Active Learning

We do a lot of active learning around here, both because the kids don't sit still and its fun! Here are some of our recent hands-on learning.

We read a magazine article in Kids World News (a great resource that brings current events down to kid level and Biblical perspective) about Cash for Clunkers and gasoline and alternative fuels. Sam got out his remote control car and had to drive it all over the house to letters I laid out. He then had to name the letter and sound. Eli had to be corralled during this b/c he was like Godzilla attacking the car!

On Columbus Day (a little late, I know) we read about him, emphasizing that he felt he was a missionary. We also read a few of his prayers from his journal and the prayer they prayed at land. Then we got out a pan of water, three boats, and straws. Sam and Cora blew the boats all around. Again, Eli had to be taken elsewhere before an Eli hurricane drowned the Nine, Pinta, and Santa Maria.

The kids have been interested lately in cowboys and indians (yes, we are politically incorrect at this time). We got library books and read fiction and non-fiction stories. Then Sam chose to be an Indian for Halloween. We made his vest from scrap leather (one for Eli too). Then Sam went to the chicken house to pick out the nicest feathers for a headdress. A little paint on the face, and he was ready to go! He was very proud to make his costume. Cora, of course, was a cowgirl!

Each year we pack a shoe box for Operation Christmas child, and this year Sam helped. He and I shopped for items for another little boy, and everyone knows that is hard for a 5 year old!We counted the items, and made sure we included a little of everything. We watched videos showing how the boxes go all over the world. And we will pray for the child receiving our box until Christmas. Hopefully, through email they will let us know what country our box goes to also.

Homeschooling is such a blessing! Last week at our home school meeting someone said that the room full of families was a testament to many answered prayers. I had forgotten that for many years I prayed that we would be able to homeschool. God indeed answered my prayer, and I want to thank Him for it often.