tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13819113265648931992024-03-05T01:31:09.371-05:00Everything HomeschoolingHomeschool Activities - Homeschool Lessons - Homeschool CurriculumSherri Linsenbachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729044389931914911noreply@blogger.comBlogger100125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1381911326564893199.post-12521335698066231212023-10-09T13:37:00.004-04:002023-10-09T13:37:44.144-04:00Monday Homeschool + Weekly Learning Ideas<b>What do we do on Monday</b> when our weeks become overly busy or we face unexpected difficulties?<br><br>
<b>Some weeks,</b> everything flows smoothly. <b>Other weeks,</b> things are more challenging.<br><br>
<b>Life doesn’t always go smoothly.</b> This, in itself, is a good homeschool lesson. Having the ability to cope, to be flexible, to change directions, to adjust, to laugh at life’s lemons and to smile at simple joys – these are skills that make life and homeschool easier.<br><br>
<b>Yet, we still have to Do Something on Monday</b> when facing a busy week. What do we do when we haven’t had time to think of activities or lesson plans?<br><br>
<b><i>What Do I Do Monday?</i> is a book by John Holt,</b> who has provided momentous ideas on education and learning. Mr. Holt was a homeschool pioneer, whose thoughts, beliefs, and writings on homeschooling and unschooling were ahead of his times.<br><br>
<b>Prior to writing numerous books on how children learn</b> (and how they fail), John was a school teacher. But as a teacher, his focus was primarily on observing learning processes in children, rather than forcing a curriculum on them. As a result, his views often conflicted with those of school administrators.<br><br>
<b>So John turned his attention to helping parents and teachers.</b> He shared first-hand experiences, insight, and details on children actively engaged in learning. He spent years with students and with families, closely observing how children learned best, then documenting and sharing his findings.<br><br>
<b>Some of John’s books include</b> <i>How Children Fail</i>, <i>How Children Learn</i>, the previously mentioned <i>What Do I Do Monday?</i>, <i>Freedom and Beyond</i>, and others. His books can be found in libraries or online, and are especially inspirational to homeschooling and unschooling families.<br><br>
<b>Here are some learning ideas and quotes,</b> courtesy of John Holt:<br><br>
<b>* “I believe that we learn best when we,</b> not others, are deciding what we are going to try to learn, and when, and how, and for what reasons or purposes.” – John Holt<br><br>
<b>* Ask your children: “What would YOU like to do Monday?”</b> If they can’t think of anything, try a 10-minute brainstorming session on what could be interesting, new, different, fun, etc. Then allow them to decide what they'd like to learn, and when and how, and give them the freedom to pursue those ideas this week.<br><br>
<b>* Make lists of favorite things</b> during the day, the weeks, and in the months to come. Keep a running list in a notebook or journal. Encourage everyone in the family to keep his or her own list. Then review your lists for learning ideas each week.<br><br>
<b>* Examples:</b> Here are some examples of "favorite things" from John Holt.<br><br>
<b>1. Places you like.</b> These can be big places, or they can be little places, and you can like them for different reasons. Put them on your list, as many as you can think of, then learn more about those places.<br><br>
<b>2. People you’d like to know.</b> Jot down the names of people who interest you, then learn more about them. They can be people from the past, people in the news today, people in your community, or even ancestors in your family.<br><br>
<b>3. Books you’d like to read.</b> One favorite book can lead to another. Keep a list of books you’d like to read online or check out from the library. Write down favorite authors, too, and read other books they’ve written.<br><br>
<b>4. Paintings, sculptures, or other artwork.</b> Keep a running list of art projects or techniques you want to try. Learn about different art movements or styles, such as Cubism, Pointillism, Futurism, Pop Art, etc., and try your hand at them.<br><br>
<b>5. Things you like to do.</b> These can be trivial (simple) or not so trivial (more complex). Ideas could include cutting-and-pasting paper shapes, making castles from boxes, building structures with construction kits, writing skits or plays to perform, learning to play an instrument, making doll clothes, building a bookshelf, creating a computer program, etc.<br><br>
<b>In just these 5 ideas listed above,</b> there could be weeks of learning ideas, hands-on activities, and new knowledge and skills gained through them.<br><br>
<b>Tip: An “Idea Jar”</b> is an alternative, or a complement, to list-making. Have kids jot ideas on paper, then cut them apart, fold them up, and drop them into the Idea Jar. Each Monday, have them draw a few ideas from the jar, and there’s your learning ideas for the week!<br><br>
<b>Continue adding</b> to the jar or to your lists as often as possible. Then you'll always have learning ideas at your fingertips each Monday!<br><br>
<b>Happy homeschooling!</b><br><br><br>
Sherri Linsenbachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729044389931914911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1381911326564893199.post-9625199534780428702023-09-25T11:57:00.000-04:002023-09-25T11:57:42.471-04:005 Secrets for a Fun, Educational Homeschool Week<b>Here's 5 Secrets a Homeschool Family</b> shared with us:<br><br>
<b>5 Subjects – 5 Days.</b> Or one subject per day.<br><br>
<b>This homeschool family shared "5 Secrets"</b> about their interesting homeschool schedule. A typical homeschool day for them revolves around one subject per day (or five subjects per week).<br><br>
<b>And best of all, their schedule is flexible,</b> depending on how they’re feeling each week.<br><br>
<b>Here’s an example from one of their recent weeks:</b><br><br>
<b>1. Monday - Language Arts / Literature:</b> Selecting favorite books to read and using them to recognize nouns, verbs, and all parts of speech. Then creating and writing sentences, paragraphs, and their own stories, while focusing on using descriptive parts of speech, new vocabulary words, and proper spelling.<br><br>
<b>2. Tuesday – Science / Experiments:</b> Using the Scientific Method to test ideas or hypotheses when contemplating a variety of experiments. The experiments they choose can last the entire day, from morning till night, and Mom said Science Day is their favorite day of the week. The kids eagerly record their ideas, experiments, predictions, test methods, and results in their Science Journals at the end of Science Day, too.<br><br>
<b>3. Wednesday – Social Studies / History:</b> Currently they’re reading the “Who Was?” series of historical biographies, which include over 200 books, such as <i>Who Was Ferdinand Magellan?, Who Was Sacagawea?, Who Was Albert Einstein?, Who Was Amelia Earhart?, Thomas Edison, Ben Franklin, Mark Twain, Martin Luther King, Maria Tallchief, John Kennedy, Louis Armstrong, The Beatles</i>, etc. The kids are enjoying the format, and the topics cross over into Literature, Science, the Arts, as well as providing social issues to discuss and their impact on today’s culture.<br><br>
<b>4. Thursday – Math / Technology:</b> Since Math Day lasts all day, they sometimes start with reviewing math facts, such as using Multiplication and Division Flash Cards and timing the kids on how quickly they can get the answers. Then they move on to Math Games, such as Swat, Splat, or Math Bingo. They might also use manipulatives or toys such as Math Fidget Toys, Tubo toy, or Montessori-type math items to practice Math skills. Soon they’re creating with Marble Run sets, Mazes, Lego blocks, Construction sets, Bridge-Building kits, etc. These use mathematical planning, reasoning skills, logic, creative thinking, and critical thinking skills. At some point during the day, they’ll do some math worksheets, which usually focus on solving word problems.<br><br>
<b>5. Friday – Cultural Arts / Music:</b> This is another favorite day for the kids, according to Mom. The kids get to choose the types of art, craft, and music activities they want to do on Fridays. Mom also said she found it interesting that if the kids read a historical biography such as <i>Who Were the Beatles?</i>, they were interested in playing Beatles music that week. Or if they read <i>Who Was Pablo Picasso?</i>, the kids were engrossed in creating their own versions of Picasso art.<br><br>
<b>Although each of the days above has a designated subject</b>, this family finds that topics and subject areas often overlap.<br><br>
<b>So even if Monday is Literature Day</b>, they could find themselves thinking about Math if they’re reading <i>The Phantom Tollbooth</i>, or Science and Time Travel if reading <i>A Wrinkle in Time</i>.<br><br>
<b>Or if Wednesday is History Day</b>, they could be covering Geography or Science or Math or Art or Music, depending on the type of Historical Biographies they’re reading.<br><br>
<b>Also, there’s flexibility</b> in this family’s schedule. If they don’t “feel like” Social Studies on Wednesday or Math on Thursday, they’ll switch things up.<br><br>
<b>Or if Mom realizes the kids are getting overwhelmed</b> by too much Math one day, they’ll switch to doing something else, even if it’s unrelated to Math.<br><br>
<b>Maybe they’ll take a field trip</b> to a local museum or library, or go on a picnic and a nature hike, or bake or cook favorite recipes, or bring out tubs of craft items and create something off the top of their heads. They often find that Math works its way into whatever they’re doing, anyway.<br><br>
<b>Overall, they’ve found this homeschool schedule fun, interesting, educational, flexible</b>, and a great way to provide a well-rounded pool of knowledge and learning activities. It’s something your family might enjoy experimenting with, too.<br><br>
<b>Click any of the Labels below</b> for more ideas for all subjects areas.<br><br>
<b>Happy homeschooling!</b><br><br><br>
Sherri Linsenbachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729044389931914911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1381911326564893199.post-16885134658881284912023-09-10T18:43:00.001-04:002023-09-11T09:57:05.962-04:00September Learning IdeasSeptember has 30 days, and that’s 30 new things to learn about this month. <br><br>
Here’s some tips and ideas to get you started: <br><br>
* Fall begins this month – find out when and why. <br><br>
* Track the time of sunrises and sunsets this September. Compare the differences between the times in early September and the times in late September. How does this affect your daily activities? <br><br>
* Record the high and low temperatures in early September and in late September. How much do they vary? Why might it be cooler in late September, compared to early September? <br><br>
* Start creating fall crafts on the 1st day of September and continue each day of the month. By the end of the month, you’ll have armloads of decorations to make your room and your home “fall festive” and “fall welcoming.” <br><br>
* National Hummingbird Day occurs in September. Provide extra nectar for them, or make sugar-water. That will give them energy for their flight south in a few weeks. Where do they go each fall? Research this and create a report on hummingbirds, complete with maps and illustrations. <br><br>
* National Wildlife Day is September 4. Read books on wildlife, such as Rewilding: Bringing Wildlife Back Where It Belongs; Wildlife Ranger Action Guide; Animal Habitats; Homes in the Wild; and similar books to enjoy and discuss. <br><br>
* Cheese Pizza Day is September 5. Make your own cheese pizza – and add any toppings you like! <br><br>
* Read-a-Book Day is September 6. Start a reading log and try to read a book a day. At the end of this year, add up the total number of books you’ve read! <br><br>
* Share Your Care Day is September 9. Do you remember Care Bears, or do you still have one? You don’t need one, though, to show you care about someone. Think of all the ways you can show others you care about them. <br><br>
* National Grandparents Day is September 10. This is an excellent day to show your grandparents how much you care about them, too! <br><br>
* Ants on a Log Day is September 12. Have you ever made Ants on a Log? If not, this is the day to do it! See how creative you can be, making delicious treats like this. Or create new treats and give them a new name. <br><br>
* Kids Take Over the Kitchen Day is September 13. See recipes for kids at this link (<a href="https://cookingwithkids.org/recipes/" target="_blank">https://cookingwithkids.org/recipes/</a>) or check out some library books on kid cooks, such as Kids Can Cook Anything; The Big, Fun Kids Cookbook; The Recipe-a-Day Kids Cookbook; and others. <br><br>
* National Parents Day Off is September 14. When kids take over the kitchen on the 13th, have them prepare a meal for the 14th, when parents “have the day off.” Since this day is also National Live Creative Day, have kids plan creative learning activities for today, the 14th, while parents take the day off! <br><br>
* As Fall approaches, paint or sketch the trees and scenery outside your window. Then, in a few weeks, paint or sketch the same scene again. Have the leaves begun to change colors? Why is this? Paint the scene again in October or December. How is it different, and why? <br><br>
* Take a September Field Trip to your local library and see the books they’ve displayed there this month. Try books, such as Heroes: September 11, 2001; Goodbye, Summer, Hello, Autumn; Apple Pies and Hayrides; Why Do Leaves Change Colors; and more. <br><br>
See the September calendar here for more ideas this month: <br>
<a href="https://nationaldaycalendar.com/september/" target="_blank">https://nationaldaycalendar.com/september/</a> <br><br>
For more September activities, see these: <br>
<a href="https://www.whereimaginationgrows.com/kids-activities-for-september/" target="_blank">https://www.whereimaginationgrows.com/kids-activities-for-september/</a> <br><br>
You’ll see ideas for working parents, families, stepfamilies, pets, dogs, autumn equinox, fall crafts, gymnastics, outdoor activities, pirates, hobbits, creating diaries, creating comic books, magic, apples, orchards, apple math, apple drop, fall foliage, fall tree art, fall wreaths, and more! <br><br>
Turn the ideas into fun learning adventures! <br><br>
Happy homeschooling! <br><br><br>
Sherri Linsenbachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729044389931914911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1381911326564893199.post-72724901592177805892023-08-26T17:09:00.001-04:002023-08-26T17:09:17.800-04:00Free Worksheets for Math, Science, Language Arts, Social Studies<b>If your kids enjoy worksheets</b>, here are <b>Hundreds of Free, Printable Worksheets</b> for <b>Math, Science, Language Arts, Social Studies</b>.<br><br>
<b>But if your kids do NOT enjoy worksheets</b>, these links provide a <b>multitude of topics to explore and learn more about</b> throughout the year.<br><br>
<b>These sites are especially easy</b> to browse and easy to download or print worksheets.<br><br>
<b>MATH:</b><BR><BR>
<b>* Math Worksheets Grades 1 – 6:</b><br><br>
<b>Here’s free, printable Math Worksheets</b> for each week of the year, on Numbers, Patterns, Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication, Division, Measurement, Money, Mental Math, and more for Grades 1 – 6:<br><br>
<a href="https://www.mathworksheets.com" target="_blank">https://www.mathworksheets.com</a><br><br>
<b>* More Math Worksheets Grades K – 7:</b><br><br>
<b>Here’s more free, printable Math Worksheets</b>, focusing on Math Skills, Math Puzzles, Money, Measurement, Roman Numerals, Fractions, Decimals, Venn Diagrams, Bar Graphs, and more for Grades for K – 7:<br><br>
<a href="https://www.futuristicmath.com/worksheets.html" target="_blank">https://www.futuristicmath.com/worksheets.html</a><br><br>
<b>* Even More Math Worksheets Grades K – 8:</b><br><br>
<b>Here’s even more free, printable Math Worksheet</b>s, focusing on Math, Geometry, Algebra, Equations, Percentages, Measurement, Statistics, Logistics, Trigonometry, Calculus, and more for Grades K – 8:<br><br>
<a href="https://www.mathworksheets4kids.com/math.php" target="_blank">https://www.mathworksheets4kids.com/math.php</a><br><br>
<br>
<b>SCIENCE:</b><BR><BR>
<b>* Science Worksheets Grades K – 6:</b><br><br>
<b>Here’s free, printable Science Worksheets</b>, focusing on Insects, Plants, Animals, Life Cycles, Classification, Human Body, Matter, Mixtures, Force, Motion, Heat, Chemical Changes, Earth, Solar System, and more for Grades K – 6:<br><br>
<a href="https://www.ecosystemforkids.com/worksheets.html" target="_blank">https://www.ecosystemforkids.com/worksheets.html</a><br><br>
<b>* More Science Worksheets Grades 1 – 7:</b><br><br>
