30 Must-Have Educational Toys for 6-Year-Old Boys – Perfect for Homeschooling

30 Must-Have Educational Toys for 6-Year-Old Boys – Perfect for Homeschooling

ByLaura

In my latest blog about educational toys for 6 year old boys we dive into the world of educational toys that make homeschooling a joy for kids in elementary! As a seasoned homeschooling mom, I understand the challenge of finding toys that are not only fun but also enrich our children’s learning experience. This time, I’ve curated a list that includes must-have math tools, language arts enhancers, and STEM toys that Marc and many children have loved and benefited from over the years.

From the simple joy of measuring things with a real tape measure to the complexities of coding with Botley, the coding robot, we’re exploring how each toy opens a new door to learning. We discuss how tangible math manipulatives like Cuisenaire rods bring abstract concepts to life and how language arts can be made more engaging through creative tools like Rory’s Story Cubes and magnetic letters.

This post is particularly special as it not only provides practical tips and product insights but also shares our personal experiences with each toy. Whether you’re a homeschool veteran or new to the journey, these tools will bring a fresh perspective to your teaching methods.

Dive into our blog to discover how these educational toys can transform your homeschooling experience, making learning an adventure for your child. Remember, the right toy can ignite a spark of curiosity that lasts a lifetime!

Don’t forget to check out our full post for a comprehensive list of over 30 educational games and toys perfect for 6-year-olds. Let’s make learning fun and effective!

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

ByLaura

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

ByLaura

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 a true gem that not…

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

ByLaura

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 BookShark. As a family that…

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

ByLaura

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 to connect with kids through…

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

ByLaura

“There’s a common misconception that kids can pick up all computer skills 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 about it: being consumers of technology is not the same as being creators of technology.

In today’s article, let’s dive into what it really means for kids to be creators of (and with) technology. We’ll chat about teaching them basic computer skills and I share some ideas to help you get started, including a freebie you don’t want to miss.

Plus, I’ll circle back to my old favorite, MYTEK LAB, for raising tech-confident creators who are ready for anything.”

iugo.world Review | The Best Homeschool Community Hub
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iugo.world Review | The Best Homeschool Community Hub

ByLaura

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 – homeschool loneliness. It’s that…

Self directed learning with Elephango | Review
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Self directed learning with Elephango | Review

ByLaura

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 Marc has outgrown them and…

Mr D Math Geometry Review | Empowering Independence and Confidence
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Mr D Math Geometry Review | Empowering Independence and Confidence

ByLaura

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 me tell you, it has…

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

ByLaura

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 is a magical curriculum that…

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

ByLaura

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, I am also here to…

10 Tips for Teaching Multiplication to Struggling Students
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10 Tips for Teaching Multiplication to Struggling Students

ByLaura

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 school year, and one of…

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

ByLaura

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 credit Marc’s success in math…

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

ByLaura

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 there, and we might go…

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

ByLaura

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. In this review, I’ll be…

College Alternative for Homeschoolers – Online Vocational Courses
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College Alternative for Homeschoolers – Online Vocational Courses

ByLaura

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 come in. They offer specialized…

Too Repetitive??? Discover IEW SSS Level A: 1A vs. 2A (V)
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Too Repetitive??? Discover IEW SSS Level A: 1A vs. 2A (V)

ByLaura

Get ready for another exciting chapter in my IEW review journey! Today, we’re diving deep into a thorough comparison of IEW SSS Level A Year 1 and Year 2. Wit this, I want to address a common fear of parents when talking about Structure and Style curriculum. Is it too repetitive? Since we’ve completed both…

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

ByLaura

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 end of this Structure and…

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

ByLaura

Did you know that you can enrich your writing experience by using various IEW tools? We’ve been using the Institute for Excellence in Writing for two years and I’m continually discovering new gems on their website. I truly feel like I’m on a treasure hunt every time I browse IEW’s shop. We’re well into our…

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

ByLaura

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 usually skipping from one topic…

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

ByLaura

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 we strive to equip the…

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

ByLaura

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. But wait, there’s more! In…

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

ByLaura

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 that you have with IEW…

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

ByLaura

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. Looking back, I realize how crucial those early…

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

ByLaura

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 about WordUp! The Vocab Show…

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

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

ByLaura

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? How do we teach them…

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

ByLaura

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 Press has come pretty close…

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

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

ByLaura

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 digital, are a must-have in…

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

ByLaura

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 feel I should start informing…

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

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

ByLaura

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 teamed up with other blogers…

Valentine’s Day Free Printables For Your Homeschool ❤️
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Valentine’s Day Free Printables For Your Homeschool ❤️

ByLaura

Valentine’s Day is a special time of year when we show our loved ones how much we care. For homeschoolers, this is a great opportunity to incorporate fun and educational activities into their curriculum. If you’re a parent looking for Valentine’s Day free printables for your students, look no further! I’ve put together a list…

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

ByLaura

Homeschool planning doesn’t have to be complicated or take a lot of time and I’ve 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 son to be an independent…

Homeschool Science Curriculum – EdisonLearnNow Review
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Homeschool Science Curriculum – EdisonLearnNow Review

ByLaura

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 him engaged and going forward….

