Motherboard Books

"Imagine your kids building web sites. Imagine their sense of competence. They can do it!!" This comes from the homepage of Motherboard Books, a company founded by Phyllis Wheeler, producing computer science curriculum specifically designed for homeschool students. (Rest assured, though, that ANY student would benefit from this program.)

Our family (well, specifically, oldest!) had the opportunity to try out a downloadable study called "Let's Make a Web Page." Designed for ages 8-12, this 60 page e-book is available here for $19.99. In working through the book, Brian is able to download a trial software for free (30 days), and then learn various aspects of building a web-page. Created by a veteran homeschooling mom, it is a really neat little study that has taught him quite a bit of basic computer knowledge, and gives opportunity to "have something to show for it" at the end.
Brian's spending a good bit of time here these days!

I like that it is easy to understand, and gives hands-on project experience. For moms who have little-to-no computer knowledge, this is a great study to work through together! My only note is that for us, the availability of blog-building, etc, will preclude the need for a web-building software in the short-term. The graphics/design, also, on the book we tried, could use some updating in a computer-savvy generation in which everything they view has visual bells and whistles!

Nonetheless, this is a great computer text that would build a quick knowledge base. Other offerings from Motherboard include Web Site ABC's (for adults and older teens), Logo Adventures (ages 8-12, but I might try this one!), and Let's Make a Web Page Jr. (ages 7-9.)