<b>Here’s more free, printable Science Worksheets</b>, focusing on Plants, Insects, Animals, Dinosaurs, Herbivores, Food Chain, Human Body, Five Senses, Weather, Electricity, Machines, Magnetism, Periodic Table, and more for Grades 1 – 7:<br><br>
<a href="https://www.mathworksheets4kids.com/science.php" target="_blank">https://www.mathworksheets4kids.com/science.php</a><br><br>
<br>
<b>LANGUAGE ARTS:</b><BR><BR>
<b>* Language Arts Worksheets Grades K – 12:</b><br><br>
<b>Here’s free, printable Language Arts Worksheets</b>, focusing on Reading (Story Elements, Comprehension, Literature); Spelling (Word Lists by Grade); Vocabulary (Dictionary Skills, Word Roots, Prefix, Suffix); Grammar (Parts of Speech, Sentence Structure); Composition (Writing, Editing); and more for Grades K – 12:<br><br>
<a href="https://www.k12reader.com/reading-worksheets-by-main-subject/" target="_blank">https://www.k12reader.com/reading-worksheets-by-main-subject/</a><br><br>
<b>* More Language Arts Worksheets Grades 1 – 8</b>:<br><br>
<b>Here’s more free, printable Language Arts Worksheets</b>, focusing on Phonics, Alphabet, Vocabulary, Sentence Structure, Writing Prompts, Grammar, Comprehension, Cause and Effect, Metaphors, Similes, Idioms, Alliteration, and more for Grades 1 – 8:<br><br>
<a href="https://www.mathworksheets4kids.com/language-arts.php" target="_blank">https://www.mathworksheets4kids.com/language-arts.php</a><br><br>
<br>
<b>SOCIAL STUDIES:</b><BR><BR>
<b>* Social Studies Worksheets Grades 1 – 6:</b><br><br>
<b>Here’s free, printable Social Studies Worksheets</b>, focusing on Colonial America, Fifty States, Map Skills, Continents, Oceans, Landforms, Explorers, Presidents, Famous Men, Famous Women, and more for Grades 1 – 6:<br><br>
<a href="https://www.mathworksheets4kids.com/social-studies.php" target="_blank">https://www.mathworksheets4kids.com/social-studies.php</a><br><br>
<br>
<b>* More Social Studies Worksheets Grades 1 – 8:</b><br><br>
<b>Here’s more free, printable Social Studies Worksheets</b>, focusing on Explorers, Map Skills, Landforms, Notable People, Native Americans, Early America, American Revolution, Branches of Government, the Wars, States and Capitals, and more for Grades 1 – 8:<br><br>
<a href="https://www.superteacherworksheets.com/full-social-studies.html" target="_blank">https://www.superteacherworksheets.com/full-social-studies.html</a><br><br>
<br>
<b>FUN LEARNING ACTIVITIES:</b><BR><BR>
<b>Hands-On Activities, Unschooling Ideas, Science Experiments, STEM Projects</b>, and hundreds of FUN learning activities are available here on our site. Just click the labels below. And remember to Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter in the column at right.<br><br>
Happy Homeschooling!<br><br><br>
Sherri Linsenbachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729044389931914911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1381911326564893199.post-67406555145925179012023-08-16T14:04:00.001-04:002023-08-16T14:04:49.799-04:0040+ STEM and STEAM Activities<b>Create your own STEM Academy!</b> We hear a lot about STEM School or STEM Academy or STEAM Projects.<br><br>
<b>STEM</b> stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Math.<br><br>
<b>STEAM</b> includes Art, so it's Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math.<br><br>
<b>Here are 40+ STEM and STEAM Activities</b> to start your own STEM Academy!<br><br>
<b>Note: If you keep Lesson Logs</b>, these activities fall under Science, Math, Technology, Language Arts, Reading, Writing, Social Studies, History, Arts, Research Skills, and Life Skills. Take the ideas and run with them!<br><br>
<b>40+ STEAM and STEM Activities with links to projects:</b> <br><br>
* Bubble Flute (<a href="https://classroom.littlebits.com/inventions/bubble-flute" target="_blank">Click here</a>)<br>
* Rainbow Colors Experiment (<a href="https://www.thoughtco.com/rainbow-in-a-glass-density-demonstration-604258" target="_blank">Click here</a>) <br>
* Musical Glass Xylophone (<a href="https://www.experimentarchive.com/experiments/glass-bottle-xylophone" target="_blank">Click here</a>) <br>
* Kite Creation (<a href="https://www.experimentarchive.com/experiments/plastic-bag-kite" target="_blank">Click here</a>) <br>
* Bridge Building (<a href="https://www.experimentarchive.com/experiments/popsicle-stick-bridge" target="_blank">Click here</a>) <br>
* Skyscraper Construction (<a href="https://www.centerforarchitecture.org/k-12/resources/build-your-own-skyscraper-using-toothpicks-marshmallows-and-spaghetti/" target="_blank">Click here</a>) <br>
* Dome Building Project (<a href="https://craft.ideas2live4.com/2016/01/21/how-to-make-a-cardboard-play-dome/" target="_blank">Click here</a>)<br>
* Miniature Furniture Creations (<a href="https://www.centerforarchitecture.org/k-12/resources/how-to-create-miniature-3d-furniture/" target="_blank">Click here</a>) <br>
* Sailboat Creations (<a href="https://www.experimentarchive.com/experiments/homemade-sailboat" target="_blank">Click here</a>) <br>
* Snack Pulley Project (<a href="https://leftbraincraftbrain.com/goldfish-crackers-steam-activity-snacks" target="_blank">Click here</a>) <br>
* Solar Race Cars (<a href="https://www.sciencebuddies.org/science-fair-projects/project-ideas/Energy_p043/energy-power/how-to-build-solar-powered-car" target="_blank">Click here</a>) <br>
* Solar Leaf + Art Projects (<a href="https://www.mudandbloom.com/blog/2019/7/21/how-to-make-nature-sun-prints" target="_blank">Click here</a>) <br>
* Battery Potato Clock (<a href="https://www.thoughtco.com/potato-battery-power-an-led-clock-606320" target="_blank">Click here</a>) <br>
* Radio from Bottle (<a href="https://makezine.com/projects/bottle-radio/#.UAgwsGme7Yo" target="_blank">Click here</a>) <br>
* Motor Construction (<a href="https://www.education.com/science-fair/article/no-frills-motor/" target="_blank">Click here</a>) <br>
* Tiny Dancers Creation (<a href="https://babbledabbledo.com/steam-project-tiny-dancers-homopolar-motor/" target="_blank">Click here</a>) <br>
* Magic Wand Creation (<a href="https://babbledabbledo.com/how-to-make-a-magic-wand/" target="_blank">Click here</a>) <br>
* Spectroscope Construction (<a href="https://www.instructables.com/DIY-Spectroscope/" target="_blank">Click here</a>) <br>
* Coding Card Game (<a href="https://teachyourkidscode.com/coding-unplugged-with-a-deck-of-cards/" target="_blank">Click here</a>) <br>
* Coding with Hotwheels (<a href="https://teachyourkidscode.com/learn-to-code-unplugged-with-hotwheels/" target="_blank">Click here</a>) <br>
* Coding Unplugged Activities (<a href="https://code.org/files/Hour-of-Code-Unplugged-Activities.pdf?ref=create-learn.us" target="_blank">Click here</a>) <br>
* Flappy Bird Coding Game (<a href="https://studio.code.org/flappy/1" target="_blank">Click here</a>) <br>
* Food Color Fireworks (<a href="https://www.thoughtco.com/make-under-water-fireworks-603370" target="_blank">Click here</a>)<br>
* Color Separation Experiment (<a href="https://www.thoughtco.com/chalk-chromatography-how-to-605965" target="_blank">Click here</a>) <br>
* Slippery Slime Creations (<a href="https://www.thoughtco.com/easy-recipe-to-make-oobleck-605996" target="_blank">Click here</a>) <br>
* Glow-in-the-Dark Slime (<a href="https://www.thoughtco.com/make-glow-in-the-dark-slime-605990" target="_blank">Click here</a>) <br>
* Glitter Slime (<a href="https://www.thoughtco.com/easy-to-make-glitter-slime-recipe-609154" target="_blank">Click here</a>) <br>
* Modeling Clay (<a href="https://www.thoughtco.com/modeling-clay-recipes-604165" target="_blank">Click here</a>) <br>
* Glue from Milk (<a href="https://www.thoughtco.com/make-non-toxic-glue-from-milk-602220" target="_blank">Click here</a>) <br>
* Colorful Candy Crystals (<a href="https://www.thoughtco.com/how-to-make-rock-candy-607414" target="_blank">Click here</a>) <br>
* Ice Cream in a Bag (<a href="https://www.thoughtco.com/how-to-make-ice-cream-in-a-bag-602195" target="_blank">Click here</a>) <br>
* Soda Bottle Explosion (<a href="https://www.thoughtco.com/make-mentos-and-soda-volcano-eruption-605994" target="_blank">Click here</a>) <br>
* Volcano Variations (<a href="https://www.thoughtco.com/take-volcano-science-project-to-next-level-4065668" target="_blank">Click here</a>) <br>
* String Art Creations (<a href="https://kidsactivitiesblog.com/191877/string-art-2" target="_blank">Click here</a>)<br>
* Math Art Projects (<a href="https://www.mathartprojects.com" target="_blank">Click here</a>) <br>
* Math LEGO Tessellations (<a href="https://littlebinsforlittlehands.com/lego-tessellation-activity-kids-steam/" target="_blank">Click here</a>) <br>
* 3D Art Tessellations (<a href="http://www.tessellations.org/real-materials-tessellations-15.shtml" target="_blank">Click here</a>)<br>
* Marble Course Creations (<a href="https://fun-a-day.com/marble-course" target="_blank">Click here</a>) <br>
* LEGO Maze (<a href="https://www.mombrite.com/lego-marble-maze" target="_blank">Click here</a>) <br>
* Colorful Cardboard Maze (<a href="https://frugalfun4boys.com/how-to-make-a-cardboard-box-marble-labyrinth-game" target="_blank">Click here</a>) <br>
* Math Infinity Fun (<a href="https://www.thoughtco.com/infinity-facts-that-will-blow-your-mind-4154547" target="_blank">Click here</a>) <br>
* Magic Squares Math Practice (<a href="https://www.thoughtco.com/multiplication-magic-squares-2311916" target="_blank">Click here</a>) <br><br>
<b>Remember to discuss and review the projects together.</b> Take photos and record the experiments and activities. Have kids write descriptions of their experiments and their thoughts on them.<br><br>
<b>Brainstorm ways to build upon</b> the activities or create variations of them. Then plan future projects for more STEM and STEAM fun and learning!<br><br>
<b>Happy homeschooling!</b><br><br><br>
Sherri Linsenbachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729044389931914911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1381911326564893199.post-33262595708453753622023-08-09T13:53:00.001-04:002023-08-09T13:53:45.859-04:00Love of Learning + Months (Years) of Activities!<B>What’s more important</B> than education and learning? <B>The LOVE of learning!</B><BR><BR>
<B>How do children</B> develop a <B>love of learning</B>? <BR><BR>
<B>By immersing themselves</B> in things they <B>enjoy</B>, things that <B>interest</B> them, and things they <B>wonder</B> about.<BR><BR>
<B>Below, we’ll include many “love of learning” ideas</B> for your children to do, to experiment with, to research, to learn more about. These will cover Science, Math, Technology, Life Skills, Social Studies, Reading, Writing, Literature, Art, Music, and more.<BR><BR>
<B>Any topics that interest your children</B>, or that they wonder about, will be learned and retained more thoroughly when topics or ideas <B>captivate and fascinate</B> them.<BR><BR>
<B>The brain has a huge capacity</B> for <B>constantly learning</B>, for <B>continuously absorbing</B> new information, and for <B>storing and recalling</B> this knowledge. This occurs <B>more rapidly</B> when thoughts and ideas are <B>truly interesting</B> to your children.<BR><BR>
<B>Provide the freedom and flexibility</B> for your children to wonder, ponder, peruse, and use the vast amount of knowledge and wisdom that’s literally at their fingertips.<BR><BR>
<B>Allow children time to experiment, create, try new things, and simply play</B> throughout their day.<BR><BR>
<B>How do children “learn how to learn”?</B><BR><BR>
<B>Simple, really: “Children learn as they play</B>. Most importantly, <B>in play children learn how to learn</B>.” – O. Fred Donaldson, Author and Play Specialist<BR><BR>
<B>Ask your children</B> what they want to learn more about today. Then do that again tomorrow and each day that follows.<BR><BR>
<B>Here are some activities and ideas</B> to help them start thinking about and developing a <B>“love of learning”</B>.<BR><BR>
<B>When doing the activities</B> ask them:<BR><BR>
<B>1. Which</B> is their favorite?<BR>
<B>2. Why</B> is it their favorite?<BR>
<B>3. What</B> more would they like to do or learn about?<BR>
<B>4. How</B> could they expand upon the experiments or activities?<BR><BR>
<B>Here are Activity Ideas for a Month of Learning or YEARS of Learning!</B><BR>
<B>Remember to discuss each activity and ideas inspired by these:</B><BR><BR>
<B>1. Build</B> with Legos, K’Nex, Magnetic Tiles, Marble Runs (math, technology) <BR>
<B>2. Create</B> clay figures, animals, jewelry, vases, mugs (science, life skills, art) <BR>
<B>3. Draw</B> family members, your backyard, your room (social studies, math, art) <BR>
<B>4. Sketch</B> urban areas, architecture, your city’s projects (social studies, math, art) <BR>
<B>5. Paint</B> landscapes, mountains, streams, oceans, habitats (science, art) <BR>
<B>6. Paste</B> shapes, tissue paper, stickers to create collages of landmarks (geography, social studies, art) <BR>
<B>7. Design</B> new games, board games, video games, fun games (technology, science, math) <BR>
<B>8. Bake</B> cupcakes, pastries, experiment with new food creations (math, science, life skills) <BR>
<B>9. Experiment</B> with creating slime, volcanoes, tornados, kitchen science reactions (science, math) <BR>
<B>10. Glue</B> junk items, gears, cogs, nuts, bolts to create sculptures (technology, science, art) <BR>
<B>11. Make</B> clocks, thermometers, rain gauges, anemometers (math, science, life skills) <BR>
<B>12. Create</B> dioramas of dinosaur eras, animal habitats, cityscapes (social studies, science) <BR>
<B>13. Draw</B> famous people, places, animals, insects, events (history, social studies, art) <BR>
<B>14. Design</B> maps of towns, cities, neighborhoods, states, regions, world (geography, art) <BR>
<B>15. Construct</B> stages for puppet shows, dramas, theater performances (math, science, art) <BR>
<B>16. Make</B> musical instruments, play music, perform concerts (music, art) <BR>
<B>17. Write/Animate</B> stories, plays, scripts, games, comic books (writing, reading, art) <BR>
<B>18. Read</B> stories aloud, using character voices or rewriting endings (reading, literature) <BR>
<B>19. Draw</B> favorite scenes from books, video games, or movies (reading, literature, art) <BR>
<B>20. Compose</B> music inspired by songs, musicals, video games (music, art) <BR>
<B>21. Create</B> scripts inspired by favorite movies, plays, video games (reading, literature) <BR>
<B>22. Program</B> code for games, apps, electronics, robotics (technology, science, math) <BR>
<B>23. Hike</B> through parks, take nature walks, photograph scenery (science, art) <BR>
<B>24. Devise</B> outdoor fun, games, scavenger hunts, forts, play items (science, math) <BR>
<B>25. Create</B> new styles of sports, basketball, baseball, football, soccer (research, reading) <BR>
<B>26. Build</B> bridges, architecture, sculptures with straws, toothpicks, marshmallows (technology, science) <BR>
<B>27. Design</B> solar system models or ecosystems, using new ideas, new materials (science, math, art) <BR>
<B>28. Construct</B> models of human body, dinosaurs, dragons, cars, planes, ships (math, science) <BR>
<B>29. Build</B> robots, transformers, solar-powered or battery-powered items, electrical circuits, snap circuits (science, math) <BR>
<B>30. Design and create</B> journals, sketchbooks, notebooks to record your experiments, activities, and paintings (math, science, life skills, art) <BR>
<B>31. Construct and create</B> boxes to display or hold your creations, by deconstructing other boxes and reconstructing new boxes to showcase your projects (math, life skills, science, art) <BR><BR>
<B>Encourage your children</B> to take these ideas and run with them! To have fun with them, to be as creative as they want, to put their own unique spin on them. The <B>“love of learning”</B> that will occur can last a lifetime!<BR><BR>
<B>Happy homeschooling!</B><BR><BR><BR>
Sherri Linsenbachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729044389931914911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1381911326564893199.post-70184946136069103532023-07-30T13:52:00.003-04:002023-07-30T14:17:39.522-04:00Homeschooling When Working Full Time<B>Many families tell us that they would love to homeschool</B> their children. But they work full-time jobs and assume it’s impossible. Fear not! <B>You can homeschool</B> your children, even when working full time. I’ll explain how.<br><br>
<B>Homeschooling is easier</B> for remote workers or work-from-home parents. But if you work away from the home, it can seem more challenging. However, <B>“Weekend Homeschool”</B> and/or <B>“Evening Homeschool” </B> is the answer.<br><br>
<B>Average daily “time requirements”</B> for “teaching” your child range from 1 hour per day (younger children) to 3 or 4 hours per day (older children or teens). Yet, the older your children are, the more capable they are of directing their own learning, with guidance and input from parents. So it’s not necessary to sit with older kids for 3 or 4 solid hours each day – unless you want to, of course.<br><br>
