Category: Family

Family, Hemiplegia, Homeschool, Neurodivegent, Reviews

Homeschooling with Forbrain to Improve Focus!

Little Learner and Mom

We received Forbrain Headset for our honest paid review.

The Forbrain Headset presents itself as a promising companion for homeschooling, offering a blend of comfort, audio quality, and convenience. In this review, we’ll delve into how this headset caters to the unique needs of homeschooling environments. Forbrain uses 30+ years of auditory stimulation research to improve speech, attention, and memory.

Forbrain is recommended for children aged 3 years and used for 15 minutes daily. In order to see results it should be used for 6–8 weeks followed by a one-month break. As a rule, you should consult therapists and medical physicians when using my son, who has epilepsy and hemiplegia. One of the medical issues that comes with a child diagnosed with Hemiplegia is memory loss, executive functioning skills, and concentration. Using Forbrain over the last few weeks I have seen some improvements and hope to see more in the coming weeks.

Forbrain’s

– Amplifies specific patterns of the voice, making it clearer and more impactful.

– Bone Conduction Transducers that enhance sound transmission via the temporal bones. 

– Microphone that captures the sound waves of the wearer’s voice

– It has two secondary components too

– Additional microphone that can be used by a teacher or therapist or parent during training sessions with the kids

– Headphone jack that can be used to listen to audio recordings of online videos

Comfort and Design:

The comfort of the Forbrain Headset stands out, making it ideal for long homeschooling sessions. The adjustable headband and plush ear cups ensure a snug fit without causing discomfort, allowing students to focus on their studies without distraction.

Audio Quality:

The headset’s audio quality is a standout feature for homeschooling. Clear and crisp sound reproduction enhances the online learning experience, making virtual classes more engaging. The immersive sound also aids in concentration during independent study sessions.

Microphone and Performance:

For interactive online classes, the Forbrain comes equipped with a high-quality microphone. Clear voice transmission and effective noise cancellation ensure that students can participate actively without being hindered by background distractions. The headset seamlessly connects to various devices commonly used in homeschooling setups. Whether it’s a laptop, tablet, or smartphone, the Forbrain provides reliable connectivity, eliminating compatibility concerns. In the context of homeschooling, where sessions can be lengthy, the headset’s impressive battery life is a significant advantage. Extended use is not a concern, ensuring uninterrupted learning and communication.

User-Friendly Controls and Durable Build

Intuitive controls, including volume adjustment and a mute button, make the Forbrain user-friendly. These features add convenience, allowing students to manage their audio experience effortlessly. The durable build of the headset instills confidence in its longevity. The materials used are of high quality, and the foldable design adds to its portability, making it easy to store when not in use.

How We Used

We used Forbrain while he did his writing and math assignments. He also used it when he was reading his lessons. What I noticed with his writing assignments is that his sentence structure was better when I asked him to reread his writing out loud. He was better able to decipher when his usage of words was incorrect. Reading comprehension also improved. Mathematical computing and understanding greatly improved. My son is also neurodivergent and Forbrain has helped with executive function skills and impulses.

Memory loss is one of the issues that my son sometimes struggles with, so I have been using Forbrain as a way to aid him when I give him instructions I need him to execute.

Price and Value:

Considering its features, the Forbrain offers excellent value for its price. It competes well with other headsets in its category, providing a cost-effective solution for homeschooling needs.

Conclusion:

The Forbrain proves to be a reliable and versatile tool for homeschooling. Its emphasis is on comfort, audio quality, and practical features. With this headset, Forbrain has crafted a product that meets the demands of the modern homeschooling environment. At the time of this review, my followers can save 10% off their purchase through December 31st using the code IHN10. Be sure to check out Forbrain if you would like to learn more. As a special Black Friday sale you can save 20%!

Family, Family Life, Homeschool, Parenting

Beehive App Homeschooling and Parenting Simplified

Little Learner and Mom

We received Beehive App for our honest paid review.

Staying organized is so hard to do. I am always looking for ways to maximize and simplify my time throughout the day. Trying to juggle three people’s schedules, appointments, and homeschool can be quite and undertaking. I do love a good planner, I have several because the seasons in our home change often. Beehive app has been helping me the last few weeks to manage our homeschool and simplify our day.

