Free Homeschool Lessons: Neighborhood Knowledge

© Lyn Lomasi; Owner/Shaman/Master Creator at Intent-sive N8R & Brand Shamans Content Community LLC 

Does your child know his neighborhood well? Not just the street you live on, but knowledge of the entire neighborhood is important. If your child ever gets lost, he should know how to get home. Neighborhood knowledge is essential for kids of all ages, but is usually taught in Kindergarten. Use this free homeschool lesson to teach your child all about his neighborhood.

 

Teach your child his address. This and the phone number are extremely important for your child to know. Not only is it the first step in learning about the neighborhood, but it will also be helpful if your child ever gets lost. I like to use songs to teach the kids their address. Make up a catchy tune that goes along well with the sound of your home address. Sing it to your child and have him sing along too. Also have your child practice writing down the address on paper.

Take walks often. This is a simple, but useful way of teaching your child about the neighborhood. Getting around by foot and by car are two different things. Your child can become more familiar with the area, including parts that can only be seen by walking. This provides a good visual for map-making and studying. Don't forget to collect things from nature on the walk that you can use in other school projects.

Show them where the police and fire stations are located. Your child needs to learn where these important destinations are located. Even if your child is young, there may be a time when he needs the information. A child may get lost, kidnapped, or have another emergency. Knowing where these are located can help him in many situations.

Make a simple map. Draw a simple map of your neighborhood, making sure to include your house, anything surrounding it, and any landmarks, such as a fire station, library, museum, and stores. Have your child study the map. You can point out certain things as well as have him point out certain things to you. Talk about how to get to each place and have him tell you directions as well. Let the child make his own map after the above activities.

Use home, stores, and trusted neighbors as safe havens. Talk to your child about strangers and where they can go if they are in danger. Young children should always be with an adult. But emergencies can happen and they need to know what to do. Talk to your child about specific scenarios and locations and give them a breakdown about which places are safe to go in each situation. For instance, while the home is generally a safe haven, if there's an emergency and you are injured or cannot help, there should be a trusted nearby neighbor, store, or police station the child can go to.

I originally published this at Heart 'N Mind Homeschool: https://www.brandshamans.com/heart_mind_homeschool/free-homeschool-lessons-neighborhood-knowledge

 

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Homeschool Myths: Working Or Single Parents Can't Educate Their Kids At Home

© Lyn Lomasi; Owner/Shaman/Master Creator at Intent-sive N8R & Brand Shamans Content Community LLC

 As a veteran homeschool mom, I have been asked pretty much every question in the book about educating kids at home. One thing that comes up often is the subject of work. Can working parents or single parents successfully educate their kids from home?

Is Homeschool Even An Option For Working And Single Parents?

The first reaction for many might be "No way!" However, that answer can be quite inaccurate. It's definitely possible to operate a home school even when parents or guardians have full time jobs. It's even possible for single parents, who may have to hold down two jobs. There are many options that could allow for this.

Some working parents may hire a homeschool tutor or work from home. Others might assign their kids schoolwork and just have another adult supervise to make sure they get it done. Another method is to make time for schooling around the work schedule. That's one of the benefits of homeschooling. You can do it at any time of the day necessary and in any method that works for all involved.

Is It Better for Homeschool Parents To Stay Home With the Kids Or Work?

This question is very broad because the answer will depend on who you ask. There is no right or wrong way that covers everyone, so there is no better or worse option. Just like any other method that you consider, think about what's best for the students and the situation combined. Parents who stay home are not better than those who don't and vice versa. The most important factor is that the kids are learning. If education is going on AND it's working, then you've made the right choice.

Should Working Parents Educate Their Kids At Home?

The bottom line is that while it’s possible and works for some, whether a family should choose this option actually depends on the family and many other factors. Just like choosing other educational options, the success rate of this happening does not depend on the method, but on whether the method is a good fit for each student and each family.

How Can I Tell If This is a Good Choice For Me?

Can your children work well independently? If so, are they of age to do so on their own? If they require adult supervision due to age or maturity levels, is there a trusted adult available during your work schedule? If the above does not work, is there enough time for the children to study after you get off work? These and other factors will help you determine if this is the right homeschool method for your family or not.

