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Grammar Can Wait: Building Language Naturally in Lower Elementary
Decades of research in language development and literacy show that children acquire grammar long before anyone explains it to them. By the time a child start formal schooling, most have already mastered the complex rules of their spoken language, without a single worksheet or diagram. Still, many homeschooling parents feel pressure to start formal grammar…
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Using Boggle and Boggle Junior in Your Homeschool
Word games are more than just fun, they can be powerful tools for building literacy, critical thinking, and family connection. Two classic favorites, Boggle and Boggle Junior, can be easily adapted into your homeschool routine to support learners of different ages. Why Word Games Work in Homeschooling Games like Boggle encourage children to: And best…
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How Much Math Can Be Hiding in a $0.99 Thrift Store Memory Game?
The other day at the thrift store, my kids spotted a Spidey Friends Memory game for 99 cents. It was just a box of cards with no instructions—but my five-year-old is obsessed with memory games, so it came home with us. As soon as we walked in the door, both my five- and eight-year-old were…
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Free Uppercase Letter Prewriting + Handwriting Practice Sheets
When I designed these handwriting pages, I wanted them to be both developmentally appropriate and fun. The order is influenced by UFLI’s Getting Ready curriculum, but you can absolutely adjust as needed for your learner. Uppercase vs. Lowercase Some handwriting programs begin with lowercase letters, while others begin with uppercase. Both approaches are valid! I…
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Miacademy Review: A Critical Look from a Secular Homeschooling Lens
If you’ve been in the secular homeschool world for any length of time, you’ve probably come across Miacademy. It is an online learning platform often mentioned alongside programs like Power Homeschool or Time4Learning. I recently took a deep dive into Miacademy’s website and offerings, and I can say with confidence: this is not a platform…
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The Why and How of Us: An Inclusive Sex Ed Guide for Caregivers
When your toddler asks, “Where do babies come from?” or your 7-year-old asks why their friend has two moms, it’s normal to feel unsure how to respond. Many of us didn’t grow up with healthy models of sex education, and the idea of having “the talk” can bring up awkwardness, fear, or uncertainty. Here’s the…
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Top Secular Reading Programs for Home Learning
Choosing a learn-to-read program can feel overwhelming (there are so many options out there!) and not all of them are secular or a good fit for home use. Below, I’ve rounded up some popular secular reading programs and supplements, with a quick look at what makes each one unique. Full Program? Affordability Methodology Parent Involvement…
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New Lesson Release: Formation of Stars ✨
One of the most magical things we can teach our kids is that we are made of stardust. Long before Earth existed, stars were already at work creating the elements that would one day make up everything we see around us—including us! I’m excited to share that I’ve just released a brand-new lesson in the…
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Top Secular Math Curriculum for Elementary Homeschoolers
Finding a solid, secular math curriculum for elementary-aged children can be tricky, especially with so many programs tied to religious perspectives. Here’s a roundup of secular-friendly options, from free resources to paid programs, and what makes each one unique. Full Program? Cost Methods Support Needed Format Zearn Yes FREE Step by step scaffolding and interactive…
Rabbit Hole Learning 