Beehive App

Beehive is a parenting app designed to simplify the lives of busy parents. With Beehive, you can manage your family’s schedule, create to-do lists, and keep track of important information all in one place. The app is user-friendly and intuitive, making it easy to navigate even for those who are not tech-savvy.

One of the standout features of Beehive is the ability to create and share a family calendar. You can add events and appointments, set reminders, and even invite other family members to join and contribute to the calendar. This ensures that everyone is on the same page and avoids any scheduling conflicts.

Beehive also allows you to create to-do lists for yourself or your family members. You can assign tasks, set deadlines, and even track progress. This makes it easy to stay on top of household chores and other responsibilities.

How It Work for Us

My son takes several online classes throughout the month. While it easy to schedule and pay for these classes, keeping track of them can be stressful. I don’t know how many times I have forgotten about classes and had reschedule them it just lost money. Beehive App has made things a little less chaotic the last few weeks. I have gotten in the habit as soon as I schedule a class for him I input it into the Beehive App and I have been making it a habit to check the app daily.

I am really like the the ability to record my son grades and see the graphed in real time. The added math growth plan is really great because my son has been jumping on when we are between lessons or when he is eating breakfast.

Beehive App Growth Plan

What is unique about Beehive it isn’t just an app for tracking grades, events and memories. The app has practice lessons for your students to complete at their own pace. These lesson are based upon their grade level when you set up your student. After you record six grades into your school section, the app will generate a growth plan activities in:

  • Math
  • Reading
  • Science
  • Writing
  • Social Studies

At the time of this review we are working on the math growth and I am looking forward to seeing the other subjects generate over the next few weeks.

Household Management Simplified

Household management can be a lot of work, especially when you have a busy schedule. Beehive has been a great app for me to able to add events going on with me and my husband. There are so many event topics you can use in the daily activities. The Beehive app is is really convenient when I don’t have my big planner with me when I am out. Beehive app is available in the Apple and Google Play store.

Overall, Beehive is a great app for busy parents who want to simplify their lives and stay organized. With its user-friendly interface and useful features, it’s definitely worth checking out.

Education, Family, Homeschool, Homeschool Family, Homeschool Socialization

Homeschool socialization isn’t a problem for our homeschool with so many options.

Little Learner and Mom

We received Kaipod Learning for our honest paid review.

One of the misconception of homeschooling is the lack of socialization. Let me just tell you that my sons social calendar stays full. Homeschooling is a popular choice for many parents who want more control over their child’s education. One of the concerns that some parents have about homeschooling is the issue of socialization. However, there are many ways that homeschooled children can still experience socialization.

Homeschool Co-Op Groups

One option is to enroll in homeschool co-op groups. These groups consist of other homeschooling families who come together to provide educational and social opportunities for their children. Co-op groups can offer classes, field trips, and other activities that allow kids to interact with their peers.

Local Libraries and Meet Up Groups

Not ready for a homeschool -co-op group and wants to something more flexible? Look into your local libararies and local Facebook and meet up homeschool groups. We have paid visit to a few of our local library homeschool weekly homeschool hangouts that have been great for meeting new people. I belong to several Facebook homeschool groups that plan events for kids and parents.

Field Trips and Online Classes

We have been taking advantage of many of the museums, skating rink, bowling, jump centers and other businesses homeschool days. Many businesses who don’t get a lot of traffic during the school year gladly open their facilities to homeschoolers for homeschool days and offer discounts.

My son has taken so many online classes for homeschoolers and made many friends from all over the world. One of our best homeschool friends live in Japan the boys are always getting together for some Minecraft and game time. Online classes are also growing in popularity several of the leading online class platforms are adding tons of homeschool classes of sorts of variety.

Learning Pods

Homeschooling parents are increasingly turning to learning pods as a way to provide their children with social interaction and academic support. There are several benefits to using learning pods for homeschoolers.

