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Workshop Descriptions
Before Conference Begins:
Support Group Leaders' Meeting - 2:30 p.m., Friday, May 30
Fireside Room, Murray-Herrick Center
Are you a homeschool support group leader who would like to network with other leaders? Or maybe you're a new homeschooler who is thinking of starting a group? Whether you need some new ideas, would like to discuss a situation, or just want to meet other leaders, this gathering is for you. This session will be an informal gathering of leaders from across the Midwest.
Please bring with you a one-page description of your group to exchange with others (25 copies). Coffee, tea, & cookies will be served. (If you plan to attend, please RSVP by emailing: info@mnconference.org.)
4:30 p.m. Friday
Homeschool Bloggers
Fireside Room, Murray-Herrick Center
Blogging ("web logging," which is described as online journaling) has become a part of many homeschool moms' lives. Catholic homeschool blogs have appeared all over the internet in the past couple of years, with bloggers eagerly sharing their experiences and developing online friendships. If you have a blog, like to visit blogs, or especially if you think it'd be nice to have a blog someday, come to this informal chat session. Meet regional Catholic homeschool bloggers in person, share some of your favorite blogs and ask questions about blogging and its benefits! Blogger and homeschool mom of seven Ana Braga-Henebry will lead the session -- and she promises humor and helpful hints too!
Vendor Presentation: ELM: Your Virtual Library by Beth Staats
The Electronic Library for Minnesota (ELM) is an online virtual library available for free to all MN residents. It includes magazine, newspaper, and journal articles; reference sources; research and homework tools, and more! ELM can be accessed from home, school, and work via the ELM portal or public library website. Other free resources like MN Reflections and the Research Project Calculator will be discussed.
Vendor Presentation: Minnesota Vision Therapy Center - Treating the Visual Side of Learning by Jeri Leatherdale
Has your child been diagnosed with dyslexia or ADD? Does your child fit the "bright but struggles to learn" model? Delays in visual development cause struggles with reading, spelling, and handwriting. These are just three of many possible difficulties your child may be having as a result of a functional vision problem. Presentation includes: the effects and symptoms of visual problems and retained reflexes on vision and learning and how vision therapy corrects visual problems.
Vendor Presentation: Hands-On History from the MN Historical Society by Suzi Hunn Gran and other program associates
Looking for ways to bring history to life for students? The Minnesota Historical Society has plenty of ideas for you. Our professional staff will share a variety of hands-on programs and resources: field trips to MHS museums and historic sites statewide, history players, teacher workshops, online activities, and the Northern Lights Minnesota history curriculum. Find out what's new: the History Center's interactive MN 150 exhibit, fantastic new web resources, and more.
Learn how you can experience 2000 years of Vatican art and history in "Vatican Splendors," a traveling exhibition opening September 27 at the Minnesota History Center. From the venerated relics (bone fragments) of St. Peter to items from the election of Pope Benedice XVI, this exhibit comprises one of the largest Vatican collections ever to tour North America, and many items have never before been on public view.
Vendor Presentation: Can Our Children Learn to Sing? by Alan Jemison
A survey of the current deplorable musical condition in the Church, the home, and especially the world; what needs to be done, and what I, in my simple way, am doing to remedy the situation.
Vendor Presentation: Homeschool Planning and Record Keeping by Jennifer Klever
Have you ever wondered if you should be keeping educational records for your children? How about planning and expense records for your homeschool? Come learn tips and techniques that show you how to plan, organize and keep educational and expense records to run your homeschool smoothly, successfully and worry-free!
5:30 p.m. Friday
College Presentation: Ignite Your Spirit! The Mission & Vision of Benedictine College by JP Price
Come take a look at the Catholic, Benedictine, residential, liberal arts college in Atchison, Kansas, dedicated to academic excellence, social involvement and spiritual growth. Please join JP Price to learn about scholarships, academic programs, athletics, student life, and the mission of Benedictine College.
Vendor Presentation: The Works People - Equipping Students with Tools to Master the English Language by Jay W. Patterson
Many students today are not faring well with reading and spelling. They are often not being equipped properly in a world that requires well-refined language skills. The issue expands beyond success, it becomes a matter of pure survival. The Works Trilogy places students on the high road. Come and see.
Vendor Presentation: Excellence in Writing - Take the Groan Out of Writing by Jan Miller
When you assign a simple writing assignment, do you get groans of, "I just can't, Mom! I don't know what to write!" Discover a proven method of teaching writing that is easy to teach and fun to learn. We will show you how to teach the very first lesson so you can make writing at home actually fun!
