormons. I know that this is something that the company has addressed many times in voicing that they do not teach any doctrine that their churches hold to. I am not a part of LDS so I researched the company myself because I did not want their beliefs being taught in curriculum I used for my children. That being said, I think the drama is blown way out of proportion because many people recommend curriculum from companies like Christian Light or Rod and Staff when they themselves are not mennonites. There seems to be so much controversy only around the good and the beautiful, and I think that that drama is totally unnecessary. I think as homeschooling parents we should prayerfully choose all of our curriculum, never be pressured into using anything that goes against our conscience. The good and the beautiful has been a great choice for our family for math curriculum. I probably wouldn't use a Bible curriculum put out by that company because my biblical beliefs differ from theirs. But in regards to academics, I think that they are right up there with other excellent homeschool curriculum choices. I think the best choice is to be an advocate for parents thoroughly researching curriculum before they choose it so that they can feel confident in their choices.
What were the negatives about the curriculum?
It’s just my thoughts on it.
So we have loved tgtb for my daughter. Math is not her strong suit and she does best w tgtb math. That being said, I'm looking for an alternative math that teaches similarly. I've heard Math with Confidence could be a good choice. Anyone here have experience w that? Thanks! Ps, I've had My Fathers World K sitting on a shelf since I tried the first week w my daughter and it was so overwhelming I moved onto tgtb. Which was easy enough for a 1st time mama! But my heart is on the more until study hands on style. Will try again w MFW K for my up and coming K guy this year.🙌🙏
Nice info and insight. Keep up the good work with homeschooling👍
I researched and researched.....I couldn't find any negative....I placed an order.
Now all I can find is negative 😆
❤ I have dyslexia so when I’m teaching my kids TGTB is great cuz my brain 🧠 doesn’t go 🫥 when trying to teach it and other curriculum is very bland on the teacher part and it makes me wanna scream 😂 and my kids have adhd and dyslexia and asd and they are doing well with that it works for us I’m not religious so I just change words and what not to make it secular
I wish this video really went there and explained the controversy for those of us out of the loop!
Exactly!
What's the controversy?!
@@Genny1992 I found out! It’s racism. They previously had no bipoc in their curriculum at all and even had to pull one of their history units from the market due to MAGA type “glory days” talk about the constitution era. 🥴 pretty bad! But they’ve said they’re trying to improve
@@cccccc202. that is one thing, but it’s not the controversy that has most Christian homeschoolers up in arms. It’s the fact that the cheater of TGATB is LDS and a prominent leader of the Mormon church. Although the curriculum has zero LDS teachings and is reviewed by Christian editors of multiple denominations to be sure it’s truly nondenominational, people do not trust it and I guess feel like something could be “snuck in.” As far as the racism goes, that was unfortunately a much smaller controversy, but it has been well addressed by the company. They now have a diversity panel that help edit the history courses for accuracy, and apparently based on comments I’ve seen here and on other videos, that’s a “bad thing” too.
Personally I like TGATB so far (my learners are very young though. We haven’t even made it to the history and science grades yet. So far just math and lit.) and the fact that Jenny Lewis seems to be doing a lot make her curriculum accessible (and affordable) and accurate, is a plus for me.
I didn’t hear you recommend abeka. Is it a reason it didn’t fall in your favorites? I am trying to switch to tgtb thinking of all the plus of material integrated in LA but what about abeka?
I am actually not a fan of ABEKA, for me. It is a very good curriculum, and will cover everything. Even more than everything. It’s too much for me. I just want flexibility in my curriculum. I also am not a fan of their pictures.
@@LivingWithEve I know, it has too much added to the curriculum to buy as a group. I wish they eliminate the big parent led book and just include the instructions in the child’s book.
I have a question I am going to be starting to homeschool my sixth grader. He struggles in reading and I wanted to help him with reading and gain confidence in reading as well. Thanks so much.
Look at Learning Language Arts through Literature. Or All about Reading.
