In the United States, National Hispanic Heritage month is celebrated September 15-October 15. I encourage you, over the next few weeks, to introduce your children to the importance of this celebration, the culture and food of the Hispanic culture, and take time to meet important Hispanic men and women who have made an impact on the United States and the world!
Thirty years ago, President Bill Clinton declared, “Classical music is a celebration of artistic excellence… Whether in new American works or in the masterpieces of the great composers of old, music is a unifying force in our world, bringing people together across vast cultural and geographical divisions. Classical music speaks both to the mind and to the heart, giving us something to think about as well as to experience.” Whether a treasured family experience or something you only know about from commercials or movies, there is always a new discovery waiting when you explore the world of classical music.
“My Very Educated Mother Just Served Us Nine Pizzas” or did she? Parents today learned this clever mnemonic to learn the order of the planets. That is, until 2006, when suddenly Pluto lost planet status. Like many in my generation, I struggled to accept this drastic change. Whether you accept the International Astronomical Unit’s decision or not, science’s understanding of planets has changed since 1930. Let’s explore the fascinating story of Pluto’s planetary problem!
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!
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.
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!
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.
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®!
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!
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.
Remember that beautiful homeschool plan you made in August? The carefully chosen curriculum, the schedule that looked completely doable, and the vision of everyone happily getting their work done each day? And then the school year started. In August, we make plans based on what we think our...
You made an important decision to homeschool your children, and with it comes a lot of changes. Walking away from the rhythm and structure of the school day might leave you a little overwhelmed. But take heart, even though there are big changes, the blessings will be plentiful! Many years ago, my...
Reading aloud equips your children with a personal toolbox they’ll use throughout their lives as readers, learners and communicators. In our busy and demanding home school lives, though, making time for this activity can be a challenge. In Part 1, we discussed the Why of reading aloud to all ages....
Snuggle up before bedtime, pull out a picture book, and read to your preschooler. Many families read to their children in the early years. They know that reading aloud plays a significant role in a preschool child’s thinking and language development. Reading aloud to preschoolers increases their...
Lesson plans done. School books organized and tucked neatly on the shelf. Pencils sharpened. Meals planned. Laundry caught up. The conditions are PERFECT for back to (home)school! In my mind, I can see your total look of despair and eye rolling. That’s ok! Looking back on 15 years of homeschooling,...