Suggested Study Sequence

The courses listed below are appropriate for each level listed. The best sequence is determined by each student’s individual abilities and interests. Each study takes one school year to complete, with the following exceptions: Early American History for the primary level can be stretched out over two years when taught in the early elementary years. This can be done by completing 1-2 lessons each week for a two year study, or 3 lessons per week for a one year study. Geography Through Literature can be completed in a semester by completing 2 lessons per week.

Primary K-3rd Grade

Early American History (K-3rd grade)

Around the World with Picture Books Part I (K-3rd grade)

Around the World with Picture Books Part II (K-3rd grade)

Teaching Character/Primary (K-3rd grade)

History of the Horse (3rd-6th grade)

History of Science (3rd-6th grade)

Geography through Literature (3rd-7th grades)

4th Grade

Early American History Primary or Intermediate

History of the Horse (3rd-6th grade)

History of Science (3rd-6th grade)

Geography through Literature (3rd-7th grade)

History of Classical Music (4th-8th grade)

Around California (4th-6th grade)

Teaching Character Through Literature/Intermediate (4th-6th grade)

5th-6th Grade

Early American History Intermediate (5th-6th grade)

Modern American & World (5th-8th grade)

Ancient History (5th-8th grade)

Medieval History (5th-8th grade)

History of the Horse (3rd-6th grade)

History of Science (3rd-6th grade)

Geography through Literature (3rd-7th grade)

History of Classical Music (4th-8th grade)

Around California (4th-6th grade)

Teaching Character Through Literature/Intermediate (4th-6th grade)

Junior High 7th-8th Grade

Modern American & World (5th-8th grade)

Early American and World History (7th-9th grade)

Ancient History (5th-8th grade)

Medieval History (5th-8th grade)

History of Classical Music (4th-8th grade)

Senior High 9th-12th Grade

Early American and World History (7th-9th grade)

Ancient History Sr. High (9th-12th grade)

Medieval History Sr. High (10th-12th grade)

Modern U.S. and World History (11th-12th grade)

Why does BFB start with early American history?

In educational circles there is a current trend in the field of historical study that suggests teachers begin with the dawn of creation and teach history chronologically from that point. The theory of "beginning at the beginning" presents a number of misguided notions regarding traditional pedagogical approaches to historical study, as well as ignoring research on children's cognitive development.

The breakthrough work on cognitive development done by Jean Piaget (1896-1980) demonstrated that children's brains make connections in expanding circles of understanding. The young mind processes and retains information as it becomes more relative to the world in which it lives. These areas of understanding begin within the home, radiate out to extended family, then friends, then the community and so forth. In much the same way, a child comes to the study of history with interest as they relates to their expanding understanding of the world.

As students becomes more aware of their place within their family and community, the stories of American heroes and events become personal to them as they begin to identify themselves as citizens of this country. Surrounded by icons of our heritage—national holidays, presidential likenesses on currency, historical monuments, flags, anthems, parks—our young learner will naturally express interest in these symbols. In contrast, the events of ancient history are far removed from their world.

Throughout history children have traditionally learned their own history first—the Greeks taught young Greek scholars the history of Greece, English schoolboys studied the history of the British Empire and so forth. The study of ancient civilizations was introduced once students had been taught their own country's history. Knowing the history of one's own country provides a context for studying other cultures and time periods. If we can appreciate the heroism, sacrifice, struggles, mistakes, and traditions of our own history, we will have a framework upon which to build an appreciation of the remarkable contributions of other cultures.

On a very practical note, the availability of classic, award-winning works for children on ancient history is almost nil. The available, age-appropriate, books provide a cursory overview of the ancient world that undermines its cultural and historic relevance. Comprehending the ancient world's influence on western civilization in areas of law, government, philosophy, architecture, and the arts requires a maturity beyond the typical primary student.

American children's historical literature is without peer, and often becomes the genesis of a child's lifelong love of history. By beginning with American history, a student is presented a wealth of excellent literature that will inspire and inform. Tragically, many young students today are missing an entire genre of beautiful children's books due to the current trend of "beginning at the beginning." One of the sweetest experiences a parent can share with their child is to read aloud quality literature that not only encourages learning, but also builds healthy intellectual, emotional, and spiritual connections. Immerse yourself and your children in the wonderful art, the classic stories, and the powerful examples found in the best children's books.