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

ByLaura

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 article I’ve written to date…

Types of Planners- Planning Your Homeschool Year (part 1)
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Types of Planners- Planning Your Homeschool Year (part 1)

ByLaura

A question I get asked the most during this period is “How do you plan your homeschool year? And what types of planners do you use?” As much as I would love to give you all a universal recipe for this, there is nothing like one size fits all when it comes to planning– just…

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

ByLaura

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 Landry’s Homeschool Science Membership I’ve…

Finding and Filling Learning Gaps- Education Perfect Review
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Finding and Filling Learning Gaps- Education Perfect Review

ByLaura

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. Learning Gaps Before we…

Our favorite educational platform – BrainPOP Homeschool Review
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Our favorite educational platform – BrainPOP Homeschool Review

ByLaura

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 we love and use but…

10 Summer Ideas for Homeschooling Fun & Exploration – part 2
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10 Summer Ideas for Homeschooling Fun & Exploration – part 2

ByLaura

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 keep a schedule during the…

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

ByLaura

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 learn on their own, at…

Getting Online High School Credits and College Readiness
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Getting Online High School Credits and College Readiness

ByLaura

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 becoming clearer. Please note that…

Summer Homeschooling- Academic Learning & Planning -part 1
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Summer Homeschooling- Academic Learning & Planning -part 1

ByLaura

This will be the first summer since we started homeschooling that we will take a break from our regular schedule. It feels odd, but we will still be doing summer homeschooling in a different, more relaxed way. I felt that the passage from elementary to middle school is worthy of a longer break and I…

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

ByLaura

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 any tears of frustration. Writing…

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

ByLaura

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, got me so giddy with…

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

ByLaura

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 history curriculum. Reading different accounts of an event would create a broader picture of what actually happened and provide us with the chance to talk about it openly. Add…

Why Cursive Handwriting Is Important – And You Can Teach It
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Why Cursive Handwriting Is Important – And You Can Teach It

ByLaura

Many experts say it, and I agree: cursive handwriting is an important skill to have. I am saddened to see that more and more US schools have given up on cursive handwriting. I have already written about how to turn reluctant writers around and what I recommend for starting writing at home; from fine motor…

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

ByLaura

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 rates among kids, to begin…

Teach by Dennis DiNoia Review- Homeschooling Books Worth Reading
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Teach by Dennis DiNoia Review- Homeschooling Books Worth Reading

ByLaura

You know… I never read many books about homeschooling. I feel many of them don’t apply to us. Or they are too technical or cumbersome to read and apply. But Teach by Dennis DiNoia was different. I’ve read several over the years and while I finished some, others are still waiting with the bookmark halfway…

Online, Live Classes for Homeschoolers with Allschool
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Online, Live Classes for Homeschoolers with Allschool

ByLaura

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 inside a volcano. Sure, pulling…

Interactive History Lessons with History Pockets from Evan Moor
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Interactive History Lessons with History Pockets from Evan Moor

ByLaura

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 so many channels to attract…

Project-Based Science Curriculum – Science Lessons & Investigations
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Project-Based Science Curriculum – Science Lessons & Investigations

ByLaura

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. I never had much patience…

Online Dance Classes with YouDance – PE at home
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Online Dance Classes with YouDance – PE at home

ByLaura

One of the struggles I’ve had in the last years, while homeschooling, has been keeping up with P.E. because anything I picked was boring and repetitive. But enter online dance classes – they changed our weekly routine completely! I was a bit skeptical about learning to dance online since I know it requires a lot…

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

ByLaura

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 to see how M would…

Easy Grammar Learning | Fix it Grammar Review {4th edition}
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Easy Grammar Learning | Fix it Grammar Review {4th edition}

ByLaura

I find writing about language arts hard because language arts has so many parts to it. Grammar learning, vocabulary, literature, spelling, and composition all sound like learning different subjects. And in a sense, it is. I’ve noticed early on, that LA was made up of sub-subjects and we had to take them apart in order…

Programming Skills with MYTEK LAB Online Classes
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Programming Skills with MYTEK LAB Online Classes

ByLaura

We all know that in today’s world, programming skills are an important asset, no matter the field you choose to work in. I know I am not the only one stressing out about my son’s readiness for the world. I’m trying hard to predict what skills will be in high demand in 10 years and…

