Showing posts sorted by relevance for query pe activities. Sort by date Show all posts
Showing posts sorted by relevance for query pe activities. Sort by date Show all posts
Showing posts sorted by relevance for query pe activities. Sort by date Show all posts
Showing posts sorted by relevance for query pe activities. Sort by date Show all posts

The Kaleidoscope Kids Children's Picture Book Teaches Colors, Numbers, and Shapes

Learn Colors in a Fun, Creative Way

Now and again, I am asked to do book reviews.  I accept but rarely offer a sidebar button, because I don't feel the book is in line with our message.  The Kaleidoscope Kids by Terry P. O'Grady is an adorable story about ten little fairies who were born to teach colors, numbers, and shapes to children. The beautiful, colorful  illustrations are done by Rick Barrett. (I love the quirky fairy illustrations so much; I want to see if Rick will illustrate something for me!)


Colorful, Creative Characters teach Colors, Numbers, and Shapes.

The Kaleidoscope Kids is perfect for preschool curriculum, as well as, the perfect bedtime story.  Terry O'Grady has four grown children, six grand children, and  has worked with many youth organizations. The story is designed to teach children a creative way to learn colors, numbers, and shapes. Each fairy has their own unique color, number, and shape coordinated together to aid in the process of visual learning. This book  should be added to the library of anyone with a child in preschool or early elementary school.

Great News! We have been given a signed copy of the book for a giveaway.  To enter for your chance to win follow our Pinterest Pin it to Win it! Online Scavenger Hunt for Preschool Curriculum and leave a comment on the purple pin to join and begin pinning. Winner will be announced December 3, 2012.

Click to purchase the book on Amazon or Create Space or Kindle.

*Tip: When you purchase through Create Space the author receives a larger royalty.


Recommended Reading:


Our own Children's Cookbook with easy holiday recipes and activities is available now.

Easter Theme PE activities


United States Capitals and Symbols: Free Homeschooling Online

Lesson Ideas for United States Capitals and Symbols

United States Capitals and Symbols: These activities will help you learn how the United States came to be united. Study the state capitals and symbols with fun online games and free printables. Each of our free online homeschooling lessons includes language arts, social studies, science, and art components. Whenever possible, we also include math and PE. Scroll down for online games and activities. Enjoy!


United States Capitals and Symbols:  Free Online Homeschooling Lessons.




Elementary and Middle School Social Studies: Grades 3-8

Teacher Resources:
Free Common Core Lesson Ideas for grades 3 - 12 from Brainpop.com


Student Lesson:


Do this:  While you are studying the state capitals, make an index card for each state. On the front write the state’s name in the CENTER of the card in big, bold letters. 

On the back, write the name of the state’s capital. As you learn facts about each state, draw pictures on the card to represent them. For example, for Indiana decorate your card with the Cardinal (state bird) and Corn (state resource).


Watch this video about how it all began:

Schoolhouse Rock The United States Preamble to the Constitution



Geography


Cartoon: Sing the 50 state capitals with Wakko of Animaniacs.






Now, you're ready to practice what you've learned with this cool Capital Catch Game from kidsgeo.com. Match Capitals with States Online Game.


Learn State Capitals Game Quiz.
State capital matching game and quiz from kidsgeo.com.
Click the link above to play game.


History


When did Indiana become a State? ______________________
(Write out the question, and answer it in your daily journal.)
Find out here: Statehood Dates


Fun Videos that teach how we became the United States of America:

Video on Boston Tea Party by Schoolhouse Rock: No More Kings




Schoolhouse Rock: The Shot Heard Round the World




Why do we have fireworks on the Fourth of July?
Answer this in your daily journal.


Schoolhouse Rocks: Fireworks




Read How did the American Revolution happen?  If you subscribe to Brainpop, watch the video here.


Grab a piece of paper (or use a Google Doc) and tell how the American revolution happened? Why did it happen?  


Start with this Printable Cause and Effect Graphic Organizer


Because of all of that, America became a melting pot.