<B>One of the simplest ways to homeschool,</B> when working full time, is to discuss lessons or activities with your children in the mornings or evenings. Include an easy-to-follow guideline of what your children are to focus on that day. They can refer to the guideline throughout the day.<br><br>
<B>On weekends,</B> you can become involved in more hands-on learning activities, science experiments, family field trips, and reviewing any lessons that were challenging or needing extra attention. Allow plenty of freedom and flexibility for engaging in the lessons, topics, and activities during the week.<br><br>
<B>Other options include</B> the possibility of working 1 or 2 days at home and doing more homeschool projects on those days. Or perhaps you can take your child to work with you a couple days a week. Or have your child’s caretaker oversee the homeschool lessons during the week, then make the most of fun learning activities on weekends.<br><br>
<B>Always discuss the learning activities or lessons</B> at the end of each day. One of the best times for this is during your evening meal or as you take walks together at the end of the day. Discuss the favorite parts of the day’s activities and what your children learned that day. Ask them what they might have had difficulties with. And ask them what they’d like to learn about tomorrow.<br><br>
<B>Jot down the activities and lessons</B> in your logbook or on our log sheets (download here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_3pQuwm94k-Ihs2YGGpjOO3KRQB1csaN/view?ths=true" target="_blank"><b><u>Weekly Planner Log link</u></b></a>.)<br><br>
<B>To start homeschooling this week,</B> take a field trip to your library. Let your children pick out any books that interest them. They’ll be transported to new worlds and learn something new from each book.<br><br>
<B>Here’s recent books</B> that parents and kids have found interesting and educational:<br><br>
<B>Younger kids:</B><br><br>
<B>1. Backyard Build</B> by Jonathan Litton<br>
<B>2. Book of Questions</B> by Pablo Neruda<br>
<B>3. Copycat</B> by Christy Hale<br>
<B>4. Emile and the Field</B> by Kevin Young<br>
<B>5. Frances in the Country</B> by Liz Garton Scanlon<br><br>
<B>Older kids:</B><br><br>
<B>1. Artificial Intelligence</B> by Dinah Williams<br>
<B>2. Northwind</B> by Gary Paulsen<br>
<B>3. Rover's Story</B> by Jasmine Warga<br>
<B>4. Unstoppable Us</B> by Yuval Noah Harari<br>
<B>5. Wisdom of Trees</B> by Lita Judge<br><br>
<B>To start homeschooling today, </B> see our previous blog posts, such as:<br><br>
<B>* Hands-On Math Activities blog post</B><br>
<B>* 500+ Science Activities post</B><br>
<B>* Social Studies, History, and Geography</B><br>
<B>* Weekly Homeschool Activities posts</B><br>
<B>* Click the Labels, below, or the Labels on previous posts.</B><br><br>
<B>Visit us weekly for new</B> learning activities and ideas!<br><br>
<B>Sign up for our Weekly Newsletter</B>, too! See the Subscribe space at right.<br><br>
<B>Happy Homeschooling!</B><br><br><br>
Sherri Linsenbachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729044389931914911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1381911326564893199.post-78715343349551323882023-07-24T13:47:00.000-04:002023-07-24T13:47:16.900-04:00School and Summertime Lessons<b>As stores and the media start promoting “back to school” sales</b>, remember that we’re still only <b>one month into summer</b>! The first day of summer was June 21. The <b>last day of summer</b> is still <b>two months away</b>! Summer doesn’t officially end until September 23. That’s 8 more weeks of lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer!<br><br>
<b>Yes, many traditional schools begin their school year</b> in the middle of summer, or the last week of July, or the first week or two of August. <b>But that doesn’t mean your family has to follow suit</b>. After all, one of the top reasons families enjoy homeschooling is the <b>freedom and flexibility</b> that goes along with it.<br><br>
<b>So let your children enjoy these precious summer days a bit longer</b>. Disregard the back-to-school hype. Focus on having fun and making great memories with your family. <b>Allow your children to be carefree and happy</b> as they savor these super summer days.<br><br>
<b>Each summer that passes means that your children grow closer</b> and closer to adulthood. Then these carefree, childhood days of summer will become a thing of the past.<br><br>
<b>Help your children appreciate and treasure these days</b>. That’s one of the <b>best lessons</b> you can teach them! <b>Create keepsakes, craft mementos, compile photo memories</b> of this summer, then make a <b>“treasure box”</b> to keep them in.<br><br>
<b>Every day provides an opportunity for learning</b>, regardless of the season and regardless of the setting. Learning doesn’t require a specific school room, school day, or school year. <b>Learning takes place in the mind – not</b> in a specific building nor a specific timeframe.<br><br>
<b>We’ll begin providing learning ideas here</b> again soon. And you can begin <b>planning for your learning adventures</b>, too. <b>Sign up for our newsletter</b> to receive learning activities and lesson ideas throughout the coming year. (See the subscribe space in the right-hand column.)<br><br>
<b>Meanwhile, enjoy the summer</b>!<br><br>
<b>Happy homeschooling!</b><br><br><br>
Sherri Linsenbachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729044389931914911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1381911326564893199.post-12578077642815691232023-02-03T14:39:00.001-05:002023-02-03T14:39:36.144-05:00Fun February Learning Ideas<b>February is short, but mighty!</b> It’s known for Groundhog Day, Valentine’s Day, Heart Health Awareness, Black History Month, and much more.<br><br>
<b>Here's dozens of learning ideas</b>, including Science, Math, History, Reading, Creative Writing, Language Arts, Life Skills, Social Skills, Arts and Crafts, Physical Activities, Nutrition, and more!<br><br>
<b>See the Following Ideas or the February National Day Calendar here:</b> <a href="https://nationaldaycalendar.com/february" target="_blank">https://nationaldaycalendar.com/february</a>. Then click on any day of the month for fun learning ideas, or browse the following examples.<br><br>
<b>Some great examples:</b><br><br>
<b>February 4 is National Play Outside Day.</b> Play your favorite games together outdoors, or see more great outdoor games here: <a href="https://www.parents.com/fun/activities/outdoor/great-outdoor-games" target="_blank">https://www.parents.com/fun/activities/outdoor/great-outdoor-games</a>. It’s also National Homemade Soup Day, so after a fun day playing outside, make a big pot of homemade soup together!<br><br>
<b>February 7 is National Periodic Table Day.</b> Research the history of the periodic table and the purpose of the table: <a href="https://mocomi.com/periodic-table" target="_blank">https://mocomi.com/periodic-table</a>. Then spend an afternoon doing fun science experiments together.<br><br>
<b>February 9 is National Pizza Day.</b> Make homemade pizza AND make homemade fractions! Use paper plates, poster board, cardboard, or construction paper to make different types of “pizza” and “toppings.” Then cut the “pizzas” in half, quarters, thirds, sixths, etc., and practice fraction math while enjoying a real, home-cooked pizza.
<br><br>
<b>February 11 is National Inventor’s Day.</b> What new things can your kids invent on this day or this month? Read <i>Inventors Who Changed the World</i>, or <i>Accidental Inventions That Changed Our World</i>, or <i>Amazing Inventions That Changed the World</i>, or many other similar books available at your library.<br><br>
<b>February 14 is Valentine’s Day.</b> Research the history of Valentine’s Day and Saint Valentine. Then have fun seeing who can make the most unusual valentine, the prettiest one, the tiniest one, the most colorful one, the most intricate one! And write poems to go along with the homemade valentines!<br><br>
<b>February 17 is National Random Acts of Kindness Day.</b> Discuss what this means, then brainstorm ways of performing acts of kindness for each other, for other family members, friends, acquaintances, and people you meet. How can this change the way you feel? And how might this affect people if you performed acts of kindness every day?<br><br>
<b>February 20 is Presidents Day.</b> How many presidents have we had? Who was the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth presidents? Who is the current president? See if you can memorize them all! Were any of the presidents from your state?<br><br>
<b>February 21 is Mardi Gras,</b> which is French for Fat Tuesday or Shrove Tuesday. Research the origins of this day and how people choose to celebrate it. Have fun making Mardi Gras crafts! See ideas here: <a href="https://funfamilycrafts.com/category/seasonal-holiday/holidays/mardi-gras" target="_blank">https://funfamilycrafts.com/category/seasonal-holiday/holidays/mardi-gras</a>.<br><br>
<b>February 26 is Tell a Fairy Tale Day.</b> Read some popular fairy tales here: <a href="https://www.storyberries.com/category/fairy-tales/famous-fairy-tales" target="_blank">https://www.storyberries.com/category/fairy-tales/famous-fairy-tales</a>. Then have kids write or tell fairy tales, using their own imagination.<br><br>
<b>Black History Month Activities.</b> Try these Black History Month crafts <a href="https://www.creativechild.com/articles/view/29-days-of-crafts-for-black-history-month" target="_blank">https://www.creativechild.com/articles/view/29-days-of-crafts-for-black-history-month</a>, or view many others online. For Black History books, see <a href="https://www.weareteachers.com/black-history-books-for-kids" target="_blank">https://www.weareteachers.com/black-history-books-for-kids</a>.<br><br>
<b>Love Your Heart.</b> Brisk walking is one of the best activities to keep your heart strong. Count your daily steps to see if you're getting a minimum of 10,000 steps a day. Together, walk around the block, along park trails, jog or dance through your house, and tally up your steps. Make a chart to track who is getting the most steps daily.<br><br>
<b>These are just a few fun ideas</b> from the month of February. These cover topics such as Science, Math, History, Reading, Creative Writing, Language Arts, Life Skills, Social Skills, Arts and Crafts, Physical Activities, Nutrition, and more! See the National Day Calendar for more ideas this month:</b> <a href="https://nationaldaycalendar.com/february" target="_blank">https://nationaldaycalendar.com/february</a>!<br><br>
<b>Happy homeschooling!</b><br><br>
Sherri Linsenbachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729044389931914911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1381911326564893199.post-53215394476280305692023-01-27T12:40:00.000-05:002023-01-27T12:40:57.308-05:00Second Semester Homeschooling, Unschooling, and Learning More!<b>Unschooling, Worksheets, Unit Studies, Lesson Plans, Hands-On Activities?</b> Continue reading, plus see links below!<br><br>
<b>In traditional schools, the second semester usually begins in January.</b> That means the kids are now about halfway through the year.<br><br>
<b>Homeschoolers can follow</b> a traditional school instructional calendar. Or you can follow your own educational plans and schedules. And, of course, you can add other topics, as well, such as Art, Music, Foreign Languages, Life Skills, etc.<br><br>
<b>The way you homeschool is totally up to you and your family,</b> depending on what works best for your educational goals, your family values, your child’s best learning styles, and most workable homeschool schedule.<br><br>
<b>Now is a great time to reflect</b> on the first semester of your homeschool, consider what went well, what worked best, and what could perhaps work better for the next few months of homeschooling.<br><br>
<b>If you’d like to focus on individual Lessons covering Math, Science, Language Arts, and Social Studies,</b> we’ll include some links below to help you out.<br><br>
<b>If, alternatively, you’d like to try theme studies, unit studies, or unschooling activities,</b> we’ll include some links for those.<br><br>
<b>Remember, also, to revisit</b> our previous posts of <b>Weekly Homeschool Lessons and Learning Activities,</b> posted in August; <b>500+ Science Experiments and Hands-On Math Activities,</b> also posted in August; <b>Unschooling Activities and Reading Activities,</b> posted in September; <b>Language Arts, Social Studies, Math, and Science Activities,</b> posted in October; <b>Crafting History,</b> posted in November; and <b>Winter Learning Activities,</b> posted in December, along with many other educational ideas over the past months.<br><br>
<b>*** Here are some Links to Lessons covering Math, Science, Language Arts, and Social Studies:</b><br><br>
1. Math Solutions, Grades K-8:<br><br>
<a href="https://mathsolutions.com/classroom-lessons" target="_blank">https://mathsolutions.com/classroom-lessons</a> <br><br>
2. Math Goodies, Elementary to Pre-Algebra:<br><br>
<a href="https://www.mathgoodies.com/lessons" target="_blank">https://www.mathgoodies.com/lessons</a> <br><br>
3. Math Worksheets:<br><br>
<a href="https://www.math-drills.com" target="_blank">https://www.math-drills.com</a> <br><br>
4. Homeschool Math Worksheets:<br><br>
<a href="https://www.homeschoolmath.net/worksheets" target="_blank">https://www.homeschoolmath.net/worksheets</a> <br><br>
5. 80 Science Activities:<br><br>
<a href="https://elementalscience.com/blogs/news/80-free-science-activities" target="_blank">https://elementalscience.com/blogs/news/80-free-science-activities</a> <br><br>
6. Science Worksheets:<br><br>
<a href="https://www.easyteacherworksheets.com/science.html" target="_blank">https://www.easyteacherworksheets.com/science.html</a> <br><br>
7. Language Arts Lesson Plans:<br><br>
<a href="https://www.educationworld.com/a_lesson/archives/lang.shtml" target="_blank">https://www.educationworld.com/a_lesson/archives/lang.shtml</a> <br><br>
8. Language Arts Worksheets:<br><br>
<a href="https://www.easyteacherworksheets.com/languagearts.html" target="_blank">https://www.easyteacherworksheets.com/languagearts.html</a> <br><br>
9. Social Studies Activities:<br><br>
<a href="https://sharemylesson.com/subject/social-studies" target="_blank">https://sharemylesson.com/subject/social-studies</a> <br><br>
10. Social Studies Worksheets:<br><br>
<a href="https://www.education.com/worksheets/social-studies" target="_blank">https://www.education.com/worksheets/social-studies</a> <br><br>
<b>*** Here are some Links to Theme Studies, Unit Studies, or Unschooling Activities:</b><br><br>
1. BookShark Unit Studies:<br><br>
<a href="https://www.bookshark.com/freebies" target="_blank">https://www.bookshark.com/freebies</a> <br><br>
2. Discover Unit Studies:<br><br>
<a href="https://discoverunitstudies.com" target="_blank">https://discoverunitstudies.com</a> <br><br>
3. Hess UnAcademy Unit Studies:<br><br>
<a href="https://hessunacademy.com/unit-studies" target="_blank">https://hessunacademy.com/unit-studies</a> <br><br>
4. Crafty Classroom Unit Studies:<br><br>
<a href="https://thecraftyclassroom.com/free-unit-studies" target="_blank">https://thecraftyclassroom.com/free-unit-studies</a> <br><br>
5. Unschooling and Hands-On Ideas:<br><br>
<a href="https://www.weedemandreap.com/learn-subjects-unschooling" target="_blank">https://www.weedemandreap.com/learn-subjects-unschooling</a> <br><br>
6. Unschooling Ideas for Older Kids:<br><br>
<a href="https://www.weirdunsocializedhomeschoolers.com/100-hands-on-activities-for-middle-school-and-high-school" target="_blank">https://www.weirdunsocializedhomeschoolers.com/100-hands-on-activities-for-middle-school-and-high-school</a> <br><br>
7. More Unschooling Ideas:<br><br>
<a href="https://zenhabits.net/unschool" target="_blank">https://zenhabits.net/unschool</a> <br><br>
<br><br>
<b>Happy homeschooling!</b><br><br>
Sherri Linsenbachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729044389931914911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1381911326564893199.post-87951784667626010022023-01-03T15:11:00.002-05:002023-01-03T15:11:45.985-05:00New Year, New Ideas, New Interests, New Learning!<b>It’s a New Year and Time for New Ideas, New Interests, New Learning!</b> You can try to learn something new every day, but if that’s not always feasible, definitely try to learn at least <b>52 new things</b> this year. That’s 1 new thing you can learn each week of the year.<br><br>
<b>Here’s a few to get you started:</b><br><br>
<b>1. “Imagination is more important than knowledge,”</b> said Albert Einstein. What do you think he meant by this? He felt that <b>imagination opened up</b> an entire world of possibilities. And he felt that imagination was a major factor in scientific research. How do you use your imagination? You can imagine a make-believe world, <b>imagine a new world</b>, imagine a new story, new song, new artwork, new adventures, new ideas. It’s all possible, because you have imagination! <b>Imagine and create</b> new things this week!<br><br>
