Winter

Considered one of the most recorded Christmas songs of all time, the story of The Twelve Days of Christmas is quite an interesting one. Often regarded as a cumulative song, The Twelve Days of Christmas is written so that each verse builds on the previous verses. Cumulative songs are excellent teaching tools for children as they sharpen memory and sequencing skills, increase attention span, and lay a foundation for early language skills and vocabulary. Let's learn more about this song in today's unit study!

If you ask a young child what the Christmas season is all about, you probably won’t hear them say spelling or history or extra homework. Most kids would be happy to skip schoolwork altogether once December rolls around. According to my kids, any and all “school” has a way of crushing the Christmas spirit. How can we have any fun if we have to do math?? But even if you do put your formal lessons aside, that doesn’t mean there still isn’t learning going on, even if it looks different from your usual routine. 

With the holiday season fast approaching, we look forward to a break from our typical busy routines, and to time spent together with family and friends. Hopefully this means MORE cozy mornings and LESS rushed evenings. More time around the table or fireplace – steeped in conversation or playing games together. Sounds perfect, doesn’t it? But somehow it feels like you just “blink” on Thanksgiving, and suddenly – it’s the middle of January! A little planning now can help us make the most of the time – nurturing relationships, creating memories, and all the while, boosting brain skills! 

Family traditions at Christmas are important because they create lasting memories, strengthen bonds, and provide a sense of stability and belonging. They bring us together, allowing for shared experiences and deeper connections with our loved ones. When it comes to making memories, there are truly so many options! Let me share with you some Christmas traditions from my own family, as well as some ideas for yours.

Homeschooling during the holidays doesn’t need to be stressful. It can be a joyful time if you adapt your schedule and mindset to focus on making wonderful memories while still learning. Putting in a little thought ahead of time will save you from feeling overwhelmed so you can still have productive school time while also enjoying the magic of the holidays. With careful planning and a healthy mindset, you can enjoy this special time of year without all the stress. 

It’s that festive time of year again! This has always been my favorite time of year. When I look back at my childhood, my fondest memories were the fun traditions my family made together during the holidays.  Children find comfort and bonding in these traditions and it generates a special joy around the home. Now my kids are all grown up but they still enjoy the traditions we made together and really look forward to the holidays.  I believe it is because we come together as a family unit, enjoy fun activities together, and most of all look outside ourselves. I would like to share some ideas as well as some of our favorite traditions my family began years ago!

No matter what winter looks like for you, at this point in the school year, you may be feeling a little dry and spent and in need of hibernation—or you may be experiencing cabin fever! And you know what? That’s okay! Let's talk about some fun activities and projects you can do to make some fun memories during this winter season.

Many people consider it to be the perfect food, blending all the food groups. But it also has a reputation for being a diet buster because of the salt and fat content. Pizza is beloved by people across the world for its versatility and low-cost preparation. After all, where else can you feed a family of 6 for under $50?Without further ado, gather your children and celebrate National Pizza Day (February 9th) by learning a little more about the wildy popular food and finish the day creating a pie together through one of included recipe links.

Inspired by the dedication of scientists from over 150 years ago, Chemistry teacher Dr. David Steineker has created a day on February 7th to celebrate one of science’s most recognizable icons: the Periodic Table of Elements. I invite you and your children to join me this month in celebration of the this remarkable scientific achievement!

As winter descends, most children and even adults eagerly anticipate the first snow fall. While snow is not common across the US, research shows that every state experiences snow. What is so unique about this majestic moisture that fascinates and delights us? While our unit study will be more science focused compared to others we’ve done, my hope is that learners of all ages will discover something new!