Articles by Deanne Crawford

Articles by Deanne Crawford

Hi! My name is Deanne Crawford.

I love homeschooling and am very grateful to have found a "post-homeschool" career that expands on that passion. Married to Manuel since 1989, we chose to homeschool in 1997 when our daughter, Amanda, was in first grade.

Our approach to homeschooling was very eclectic to meet our children’s unique learning needs. Blessed with very different children - a natural, gifted learner and a struggling learner on the spectrum, my homeschool philosophy focused on giving my children a love for learning and teaching them how to learn. If I had to classify my methodology, it could be summed up as “a modified Charlotte Mason, delight-directed approach" with a bit of Unit Study thrown in! Homeschooling has been a tremendous blessing to my family, and although it is not the easiest thing I have ever done, it has been my greatest accomplishment.

It is my joy to serve homeschool families as a curriculum/product consultant at Rainbow Resource Center! Whether reviewing catalogs for new products to equip homeschool families, evaluating curriculum, or writing and recording helpful videos and articles, it is my desire to provide you with the best information and options to help you meet your family’s goals.
The Rubik’s Cube: A Unit Study
July 13, 2024
Edited July 3, 2025

The Rubik’s Cube: A Unit Study

Ernő Rubik believed his invention, the Rubik's Cube, was more than a fidget or puzzle to solve. Join me on a fascinating journey behind the scenes of the wildly popular Rubik’s Cube in this mini unit study designed to inspire families to learn together!

Summer Schooling
June 12, 2024
Edited July 3, 2025

5 Summer Schooling Activities to Spice Up Your Break

While many find themselves enjoying the lazy days of summer, some of us find ourselves restless – in need of more direction. If this describes you, here are a few ideas to spice up your summer through fun and educational learning opportunities!

Pesky Plants or Valued Vegetation?
March 28, 2024
Edited July 3, 2025

Pesky Plants or Valued Vegetation: A Unit Study

March 28th celebrates weeds: those pesky plants that grow in the cracks of concrete, abundantly in our yards and even our flower or vegetable garden. What is their purpose? Is it only to annoy the average gardener and wreak havoc on the agriculture? Join us this month and learn a bit more about weeds.

Celebrate Robinson Crusoe
February 1, 2024
Edited July 3, 2025

Robinson Crusoe: A Unit Study

First published in London, England in 1719, the adventurous tale of Robinson Crusoe has stood the test of time as a literary classic. In today's unit study, we're setting aside time to celebrate the novel in honor of Robinson Crusoe Day on February 1st! 

Do You Kazoo?
January 28, 2024
Edited July 3, 2025

Do You Kazoo? A Unit Study

Kazoo: musical instrument or annoying children’s party favor? Love or hate it, the kazoo has had a fascinating history, remarkable staying power, and is fun for all ages. So, grab your kazoo and your kiddos and join me today for a fun, yet educational unit study, dedicated in honor of National Kazoo Day on January 28th.

Can You Resist the POP? A Bubble Wrap Unit Study
January 27, 2024
Edited July 3, 2025

Can You Resist the POP? A Bubble Wrap Unit Study

If you are like me, packages seemingly arrived every day as the holidays approached. Excitedly, I opened the boxes and tried to remember which gift was wrapped in the rolls of air-filled plastic bubbles. If you still have this delightful, pop-worthy plastic, grab a handful to share with your children! Let’s celebrate the irresistible, pop-able, BUBBLE WRAP®!

Candy Canes: A Unit Study
December 19, 2023
Edited July 3, 2025

Candy Canes: A Unit Study

Nothing says Christmas more than the iconic candy cane. This simple, delectable sugar stick is the number one non-chocolate candy sold between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day. What makes the candy cane so special that it is nationally celebrated on December 26th? Grab a peppermint stick and join me in our December unit study to celebrate America’s favorite peppermint candy!

The Little Drummer Boy
December 19, 2023
Edited October 13, 2025

The Little Drummer Boy: A Unit Study

As a family who loves to celebrate the Christmas season, we were excited when the sounds of Christmas filled the air. Whether meandering through the grocery story or hearing children sing loudly and joyfully through their lessons, the songs of Christmas excite our senses in ways no other music does. Welcome to our December Unit Study on The Little Drummer Boy! I invite you and your family to set aside time to savor facets of this simple song.

The Magic Of Christmas Snow Globes: A Unit Study
December 3, 2023
Edited July 3, 2025

The Magic Of Christmas Snow Globes: A Unit Study

Magical moments abound at Christmas time. Joy can be found in the wide, bright eyes of a child on Santa’s lap–or in the silence of the Holy Night or contemplative Advent readings. For centuries, one magic of Christmas has been found in the simple snow globe. Set aside time to learn about this simply magical child’s toy!

Holiday Cookies
December 2, 2023
Edited July 3, 2025

Holiday Cookies: A Unit Study

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!