<b>2. “Creativity is intelligence having fun,”</b> Albert Einstein said. When you are having fun creating things, you are <b>using your intelligence!</b> Create clay objects, create a wire sculpture, create twirling mobiles, create with construction kits, create a building, create a model, create art, <b>create whatever</b> interests you. And you’ll know you’re using your intelligence, <b>creating, learning, and having fun</b> this week!<br><br>
<b>3. “The mind is not a vessel to be filled but a fire to be kindled,”</b> said Plutarch, a Greek philosopher. By kindling a fire or sparking an idea in your mind, you are <b>filled with excitement,</b> curiosity, new interests, and new learning! When an idea excites or interests you, <b>learning naturally occurs.</b> This is because you are excited about it and want to learn all you can about it. <b>Be excited</b> and curious, and learn more this week!<br><br>
<b>4. “Curiosity is the wick in the candle of learning,”</b> observed writer William Arthur Ward. Imagine this: Without a wick, a candle can’t burn very well. <b>Without curiosity,</b> one can’t learn very well. Find ways to <b>spark your own curiosity</b> this week by asking questions like: “What if? How? Why? Who? When? Where?” Regardless of the subjects you might be studying this week, be curious about them. Ask more questions! Go further! <b>Be curious!</b> Learn more!<br><br>
<b>5. “Ask questions and you will gain new knowledge,”</b> many have observed. If the tower you built collapsed, <b>ask why and how</b> you can keep it from collapsing the next time. If the clay sculpture you created didn’t turn out as expected, <b>ask how</b> you might improve it next time. If the story you wrote isn’t as exciting as you’d hoped, <b>ask what</b> characters or situations could liven it up. If this week’s history lesson, or math lesson, or science experiment is confusing or dull, <b>ask what</b> activities could make the lessons more exciting, more real, more fun, more clear. When you ask yourself, or others, you <b>will</b> find answers, every day and every week!<br><br>
<b>Explore! Experiment! Imagine! Create! Read! Write! Play! Build! Ask! Seek! Research! Be Curious! Be Innovative! Be Adventurous!</b><br><br>
<b>Resolve to make this new year</b> an exciting one filled with <b>fun, imaginative, creative learning!</b><br><br>
<b>Happy homeschooling</b> every week of this new year!<br><br>
Sherri Linsenbachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729044389931914911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1381911326564893199.post-71721592585585495222022-12-14T18:47:00.003-05:002022-12-14T18:57:17.625-05:00Christmas Gifts and Winter Learning<b>Christmas gift giveaway:</b> We’re giving away 2 books this week: <i>Science Experiments</i> (for ages 5 to 10) and <i>Science Experiments</i> (for ages 9 and up). To enter, see details at the end of this blog post.<br><br>
<b>In addition,</b> we’re focusing on things we can all learn as the Winter season settles in. Regardless of our age, we can all learn things from Christmas, the holidays, and winter, in general. <br><br>
<b>Here is a list of learning ideas</b> for Christmas and the coming winter months: <br><br>
<b>1. The Christmas Story, of course.</b> (The biblical one, not the BB gun one.) Regardless of faith or personal beliefs, it’s helpful to have an understanding of what the biblical story of Christmas is all about. Even Linus telling Charlie Brown what Christmas is all about, in <i>A Charlie Brown Christmas</i>, is poignant, no matter our age or beliefs. <br><br>
<b>2. And since we mentioned it,</b> we can learn empathy and understanding through watching <i>A Charlie Brown Christmas</i>. As in most of Charles Schulz’s creations, we see children forgetting to be kind and compassionate, being temporarily too self-centered and unseeing of the “bigger picture,” until the light suddenly dawns. Witnessing this transformation in Charlie Brown’s friends helps children realize that they, too, can view things differently and in a more positive and perceptive way. <br><br>
<b>3. And also, since we mentioned it,</b> we can learn the importance of family, tradition, and nostalgia in watching <i>The Christmas Story</i> – yes, the BB-gun one. Who has not been disappointed on Christmas, by not finding that “special gift” under the tree, or having the “day spoiled” by a disaster, such as a ruined Christmas dinner? But then having parents who understand those feelings, who put things into perspective or create ways to overcome disappointments, making those Christmases some of the most memorable of childhood.<br><br>
<b>4. Moving on from Christmas stories and shows</b> – of which there are many wonderful ones, too many to mention in this blog post, but some which I know are special to you and your family – we encourage you to take a look at your own Christmas stories and traditions, and all you can learn from them. Write down your traditions and special events in a journal, then pass them on to your children and grandchildren. <br><br>
<b>5. Hanging Christmas lights</b> from a tangled ball of last-year’s interwoven wires is a lesson in patience and perseverance! Doing this year after year either reinforces those qualities of patience and perseverance, or leads to developing an innovative way of storing those twisted strands of light. Maybe your child will be the inventor who creates a better way of organizing and storing those strands for next year!<br><br>
<b>6. Then there’s the electrical aspect</b> of actually getting the lights to glow. There’s burnt-out bulbs, blown fuses, running extension cords to outlets, setting timers, synchronizing the motion lights to music, and determining the number of lights and strands required for each display! Plus understanding volts and wattages, and the meaning of the UL certification label on the lights. Christmas lights can lead to a thorough study of Electricity and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics).<br><br>
<b>7. Speaking of Mathematics,</b> there’s baking and more baking to be done! Cookies, candies, a Yule Log cake, and Gingerbread houses to make! Not only does this require mathematical measurements of ingredients, but also critical thinking skills for constructing the special goodies. Plus, creative thinking and logical thinking skills come into play, when certain ingredients aren’t on-hand and substitutions have to be made, or the final result isn’t exactly as planned and last-minute, inventive tweaks are needed. All are learning opportunities, while still having fun!<br><br>
<b>8. Speaking of fun and creativity,</b> there’s the wrapping of the gifts. Give younger kids boxes and scrap paper, ribbons, and bows (or, as the Grinch said, “ribbons, tags, packages, boxes, or bags”). Let them practice wrapping the boxes or perhaps wrap special items they’d like to share with others. Older kids can wrap thoughtful, hand-made items they’ve made for others.<br><br>
<b>9. And speaking of hand-made items,</b> crafts made by family members to give to loved ones are always heart-warming and appreciated. And, as the Grinch also said, as he watched the Whos down in Whoville, clasping hands and singing on Christmas morning: “Maybe Christmas doesn’t come from a store. Maybe Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more.” With hand-crafted gifts from the heart, Christmas doesn’t have to come from a store. Children can learn, first-hand, that it means a little bit more. <br><br>
<b>10. Before we move on from Christmas</b> – and all the potential for learning it provides – remember to write “Thank You” notes to everyone after Christmas. This “lesson” includes Cursive Writing Practice, Creative Thinking, Creative Writing, Envelope Addressing, Stamp Affixing, perhaps Post Office Visits, and most importantly, emphasizes Thoughtfulness, Respectfulness, Expressions of Gratitude, and overall Good Etiquette. Thank-you cards can be handmade, too, or created from recycled Christmas cards. <br><br>
<b>11. Winter is here!</b> It arrives between December 21 and December 22 every year, in the Northern Hemisphere. It is the Winter Solstice. It is the shortest day of the year. It is the time of year when the Earth’s axis is tilted the farthest away from the sun. <br><br>
<b>12. Take time to observe this</b> – to really, really observe it. On December 21 or 22, look at how low the Sun seems to hang in the sky, closer to the horizon line, almost directly in your line of sight. Notice the shadows of your house, building, or trees, and notice how far away the shadows stretch in winter, compared to where the shadows fall in summer. <br><br>
<b>13. Days are short!</b> Or at least the hours of daylight are shorter. Look at your local sunrise and sunset times, and compare them to summertime sunrise and sunset times. Here, our sunrise is at 8:03 a.m. and sunset is at 5:23 p.m. on December 22. But in the summer, on the longest day of the year, June 21, our sunrise is at 6:16 a.m. and sunset is at 9:16 p.m. How many daytime hours do YOU have on your shortest day of the year in December? Compare that to the daytime hours available on your longest day of the year in June. <br><br>
<b>14. Cold winter wonderlands!</b> Could the length of the day be part of the reason why it’s colder in the winter (less direct sunshine when farthest from the equator) and why it’s hotter in the summer (more intense sunshine for longer periods of time when closer to the equator)? Track the temperatures in a Weather Log over the coming weeks and months, and determine why some days are colder than others. <br><br>
<b>15. Precipitation!</b> What changes warm rains to winter snows? When watching the snow falling one winter day, my son said, “Snow is actually white rain!” Perceptive, to a point. Scientifically, snowflakes form when ice crystals stick together, because of the colder temperatures in the clouds. The crystal formations then become heavy enough to fall to the ground – even though they often appear to be floating like feathers! <br><br>
<b>16. Make Your Own Snowflakes!</b> Here’s a couple different ways. Click here: <a href="https://www.marthastewart.com/269342/crystal-snowflake" target="_blank">https://www.marthastewart.com/269342/crystal-snowflake</a>, or Click here: <a href="https://gosciencekids.com/salt-crystal-snowflakes" target="_blank">https://gosciencekids.com/salt-crystal-snowflakes</a>. <br><br>
<b>17. Make a Snow Globe,</b> as simple or as elaborate as you’d like! Here’s a couple ideas: Click here: <a href="https://www.marthastewart.com/276346/how-to-make-a-snow-globe" target="_blank">https://www.marthastewart.com/276346/how-to-make-a-snow-globe</a>, or Click here: <a href="https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/home-lifestyle/crafts-diy/g41900770/diy-snow-globes" target="_blank">https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/home-lifestyle/crafts-diy/g41900770/diy-snow-globes</a>. <br><br>
<b>18. Animals in the snow!</b> After your first, nice snowfall, track animal prints in the snow. See how many different ones you can find. The first ones you see will probably be delicate indentations from birds’ feet on top of the snow. Then the paw prints of cats or dogs. And tracks from squirrels, rabbits, and deer. Follow their paths to see what areas they visited, and try to determine what drew them to those areas. To identify the prints, do a search online for “animal tracks in the snow.”<br><br>
<b>19. Animals under the snow!</b> When walking on top of the snow, it’s strange to think of animals living underneath it. But chipmunks, groundhogs, mice, voles, and lizards live under the snow or in tunnels in the ground, where it’s surprisingly warmer. Frogs, fish, and turtles may stay on the bottom of ponds, where they burrow into the mud. Learn more about animal behavior and their winter homes, online or in library books.<br><br>
<b>20. Animals away from the snow!</b> Many animals – like human “snowbirds” – migrate south or to warmer climates for the winter. You might miss your hummingbirds during the winter, but they are living it up in the southern United States, Mexico, or Central America. Do an image search for bird or hummingbird migration paths to see charts of where your favorite backyard birds might be living during the winter. Keep track of when they return in the spring, then when they depart again next winter. Keep this information in your Nature Journal, where you can refer to it again and again. Remember to feed the birds that do stick around your home for the winter!<br><br>
<b>The above activities can be interesting and educational for all ages</b> over the winter. Plus, following where the activities lead is always entertaining, as well. Allowing children time and freedom to explore these topics can open their eyes to so much in our world that is amazing, breathtaking, and awe-inspiring – a feeling that can last a lifetime.<br><br>
<b>And, now, to enter the Christmas gift giveaway,</b> just send an email to us at: <a href="mailto:EVHomeschooling@gmail.com">EVHomeschooling@gmail.com</a>. We’ll draw 2 winners in the coming week. One book for younger kids (ages 5 to 10) entitled <i>100+ Awesome Science Experiments for Kids</i>. And one book for older kids (ages 9 and up) entitled <i>101 Great Science Experiments for Kids</i>.<br><br>
<b>Happy Homeschooling and Happy Holidays!</b><br><br>
Sherri Linsenbachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729044389931914911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1381911326564893199.post-5737816179099199372022-11-17T15:47:00.004-05:002022-11-17T15:47:54.421-05:00Importance of History, Geography, and Social Studies<b>A Place in Your World</b><br><br>
<b>To know where you’re going, you need to know where you’ve been.</b> Children
need a <b>sense of their place</b> in the world, starting with their place in the
family, their home in the neighborhood, their community’s businesses and
stores, the boundaries of their town and their state, and where the neighboring
towns, cities, states, and countries lie.<br><br>
<b>Children will be interested in knowing who started their town and why.</b> Who
were the earliest pioneers in their state, and when did their state establish
its statehood? Who were the statesmen who worked hard to create the great
state that children know as their home state? Who helped establish the
United States of America, and where did America’s forefathers come from? Why did the earliest explorers to America leave their countries to travel to a
land that was foreign to them? What was life like in the countries that those
explorers left? How did life change for them?<br><br>
<b>As you can see,</b> geography, history, and different cultures and lifestyles
all revolve around one another. And they all help to establish <b>a child’s place
in this world.</b><br><br>
<b>Start with the simplest maps of your child’s neighborhood</b>
and broaden into state maps, world maps, and globes to help your child see
where he is in this world. You can use storytelling as a way to describe not
only his history and his family’s history, but also the history of his town, state,
country, and world.<br><br>
<b>Mapmaking Fun</b><br><br>
<b>Children can draw maps,</b> as large as they want, of their backyard, play
areas, or the parks they visit. They can label the different spaces and use
symbols for trees and paths, playground equipment, picnic tables, buildings,
and playhouses. Then mark the routes they often follow, such as the path between the house and play areas, or the trek between the playground and parking lot at your local park.<br><br>
<b>Broaden their mapmaking skills</b> as your children’s sense of community
grows. Have them draw a map of your neighborhood or town, showing your
house, the park, the nearby grocery store, gasoline station, the bank, post office,
hospital, library, churches, schools, fire and police stations, and other pertinent
locations.<br><br>
<b>Encourage children to decorate and label the maps</b> in creative and colorful
ways, then display them on a bulletin board. As they learn about new or different
areas in their towns, have them add those locations to their maps.<br><br>
<b>Use nicely illustrated books</b> about your state to help children learn all it
has to offer. Create a basic map of your state and have children mark their
town or community on the map. Next, have them locate and label the city
that is nearest to their home. Then locate and label the capital of your state.<br><br>
<b>Now, using interesting books on your state,</b> allow children to select
points of interest or places they would like to visit someday, such as a state
park, a cave, lake, waterfall, ocean, amusement park, ski resort, raceway,
zoo, aquarium, museum, pioneer village, covered bridge, tower, or skyscraper.
Have children locate and label those places on your state map. Visit those areas of interest as time and circumstances allow.<br><br>
<b>When children explore the places</b> they have learned about, their world becomes much
more real to them. Do the same with maps of the United States and the world.
