The Rainbow Resource Center Homeschool Blog

COOKIES! Ahhh, the sights and sounds of fresh baked treats, children giggling as they cut out and decorate their own sugar cookies, pans crashing to the floor, flour everywhere…ok, so maybe the last two aren’t things to celebrate, but they are certainly a part of the treasured holiday experience. As a mom now looking back on those messy but fun baking sessions…mom, don’t miss this time to make great memories with your family!

In the spirit of Thanksgiving and the fall season, I thought it might be fun to learn the fascinating history, geography and science of a beloved holiday food in this unit study: cranberries! You will notice underlined words with hyperlinks to family friendly videos and websites to inspire further learning.

Pumpkin spice coffee, pumpkin scented candles, pumpkin desserts, and various gourd assortments flourish as cooler temperatures invade. Ah, pumpkin, nothing says autumn like pumpkin! Whether the abundance of pumpkin causes delight or dismay, our unit study this month will inform and entertain, and may help you fall more deeply in love with this beloved fruit.

The more our culture changes it has become quite apparent that as a society we have lost our sense of etiquette/manners. We must change this trend! It starts, of course, at home with our example and with the educating of our own children.

When you see a butterfly, how does it make you feel? Are you happy? Curious? Whether colorfully fluttering across the sky or resting upon a vibrant flower, butterflies bring joy and hope. Butterflies are thought to bring joy because they represent change, resurrection, and even new life. What is so special about the butterfly that fills us with hope and joy? Join me as we learn about this unique insect!

Much has been written to teach children the legacy of African American men and women. Today, however, we want to honor those whose impact was greatest during the tumultuous American Civil War. Often called the "War Between the States," the Civil War lasted 4 years, from 1861-1865. Surprisingly, the effects of this war may still be felt today. Follow the included links to child friendly videos and web sites to learn more.

“‘Penmanship is dying out!’ is a common lament of parents, educators, and even pencil salesmen.” Would it surprise you to learn that this quotation is from an interview in Time Magazine April 15, 1935? The 1940s and 50s seemingly confirmed the demise of handwriting, as parents held revolts against local school districts for phasing out cursive until the 1980s when an epidemic of illegibility was declared. Sound familiar? This January unit study is a celebration of the pen and penmanship!

Delighting families for 100 years, A. A. Milne’s Winnie-the-Pooh is a collection of charming stories about a lovable stuffed bear, a young boy, and their many friends! As children, and then again as parents introducing our own children, we went with Winnie to the “Hundred Acre Wood,” and we would be remiss to not take a unit study “Expotition” celebrating this classic children’s story—no matter your age. With childhood themes of cherished companions, memorable conversations, adventures, and melodic “hums” (or ditties), Milne provided endearing stories for the generations. Throughout this study, hyperlinks will lead you to family-friendly websites for enhanced learning.

During the early years of our homeschool journey, the weeks leading up to Christmas were filled with turmoil as I tried (and failed!) to do it all: School, Choir practice, Co-op parties, Church Christmas events, family holiday traditions, not to mention cleaning, shopping and cooking…oh my! The “to-do” list was endless! Trying to “do it all” drained our joy. As a family, we learned that time spent immersed in learning about the season brought a fresh perspective and peace to this busy time of year. In reflecting on my own family holiday memories to prepare this article, I was inspired to brainstorm and write the below brief one-day study on a traditional Christmas carol. 

Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on the many blessings we have experienced over the year. It is also a time that we set aside to teach our children the historical meaning behind this great day. In this unit study, I invite you to expand on the holiday with a hands-on exploration of favored holiday foods.