Vendor Presentation: Total Language Plus - Breathing Life Into Language Arts by Kris Cournoyer
Language Arts is a critical part of any student's education, and yet working through spelling, vocabulary, grammar, writing, reading comprehension, critical thinking, and character development can consume mountains of time and energy. In this workshop, Kris will discuss how these subjects can be combined and brought to life through the study of great literature, developing students who can thing, reason, and communicate with a biblical world view. Grades 3-12.
Vendor Presentation: Creative Behavior Interventions - The Wrist-O-Pic Can Help You Improve Behavior, Organize Schedules and More! by Gail Hanevold
Use the Wrist-O-Pic to improve your child's behavior, to provide a portable schedule, to organize, to teach sight words, and to create a to-do list. This wristband contains five removable, refillable, clear vinyl pockets that can also be used for camp and Bible school schedules/goals.
6:30 p.m. Friday
Fireside Chat: Single-Parent Homeschoolers
Fireside Room, Murray-Herrick Center
Are you homeschooling without the support of a spouse? Come and join others who are in the same situation to discuss challenges and share resources and support.
Vendor Presentation: Edu Resources - Twenty-first Century Skills in the Home School by Michael and Sandee Wright
The Wrights will share why they began teaching classes on robotics, and started Minnesota-based competitions that are accessible to homeschoolers. They will cover how to get young children started, how to develop critical thinking, spatial and problem-solving skills, how your family or homeschool cooperative can participate in their robotics competitions, along with practical tips.
Vendor Presentation: Math-U-See - Math You Finally Understand! by Linda Fugleberg
Come and hear about an affordable, award-winning, multi-sensory math program for preschool through 12th grade. Homeschool math teachers and engineers love it, as do "Math-handicapped" moms and dads! Great or large or smaller-sized families. Little to no teacher prep time needed.
Vendor Presentation: An Introduction to Family Formation by Matthew Brounstein
Family Formation is a unique family catechesis program which promotes parents as the primary educators of their children in the Catholic faith. Through games, quizzes, stories, and music, solid Catholic teaching is transmitted, and the Faith is brought to life within the family.
Vendor Presentation: GeoDeo Educational Resources - Is Playing Games Considered Schooling? Absolutely! by Ann Jansen
No time to read the explanation of "good games"? Hear a quick rundown of 40+ games that stimulate the brain, challenge the mind, and bring back family game night. Ready to play? Participate in a lively game with Crystal Stix, a tossing and flipping activity (Phy Ed!) that attracts the young and not-so-young.
Phonic and Reading with Little Angel Readers by Linda Bromeier
Learn how to teach your child to read using the Little Angel Reader Catholic phonics books. Proven methods and teaching tips from an experienced remedial reading teacher. Topics will include kindergarten readiness, phonics instruction, reading comprehension and more.
7:30 p.m. Friday
Marriage: God Defines the Family by Fr. Mitch Pacwa, S. J.
Father Pacwa discusses the ways in which the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony is rooted in the death and resurrection of Jesus, offering profound insight into the manner that we as Christians are called to live out our marriages in the spirit intended by God. This presentation is perfect for those wishing to breathe new life into their marital relationship.
JPII Players, a homeschool theater group from Long Prairie, MN, will be performing a short original drama before Father's presentation. The group will also perform on at 12:30 on Saturday in the OEC Auditorium.
8:30 a.m. Saturday
College Presentation: Ignite Your Spirit! The Mission & Vision of Benedictine College by JP Price
Come take a look at the Catholic, Benedictine, residential, liberal arts college in Atchison, Kansas, dedicated to academic excellence, social involvement and spiritual growth. Please join JP Price to learn about scholarships, academic programs, athletics, student life, and the mission of Benedictine College.
Vendor Presentation: Heppner's Legacy Homeschool Resources - Finding Your Family's Learning Style by Nancy Bjorkman
This workshop will help define several different learning and teaching styles found in homeschool families. I will then help attendees to identify resources and curriculum to fit their family's particular style.
Vendor Presentation: MN Vision Therapy Center - Treating the Visual Side of Learning by Jeri Leatherdale
Has your child been diagnosed with dyslexia or ADD? Does your child fit the "bright but struggles to learn" model? Delays in visual development cause struggles with reading, spelling and handwriting. These are just three of many possible difficulties your child may be having as a result of a functional vision problem. Presentation includes the effects and symptoms of visual problems and retained reflexes on vision and learning, and how vision therapy corrects visual problems.
