Showing posts with label Activites for Kids. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Activites for Kids. Show all posts
Sep 15, 2011
Making Veggies and Fruit Fun
Have you ever tried having fun with your food? Try making a face or some other recognizable object with your food. You kids will love it!
Sep 8, 2011
Disposing the Piles of Artwork
I save everything. My husband saves everything, and now our oldest son, Luke, saves everything. This creates difficulties when you have art work coming home from preschool, church, and now homeschooling. I quickly realized that there was no way I could keep everything, but it is so hard for me to throw things away! I figured out how to handle this problem though.
It's that easy. Now I can dispose of the children's artwork without feeling guilty. Of course, I do save some now and then.
Do you have solutions for keeping or disposing of children's artwork?
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| Christmas Tree - December 2004 |
- Take a picture of the item. It's even better if you can take a picture of your child holding the artwork.
- File the picture in your computer by name and date.
- You and your child can then go back and view the pictures anytime you feel like it.
It's that easy. Now I can dispose of the children's artwork without feeling guilty. Of course, I do save some now and then.
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| Noodle Pumpkin - October 2005 |
Do you have solutions for keeping or disposing of children's artwork?
Aug 10, 2011
Making a Volcano
Luke has been wanting to make a volcano for ages. I kept putting him off because I thought the project would be very difficult and time consuming. We finally make one yesterday, and it was so easy! Here's what you need:
To make the volcano form:
6 cups flour
2 cups salt
4 Tablespoons oil
2 cups of water
plastic water bottle
Mix all ingredients until it forms a dough ball. All more water if needed.
Place the plastic water bottle in the middle of a cookie sheet or other type of baking dish. Use the dough mixture to form the shape of the volcano around the bottle. Luke did not feel like we made enough dough to make a big enough volcano, so you may need to make more. We didn't have any more salt though! We had other things to do, so we allowed the volcano to sit and harden for several hours. I'm not sure that was necessary though. Then we added chocolate syrup for visual effects.
Now fill the bottle about 3/4 full of warm water. You can add food coloring to the water for better effects. We added red and orange, but we found if you add the food coloring to the vinegar the color is better. You can also add a small amount of dish soap for a better bubble effect. Then add about 2 Tablespoons of baking soda to the water in the bottle. Finally, slowly add vinegar to the bottle, and enjoy the show!
To make the volcano form:
6 cups flour
2 cups salt
4 Tablespoons oil
2 cups of water
plastic water bottle
Mix all ingredients until it forms a dough ball. All more water if needed.
Place the plastic water bottle in the middle of a cookie sheet or other type of baking dish. Use the dough mixture to form the shape of the volcano around the bottle. Luke did not feel like we made enough dough to make a big enough volcano, so you may need to make more. We didn't have any more salt though! We had other things to do, so we allowed the volcano to sit and harden for several hours. I'm not sure that was necessary though. Then we added chocolate syrup for visual effects.
Now fill the bottle about 3/4 full of warm water. You can add food coloring to the water for better effects. We added red and orange, but we found if you add the food coloring to the vinegar the color is better. You can also add a small amount of dish soap for a better bubble effect. Then add about 2 Tablespoons of baking soda to the water in the bottle. Finally, slowly add vinegar to the bottle, and enjoy the show!
After the experiment we discussed the reaction and what actually happened when the baking soda and vinegar mixed. Click here to go to the site where we found our idea and most of our information.
Do you have any great science projects for kids? Please share with us!
Aug 9, 2011
Ice Cube Painting
We've been wanting to try this all summer, but we just now made time for it. I filled an ice cube tray with water and added washable poster paints. We only have red, blue, and yellow, so we had a lesson on mixing colors. We mixed the colors with toothpicks and then froze the cubes.
I left the toothpicks in four of the cubes to see if they would work for handles while painting. The toothpicks just broke- don't try it! After the cubes froze, we took them outside and had a blast painting with them!
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| Frozen Ice Cube Paints |
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| Ice Cube Painting |
Aug 5, 2011
Field Trip Ideas for Southern and Central Missouri
My homeschool group was discussing field trip ideas for the upcoming year. If you live in the area here's a few ideas for Southern and Central Missouri. I am recommending these from my own experiences. I have personally visited all of these places either during a public school field trip or homeschooling field trip.
Creation Museum of the Ozarks - Strafford, Missouri - Free
Read my earlier post on this free and fun field trip.
Runge Nature Center - Jefferson City, MO - Free
Visit the nature center and learn about fish, forest, and wildlife resources through many hands-on exhibits. While there we did a fun scavenger hunt of the center. We also used binoculars to view birds and other wildlife in the observation center. Luke's favorite part was checking out a backpack from the front desk and hiking. The backpack contained binoculars, a map, and many different wildlife guides. Hours are different depending on the day, so check out the website before planning a trip.