Although you may not be able to visit all the areas you would like, beautiful
travel videos or DVDs can bring distant places right into your home!<br><br>
<b>Living History</b><br><br>
<b>History need not be dull or boring.</b> History
was, and is, made by living people, real people, people of the past, and
people we may know today. Choose a famous person from the past and
be that person. Research him or her; learn what that person was like, what
he wore or how she spoke, where the person lived, what life was like when
that person was alive, and how the culture or lifestyles differed from others.<br><br>
<b>Then create that person’s style</b> of clothing from paper or cloth. For instance, if it’s
Abraham Lincoln you’re emulating, replicate his stovepipe hat, black jacket,
pants, and famous beard. If it’s Sacagawea, make a duplicate of her costume and
papoose. Find pictures of famous people by using the Google Images search
engine or checking illustrated library books. Then BE that person for a day or a week. Walk in their shoes - or moccasins - for a while!<br><br>
<b>Historical Biographies</b><br><br>
<b>What are some good biographies to read on historical figures?</b>
The Who Was Biographies, DK Biographies, and Sterling Biographies
cover a wide range of historical figures, such as Davy Crockett, Joan of
Arc, Frederick Douglass, Marie Curie, Henry Ford, Albert Einstein,
Amelia Earhart, Neil Armstrong, Steve Jobs, and more. Use biographies
to learn more about each era’s events and lifestyles.<br><br>
<b>Crafting History</b><br><br>
<b>Bring out the craft box, construction paper, craft sticks,</b> glue, markers,
pipe cleaners, and begin crafting history. Help children construct medieval
castles, Viking boats, the Mayflower, teepees and longhouses, western frontier
buildings and wagons, or the White House.<br><br>
<b>Use illustrated library books</b> on castles, boats, the Wild West, or the White House as guides for replicating the objects and for learning more about each creation.<br><br>
<b>Make pipe-cleaner people</b> to inhabit the places your children create,
then let the stories from long ago unfold. Hands-on activities always serve
to raise a child’s level of awareness and help to embed the learning experiences
in his mind for years to come. Whenever possible, <b>incorporate hands-on
activities</b> into your daily lessons <b>to help bring history alive</b> for your children!<br><br>
Happy homeschooling!<br><br>
Sherri Linsenbachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729044389931914911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1381911326564893199.post-87008266851047644922022-11-04T16:04:00.010-04:002022-11-04T16:23:49.790-04:00Fun Language Arts Activities<b>When learning is fun, children will naturally learn more.</b> But
even better, they will remember and retain more of what
they learn. Here you’ll see how to thread fun through Language Arts. More subjects, topics, and activities will be added in the next few days.<br><br>
<b>Language Arts Activities</b><br><br>
<b>Language arts encompasses English, reading, writing, spelling, vocabulary</b>,
grammar, composition, literature, drama, and poetry, listening and speaking,
and related written or oral activities. Ideas and activities follow.<br><br>
<b>Reading Activities:</b><br><br>
<b>Reading need not be dull!</b> Famous or popular movies are made from
books and stories! If your children are not especially interested in reading,
try reading movie scripts together, such as Disney movie scripts or family
movie scripts featured on <a href="https://www.SimplyScripts.com" target="_blank">www.SimplyScripts.com</a>. Use the scripts to act out
the movie, and compare scripts to the book version of the story. Try writing your own scripts, too!<br><br>
<b>Turn your library visits into story scavenger hunts!</b> Have children find books that will take them to another land, another planet, or an imaginary world. See if they can locate books by particular authors or stories that focus on a particular time period.<br><br>
<b>Make it fun!</b> If your children are having no luck finding such books, see if you can help. Pull out a few selections from the shelves and point out the colorful pictures or delightful illustrations. Then wonder aloud what might be occurring in the story. Begin reading a few of the pages aloud, and soon their interest will be piqued.<br><br>
<b>Book suggestions and Reading Lists</b> are available at <a href="https://www.KidsReadingCircle.com" target="_blank">www.KidsReadingCircle.com</a> and <a href="https://www.rd.com/list/the-best-childrens-books-ever-written" target="_blank">https://www.rd.com/list/the-best-childrens-books-ever-written</a>. The
RD (Reader’s Digest) site lists “100 Best Children’s Books of All Time.”<br><br>
<b>Breathe life into the stories you read together.</b> In addition to discussing
the characters and events in the stories, create your own plays or dramatic
performances based upon the stories. Or simply take turns reading the lines
of the different characters in the voices that seem to reflect their personalities.
This often results in fits of giggles and reading fun!<br><br>
<b>Read to them, share written stories with them,</b> read newspapers aloud,
and read information aloud, even if it’s the cereal boxes at breakfast or a sign in the dentist’s waiting room. The key to encouraging children to read
is to read, read, read!<br><br>
<b>Parts of Speech:</b><br><br>
<b>Use illustrated books or even comic books</b> to help children become
more familiar with nouns, verbs, adjectives, adverbs, pronouns, prepositions,
conjunctions, and interjections. After reading the stories, pick out the
different parts of speech together. When done on a regular basis with stories
children enjoy, you’ll be surprised how quickly they’ll learn the different
parts of speech and how long they’ll retain this knowledge.<br><br>
<b>Here’s a fun activity many children enjoy.</b> They can assign colors to the
different parts of speech. Then, with colored construction paper at their fingertips,
they can jot down the nouns they find in a story on red construction
paper, for instance. They cut up those nouns on red paper and drop
them into a jar or box. Then they jot down the verbs from the story on blue
construction paper, cut up the verbs, and drop them into the jar or box.
They can continue with yellow adjectives, green adverbs, etc., cutting up the
words and dropping them into the container.<br><br>
<b>Later, they can shake up the container</b> and select a red noun, blue verb,
yellow adjective, green adverb, and create their own fun or silly sentences.
Over time, as they continue to add colorful words to the container, they’ll
have quite a collection of nouns, verbs, adjectives, adverbs, all color coded
and clicking in their mind. And they’ll become much better at spotting the
different parts of speech in sentences as they read.<br><br>
<b>Writing Activities:</b><br><br>
<b>Brainstorm new story prompts or creative writing ideas</b> together each
day. For instance: What if time ran backward? What if you could read everyone
else’s thoughts? What if you had webbed feet and a beak? Describe
what your day would be like, or write a story based on your "What if" ideas.
Keep a daily writing journal full of your creative thoughts and stories.<br><br>
<b>As a family, think about a story you’d like to write.</b> Decide on the characters,
setting, plot, and storyline. Then have each family member write his or
her own version of the story. Read your stories aloud and see how similar or
different the stories are.<br><br>
<b>In today’s digital world of texting, instant messaging, and e-mail,</b> letter-
writing is still an important skill. Children can hone those skills by writing
letters on a regular basis to friends and families. Remind them to write
thank-you notes for gifts or favors, as well. They can also write letters and
thank-you notes to famous folks. What might they write to Dr. Seuss? What
would they thank him for? What would they write to Pocahontas, or to Lewis
and Clark, or to Mark Twain? They can write letters to other favorite authors,
actors or actresses, or local heroes.<br><br>
<b>Spelling and Vocabulary Fun:</b><br><br>
<b>Use Scrabble game tiles, magnetic letters,</b> or other types of letter tiles for
spelling practice. See who can spell the words the quickest. See who can
create the silliest word. Spell out words on each other’s backs with your fingers,
and see who is the most ticklish as kids practice their spelling skills!<br><br>
<b>Spelling lists are available</b> for Kindergarten through Grade 9 at <a href="https://www.HomeSpellingWords.com" target="_blank">www.HomeSpellingWords.com</a>.
For online spelling and vocabulary, browse spelling and word games at <a href="https://www.funbrain.com/games/spellaroo" target="_blank">www.FunBrain.com/Games/Spellaroo</a>.<br><br>
<b>More subject areas, topics, and activities</b> are coming in the next few days, so check back soon!<br><br>
<b>Remember to sign up</b> for our <b>Weekly Newsletter</b> in the <b>Subscribe</b> box on the right!<br><br>
Happy homeschooling!<br><br>
Sherri Linsenbachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729044389931914911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1381911326564893199.post-68879252522875530162022-10-27T21:17:00.004-04:002022-10-28T14:37:14.154-04:00Weekly Lessons for All Grade Levels<b>Here are some Lesson Plan Ideas for this week, including Nature Journaling and Math in Nature.</b><br><br>
<b>Language Arts</b><br><br>
<b>- Why Nature Journaling works:</b> "The long-time industrialized approach, the so-called factory model of schooling, has failed many.... Nature journaling, by helping learners become observant or immersed in, and reflective on, the world around them, sets the stage for lifelong self-learning from primary sources.... It incorporates sciences, local social and natural history, math, language, art, and physical education into one, integrated practice." (Clare Walker Leslie, from <i>Keeping a Nature Journal</i>).<br><br>
<b>- Read about the learning workshops</b> based on <i>Keeping a Nature Journal</i> by author Clare Walker Leslie.<br><br>
<b>- See examples of Nature Journaling</b> from the book entitled <i>My Nature Journal: A Personal Nature Guide for Young People</i>.<br><br>
<b>- Create a unique,</b> artistically inspired Nature Journal of your own.<br><br>
<b>- Books on Nature Journaling:</b> <i>My Nature Journal: A Personal Nature Guide for Young People</i> by Adrienne Olmstead. <i>Keeping a Nature Journal</i> by Clare Walker Leslie and Charles Roth. <i>Nature Log Kids: A Kid's Journal to Record Their Nature Experiences</i> by Deanna Brandt.<br><br>
<b>- As you write about and sketch scenes</b> from Nature, immerse yourselves in Nature activities, such as rock collecting, leaf collages, nature scavenger hunts, inspecting animal tracks, insects, plants, and pond life. After sketching and investigating, notice how children begin seeing their world differently and more clearly.<br><br>
<b>- Journal writing activities:</b> Have children regularly compose poems or songs based on some of their Nature sketches. Have them create imaginative stories revolving around topics inspired by their Nature Journals, such as a bird's travels, a rabbit's adventures, a tree's history, a flower's hopes, a seed's beginnings and future, a stream's journey, etc.<br><br>
<b>Social Studies</b><br><br>
<b>- View the beautifully illustrated Nature Journal</b> of Aleta Karstad. Discuss the ways that sketches and writings from Nature can document the history and ongoing changes of a place.<br><br>
<b>- See how to make and keep a Nature Journal,</b> according to John Muir, the inspiration for and first president of the Sierra Club. Read "What Is a Nature Journal" then "Make Your Own Journal."<br><br>
<b>- Learn more about John Muir,</b> read his biography, and read quotes by John Muir at the Sierra Club site (<a href="https://vault.sierraclub.org/john_muir_exhibit/bio/default.aspx" target="_blank">https://vault.sierraclub.org/john_muir_exhibit/bio/default.aspx</a>).<br><br>
<b>- Use your Nature Journal</b> to document the history of places near you. Sketch the way they appear today and date your sketches. Sketch the same scenes a month from now, and three months from now, remembering to date the sketches each time. Discuss the changes and how the areas might have looked 100 years ago, and 100 years from now.<br><br>
<b>- Take field trips</b> to places of interest nearby, bringing along your Nature Journal. Sketch new buildings or stores that now stand where fields or woods once stood. Research the history of those areas. Find previous photos of those locations and sketch how the area once looked. How have the changes affected your community? What are the positive and the negative effects of the changes?<br><br>
<b>- Determine if any upcoming changes,</b> developments, or new construction are being planned for your community. Sketch those areas as they appear today, before the changes or construction occur. Sketch the locations periodically, as the changes progress. You will have a graphic and descriptive history of those areas, which you can share with others in the future.<br><br>
<b>- If you sketch and document changes</b> within your community, consider donating your Nature Journal to your local library or as an exhibit for special events at your local museum.<br><br>
<b>Math</b><br><br>
<b>- Research Math in Nature.</b> Learn about Fibonacci numbers in Nature, patterns in Nature, and spirals in Nature.<br><br>
<b>- Fibonacci numbers can also be seen</b> in flower petals and seed heads. Find flowers or seed heads in nature and sketch them. Or sketch those that you find on the Internet. Label and date your sketches in your Nature Journal.<br><br>
<b>- Learn more about Fibonacci numbers</b> in flowers, shells, trees, leaf arrangements, pinecones, pineapples, and more.<br><br>
<b>- Find pinecones or view pinecones</b> on the Internet. Then sketch your pinecones, noting the spirals in the cone.<br><br>
<b>- Make bird feeders</b> from your pinecones for your backyard friends, too.<br><br>
<b>Science</b><br><br>
<b>- Create a "Backyard Wildlife Scrapbook"</b> of your own Backyard Wildlife Habitat.<br><br>
- Investigate the animals and plants, make your own "animal cards" or "plant cards", construct dioramas or poster displays of their habitats and ecosystems, and write reports or label your projects with descriptive paragraphs.<br><br>
<b>- Get more Nature Journal ideas</b> from the Smithsonian's richly illustrated "Introduction to the Nature Journal".<br><br>
<b>- Create Journal pages</b> for recording nature observations and drawing sketches of what you see each day.<br><br>
<b>- Remember to encourage your children's</b> enthusiasm, ideas, and activities, and run with them! Allow them to lead you in new and varied directions, for fun, well-rounded learning your children will remember for a lifetime!<br><br>
<b>Life Skills</b><br><br>
<b>- The process of sketching and drawing</b> helps children to learn how to focus in the "here-and-now." The end results of their artwork help children see how "effort correlates to results."<br><br>
<b>- Accomplishments and improvements</b> in drawing capabilities show children how "practice makes perfect". They will see, and better understand, that building skills does require time and effort. But they'll also see that the process is fun and inspirational, making skill-building all the more enjoyable and worthwhile.<br><br>
<b>- Sketch "everyday life" scenarios</b>, such as mom doing yard work, dad cooking, siblings doing daily chores, the family playing games together, family members caring for or playing with pets, the mail carrier delivering mail, the neighbor taking out the trash, etc.<br><br>
<b>- Read "Getting Back to Nature with Your Kids"</b> (<a href="https://www.livingmags.info/features/back-to-nature" target="_blank">https://www.livingmags.info/features/back-to-nature</a>) and "Nature and Kids" (<a href="https://www.ahaparenting.com/read/nature" target="_blank">https://www.ahaparenting.com/read/nature</a>). Then discuss ways to enjoy the outdoors, while staying safe and healthy at the same time.<br><br>
<b>- Brainstorm all the fun outdoor activities</b> you could take part in and make a list of them.<br><br>
<b>Arts and Music</b><br><br>
<b>- Create a unique</b> Nature Journal and always keep it handy.<br><br>
<b>- Try illustrations</b> from Aleta Karstad's journal.<br><br>
<b>- Listen to your favorite music</b> while sketching, drawing, or painting. See if the music helps to inspire your drawings, or does it hinder your inspiration? What types of music are most enjoyable to listen to while you're drawing?<br><br>
<b>- Try drawing birds</b> and learn about John James Audubon.<br><br>
<b>Check back often</b> for more lesson plan ideas to come!<br><br>
Happy homeschooling!<br><br>
Sherri Linsenbachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729044389931914911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1381911326564893199.post-19684458458738704182022-10-13T15:06:00.002-04:002022-10-27T21:30:43.271-04:00Learn Something New Every Day!<b>Learn something new – every day - with a book!</b><br><br>
<b>Hurricane Ian hit Southwest Florida hard at the end of September.</b> For the first 2 weeks of October, thousands of families were without electricity, drinkable water, and many without a roof over their heads. Several schools were damaged, as well, and school was postponed for two or more weeks.<br><br>
<b>In addition to all the worries parents experienced</b> during and after the hurricane, many also worried about their children falling behind.<br><br>
<b>Without power in their homes, they had no Internet access,</b> and children couldn’t even connect virtually to schools, courses, or teachers.<br><br>
<b>Without water in their homes,</b> kitchen science or hands-on experiments weren’t easily doable, nor were many crafts kids might normally do.<br><br>
