Category Archives: Sarita’s Word

A bi-weekly encouraging message from Sonlight’s President, Sarita Holzmann. Sarita’s Word is featured in The Beam.

Mar. 31, 2021

Sonlight offers a better alternative to contemporary YA fiction

By Sarita

"Books show us the world, and in that sense, too many books for adolescents act like funhouse mirrors, reflecting hideously distorted portrayals of life." Meghan Cox Gurdon, children's book reviewer for The Wall Street Journal I agree with that quote. … Continue reading →

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Mar. 29, 2021

Why Storytelling Matters for Your Homeschool

By Sarita

Imagine you grew up in an ancient indigenous culture with no books, no computers, no electricity. How would you have spent your evenings? Perhaps around a fire, listening to stories. Most cultures around the world have passed on their values … Continue reading →

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Mar. 24, 2021

4 House Rules for a Happy Homeschool Atmosphere

By Sarita

When the sun breaks out after many days of gray drizzle, my spirits lift. How about you? It's no surprise that the climate around us can really affect how we feel and act. Since you spend all day with your … Continue reading →

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Mar. 22, 2021

Don't Use Character Curriculum. Do This Instead to Teach Virtue

By Sarita

Though there are many worthy reasons to homeschool, many parents homeschool to instill their values and morals in their children. I find that a worthy goal. Beyond homeschoolers, I've noticed that others desire to teach morality, or its more old-fashioned … Continue reading →

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Mar. 15, 2021

Three Tips for Teaching Children About Work

By Sarita

"I did not have all the advantages your kids had," a woman told my husband. They were having an honest conversation about work. The woman shared what a hard time she has in life, bumping along from one part-time job … Continue reading →

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Mar. 12, 2021

How Books Help You Raise Proactive Kids Who Aren't Afraid to Fail

By Sarita

Nine-year-old Betsy was set up to fail. Primped and pampered her whole life, she had never done a chore or fixed her own hair. When circumstances changed and Betsy went to live with cousins on a Vermont farm, her new … Continue reading →

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Mar. 8, 2021

4 Reasons to Pursue Academic Excellence in Your Homeschool

By Sarita

Homeschoolers tend to do better than their traditionally-schooled peers on standardized tests. But once when I spoke at a homeschool group, I noticed a subtle, troubling attitude toward academics. I heard comments like: "Oh, we probably won't get to math … Continue reading →

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