More Homeschool Myths

 

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5 Free and Easy Counting Games for Preschoolers

 

© Lyn Lomasi; Owner/Shaman/Master Creator at Intent-sive N8R & Brand Shamans Content Community LLC 

Counting is a fundamental skill for preschoolers, and it can be a delightful experience! As a dedicated mom and homeschool teacher, I've discovered playful and effective ways to teach counting that go beyond traditional methods. Here are my top 5 counting games that are not only simple but also a hit with the little ones.

1. "Bring Me This Many!" - Interactive Counting Fun:

Transform everyday moments into counting adventures. Ask your preschooler to bring a specific number of items, like "10 yellow blocks." If the count is off, gently guide them to the correct number. This game can be woven into daily activities, making counting a natural and enjoyable part of your child's day.

2. Counting Words In Sentences - Merging Reading With Numbers:

For kids who have mastered object counting, try counting words in sentences. This activity enhances reading comprehension and counting skills simultaneously. By identifying the number of words from capital to period, children also learn sentence structure.

3. "Tap To My Beat" - Rhythm And Counting Combined:

Use music to teach counting. With a pencil or drumstick, have your child tap along to a song, counting the beats. This not only introduces rhythm and music but also embeds counting skills in an exciting and dynamic way.

4. "Penny Toss" - Coordination and Counting:

Repurpose an old egg carton for this engaging game. Number the slots and have your child toss pennies into them, counting as they go. This game enhances hand-eye coordination, number recognition, and counting skills, all while having a blast.

5. "Red Cars Speed On By!" - Observational Counting Game:

Turn car-watching into a fun counting activity. Ask questions like "How many blue cars pass before the light turns red?" This game is versatile, perfect for homeschool settings or as a playful activity during commutes.

Conclusion: These 5 simple and engaging counting games for preschoolers are perfect for making learning numbers a fun and integral part of everyday life. With these activities, counting becomes an adventure, not a chore.

Try these games with your little ones and share your fun counting moments with us!

LAST UPDATED:  10/27/2023

 

I  originally published this at Heart 'N Mind Homeschool: https://www.brandshamans.com/heart_mind_homeschool/5-free-and-easy-counting-games-for-preschoolers 

 

 

 

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Adventurous Learning Inspires Kids

© Lyn Lomasi; Owner/Shaman/Master Creator at Intent-sive N8R & Brand Shamans Content Community LLC

Having trouble teaching your kids vital skills? Try going on an adventure. When homeschooling my kids, I use many methods for getting them inspired to learn. One very useful one is to turn learning into an adventure.

When kids are struggling in certain subjects -- or just learning new concepts -- their confidence can be low in those areas. Sometimes traditional forms of teaching those skills can be downright frustrating and defeating.

Build your child's confidence by finding things to do around your neighborhood that are related to the lesson at hand. Child struggling with counting? Go see a juggler and help him count the tossed items. No juggler in your area? Visit the local pond and count the ducks.

When two of my kids were having trouble counting money, I took them on several fun adventures where they could practice using it. There were normal locations, such as the grocery store. But I also threw in things like area festivals. I let the kids purchase souvenirs and treats. They considered this to be fun. Therefore, they were inspired to learn the lesson over and over.

Sometimes just getting out and doing things without a paper and pencil can help your child connect the dots. On top of that, it doesn't seem like work. In fact, you should be letting your child have fun during the adventure as well. Don't make it all about the lesson. Just fit it in during the right moments.

Once your child realizes that he is doing the lesson he thought wasn't possible, he will likely be inspired to do more and more.

Furthermore, these adventures provide an excellent opportunity for experiential learning. For instance, a visit to a local museum can bring history to life, making it far more engaging than reading about it in a textbook. Similarly, a trip to a science center can spark interest in physics or biology through interactive exhibits. These experiences help children understand that learning isn't confined to books or classrooms – it's all around them.

Encourage your child to ask questions and explore their surroundings. This curiosity will lead them to discover new interests and passions. It's not just about memorizing facts; it's about understanding the world and their place in it.

Lastly, remember that each child learns differently. What works for one might not work for another. Be patient, and don’t hesitate to try different approaches until you find what resonates with your child. By making learning an adventure, you're not only teaching them valuable lessons but also instilling a lifelong love for learning. And that is the greatest adventure of all.

