Looking for a meaningful way to combine math and art in your homeschool? Positive negative symmetry art is the perfect project! This hands-on activity introduces important concepts like symmetry, spatial awareness, and the artistic principles of positive and negative space—all in one simple lesson. It’s a fantastic example of how living math can bring abstract…
Eli and I have just begun our history studies for the year, and I’m very glad to report that I might have another history lover on my hands! This ancient history art project is definitely motivating. This post contains affiliate links. Oh, how I have missed Story of the World. It’s just such a well-rounded program. The…
Research and anecdotal evidence have repeatedly proven that creativity is as vital a trait as resilience or wit. Creativity can often be considered a skill, but it’s such a broad concept that it’s difficult to explain just how to practice it. This list of art and handicraft gifts will help! Creativity can be applied to…
I have always loved teaching a Leonardo da Vinci unit study. It quickly covers almost every academic subject, from the Renaissance to various science topics like inventions, simple machines, and the human body. History, science, and art combine with research-based learning and good books for a fabulous learning adventure! Leonardo da Vinci Unit Study Taking…
Imagine an activity where your child explores creativity, practices art, and enjoys nature—without fear of mistakes. That’s the magic of how nature journaling builds artistic skills in a fun, pressure-free way! This simple practice blends observation, creativity, and self-expression in a relaxed and fun way. Whether your child loves art or feels unsure, nature journaling…
I’m excited to share these free winter play dough mats with you! They can help elementary students learn nature study observation skills through hands-on play. You might think play-based learning is mainly for the preschool crowd, but playing in the elementary years still has plenty of benefits. Learning through play is more important than you…
Art and living math make a fantastic duo. Anytime you combine the creativity of art with the logical side of nature, you’ve got a powerful activity connecting both sides of the brain for meaningful learning. This particular lesson combines art and math through a fun project inspired by the famous abstract artist Wassily Kandinsky. This…
I am so excited to share this unique nature study freebie with you! You’ll love using autumn play dough mats in your elementary homeschool for all sorts of meaningful fun and learning. Play dough mats provide various benefits. At the most basic level, molding and sculpting dough helps to exercise fine motor skills. This is…
Please welcome Jen Vail, a regular feature writer here at Our Journey Westward! She’s here to encourage you that the homeschool extras matter – for your children AND YOU. If you enjoy the blog post, let her know in the comments! I have a confession to make: I do not homeschool all of my children….
Having a home full of the best art supplies for kids will help foster your children’s ability to express themselves. Art keeps them busy doing something far more constructive than using electronics or watching TV. And that comes in handy… especially during the winter months. Being cooped up inside can make everyone go a little…
It’s a good idea for every child to know basic art fundamentals. Whether you have a really “artsy” child or one who prefers reading or math, having them learn about art can be beneficial. It’s always good to push kiddos to try new things. Who knows, maybe after learning some fundamentals, they may fall in…
In our home, summer break has always been an opportunity for more reading rather than less. With the obligations of regular school lessons on hold for a while, we often get lost in a stack of picture books or chapter after chapter from a current read-aloud (or two). There are lots of components to summer…