I love unit studies, and autumn is one of the very best times for fun, nature-based science. By September, apple orchards are bursting with ripe fruit, and it just happens to be the birthday month of Johnny Appleseed! That makes it the perfect season for an apple unit study that your entire family can enjoy….
There is not one teaching resource I treasure more than children’s literature. The good ones have such a masterful knack for presenting factual information amidst incredible storylines. The illustrations, of course, help children put pictures to names, places, and ideas. This list of picture books for nature study is perfect for exploring science topics. When…
These living chapter books for nature study capture the attention of readers with wonderful tales that beautifully weave a storyline and nature together! From harrowing adventures to hidden gardens, many of these timeless stories have been well-loved for years. They also happen to subtly encourage a love for nature and make perfect read-alone or read-aloud…
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…
I love using living books to help children “see” math. These math operations picture books specifically focus on addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division to help build understanding and connect math to the real world. Books are powerful in helping children relate to abstract mathematical concepts! They can be used as pre-reading before introducing something new…
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…
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…
Beautifully written and illustrated picture books are the perfect inspiration for nature study! In this episode of the No Sweat Nature Study Podcast, we explore “Barbara Cooney nature study” while learning a little about the biography of this famous author and illustrator of beloved children’s books. If you’re looking for a fun way to combine…
Time and money picture books are invaluable to teach complex math concepts to children. These fun books will keep everyone inspired to learn! Did you know that time and money are forms of measurement? Yes! The minutes and hours that tick by on a clock are a standard way to measure time, as are the…
You’ll love reading winter working animal books for a new spin on winter-themed reading in your homeschool. Plus, the topic adds a unique layer of science to reading time. Not to mention, several books are inspired by true stories, too! I love pulling together stacks of themed books for my children. Whether for seasonal fun…
Winter homeschooling can feel long, especially with restless kids and the slower daily rhythm. But it doesn’t have to be that way! With some creativity, winter can become a season full of engaging and vibrant learning opportunities. In this post, I’ve gathered some of my favorite winter learning ideas to inspire your homeschool days. These…
Any time is a good time to read a fantastic picture book, but when that book serves double duty as an educational tool, it’s truly a “keeper.” The character building picture books listed below are definitely keepers. We know that good character is best taught through example, right? The saying goes that way more is…