All Blog Posts

Snow unit study for gifted children

Snow Unit Study and Snowflakes Printable | Winter Science

Winter is a season of stillness. The days are shorter, the trees are bare, and nature seems to be taking a deep breath, waiting for spring. But then there’s snow—a brilliant exception to winter’s quiet. Snow is exciting, full of texture, patterns, and wonder. It invites play, exploration, and curiosity….

all about owls, owl unit study by monkey and mom
| |

Teach Kids about Owls | Owl Unit Study Printable

Have you ever tried to teach your kids about science and had them lose interest halfway through? Or maybe you’ve searched for a way to combine subjects like reading, art, and nature studies but ended up feeling overwhelmed by the sheer number of resources out there? I’ve been there. Kids…

homeschool geography polar regions unit study
| |

Exploring Biomes: The Polar Regions Unit Study for Kids

Teaching geography, especially topics like the polar regions, can be challenging. We want kids to go beyond just memorizing places and facts—to understand, connect, and get curious. The Arctic and Antarctic regions aren’t just faraway locations; they’re home to incredible landscapes, animals adapted to extreme conditions, and unique ecosystems. My…

Teaching Emotional Literacy - Free Gratitude Tree Printable Leaves
|

Teaching Emotional Literacy – Free Gratitude Tree Printable Leaves

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy for kids—and even us adults—to move through life without truly noticing the little things. With schoolwork, after-school activities, and the constant hustle of daily routines, teaching emotional literacy can feel like just one more thing on an already packed to-do list for parents and…

6th grade writing prompts themed writing mysteries and clues
|

6th Grade Writing Prompts and Themed Writing- Egypt Mysteries Printable

Getting 6th graders excited about writing can be challenging. You’ve probably experienced it firsthand—the blank stares, the heavy sighs, and the constant “I don’t know what to write!” At this stage, kids are asked to think more deeply and organize their thoughts in ways that feel more structured. And while…

Community Helpers Printable- community helpers coloring pages
|

Community Helpers Printable Coloring Pages and Tracing

Teaching young children about the people who help keep our communities running smoothly can be both rewarding and tricky. Community helpers like police officers, firefighters, and mail carriers play vital roles, but explaining their work in ways that resonate with kindergarteners and first graders can sometimes be a challenge. Many…

Types of clouds worksheets- Clouds unit study for gifted kids
|

Types of Clouds Worksheets | Cloud Unit Study

Clouds are more than just shapes in the sky—they help us understand the weather and how our atmosphere works. For kids, learning about clouds can spark curiosity and provide a solid foundation in weather science. By using types of clouds worksheets along with hands-on activities, you can make this topic…

Kindergarten math curriculum- SPORK education review
|

SPORK Education Review: A Gamified Kindergarten Math Curriculum

Looking for a way to make math fun and engaging for your kindergartener? SPORK Education’s kindergarten math curriculum combines interactive games and hands-on activities to help your child build a strong foundation in math, while keeping learning enjoyable. It’s perfect for families who want a playful yet effective approach to education.

European Famous Artists Unit Study
|

European Famous Artists Unit Study | 19-20th Centuries

We all know how overwhelming it is for homeschool parents to juggle multiple subjects or for a teacher to be swamped with lesson plans. So it’s not surprising that sometimes it’s easy for arts to get pushed aside. Maybe you’re unsure how to start introducing famous paintings, or talk about…

life cycle of a pumpkin unit study and activity book

Life Cycle of a Pumpkin Printable Activity Book | Tips & Resources

Ever wondered how to take your kids’ curiosity about pumpkins to the next level? If your household is anything like ours, pumpkins aren’t just for carving—they’re for exploring, investigating, and learning. From studying the pumpkin’s life cycle to dissecting one from the inside out, pumpkins offer a fantastic, hands-on way…

Educate Outside Review- Outdoor Classroom Activity Ideas for Kids

Educate Outside Review: Outdoor Classroom Activity Ideas for Kids

Inside: Educate Outside is an incredible platform offering hands-on outdoor classroom activity ideas for kids ages 4-12. With ready-made, easy-to-use lessons in math, science, and literacy, it’s perfect for homeschoolers, teachers, and co-ops. The activities require minimal prep, encourage teamwork and problem-solving, and foster a love for nature. As a…

6th grade spelling for advanced kids
|

100+ Spelling Words for 6th Graders | Tips and Strategies

Inside: Boost your 6th grader’s spelling skills with expert strategies, fun activities, and a free printable. Discover essential word lists and top resources for spelling success. In 6th grade, spelling takes on a whole new level of importance. As students transition into more advanced subjects, the words they encounter become…