Here recently there has been this new movement of “Learning pods” that is also a great way to increase socialization.Learning pods are small, in-person groups of students who learn together under the guidance of a tutor or a parent. One such program is Kaipod Learning which has several learning pods across many states. Kaipod Learning offers parents with students in 3rd -12th grade a place to learn and choose the curriculum they prefer. Students work at thier own pace while enjoying a community of their own peers. Kaipod Learning offers 2 day, 3 day, and 5 day option. Students arrive at 8:30 and the day ends at 3:30, students set their attendance that works for them. I was able to find one in our area and we are possibly considering it for next school year 2 days a week. Kaipod Learning is a wonderful alternative if you looking for a way to socialize your student and homeschool at the same time.

Firstly, learning pods allow homeschoolers to socialize with their peers in a safe environment. Socialization is a critical aspect of childhood development, and learning pods offer a structured way for children to interact with others within their age group. This is especially important during the current pandemic, where many children are experiencing social isolation.

Secondly, learning pods provide personalized attention to each child’s learning needs. With smaller class sizes, tutors or parents can cater to each child’s learning style and pace. This ensures that children receive individualized attention which can help them excel academically.

Lastly, learning pods can be cost-effective for homeschooling families. By pooling resources and sharing the cost of a tutor or a parent, learning pods can provide high-quality education at a lower cost than traditional homeschooling.

Homeschooled children can also participate in extracurricular activities, such as sports teams or community organizations. These activities provide an opportunity for kids to meet and interact with other children who share similar interests.

In addition, homeschooling allows children to spend more time with their families and develop close relationships with their siblings. This can help them develop strong social skills and the ability to communicate effectively with others.

Overall, while socialization is a valid concern for homeschooling families, there are many ways for homeschooled children to interact with others and develop important social skills.

Africa, African History, Curriculum, Education, Family, Geography, History, S.T.E.A.M

Teni & Tayo Africa in a Box Review!

Little Learner and Mom

We received Africa In A Box from Teni & Tayo for our honest review!

Normally I start my reviews off with an opener, but for this one, I just have just dive right in for this review. When I tell you I was impressed with Africa In A Box from Teni & Tayo I couldn’t wait to write this review!!!

Africa In A Box is exactly what you get with an interactive history stem box for ages 5+. We felt like we were given front-row seats to the motherland with Mrs. Omobola as our guide. My son was instantly captivated, and his Nintendo Switch was kicked to the curb very quickly. Once he saw me place the box on the table and saw all the goodies he was ready!

Our mission is to help close the representation gap in the products made for kids while creating fun and engaging products that any child can enjoy.

Mrs. Omobola- creator

Our topic of the month was the Ndebele Tribe of South Africa/Zimbabwe. Included in our inspired by Africa box was everything thing we needed to build our authentic home. We received:

  • Detailed written and picture instructions.
  • Markers and pencil
  • Glue
  • Wooden panel with building hardware
  • Battery pack and batteries
  • Wires and LED bulb
  • Twine

Let’s talk about this video it was awesome we watched it twice. We learned about the Ndebele tribe in South Africa and some parts of Zimbabwe. We learned about the language, history, geography, and culture. My son was in awe of the beauty of the countries and people mentioned in the video.

He asked me… Mom why don’t they show how beautiful Africa really is on the news and tv?”

Jai – age 10

As parents, we have always taught our son about the beautiful continent of Africa and let him know he is a descendant of mighty kings and queens. To have a box like Africa In A Box just solidifies everything he has been learning since he was a toddler.

The hands-on STEM activity is wonderful. The instructor walks the children through building the structure. Mrs. Omobola has a natural rapport with the children. I like that she spoke to the children with respect, positivity, and encouragement. Also included in the box is an informational reader about the lesson the kids would be learning.

In the video, the children learn the importance of giving back because they tell the children for every box they receive a certain percentage of the purchase goes to help those in need in Africa and the African diaspora. I love that they are teaching this value because it is so important that children learn to give back.

After finishing his box he started playing with his Black Panther Lego mini figure. His house was the highlight of the day. He found a special place for it in his room. He asked us to get him another box because he enjoyed this one so much!

My son is 10, and he had no problem assembling the project on his own. When he got stuck with the wiring he just went back and rewatched the video and paused where he needed to adjust. My son isn’t big on decorating projects like this but he fully decorated his project and turned on some South African music on Alexa and spent the afternoon coloring. He also spent the evening telling his dad about his project and attempting to do the Ndebele clicking pronunciation.