<b>Simply surviving each day,</b> and performing basic everyday tasks – without water or electricity – understandably consumed much of the family’s time, energy, and emotional and mental capacity. Caring for families, pets, neighbors, and devastated communities, without basic amenities we are all accustomed to, has been a daily challenge for them.<br><br>
<b>Several families turned to libraries and books</b> as a way to keep their children learning during that time. For a while, libraries were closed, roads were closed, and gasoline was in short supply, so even trips to the library weren’t always a possibility.<br><br>
<b>That’s when many families gave their “home libraries” a closer look,</b> finding books they had forgotten about or revisiting favorite books from an “educational perspective.”<br><br>
<b>Imagine what could be learned from reading and discussing</b> the morals or lessons conveyed in books such as the following.<br><br>
<b>Then, going further and encouraging children</b> to draw or color favorite scenes from the books, to write or deliver short book reports, and to create or compose their own stories, perhaps imagined or inspired from reading favorite books such as these:<br><br>
<b>* The Little Engine That Could<br>
* The Ugly Duckling<br>
* The Runaway Bunny<br>
* Velveteen Rabbit<br>
* Where the Wild Things Are<br>
* The Giving Tree<br>
* Town Mouse and Country Mouse<br>
* Grimm’s Fairy Tales<br>
* Aesop’s Fables<br>
* Magic Treehouse<br>
* The Incredible Journey<br>
* Black Beauty<br>
* Sounder<br>
* Little House in the Big Woods<br>
* Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry<br>
* Treasure Island<br>
* Hatchet<br>
* My Side of the Mountain<br>
* Robinson Crusoe<br>
* Swiss Family Robinson<br>
* Wrinkle in Time<br>
* Phantom Tollbooth<br>
* Diary of Anne Frank<br>
* To Kill a Mockingbird</b><br><br>
<b>These are just a few of the books</b> that might be on the shelves of your home library. And they are full of wisdom, insight, and learning for any age.<br><br>
<b>Books can provide not only an escape</b> from daily challenges during a hurricane - or any other time - but also offer reading enjoyment as they provide glimpses into another time or place.<br><br>
<b>Books such as these can touch on historic events, social events, survival strategies,</b> and ways that children and families can overcome challenging circumstances or worries, no matter how big or small.<br><br>
<b>When you might grow concerned that your children are “falling behind” or “not learning enough,”</b> just reach for a book. <b>Something new is learned every time a book is opened!</b><br><br>
Happy homeschooling!<br><br>
Sherri Linsenbachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729044389931914911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1381911326564893199.post-35192068779092305742022-09-22T15:04:00.004-04:002022-09-22T15:09:34.487-04:00Fall Learning Fun with Activities, Experiments, Crafts, Worksheets!<b>Fall Learning Activities:</b><br><br>
<b>Learn about the Reason for Seasons, Why Leaves Change Colors,</b> and try the experiments on Leaf Colors and more, at these links. Then print some <b>Fall Printables</b> (below) to document your fall activities, too.<br><br>
<b>Remember to Subscribe (at right)</b> to receive weekly lessons and activities!<br><br>
<a href="https://web.extension.illinois.edu/treehouse/seasons.cfm?Slide=1" target="_blank"><b><u>1. The Reason for Seasons</u></b></a><br>
<br>
<a href="https://sciencenotes.org/why-leaves-change-color-in-the-fall-chemistry/" target="_blank"><b><u>2. Changes in Leaf Color</u></b></a><br>
<br>
<a href="https://thekidshouldseethis.com/post/leaf-color-chromatography-experiment" target="_blank"><b><u>3. Leaf Color Experiment</u></b></a><br>
<br>
<a href="https://theeducatorsspinonit.com/40-activities-for-fall/" target="_blank"><b><u>4. Fall Activities</u></b></a><br>
<br>
<a href="https://www.science-sparks.com/science-based-activity-ideas-for-autumnfall/" target="_blank"><b><u>5. Fall Science Experiments</u></b></a><br>
<br>
<a href="https://inspirationlaboratories.com/fall-science-activities/" target="_blank"><b><u>6. More Fall Science Activities</u></b></a><br>
<br>
<br>
<b>Fall Printables:</b><br><br>
<b>Document Fall Learning</b> by printing some of these activity pages and worksheets.<br><br>
<a href="https://www.superteacherworksheets.com/autumn.html" target="_blank"><b><u>1. Fall & Autumn Worksheets</u></b></a><br>
<br>
<a href="http://www.enchantedlearning.com/crafts/fall/" target="_blank"><b><u>2. Fall Crafts and Printouts</u></b></a><br>
<br>
<a href="http://www.theteacherscorner.net/printable-worksheets/seasonal/fall/index.htm" target="_blank"><b><u>3. Printable Pages & Coloring Activities</u></b></a><br>
<br>
<a href="https://www.education.com/worksheets/autumn-fun/" target="_blank"><b><u>4. Fall & Autumn Worksheets</u></b></a><br>
<br>
<a href="https://www.allkidsnetwork.com/worksheets/fall/" target="_blank"><b><u>5. More Fall Worksheets</u></b></a><br>
<br>
<b>Subscribe (at right)</b> to receive weekly lessons and activities via email!<br><br>
Happy homeschooling!<br>
<br><br>
Sherri Linsenbachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729044389931914911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1381911326564893199.post-80064551144728979172022-09-14T14:56:00.004-04:002022-09-14T17:01:21.489-04:0050+ Learning Activities for This Last Week of Summer<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfDkvdOdZ4FDZLwhNa8ExabQNWYKTrBGLpFGCiKAgm8iUw_V_48NoSyBu4HsJAAnncb7Vlr3NfTbkczbLF5zD3dprWHVKCV6d0Jtf-LLACEyAY9NQjepJUaUTARW8towSpbOWUFLfxsQpZSvEmWBteRjjN0YkQn3aFpqlB8754arfzuDLhqJs_d3-e/s200/Path-in-woods-painting-by-Sherri-Linsenbach-200.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; clear: left; float: left;"><img alt="" border="0" width="200" data-original-height="167" data-original-width="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfDkvdOdZ4FDZLwhNa8ExabQNWYKTrBGLpFGCiKAgm8iUw_V_48NoSyBu4HsJAAnncb7Vlr3NfTbkczbLF5zD3dprWHVKCV6d0Jtf-LLACEyAY9NQjepJUaUTARW8towSpbOWUFLfxsQpZSvEmWBteRjjN0YkQn3aFpqlB8754arfzuDLhqJs_d3-e/s200/Path-in-woods-painting-by-Sherri-Linsenbach-200.jpg"/></a></div><br>
<b>Summer is coming to a close.</b> Autumn officially begins on September 22 this year. That means we have about 7 days of summer left, and we should all enjoy it to the fullest. Get outside, soak up the last of the Summer Sun, and savor it. Make this last week of summer fun, special, memorable, and educational!<br><br><br>
<b>Take the “Classroom” outside!</b> As soon as the morning chores are done, head outside. Pack sack lunches, lunch boxes, a thermos, bottles of water, and snacks. <b>Bring along backpacks</b>, phones, cameras, binoculars, step counters or fitness trackers, books, field guides, notebooks, paper, pencils, pens.<br><br>
<b>Use your backyard, local parks, nature trails, or any green space</b> for your “classroom” this week. <b>Free your mind</b> from daily worries and <b>embrace the present moments</b> spent outside with your children. <b>Be open</b> to whatever crosses your path as you <b>observe and absorb</b> your surroundings together. Try to <b>visit different areas</b> each day.<br><br>
<b>Flexibility is key this week – yet learning will occur! </b> If your children are following a specific homeschool program and need to stay on-track, take the lessons with you. Allow them to complete lessons outside. <b>Then engage with nature</b> and let children <b>spread their wings and explore. </b><br><br>
<b>As they explore the outdoors, </b> what do they see? What can they do in this space? How do they feel here? What more would they like to do or see? Where else would they like to go? Encourage them to <b>write or sketch</b> these observations and feelings – Language Arts has now begun!<br><br>
<b>7 Days of Learning, 50 Activities</b><br><br>
<b>For 7 days of learning and 50+ activities, </b> try these activities outdoors. You can do <b>one activity</b> per day, or <b>all the activities</b> each day, or <b>variations of the activities every day</b>, all year, rain or shine! And learning will naturally occur, each and every day.<br><br>
<b>1. Language Arts:</b><br>
• Go on “Story Walks” along nature trails, in local parks, or in library gardens.<br>
• Create your own “Story Walk” in your backyard or neighborhood green space.<br>
• Read favorite books while swinging or relaxing in the branches of a tree.<br>
• Sketch the scenes and vistas surrounding you, then describe why they're special to you.<br>
• Read signs and plaques describing local areas of interest.<br>
• Discuss things you had never noticed or experienced, and why they’re interesting.<br>
• Write stories or essays about the places you visit and the things you see this week.<br><br>
<b>2. Social Studies:</b><br>
• Create a map of your community parks, neighborhood green spaces, nature trails.<br>
• Each day, draw the route you take, using different colors to indicate different days and areas visited.<br>
• Describe landmarks encountered, such as gates or sign posts, trailheads or information displays, boulders or stone formations, waterfalls or creeks, bridges or boardwalks, monuments or memorials, etc.<br>
• Learn the difference between “natural landmarks” and “cultural landmarks.”<br>
• Research these landmark terms: geological landmarks, biological landmarks, architecture landmarks, archaeological landmarks, and see how they differ.<br>
• Discuss how your local landmarks relate to the history of your town or community.<br>
• Photograph, draw, or sketch these landmarks, and write about their history and importance to your area.<br><br>
<b>3. Science:</b><br>
• Use field guides and binoculars to identify plants; wildflowers; trees; birds; insects; animals; urban wildlife; rivers, streams, or pond life; ocean, beach, or shoreline life, etc.<br>
• Learn which birds, butterflies, or wildflowers are most common in your backyard or local parks.<br>
• Plant flowers that attract birds, hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees to your own backyard.<br>
• Build bird feeders, birdhouses, butterfly houses, bat houses, or natural habitats that will draw beneficial animals to your location.<br>
• Plan dozens of outdoor activities by using books such as <i>Outdoor Science Experiments; Backyard Science and Discovery; Nature Smarts; Outdoor Science Projects;</i> and <i>Exploring Nature</i>.<br>
• Observe the sky and clouds overhead. What type of cloud formations do you see? What type of weather might they bring? How has the location of the sun changed since you left your house this morning? Draw or describe these in your Science Journal.<br>
• Write about your favorite places in your Science Journal or notebook, describing why those areas felt special to you, and add photos or drawings of them, too.<br><br>
<b>4. Math:</b><br>
• Consult step counters, pedometers, or fitness trackers to tally up total steps and distance of nature walks each day.<br>
• Determine the time spent on each walk, and if using a fitness tracker, determine the number of calories burned per time and distance.<br>
• For comparisons, run around a track or trail, and compare that to walking the same track or trail, in terms of steps, time, distance, and calories burned.<br>
• Create a chart in your Math Journal or notebook, illustrating the daily steps, distance, time, and calories burned.<br>
• Using the map from Social Studies, calculate the distance or miles between your house and the park, nature trail, creek, local store, downtown square, etc.<br>
• Using the construction ideas from Science, calculate the size, dimensions, openings, slats, etc. for birdhouses, feeders, bat houses, and other outdoor science projects.<br>
• Formulate and draw blueprints or plans for constructing these projects, based upon your calculations, then take photos of the completed projects.<br><br>
<b>5. Life Skills:</b><br>
• Use decision-making skills on where to walk or explore the outdoors each day, deciding what items to take along, what the weather will be like, and what to wear each day.<br>
• Use critical-thinking skills on how to reach the places you want to go, the best routes to take, the most-interesting paths or trails to follow, the many things you can learn.<br>
• Observe and note everything around you – the good and the not-so-good – and discuss why it's important to observe your surroundings.<br>
• Obey safety rules and “rules of the road” – watching traffic, even on nature trails, exercising caution at crosswalks, and paying attention to traffic signals.<br>
• Be respectful of other walkers, hikers, bicyclists, horse trail riders, and others who are outside to enjoy a day in nature.<br>
• Be careful and aware of the inhabitants of nature, from insects and snakes, to bears and wolves, to alligators and sharks – it’s their home, too, so maintain safe distances.<br>
• Clean up after picnics and science projects, and leave no trace behind – in other words: “Take only memories, leave only footprints.”<br><br>
<b>6. Art:</b><br>
• Draw detailed maps of trails or places visited each day.<br>
• Paint or draw colorful sketches of butterflies on flowers, birds in trees, fish in ponds, waves along the shoreline.<br>
• Try urban sketches of landscapers working in the park, tables and umbrellas in an outdoor café, shopkeepers opening their doors, delivery trucks outside a storefront.<br>
• Sketch a strolling musician, a plein air art event in the park, artwork in an art gallery, iron or concrete sculptures in the park.<br>
• Learn about famous and not-so-famous artists, painters, sculptors in your town and the artwork they created.<br>
• Try copying one of the artist’s artwork or creations, then try it again, in your own style.<br>
• Take photos of all the artistic views you see on your walks, or outdoors in your own backyard, then sketch, paint, or create them from your photos.<br><br>
<b>7. Music:</b><br>
• Listen – intently – to Nature’s Music: the birds singing to each other, the wind in the trees, crickets chirping in tall grasses, dry leaves rustling along the sidewalk, gravel crunching beneath your feet, the creek gurgling over rocks, waves crashing against the shoreline.<br>
• Replicate these sounds of Nature’s Music the best you can, singing like the birds, whooshing like the wind, chirping like the crickets, gurgling like the creek.<br>
• Create your own songs about nature, composing the lyrics and melody to express your feelings about being outside.<br>
• Dance to the music from a concert in the park.<br>
• Learn about the local musicians in your area and try to see their performances.<br>
• Visit music stores and look at new music or instruments you’d like to learn to play.<br>
• Perform a musical or create a play based upon your experiences in nature this week.<br><br>
<b>Remember to explore nature often,</b> and enjoy the great outdoors, rain or shine, summer or winter, spring or fall – <b>and enjoy it all!</b><br><br>
Happy homeschooling!<br><br>
Sherri Linsenbachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729044389931914911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1381911326564893199.post-71593967319120686502022-09-08T14:55:00.010-04:002022-09-08T15:41:27.253-04:00Free Books to Read + Benefits of Reading<b>Here are 7 important benefits of reading,</b> followed by 12 websites that provide <b>free books for your children</b> to read online.<br><br>
<b>1. Reading a book or story for 20 to 30 minutes per day</b> is considered “brain food” for your children!<br><br>
<b>2. Reading stimulates and exercises various areas of the brain,</b> and it enhances language skills and vocabulary skills every day.<br><br>
<b>3. Reading makes connections in the brain,</b> building upon current knowledge and leading to additional knowledge and comprehension each time a new book is read.<br><br>
<b>4. Reading fires up the imagination and creativity,</b> opening your child’s mind to greater possibilities, ideas, and inspiration.<br><br>
<b>5. Reading increases attention spans and concentration,</b> helping children to focus better, stay in the moment, and stay on-task.<br><br>
<b>6. Reading improves test scores and skills in all subjects areas,</b> including math, science, technology, social studies, art, music, as well as reading, writing, and language arts.<br><br>
<b>7. Reading is pure joy,</b> taking us anywhere we want to go! Read together as a family, and encourage children to read on their own, to help establish a wonderful reading habit that will provide entertainment and education for a lifetime.<br><br>
<B>Free Books to Read!</B><br><br>
<b>Here’s a variety of Children’s Books for free.</b> Read, discuss, dramatize, draw, explore, experiment - you’ll be learning every day! And you can start right now!<BR><BR>
<B>1. Storyline Online:</B> <a href="https://www.storylineonline.net/" target="_blank"><b><u>Stories Read to Children</u></b></a><BR><BR>
<B>2. Free Children’s Stories:</B> <a href="https://www.freechildrenstories.com/" target="_blank"><b><u>Free Children’s Stories </u></b></a><BR><BR>
<B>3. Magic Keys Books:</B> <a href="http://www.magickeys.com/books/" target="_blank"><b><u>Magic Keys Books</u></b></a><BR><BR>
<B>4. Story Jumper:</B> <a href="https://www.storyjumper.com/book/search" target="_blank"><b><u>Story Jumper</u></b></a><BR><BR>
<B>5. Story Berries:</B> <a href="https://www.storyberries.com/" target="_blank"><b><u>Story Berries</u></b></a><BR><BR>
<B>6. Free Kid’s Books:</B> <a href="https://freekidsbooks.org/" target="_blank"><b><u>Free Kid’s Books</u></b></a><BR><BR>
<B>7. Shakespeare's Plays:</B> <a href="http://opensourceshakespeare.org/views/plays/plays.php" target="_blank"><b><u>Shakespeare Plays</u></b></a><BR><BR>
<B>8. Project Gutenberg Children’s Books:</B> <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/bookshelves/search/?query=children%7Cchristmas%7Cchild%7Cschool" target="_blank"><b><u>Project Gutenberg Books</u></b></a><BR><BR>
<B>9. Open Library:</B> <a href="https://openlibrary.org/collections/k-12" target="_blank"><b><u>Open Library</u></b></a><BR><BR>
<B>10. Funbrain Reading:</B> <a href="https://www.funbrain.com/books" target="_blank"><b><u>Funbrain Books</u></b></a><BR><BR>
<B>11. Epic Books:</B> <a href="https://www.getepic.com/" target="_blank"><b><u>Epic Books</u></b></a><BR><BR>
