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Math Madness! & Memorization – Kindergarten

May 8, 2008 By Laura 4 Comments

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We’re talking about the beginning skills of math memorization, for little ones, today. Our Kindergartners ( {J} {O} {S} ) have been working on addition and subtraction in their workbooks throughout this year. Their math curriculum (Horizons/Alpha Omega Publications) had introduced math problems in both numerical sentences, as well as stacked, and as of recently, even in math story problems. Their aid right along has been a number line on the page to use for adding or subtracting. They start at the given number, and count going forward (adding) or backward(subtracting), and the number they land on is the answer to the problem. I have thought right along that this technique was rather clever, in that the kids are learning now, for the future, how to line their number columns up properly as they write their answers, and to get the idea of adding some to, or taking away from, and just the whole general idea of how math works. It’s been the fastest subject every day for them, unless we add an extra math activity with manipulatives — like money or time telling.

So tonight right after dinner, I was working at the computer. I had an order I really needed to prep, and was also just already burned out as it was, from an intense and exhaustive appointment I had today after schooling. Michael had to run out to do something himself, so he was not around. So I am working along and conversing with the kids at the same time, as I often do.

And then the math started……

{S} “Mama….give me some math problems.”

{Me} “Okaayyyy…ummm…7+2.”

{S} “7+2?” (pause) “9!”

{Me} “That’s right! Very good!”

{S} “Give me another one!”

{Me} “Ok, How about…18 – 4”

{S} “18 – 4?” (pause – a thinking noise) “14!!”

From there, as he was getting them all right, I just went with bigger numbers, and he still kept nailing them. Then {J} comes in because he heard all of the excitement, and wants some problems too. “Give me some! Give me some too!” They take turns, and it becomes an intense competition between them. {O} was busy and very focused copying an adult’s crossword puzzle. But the boys were not letting up on wanting more. Addition, subtraction, big and small numbers, calculating in their head…and they were doing it! I think they were surprising themselves that they could do it! (I didn’t know they were ready to do that either.) There were no double digit addends or subtrahends involved, where carrying over or borrowing would be necessary, but still. Granted too, they were probably using their fingers, but hey…I still do sometimes too. And they are in kindergarten!

They really could not get enough. It went on for a long time, as I tried to work. I began hoping Michael would walk in the door any minute and take over being the ‘math problem pitcher’. And he did, eventually. He was pretty impressed with what we were doing while he was gone, and thankfully, was happy to take over. I was then able to finish up my client’s order a little quicker.

The math game went on all the way through, and in between each hug and kiss for bed, and not doubt they’ll be begging to play again as soon as they open their eyes in the morning. I’m grateful for the break tonight now that they are in bed, (although numbers are still flying around in my head, because that’s me) but also really amazed and grateful at how effective their whole curriculum, and lessons we’ve taught them, have been for them. It is an advanced Kindergarten curriculum, but have really credited how each concept is introduced in a building, and spiraling, and building some more, sort of process, and have thought of it as just that; Base prep work and building techniques for next year. But they are truly getting it more than that. And with JOY as they do. That’s what I love the most. Whether they get a concept or not — it’s that they have FUN learning that matters most to us, because eventually they are going to get it all. But to see them truly understand and demonstrate it over and over is a satisfying feeling. Seeing how much they are getting so early on, is encouraging. Because the truth is, I don’t think my kids are some unique geniuses, or necessarily smarter than other kids. And I surely do not need them to know everything now. It’s just the re-enforcement of our strong beliefs all along; that kids will learn more, and EMBRACE LEARNING, even CRAVE it, when they have fun doing it.

They have also been entertaining themselves, and each other, with memorization and recitation. All 3 of them are very fluent readers now, (well, all 4…lol) and they have taken to finding funny stories or poems in their abundance of books, and memorizing them, and then reciting them for eachother, or us…or anyone who will listen, in stores, or where ever we are. Most of what they have a desire to memorize are the funny, very silly things, of course. You know how, with kids, if something is funny once, it’s still funny the next 999 times. So they take turns spouting off this poem or that, and they all crack up, and it just never gets old. But this practice of memorization, that is merely a game to them that they came up with on their own, is just how education at home, in life, happens on it’s own. Yet it builds their memorization skills for the things they will HAVE to memorize for an assignment, or for functioning in life. Just like the scripture memorization they have done, they are acquiring various valuable benefits and skills from the ‘game’.

I just had to express what….contentment I feel tonight. Again. About this life of ours I love, and our decision to homeschool. These are the moments, that we have every day, that show us the fruits of our ‘labor’, if you want to call it that. To see the progression of their skills and gain of knowledge every day, as they display it for us in various ways, with such HAPPINESS and pride in themselves, IS the reward and the pay-offs. We wouldn’t want to miss one minute of the amazing progress for the world; from introduction of a new concept, to seeing the lightbulb in their head go off, to them grasping and running with it with such enjoyment. Just living, loving, and learning, every day. That’s what it’s all about to us. Witnessing these moments, is something we treasure and are so grateful for, even if we are hearing one thing or another for the 1,001 time. “Listen to this, Mama” “Watch me do this, Daddy! Look!” “Mama, see what I can do?” “Watch me again!”

