Homeschool discounts at Carnton and Carter House

The Battle of Franklin Trust (Carnton and Carter House) is offering special deals for homeschoolers. Currently, homeschooling families can get into both houses for the price of one. It does not matter the size of the group, all they have to do is make a reservation. Contact Sarah Falck, Education Coordinator for The Battle of Franklin Trust at (615) 794-0903 or (615) 791-1861 or e-mail sarah at boft dot org. For more information about Carnton and the Carter House, check out The Battle of Franklin Trust's website.

British Swim School now hiring Swim Instructors

British Swim School of Williamson-Smyrna is a new swim lesson program opening in January 2018 in Franklin. We are currently hiring for full-time and part-time swim instructors. We are looking for outgoing, reliable individuals who enjoy working with kids and can teach children and parents in a fun, dynamic environment. No prior swim experience is necessary.

To apply, email Paul.garboczi@ at britishswimschool dot com.

Lifeguard Certification Training to be Offered this Fall

Summer is over, but it is not too early to start preparing your teen for summer job opportunities. The typical place teens seek a summer job is in retail or fast food areas. Although many skills may be learned, that is the whole summer - the time to be outside and enjoying the sun, spent usually indoors. If your teen is seeking a different opportunity where their job speaks summer and sun, they may want to consider

University of Tennessee Extension and Williamson County 4-H Offer STEM Classes

The University of Tennessee Extension and Williamson County 4-H are offering several STEM classes in the evenings. Classes are currently available for 6th to 12th grade students interested in Robotics, Engineering, 3D printing or Raspberry/Python programming. Fees are very reasonable just to cover supplies.

Class registrations are first come first serve and classes will start the second week of next month through April 2018. Classes will meet 13 times for 2-hour classes (Robotics are 1 ½ hour classes).

Students/families can call (615) 934-1291 with any questions.
 
For more information, check out the 4-H STEM Program brochure.

Guitar Lessons Are Awesome by Marty Keith

What do Taylor Swift, The Beatles, Chris Tomlin, and Steven Curtis Chapman all have in common? Three things actually. They play multiple instruments, they each started learning at a young age, and I teach their music to my students.

I love music. I love the guitar… and bass… and ukulele. I love teaching these instruments. There is satisfaction in knowing that I get to pass on to a new generation of students all of the wonderful things I have learned as a professional musician. I am a recording artist and have toured all over the United States for 20 years. I will do so as long as the Lord allows me to. But eventually, I will not be able to do it any more and neither will Taylor Swift or Chris Tomlin. Someone will have to fill that position. My goal is to help students
reach their musical aspirations so they can be a confident worship leader or the next major pop or country star, if that is their desire. 

 

Currently, I have students who have what it takes to get there and my job is to bring out the best of their abilities so they can make those dreams come true. Some want to have a general knowledge of an instrument or music theory. Some just want to play along to songs on the radio. I want to help each student find out what their musical goal is and help them achieve it.

Studies have proven that learning a musical instrument helps enhance brain development/function, concentration/attention, coordination, and pain relief among other things. Plus, there is hard proof that students who learn a musical instrument develop a better memory than those who do not learn one.

Being the father of a homeschool student, I understand the importance of time with your kids. Sports, homework, and life in general are always pulling at your schedule. I offer time slots throughout the day for homeschoolers so you can have the evenings free for other activities.

I am also a licensed retailer of musical instruments and accessories. Some music stores will sell you anything to make a few extra dollars, but not take into account what the student actually needs. It is important for me as a teacher to make sure that each of my students has an instrument that best fits their body and hands. For example: the strings on a guitar need to be high enough that they do not buzz when you pick an open string, but low enough that you do not have to push down on it so hard that it hurts your fingers to play a chord (especially for younger students). The height of the strings from the fretboard is called the “action.” This is not something that a lot of salesmen are going to make sure is addressed for your particular student. I will talk through all of the dynamics that make an instrument a good fit for your student, whether you choose to purchase instruments through me or not.

Instrument lessons are once a week for 30 minutes. Homeschool students get their first lesson FREE when you pay for the first month of lessons. Be sure to mention this article or the sidebar ad to receive your free lesson. You can read more about guitar lessons on my website.

Marty Keith is the owner of Edenbrooke Music. Edenbrooke Music strives to improve the quality of musical entertainment by improving talent though teaching, by improving sound through production, and by improving the career of the musician through performance and recording opportunity. Edenbrooke Music offers guitar, bass guitar, and ukulele lessons, instrument sales, live sound for special events, booking for touring artists, and music production services.

Marty grew up in Paducah, Kentucky. At age four, he began learning how to play the guitar from Herb Chapman, father of GRAMMY and Dove award winning artist Steven Curtis Chapman. The way Steven Curtis and Marty learned to play guitar is how Marty teaches his students to play.