Discovering Life's Story Review - Living Books for High School Biology

Why Discovering Life’s Story Is One Of The Perfect Living Books Series for High School Biology | Volume 2 Review

Inside: Joy Hakim’s Discovering Life’s Story series make amazing biology living books for high school students, blending science, history, and storytelling in a way that makes complex concepts engaging and accessible. This series turns biology into an inspiring, narrative-driven journey for students eager to explore deeper scientific learning. We naturally…

Percy Jackson Curriculum- The Greek Myths and Heroes Waldock Way- Review

Greek Mythology Unit Study- The Waldock Way Greek Heroes and Myths | Review

Inside: Get your kids excited about learning with The Waldock Way’s Greek Mythology Unit Study! This flexible, hands-on literature based unit study turns history and mythology into an unforgettable adventure for the whole family. Imagine your kids getting just as excited about schoolwork as they are about their favorite Percy…

homeschooling with bridgeway academy review

Homeschooling with Bridgeway Academy Review- The Most Flexible Accredited School

Post updated: August 2024 Inside: Discover an honest Bridgeway Academy review from a homeschooling mom of 6 years. Learn about their flexible programs, accreditation, and support. Find out if it’s the right fit for your family’s homeschooling journey. Navigating homeschooling can feel like exploring uncharted territory—there are so many choices,…

literary adventures for kids review- online book clubs

A Literary Adventures for Kids Review | Online Book Clubs

Inside: See how the online book clubs from Literary Adventures for Kids transformed our homeschool literature experience. Read my full review to see how this online program can help you turn reading into an exciting adventure again. I’ve always believed that book clubs needed a physical presence to be successful….

Homeschool Records online record keeping for homeschoolers

A Homeschool Records Review: Online Tools for Homeschool Records Keeping

Inside: Homeschool records keeping is essential for state compliance, college applications, and scholarships. As Marc enters 8th grade, managing high school credits becomes crucial. Homeschool Records is an online tool that simplifies this process with features like automated transcript generation, attendance tracking, and volunteer hour documentation. It’s user-friendly and ensures…

teaching kids about amino acids- ideas, games experiments printables

Biochemistry Cards and Game Ideas for Teaching Amino Acids

Never have I thought we would be doing chemistry in 4th grade, but we did. And then we followed it up with biochemistry just for fun. Sounds wild, right? But with the right approach, even complex subjects can become exciting adventures for kids. If you’re curious to know what biochemistry/chemistry…

scientific method worksheet unit study- teaching the scientific method- lab reports and experiments

Teaching Lab Reports and the Scientific Method Worksheet

Inside: Ever notice how science textbooks rush through the scientific method? This leaves kids confused and missing out on key skills. A simple scientific method worksheet isn’t enough to teach kids its importance, but I prepared a whole unit study to help you. Learn why mastering the scientific method, experiments,…

50 fun and affordable summer activities for teens

50 Fun Summer Activities for Teens | Summer Bucket List

Inside: Join me as we explore 50 creative and engaging summer activities for teens to reduce screen time and enhance their skills. From outdoor adventures to artistic projects, these ideas will keep your teen active and learning all summer. As a homeschooling mom of a 13-year-old, I understand the challenge…

How to teach kids about the water cycle diagram worksheets tips and printables

Teaching About the Water Cycle: A Free Water Cycle Diagram Worksheet

Teaching kids about the water cycle can be challenging due to its complex concepts and terminology. This guide provides strategies for explaining the water cycle to young learners, with visual aids, hands-on activities, and a free water cycle diagram worksheet to make learning engaging and effective. Suitable for 2nd to 8th graders, the Water Cycle Unit Study simplifies this essential science topic.

35 Fun Outdoor Scavenger Hunt Worksheets for All Ages

35 Fun Outdoor Scavenger Hunt Worksheets for All Ages

Inside: Feeling overwhelmed with planning scavenger hunts for your kids? Struggling to keep them excited and engaged? My collection of scavenger hunt worksheets is here to help! Perfect for all ages and situations, these printables offer fun, educational adventures right in your backyard or at the local park. Outdoor scavenger…

atomic theory timeline- The history and timeline of the atomic theory- printable

The Atomic Theory Timeline Project: Teach The Atom’s History

Inside: Discover how to transform the complex subject of atomic theory into an engaging adventure for curious minds. Explore hands-on activities, an atomic theory timeline, and interactive elements that make learning about atoms accessible and fun. Join us in uncovering the secrets of the atomic world! Have you ever watched…

heritage humanities review - online classical literature for kids

Classical Literature in the Digital Age| Heritage Humanities for Homeschoolers

Inside: Heritage Humanities transforms the rich, complex world of classical literature into something accessible and engaging for today’s digital natives. Diving into classical texts of English literature can often feel like navigating a labyrinth, especially for young learners. Marc’s recent experience with the CLT8 exam highlighted a significant gap in…