Vendor Presentation: North Dakota Center For Distance Education by Brian Becker
This will be an overview of what NDCDE has to offer for home schooled students. A complete curriculum is available for students in grades 6-12.
Vendor Presentation: RightStart Mathematics - RightStart Math: Building a Solid Foundation by Dr. Joan Cotter
Mathematica is about patterns and relationships, much more than memorizing facts and procedures. The AL Abacus enables children to learn through guided discovery. It uses their natural ability to visualize, which helps them master the facts and solve problems. Understanding concepts and relationships are critical for building a strong foundation.
9:30 a.m. Saturday
KEYNOTE: Discernment: Identifying God's Will in Everyday Life by Fr. Mitch Pacwa, S. J.
What is God calling you to do? How do you interpret whether or not He may be sending you a sign? How do you listen to what God is trying to tell you? In this informative and entertaining presentation, Fr. Pacwa offers guidelines for a deeper understanding of God's will, from vocational discernment to everyday decisions, and offer suggestions about how we can help our children discern God’s will for their lives.
11:00 a.m. • Workshop Session I
Second Conversion by Sally Robb
How do we inoculate our children against a loss of faith as they grow into young adults? We have to offer them more than just the "form" of faith. We need to help them open the door to living faith....we need a "second conversion."
Homeschool Beginnings by Anne Gross
For those who have recently begun this great adventure and/or those who are in the discernment process. Why? How? What? When? Where? – At home! (of course)
G.K. Chesterton, Father Brown, and the Saints by Jim Weiss
One of the 20th Century's wisest and wittiest authors was also one the great Catholic writers of all time. Jim will bring Father Brown to life and share more of Chesterton’s writings.
Homeschooling @ the Library by Stella Riker
Curious about curriculum? Interested about interlibrary loans? Ready for learning a new language? Discover all the library offers to homeschoolers from a librarian who is also a homeschooler.
12:30 p.m. Lunch
1:30 p.m. • Workshop Session II
Blessed, Broken, Given: Practical Advice for Married Couples by Anne & John Bielejeski
How can married couples stay connected with the Lord and with each other in the midst of the craziness of the homeschooling lifestyle? John and Anne will share some of the things that have kept their love growing and marriage strong throughout almost 25 years of marriage, 11 children, and 18 years of homeschooling.
Storytelling and Character-Building by Jim Weiss
In this workshop, Jim will tell stories that exemplify virtues such as perseverance, charity, piety, honor, and more. Jim will reference stores from classical literature and other literary pieces.
How Do I Parent in a Digital World? by Michael Mann
We will discuss the powerful role of the digital media in young people's lives and offer concrete strategies for helping kids take advantage of the amazing opportunities the Internet offers while minimizing danger and risk.
Homeschooling Through High School - Panel
Concerned about what to do for high school? Come to this panel discussion of experienced parents to learn about all the options for educating your children at home through the crucial high school years. You can homeschool for high school and survive!
Fireside Chat: Homeschooling Children with Special Needs
Join with other home educators for an informal chat with others who have children with special needs.
3:00 p.m. • Workshop Session III
Cultural Conflict by Fr. Mitch Pacwa, S.J.
Is a war being waged on Christian culture in the West? In this enlightening presentation, Fr. Pacwa addresses the urgency of the situation facing Christians and the need to defend our way of life against the overwhelming surge of secular humanism and anti-Christian sentiment so pervasive today.
Living the Annunciation by Sally Robb
God offers us the gift of seeing Him in many different ways. How can we learn to see His face, and accept His grace in the present moment, saying as His Blessed Mother did, "Fiat … let it be done to me according to Thy Word" … and transforming our lives into a "living annunciation."
Curiosity and the Dance of the Imagination – Igniting the Love of Learning by Michael Mann
We will discuss the essentials of a healthy curiosity and imagination. We will also examine the statements of Albert Einstein vs. the emerging research on the effects of Baby Einstein. Finally, we will offer strategies for a healthy curiosity and tips for stimulating the imagination.
Let’s Make a Deal Get Real! by Anne Gross
Hear it straight from those who know the most – those currently living the "hidden life" like the Holy Family. Come and listen to what homeschooling is really like! Let’s get real!
Teen Chat Session
Come join us for a "fireside chat" hosted by homeschoolers who have completed high school or college! Meet other homeschooling teens and get perspectives and advice from young adults who were home educated.