Learn more at Edenbrooke Music and to learn more about Marty’s music visit his artist website at John Martin Keith.

You may contact Marty Keith by phone at 615-415-1942 or by email at johnmartinkeith at hotmail dot com.

New Sewing Classes for Homeschoolers

Learn hand stitching and sewing machine skills in classes offered by advanced teen seamstress, Abby Gustavson, in her Primrose Sewing Studio on the west side of Franklin. Classes, special events, workshops, and camps are offered throughout the year. For more information, visit the Primrose Sewing page on Facebook,  send an e-mail to primrosesewing at gmail dot com, and/or call (615) 506-7171.

Middle Tennessee Monarchs Homeschool Baseball

The Middle Tennessee Monarchs Homeschool Baseball Camp is right around the corner. This year the camp will be Friday, Sept. 8th from 6pm - 9pm and Saturday, Sept. 9th from 9am - 4pm. Early Bird price for the 2 day camp is $50. The price is $60 if you pay the day of the camp.
This baseball camp is open to middle school and high school homeschool boys ages 11-18. We're looking for athletes even if they've never played baseball before.

The Middle Tennessee Monarchs Homeschool Baseball Camp : Location: Joel Cheek Park
Address: Claude Yates Dr., Franklin, TN 37064
To go ahead and get registered for the camp go here:  https://www.research.net/r/MonarchsCamp2017
If anybody needs any more information or would just like to speak to one of our board members with specific questions they can contact: Barry Young at barry.young at healthstream dot com

Music City Archery Offers Homeschool Class and Discount

Every Wednesday at 2:30PM, Music City Archery offers an archery classes for homeschool families at a reduced rate. The classes are one hour long and include all equipment for $18 plus a 15% family discount with two or more family members. They also have classes Fridays at 10:00AM. Visit MusicCityArchery.com for more information.

Join the Franklin American Heritage Girl Troop TN0013

From americanheritagegirls.org

Is your daughter interested in joining the American Heritage Girls? There will be an informational meeting Monday, August 21, 2017 to learn about the Franklin American Heritage Girl troop, TN0013. American Heritage Girls is the premier national character development organization for girls ages 5 to 18 that embraces Christian values and encourages family involvement. To learn more about the organization visit the website.

 

The Franklin troop meets every other Monday at Christ Community Church from 7-8:30 pm (at the same time as the Boy and Cub Scouts).  Each month we have an optional service project or special event as well. Past events have been a Lock-In, Archery Event, Middle TN Camporee, Veteran's Day Parade and more.

 

Please join us  this Monday at Christ Community Church room B102 at 7 pm for a informational parent meeting and girl registration.

The 2017 Total Solar Eclipse in Williamson County, Tennessee

Image courtesy of NASA

Both of Williamson County’s public school districts will hold class on August 21, 2017, the day of the total solar eclipse. That’s another great reason to be a homeschooler!

What eclipse?
According to NASA, “On Monday, Aug. 21, 2017, a total eclipse will cross the entire United States, coast-to-coast, for the first time since 1918. Weather permitting, the entire continent will have the opportunity to view a partial eclipse as the moon passes in front of the sun, casting a shadow on Earth’s surface. Some will see a total eclipse along a path that begins near Lincoln City, Oregon and ends near Charleston, South Carolina. Solar eclipses occur when the moon

Start the Homeschool Year with Private Guitar Lessons

Marty Keith. photo cred: David Bailey

Marty Keith knows music. At age 4, Marty began learning how to play the guitar from Herb Chapman, father of GRAMMY and Dove award-winning artist Steven Curtis Chapman. As a full-time professional musician he performs live, records in studio, writes music for television and film, and has been teaching private guitar lessons for over twenty years.

Many of Marty's music students are homeschoolers, and as a homeschool dad, he gets it. He will even provide grades for your report card. 

Marty is accepting new guitar students. Besides guitar, Marty also

Screenshot of Marty Keith playing on ABC's Nashville

offers lessons on bass guitar, ukulele, stage performance, songwriting, and artist development. Adult students are welcome, too. Rental guitars are available for a small fee.

Marty offers first lesson free for homeschoolers. Lessons are 30-minutes, once a week (no extra charge for a 5-week month.) Hour lessons are available for advanced students.

Marty is conveniently located just half a mile off I-65 (Exit 65, Hwy. 96) in Franklin. Email: johnmartinkeith at hotmail dot com or call him at 615-415-1942.