Africa In A Box is available as a monthly subscription or bundle discount. At the time of this review, the company is offering free shipping on their box subscriptions. The cost starts at $38.99 and they are mailed by the 15th of the month. There is a pop-up on their website where you can save 10% off your first box. We plan to subscribe so we can get the upcoming box on Empress Taytu Betul of Ethiopia. I highly recommend Africa In A Box from Teni & Tayo .

Until the Next Time,

Mom and Jai

Family, Family Life, History, Homeschool, Kwanzaa, Holidays, Unit Study

What Celebrating Kwanzaa Means to our Family!

Little Learner and Mom

Well, the holiday season is moving fast and there are only a few days until Christmas, but for hundreds of black and brown people, the celebration continues the day after Christmas. Kwanzaa is an African-American holiday that celebrates African culture and its importance in the African-American community. It is celebrated from December 26th to January 1st. Seven core principles are celebrated during this time: unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith. These principles are essential in helping to promote African culture and unify African-Americans. Kwanzaa is also a time to reflect on the history of African-Americans, honor ancestors, and recognize the struggles of the African diaspora. It is a time for African-Americans to come together to celebrate their culture, traditions, and community. Kwanzaa is a time for African-Americans to find strength, embrace their identity, and work together to build a better future.

The seven principles of Kwanzaa are

The seven core principles of Kwanzaa are Umoja (Unity), Kujichagulia (Self-Determination), Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility), Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics), Nia (Purpose), Kuumba (Creativity), and Imani (Faith). These seven principles serve as a guide for African-Americans to celebrate their African heritage and culture and promote unity and self-improvement.

A few years back I wrote a blog about how we celebrated a Montessori Inspired Kwanzaa. You can read about our Montessori-Inspired Kwanzaa here. I have been meaning to update and write about how celebrating Kwanzaa is an ongoing tradition in our home. My son looks forward to celebrating each year and takes part in lightening the candle and leading the celebration. For us celebrating Kwanzaa is a way of life its not just a week, we practice the principles all year. Kwanzaa is not political or religious and it is not something that is celebrated in Africa. Kwanzaa is mostly celebrated in the United States but it was inspired by the South African region harvest celebration of the “first fruits”. I highly recommend that you do your research beforehand and check out the Official Kwanzaa Website.

I pull our Kwanzaa materials out right after Thanksgiving and I set up our area, you can check out our Kwanzaa unboxing on our Little Learner and Mom Instagram. Setting up early allows me to think about our intentions for the upcoming year and it gives us all a full month to think about these intentions. My son spends his time journaling about each principle and reflecting on how he demonstrated those principles during the year. I personally reflect on Umoja ( Unity) and Nia (Purpose) during the month of December.

Kwanzaa doesn’t require a lot of prep as a matter of fact our first kinara was made out of toilet paper rolls and tissue paper, a handmade Mkeka, and one of my son’s sippy cups. The homemade materials were the best because they were made with the principle of Kuumba in mind. We treasured those materials and set them out continuously each year until they fell apart. For our next Kinara we also made ourselves some wooden candle holders. Our current Kwanzaa set is from Kwanzaa Kit. Over the years we have made changes and built off of the previous year. I plan our meal plan for the week ahead of time, I try to include a special dish or dessert each day on the 6th day we have a grand meal that includes recipes from both my husband and my mother. I also have my son pick a recipe he wants to prepare.

Kwanzaa 2022

This year for Kwanzaa we have lined up:

Resources for Kwanzaa

There are several picture books about Kwanzaa, you can find our favorites in our Amazon store. I have also included some resources for games, cookbooks, kinara sets, and decorations. It is not too late to grab some candles (Mishumaa Saba) from your local craft store and you can just use a candle holder and just light your candles. The Kamali Academy Kwanzaa Unit Study has some wonderful printable principles cards you can print on cardstock and laminate. You can do like we did and just make your material, you will treasure these over the years. I have created a Kwanzaa Pinterest board full of ideas you can look over. Here are a few of my favorite Teacher pay Teacher Resources:

The most important thing about Kwanzaa is making the celebration your own there is no right or wrong way to celebrate. Take baby steps at first and enjoy the week learning and enjoying your family. Kwanzaa is an affirmation of African American people’s connection to their African roots and their history, and it is a time to reflect on the importance of self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith. Kwanzaa is a time of self-reflection and celebration of African American culture and heritage, and it is a reminder of the importance of community and family.