The moon phases worksheet freebie and moon unit study printable

How to Teach Kids about the Moon Phases| Worksheets and Tips

Inside: Explore the Moon with your kids through fun, hands-on activities, ideas, apps, videos, and free Moon phases worksheets. It’s a perfect blend of learning and play! Ever felt a bit lost when your child throws a tricky question your way? You’re in good company if your kids’ latest questions…

50 free end of the school year writing prompts for all ages

50 End of the Year Writing Prompts to Chronicle Your Past School Year

Can you believe we’re already saying goodbye to another school year? It’s that time again to hit the pause button, not just to gear up for what’s next, but to really soak in all that we’ve accomplished. To help with wrapping things but also to gather a glimpse into what…

Earth Day Reading Comprehension Worksheets

Earth Day Reading Comprehension Worksheets for Curious Minds: Nurture Environmental Literacy

Looking to bring more environmental consciousness in your homeschool? Find practical tips on learning about Earth Day hands-on and interdisciplinary and lots of resources like the Earth Day Reading Comprehension Worksheets to enrich the experience. There are so many ways to inspire the next generation of eco-conscious citizens! Keep reading to find them all.

The ultimate guide to teen entrepreneurship- Teen's Guide to making and selling upcycled arts and crafts book review

Cultivating Entrepreneurship for Teens: A Guide to Upcycled Crafts Business Success

Inside: Teen’s Guide to Making and Selling Upcycled Arts and Crafts emerges as a must-read for fostering entrepreneurship for teens. It demystifies the journey of business by combining real-world wisdom with actionable steps. Perfect for any teen with a business dream, it lays down the groundwork for success in the…

Is Mr d math worth it- review- algebra 2
|

Is Mr. D Math Worth It? A Comprehensive Three-Year Review

Join us as we review our 3 years with Mr. D Math. What began as a simple search for a good math curriculum ended up offering us so much more. Here, you’ll find a heartfelt account of how Mr. D Math not only elevated Marc’s math skills but also his self-confidence and passion for math. And we still find Mr D Math as the best math curriculum for homeschoolers. Find out why by reading more below.

How to make poetry fun for kids- 3rd grade poetry worksheets

How to Make Poetry Fun for Kids | Free 3rd Grade Poetry Worksheets

Poetry is an important component of any solid elementary language arts curriculum. But how can we make teaching it fun and engaging for young minds? As a homeschooling mom with over eight years of teaching experience, I’ve found poetry to be an excellent tool for enhancing vocabulary, encouraging creative writing,…

Plant sequencing worksheets and activities

From Seed to Bloom: Plant Life Cycle and Plant Sequencing Worksheets

Inside: Wondering how to teach sequencing or a plant life’s cycle to your little learners? My engaging Plant Sequencing Worksheet Bundle is perfect for introducing sequencing and chronological thinking to kids. Look at what’s inside, download the freebie, and read the article until the end because it is packed with…

Homeschool Planet review- the best online homeschool planner

The Only Online Homeschool Planner You’ll Ever Need | A Homeschool Planet Review

Inside: There are many online homeschool planners to choose from but what’s possibly the best homeschool planner? I think it’s Homeschool Planet because of its features and automation as well as its ease-of-use. Let’s talk about something close to my heart, planning. You know I love my paper planners but…

A guide to homeschool preschool

Starting Your Homeschool Preschool: A Child-Led Journey to Develop a Love for Learning

Inside: Ready to jump into homeschooling your preschooler with both feet? This guide’s packed with advice to make learning at home a long-term success for you and your preschooler. We’ll chat about why letting your kiddo lead the way with their curiosity can make all the difference but also about…

Can you homeschool an only child?

Benefits of Homeschooling an Only Child | Pros and Cons

Inside: Ever wondered what makes homeschooling an only child so special? Discover why homeschooling an only child tops the charts! Join us as we unravel the unique benefits and address some concerns. Learn why this might be the best decision you’ll ever make for your family’s future. Thinking about homeschooling…

Thematic learning- spring and valentine's day unit study and spring activity for kids
|

20+ Delightful Spring Activities for Kids and Valentine’s Day Unit Study Ideas❤️ | Thematic Learning

Inside: Looking for engaging Spring activities for kids and a Valentine’s Day Unit Study to sprinkle some fun and learning into your homeschool day? You’re in the right place. From engaging activity ideas to learning about myths and developing literacy and numeracy skills, this post has it all! Spring is…

socializing homeschoolers - myths and reality

Stop Overemphasizing Socializing Homeschoolers | The Teen Edition

Inside: Tackling the hot topic of socializing homeschoolers, this article navigates the delicate balance between actively seeking social opportunities and honoring the unique individuality of each homeschooled child. “What about socialization?” This omnipresent, cringey socialization question is often the first one you’ll hear when you start homeschooling. It’s been dubbed…

Book reports templatr and master guide by monkeyandmom
|

How to Excel at Junior High Book Reports: Free Book Report Template Inside!

