Everyday Homeschooling

Teach Positive Social Skill This Spring, Part II | Apr 2, 2013 by MaryAnn Gaver

Yesterday we talked about the family table, and how it's a great place for kid's to learn social skills. Where else can you find such an accepting, loving and warm place? Also, I stated that one of the most powerful places on earth is the family table, so let's look at that...

The fact that the table is such an essential part of family life isn't because it's the place that we highlight the day's lessons, or because our kids learn new culinary skills. And it's not because we teach them to be good scholars or effective communicators, although those things are good.

Teach Positive Social Skills This Spring | Apr 1, 2013 by MaryAnn Gaver

Little ones recite their ABC's, elementary-aged children review the state's capitals, teenagers recall the best moments of the week...

I believe that one of the greatest places to teach our children is at the family table. Positive interaction, conversation, the exchange of ideas -- it all happens here!

At The Table | Mar 27, 2013 by MaryAnn Gaver

It's not just about what's on the table that counts --- it's about who's around the table that's important...

Have you ever thought about the fact that every time your family gathers around the table you have a wonderful opportunity to teach?

18+ Reasons Why I Homeschool | Mar 26, 2013 by Tracy Klicka

Having a list of reasons why I homeschool helps me remember the benefits and blessings at the time of our school year when I am usually feeling most like a failure...

Conversational Competence, Continued | Mar 25, 2013 by MaryAnn Gaver

As a follow-up to the first blog, Conversational Competence, I wanted to clarify what I meant by reminding our kids that "shyness isn't a virtue." Here's the heart behind the message...

Obviously, people have different personalities, and that's a wonderful thing. I want to gently encourage moms to be aware of opportunities to teach our kids how to be loving and polite, and how to train them to be good conversationalists as they grow up.

Nutrition Talk Tonight, March 21st @ 8:00 p.m. | Mar 21, 2013 by MaryAnn Gaver

Please join me tonight as we talk about the link between nutrition and health. At 8:00 p.m., I team up with Dr. Belinda Roettger...

Have you ever thought about how you work to take care of everyone in your family and often forget to take care of yourself?

One of the reasons I look forward to tonight is because I need some definite help in nutrition!

You're Invited | Mar 19, 2013 by MaryAnn Gaver

All of you are invited to our webinar, Nourish Your Family, this coming week. I'm teaming up with a friend of mine, Dr. Belinda Roettger, to bring you encouragement, inspiration, and every-day tips as you take care of your own health and as you nurture your family.

Thursday, March 21st @ 8:00 p.m.

HSLDA's at home e-events

The Pronunciation Project | Mar 18, 2013 by MaryAnn Gaver

"Say again, please," I bemoaned. The twins were fourteen years old. "Either you're mumbling, or I have a major hearing problem!"

After much debate, we surmised that it could be a little of both. Nonetheless, all through our homeschooling years, I reminded the boys that it was crucial to pronounce words clearly and to articulate the consonants whether speaking or reading aloud.

Spring's Coming! Two Great Ideas For March | Mar 18, 2013 by MaryAnn Gaver

Do your thoughts drift as you look outside? Well, chances are -- our kids feel the same way, making it a little bit harder to concentrate.

I'm not suggesting that you abandon today's lessons -- just that you build in a small stretch of time to go outside for some fresh air. You'll love these two fun activities...

March Is National Nutrition Month | Mar 15, 2013 by MaryAnn Gaver

We all want more energy and vitality, but how do we achieve it? How do we sort through all the nutrition information out there? Buy organic, or not buy organic? How do we ensure that our kids are taking in enough fruits and vegetables?

I'd like to invite you to join me on Thursday evening March 21st at 8:00 p.m. for a very special nutrition talk with a good friend of mine, Belinda Roettger, Ph.D.

Wishing You A Wonderful Easter Season | Mar 14, 2013 by MaryAnn Gaver

If you have small children, here's a great interactive tool as you teach the true account of Christ's resurrection...

Everyone knows that kids love to hold stuff in their little hands. They like to feel the texture of things, to engage the kinesthetic sense. Whether it's to stroke a soft, baby chick or to feel the roughness of burlap, you're sure to keep your child's attention when you awaken their senses as you teach and tell stories...

Take Time For Art | Mar 13, 2013 by MaryAnn Gaver

For kids, the great thing about art is the freedom of doing something fun, creative and imaginative. It's a way for students to express their individuality, engage their imagination and think analytically as they design and build their own pieces of art.

My recommendation is to make art whatever you want it to be. If you have younger children, consider putting a variety of play-doh colors on the table and see what they make. Let them relax and unwind.

A Day Made in Heaven... | Mar 12, 2013 by Tracy Klicka

I don’t care what any veteran might tell you to the contrary—being a mom is hard work, no matter how long you’ve been one. Likewise, home schooling is rarely easy (like rolling-out-of-bed easy)! Somehow, I fall into the regular trap of thinking I have contributed to making our day go smoothly...

Table Manners | Mar 11, 2013 by MaryAnn Gaver

"Boys, could you please not use your tee-shirt sleeves as napkins?" I said countless times.

I reminded the guys that good manners include consideration for the people that are sitting next to you at the table.

There are three requests I make at dinner time: Contribute, Converse, and Compliment.

The Discovery Drawer | Mar 7, 2013 by MaryAnn Gaver

What do you do with the kid's tiny (but important, to them anyway) little things that they collect? I would love to hear your ideas!

All kinds of trinkets -- from little magnets to golf tees to "special' rocks -- what's a mother to do? Yo-yos, harmonicas, feathers...

Maybe it's just me, but I really struggled with this. How to stay organized and streamlined? Hmm...

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