Help!

[Kimberly in WA]

I am new to the FIAR program and am not sure where to start. I am finishing up Kindergarten with my 5 year old and have an almost 2 year old that wants to do everything too. He has just begun sitting for stories and is constantly bringing me books to read to him. I decided to give this program a try. I am confused as to what to buy. I have checked with the local library and they have all but one of the books. So I don't think I need those. But what are lap books? Would these be better for the kids? Thanks for your help.

Kimberly in WA:unsure: :unsure:

[Kristina J]

Sounds like you are on the right track! Books and the manual are all you need!

Some people put together lapbooks to add onto their homeschool experience. It is a great folder that summarizes what the child has learned through the book. It is not something you *have* to do, just sometimes fun! It is all up to you!

Here are some examples of the B4FIAR Fold N' Learns:
http://fiardigital.com/Before_Fold-and-Learn_.html

[Stacey in FL]

Just take it gentle and slow. Read the manual, read a book, do an activity or two. Don't miss out on the section in the back of the book for fun activities as well.
Welcome!!! :hi:

[MarieD]

Lapbooks can be a fun way to explore the story further but they are not necessary. Especially for your 2 yo. I have been using B4FIAR, and in the beginning (2-4yo) we just read and talked about one or two things in the manual at a time. As my dd got older (4.5-5yo), we started implementing the lapbook resources at homeshare (http://www.homeschoolshare.com/before_five_in_a_row_resources.php) and have gone back over the stories we have already rowed.

For what it is worth, we did not make lapbooks for every title.