Inside: Thinking of ditching book reports in junior high? Hold that thought! Book reports teach vital skills to teens. Learn how to quickly organize and effectively create comprehensive book reports by using my free book report template, a sample of my comprehensive The Ultimate Book Report Master Guide. In elementary…

The art of child led learning by monkey and mom

The Art of Child-Led Learning: A Homeschooling Trend Worth Following?

Inside: Ever wondered about the magic formula for instilling a lifelong love of learning in kids? The answer lies in balancing child-led learning with structured guidance. This approach creates a flexible yet focused educational experience that sparks curiosity and allows skills to develop at each child’s unique pace. When I…

Forbrain Review for teach foreign language acquisition- monkeyandmom
|

Forbrain Review – How We Teach a Foreign Language with a Twist

Our personal journey with Forbrain reveals significant improvements in language acquisition, especially in teaching a foreign language at home. This review delves into how Forbrain enhances speech, attention, memory, and boosts confidence in language learning, alongside tips and insights for homeschooling families. Find out how Forbrain, combined with tools like Rosetta Stone, can revolutionize your approach to homeschool language education.

Discovering Life's Story Review
|

Discovering Life’s Story Review (Vol. 1) | The History of Science

Reading is an important part of our homeschooling but it’s difficult to find those special, inspiring books that not only inform but also rouse curiosity. When it comes to STEM, my son’s passion knows no bounds (some of you know his interests). So, imagine my delight when I stumbled upon…

BookShark curriculum review level G
| |

Why We Chose BookShark Curriculum Level G for 7th Grade History and Language Arts | Review

From the very first moment I opened our BookShark curriculum box over a year ago, I had a strong feeling that this was a homeschooling gem we’d treasure for years to come. And I wasn’t wrong. Because, honestly, what’s not to love about it? If you love reading, you’ll love…

Online art classes for kids-Sparketh review2
|

Homeschool Art Classes for Kids- Connecting Through Art | Sparketh Review

Do you do art in your homeschool? Are you looking for an art curriculum for homeschool? If you’re looking for online art classes for kids to incorporate into your homeschool, you’ll want to consider Sparketh. This unique art curriculum has something special to offer, especially if you want a way…

Raise creators not consumers of tech- teach computer skills for kids monkeyandmom
|

Raise Creators, not Consumers of Tech | Teach Computer Skills for Kids

There’s a common misconception that kids can pick up all computer skills for kids on their own. We might assume that because our little ones are tech-savvy with iPads or our teens breeze through video games, they’re already tech experts and computer literate. But here’s a different way to think…

iugo.worldreview homeschool community

iugo.world Review | The Best Homeschool Community Hub

Homeschooling is a remarkable journey filled with opportunities, flexibility, and the ability to tailor learning to your children’s unique needs and interests. However, let’s be honest; it’s not all rainbows and sunshine. Whether you’re a seasoned homeschooling veteran or just starting out, there’s a common struggle that often goes unaddressed…

Self directed learning platform elephango review
|

Self directed learning with Elephango | Review

Homeschooling has introduced us to some unexpected yet delightful surprises, and one of the best revelations has been experiencing the power of self-directed learning firsthand. It’s truly inspiring to witness Marc delving into his own interests and taking his learning to new depths. We’ve been using BrainPop until recently, but…

self paced learning mr d math geometry
|

Mr D Math Geometry Review | Empowering Independence and Confidence

You know what terrifies me? High school math. 🤣 Yep, I’ve been there already, staring at those thick, intimidating textbooks, trying to remember what all those formulas even mean, and breaking a cold sweat. But then we stumbled upon something magical the self-paced math courses with Mr. D Math! Let…

harry potter homeschool unit study monkeyandmom
|

Harry Potter Unit Study: Waldock’s Wizards and Wands Review

Do you have Harry Potter fans? Do your kids wish for a Hogwarts homeschool? Then this post is for you. I’ve discovered an amazing Harry Potter unit study that has the potential to transform your muggle homeschool into a school of wizardry! Waldock’s Wizards and Wands from The Waldock Way…

The-Nomadic-professor-online-high-school-history-curriculum
|

One-of-a-Kind Unbiased High School History Curriculum | The Nomadic Professor Review