Check out what some of Marty's students are saying:

After taking one lesson from Marty my entire outlook on music changed. I learned technique, explored different styles, and also began composing my own songs. I wouldn’t be the musician I am today without his patience, encouragement, and dedication to teaching. If you’re thinking at all about improving your skills as a musician, look no further than Edenbrooke Music. — Ali, 19

We have been so happy with guitar lessons from Marty Keith! In just 9 months my son is playing many songs and playing them well! I never would have guessed that he would be playing guitar like this in such a short time. Marty’s style is patient and thorough. He really cares about his students and wants the very best for each of them. — Amy, Franklin TN

I really like taking guitar lessons from Marty because he makes learning guitar fun and he lets me play songs that I like. — Logan, 11

My 16 year old son has been taking acoustic guitar and now electric guitar as well from Marty for the

past 3 years.   Marty is very talented, hard working, always on time, and a does an amazing job engaging my teenage son in the learning process.   His talent, teaching skills and caring attitude are wonderful! — Gwen, Brentwood TN

I would highly recommend Mr. Keith as a guitar teacher!  My son is 14 and he has really advanced this year!  He told me he has learned so much from him!  Lots of instruction. –Diana, Franklin TN

Our 10 year old really enjoys taking lessons from Marty.  His ability to teach her to play everything from Guns N Roses to Fleetwood Mac to old hymns keeps guitar fresh and fun.  We’ve really seen her progress over the months and create a collection of guitar music that is never boring.  Marty maximizes the lesson time so she learns something new each week to practice until the next lesson.  She enjoys playing guitar and ukulele now! — Lori, Brentwood TN

Marty Keith came highly recommended to us by friends. Our daughter started taking lessons from him almost three years ago.  We are very pleased with her continued progress and that she learns songs she enjoys playing. Marty is a knowledgeable professional musician, is organized with his communication and lessons, and is very encouraging to his students. — Rebecca, Brentwood TN

I have taken lessons from Mr. Marty for almost three years. He is a very good teacher, encourages me to continue learning, and gives me a variety of songs to play. –Zola, age 11

Marty Keith’s heart for God is displayed in his teaching and encouragement of young children. His passion for guitar and music, combined with his passion for Christ is the perfect environment for learning. I love the variety of his song selections and how he moves through them building confidence and the sense of accomplishment for my daughter…I’m truly thankful! — Anne, Franklin TN

It is my pleasure to recommend Marty Keith as a guitar mentor for your child. Marty is very patient, flexible and student focused meeting the needs of our family. I appreciate Marty′s ability to adapt his teaching methods that challenge my ADHD child′s interests. I am very pleased with my child′s

Fun Ways to Keep Learning this Summer

If you homeschool on a traditional schedule, which is usually August or September to May, the summer time is sacred to not only your children, but to you. It is the big reward of two to three months off from anything school and replacing it with nothing but a whole lot of fun. Well, it can still be like that by incorporating these fun ways that keep learning alive.

Let them choose a book

Take them to the library or a bookstore and let them choose books they want to read during the summer. Children are more likely to enjoy reading a book they have chosen for themselves rather than one they are required to read. If they are open to ideas, maybe you can convince them to choose

Williamson County Parks & Recreation Has Active Summer Fun Close to Home

If you are still trying to figure out what activities your children may enjoy this summer, look as close as the Williamson County Parks & Recreation (WCPR) department. There is a lineup of programs to keep your children active and reduce any possible chance of hearing, “I’m bored” from one of them this summer.

The end of school is around the corner for many of you. If so, you probably plan to put the books away, which will leave your children with free time on their hands. Even if you plan to continue doing school, changing up your school routine during the summer will add a pleasant twist to each day.
 

The WCPR is offering several camps and field trips for children, ages three to 17 years-old. There is a list of programs that will fit

Are You Ready for Family Camp?

Are You Ready for Family Camp?
A Life-changing Vacation Experience Awaits You at Deer Run
By Jada Daves, Deer Run Family Camp Director

Ahhh…just thinking about summer vacation gets me excited about warmer weather, longer days, and meaningful family time together. The options of where to go and what to do are countless, and trying to please my crew had become more of a dreadful chore than an enthusiastic adventure…until a couple of years ago when we had the opportunity to experience family camp. Our days were preplanned, the variety of activities engaged each personality type, and everyone agreed it was our best

Summer Volunteer Opportunity with The Heimerdinger Foundation

The Heimerdinger Foundation has a great summer volunteer opportunities for students 13 & up. The Heimerdinger Foundation prepares organic, nutrient-rich meals for people undergoing cancer treatment in Davidson and Williamson counties. Teen volunteers are needed to help prepare meals in the kitchen and help in the garden. Teens learn basic cooking skills, about health, nutrition, teamwork and leadership skills. Visit hfmeals.org for more information or contact volunteer@hfmeals.org

Get Ready For The Homeschool Family Day Camp At Deer Run!

