Fine Arts Tuesday Week 2

Posted by Cindy on September 1, 2008

Tuesdays are such a sweet treat!  Nature study, artist study, art projects, composer study, tea time and an afternoon club are making for full and fun days.

Last week’s nature study turned out to be working cattle in the barn with dad.  I had planned on a nice walk to observe trees and their lines, but cows needed tending, so cows they did study!

Afterwards, we continued our study of Pachelbel by listening to a new composition called “Chaconne“.  I found it interesting that the music brought out different emotions in each of us.  I had the kids lay in the floor with their eyes closed as we listened.  When it was over, one of us thought the music was sad, another thought it was contemplative and another thought it was worrisome.  Either way, it was a very moving piece.

We also continued our study of Manet through several of his pictures found here.  We talked about the criticism he receives for being a “flat” artist and how many of his works stray from the typical outdoor nature scenes of other artists labeled as Impressionists.

The Fifer

Then, it was off to the porch for some quick tree observation, noticing lines in trees.  With watercolors in hand, the kids were asked to paint a tree Impressionist-style.

The afternoon found us at a local church for fun and games with a parachute.  What kid doesn’t need to experience parachute fun at least once??  Thanks, Mrs. Lisa!

Have A Field Day!

Posted by Cindy on May 23, 2007

Remember Field Day back in high school? (For me, it was a great day to get out of class! But I digress already.) Whether you belong to a large or small homeschool group, have just a few homeschooling friends, or even just want to try some games with your own children – Field Day can bring a lot of fun and excitement into a day of P.E. class!!

I’m lucky to belong to a fairly large homeschool group that does a Field Day every year. We have games, races, snacks and even ribbons! Here’s a picture of one of mine in action this year.

With a large group, we split the children into age groups and have events like:

Tug-of-war

Three-legged race

50 yard dash

Softball throw

Obstacle course

Sack race

Long Jump

We usually have a popcorn machine or cotton candy maker and lots of popsicles to make the day extra special. Ribbons are handed out at a mini awards ceremony. Of course, this sort of big-scale event costs a bit of money. I think each family usually contributes $3.00 to $5.00.

I’m also part of a very small group of homeschoolers that wants to put together a field day this year. Plans are in progress and we’re going to have a blast, even with only 6-8 children! With a smaller group, we’re going to be able to do some messier games like:

Wet sponge relay

Frisbee slime relay

Water balloon toss

Egg toss

Skittles in the spoon relay

We’ll probably add a few of the “regular” field day event listed above, too.

This smaller field day probably won’t include real ribbons. We’ll all bring our own drinks and snacks. And the competition won’t be nearly as fierce. But, boy does it sound like fun!

Either way you go – big or small – have a Field Day with your children. Memories will be made, so don’t forget the camera!

Related Tags: homeschool, field day, games, physical education, fun