High school history curriculum. Are you considering any? Skipping history altogether? While it may be tempting to focus on more practical subjects, teaching high school history offers numerous benefits that extend far beyond this particular subject. While I am guilty of shoving history to the bottom of the priority list,…

How to teach multiplication to struggling students- dyscalculia math curriculum (1)
|

10 Tips for Teaching Multiplication to Struggling Students

After going through Algebra 1 and elementary math in our homeschool, I can say with certainty that teaching basic math is sometimes more difficult than Algebra 1. We had our fair share of hurdles in math, despite my rising 7th grader getting ready for high school Geometry for the upcoming…

Mastering Math the Singapore Way - singapore math dimensions- learning
|

Unlocking the Secrets of Singapore Math: Beyond Rote Memorization (Singapore Math Dimensions)

Are you curious about finding a more effective way to teach math to your child? Are you on the lookout for a curriculum that goes beyond mere rote memorization and fosters a genuine understanding of mathematical concepts? Then keep reading. As I reflect on our homeschooling journey, I can confidently…

vocabulary app wordela homeshcool review- boost your vocabulary skills
|

From Novice to Word Wizard! Wordela Homeschool Online Vocabulary App | Review

We all know vocabulary is an important tool in communication. But many times, in our homeschool, we tend to ignore teaching or implementing it. We assume children learn it from exposure, from great literature, and from all sorts of communication being carried around them. There are countless vocabulary curricula out…

greg landry homeschool science monkeyandmom
|

Greg Landry Homeschool Science – Life Prep Physics | Review (✞)

Finding the right science curriculum can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not well-versed in science yourself (🙋🏻‍♀️). Add a high schooler that hates science to the mix, so what should you choose for them? Greg Landry Homeschool Science provides a Christian-focused high school science curriculum for non-STEM learners….

college-alternatives-bruce-cloney-door-institution-review-monkeyandmom
|

College Alternative for Homeschoolers – Online Vocational Courses

Let’s face it: college isn’t the only path to success. There are plenty of alternatives to college that can lead to successful and fulfilling careers. I know many of us understand this, but we also worry because we want the best opportunities for our kids. That’s where online vocational courses…

IEW structure and style review - monkeyandmom
|

An IEW Structure and Style for Students Review – From Doubt to Confidence (VI)

Are you a homeschool mom struggling with reluctant or disorganized writers? For the past six blog posts, we’ve been looking at IEW Structure and Style for Students in a complete review of the homeschool writing curriculum that has the potential to revolutionize how we teach writing. We’re now at the…

10 IEW tools you wished you knew about sooner- monkeyandmom
|

10+ IEW Tools You Wish You Knew About| Enriching SSS (IV)

Did you know that you can enrich your writing experience by using various IEW tools regardless of the writing program you’re using? We’ve been using the Institute for Excellence in Writing for two years and I’m continually discovering new gems on their website. They have so many valuable tools for…

online unit studies from techie homeschool mom- famous inventors- monkeyandmom
| |

Boost Your Learning with the Online Unit Studies from Techie Homeschool Mom

You might have noticed I don’t talk much about interest-led studying or unit studies. That’s not because we aren’t doing interest-led, it’s because most of the time it goes unnoticed. I am not in the habit of spending hours to plan unit studies because Marc’s interests change quickly and he’s…

IEW comprehensive writing curriculum
|

The “Write” Way Forward: A Holistic Writing Curriculum | IEW (I)

Do you remember the last time you read something that truly captured your attention and held it until the very end? Writing is a powerful tool that allows us to communicate our ideas and connect with others, yet this essential skill has seen a decline over the past years. As…

IEW Structure and style for students monkeyandmom
|

What’s Inside IEW’s Structure and Style for Students? | Key Components (III)

We’ve already talked about IEW’s holistic approach to writing and seen how IEW teaches writing through the three programs it offers. Now let’s dive in and explore the components of Structure and Style for Students, a video-based writing program that has been consistently ranked among the best in the industry….