How are you doing? Test your knowledge with a State Capitals Quiz.


More about the U.S. Constitution from Brainpop.com (subscribers only).



Art Component
Let’s get messy! Make your own 3D map of the United States activity. You will need tempera paint, flour, salt, water, and some cardboard. Remember: Baking and Making is science too!

See how to do it at Weird Unsocialized Homeschoolers.



How to make a 3D United States map with salt dough.
How to make a 3D United States map with salt dough.
Visit Weird Unsocialized Homeschoolers.


Language Arts Component


Grammar Monster explains the difference between capital and capitol.  Be sure to scroll past the quick answer to learn more about capital vs. capitol.



Science Component


What is the state bird for __________________? (fill in your state and bird). Optional: Research why your state bird was chosen.




Become a bird watcher in your state and Research Birds of the United States. Follow the link to learn about typical and rare birds found in each state. Find out how you can help report rare bird sightings.


Print this: Printable Worksheets for State Birds from Education.com


Did you know the state bird for Delaware is a Rooster, okay a chicken but still… :)



State Bird Coloring Sheets for Children from Education.com
State Bird Coloring Sheets for Children from Education.com


Early Elementary Component Pre-K - 3, but suitable for older kids too!


Free Online Quiz and Video on U.S. symbols from Brainpopjr.com
Free online matching game: Match the United States symbols.


Name 3 United States symbols. On a separate sheet of paper, draw the symbols with crayons or markers.


1.___________________________________________________


2.___________________________________________________


3.___________________________________________________

Social Studies Just for Fun Online Games


Play this fun game from Funbrain.com: Where is that?


From Cool-Mathgames.com: State Snap match the states shape game.

Fun Activity: Collect United States State Quarters. Each quarter has special information about the state it represents.

The U.S. Mint has lots of online games and videos. We've got an online lesson on how to make money - okay, it is really about how they make money at the mint, but how to make money sounds more exciting!

Recommended Reading:

United Tweets of America: 50 State Birds Their Stories, Their Glories


Learn about Presidents of the United States

Fireworks, Picnics, and Flags: The Story of the Fourth of July Symbols

The Story of America's Birthday

Soaring with the Wind: The Bald Eagle

A Picnic in October - A story about the Statue of Liberty.




Fun Things to do in Indiana with Kids: Bounce U in Fishers ~ A Jumping Good Time

Fun Things to do Indoors in Indiana: Bounce U is a Great Rainy Day Activity


Are you looking for fun things to do with kids this summer? Maybe you have a little cash set aside for summer camp or maybe you need something that is next to FREE for those much needed rainy day activities?  Either way, Bounce U has the answers for you!  In Fishers, Indiana the Bounce U is completely renovated and under new management. I've been to many of these play places with kids. Oh yeah, I even briefly operated a play place for kids (The Play Connection, Inc.).  So, I have a pretty good idea what works and what doesn't. 


Rainy Day indoor Activities in Indiana: Bounce U in Fishers.
Rainy Day indoor Activities in Indiana: Bounce U in Fishers.

Here's what I LOVED about BOUNCE U:
  • OPEN BOUNCE!  Come bounce for a 3 hr. session for only $8 per child. That's great huh, but wait there's more.
  • SESSIONS are led by a staff member (think camp counselor). Mom or Dad or Grandparents can sit back and relax in the lounge area with FREE WIFI. From your vantage point, you can see all the action and keep an eye on your kids.  The staff keeps them entertained and safe.
  • BOREDOM BUSTERS.  Bored with this play space? The staff starts in one room and moves to another room with different bounce structures and recreational games.
  • SNEAKY PE!  Get your physical activity credit hours for homeschool and health while having fun!


fun things to do in Indiana with Kids
Giant Boxing Ring complete with headgear and oversize boxing gloves.


 Oh yeah, and they get tuckered out fast! 

Inflatable Bounce Houses



Inflatable Bounce Place for birthday party - Jumping
Lots of inflatable jumping options in each room.

It is perfect for Summer Camp, Birthday Parties, and Playdates. 

