This isn’t an ad, a paid review, or anything related. My 6yo just finished a free two-week trial of Smartick Math, and we decided it isn’t the program for us. Recently, at least in the circles I frequent, there’s been a buzz about Smartick Math – how kids ask to do math, don’t complain, stealth…
Category: homeschooling
Rationing Learning – there CAN be too much of a good thing!
Sometime around when he turned five, we got to the point that he could handle higher level non-fiction texts. The problem was that he could actually “overload” on new information. His brain couldn’t process and synthesize that much at the same time, and so, like an overworked CPU on a computer, we started having issues. More frequent meltdowns, the inability to make eye contact, regression in social awareness and interactions.
Backwardschooling
We live in a state that has relatively strict homeschool reporting requirements, including a comprehensive year-long plan due in the summer before the upcoming school year, with plans and curriculum for each of the required subjects. While I’m diligently completing this requirement to convince the district that we take home education for our six year…
Playsilks
A couple years ago, my then 4yo and I embarked on a playsilks experiment. I tend to get a crafty idea, make a bunch of them, get tired of it, and move on. (Afghans, mei tai baby carriers, felt Christmas trees, car seat canopies, I’m looking at you!) The playsilks were a similar project. We…
A Simple Chromatography Experiment
I’m a sucker for simple experiments with common household items and dramatic results, and my 6 year old is currently in love with colors. The other day, he didn’t ask his cousin what her favorite color is. He asked what her favorite color group is (primary, secondary, or tertiary – spoiler alert: he likes the…
The Art of Pairing
Some time in the last year, I came across the term “strewing”. It refers to strategically placing toys and educational items to be “discovered” by your children. https://adventuresinteachingmyown.com/2016/06/24/the-art-of-strewing-an-unschooling-moms-secret-weapon/ – here’s a pretty good overview. I was intrigued. I’ve done a certain amount of this over the years, but I never knew it had a name. …
Wonderschooling 