Hello!
As the summer heat gives way to crisp autumn days, we’re diving into a new and exciting chapter of our home education journey. My 12-year-old daughter has just started Year 8, and we’re embracing a learning experience that’s as unique as she is. I thought I’d share a bit about what we’ve got planned and why we’re so excited about it. Think of this as a friendly chat over coffee where I fill you in on our latest educational escapades!
The Artful Journey: Painting Outside the Lines
Art has always been a favorite in our house, and this year, it’s front and center in our curriculum. Our daughter is the boss of her art projects—she’s choosing what she wants to create, from abstract paintings to digital art. We’ve found some amazing resources like Tate Kids and Artful Parent that keep the inspiration flowing. And guess what? She’s even got her art prints up for sale at a local gallery! It’s been incredible watching her confidence grow as she shares her work with the community.
Skills she’s picking up: Creative expression, technical art skills, and a bit of entrepreneurial flair!
Math: More Than Just Numbers
Math can sometimes feel like a bunch of abstract numbers, but we’re making it come alive in fun and practical ways. We’re using real-life activities like cake decorating to teach geometry and fractions. She’s learning how to measure, mix, and create those perfect cake layers—all while getting a solid grip on math concepts. We’re also diving into functional skills like budgeting and measurement, which are super handy for everyday life. Websites like Math Playground make learning math feel like a game, which is pretty awesome!
Skills she’s picking up: Geometry, fractions, budgeting, and the kind of practical math that comes in handy when you’re baking a cake!
Novel Studies: Adventures in Reading and Writing
Reading is our gateway to adventure, and we’re having a blast with our novel studies. We pick books together, explore different genres, and dive deep into the stories. She’s even working on her own novel for NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month). It’s so exciting to see her imagination come to life on the page. We’re using resources like Scholastic’s Novel Study Guides to enrich our reading experience and help her develop her writing skills.
Skills she’s picking up: Storytelling, critical thinking, and the joy of creating her own worlds.
Science: Virtual Experiments and Zoom Fun
Science is all about exploration, and we’re taking it up a notch with Zoom lessons from an amazing science tutor. These virtual sessions let us do experiments, ask questions, and get hands-on with scientific concepts that might be tricky to tackle at home. It’s a fantastic way to bring the excitement of science right into our living room.
Skills she’s picking up: Scientific inquiry, experiment design, and a sense of wonder about how the world works.
Music and Cake Decorating: A Harmonious Blend
Music is another big part of our day. She’s taking piano lessons that are not only fun but also improve her concentration and fine motor skills. We’ve even mixed it up with cake decorating—yes, you read that right! It’s amazing how decorating cakes can teach precision and creativity. It’s like combining two of her favorite things into one delightful package.
Skills she’s picking up: Musical proficiency, precision in decorating, and the ability to merge creativity with technical skills.
Business Studies: The Thrill of Entrepreneurship
We’ve introduced business studies by letting her start her own jewellery business. She’s designing pieces, managing inventory, and learning how to market her creations. It’s been a fantastic way for her to understand the basics of running a business. Plus, seeing her enthusiasm and creativity in action has been truly inspiring.
Skills she’s picking up: Entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and marketing skills.
Coding: Creating in the Digital World
Coding is like a superpower in today’s tech-savvy world. She’s exploring it through platforms like Scratch and Code.org, where she can create games and animations. It’s not just about learning to code; it’s about problem-solving and thinking logically while having a blast with digital projects.
Skills she’s picking up: Logical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity in the digital realm.
Outdoor Adventures: Walking and Wagging
We’re also getting outdoors with the Golden Paw 50 Miles Walking Challenge and some dog agility training. Walking 50 miles is a fun way to stay active and explore nature, and agility training with our dog adds a touch of excitement. It’s a great way to teach patience, teamwork, and to enjoy the great outdoors together.
Skills she’s picking up: Physical fitness, teamwork, and a love for nature and pets.
Crafting Our Schedule Together
One of the best things about home education is crafting a schedule that works for us. We plan our days together, balancing academic subjects with creative projects and downtime. This approach helps her stay motivated and manage her time effectively, all while making sure we stay on track with our goals.
Finding the Balance: Independence Meets Guidance
At the heart of our approach is finding the right balance between independence and guidance. We let her take charge of her learning, make choices, and explore her interests, while we provide support and structure. It’s all about fostering confidence and ensuring she stays engaged and on track.
So there you have it—our home education adventure in a nutshell! From art and math to novel writing and outdoor challenges, we’re embracing a dynamic and personalized approach to learning. It’s been a fantastic journey so far, and we’re excited to see where it takes us next.
I hope this glimpse into our world inspires you and shows that home education can be a vibrant and fulfilling experience. Let’s continue to share our stories, support each other, and celebrate the unique paths we’re all on.
Happy learning and exploring!
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