Recommended Reading:

Ten Little Monkeys: Jumping on the Bed

Things to do in Indiana


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How To Take Care Of Your Entire Family This Winter

Flu and Cold Season is on the Way


The beginning of the school year, can signal the beginning of colds and flu in your home. When the weather becomes cooler and the days grow shorter, health may become a significant concern. Coughs, colds, and even the flu, as well as more severe diseases, can suddenly become considerably more common. It's essential to understand some of the ways you can help your whole family stay healthy during winter so you can enjoy the time you spend together while everyone is safe and sound. The following tip will help you take care of your family during winter months of cold and flu season.



Tips to Keep entire family healthy this winter in cold and flu season



Tips for staying healthy during cold and flu season


Eat Healthily 

Our bodies are amazing machines that convert what we put into them in the form of food and drink into energy and hormones that do everything for us. We are happier and healthier when we eat the proper meals. A bad diet means our immune systems don't work as well as they should, and sometimes shut down altogether, so eating correctly to get enough vitamins and minerals to keep our bodies strong and ready to fight off the numerous illnesses that attack us, particularly during the winter months, is crucial. Try this recipe for baked salmon.


Adopt Healthy Lifestyle as a Family


Fruits and vegetables are the simplest methods to get these nutrients, so getting your five a day is critical. If it's a challenge to include more fruits and vegetables into your diet, try preparing a nutritious morning smoothie for everyone.  Here's a fun way to get kids to eat potassium rich bananas.



Healthy Banana Snack for Kids

Keep Clean 

The simple act of washing your hands can help to keep everyone in the home healthy, and not just the individual who did the hand-washing. The initial point of contact between you and a virus or illness is usually your hands. Giving a loved one a hug, shaking hands, holding hands, and so on can spread diseases from one person to the next. By ensuring that everyone washes their hands frequently (particularly after using the bathroom, changing a diaper, and wiping your or a child's nose), you can minimize the chance of unpleasant diseases spreading. If washing your hands causes dry skin (as it may during the winter months), then invest in some excellent hand lotion as well to keep the momentum going. 


This "how to wash your hands" interactive printable lesson is great for the classroom or homeschool, it explains the importance of hand washing in detail and makes it fun.



Wash Hands activity for classroom


Check The Animals 

If you have pets, you might discover that they are prone to sickness during the winter months as well. They, too, have immune systems, and although they don't function exactly like ours, that doesn't mean they can't become sick. It is important to take your pet to a great vet, such as exceptionalpets.com, if you suspect they are ill. In this way, you can keep your pet healthy, and everyone else in the family since some animal illnesses can spread to humans.  Our pets can even catch Covid19, so if you're sick, watch them for symptoms. Our bird, a Cockatiel, was very sick when we had Covid, luckily he recovered with some TLC.



Adult Male Cockatiel


Exercise

Getting adequate exercise is another brilliant way to strengthen the immune system. This could be as easy as taking your dog for a walk or taking the stairs instead of the elevator. Park a bit further away from the supermarket's entrance, so you'll have to walk a little longer. Spend some time cleaning up the leaves in the garden. It doesn't have to be an exercise class or an hour at the gym, and the more people that participate, the better.  We've got some fun PE Activities to get you moving,check them out!




Summer Homeschool Projects to Get Your Kids Outdoors


Outside Projects for Homeschoolers


When the days are warmer and longer, the beautiful sunny weather makes homeschool lessons more and more difficult to do indoors. Why sit inside and stare at textbooks when you can teach your kids some lessons in the great outdoors? We've got summer homeschool projects to get your kids outdoors and enjoying the fresh air. Read on for homeschool activities you can do outside with the kids!

This post contains Amazon affiliate links.

Summer Homeschool Projects to Get Your Kids Outdoors




Whether you’re teaching homeschool science, math, or life skills, we’ve compiled a list of some homeschool projects to get your kids outside and learning at the same time!

