W E L C O M E T O
The Power of Play: Harnessing Games for Learning in Homeschool Environments
The benefits of incorporating games into learning are vast and varied. Cognitive development is notably enhanced through games that challenge memory, strategy, and problem-solving skills. Furthermore, games often require communication and collaboration, providing children with valuable lessons in teamwork, empathy, and dealing with both winning and losing gracefully. These social skills, developed in the context of play, are critical for personal growth and success beyond the homeschool environment.
Celebrating Earth Day: Easy, Impactful Activities for Every Homeschool
With Earth Day around the corner on April 22nd, I'm reminded once again of the importance of teaching our children about the beauty and fragility of our planet. As a homeschool mom, I understand the challenge of fitting in full unit studies for every holiday or special occasion. That's why I'm all about streamlining these learning opportunities—minimal effort, maximum impact.
Using State Standards as a Homeschool Guide
Incorporating state standards into your homeschool doesn't mean sacrificing the uniqueness of your educational path. Instead, it means enriching your child's learning with a broad base, then expanding beyond it in ways that ignite their passion, creativity, and critical thinking. With the flexibility of homeschooling, you can use state standards not as a strict checklist, but as a framework to ensure your child's education is comprehensive and well-rounded, all while keeping their individual needs and interests at the forefront.
The Self-Guided Homeschool Curriculum: Fostering Independence in Learning
A self-guided homeschool curriculum is a powerful way to equip your child with the tools they need to succeed in an ever-changing world. By providing the right balance of freedom and support, you can help your child build a strong foundation of knowledge, skills, and confidence that will serve them for years to come.
Embracing Spring: 10 Simple Art Activities for Homeschoolers
These ten simple spring art activities are designed to inspire creativity, teach new skills, and appreciate the natural world. Remember, the process is just as important as the product, so encourage your children to express themselves freely and enjoy the act of creation.
Embracing "Me Too" Moments: Cultivating Self-Care in a Homeschooling World
My Journey to Guide Dot Art: Striking the Perfect Balance in Homeschool Art Education
Guide Dot Art has been more than just an addition to our art curriculum; it has become a testament to the core values of homeschooling—flexibility, creativity, and the pursuit of personalized education.
The Cornerstone of Literacy: Emphasizing Spelling in Early Education
Understanding the intricacies of spelling goes beyond memorizing letter sequences; it's about connecting sounds with symbols and unlocking the code of language. This skill is crucial for developing fluency in reading, enhancing writing clarity, and fostering a deeper comprehension of text. It serves as the scaffolding upon which children can build their language skills, enabling them to decode new words, articulate thoughts, and engage with diverse forms of literature.
The Magic of Morning Baskets: Transforming the Start of Your Homeschool Day
Morning baskets weave together various strands of learning into a cohesive, engaging experience that caters to the diverse interests and learning styles within a family. Here's why they are an invaluable addition to your homeschooling routine:
Making the Non-Toxic Choice: Why Caraway Pans Have Stolen My Heart
In a world increasingly aware of the hidden dangers in our daily lives, discovering Caraway pans was like a breath of fresh air. The thought of traditional non-stick cookware releasing harmful toxic fumes when overheated was a concern I could no longer overlook. Caraway's solution, with their ceramic coating free from PTFE, PFOA, lead, and cadmium, offered the safe alternative I was searching for. Cooking with these pans means I can prepare meals with a clear conscience, knowing I'm not compromising my family's health.
The Power of a Book Tracker for Kids: Cultivating Lifelong Readers
A book tracker is more than just a list of titles read; it's a comprehensive tool that offers a multitude of benefits for young readers. Here's why incorporating a book tracker into your child's reading routine can be a game-changer:
Celebrating Pi Day: A Homeschooling Adventure of Joy and Learning
In a traditional school setting, celebrations are often limited to specific hours, usually within the school day. But when you're homeschooling, the entire day is your canvas, ready to be painted with the colors of learning and joy. Pi Day becomes more than just a brief classroom activity; it's an all-day event that weaves together the beauty of mathematics with the art of living. From the moment we wake up to the time we lay our heads to rest, every minute is an opportunity to explore, learn, and celebrate in ways that resonate with our family's values and interests.
Gaining Independence through Morning Routines: Keys to a Joyful Start
Understanding that each child's needs and capabilities evolve with age, I’ve created a special freebie to guide you in developing an effective morning routine. MY age-by-age recommendation checklist offers practical suggestions tailored to different developmental stages, ensuring that your morning routine grows with your child. Additionally, our open-ended list allows for customization, making it easy to adapt the routine to your child's unique interests and needs.
Finding Peace in Your Day with Pranamat: A Homeschool Mom’s Guide to Balance
Pranamat is an innovative acupressure mat designed to promote relaxation, alleviate stress, and enhance overall well-being. Its unique design, featuring lotus-shaped massage points, stimulates key areas of the body to release tension, improve circulation, and boost energy levels. Integrating Pranamat into your daily routine can be a game-changer, especially for those of us juggling the dual roles of educator and parent.
The Grand Opening of "With Love, From Homebuilt": A New Chapter in Our Homeschooling Journey
A Memorable Moment with Ginny Yurich on The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast
Ginny, perhaps the funniest mama I've ever met, and I first crossed paths at the Wild and Free conference. Sharing the stage with her was an experience in itself, but it was the impromptu TikTok dance session with her and Sally Clarkson that truly sealed the deal on this memorable encounter!
Don’t miss my interview on Brave Writer Podcast
Julie and Melissa's questions were thought-provoking, leading us to discussions that I believe many in our community will find both relatable and inspiring. I'm excited for you to hear our conversation and to continue these discussions with you all. The podcast episode is a snapshot of the larger dialogue we're all part of in this beautiful homeschooling journey.
HOMESTEAD SUMMIT 2024
This year, the summit is structured over four enriching days, each focusing on different aspects of homesteading and homeschooling. It's an opportunity for us all to deepen our understanding, expand our skills, and connect with others on similar paths.
Embracing Homeschooling: A Personal Journey
My decision to homeschool wasn't made lightly. It stemmed from a realization that the conventional education system, while effective for many, couldn't cater to the unique needs, pace, and interests of every child
Interland: Kids Internet Safety Lessons in a Fun and Engaging Way
Interland is an adventure-packed online game that makes learning about internet safety interactive and enjoyable. The game is set in a virtual world composed of four islands, each focusing on a different aspect of internet safety.
