Make Learning Basic Math Facts a Breeze In the fast-paced world of education, the race to move from one grade level to the next often overshadows the importance of mastering the basics. Nailing down fundamental math skills—addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, decimals, percentages, and measurements—is the key to unlocking a world of mathematical possibilities for kids. Here’s why taking it slow and focusing on the essentials can set them up for higher math success, and how easy, daily practice can make all the difference. Related: FREE KISS (Keep It Simple, Silly) List of my favorite math resources QUICK Guide- Free for you! The Power of Foundations Imagine math skills as the building blocks of a towering structure. The stronger and more secure the foundation, the higher and more confidently the structure can rise. Similarly, mastering basic math skills is not about rushing through grade levels; it’s about building a robust foundation that can support the complexities of higher-level math. No Rush, Just Mastery In a world where speed often takes precedence, it’s crucial to emphasize that there’s no rush in the journey of learning. Instead of focusing on progressing to the next grade level, parents and educators should encourage a mastery-based approach. A solid understanding of basic math concepts ensures that children are well-equipped to tackle more advanced topics with confidence. Daily Practice: The Secret Sauce The key to mastering math basics lies in consistent, daily practice. However, this doesn’t mean hours of tedious worksheets. Instead, opt for a curriculum that strikes the perfect balance—just enough to move kids forward at a steady pace without overwhelming them with unnecessary busy work. Fun with Manipulatives and Flashcards Boring drills are a thing of the past! Introduce fun manipulatives and flashcards to make learning engaging and enjoyable. Turn small pockets of time, like waiting for pasta to boil or sitting in a waiting room, into opportunities for quick math practice. Incorporate games, interactive apps, and colorful flashcards to keep things lively and maintain a positive attitude toward learning. Seizing the Moment Life is filled with little pockets of time that often go underutilized. Waiting for a sibling to finish practice or sitting in the waiting room can become valuable moments for drilling math facts. Compact, focused sessions in these moments add up, contributing significantly to a child’s overall math proficiency. Slow down to speed up later! In the quest for mathematical excellence, the journey begins with a solid foundation in the basics. By emphasizing mastery over speed, incorporating daily, manageable practice, and infusing fun into learning, parents and educators can ensure that children not only understand math but also develop a genuine love for it. So, let’s slow down, focus on the essentials, and watch as our kids embark on a journey of mathematical success that lasts a lifetime.
Free Copy of My book The key to a successful homeschool journey lies in recognizing the stage your kids are in—whether it’s the foundational years, the flourishing and fun phase, or the launching into independence. Tailoring your approach to these stages ensures a well-rounded education. Yet, the real magic happens when you prioritize nurturing their hearts and character development above all. By fostering a love for learning, cultivating resilience, and instilling values, you set the foundation for a holistic education that goes beyond academics, preparing them not just for exams but for life’s diverse challenges. In my 3 Stages of Homeschool Class, you’ll get your foundation established! Yes please Yes, you can simply download a free copy of my book below, but the MAGIC is in combining the lessons in the pages with the solid understanding of where your kids are in their homeschool journey today. I desperately needed this kind of HOPE and JOY in my own homeschooling journey, so I created them for you… Come grab your seat in the self-paced class 3 Stages of Homeschool and get your free copy as well. Picture a warm morning in the cozy corner of the living room, where a mom, brimming with joy, embarks on an imaginative journey with her children. In the foundations stage, they explore letters and numbers through playful games and stories. As the homeschool adventure progresses into the flourishing and fun years, laughter fills the room as they delve into exciting experiments and creative projects. Now, in the launching phase, the mom witnesses her children spreading their wings, equipped not just with academic knowledge but also with resilience and kindness. Through this homeschooling odyssey, joy isn’t just a fleeting moment; it’s the backdrop to a tapestry of learning, laughter, and the beautiful symphony of a family growing together.Yes Please Prefer a hard copy? Yes, it’s on Amazon! Better? Get the same pdf copy inside the free 3 Stages of Homeschool Class
Successful Homeschooling: What if… What if by the time you finish teaching your kids… They are kind. They are confident. They look people in the eye when spoken to. They befriend the new kids. What if: They put down their phone when others are in the room. They are strong and hard working. They know how to cook, chop wood and change the oil on a car. They are compassionate and caring. They LOVE to read and devour the written word. They never text and drive What if: They hunt down information when their interests are piqued. They can balance their checkbook and manage a budget. They can break down a project into a workable timeline. They can manage a calendar. They can create powerpoint presentations and present their ideas to a group. Related: Download your free “WHAT IF” printable What if: They know how to receive instruction. They can add, subtract, multiply, and divide whole numbers, fractions, and decimals. They can measure accurately using various tools. They can take a disappointment in stride. They lose with dignity and win with humility. Follow me on YouTube What if: They pass on compliments (…”my dad taught me that”) They can manage their own small business, like lawn care. They put things back where they found them. They acknowledge that a great team is worth its weight in gold. They master the art of harmony– working together blending talents and abilities for the greater good. … Read More »