The Best Math Curriculum – Mr D Math Pre Algebra
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The Best Math Curriculum – Mr D Math Pre Algebra

ByLaura

Do your kids dance when they hear it’s time for math? Since we discovered the best math curriculum, M is dancing every time I hit play on a math video. But it hasn’t always been so easy. Until stumbling over this perfect math solution, I had a situation with math. You’ve probably been through this…

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

ByLaura

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 think I’ve made a mistake…

Homeschool Music Learning with My Rock Online – Guitar Lessons
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Homeschool Music Learning with My Rock Online – Guitar Lessons

ByLaura

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 and money: from apps to…

Social Emotional Learning at Home with Hey Kiddo – Huddle
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Social Emotional Learning at Home with Hey Kiddo – Huddle

ByLaura

We all know how important social-emotional learning is for our children. But even when we notice they need help, it might be hard for us to find ways to get through to them. What questions do we ask? Where do we even start? It’s hard to believe that communication can sometimes be so difficult to…

Academic Vocabulary-Take Your Homeschool Vocabulary Further with Evan Moor
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Academic Vocabulary-Take Your Homeschool Vocabulary Further with Evan Moor

ByLaura

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 avoiding vocabulary curricula that have…

STEM at Home with STEMWerkz App
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STEM at Home with STEMWerkz App

ByLaura

We’ve all heard about STEM/ STEAM/ STEMM, since these terms are being circulated quite a bit. It’s another matter when it comes to implementing them. That’s why I am excited to show you a new app great for kids as young as 5, which offers parents the opportunity to implement STEM at home. I’m happy…

Homeschool Geography with Daily Geography Practice 6 from Evan Moor
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Homeschool Geography with Daily Geography Practice 6 from Evan Moor

ByLaura

I have to admit that our homeschool geography is mostly done on the fly. It’s not a perfect setting, but I didn’t feel the need for more so far. Read about how we did geography in 4th grade to see what materials we pieced together. This is a post in the series The Dailies from…

Homeschool Anatomy Curriculum- Dr Robin’s School Review
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Homeschool Anatomy Curriculum- Dr Robin’s School Review

ByLaura

Are you on the lookout for a new, comprehensive homeschool anatomy curriculum? Then this post is for you! Oh, you will love this find! What I love about homeschooling is that there is no limit to what you can learn! No age limit, no curriculum limit, no time limit. Unlike traditional school, homeschooled children can…

Homeschool Science Labs – Online or Offline
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Homeschool Science Labs – Online or Offline

ByLaura

Science isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. But as many homeschool parents realize, it’s an important part of homeschooling. We might wing it during elementary, but what about those homeschool science labs for middle and high school? Fear not, for there are several solutions to these labs, including making your own lab at home or choosing…

Homeschool Science Supplement- Daily Science 6 Review
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Homeschool Science Supplement- Daily Science 6 Review

ByLaura

Staying consistent with science can be a struggle, that’s where a homeschool science supplement comes in handy. Some days you just can’t stick to your plan no matter how much you try. Life happens, there are appointments, sick days, unplanned activities, or you just do not feel up for school. Our priorities always seem to…

How to Bind Homeschool Books: 10 Affordable DIY Methods
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How to Bind Homeschool Books: 10 Affordable DIY Methods

ByLaura

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 at home, catering to various…

Career Path Exploration and Motivation for Teens -TruSpark
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Career Path Exploration and Motivation for Teens -TruSpark

ByLaura

Ah, the windy, mysterious career path(s)! Grown-ups ask children all the time “what do you want to be when you grow up?” but how many of us actually help them find out what’s the career path that suits them or what educational path will help them shine? And how many of us, homeschooling parents, know…

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

ByLaura

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 M is a great speller, we will continue with spelling instruction because I feel he would still benefit from it. Evan Moor sponsored this review by offering me…

CTC Math: The Best Comprehensive Guide | Is this math curriculum right for you?
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CTC Math: The Best Comprehensive Guide | Is this math curriculum right for you?

ByLaura

Have you ever wondered if you could delegate math? What math curriculum is perfect for busy parents and large families on a budget? CTC Math might be the one for you. Read my full overview to find out if it’s the right fit for your family.

