The following post is from Jennifer, a lifelong educator: Traditions communicate significance and can greatly impact a child's view of the upcoming school year. Since a positive attitude is so critical to learning, it’s important that students begin the year with healthy anticipation. Your encouragement and input can make all the difference in your family. To…
It's hard to believe it's back-to-school time already, but schools in our area start back in less than three weeks! (Those of you that still have a month or more of summer might want to bookmark this post for later.) We'll be sharing back-to-school tips and ideas in the coming weeks, and to kick us…
The following post is from Jason & Jennifer Bruce of New Season Design: Summer is in full-swing at our house! You'd think that the summer break from our school routine would have our eight-year-old daughter in relaxation mode. Instead, I noticed that she was antsy, not sure of what to do with herself during the day.…
The following post is from Kristina of Toddler Approved: As a parent, there really isn't a start or end to when we can create learning time with our kids. We can find ways to help our kids learn new skills (or review old ones) through the simplest tasks or activities. I love to find ways…
The following post is from Jennifer, a lifelong educator: See all of the Homework Helps posts here. I can hear it now…"A schedule?!? But, Mom, it’s summer!" Most kids aren’t overjoyed about doing school work during vacation, but if you set up a routine that works around their anticipated play times, you’ll encourage cooperation and help your…
The following post is from Jennifer, a lifelong educator: Most students are in countdown mode: they know exactly how many days are left until summer. Children and teens everywhere envision sleeping in, lazing by the pool, and playing with friends. All of those things are appropriate – when balanced with the realities of responsibility. What…
The following post is from Angie of Many Little Blessings: Although some homeschoolers do year round school, most homeschoolers are gearing up for a full or partial summer vacation in the next month. This offers homeschool parents a great opportunity to regroup and get ready for next school year. With just a few steps, you…
The following post is from Kacey of Next Level Mama: These days, there's no shortage of distractions to keep our children occupied -- video games, social media, TV, computers, smart phones, sports leagues, and on and on. However, with benefits like increased vocabulary, improved writing skills and creativity, it's also important to make sure reading stays at…
The following post is from Jennifer, a lifelong educator: When you haven’t seen your kids all day, it’s important to arrive home in a good mood so you can more easily reconnect with your family. The way you feel when you walk in the door can help you set a positive tone that carries into the evening, thus…
The following post is from Angie of Many Little Blessings: While poetry can be a wonderful addition to your language arts and reading studies all year long, April is especially perfect since it is National Poetry Month. If you're not sure where to start with poetry, one of these activities might be a perfect addition…