97+ Amazing Ways to Make Math Fun for Our Kids Inside: A master list of simple, inexpensive, and fun ways to teach all the basic math principles your kids need to thrive. PLUS- Free Math Roadmap Most homeschoolers overcomplicate math with fancy curriculum, worksheets, quizzes, stop-watches and tests. We choose to be different! Before you scroll, get your free gift …Read More »
Need Help Finding Real Scholarships? We currently have three kids in college and one in the trades. In case you’re wondering… that’s a lot ! We don’t believe that all kids need to attend college to be a success in life, but sheesh. Does it have to cost a fortune for those who choose that route? Jocelyn has our full attention! She made finding scholarships to fund her education her job and succeeded in earning enough money to pay for school AND earn overage cash. Finding Scholarships- Help is a click away!! Yes please!! How to avoid scams: https://scholarship.samcart.com/referral/spot-scholarship-scams/WQllwdXXWD7Roh70
Why didn’t anyone tell me this BEFORE I started Homeschooling? I was TERRIFIED as I stepped into homeschooling. … Read More »
How to Make Learning Fun: EASY! She lays awake at night tossing and turning. She tries to rest, but when she closes her eyes she sees the slumped over image of her son burned into her memory. “I failed again.” She is confused. She read all the latest and greatest articles on how to teach her child, but when she tries to follow the advice, her son closes down and she becomes frustrated, discouraged and depressed. “I’m messing up my kid!” …Read More »
How to Turn Homeschool Frustration into Joy and Learning Dear homeschool mom, Don’t homeschool. I’m not kidding. Yes, kids need to read and write and solve basic math problems, but they don’t need school at home. They need to have plenty of time to run, jump, slide, swing, lay, laugh, build, and rest. Related: building toys Give them time to be bored, time to think, time to day dream. Don’t give them workbooks, worksheets, and hours of assignments. Instead, give them LESS. …Read More »
You Don’t Need to Apologize for Raising Kids In a Greenhouse It’s not fair. When you dedicate your life to raising your kids and personally stay at home to make sure their needs are met, you are like a master gardener inside a greenhouse. Greenhouses are safe and controlled environments which provide optimum conditions for seeds to grow. …Read More »
This is the Best List of Delightful Books for Preschoolers (and their Parents) What’s that I see? My little guy toddling around the corner in just his underwear and cowboy boots tightly gripping his treasures: his snuggly blue satin blanket, a loaded nerf gun and 3 tattered books. My face relaxes. It must be almost bedtime. I panic a little. …Read More »
Choosing a Chore System that Works for Your Family Inside: Age Appropriate Chores {printable} We have always believed in the philosophy that children are a welcomed addition to our family. We love, eat, live, play and WORK together as a family unit. We also make messes faster than the chicken can cross the road to prove to the opossum it can be done. … Read More »
Many Homeschoolers are Delayed Readers Too Inside: Ways to inspire your late reader. {Plus free cheatsheet} All FIVE of our sons were delayed Learners #1 Son Didn’t talk until he was four Couldn’t read until he was six Wouldn’t drive until he turned 19… Read More »
Boys: Messy, Loud, Combative, Energetic-Verbs Personified Are you a mom of boys? I am. I am the proud mom of five Messy, Loud, Combative, Wonderful and Energetic future men. My boys are “Verbs Personified”. (Combative- In this writing, I mean competitiveness to the extreme. Possessing a willingness to die for victory. A spirit of “all-in”. A determination that is indescribable) If you only have girls, I am not sure how much this one will apply to you, but please read on and share with your friends who have boys. I have spent a lot of time trying to stop myself from treating my boys like girls. I am very aware that boys are made quite unique from we girls. For the sake of this rambling thought, let’s agree on a few things first. … Read More »
10 Heartwarming Mother’s Day Crafts to Make with Your Kids Ready?!? Mother’s Day is a special day dedicated to honoring and celebrating the love, care, and hard work of mothers all around the world, and it’s time to help our kids make our special cards and gifts!! Because we’re moms! Making a Mother’s Day craft is not only a fun and creative activity for kids, but it also teaches them important lessons about gratitude, empathy, and love. Adorable craft …Read More »
Fun Ways to Teach Parts of Speech to Kids Learning the parts of speech is an important aspect of language development for kids. Here are some reasons why: …Read More »
Homeschooling for Beginners- Everything You Need to Get Started! Homeschooling is the process of educating children at home rather than sending them to a public or private school. It is a growing trend in the United States and around the world, with more and more parents choosing to homeschool their children for a variety of reasons. If you are a beginner looking to start homeschooling your children, this guide will provide you with some helpful tips and advice to get started. …Read More »