Springfield Conservation Nature Center - Springfield, MO - Free
Hike one of the six trails, visit the nature center, or attend a program here. In the nature center you'll find a replica of a cave and pond, many hands-on exhibits, and a puppet area for children. Hours are different depending on the season, so check out the website before planning a trip. If you really enjoy fish and wildlife consider also visiting Bass Pro Shop while in the area. Children can see many fish and even watch the divers feed the fish.
HaHa Tonka State Park - Camdenton, MO - Free
Visit the ruins of a castle while enjoying the breathtaking views of the Lake of the Ozarks. It will take you days to explore all of the trails and sites in this park. On your visit enjoy seeing sinkholes, natural bridges, caves, and explore the island. You can even visit by boat! Hours are different depending on the season, so check out the website before planning a trip.
Truman Dam and Visitor's Center - Warsaw, MO - Free
Watch the eagles sore over the water at this visitor's center or wander around and learn about the history of the Osage River Valley. My favorite part of our field trip was the part outside of the visitor's center. We visited an old schoolhouse, White Oak Cabin, the Hooper house and Farm Complex. I have heard that the October Heritage Days are the best days to visit to get the most out of your experience.
Missouri Institute of Natural Science - Springfield, MO - Free
We were not sure what to expect when arriving at this small museum in southern Springfield, but we were pleasantly surprised by what we found inside. Since we were the only visitors at the time, we were given a personal tour of the artifacts and history of the the museum. Then we enjoyed a movie in the adjoining room. We visited on a snowy day, but were told that next time we could fossil hunt outdoors for a fee of $4 per person. Luke can't wait to go back! To schedule a field trip call 417-883-0594
Bennett Springs State Park - Lebanon, MO - Cost depends on activities
Do you enjoy camping, fishing, hiking, or canoe? If so, Bennett Springs is the place for you. This is one of America's premier trout destinations. While there consider planning a field trip to learn more about the fish hatchery and nature center. Hours are different depending on the season, so check out the website before planning a trip.
Ozark Caverns - Lake of the Ozarks, MO
While touring this cave you get the opportunity to carry your own lantern into the unlit cave. You will take a guided tour and see the beautiful Angel’s Shower, which is a continuous flow of water from a “showerhead” of stalactites. The cave also has a great nature center with programs.
Rutledge-Wilson Farm - Springfield, MO - Farm is free - Some events and activities do have fees
We used to live within walking distance of this park. If your kids don't know what farm life is like, visit this 207-acre farm for a small taste of farm life. Children can visit the barn to see sheep, pigs, and cows. We even milked a fake cow while there! You enjoy the farm themed playground, walk the trail, or fish in the pond while there. I suggest visiting in October during their fall events. What their website, as they have events all year.
Jordan Valley Park - Springfield, MO - Free - It may cost if you park in the parking garage
Do your kids enjoy jumping in fountains or walking through miniature waterfalls. Visit Jordan Valley Park for tons of water fun! The fountains operate in 30-minute shows at the top of every hour from 10:00 AM - 9:30 PM. The fountains are continuous from 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM. Bring sunscreen and an extra change of clothes!
Wilson Creek National Battlefield - Springfield, MO - $5 per adult or $10 per vehicle
Step back in time and experience the first major Civil War battle west of the Mississippi River here. You can drive, walk, bike, or even ride a horse as you take a tour of this battlefield. Not only will you and your children learn about history, but you can enjoy the beautiful scenery. Visit the museum to learn more and see amazing artifacts from the Civil War. Hours are different depending on the season, so check out the website before planning a trip.
Elephant Rocks - Belleview, MO - Free
Would your kids enjoy climbing on rocks as big as elephants? You can enjoy hiking, camping, and climbing while visiting this park. Park hours change with the season. While here, consider visiting Fort Davidson Historical Site in nearby Pilot Knob. You can tour the visitor's center for information, artifacts, and a movie or walk through the fields and read about the Civil War battle that took place here.
Laura Ingalls Wilder Historic Home and Museum - Mansfield, MO - Children 6-17 - $4, Adults - $8, Seniors - $6
Have you read the Little House books? What better way to learn about the author than to visit her home and museum. I visited the Wilder home as a girl, and now it is on our list of places to go as a family. You can also visit the Kid's Page for coloring pages, word searches, and quizzes.
George Washington Carver National Monument - Diamond, MO - Free
Come learn about this famous scientists. Students can enjoy the nature walk, museum, hands-on exhibits, and classroom. The park is open 9:00 AM - 5:00 AM. Guided tours are available 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM. Click here to learn more about planning a field trip.