 

 

 

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Counting Made Fun: Free Activities for Toddlers and Preschoolers

© Lyn Lomasi; Owner/Shaman/Master Creator at Intent-sive N8R & Brand Shamans Content Community LLC 

Welcome to a world of numbers made fun! If you're a parent looking to introduce your toddler or preschooler to the joy of counting, you're in the right place. We've crafted a delightful journey filled with free, engaging, and easy-to-follow counting activities. Let's make those early learning moments count!

Why Counting is Crucial in Early Education:

Before diving into activities, let's explore why counting is so essential. It's not just about numbers; it's about building a foundation for problem-solving, understanding quantity, and developing early math skills. These counting activities are designed to be more than just learning; they’re about creating joyful memories with your little ones.

1. Counting with Everyday Objects:

Start with what you have at home! Whether it's fruits, toys, or spoons, use everyday items to teach counting. This activity enhances number recognition and makes learning relatable. Ask your child to count aloud as they touch each item – it's simple yet effective.

2. Nature's Counting Lesson:

Take learning outdoors with a nature counting adventure. Go on a walk and count the trees, flowers, or even birds. This not only teaches counting but also nurtures a love for nature and the environment.

3. Fun with Number Rhymes and Songs:

Songs and rhymes are fantastic tools for learning. Sing classics like "Five Little Ducks" or "Ten in the Bed." These catchy tunes help children remember numbers and enjoy the rhythm of counting.

4. Crafty Counting:

Get creative with arts and crafts that involve numbers. Make a counting collage with stickers or draw numbers with colorful chalk. These activities enhance fine motor skills and make learning tactile and visually stimulating.

5. Interactive Online Resources:

Utilize free online counting games and apps. These interactive tools offer a digital way to learn numbers and are great for tech-savvy toddlers.

Use all of the activities daily, rotating between them as needed until your child is ready to advance to another level in math.

5 Simple Free Counting Games For Preschoolers
Counting and Number Recognition Worksheets for Kids
Color & Write Numbers 1-20
5 Little Monkeys
Fishy Count Game
Bob the Builder Counting Game
Birthday Candle Counting
Starfall.com Counting From 1-20 Game

(Read more below the video)

 

Conclusion: Counting doesn't have to be mundane. With these free and fun activities, you can turn learning into an exciting adventure for your toddler or preschooler. Embrace each moment of discovery and watch as your child's counting skills grow!

Ready to start the counting adventure? Dive into these activities and share your fun learning experiences with us in a comment below!

Happy counting!

(Remember to bookmark this page for easy access to the video and links each day.)

 

 

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Two Affordable And Fun Toys for Teaching Kids to Read

© Lyn Lomasi; Owner/Shaman/Master Creator at Intent-sive N8R & Brand Shamans Content Community LLC

 

Teaching kids to read is a rewarding challenge that all parents face. These two fun and affordable toys can help teach kids to read and make reading time more enjoyable.

The Learning Journey Match It! spelling puzzle featured above can be used in a variety of ways. Teaching kids to read can actually be fun.

Kids should enjoy simply putting together the puzzle. However, for added benefit when teaching kids to read, parents can ask them to sound out the words during the process.

Kids just learning to read can still play this game, even if they don't quite know how to spell, since there is also a picture and the pieces will only fit together if they are paired in the correct order.

There are 20 of the word puzzles. Each puzzle has 3-4 pieces.

The GINMIC Magnetic Letters and Numbers with Easel can be used to spell out words with magnetic letters. The alphabet letters can also be used separately from the easel to form more words on a table or other smooth surface. Switching the way you do things helps keep kids interested.

Also try writing the letters and words on the wipe off board and playing sound and word games. This helps to provide some added variety in learning letters, sounds, and words.

Using the letters, easel, and puzzles in various ways helps ensure that the child is learning the lesson and not just memorizing the words based on pictures.

Combining these two products adds more flexibility and variety. However, they also can be used separately as well.

When teaching kids to read, remember to allow time for them to enjoy the learning activities in their own ways too. This way, they don't feel forced and the education comes more natural and easily.

 

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