Yes, we will always listen and look. Sometimes with eagerness, and sometimes with some real scrounged up patience, when we are trying to accomplish something of our own, because it matters to them. It is life. It’s the learning process of little ones, and it is the love of learning, growing, and the satisfaction of new accomplishments and skills they can each call their own. And there can never be enough. There will always be time for such things. It is all gifts, our gifts, receiving gifts, and just multiplying before our eyes.

So bring it on, kids. We will listen, we will look, we will cheer, and we will clap, as all 4 of you realize there is nothing you cannot do, with hard work, desire and determination, and the grace of God. The rewards are all yours. And it is enough for us to just listen, and watch, over and over again.

Mass Audubon Society Wildlife Sanctuary – Field Trip – On the Wrong Day

May 6, 2008 By Laura 3 Comments

When I first found out the about this field trip to the Mass Audubon Society Wildlife Sanctuary via e-mail, I apparently relied on my memory, while going from the computer to the calendar. I guess I shouldn’t have done that, because there is a big difference between the 6th, and the 16th! Might explain why we were the only ones there, huh?? Good golly. We were supposed to meet lots of other homeschoolers there, but all we could see or hear were birds.

So we decided to make the most of it, since we were already there. It was a beautiful day, and I got some nice photos our of our peaceful hike. Don’t you love the photos above and below of the geese and their goslings? Whenever I have seen ducks and their ducklings, or geese and their goslings in my life, I just feel a little something inside. I can identify with them somehow, in a family/parental way. They seem to take such care in guiding their young ones, and are so very protective if danger or possible predators (like us) gets too near to their young. Aggressively so, as if there is nothing they won’t do to protect their children. I can relate to that, and I’m sure many of you parents can, as well. Anyway, I enjoyed watching and photographing this feathered-family.

These acres at this wildlife sanctuary, owned by Mass Audubon, is just beautiful. Wide open wet-lands and woods, and meandering, winding boardwalks throughout. (I love boardwalks too.) It’s all conservation land of course, and is such a haven of all kinds of beautiful birds, and creatures big and small. I bet in the evening hours, as it approaches dusk, it’s a whole other world, equally as amazing and beautiful, but different.

There was so much to photograph, but I was wishing I had a much bigger zoom! Many of these photos are extremely cropped, which I hate to do because of quality loss. But nonetheless, I’d venture to say we wouldn’t have seen (or been able to sneak up on) some of the little things we saw today, had so many more people been with us. Like this little garter snake. Can you see him?

Or this little white moth, that’s as good as a butterfly to my kids. : )

There were little turtles, just soaking up the warm sun on rocks and limbs extending out of the waters, everywhere. I think I would rather enjoy being a turtle here at this place, for a day or 2. As long as my turtle family was with me, and were feeling just as mellow. : )

Here’s another shot I just love, because I love these kind of ‘craggly’ trees. (Is that a word? Craggly?) I remember trying to draw them a lot as a kid. I found it hard to really make every stroke different-as no 2 branches or twigs are the same. I found I would start balancing it all out without thinking. Maybe it’s the Libra in me.

It was really nice just walking around together. It was so quiet there (except for my kids, who tend to have volumes we are working on.) The weather was perfect. It wasn’t too hot, cold, or windy. There were no bugs bothering us, and it was so…peaceful there. Just following the trails and boardwalks, and keeping an eye out for anything of nature to appreciate, and marveling at the creativity of our God, everywhere we look.

Of course I can never keep myself from photographing the kids, and I got plenty of those as always. But even I got in one today with them! I’m the big kid in the middle.

But this one below really melts my heart. <sigh>

The kids had such a great time there, and they even said they didn’t care that no one else was there as planned. But….I think we’ll go back and make the field trip on the RIGHT day, anyway. I’ve corrected my calendar. Now all I have to do is remember to look at it, and know what day it is when I do, and we’re there! The kids have already stated though that they want to be sure to wear their t-shirts they made again (because I guess the point was showing them off!)– so if I take more photos, we’ll probably have the same clothing. Even I may wear the same t-shirt again, since {S} asked me to lean down to him today for a secret, and he whispered in my ear “You look really beauty-ful today in that shirt.” <sniff> (I know…I think I need a moment again here.)

Anyway….here they are all together, jackets purposely unzipped (and practically hanging off) as to not cover up their designs. As I type this, they are sound asleep in their beds, and I am quite tired myself. But I feel like I just could sit and look at this photo of them all night, (and the one of my husband too) and wonder why God blessed me so greatly. Or maybe I’ll just spend it thanking Him, once again, that He did.