HOMESCHOOL FAMILY DAY CAMP at DEER RUN: Friday, April 28

By Liz Gibson, Communications Director and Cofounder of Deer Run Camps & Retreats, Thompson’s Station, Tenn.

Spending planned recreational time outdoors as a family is not only a way to have fun, but a great way to build deeper relationships with each other. You will find yourself laughing, cheering each other on, and creating memories that last a life-time.

The staff at Deer Run Camps & Retreats have a passion to come alongside you to

9th-12th Graders Can Enter to Win $1,000 in the Century Farm Video Competition

CENTURY FARM VIDEO COMPETITION A Contest Sponsored by the  Williamson County Fair

Ever wanted to be a filmmaker, script writer, videographer, or all of these? Here’s your chance to tell a story on film and possibly win a cash prize. Your work will also contribute to the recorded history of Williamson County, and you and others, because of your research and video, will learn about the vital importance of farmers and farms to our county and state.

The Williamson County Fair (WCF) is sponsoring a new competition. $1000.00 in cash and other prizes will be awarded to

3 Great Summer Art Programs at Firstlight Arts Academy

Photo Source: Firstlight Arts Academy

It's time to register for summer activities. Start with these fun art programs at Firstlight Arts Academy:

CAMP-Classes

We mashed together two great ideas. We took the week-long summer camp idea, and combined it with a fantastic art class. We have 10-12 students per CAMP-Class with 2 instructors in the younger age groups. The fun is like a camp, yet the instruction is very personalized! Our CAMP-classes teach kids real art concepts while having a blast.

Come for art from 9 am to 3:30 pm all week. Bring a sack lunch and watch animation shorts or play games for the break from 12-1. Combine your morning CAMP-Class with the afternoon Summer ART Buffet to have a full day of art all week long – with a discount! Price is $135 to add the Summer ART Buffet to your CAMP-Class for all 5 days (savings of $15). Reservations are encouraged to ensure a spot.

• Art Garden – age 4 & 5
• Art Bugs – age 6 – 8
• Color Camp – age 8 – 12
• Toon Camp – age 9 – 14

The Summer ART Buffet 2017 AFTERNOONS

Our popular daily art classes begin on Tuesday, May 30. This is a customized

The WCPL Has Learning and Fun for Your Teenager by Jennifer Smeltser

When it comes to cool places for a teenager to “hang out”, a library is probably the last place a teenager would suggest. Well, many libraries, including the Williamson County Public Library (WCPL - Main Branch) are making changes to encourage teens to turn to the library for learning and fun. 

Many children are introduced to the library when they are elementary age or younger. Ask any toddler or preschooler what they think about library story time and - as best they can - they will tell you how much fun they have during that time. The spirit they have as a child usually diminishes by the time they

Off The Square's PETER PAN is FLYING back to Franklin for a second run!

OFF THE SQUARE THEATRE COMPANY, a new student-run company, is the very first theatrical production for Williamson County's brand new Academy Park Performing Arts Center. After months of renovation, the new theater is nearly complete, and we are blessed to join in the celebration as it finally opens to the public.

The Kindoll Adademy by Kristen Kindoll

I'm a maverick, a rebel with a cause, and a plain-old prospector. These flags fly proud, though a bit tattered at times. It is in the tradition of self-publishing and home-schooling, some of my alternative endeavors, that I wanted to expand my reach and create a learning academy.

Kindoll Academy has been in the works for over ten years. I initially conducted classes for my children and their friends. While homeschooling has many benefits, due to its construct of a one-on-one tutoring methodology, this positive has some innate

How to Teach Your Child the Value of a Thank You

I bet your children had a wonderful time this past Christmas opening all of their gifts. The wrapping paper was flying, decorative ribbons were tossed and eyes sparkled when they were set upon an “unexpected” gift just for them. It is always nice to receive gifts. As a gift giver, it is also nice to receive thank you notes. As we progress through the digital era, a hand-written thank you note is probably something you will continue to see less of in your life. Only a homeschool parent could turn that around and bring hand-written thank you notes back into popularity.

 

I do not know what it is about homeschool parents, but we have to turn everything into a learning experience. As a homeschooling

Barnes & Noble Cool Springs Educator Appreciation Days

To celebrate pre-K-12 educators, Barnes & Noble Cool Springs will kick off the second half of the school year and celebrate Educator Appreciation Days from Saturday, January 7, through Sunday, January 15, 2017. During Educator Appreciation Days, Barnes & Noble will offer Educators special discounts* including 25% off most merchandise like books, toys and games, various events including free workshops and educator receptions**, limited-time giveaways, while supplies last***, and the chance to win a selection of books from Sterling Publishing perfect for the classroom, valued at approximately $4, 000.

The number and type of books selected by Sterling Publishing will be in accordance with the