<B>12. Reading Resources:</B> <a href="https://read.gov/kids/" target="_blank"><b><u>Reading Resources</u></b></a><BR><BR>
<B>Local Libraries:</B> Of course, your local library is one of the <b>greatest free resources</b> for reading! Besides stories and reading for pleasure, here's a few ideas for books on specific topics:<BR><BR>
<b>Book Suggestions on Specific Topics:</b><br><br>
<B>1. Spectacular Stories for Curious Kids (history)</B><br><br>
<B>2. World's Wildest Places and the People Protecting Them (social studies)</B><br><br>
<B>3. Super Cool Science Experiments for Kids (science)</B><br><br>
<B>4. Math Riddles for Smart Kids (math)</B><br><br>
<B>5. Ultimate Book of the Future (technology)</B><br><br>
<B>6. Organic Artist for Kids (art and nature)</B><br><br>
<B>7. Make Music: Creating, Playing, Composing (music)</B><br><br>
<b>Note: Keep a Reading Log,</b> tracking the books and stories children have read. Include the title of the book, the author, and the date read. Have children <b>describe why they liked the story,</b> and have them <b>sketch the cover or illustrations</b> from the book. Tally up the number of books read daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly. <b>You'll be amazed</b> at the results!<br><br>
Happy homeschooling!<br><br>
Sherri Linsenbachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729044389931914911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1381911326564893199.post-6870884556069464442022-09-01T15:11:00.002-04:002022-09-01T15:17:44.005-04:00Unschooling Activities, Curiosity, and Learning!<b>Children are born with natural curiosity.</b> When their curiosity is suppressed, their learning is diminished. When their curiosity is encouraged with nurturing guidance, their learning accelerates. Unschooling focuses on interest-driven activities sparked by curiosity. Your guidance can help enhance your child’s curiosity, creativeness, and education.<br><br>
<b>Here are some unschooling activities</b> that have been suggested by our readers. These are just a few of the many possibilities. Each can radiate out into further learning and even more activities. Below this list is additional information on <b>why and how unschooling works so well.</b><br><br>
<b>Remember: Playing is learning!</b> These activities and ideas can evolve into a world of learning!<br><br>
<b>Unschooling Activities Suggested by Readers:</b><br><br>
• Daily explorations and play<BR>
• Hands-on activities<BR>
• Science experiments<BR>
• Invention projects<BR>
• Construction projects<BR>
• Composing or playing music<BR>
• Arts and crafts<BR>
• Drawing and painting<BR>
• Sculpting, clay, and pottery<BR>
• Puzzles and sorting games<BR>
• Pretend play<BR>
• Forts and teepees<BR>
• Scrapbooking<BR>
• Journaling<BR>
• Creative writing<BR>
• Writing books and stories<BR>
• Reading and researching<BR>
• Library trips<BR>
• New books or authors to read<BR>
• Drama, acting, and performing<BR>
• Dancing and singing<BR>
• Making videos and animations<BR>
• Board games<BR>
• Outdoor or backyard games<BR>
• Family games<BR>
• Nature walks<BR>
• Relay races<BR>
• Scavenger hunts<BR>
• Math manipulatives<BR>
• Cooking and baking<BR>
• Gardening<BR>
• Decorating<BR>
• Home projects<BR>
• Sports activities<BR>
• Recreational activities<BR>
• Family activities<BR>
• Camping and hiking<BR>
• Weekend trips or getaways<BR>
• Swimming and skating<BR>
• Surfing and skiing<BR>
• Gymnastics or wall-climbing<BR>
• Picnics and socials<BR>
• Field trips<BR>
• Museum and zoo visits<BR>
• Local tours<BR>
• Community courses<BR>
• Family discussions<BR>
• Family newsletters<BR>
• Family businesses<BR>
• Apprenticeships<BR>
• Internships<BR>
• Volunteering<BR>
• Life skills<BR>
• Interest-driven learning pursuits<BR>
• Independent learning activities<BR>
• Natural living and learning every day<BR>
<BR>
<b>Curiosity increases activity in specific areas of the brain,</b> helping people to absorb and retain information longer. When you are interested and curious about a topic, your brain becomes more inclined to learn about it. Children who are allowed to ask questions, and to remain curious about the world around them, remain eager to learn.<br><br>
<b>Children are naturally curious about everything,</b> and because curiosity helps them to learn, it’s a trait that should never be discouraged. Asking “Why?” is an innate part of the way children learn. They should always be encouraged to ask why, and to be encouraged to find answers to “Why?”<br><br>
<b>Unschooling is one of the most natural ways</b> for children to seek the answers to their “Why” questions, and one of the most natural ways for children to acquire knowledge. You’ll want to keep their curiosity alive and encourage them to follow their interests as they learn about the world around them.<br><br>
<b>Children gain a huge amount of knowledge and skills</b> between birth and age five, <b>without formal schooling</b>. They learn by experimenting, doing, trying and failing, then trying again. Rarely are they deterred, and rarely do they give up. Young children love to experiment. They enjoy trying things their own way, and if it doesn’t work, they’ll try another way. Just as curiosity is an in-born trait in children, so is the desire to learn new things.<br><br>
<b>Trying the Unschooling Method</b><br><br>
<b>If you’re not sure about the unschooling method,</b> try unschooling during weekends, vacations, summertime, or any time! Watch them play, and you’ll see them learn. Encourage their curiosity, and guide them in finding answers and resources. Follow their interests, and you’ll learn right alongside them. You’ll certainly be amazed at how adept they are at learning through the myriad topics that interest them.<br><br>
<b>More Unschooling Activities</b><br><br>
<b>Children are eager to play, and, consequently, learn.</b> Sometimes, though, they might feel that they’ve forgotten how to play, or can’t think of anything to do. Spend time brainstorming ideas together. Ask your children what they’d like to do if they had all the time in the world to do whatever they liked. Then explore those ideas together.<br><br>
<b>Revisit fun activities</b> from the past, which they might’ve forgotten about, but which could interest them in new or different ways now.<br><br>
<b>Activities could include:</b><br><br>
• Building simple models or 3D structures<BR>
• Performing plays based on books or movies<BR>
• Creating new types of board games to play<BR>
• Designing video games for handheld devices<BR>
• Learning to play new instruments and composing music<BR>
• Writing and creating comic books or cartoon strips<BR>
• Performing and making videos of scientific experiments<BR>
• Using LEGO sets or electronic kits to create new gadgets<BR>
• Cooking or baking new concoctions for the family<BR><BR>
<b>Every day provides multiple ideas</b> for playing, unschooling, and learning. There’s no limit to what your children can do and achieve!<br><br>
Happy homeschooling!<br><br>
Sherri Linsenbachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729044389931914911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1381911326564893199.post-87103901060426617462022-08-23T12:48:00.006-04:002022-08-23T14:28:15.867-04:00Hands-On Math Activities for Everyday Learning<b>Math opportunities surround</b> your child every day. From
telling time to food preparations, measurements, temperature variations,
counting, adding, money matters, time requirements, sports scores, game
strategies, construction toys, craft creations, algebra and building projects,
distances and speeds, fractions and percents, fascinating Fibonacci numbers—
your child can <b>practice math in real life</b> every day!<br><br>
<b>When children are engaged</b> in real-life activities, they <b>learn quicker and retain what they learned longer</b>.<br><br>
<b>As Maria Montessori said, “What the hand does, the mind remembers.”</b> This is especially true for comprehending math concepts.<br><br>
<b>Daily Math Fun and Learning</b><br><br>
<b>From shape-sorting games to determining the perimeter</b> and area of each
of the shapes, you can apply that exercise to nearly any object. Take that
idea further by determining the perimeter and area of the room you’re in,
as well as each room in your home. <b>Go outside and determine</b> the overall
perimeter of your entire house or complex, then calculate total square footage.
Which room is the largest in your home? Which room is the smallest?
Why are the rooms and homes designed in the size and shape that they are?<br><br>
<b>In this way, a simple shape-sorting game has grown into real-life learning</b>, making connections between basic shapes, living spaces,
and home design. This is an important lesson: <b>Take fun, simple games or
daily lessons and make connections to the things that are real in life</b>, the
things that are a part of everyday life. <b>This is when education and knowledge
clicks</b>, and learning makes sense and solidifies in a child’s mind.<br><br>
<b>With math opportunities all around us</b>, it’s easy to practice mathematical
skills each day. Simply discuss math concepts as you play together, do
household chores together, cook and bake together. When you <b>run errands
or take daily walks</b> together, determine distances traveled, the speed
you’re traveling, and the time it takes to travel those distances. The more
your children practice real-life math exercises, the better they’ll become.<br><br>
<b>Math Games</b><br><br>
<b>Board games and card games</b> are great ways to develop and sharpen
math skills, as well as reasoning and strategy skills. Bring out the <b>board
games</b> each evening, on weekends, or anytime during the homeschool day!
Play old favorites, such as Risk, Monopoly or Monopoly Junior, PayDay, or
Chess. <b>Try games</b> such as Math Bingo, Math Lotto, Sum Swamp, Cloud Hoppers, Mountain Raiders, 24 Math Game, Pizza Fraction Fun, Adsumudi, Smath, Equate Math, and similar math games.<br><br>
<b>Play “store”</b> and see what it’s like to open and run your own
shop. Use play money or real money, “sell” retail items or consignment
items, and keep a running inventory in your pretend store. Record expenses
and sales in homemade ledger books, and determine the daily and weekly
income—or income potential—of your shop.<br><br>
<b>Another fun business</b> is the online game of <a href="https://www.coolmathgames.com/0-lemonade-stand" target="_blank"><b><u>Lemonade Stand</u></b></a>. Kids will gain experience in nearly every aspect of a business: pricing, sales, inventory control, and handling the ups and downs of the economy over a period of several days. Make a pitcher of lemonade and head over to the computer and open your lemonade stand!<br><br>
<b>For math and reasoning games</b>, visit the website <a href="https://www.funbrain.com/math-zone" target="_blank"><b><u>FunBrain.com</u></b></a>. There's Math Baseball, Cake Monster, MathCar Racing, Math Soccer, Measure It, Shape Surveyor, Guess the Number, Fresh Baked Fractions, and many more. Most of the games are available in Easy, Medium, Hard, and Super Hard levels for all age groups and skill levels.<br><br>
<b>Mastering Math Skills</b><br><br>
<b>Basic math, or arithmetic, includes</b> counting, adding, subtracting, estimating,
measuring, and calculating. As your children progress through the elementary
years, additional mathematical skills will be introduced. When your
child has <b>grasped the basics</b>, you’ll be able to help him build upon a solid
mathematical foundation.<br><br>
<b>Math skills introduced in traditional schools</b> move
along so quickly, though, that if a child doesn’t catch them the first time around,
they’ve often lost that window of opportunity. <b>In your homeschool, however</b>,
if you see that your child is still struggling with basic subtraction, for
instance, you won’t want to move ahead to more complex problems until he
has mastered the basics. Fortunately, <b>you have plenty of time</b> for practicing basic concepts in your home. There’s no specific timeframe
your child must stay within.<br><br>
<b>When your child has achieved</b> true comprehension of subtraction, along
with the ability to perform the calculations flawlessly, then he can move on to
the next lessons. <b>You will know without a doubt</b> that he has truly mastered the
skills he needs before moving ahead. With this solid foundation, he is ready for
multiplication and division, fractions and decimals, estimation and measurement,
problem solving, and more challenging mathematical equations.<br><br>
<b>Math Manipulatives</b><br><br>
<b>Using hands-on examples</b> of math problems will help children better understand
the abstract concepts that are introduced. You can use any objects for
counting, adding, and subtracting, from buttons to beans to plastic animal
counters. You can also use an abacus or counting frame with plastic beads.<br><br>
<b>Math manipulatives</b> are available online or at retail or educational supply stores.
However, you can often <b>make your own</b>. From poster board or construction
paper, you can create coin-sized counters, pattern blocks, fraction circles, fraction slices, fraction bars, cardboard clocks, and mathematical charts. You can also
make rulers, number lines, geometric boards, play money, and flashcards.
And <b>your children will enjoy</b> the cutting and creative activities, too.<br><br>
<b> Everyday Math</b><br><br>
<b>Daily situations present excellent ways</b> to put math skills to regular,
logical use. In a normal day, your family can practice telling time as the minutes
and hours go by. You and your children can estimate, then measure
ingredients when cooking on a daily basis.<br><br>
<b>Practice money skills</b> by regularly setting up "stores" in your home. Have
children put prices on items gathered from the pantry or on toys or books gathered
from their room. Make purchases, have children add up the total costs,
pay with play or real money, and have children count out your correct change.<br><br>
<b>When grocery shopping</b>, children can keep running tabs of the
items you’re purchasing and see how close they come to the actual total. At the
gasoline station, they can calculate the cost of your tank of gas. Then, based
upon how many gallons of gasoline are in the tank and how many miles your
car gets to a gallon, they can determine how far this tank of gas will go.<br><br>
<b>Every day offers mathematical problems</b> that can be fun to solve, clearly showing children the importance of learning and applying math skills in real life.<br><br>
<b>Books and Activity Books</b> such as <i>Real World Math, Math Connections, Math Art, Math Wise, Real-Life Math Problem Solving, Real-World Math for Hands-On Fun, Hands-On Math Projects with Real-Life Applications</i> provide interesting activities that help your child understand and relate key math skills to everyday life.<br><br>
<b>Remember to jot down activities and lessons</b> in your lesson logbook or on our log sheets (available here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_3pQuwm94k-Ihs2YGGpjOO3KRQB1csaN/view?ths=true" target="_blank"><b><u>Weekly Planner Log link</u></b></a>.)<br><br>
<b>Note:</b> Some material published here include excerpts from my book, <i>The Everything Guide to Homeschooling</i>, by Sherri Linsenbach, available online or in libraries and bookstores.<br><br>
Happy Homeschooling!<br><br>
Sherri Linsenbachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729044389931914911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1381911326564893199.post-71402898416261126392022-08-16T15:47:00.000-04:002022-08-16T15:47:09.579-04:00500+ Science Experiments and Activities<b>Hundreds of Science Experiments and Activities</b> will keep learning fun and educational this year!<br><br>
<b>With 500+ Activities</b>, you’ll never be without a topic to teach over the coming year! And, of course, your children will be sharpening ALL their skills – reading, writing, reasoning, math, technology – while having fun with the experiments!<br><br>
<b>From Easy to More Challenging</b>, the experiments noted here have clear, easy-to-follow instructions, illustrations, photos, and explanations.<br><br>
<b>Get Started Now!</b><br><br>
<b>400+ Experiments and Activities</b> are illustrated at Scientific American, on topics such as Curling Metals, Airplane Launchers, Marble Roller Coasters, Wind-Powered Cars, Earthquake Structures, Blood Flow Models, Double Helix, Archimedes Screw, Building Bridges, Designing Cell Phone Stands, Art Science, Smartphone Science, Making Batteries, Making Rainbows, Making Robots, Making Rockets, and much more! There’s <b>20+ pages, each with 20 Science Experiments or Activities</b>, for a total of <b>400+ Learning Activities!</b> Click here:<br><br>
<a href="https://www.scientificamerican.com/education-and-learning/bring-science-home" target="_blank"><b><u>Scientific American Experiments</u></b></a><br><br>
<b>100+ Experiments and Activities</b> from Easy Science Experiments to STEM Activities and Rocket Science are offered at Science Fun. The <b>experiments focus on popular topics often taught in school</b>, such as Color, Light, Sound, Water, Electricity, Magnetism, Force and Motion, Weather and Air, Gravity, Density, Balloon Science, Chemical Reactions, Marine Life, Animals, Human Body, Dinosaurs, Fossils, Rocks, Geology, Crystals, Biology, Botany, Ecology, STEM and Engineering Activities, Rocket Science and Space Experiments. Click here:<br><br>
<a href="https://www.sciencefun.org/kidszone/experiments/science-experiments-for-kids" target="_blank"><b><u>Science Fun Experiments</u></b></a><br><br>
<b>40+ Science Experiments</b> are shown here, with colorful instructions and explanations on the “why” behind the science concepts. See how to Create Clouds, Friction Racers, Anti-Gravity Chambers, Windmill Cams, Rainbow-Colored Xylophones, Popsicle Stick Harmonicas, Geysers, Rockets, and more! Click here:<br><br>
<a href="https://www.mi-sci.org/learn/families/athomescience" target="_blank"><b><u>Home Science Experiments</u></b></a><br><br>