Be sure to follow us on our Little Learner and Mom Instagram as we celebrate!

Until the Next Time,

Mom

This may contain affiliate links for the product discussed, clicking these links is at no extra charge to you!

6th Grade, Education, Family, Homeschool, Middle School Math

Brilliant: Premium Subscription!

Little Learner and Mom

Disclosure: I received this complimentary product through the Homeschool Review Crew.

Ok so I am in the 40+ club and I try to keep my brain sharp by working on logic games and puzzles. So when presented with the opportunity to review Brilliant Premium Subscription I thought this would be perfect for me. Well, I was wrong…my husband who was laying beside me became curious about what I was doing and took over.

Brilliant is a digital way to bring STEM to your family designed to provide daily math courses in areas of

  • Mathematical Fundamentals
  • Pre-Algebra
  • Geometry Fundamentals
  • Geometry 1
  • Algebra 1
  • Algebra 2

Brilliant is designed to help your student think logically in areas of math, science, and computer science. The program is for students in grades 6th – Adult. What is unique about Brilliant is students will move along a learning path as they work on areas of interest. My student is a rising 6th grader, but he really enjoys working at Brilliant. I think what caught his attention was one exercise with balance beam math, he instantly recognized the concept and enjoyed reviewing this in a digital form. I really enjoy the logical parts of Brilliant my husband and I take turns solving them. I also like how Brilliant will send you emails of new challenges and reminders to log in.

Brilliant exercises take about 10-15 mins to complete, if your student needs to break from the course the progress is saved until they are ready to work again. Students can toggle between math exercises, logic, science, and computer science fundamentals. There are over 60 + courses in the Brilliant Premium Subscription which is such a great variety of STEM learning opportunities that your homeschool is covered when using the Premium Subscription. Brilliant is downloaded to all of our Apple devices and we all are working on learning paths. My husband and I are in steady competition over who can complete the new challenges first. Our son has sometimes beaten us to challenges, but it is okay because I love the benefits we are getting from Brilliant.

If you would like to read more fabulous reviews on Brilliant Premium Subscription be sure to check out the Crew’s reviews by clicking the banner below.

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Critical Thinking and Logic, Education, Family, Games and Apps, Homeschool Family

SmartGames: IQ Six Pro Review

Little Learner and Mom

I received IQ Six Pro from Timberdoodle Co. in exchange for my fair and honest review.

This year as part of our electives I am making more of an effort to work on critical thinking and logic skills. I am so serious about us spending more time working on logic I have made it a family affair. We were given the opportunity to review SmartGames IQ Six Pro to review. Smart Games IQ Six Pro is included in the 2022 Ninth-Grade Curriculum Kit Timberdoodle Co. and rightfully so because this game is great for younger and older students.

SmartGames

SmartGames is award-winning company, that creates educational and inspiring games for kids for all ages. We are no strangers to this company we have owned several of their games when my son was younger. SmartGames work on providing games that children and adults will play and learn. SmartGames target the following areas:

  • Cognitive Skills
  • Social Skills
  • Language Skills
  • Build Confidence

At SmartGames we believe Learning through Play is one of the most important concepts in childhood development. Through play children can learn cognitive, social and language skills, and build the self-confidence needed to navigate challenges in life.

SmartGames

IQ SIX PRO

IQ Six Pro is a compact game, but just because it is small doesn’t mean that it is not mighty. The game comes with game board with a clear lid. Inside the little box you will find the 12 game pieces and instructional manual. The game is for ages eight years and older and includes 120 puzzles and their solutions. There are four levels of gameplay starter, junior, expert, master, and wizard. The game can be played 2D (inside box and on back on the back of box) and 3D. I am personally still working out the kinks with the 3D version. The 2D gameplay has been fabulous for us to play as a family. The instructions are easy to follow, and you will find yourself having to really think about the solutions and the outcomes before placing your pieces.