Thank you so much for all of this information!
Easy Peasy fan here 👋🏻
If we are doing homeschool through a public school, can we still add books from other companies to help them in let’s say math? I feel that this company is starting my granddaughter out too high & not starting from the beginning of math & slowing down so that she can comprehend what they are trying to teach. She’s only in Kindergarten but I feel they’re starting off at the last 4wks . She’s so lost & I’m having to go back & start actually from scratch. Even in her language. It’s like she’s already in 1st & 2nd grade. I just need some help bc I don’t want her to stay lost and do bad on her tests when I can do something else to help her. I live in Alabama & don’t know anyone who homeschool their kids.
So that is hard. I wonder if Alabama has a homeschool convention you could attend to connect with others in your area. You can for sure add whatever you want to the curriculum, but really be aware of how much you give her because it may be too much. Honestly you may also want to consider full homeschooling so you can really take charge of her education. Just a thought?
She’s full homeschooling now. Her old school wants to know way too much when u take ur child out. I do understand about putting too much work in front of them. She only gets a couple of subjects but we also play games with her phonic flash cards & some other cards, color by #s, etc. She’s not realizing she’s learning several things at one time.
@@chrismichellehall9616I just checked the H S L D A site and don't understand how they could be asking "way too much" in AL. Good luck. Hope it's going better now.
We are full homeschooling since I took her out of her online school. She no longer cries when it's time to start bc we start whenever we want. She now loves to learn. We are using Hooked On Phonics. We love that it not only has apps for them to learn in stages, but they send books in stages. She loves this company. in a couple of yrs at the most, I'll be buying books through other companies like this one. I'm also printing off extra copies for 3 grandbabies next in line starting school.
I love Heart of Dakota this is all in one!
The only curriculum I’ve been tempted to use from TGTB is their typing program because I like that it’s book based not an online program. Do you know of any other typing curriculums that aren’t an online program? I really don’t want to use TGTB.
I don’t know if any. But honestly, I would think it’s pretty easy to write one?
Rod and Staff has Typing for Christian Service
Gather round has a typing from the artists unit!
The majority of Christians that use TGATB have not really dug deep into what Mormons believe and how they believe in a false God. And that’s what the curriculum is based on at its core. I Don’t know how any Christian that knows this could use it and not feel the Holy Spirit convicting you every time you opened it up. Just because it’s “vague” does not make it right.
Amen!!
I am a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, (Mormon) and I'm not sure what you mean by false God, but we believe that Jesus Christ is our Savior and that God is our Heavenly Father who loves each of us. Pretty similar to most Christians. Just so you know. :)
@@kellie-joisraelsen6878 Not to debate about who is right, but just to answer your question since no one answered it....
To Christians, God is un-created. He is eternal, all-knowing, all-powerful, and Ominipresent. He is also a Trinity (3 in one: Holy Spirit, Jesus and Father God all at the same time). He also does not have a created body. To Christians, Man is saved by faith alone and not by his works. Also, Christians believe in a
literal eternal hell for those who did not put their faith in Jesus' atoning sacrifice on their behalf. Christians also do not believe in multiple levels of heaven. Of course there is much more, but just wanted to make sure you got an answer to your question, while keeping it as factual and objective as possible. I say this with love ❤.
No conviction here. But I only use the math so idk about the other subjects
LA has been the biggest struggle at my house. We’re finishing TGTB LA 4. I’m trying to decide rather to go on to level 5 or try something else. We’ve tried a lot already though. Structure and style with fix it (he hated SS, but like fix it). We’ve tried sonlight, and CLE….any LA recommendations for the boy who just finds LA a drag?
We just finished level 4 and we are switching from tgatb. I looked at level 5 and it is not up my son's alley. I settled on fix it grammar, and essentials in writing. He will also read books on the side that we both agree on. He is very hopeful for next year now!