Schoolwork refusal and how to motivate kids
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Schoolwork refusal and how to motivate kids

ByLaura

This is something we’ve all gone through. There are good days, but a lot of them seem dreadful, dragging on forever. You spent a lot of time planning and choosing the best materials, things seem to go well for a while and then you’re met with a schoolwork refusal. Here are some possible reasons for…

Writing- oh, the horror! Reluctant writers tips
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Writing- oh, the horror! Reluctant writers tips

ByLaura

I know some kids love writing… I know some are great story-tellers. This post is not for them. <3 This post is for the struggling parents and kids. You know who you are. You pull out a worksheet for your 7,8,9,10 year old. It has a lot of “multiple choice” but at the very bottom,…

How to find cheap books and textbooks for homeschooling
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How to find cheap books and textbooks for homeschooling

ByLaura

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 while getting the best curricula…

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

ByLaura

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 Jr.) is a FREE tutoring…

How we do book reports- 4th grade literature
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How we do book reports- 4th grade literature

ByLaura

This year, instead of choosing a curriculum for comprehension, I discussed with our teacher and decided that we would do book reports instead. She helped us choose 4 books and we picked: Around the World in 80 Days (from Bookdepository- our version is not available anymore) Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH (from Bookdepository)…

Homeschooling 101 – The Homeschooling Beginner Guide
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Homeschooling 101 – The Homeschooling Beginner Guide

ByLaura

Are you a complete homeschooling beginner? Then this post is for you. I know with the worldwide situation right now, more and more parents are starting to consider homeschooling. But where to start? Grab a notebook and pencil and start your serious research into every topic below. These are just starting points that would guide…

MEL Chemistry- subscription review
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MEL Chemistry- subscription review

ByLaura

When M started getting more and more interested in chemistry I knew the time had come to look into MEL Science’s Chemistry kits. I was watching them for a while and I was fascinated by the idea! So for Christmas last year, M got a MEL Chemistry subscription! He was soooo excited when he received…

History Quest – a secular history curriculum review
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History Quest – a secular history curriculum review

ByLaura

Since Pandia Press just pre-released their second volume of History Quest, I decided to write about their history curriculum. I like it a lot and M is waiting eagerly for me to print the second volume and start reading. So far, there is only one complete volume (Early Times) which also comes with a Study…

Cuisenaire Rods – awesome math manipulatives
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Cuisenaire Rods – awesome math manipulatives

ByLaura

One of the best math investments for us were the Cuisenaire Rods. You simply can’t fail with them.We’ve been using them successfully for most of our elementary years and you can even go beyond that if your kids still need them to illustrate more complex concepts. What are Cuisenaire Rods? Cuisenaire Rods are small wooden…

4th-grade Curriculum Picks for 2020
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4th-grade Curriculum Picks for 2020

ByLaura

These are our 4th grade curriculum picks for 2020. Getting ready for a new homeschooling year is work in progress all year round. I am always on the lookout for new curricula, better programs and offers but the real prep work starts at least 2 months before we start our new school year. Here’s how…

Homeschooling in Europe – picking an accredited or an umbrella school
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Homeschooling in Europe – picking an accredited or an umbrella school

ByLaura

Homeschooling in Europe and particularly in Romania – picking an accredited school or going the umbrella school way? I will tell you about our choices and my research in the matter. If you are a complete beginner and unsure of the steps to homeschool. check my article on Homeschooling 101 for helpful tips. There are…

Homeschooling with Bridgeway Academy Review- The Most Flexible School
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Homeschooling with Bridgeway Academy Review- The Most Flexible School

ByLaura

We’ve been homeschooling with Bridgeway Academy for almost 2 years now and we couldn’t be happier. Here’s our review and experience with them. UPDATE 2022: Since this post has been useful to so many parents, here are some changes that Bridgeway Academy rolled in since I wrote this post: there are 3 required Scantron tests…

The 3 best tools for homeschooling – printer, binder, laminator
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The 3 best tools for homeschooling – printer, binder, laminator

ByLaura

The printer, binder, and laminator are the best tools we use for our homeschooling. They help us stay organized and save time and money. 1. Printers First on the list are the printers. They are indispensable which makes them the one of best tools for your homeschooling needs. You will find yourself in the situation…

Picking the right microscope for your homeschooling
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Picking the right microscope for your homeschooling

ByLaura

Picking the right microscope for your homeschooling depends on what you need. Here’s how we picked ours and what to look for when picking your own microscope.

Language arts for 4th grade- homeschooling
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Language arts for 4th grade- homeschooling

ByLaura

Here are our language arts choices for 4th grade this year. I am including photos and details about each book and how we use them. To see our complete list of curriculum for 4th grade, please head on to this blog post. Curriculum list for Language Arts 4th Grade: GRAMMAR: Fix it Grammar The Noose…

Geography curriculum for 4th grade
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Geography curriculum for 4th grade

ByLaura

Our geography curriculum for 4th grade this year is a combination of books and hands-on resources. Read on to find out more details about each of them or check this post to see what curriculum we chose for 4th grade for the rest of the subjects. This is the first year we will do any…