The gameplay simple your goal is to place the pieces as the challenges tells you and then fit the remaining pieces into the original challenge. Sounds easy right? Well, that’s where the critical thinking comes into play because there is only 1 solution. IQ Six Pro is like a handheld interactive Tetris game and but better.

So, this is how my family used IQ Six Pro Wednesday nights is family logic game night. Like I said previously we are longtime users of SmartGames so we own a few of their compact games. I set our games out and we all grab a game and start playing, but because IQ Six Pro was new, we all wanted to jump in a play. So we set a timer and each person got 3 mins to try to solve the puzzle then we would switch and sometimes we would play the one challenge together taking turns trying. My husband who was super confident he had this in the bag quickly finish challenges we told him he had to do a wizard level. Sure, enough he got stumped and spent a lot of time working the challenge.

My son uses IQ Six Pro as part of his brain breaks and logic learning rotations. He prefers the interactive games over any book logic work. He has worked his way up to the master level. I have noticed he will do previously challenges over and will time himself. We have taken IQ Six Pro on car rides; vacation and he even took it to his summer camp and introduced it to his friends.

We really like IQ Six Pro and I plan to give my mother one for her birthday and send a set to my sister for the holidays. It makes a great stocking stuffer and fits well in a morning basket. Just a few minutes a day your student can work on their critical thinking skills and have fun. What really like about IQ Six Pro is that it is screen free and he really has to work to get the solution.

2022 Ninth-Grade Curriculum Kit Timberdoodle Co.

Smart Games IQ Six Pro is a great compact game for the entire family. We plan to invest in many more of these compact games over the next few months to add to our collection. You can also get your own Smart Games IQ Six Pro from Timberdoodle Co. and it is also included in the 2022 Ninth-Grade Curriculum Kit. I would like to thank Timberdoodle Co. for sending this great game to add to our collection.

Until the Next,

Mom and J

Education, Family, Family Life, Morning Basket, Science

Johnathan Park: The Adventure Begins, Series 1 Review!

Little Learner and Mom

Disclosure: I received this complimentary product through the Homeschool Review Crew.

We love audiobooks in our homeschool we try to use them when we are doing activities, as well as to avoid screens. For the last several weeks, my family has been enjoying Jonathan Park – The Adventure Begins, Series 1. The Adventure Begins, Series 1 is not an audiobook this is an audio adventure for your children to listen to. I was a little skeptical because my son likes to have the book and audio when does things like this, so I wasn’t sure how he would take to this.

Jonathan Park The Adventure Begins, Series 1

The Adventure Begins, Series 1 takes the listener on a wonderful journey of science and faith. Students meet Jonathan and his father and immediately throw into an action pack adventure with him and the Brenan family. My son was hooked from the start. The Adventure Begins, Series 1 audio adventure includes amazing sound effects and all the makings of a great book in audio format. I found myself sipping coffee and listening and wanting to know what would happen next in the story.

The Adventure Begins, Series 1 covers the following science topics:

  • The Evolutionary Tree
  • The Convergent Evolution
  • Laws of Energy
  • Designs of the Water Cycle

What is different about these science lessons is they are taught from a faith-based perspective. I didn’t find this an issue because we enjoyed the storyline and liked that it was something different for us to listen to and opened up doors for discussions about these topics and our faith. The Adventure Begins, Series 1 also includes character-building lessons that I appreciate.

Jonathan Park The Adventure Begins, Series 1 includes four albums, and each album includes three 26-minute adventures. We received the digital version, but Jonathan Park does offer a hardcover version. Downloading the digital was easy to do and I put them on my son’s iPad and we would listen during his handwriting and morning time. Jonathan Park – The Adventure Begins, Series 1 is based on real places and historical events. The story is fiction but exciting. My son wanted to binge listen to these audio adventures and I had to pace him. The Secrets of the Hidden Cave kits the adventures off as Dr. Park (paleontologist), his son and Brenan’s family stumble upon an exciting discovery. I think what drew him in was that Jonathan was a relatable character.

