The Homeschool Resource

General (see sidebar for more categories)

Massanutten Regional Library .  Most people don’t realize that along with their free library card, they can request an account number and pin and do their “library-ing” all online!  You can view lists and due dates of your checked-out material, renew online and request resources from any of the 9 libraries in the system.  Let them know which library you want to  pick it up from, and they will give you a call to let you know when they have it ready for you!  Of course, it is still fun to go in and browse once in a while, but when I know what books I’m looking for, the online system is an incredible resource and time-saver!  Most of the system libraries have story-hours, craft times and reading programs — some even designed especially for homeschoolers!

Shenandoah Chess Club meets Thursdays at 6:30pm at the Shenandoah Library.  All levels are welcome.  Contact Eric Benson 652-1165 or call the library at 652-BOOK.

The Harrisonburg Children’s Museum located on Court Square downtown provides a great place for children ages 2-12 to have interactive playtime away from home.  They also offer a variety of 1-3 day classes on topics such as literature, art, science and drama — for which members receive a discount.  At only $75 a year for a family membership, this is a worthwhile investment.  There is always something new and fun to do at HCM.  Explore their website for all the current offerings. 

Stepping Stones, offered through Redeemer Classical School are classes ideal for elementary-aged homeschoolers.  Art, music, p.e., Latin, and drama are among the weekly, semester-long choices.  Art teacher Laura Carpenter is particularly popular and gifted.  Typically meeting on Wednesdays after regular school hours, each 45 minute class meets runs about $100 per semester.

Kinetic Kids is a gym/ studio for kids aged 6 months to 12 years.  Class choices include tumbling, music, dance, karate and open gym times.  There are also classes for parents and “parent recharge nights”.   Located just east of Harrisonburg.

Valley Homeschoolers Quizzing is a grades 1-6 Bible quizzing program that participates in the Virginia District quizzing program of the Church of the Nazarene. We offer two levels of quizzing: Red Level is for grades 1-3 and Blue Level is for grades 3-6. Third graders have a choice of which level they would like to compete.  Groups meet 7 afternoons a year and attend 4 quiz meets. Lessons are taught and reinforced at home.  Contact Lynette Long 540-564-0872 or klonginva@juno.com