What about Learning Language Arts Through Literature. You'll have to flip through it to see his level. Also do a mix literature for comprehension or something like Moving Beyond the Pages (that's more of unit study and comprehension) then you can using Evan Moore or Soaring Through Spelling / Growing With Grammar to do a quick teach pn the technical stuff.
It arrived and it is beautiful, simple, and my son is interested in these books!
@@LivingWithEve we’re going to try the Robison curriculum. I’m pretty excited because it’s unlike doing traditional public school work and I think that’s what they need.
That’s awesome!!!
I’m curious as to what one means by “controversy” seeing how most of the proceeds are going to charity to fund underprivileged individuals to receive education. Nothing in the curriculum fosters hatred or immoral theology (but the opposite), exhibits religious overtones shared by many Christian denominations, and is a collaborative effort by a team of over 70 individuals of diverse theological upbringing… yet people want to abandon it due to discrimination of the owner?… What happened to, “by their fruits?” If you actually get to know the people involved in how this curriculum came together,manifested by a little research, you may find that these people are pretty amazing and doing so much benefit for everyone (regardless of their religious upbringing).
If one doesn’t use it because it doesn’t work for them scholastically - I get it. If others don’t want to use it just because the owner is LDS (an individual who seems to only manifest love, inspiration and charity)- that’s bigotry, intolerance, and divisiveness.
Many people do not want to use the curriculum because their faith is different than that of LDS. It’s a personal conviction and we have a right to make that decision. It is not a personal attack on the founder or anyone who writes it. That is not bigotry.
@@LivingWithEveI do not disagree with using one’s agency and choice. That has nothing to do with my statement above. What I stated and you did not answer was this: Can you clarify why you believe this curriculum to be so “controversial”? As you have stated numerous times? If one were to assess the curriculum content - There is nothing in the curriculum geared towards LDS doctrine (aside from the founder’s faith in Jesus Christ and God- which is universal for all Christians). Therefore, why one feels uncomfortable with using this curriculum (aside from scholastic structure and flow) has everything to do with the founder’s personal belief and not wanting to support a whole company personally because of it.
The only controversy here are individuals who are creating drama over nothing represented in said curriculum.
So be honest with your statements- You do not support members of the LDS faith and would rather put money somewhere else. No different than you not wanting to go to a bakery because of the baker’s personal belief. Could the cake be perfectly fine? Of course, but one’s choice to not support someone based on a difference of belief that doesn’t affect you personally has a certain definition. And perhaps, when one tries to slander their reputation, with no moral standing or evidence, is another thing entirely. One can only judge for oneself if that is leaning towards dishonest, divisive, or bigoted.
You would have a point if it was strictly because of the founder’s beliefs, however that is not the issue, there are things that are in the curriculum
that are part of the LDS faith that are not Christian. At least from the perspective from the people who do not want to use the curriculum. That is basis of the controversy. LDS and Christianity are different.
@@LivingWithEve that is exactly my point (the intolerance with no cause part). I’m not going to pretend to judge the hearts and minds of people, nor you because I have a lot of LDS friends and they are mischaracterized/misunderstood all the time. I would say that Latter Day Saints actually have the name of “Christ” in their name (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints) and their slogan is a picture of Jesus Christ. To believe in Christ means to be “Christian.” What people might not know is that it is just a different sect of Christianity; they just believe that a lot of the Christian doctrine fell apart through time (during the apostasy) and became tainted down the line when there was no actual prophet (with authority from God) on the earth to correct people for a time. But that is another story for debate and I’m sure if we all took the time to understand one another more, we may find that the whole of Christianity (with all its sects) has more in common than not. No one needs to agree 100% with all theology (again choice should be yours) but we can all at least banish incorrect assumptions and replace it with facts. The company actively took out all the differences in doctrine part and kept the collective unity or foundational principles of Christianity on purpose. Essentially, meeting everyone in the middle. Hence, all different religions coming together to form the curriculum (which I think is opposite of controversial). Hopefully we can better understand each other with our thoughts on this. Just know I do honestly ask questions to understand more. So I hope this message leaves you with peace of mind.