Orion Science Center - Camdenton, MO - $6 per person
Luke loves this place so much, we had to buy a season pass. The Orion Science Center is Christian owned and operated. Our favorite part is the outdoor activites. You can make and launch your own paper rocket, launch water balloons, launch tennis balls, zip line, take a nature walk, or play in Noah's ark. Check the website for hours, as they change with the seasons.
Air and Military Museum of the Ozarks - Springfield, MO
Are your kids interested in the military? This museum showcases over 5,000 pieces of military history. They preserve and display pieces of military history for educational purposes. I visited with a group of middle schoolers years ago, and we had a blast. We were given a guided tour and were allowed to sit in an old helicoptor.
Do you have any field trip ideas to share from your area?
This post is linked Chestnut Grove Academy's Field Trip Friday Blog Hop.
Creation Museum of the Ozarks - Strafford, Missouri - Free
Read my earlier post on this free and fun field trip.
Runge Nature Center - Jefferson City, MO - Free
Visit the nature center and learn about fish, forest, and wildlife resources through many hands-on exhibits. While there we did a fun scavenger hunt of the center. We also used binoculars to view birds and other wildlife in the observation center. Luke's favorite part was checking out a backpack from the front desk and hiking. The backpack contained binoculars, a map, and many different wildlife guides. Hours are different depending on the day, so check out the website before planning a trip.
Springfield Conservation Nature Center - Springfield, MO - Free
Hike one of the six trails, visit the nature center, or attend a program here. In the nature center you'll find a replica of a cave and pond, many hands-on exhibits, and a puppet area for children. Hours are different depending on the season, so check out the website before planning a trip. If you really enjoy fish and wildlife consider also visiting Bass Pro Shop while in the area. Children can see many fish and even watch the divers feed the fish.
HaHa Tonka State Park - Camdenton, MO - Free
Visit the ruins of a castle while enjoying the breathtaking views of the Lake of the Ozarks. It will take you days to explore all of the trails and sites in this park. On your visit enjoy seeing sinkholes, natural bridges, caves, and explore the island. You can even visit by boat! Hours are different depending on the season, so check out the website before planning a trip.
Truman Dam and Visitor's Center - Warsaw, MO - Free
Watch the eagles sore over the water at this visitor's center or wander around and learn about the history of the Osage River Valley. My favorite part of our field trip was the part outside of the visitor's center. We visited an old schoolhouse, White Oak Cabin, the Hooper house and Farm Complex. I have heard that the October Heritage Days are the best days to visit to get the most out of your experience.
Missouri Institute of Natural Science - Springfield, MO - Free
We were not sure what to expect when arriving at this small museum in southern Springfield, but we were pleasantly surprised by what we found inside. Since we were the only visitors at the time, we were given a personal tour of the artifacts and history of the the museum. Then we enjoyed a movie in the adjoining room. We visited on a snowy day, but were told that next time we could fossil hunt outdoors for a fee of $4 per person. Luke can't wait to go back! To schedule a field trip call 417-883-0594
Bennett Springs State Park - Lebanon, MO - Cost depends on activities
Do you enjoy camping, fishing, hiking, or canoe? If so, Bennett Springs is the place for you. This is one of America's premier trout destinations. While there consider planning a field trip to learn more about the fish hatchery and nature center. Hours are different depending on the season, so check out the website before planning a trip.
Ozark Caverns - Lake of the Ozarks, MO
While touring this cave you get the opportunity to carry your own lantern into the unlit cave. You will take a guided tour and see the beautiful Angel’s Shower, which is a continuous flow of water from a “showerhead” of stalactites. The cave also has a great nature center with programs.
Rutledge-Wilson Farm - Springfield, MO - Farm is free - Some events and activities do have fees
We used to live within walking distance of this park. If your kids don't know what farm life is like, visit this 207-acre farm for a small taste of farm life. Children can visit the barn to see sheep, pigs, and cows. We even milked a fake cow while there! You enjoy the farm themed playground, walk the trail, or fish in the pond while there. I suggest visiting in October during their fall events. What their website, as they have events all year.
 |
| Christmas on the Farm |
Jordan Valley Park - Springfield, MO - Free - It may cost if you park in the parking garage
Do your kids enjoy jumping in fountains or walking through miniature waterfalls. Visit Jordan Valley Park for tons of water fun! The fountains operate in 30-minute shows at the top of every hour from 10:00 AM - 9:30 PM. The fountains are continuous from 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM. Bring sunscreen and an extra change of clothes!
 |
| Jordan Valley Park |
Wilson Creek National Battlefield - Springfield, MO - $5 per adult or $10 per vehicle
Step back in time and experience the first major Civil War battle west of the Mississippi River here. You can drive, walk, bike, or even ride a horse as you take a tour of this battlefield. Not only will you and your children learn about history, but you can enjoy the beautiful scenery. Visit the museum to learn more and see amazing artifacts from the Civil War. Hours are different depending on the season, so check out the website before planning a trip.
 |
| Wilson's Creek National Battlefield |
Elephant Rocks - Belleview, MO - Free
Would your kids enjoy climbing on rocks as big as elephants? You can enjoy hiking, camping, and climbing while visiting this park. Park hours change with the season. While here, consider visiting Fort Davidson Historical Site in nearby Pilot Knob. You can tour the visitor's center for information, artifacts, and a movie or walk through the fields and read about the Civil War battle that took place here.