<b>40+ More Science Experiments</b> focusing on <b>Life Science, Physical Science</b>, and <b>Planetary Science</b> are available at Bill Nye the Science Guy’s site. Experiments include Temperature Time Warp, Bending Light, Marble Madness, Inertia, Barometer in a Bottle, Erosion Explosion, Twistin’ Tornado, and more. Click here:<br><br>
<a href="https://billnye.com/home-demos" target="_blank"><b><u>Bill Nye Experiments</u></b></a><br><br>
<b>Log the Learning!</b><br><br>
<b>Note the Science Experiments</b>, the Subject Areas, and the Concepts Learned through the experiments. <b>Lessons learned and skills sharpened</b> include Life Science, Physical Science, Earth Science, Chemistry, Biology, Physics, Math Skills, Calculation Skills, Measurement Skills, Reasoning Skills, Critical Thinking Skills, Spatial Skills, Creative Thinking Skills, Reading, Writing, Journaling, Arts and Crafts, Geology, Geography, Social Science, and more. Jot down the lessons and activities in your lesson logbook or on our log sheets (available here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_3pQuwm94k-Ihs2YGGpjOO3KRQB1csaN/view?ths=true" target="_blank"><u>Weekly Planner Log link</u></a>.)<br><br>
Happy Homeschooling!<br><br>
Sherri Linsenbachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729044389931914911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1381911326564893199.post-82028480601003643772022-08-08T15:25:00.002-04:002022-08-08T15:25:58.049-04:00Weekly Homeschool Activities & Lessons: The World Around Me<b>Recent learning activities</b> focused on your child asking: <b>“Where in the World Am I?”</b> and <b>“Who in the World Am I?”</b> (See previous posts from August 1 and August 4.)<br><br>
<b>This week,</b> have your child think about: <b>“The World Around Me.”</b><br><br>
<b>Learning opportunities abound</b> when thinking about the many <b>things that are around us:</b> Air, Water, Grass, Trees, Flowers, Plants, Animals, Birds, Insects, Sky, Clouds, Rivers, Oceans, Mountains, People, and much, much more! Just one of these <b>topics could result in learning and lessons</b> for days, weeks, months, or years! And they're interesting to kids of all ages!<br><br>
<b>The Troposphere</b> -- or world around us -- is the layer of the Atmosphere that includes these many things that surround us. <b>Find our Troposphere</b> in this colorful chart of our Atmosphere: <a href="https://www.sciencefacts.net/layers-of-atmosphere.html" target="_blank"><b><u>Atmosphere to View</u></b></a>. Read more about the Troposphere and other layers of the Atmosphere at that website, too.<br><br>
<b>Art Project:</b> Draw and color your own chart of the atmosphere, similar to the one you saw above. Or use different colors of construction paper to <b>create the different levels of the atmosphere</b>. Determine where the Earth and the troposphere is. Then cut out and color shapes to indicate the Earth, mountains, trees, sky, sun, clouds, birds, airplanes, meteors, stars, spaceships, etc. Then glue them in their proper layers of the atmosphere. <b>Discuss the ones</b> that you see most often and the ones you see only occasionally. Why is that?<br><br>
<b>Fun Science Project:</b> Create your own <b>3-Dimensional World</b>. Use cardboard and boxes, construction paper, tissue paper, etc., to <b>replicate the views you see</b> around you. Glue “grass” onto the cardboard. Create houses, trees, and animals (from boxes and construction paper), flowers and plants (from colorful tissue paper), sidewalks and creek banks (from small rocks and twigs). <b>Use your imagination</b> to create your own 3-dimensional world!<br><br>
<b>Math Skills:</b> Determine distances and heights: <b>How tall</b> are the trees around you? How tall is your house? How long is your sidewalk and how long is your street? How long is the river that flows through your town? <b>How high</b> are the clouds? How high do the airplanes fly? <b>How far</b> away is the sun and the moon? How far away are the stars? Write these down in a Science Journal. <b>Make a Chart</b>, showing the “shortest/closest” items, all the way up to the “tallest/farthest away” places.<br><br>
<b>More Math Skills:</b> More on distances and heights: <b>How far</b> does our troposphere extend (about 10 miles)? How far is 10 miles? How far is 1 mile? How far is 5,280 feet (1 mile)? How far is 10 miles (52,800 feet)? How far is 1 foot or 3 feet? <b>How long</b> is the room you are in? How long is your sidewalk or driveway? Measure these with rulers, yardsticks, tape measures. Walk or bike 1 mile with your parents (5,280 feet). Ride 10 miles in a car with your parents (52,800 feet). Think of how all these <b>distances relate in the world</b> around you and above you. Write about these distances in your <b>Science Journal</b> or <b>Make Charts</b> illustrating these distances.<br><br>
<b>Field Trips and Photographs:</b> Take field trips through your neighborhood, towns, and cities. <b>Take photos of scenes in your world</b>, such as fields, woods, rivers, mountains, parks, birds, squirrels, deer, horses, buildings, barns, bridges, benches, people walking, people biking, kites flying, planes flying, clouds drifting. <b>Take field trips often</b>, and take photos often, too. Put the photos in a scrapbook or journal. <b>Describe this world around you</b>, and how it changes from time to time, or from season to season.<br><br>
<b>Draw or Paint Pictures</b> inspired by your field trips and photos. Display your artwork or keep your drawings and paintings in an Art box, folder, or portfolio. <b>Draw or paint your world</b> often. Always keep <b>your art projects</b> to look back on.<br><br>
<b>Read Books on Troposphere and Atmosphere</b>, such as <i>Stickmen's Guide to Earth's Atmosphere in Layers; Our Amazing Sky; Atmosphere: Earth Science;</i> and <i>The Layers of Earth’s Atmosphere</i>. What more did you learn in these books?<br><br>
<b>Read Books on the World Around Us</b>, such as <i>Explore My World</i> series; <i>Exploring Nature Activity Book; Secret World of Plants; One Million Insects; Fascinating Animal Book; The Skies Above My Eyes; Sky Gazing: Guide to the Moon, Sun, Planet, Stars</i>; and books on <i>Around Town; Country Life; Farm Life; City Life</i>. Discuss how these books relate to your world around you.<br><br>
<b>Music on Troposphere and Atmosphere:</b> <i>The Atmosphere Song</i> by Math Dad. Have fun with this one!<br><br>
<b>Lessons learned and skills sharpened:</b> Earth science, Life science, the World, Math Skills, Measurements, Calculating Distances, Social Studies, Communities, Reading, Writing, Journaling, Science Projects, Research Skills, Critical Thinking, Spatial Thinking, Creative Thinking, Arts and Crafts, Music, Field Trips, Photography, Scrapbooking, Painting, Drawing, and more. Jot down these lessons and activities in your lesson logbook or on our log sheets (available here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_3pQuwm94k-Ihs2YGGpjOO3KRQB1csaN/view?ths=true" target="_blank"><u>Weekly Planner Log link</u></a>.)<br><br>
Happy Homeschooling!<br><br>
Sherri Linsenbachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729044389931914911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1381911326564893199.post-38828919439740280032022-08-04T13:46:00.023-04:002022-08-04T14:55:02.378-04:00Homeschool Lessons, Learning Activities, Who I Am<b>An earlier, fun lesson</b> focused on having your child ask: <b>“Where in the world am I?”</b> (See the previous post from August 1.)<br><br>
<b>Those Educational Activities covered</b> Social Studies, Geography, Community, Map-Making, Math Skills, Reading, Writing, Researching, Creative Thinking, Critical Thinking, Spatial Thinking, Reasoning Skills, Computer Skills, Arts and Crafts, Music, and more.<br><br>
<b>Now have your children ask: “<i>Who</i> in the world am I?”</b> Remembering who we are and our place in the world is important for each of us, at any age!<br><br>
<b>Discuss Children's Sense of Self</b> and who they are. Maybe they’re an only child, or one of many. What’s their place in the family: oldest child, youngest child, middle child, and how do they feel about that?<br><br>
<b>Family Tree activity:</b> Create or draw a unique <b>Family Tree</b> or print one from a source such as: <a href="http://www.clipartbest.com/printable-family-tree-for-kids" target="_blank"><b><u>Family Trees to Print</u></b></a>. Have kids list their brothers, sisters, parents, grandparents, and even aunts, uncles, and cousins if they’d like.<br><br>
<b>Genealogy activity:</b> To learn more about <b>Family History</b>, try creating a Family Record and Migration Maps, showing where one’s ancestors originated from or traveled from. Record details about ancestors in the <b>Family Record or Create a Scrapbook</b> showing your family’s history. For Family Records or Migration Maps, see these Genealogy Printables: <a href="https://www.archives.gov/education/family-history" target="_blank"><b><u>Family Records to Print</u></b></a>.<br><br>
<b>Family Interviews:</b> Encourage your children to <b>contact relatives and ask them questions</b> about their experiences as kids, where they lived, how they lived, what they did as kids in the summer and winter, and how life has changed for them over the years. As parents, share details about your own youth, too.<br><br>
<b>Write this information</b> in a Family History Notebook, or add the details in a <b>Scrapbook or Family Record</b>.<br><br>
<b>Do the Math:</b> Use Math Skills to <b>calculate</b> each family member’s current age, based on their birth dates or birth year. <b>Determine the year</b> that a grandparent was 8 years old and riding a bike to the store. Or the year a great-grandparent moved across the country when he or she was 12 years old. Have your own children <b>determine how old</b> they were when they learned to ride a bike, or moved to a new location, or learned to play an instrument, or started a new hobby. Put this information in the Family History Records, too!<br><br>
<b>Hobbies:</b> Children can think about their <b>hobbies or special interests</b>, and write about them in their notebook or journal. Which hobbies or activities have they enjoyed the most? Why? What new hobbies or activities would your children like to try next? Help them take the next steps to pursue their current interests.<br><br>
<b>Personality and Character:</b> Why are hobbies and special interests important to us? It’s part of <b>Who We Are</b>. It’s part of our Character, our Personality, our Human Nature. Who Am I? I am someone who likes to ________ (<i>fill in the blank!</i>). Then go for it! Be true to your nature and follow your dreams!<br><br>
<b>Self-Description:</b> Describe yourself, through writing, video, or audio recordings. <b>Describe your Personality</b>: your daily disposition, your happiness, your eagerness, your struggles or challenges, and how you feel about that. <b>Describe your Character</b>: your unique traits, your thoughts, your behaviors, your actions, and why you feel the way you do.<br><br>
<b>Self-Esteem and Self-Confidence:</b> Think about what makes you <b>feel good about yourself</b>. Maybe it’s being good in math, reading, writing, art, or music. Maybe it’s being good at basketball or swimming. Maybe it’s organizing your collections, or building things, or science projects, or creating new ideas. Maybe it’s helping your sister or brother, or helping your parents. Every day, there’s <b>things you can do</b> that make you proud of yourself. These things <b>increase your self-confidence</b>, your self-esteem, your self-worth, your self-joy! Do these things as often as possible!<br><br>
<b>Self-Improvement:</b> We all have room for self-improvement! If there’s things your child wants to get better at, remind them that they can “<b>Try, Try Again!</b>” Some say that if you really want to get better at something, do it every day – maybe 15 minutes a day, maybe an hour a day, maybe 2 hours a day, or even more. Depending on how badly your child wants to improve, help them <b>set a daily practice schedule</b> that works for them.<br><br>
<b>Self-Responsibility:</b> What’s your child’s <b>sense of responsibility</b> to his or her self? Taking care of toys, books, collectibles, and art supplies might top the list for many kids. Brushing teeth, bathing, grooming, etc., are also at the top of the list. Keeping their room neat and organized can be a responsibility. They can also help with their laundry, sorting and putting away clothes. Having <b>age-appropriate chores</b> and accomplishing them can be part of their responsibilities. Having age-appropriate rules and following the rules is a responsibility. Being a <b>responsible and helpful</b> person is always part of Who We Are.<br><br>
<b>Art Projects:</b> Create a <b>diorama of your home</b>, as simple or complex as your child would like. Have your child create paper figures of each member of your family, as basic or detailed as they like. Then place the figures in various rooms of the house, where the <b>family can interact</b> with each other. Place the family members’ names on the figures, label the rooms of the house, describe the events occurring in the diorama, and display it on a shelf. Have the diorama “<b>tell a story</b>” of your child’s life today. In a few weeks or months, make another diorama, <b>depicting your child’s story</b> at that point in their life. Have your child think about “Who I Am Today” compared with “Who I Was Yesterday.”<br><br>
<b>Games to Play:</b> <i>Family History Bingo, Family Tree Connection, The Genealogy Game, Ancestree Game, Pando Family History, The Family History Ball, Family Trivia</i>, and even <i>The Oregon Trail</i>.<br><br>
<b>Books to Read:</b> <i>Who I Am; I Like Myself; Self-Confidence Building Book; I Am, I Can Affirmations; Unplug: 365 Fun Family-Friendly Activities for Kids; I Can Do It; Steam Kids Projects; Hobby Time Adventure Journal; Family Tree Activity Book</i>; and more.<br><br>
<b>Lessons learned and skills sharpened:</b> History, Social Studies, Math, Reading, Writing, Science, Critical Thinking, Creative Thinking, Arts and Crafts, Research Skills, Scrapbooking, Journaling, Hobbies, and more. Jot down these lessons and activities in your lesson logbook or on our log sheets (available here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_3pQuwm94k-Ihs2YGGpjOO3KRQB1csaN/view?ths=true" target="_blank"><u>Weekly Planner Log link</u></a>.)<br><br>
Happy Homeschooling!<br><br>
Sherri Linsenbachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729044389931914911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1381911326564893199.post-14413614213249030032022-08-01T10:21:00.007-04:002022-08-04T13:49:40.717-04:00Weekly Homeschool Lessons, Learning Activities, Where I Am<b>Some “school years” begin in August</b> (which seems too early!), but we at Everything Homeschooling will begin providing <b>homeschool activities and homeschool lessons this month</b>, too.<br><br>
<b>To ease into your homeschool year</b>, here are some learning ideas and activities, which will be fun and educational for your children this week. See the <b>end of this post for ways to document homeschool activities</b> each week.<br><br>
<b>Week 1: </b> <br><br>
<b>Have your children ask: “Where in the world am I?”</b><br><br>
<b>Then think about that</b>. Maybe their answers will include: Home. With my family. In a town or city. In the country. On a farm.<br><br>
<b>Then ask your children:</b> What’s the name of your town, city, or neighborhood? What’s your address? Write this down.<br><br>
<b>How far do you live</b> from the grocery store, the dollar store or convenience store, library, park, zoo, gym, museum, recreation center, and other special places?<br><br>
<b>Draw a map</b> of your area and label these places on your map. Mark the location of your home on the map, too, along with your address.<br><br>
<b>Do the math:</b> Determine how far each of these places are from your home. Use Google Maps to measure the distance and calculate the time it takes to travel there by car or by walking or biking. Or, track the distance and time it takes the next time you visit those places.<br><br>
<b>Write these details</b> on your map or keep them in a notebook.<br><br>
<b>Print maps</b> of the world, the United States, regional maps, state maps, and more here: <a href="https://www.printableworldmap.net/category/state" target="_blank"><u>Maps to Print link</u></a>.<br><br>
<b>Label the maps</b>, noting your location in the world, in the United States, and in your state.<br><br>
<b>Learn more about map making</b> and reading maps, research different types of maps, view aerial or satellite maps, street maps, terrain or topography maps, and more.<br><br>
<b>Arts and Crafts Activities:</b> Make your own map by cutting out colorful shapes to match states or provinces. Cut out an outline of your country from cardboard, then glue your states in place. Be creative, and use whatever colorful materials or supplies you have to make your map unique and decorative!<br><br>
<b>Music and Songs:</b> <i>On the Map Song; Geography Songs; 50 States Songs; 7 Continents Songs</i>; and more.<br><br>
<b>Books to Read:</b> <i>Me on the Map; Where on Earth?; Beginner’s World Atlas; Fun with 50 States; Maps & Geography; Geography: A Visual Encyclopedia; Draw the USA; Draw the World; Geography Activity Books</i>; and many more at your library or online.<br><br>
<b>Games to Play:</b> <i>World Game Board Game; Race Across the USA; Great States; Ticket to Ride; Map of the World Puzzles; United States Puzzles</i>; and more.<br><br>
<b>Lessons learned and skills honed:</b> Reading, Writing, Social Studies, Community, Geography, Creative Thinking, Critical Thinking, Math Skills, Map Drawing, Spatial Thinking, Computer Skills, Technology, Reasoning Skills, Arts and Crafts, Music, and more. Jot down these lessons and activities in your lesson logbook or on our log sheets (available here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_3pQuwm94k-Ihs2YGGpjOO3KRQB1csaN/view?ths=true" target="_blank"><u>Weekly Planner Log link</u></a>.)<br><br>
Happy Homeschooling!<br><br>
Sherri Linsenbachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729044389931914911noreply@blogger.com0