@@No.Coincidences I see how you're trying to stir ish up by using "bigot" incorrectly. LOL C'mon, man. To clarify, "One's choice to not support someone based on a difference of belief" is called FREEDOM OF CHOICE. No where did she say she hates all Mormons and/or the founder of TGaB because she's Mormon. To say so would definitely make her a bigot. But, she didn't say that did she? It's her time, her children and her money so she's absolutely free to distance herself from any curriculum or product with a foundation that doesn't align with her beliefs. Most, if not all, Bible-believing Christian denominations reject the idea that Mormons are Christians (note I didn't say hate or reject Mormons, just the idea that they fall under the true definition of Christian). There are HUGE fundamental differences between Mormons and Christians. Christians don't believe in Kolob, spirit children, that Jesus and Satan are brothers, that there are multiple heavens, multiple gods, etcetera. Y'all have a whole other book, cover to cover, full of differences! Be free to worship as you see fit but don't go around calling someone a bigot and intolerant because they want to distance themselves from your beliefs. Plain and simple, ma'am.
Very helpful. Thank you
We just print out the pages we like and are OK with from TGATB and then Abeka. I don’t need charlotte mason. I need interesting books and skill development
That’s a great idea.
Love this! Thank you for doing this video.
We use Fix It Grammar for my kids who have dyslexia or dysgraphia. Is there something you can suggest we add to it to make it stronger?
I would look into Orton-Gillingham for dyslexia and even read some book and videos that will teach you how to teach them. For example: I would have them learn cursive ... that's if they have only dyslexia. And for dysgraphia I would introduce typing. Do you know what specific learning disabilities it is? Is it both?
@@LivingWithEvethey both have dysgraphia, one has dyslexia and dysgraphoa. We are using OG for him, but I was wondering if you could recommend something to add to FIX IT to make it stronger (you mentioned it wasn't very strong)? I agree with you, but my kids have learned a lot from this curriculum and just want to know what I can add to make it more complete?
You must of watched an older IEW video. I really like the Fix It Grammar now, they updated it and it seems to be enough. However I have seen some people pair IEW with Well Trained Mind but when they do that they do not do Fix it too. I would agree, that would be a lot. Sometime it’s better to slow down with the curriculum you do have. I’m starting to realize, quality over quantity. Just a thought.
@@LivingWithEve thank you!
I just spent 80 or so dollars on their History curriculum. And I regret it wholeheartedly. While we've enjoyed the the LA books, the History is questionable due to their use of Bible stories as historical facts. I nearly choked when they said the Egyptians were descendants of Noah and that the Egyptians lost their knowledge of the one true God. I couldn't get past the first lesson and now idk what to do with this book.
Bible stories are historical facts and everyone after the flood would be a descendant of Noah's family.
Then you will absolutely love Gather Round Homeschool... they state as FACT that the Earth is 6000 years old
Well, to be fair, Noah and his family were the only humans left after the Flood soooooo 🤷♀️ technically we're ALL descendants of Noah's then, aren't we? Unless I'm missing a chapter...not LDS, just confused on where the Egyptians would come from if not from Noah.
Edit: Unless you're secular, in which case I get why you'd flinch at that lol but did you not know TGATB was religious when you bought it? Idk how anyone could miss that...LOL
I love MCP math for the younger years. MCP phonics is also well done to help kiddos strengthen skills. Pentime for Handwriting. Tons and tons of books.
Thanks for this!
Very helpful thanks so much. I am a fan of the good and beautiful. However, when it comes to math I think my child needs something more of a mastery style. And distracting.
Wise words
What are your thoughts on Abeka math?
Well, I haven’t used it but I’ve seen it. It is thorough. And it will cover almost everything. Anything ABEKA will do this. However, it doesn’t work for every child. Some will love it and others will find it difficult. ABEKA is a more traditional type curriculum, so it’s going to align with Public school standards. A lot of private schools will use it.
