I often reflect on the fact that we live in such a wonderful age to homeschool. There are countless resources available to families. It doesn't matter what your background is, what your style might be, because there really is something for everyone. I find that while our family has our favorites, I am constantly looking for ways to keep our studies fresh. Our family is a small one, with two children. I imagine that other families with many more than two kids might occasionally wish that there could be a resource that could be used for all ages. If that sentiment applies to you, I have some happy news for you. I have been gladly reviewing Bible Lessons and Scripture Songs for Dancing in His Arms, worksheets and CD, by Rebecca Lou, and guess what, it may be used for ages three to one hundred and three. 

I was very pleased to see how well organized this curriculum is put together. Author Rebecca Lou includes a Foreword that I appreciated. There is something about sharing our struggles and shortcomings that encourages others in their walk. It was some of those struggles that led to Rebecca creating these lessons, in order to share with others what she has and is learning. Isn't that wonderful? 

I don't know about you, but one of the things that I do when researching Christian companies, is to see if they provide a statement of faith. When it comes to teaching the Bible, I want to know that a company is faithfully and accurately preaching the Bible. I was happy to see that such a statement is included in this set, and that they are spot on.

There are thirty lessons included in this set, all with specific instructions in teaching them to every age group. That will be a great help for those that find themselves requiring help in learning how to study the Bible. The author offers plenty of suggestions in ways to use the material in the Introduction, as well as some helpful tips for getting started. Younger children can have the lesson read to them, while older children, and adults (yes you can use this too), can read aloud, silently, or in their quiet time. There are a variety of activities to go around, you’ll find coloring pages, fill in the blanks, matching, crossword puzzles, and other simple activities used to help students retain the message.

Do you know what else helps a message stick? Music. A wonderful addition to these lessons is a CD of Scripture based songs. Sung by children with sweet vocals and harmonies, this upbeat yet gentle collection of songs is perfect for playing in your classroom, car, or anywhere that you want to reinforce the memorization of God's Word. I can see this being used not only in accordance with these particular lessons, but in a Church or Awana setting where children prepare a song for a holiday celebration. They would be easy to learn and sing with coordinated motions. Even if you were to only use it for background music, it's a very nice CD.

As for the lessons, they can also be used in a variety of ways. You would do them out loud and together with the youngest ages of course. Older kids, students, and adults might read the Bible verses quietly and then discuss the lessons together. Or, this study, with its detailed instruction, can be a great way to teach students how to organize their private devotional time. If you choose that option, assuming the whole family uses the same material, everyone could still gather together at another time of day to discuss what they are learning. 

Personally, I like the quiet time way, with my daughters joining me afterwards to talk about the passage. They like this way also, as they can read without distraction, take notes, and digest the material. The possibilities are numerous with this study, which our family thinks is a good solid choice. If you find yourself in need of a good Bible study, then this may be the one for you.

-Product review by Laurie Gauger, The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine, LLC, November, 2018