The kids and I have entered our history studies again, this time exploring the Age of Reason (approximately 1600s and 1700s). We started with an overview of the timeline, both in Europe and in North America. After that overview, we spent some time with the philosophers that helped provide the framework for the advancements and… [Read More]
Leonardo Wrap-Up
Yesterday, we continued our reading of Beautiful Dreamer. Really, it’s such a fun, exploratory book about da Vinci. It leaves open lots of opportunities for pointing at things on the page and discussing interesting tidbits and themes. Once we finished reading, I challenged the kids to write a short essay about da Vinci. I told… [Read More]
Days 2 and 3 of da Vinci!
We had a great time yesterday building our da Vinci models. Eva chose the paddle boat, and Ian of course chose the mechanical drum. Both were gear-oriented, so we talked a lot about simple machines and how gears work to transfer energy. By the end, both kids were pretty impressed with Leonardo. The mechanical drum… [Read More]
Day 1 of da Vinci!
This marks week #4 in our studies of the Renaissance. In week #1, we did general research about the time period, getting an overview of the exciting things happening during that 300 year time span. In week #2, we studied Renaissance art, playing The Art Game and reading stories about the lives of Michelangelo and… [Read More]
History: It’s all about the Poo
I have a confession to make: I was a horrible history student growing up. I stressed out over battle names and dates, and seemingly endless lists of people and places. I have a terrible memory for things like this. Although I love stories, and am an avid reader, often I can’t recall the name of… [Read More]