I'm confused. She stopped using it "because there's drama?" Not because she has an issue with it? I never heard of any actual issues presented. I'm genuinely confused, sonce i am considering using some of their curriculum.
Very informative.
Would you recommend CTCMath?
I'm sorry I am not familiar with that one.
What is “Charlotte mason”?
It’s a type of schooling, a method so to speak. Just google it. You’ll find tons of info. But it’s all about learning from books, nature, journaling and teaching the whole child.
@@LivingWithEve thank you!
ok, teacher to teacher...I tried TGTB !st level and found several phonics mistakes. I was unimpressed. I loved everything else, but because of that I couldn't continue. That said, I've been waiting for the new updated versions. Curious to know if you found some issues with the phonics in the early levels. I've used Prek, K Primer, and First. First grade was where I started to see a few problems. ALSO, How does Gather Round compare, as I'm thinking of using the beginning levels with my youngest two for K.
Well, I did an update, but I didn't use the program. I did a flip through of it online, but I didn't dig deep into the phonics and only looked at the 4th grade one, so I didn't look at the Pre-K or early years. The update in more about why I'm not using it ever, other curriculums out there and addressing the "It's the best curriculum out there" thoughts. I do address the curriculum academically and I did find the structure (from an overview) to be good.
Gather Round is different. Very different. However, if you didn't like TGATB for those reason, you will not like GR. The few times I've uses GR, it's been for a guide. I had to go deeper with living books and Pinterest taught science activities. There are mistakes in GR, factual mistakes. For example, she says that you will find crocodiles and alligators in Florida. I live in Florida, unless you go to a zoo, you will not find a crocodile. And any Floridian knows, this is basic information... crocodiles are no found in Florida. But there are plenty more mistakes. I even did a whole video on their "Passover Seder" from their Easter Unit study. It's not a Passover Seder but more of a reflection.
But with that aside I have used GR. The pictures are beautiful, and the layout and format is so well done and touches on each topic well, they just don't go deep (and factual mistakes). I used it as an outline / planning tool more than a curriculum.
@@LivingWithEve Thank you for this reply. Very helpful! I'll keep looking.
Also … sorry for the spelling and grammar mistakes about… I did text to talk. I should know better… lol
Any all online curriculum?
I mention Easy Peasy and Ambleside online. It depends on what age, there is Reading Eggs, Nessy, Time 4 Learning, Teaching Textbooks, ABC Mouse, Khan Academy, BJU has a program, Monarch just to name a few. But now a days almost every program has an online program.
Power Homeschool also
Ambleside Online actually is not an online curriculum despite the name. I encourage you to look into it more and see how it's not.
What is the religious concern that people have with The Good and the Beautiful? Not trying to start an argument, just genuinely wondering. I have been looking at different curriculum for when my daughter starts kindergarten next year, and just wondering if there's anything I should be aware of.
TGATB is owned by someone from Church of LDS. It all depends on strongly you feel about that religion. Although some claim that there is nothing LDS influencing TGATB, others claim it’s subtle. It’s really up to you in the end, your religious / spiritual convictions. The biggest concern I have is how pushy some people can be about the curriculum. It’s created a lot of drama which puts a bad taste in my mouth. But that’s me.
@@LivingWithEve gotcha, good to know. Thanks! I don't know why people get so emotional about things like that 🤷♀️
@@LivingWithEve How many years of earnest study have you put in to researching about the beliefs of the LDS Church? I invite you to study and ponder the real teachings from our scriptures and leaders. Then, please take that up personally with God. And allow the rest to peacefully follow their own beliefs.
@@jonnypollero1195I didn't know any better until recently and yikes I'm staying far away from anything Mormon, sorry. Nothing against the people personally, just...nope.
🤗👏🏻
Judaism Jewish 🕎✡️🕍🔯