Laura Ingalls Wilder Historic Home and Museum - Mansfield, MO - Children 6-17 - $4, Adults - $8, Seniors - $6
Have you read the Little House books? What better way to learn about the author than to visit her home and museum. I visited the Wilder home as a girl, and now it is on our list of places to go as a family. You can also visit the Kid's Page for coloring pages, word searches, and quizzes.
George Washington Carver National Monument - Diamond, MO - Free
Come learn about this famous scientists. Students can enjoy the nature walk, museum, hands-on exhibits, and classroom. The park is open 9:00 AM - 5:00 AM. Guided tours are available 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM. Click here to learn more about planning a field trip.
Orion Science Center - Camdenton, MO - $6 per person
Luke loves this place so much, we had to buy a season pass. The Orion Science Center is Christian owned and operated. Our favorite part is the outdoor activites. You can make and launch your own paper rocket, launch water balloons, launch tennis balls, zip line, take a nature walk, or play in Noah's ark. Check the website for hours, as they change with the seasons.
Air and Military Museum of the Ozarks - Springfield, MO
Are your kids interested in the military? This museum showcases over 5,000 pieces of military history. They preserve and display pieces of military history for educational purposes. I visited with a group of middle schoolers years ago, and we had a blast. We were given a guided tour and were allowed to sit in an old helicoptor.
Do you have any field trip ideas to share from your area?
This post is linked Chestnut Grove Academy's Field Trip Friday Blog Hop.
Jun 8, 2011
Picture Book Math Part 2
One Grain of Rice: A Mathematical Folktale
By: Demi
Click here to view Part 1.
By: Demi
After doing a good deed, Rani, an Indian village girl, convinces the raja to give her a single grain of rice. The people are suffering from a drought, and the raja refuses to give the people rice from his storehouses. The raja agrees to Rani’s request, but insists on giving her more. Rani asks for her rice to be doubled each day for thirty days. Each beautiful illustration shows how the doubling of rice starts to surprise the raja. Rani ends up getting more than a billion grains of rice on the thirtieth day. The book illustrates this with fold out pages to delight children. The raja learns how to be generous in the end. I have seen children from grade two through grade eight enjoy this story.
The M&M’s Brand Counting Book
By: Barbara Barbieri McGrath
This book is great for younger children, preschool through grade one. Chocolate M&M illustrations teach children about colors, counting, grouping, adding, subtracting, and simple shapes. It’s even more fun to add real M&M’s to the learning experience!Click here to view Part 1.
Jun 7, 2011
Picture Book Math Part 1
Being a teacher, I love to read. Since I taught math most of the years I was in public school, I love to read math related picture books to my kids. I’m going to share some of my favorite math related picture books in this series. Try finding these books at your local library before purchasing them. You can also try PaperBack Swap. I haven’t tried the swap, but I’ve heard good things about it.
Math Curse
By Jon Scieszka
Illustrated by Lane Smith
My all time favorite math book! I’ve always started the school year with this book. My age recommendation for this book is older elementary grades on up. (My seventh and eighth graders enjoyed this book.) The main character in this delightful book wakes up to a day where everything is a problem, a math problem! She must go through her day solving a variety of different types of math problems. Kids will love this one!
How Much is a Million?
By David M. Schwartz
Illustrated by Steven Kellogg
This is another book more appropriate for upper elementary and middle school grades. Sometimes students have a hard time grasping how much a million really is. This book gives kids a friendly, fun description and even a picture of a million. Then it goes on to describe a billion and trillion with goldfish and stars. Click here to view Part 2.
Jun 3, 2011
Make Your Own Costumes
What kind of costumes have you made?
Make Your Own Crayons
We did this one afternoon, and it was a success!
Materials:
Old broken crayons (remove the paper)
Old muffin tins (I used cupcake liners in my muffin tins)
Heat the oven to 250 degrees. Place old broken crayons in the muffin liners. We only filled each one about ½ full. Heat in the oven until crayons have melted. Let cool for several hours. Enjoy your new crayons.
Have your kids practice mixing colors with this activity. My son just wanted to put every color together.
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