IEW writing programs - the truth about IEW
|

The Truth About IEW Writing Programs : SSS, TWSS, TBW (II)

Are you feeling confused or overwhelmed about all the options you have with IEW writing? Then you’re in the right place! We’ve talked about IEW’s holistic approach to writing and why that’s important when teaching writing, now let’s dive into the way IEW teaches writing, and the 3 different options…

All in one early learning platform for homeschoolers homeschool+ review monkeyandmom
| | |

Early Learning Made Easy with Homeschool+ {Review} | Adaptive Learning Platform

I vividly remember Marc’s first steps into the world of learning- it wasn’t always easy, and I didn’t always know what I was doing along the way. Now, as a middle schooler, he’s tackling subjects and concepts that are far beyond his years with excitement and curiosity. But it all…

Laugh and Learn Vocabulary by Wordup! The Vocab Show- review by monkeyandmom
|

Laugh and Learn with WordUp! The Vocab Show| Review | The Ultimate Vocabulary Booster

Never had I thought I would see my 6th grader excited to learn vocabulary! But this is what happened to us with WordUp! The Vocab Show, a gem of a vocabulary program that would spice up your cumbersome vocabulary lessons. In this review, I’ll share everything you need to know…

Study Skills Curriculum- 8 steps to powerful studying review by monkeyandmom
|

Revolutionize Your High Schooler’s Study Skills with “8 Steps to Powerful Studying” | Curriculum Review

We all want to set our high schoolers up for success, whether for college, a job, or being able to navigate life independently. But how do we ensure they have what it takes to be successful and organized? How do we teach competencies like study skills and time management skills…

Learning Language Arts Through Literature The Tan Book Review- 6th grade homeschool curriculum- monkeyandmom
|

The Tan Book Review | Learning Language Arts Through Literature {6th grade}

A real struggle over the years for us has been to find an all-in-one language arts curriculum that fits all the checklists: concise, easy to implement, affordable, and based on classical books. While there is no such thing as a perfect curriculum, Learning Language Arts Through Literature from Common Sense…

Top 5 Features all homeschool planners should have

The 5 Key Features A Homeschool Planner Should Have To Make Your Life Easier | Focused Planners

As homeschool moms, we all know how important it is to stay on top of things, to be organized, and to balance the various aspects of our life. Homeschooling is an amazing journey but also a big responsibility that requires planning and organizing. That’s why homeschool planners, whether paper or…

Thiel College- What are homeschool friendly colleges- monkeyandmom
|

Discover the Advantages of a Small College Education at Thiel College | A Homeschool Friendly College

Years seem to fly by so quickly! When we started homeschooling college was the last thought on my mind. College years seemed so far back then, but they are approaching fast now. There are so many variables to consider when thinking about colleges and so many options available that I…

Using Technology in your Homeschooling-monkeyandmom guest blog post

Technology in Your Homeschool | Techie Homeschool In Real Life -Guest Post Teaser & Giveaway!

Do you ever wonder how you can reap the benefits of technology in your homeschooling without compromising on the learning? How you could possibly turn technology into a helpful tool in your homeschool? It seems like an ongoing battle in many families, but I have a surprise for you! I…

choosing the best 6th grade homeschool curriculum

How to choose the best 6th grade homeschool curriculum | Eclectic curriculum

When it comes to choosing a 6th grade homeschool curriculum, it’s important to find one that works well for both you and your child. Keep in mind that there is no perfect curriculum, but you can come pretty close to perfection by selecting a combination that makes sense for both…

Our Planning Secrets | Homeschool Student Planner & How We Plan Our Homeschool Year  (part 2)

Our Planning Secrets | Homeschool Student Planner & How We Plan Our Homeschool Year (part 2)

Homeschool planning doesn’t have to be complicated or take a lot of time and I discovered that including kids in the planning process will make them more involved in their learning, giving them the opportunity to take learning into their own hands. My ultimate homeschooling goal is to get my…

EdisonLearnNow review homeschool science classes
|

Homeschool Science Curriculum – EdisonLearnNow Review

Science has always been M’s strong subject. He is devouring our homeschool science curricula and accelerating faster than with any other subject. While that’s amazing for him, it’s a constant source of stress for me because I always need to be on the lookout for more science curricula to keep…

Homeschool history curriculum choice for 6th grade- BooKshark History Level F Review
|

The Best Homeschool History Curriculum | BookShark Level F – Full Review (We ❤️ it!)

After 6 years of homeschooling, I can finally say I am head over heels in love with our curriculum choices, especially our homeschool history curriculum: Bookshark History Level F- Eastern Hemisphere. (Keep an eye out for the full reveal of our other 6th-grade choices, soon). Ok, this is the LONGEST…

Self paced,faith based classes for non science kids greg landry homeschool science membership review
|

Greg Landry’s Homeschool Science Membership – Self-paced science ✞

Do your children take notes? Mine hates the idea. But I couldn’t learn any other way. And I am so grateful I can access resources like Greg Landry’s self-paced science that puts the accent on HOW to learn. Because once you know how to learn, you can learn anything! Greg…

education perfect review supplement your learning
|

Finding and Filling Learning Gaps- Education Perfect Review

Homeschooling, just like regular school, will inevitably leave some learning gaps. But how do we find these? And most importantly, how do we fill them? There are various ways to discover these gaps, from a casual conversation (where you discover your homeschooler doesn’t know what erosion is 😒) to testing….

