2008 HEN Summer Conference Workshop Descriptions

The Family That Stays Together, Stays Together - Steve Demme – Opening Keynote
Steve relates how his family has been helped to maintain the integrity of their family as a unique, God-ordained institution. He teaches how to recognize and understand personality types, learning styles, and spiritual gifts, and how to accommodate and value the resultant blends. He shares good family read-aloud books, sports ideas, games to play together, work and chore ideas, and field trip suggestions.

Wise Fathers and Wise Sons – Steve Demme
Proverbs says that a wise son makes a glad father. And we know that a wise father can aid in making a glad son. As the father of four young men, Steve shares his own experiences as a son and now as a father in how to be a wise father. He’ll give insights into how to raise wise sons and will share stories of famous sons and their faithful fathers, from David & Solomon to Ken Ham and his own dad.

Been There-Done That! –Panel Discussion
We’ve reunited a very special “mystery” panel of ladies who’ve graduated all of their children from their homeschools. Bring your questions and join these well-known Omaha area veteran homeschool moms as they reflect on their time as homeschooling and share their wealth of wisdom gained from many years of experience.

Quality Homeschooling on A Shoestring Budget- Cindy Norton
Cindy returns to this year’s conference with tips on how to save money finding great curriculum without breaking the bank OR compromising your child’s education.

Pride and Expectations- Steve Demme
This workshop is Steve’s testimony of the last fifteen years as the father of a Down’s syndrome child. He shares what his family has learned as a result of Johnny’s physical problems, unique development, and the special, rewarding, and joyful role he has played in their lives.

Organizational Virtues- Denise Friesen
Denise doesn’t claim to be an expert. However, inspired by Titus 2, she provides practical insight into how to live our lives, love our husbands and children, and be busy at home. In this workshop, you will learn 10 tips to not only make mom happy, but to help make the home a happy one by organizing her prayer life, her time, her kitchen, her home, her office and her calendar.

When Times Are Tough: Why I Homeschool-Tricia Croushorn
Do you find yourself at the end of your rope at times? Does the criticism and questions of family, friends, the world and possibly your student have you questioning your resolve? Tricia provides practical and proven ideas to help through the tough times.

Homeschool Graduates Tell Their Stories-Panel Discussion
What’s it really like to finish and graduate from high school at home? Those contemplating homeschooling in high school won’t want to miss this! These young men and women will tell their stories of “what it was really like” homeschooling in high school and how it prepared them for the adult world. They’ll answer your questions about the practicalities, opportunities, and challenges awaiting those who are considering finishing high school at home.

New Homeschooler Orientation Meeting-Sharon Miller
Whether you’re new to homeschooling or just considering it, come and receive lots of helpful information about getting started, getting connected and finding the resources and activities available to homeschoolers in the Omaha area.

The Political Battle For Home Education Rights in Nebraska – Jay Hammans
Jay will be discussing the political landscape for NE home educators in 2008 including a recap of LB 1141 and the likelihood of future legislation. In addition, Jay will provide an introduction to the new Nebraska Home Educators Political Action Committee which is focused on identifying, aiding, and assisting Nebraska legislative candidates who are pro-home education. Special guests for this discussion are State Senator Tony Fulton from Lincoln (District 29), along with home school graduate and candidate for State Senate in Elkhorn; Beau McCoy (District 39).

The Great Commission and Home Education-Steve Demme – Closing Keynote
Using Ephesians as a model, Steve shows how home education plays a unique and essential role in fulfilling the great commission and establishing God’s Kingdom. With plenty of practical tips and personal experiences, Steve helps us see the big picture and how we fit into it.