I know what you are thinking I am being really vague about the story, but you will have to grab Jonathan Park – The Adventure Begins, Series 1 so you can join the adventure. Right now is the perfect time to grab this wonderful series because The Adventure Begins, Series 1 is on sale for nearly 60% off with free shipping in the US using the jpcrew22. Be sure to check out the other Crew’s reviews on Jonathan Park The Adventure Begins, Series 1 by clicking the banner below.

Social Media Links:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JonathanParkAudioAdventures

Curriculum, Family, Family Life, Homeschool Family, mindfulness, Writing

52 List Projects: Journaling Inspiration for Kids!!

Little Learner and Mom

I received My 52 List Project: Journaling Inspiration for KIDS from Timberdoodle Co. in exchange for my fair and honest review.

The last 2 years have been quite a roller coaster for everyone. Lately, I have been feeling like my son has lost a little of our connection. It could be just we are just overwhelmed with being in quarantine for so long and the entire family has relied a little more on screens which have allowed for some disconnection. I have been having some major mom guilt about not spending real quality time with my 9-year-old and I was looking for a way to bring us closer.

One of the things we ha My 52 List Project: Journaling Inspiration for KIDS. After looking through the book for my son I bought the adult version for myself. My 52 List Project: Journaling Inspiration for KIDS so happens to be included in the Timberdoodle Co 6th grade curriculum kit.

The My 52 List Project: Journaling Inspiration for KIDS is a great way for your student to spend thinking and writing about things that matter to them most Kids will enjoy the fun list of prompts that help them reclaim their inspirations and aspirations. My 52 List Project: Journaling Inspiration for KIDS is perfect for kids who are 8-12 years old. It’s during these years kids really start to come into their own and their personalities really start to shine.

My 52 List Project: Journaling Inspiration for KIDS helps students to build “grit, self-knowledge, and acceptance”. Through completing the weekly list prompts with affirmations and parent support your child can navigate their way through adolescence with confidence. There is a “Grown-Up’s Guide” available long on the 52 List website that lays out 6 ways to offer support:

  • Participate and connect
  • Build accountability
  • Offer hands-on help
  • Give older or more sensitive kids extra space
  • Encourage group journaling
  • Listen and honor kid’s privacy

I found these 6 ways very helpful because the mom in me had to let go of the let me help you figure this out and just let him do it for himself. Each week asked him if he wanted help or if he wanted me to read his list. The layout of the journal is very simple there is 52 kit that is to be done over the course of 52 weeks so that is one list a week. The writing prompt is listed on the top and below students have 2 pages to write their thoughts. Kids are not limited to just writing they can do whatever they want on these pages, the journal also includes stickers.

How We Used

I decided that our journal time would be on Friday mornings after breakfast, I brew us some tea and set out both of our journals and special journaling pens. We chat a little about the week and what is to come over the weekend. Turn on a little Lo-Fi Hip-Hop and begin to write. There is no time limit we just spend this time humming to music, sipping tea, and enjoying our time together.

The “Grown-Up’s Guide” also offers talking points for each list in the My 52 List Project: Journaling Inspiration for KIDS. I review these conversation starters the night before or while the tea is brewing. I personally didn’t want to have the guide on the table with me because I wanted to have this space free from clutter. Our journal time is meant to reaffirm our relationship and build his confidence. He has really enjoyed the last few weeks of our journaling in My 52 List Project: Journaling Inspiration for KIDS.

So we’re slowly moving into our new homeschool year and I asked him what are some things he would like for us to continue to do, he immediately said he wants to continue our Friday journal time and has asked if his dad can get his own 52 List journal to join us some Fridays when he is home.

Final Thoughts

I have seen a great improvement in my son’s writing and creativity since using the My 52 List Project: Journaling Inspiration for KIDS. We are talking more and I have noticed a decline in his anxiety and attention to detail. We have experienced some WOW moments and had some heart-to-heart conversations. This has been a great way to kick off weekends because we plan family games and movie night activities. I highly recommend My 52 List Project: Journaling Inspiration for KIDS for your kiddos ages 8-12 years. This is a great journal for back to school or the start of the new year. Kids can write before bed or just when they need to decompress and express themselves. A great addition to the morning basket and poetry tea time or if you just want to have some quiet time. This is also great for self-esteem building and a growth mindset.