BrainPOP Homeschool Review
|

Our favorite educational platform – BrainPOP Homeschool Review

One of the best homeschooling investments you could make is to get access to a good online educational platform. This would serve either as a launch pad for introducing new topics or starting new curiosities or as a supplemental resource hub when you get stuck. I’ve written about multiple platforms…

10 Summer Ideas for Homeschooling Fun & Exploration Ideas

10 Summer Ideas for Homeschooling Fun & Exploration – part 2

Because I promised we don’t only do academic stuff during the summer, here’s part two of our plans for the next couple of months. I condensed them into 10 summer ideas for homeschooling fun and exploration. You can read about our planner, summer learning, activities, and why we chose to…

independent hands-on science curriculum form heron books circulation of the blood review by monkeyandmom
|

Independent Science Curriculum – Heron Books- Circulation of the Blood Review

Science isn’t an easy subject to teach at home. Many times parents place it at the bottom of the list because there’s not enough time for it or they don’t know how to tackle it. The perfect solution to this dilemma is to get an independent science curriculum. Kids will…

getting online high school credits and college readiness by monkeyandmom
|

Getting Online High School Credits and College Readiness

Maybe I’m ahead of myself, but lately, I’ve started reading more and more about online high school credits, college credits, and AP courses in order to get a clearer picture of our path ahead. I know it all seems very complicated, but once you understand where you’re going things are…

Easy to use writing curriculum Wordsmith Apprentice review by monkeyandmom
|

Easy-to-use Writing Curriculum by Common Sense Press- Wordsmith Apprentice Review

Do your kids enjoy writing? I know a lot of homeschoolers are struggling with this subject, us included. That’s why I am constantly testing out programs and looking out for a writing curriculum that would encourage, hone, and teach proper writing skills to M. And hopefully not make him shed…

Timeline Figures and how to use them – Home School in the Woods review
|

Timeline Figures and how to use them – Home School in the Woods review

Over the years I’ve been hoarding a lot of materials to use for history. The problem I have now is tying them all up to paint a broader picture. This is where timelines and timeline figures come in. The latest addition to our collection, the timeline figures from Amy Pak,…

Literature-Based History Curriculum – Level D Intro to American History from Sonlight
| |

Literature-Based History Curriculum – Level D Intro to American History from Sonlight

When it comes to history, I didn’t want to fall into the single-point-of-view trap. That’s why I decided to switch our whole approach to a literature-based homeschool history curriculum. Reading different accounts of an event would create a broader picture of what actually happened and provide us with the chance…

unplugged computer science camp in bucharest iobotics 2022
|

How about summer camps? – IObotics Unplugged Computer Science in Bucharest

This post will be different because it’s location-specific, but the idea behind it is so cool that it could serve as an inspiration for people worldwide: Unplugged Computer Science. We all know the woe with computer classes. They add up to the screen time which is at higher and higher…

Allschool online live classes, highly interactive and gamified review by monkeyandmom
|

Online, Live Classes for Homeschoolers with Allschool

Whether you’re a homeschooler that prefers online learning or not, you’ll inevitably end up with a couple of online live classes as your children grow. We don’t always find the classes we’re looking for nearby and some children want to learn about weird stuff like the mantis shrimp or what’s…

Evan Moor History Pockets Review Ancient Rome by monkeyandmom
|

Interactive History Lessons with History Pockets from Evan Moor

One subject I cannot recall much about from school is history. Boring textbooks and dry teachers didn’t help me develop an interest in it and I wish they had the materials to present an interactive history to us back then. Thankfully, homeschoolers nowadays have so many options for history and…

Science Lessons and Investigations grade 6 evan moor - project based science curriculum monkeyandmom review
|

Project-Based Science Curriculum – Science Lessons & Investigations

A problem a lot of science programs have is that most lack critical thinking skills. This problem would be easily solved with a good project-based science curriculum, and that’s what we just found! Even if M is advanced in science, an aspect I felt lacking was the scientific method implementation….

