Tackling a Civil War unit study with kids can feel overwhelming, but it’s also an incredible opportunity to discover one of the most pivotal times in American history. When my children and I explored the Civil War and the complex topic of slavery, I wanted more than just dates and battles. I wanted them to…
World geography projects are a fantastic way to make learning meaningful, hands-on, and engaging for homeschool students. Instead of simply memorizing maps and facts, children deeply understand different countries’ cultures, histories, and geography, making personal connections along the way. When students research, write, and present their findings, they develop critical thinking, communication, and creativity—all while…
Do you have more than one child? How about gifted kids? Perhaps struggling learners? Do you have active children? Is hands-on learning a preference? Do your children love to get lost in certain topics? Could they take more ownership of their work? Would you love for them to really “get” what they’re learning? Do you want to teach all of your children the…
My children don’t typically jump for joy when given a writing assignment. Do yours? I’ve found several ways over the years to take writing from dreaded to enjoyable in our home, though. One of the most beloved of those ideas is writing newsletters. Several years ago, I wrote the monthly newsletter for our church. I…
I’ve been telling you forever about the difference project-based learning has made in our homeschool. It’s made such a difference, I even included an entire chapter on the subject in Homeschooling Gifted and Advanced Learners! I’ve given you project ideas in the past, but I thought it was high time to dive a little deeper…
Thank you to everyone for such kind comments about this series! We’re on a roll and today I’m just going to dive right into more project ideas – this time, using simple pieces of paper. Yep, paper and a few art supplies can go a l-o-n-g way. Grab a few very basic supplies and get…
Our kids eventually have to function in real life without our daily direction and help, right? To make the transition easier, allow your children to be involved in real life projects that involve situations to solve real life problems. The life preparation is fantastic, but I’ve found the motivation to actually complete such projects just as rewarding….
Handicrafts are such an important part of a rounded education because they teach real life skills that can be helpful in everyday life. Grab some ideas for handicraft projects that can also double as project-based learning in your homeschool! What are Handicrafts? Quite simply, handicrafts are things you make with your hands. I’ve written a…
Welcome back to the second week of Practical Project-Based Learning! Today’s topic: Long Term Project Ideas. A long term project, although similar to real-life projects, would be considered something that takes at least three weeks to complete. Because of the time investment, though, real-life skills are inevitably included. This means real-life projects and long-term projects…
Show what you know projects have been super motivating for my children. Why? With these projects, my kiddos pretty much get a few simple guidelines then have free reign to put together whatever type of project and/or presentation they want…as long as they SHOW WHAT THEY KNOW and show it thoroughly and knowledgeably. How Show…
Project-based learning goes with any subject at just about any time. Really. Since nature study is so near and dear to my heart, I’ll take a little time today to show you how to take a regular ol’ walk and turn it into project-based learning. Note: Charlotte Mason homeschoolers, turning a nature walk into PBL…
Does PBL seem overwhelming? You want to do it, but have no idea what projects you might ask your children to do? Never fear, I have a huge project list for you! Advice: Let your children be in on choosing the projects as often as possible. Since the project is supposed to be “theirs” anyway,…