My 52 List Project: Journaling Inspiration for KIDS is available for individual purchase from Timberdoodle Co as well as it is included in Timberdoodle Co 6th grade curriculum kit. Be sure to check Timberdoodle Co. for your upcoming homeschool year and back to school needs by clicking the banner below.

Timberdoodle Co 6th grade curriculum kit

Until the Next Time,

Mom and J

4th Grade, 5th Grade, 6th Grade, Education, Family, Homeschool, Homeschool Family, Unit Study

Five Senses Literature Lessons: Children of the Longhouse Unit Study!

Little Learner and Mom

Complimentary product received from Five Senses Literature Lessons

I am starting to lesson plan for our upcoming school year and one of the things I like to include is 3-4 unit studies each year. Last year my son had the opportunity to take classes with Kelly Tudor, if you are not familiar with Kelly Tudor she is a citizen of the Lipan Apache Tribe in Texas. She teaches Indigenous studies classes in Outschool, and she is a wealth of truth about Indigenous people. We love her classes and we will be taking full advantage of them again this year.

I mention Mrs. Tudor because we always do an Indigenous study between October and November. This year we will be using the Five Senses Literature Lessons ,Children of the Longhouse Unit Study.

About Five Senses Literature Lessons

Five Senses Literature Lessons were developed by an occupational therapist, turned homeschool. The lessons are secular and can be used as a full curriculum depending on the student. There are 4 levels instead of grade levels, the reason being the lesson is designed to appeal to all students based on their abilities.

You will see some overlapping of skills because not all children learn at the same pace and may need more time to develop skills. The literature lesson covers multiple academic disciplines such as:

  • History and Social Studies
  • Science and Math
  • Art and Health
  • Language Arts

Everything you need to teach these lessons is within the literature guide. Speaking of the lessons you will receive embedded video and resource links for each lesson which makes this guide easier to implement. You really don’t have to print out the guide itself just the appendix section that has all the printables you will need. I personally like to have both a hard copy (planning and note-taking reasons) and a digital version for the clickable links.

I want children to experience learning with their whole bodies. I want them to not only hear about something but taste it, feel it, talk about it and wonder about it beyond what they were shown. I do not believe that learning about history, science, art or language should hinge on how well a child can read or write.

Laura Sowdon – Five Senses Learning

Five Senses Literature Lessons work for children with disabilities as well as gifted children. The guides appeal to all learning styles and I really like that they were created by the occupational therapist because she has taken the time to really design a program that is relaxed and stress-free for both the learner and parent.

Children of the Longhouse Unit Study

Children of the Longhouse, Unit Study is a part of the green level for students ages 8-12 years. The green level concentrates on historical fiction, critical thinking skills, independent learning, and ambitious hands-on activities. The creator of this unit study was very intentional to point out that the unit was about Appreciation not Appropriation I really like this because I don’t know how many times I have tossed a book or printable because of misappropriation.

There are 13 lessons that directly correlate with each chapter in the book. You will find a book list, how-to-use, supply list, pre-reading activities, and appendix. There is a detailed chart that tells you what subjects are going to be covered in each chapter lesson. Students will learn about Indigenous culture, herbology, sports, woodworking, food, anatomy, and first aid. I really appreciate the life skills included in the resource and recipes.

Last Thoughts!

I really like the Children of the Longhouse, Unit Study from Five Senses Literature Lessons. The unit has cut down my prep time for this year’s unit study on Indigenous Studies. I like the included book list for optional resources all I have to do is grab the books from the library. I do like she included the Wildcraft board game that has been one on my list for our homeschool. November is our slow-down month with homeschool so having all the integrated subjects included takes my mind off lesson planning for those subjects. We are working on independent learning this year so having some of the activities that encourage these skills is a major plus. Five Senses Literature Lessons are great for family studies and morning baskets.

Right now there are 7 unit studies available in the Five Senses shop. I am hoping that she will come out with some new unit studies. At the time of this review Children of the Longhouse, Unit Study is $9.95 and she is having a Summer Sale you can save 25% off with the code hotmom2022.

If you would like to see a full walkthrough of this unit be on the lookout for our video on Little Learner and Mom IG.

Until the Next Time!

Mom