PAC review paradigm accelerated curriculum
|

Gain English Communication Skills with PAC-High School Curriculum | Homeschool Review

The English communication skills curriculum I am writing about today is aimed at high schoolers and it’s not our regular choice. I know we only just completed our 5th grade and started planning for middle school, but I am always on the lookout for new curriculum, so I was curious…

The Best Grammar Curriculum for Homeschoolers | Fix it Grammar Review  {4th edition}
|

The Best Grammar Curriculum for Homeschoolers | Fix it Grammar Review {4th edition}

Updated: March 26, 2024 Inside: Fix It! Grammar is a one-of-a-kind grammar curriculum for homeschoolers because it transforms traditional grammar lessons into engaging, story-based adventures. Kids learn grammar and editing skills in context without even realizing they are actually learning the complexities of language. This is why the Fix It!…

Music classes online with Great Bend Monkeyandmom review
|

Online Music Classes with Great Bend Center for Music HighKey Kids™

Music is uplifting and a necessary outlet for emotions at every age. But many communities don’t have access to quality music lessons. That’s where online music classes might be a good option for families worldwide. I’ve already written about why I introduced music into our regular curriculum, and why I…

Homeschool Music Learning  with My Rock Online – Guitar Lessons
|

Homeschool Music Learning with My Rock Online – Guitar Lessons

I recently realized that I’ve made a mistake by mostly ignoring homeschool music learning. Since M didn’t show any special interest in music, I just let it slide. Thankfully, it’s never too late to learn how to play an instrument and there are so many options today, saving you time…

academic vocabulary evan moor review monkeyandmom
|

Academic Vocabulary-Take Your Homeschool Vocabulary Further with Evan Moor

While we can learn new vocabulary by reading, and M is a voracious reader, I still feel that we need to work on it diligently, year after year. But an aspect that I feel isn’t covered enough by just reading literary works is academic vocabulary. If you’re like me, you’re…

10 ways of binding homeschool books at home monkeyandmom

How to Bind Homeschool Books: 10 Affordable DIY Methods Every Parent Should Know

As a homeschooling parent, you’ve likely encountered the need to bind your children’s workbooks and books to keep everything organized and prevent papers from flying everywhere. Fortunately, there are several cost-effective DIY binding methods you can explore. In this article, we’ll delve into 10 different ways to bind homeschool books…

Evan Moor Building Spelling Skills Review mionkeyandmom homeschool spelling curriculum
|

Easy-to-Implement Spelling Curriculum- Evan Moor’s Building Spelling Skills

Spelling skills are an important part of our homeschool. We’ve tried numerous programs over the years and all had good and bad parts. Despite the fact that Marc is a great speller, we will continue with spelling instruction because I feel he would still benefit from it. Of course, we…

Minimal Expenses Homeschool

How to find cheap books and textbooks for homeschooling

Homeschooling internationally and particularly buying books and textbooks, isn’t cheap. But by researching and choosing wisely, you can keep your expenses minimal while still getting all the books you need. Because a new homeschooling year is looming closer, I decided to write about how I manage to keep costs down…

Mentor junior
|

Mentor Junior review- a great option for finding mentors for free

Mentor Junior came to our life when M. started delving deeper and deeper into chemistry. I knew I was out of my league and I asked for help in my homeschooling group. They all helped me brainstorm and someone stumbled upon this lovely website. About Mentor Junior Mentor Junior (Mentor…

4th grade book reports template by monkey and mom
|

How We Do Book Reports- 4th Grade Literature

What do you do for literature? Do you do book reports for 4th grade? This year, after discussing with our teacher, we decided to take a different approach to the traditional comprehension questions by focusing on book reports instead. Marc doesn’t like writing, and writing composition is difficult for him….

Homeschooling Beginner guide

Homeschooling 101 – The Homeschooling Beginner Guide

Inside: Beginning homeschooling might feel overwhelming and scary, but with a little research and armed with some good resources for both parents and kids, you can start to carve your own path in this wonderful world of homeschooling. In the current global climate, homeschooling has emerged as a viable and…

How to homeschool in Europe- Accredited Schools or Umbrella Schools

Homeschooling in Europe – Picking an Accredited or an Umbrella School

Inside: Considering Homeschooling in Europe? You might need to choose an umbrella or accredited school But among the many options, which one should you choose? This article explains the differences between the various types of schools and what accreditations to look for. Homeschooling in Europe isn’t always straightforward. Fortunately, if…

4th grade language arts secular curriculum - eclectic
|

Our 4th Grade Language Arts Curriculum Choices for Secular, Eclectic Homeschoolers

Inside: The main challenge for eclectic homeschoolers is to balance all the bits and pieces and create a functional curriculum, but language arts always seems to be the hardest to piece together because so many pieces overlap. Keep reading to find out how we pieced together our 4th grade language…

8 geography curriculum ideas for 4th grade
|

8 Engaging 4th Grade Geography Curriculum Ideas for Homeschooling

Inside: An engaging curriculum for 4th grade geography is a combination of books and hands-on resources. Read on to find out more details about each of them and get more ideas you can incorporate in your geography study for 4th grade. Welcome to our journey through 4th grade geography! As…