Grow a Kid-Friendly Garden

Gardening with kids is educational and a good mental and physical workout. Not to mention, digging around in the dirt and planting some flowers with your kids is just good old fashion fun! The internet is full of all sorts of different gardening lesson plans, and you can make this homeschool project as simple or complex as you want.




However, sometimes keeping it simple is the best way to get your kids engaged in a project. Start by building a raised garden bed that is all theirs. If they’re old enough, have them help you put the bed together. This gives them the opportunity to explore their carpentry skills! Next, plant some easy-to-grow vegetable seeds or starts such as beets, potatoes, tomatoes, green onions, beans, and kale.


When the time comes to harvest your plants, you’ll be able to teach your kids a bit about the food industry, and they’ll make the connection that all the vegetables and fruits they eat have to be grown from seed before they make it to their plate!

Education-Based Nature Hike

Hikes are one of the best parts of summer. They get your heart pumping, work up a good sweat and the view at the top of the mountain is always breathtaking. While hiking will definitely fulfill your kids’ PE requirement, it’s also a great time to explore your area’s local climate! Depending on where you live and where you choose to hike, there will be a few different homeschool lessons you can teach. Check out this list of ideas to get started!

Do a Beach Treasure Hunt

As a kid, you probably remember going on a field trip or two to the beach to look for seashells and hermit crabs. The beautiful weather is a great excuse to go do a little hands-on marine biology lesson!




Create your own treasure hunt and have your kids explore the area to find everything on the list. Not only will they learn more about your local environment, but they’ll burn off all that energy by running around trying to collect all their items!

Outdoor Art Projects

Your kids love art projects. They’ll love them, even more, when they get to do them outside! There are a variety of different art projects that utilize plant material to create something beautiful. Some tried and true classics include painting rocks, sun prints, and nature sculptures.

Visit Some Local Historical Landmarks

Who says history lessons have to be taught out of a textbook? Take your kids on a trip to some local landmarks to teach them a little bit about your town’s unique history.




Get in touch with your local museum to see what programs they have going on for kids during the summer. Or, take a day trip to your state’s capital or nearby national or state parks.

Tried and True Baking Soda and Vinegar Volcano

Sometimes the classics are hard to beat. Kids love watching stuff explode, but having to clean up the ensuing mess may be a turn-off. Take the mess outside and teach them a little bit about chemical reactions with a baking soda and vinegar volcano. There are hundreds of tutorials on the internet, and this project can be as simple as using a 2L bottle or as complex and crafting a paper mache volcano to go along with the experiment!

Build a Compost Bin

I didn’t realize it at the time, but when we built a compost bin in my 7th-grade science class, I learned so much about building healthy soil and the benefits of compost! Not only will building a compost bin give your kids some experience with woodworking, but they’ll have the first-hand experience of watching kitchen and yard waste turn into a valuable soil additive.




Finish off the lesson by having your kids add your homegrown compost to the garden and observe how the plants respond. Have them predict ahead of time what they think will happen and then help them keep a log of the plant growth and changes.

Bird Watching and Identification

During lunch, take the opportunity to sit outside and do a bit of bird watching! Install a few bird feeders around your yard and you’ll be surprised to see how many of them flock to the seeds. If you can get close enough, you can even make a project out of identifying them. Find a local bird guidebook and have them check off all the different species they find. Or, get out of the house and visit a bird sanctuary.

Take Your Regular Lessons Outdoors

Sometimes getting out and enjoying the outdoors is as easy as taking your regularly scheduled lesson plan outdoors! Establish an outdoor area that your kids can study at without baking in the sun. Consider installing a hardtop gazebo and building a high-quality outdoor table that your kids can comfortably study at.


And when the school day is over, that same gazebo and table can offer your guests a place to hang out on those long summer nights. In the rainy season, you can still use that outdoor space to complete messy projects that you don’t want to do indoors.


What projects are you planning for your kids this upcoming summer? Let us know in the comments below!


Bio: Leigha Staffenhagen is the managing editor of Insteading.com, a homesteading and sustainability site focusing on everything from gardening and raising chickens to tiny homes and off-grid living.