Update on the 6 Tiny Potted Plants

April 26, 2008 By Laura 1 Comment

tiny potted plants

Here’s a quick little update on our 6 Tiny Potted Plants! As you can see above, the plants are coming along nicely! There is a labeled photo below for reference. The first to sprout were mine and {JM’s}, which would be the Hollyhock. Daddy and O’s Rudbeckia started to come up next, and then we had several days of nothing from {A’s} and {S’s} Delphinium. We started to worry a little, when finally we spotted some wee little sprouts.

I think what we have discovered is very consistent results between the alike species, in terms of growth rates. They have been really fun to watch grow these past several days. The next time I post about them again, it may be because it is time to transplant them outdoors in our flower beds. I can’t wait to see the colorful flowers among the greens.

tiny potted plants

The hostas (below) are coming up beautifully! Just look how tall and green they’ve become! They aren’t pathetic little nubs anymore! They are starting to open, and it won’t be long before they really start filling out those beds. We need to put some mulch out there, and some railroad ties will be going along the back there, behind them. But I am enjoying them as they are, already. I didn’t take photos of the tulips, because I didn’t get over to there, but the buds have sprung up from the center of the leaves.

hostas

Below are photos of the type of shrubs that are along the head of our driveway. For some reason, I thought they were called Junipers. It may be that the man we bought this house and property from years ago, told us that – because I surely would not have known what type of bush/ground cover they were all those years ago (or much cared back then!) But that is why I am posting them. Not too long ago, in the last couple of years anyway, when I referred to them as Junipers to someone, they informed me that that’s not what they are. (I think it may have been my mother-in-law?). But they weren’t sure what they were, exactly. So if anyone does know what they are, please e-mail me or comment. At some point at least some of them are going to need to be removed, and I would like to find out the best way to transplant elsewhere in the yard, if possible. But in researching that info, it would be helpful if I knew what they were! Don’t you think?

shrubbery

That’s all for now. We’ve got some fun crafty projects coming up, so I’m sure I’ll be posting again real soon.

My Buttons Jar

April 19, 2008 By Laura 2 Comments

(My Button Jar)

Like many women, I am sure, I feel that a home is a place in which you should be surrounded by the things that make you happy. Things that touch your soul, lift you up, comfort you. Aside from one’s family, I think that these are the things that make the house, a home. They could be meaningful pieces, that perhaps have a family history, or were passed down to you. Maybe it’s something that brings back cherished memories. Perhaps it’s something created just for you, or given to you by a very special person in your life. Or maybe it’s just ‘things’ you collect, because they speak to you, for reasons you aren’t even sure of. (And don’t really feel the need to figure out.) You just like seeing them there. Whatever those things may be for you, they matter, and should be part of your ‘sacred environment’.

My button jar is one of those things in my home. I simply just started getting and collecting buttons in this jar, because I liked the idea of it. I love buttons, and I knew seeing a bunch of them, in all of their colors, in a clear jar, would just give me one of those quiet inner-smiles. And they do. But for even more reasons than the visual appreciation I have for it, now.

It started with my husband’s comment in the store on that late summer day, as my oldest daughter and I excitedly spun the button rack, plucking off little packs we loved. He asked “What are all these buttons for, again, Honey?”. It was the way he said it. So gently. He knows better than anyone, how I get when I get an idea. I go on an urgent mission. He doesn’t always understand it. But he is always so understanding of ‘me’ and my simple needs, and you can just hear the love in his voice, when he asks these questions, trying hard to understand the purpose behind the urgency of my latest mission.
So he asked, in that sweet way he does.

By the grace of God, an answer came to me, that didn’t sound quite so crazy, as the truth it initially was. I said “Well, I’m going to keep these in the school room, and they’ll be great manipulatives to have on hand for the kids, in helping them understand math concepts and stuff, for kindergarten.” I surprised myself, and thankfully, the answer seemed to suit him just fine. So then I honestly added, “And also, I just want a button jar.” Which made him laugh, in a way that I knew, he knew, that was the bigger of the truths.

Turns out, those buttons have been used a whole lot! They don’t ‘just’ sit there, looking pretty. At the beginning of the kids schooling, they used the buttons for the building of math skills, on their number charts. I would call out a number, and they would see how fast they could find that number on their chart, and mark it with a button. Or we would teach them about numbers that come before, after, or in between, other given numbers.

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As the beginning of the year wore on, we also used them for lessons on counting higher, comparison, direction and position (right, left, up down, next, last, over, after, before, etc.) They also came in handy for number theories (ordinal numbers, even, odd) , and sequences such as first, 2nd, 3rd, last. etc. At this point in the year, we mostly use them to show them the visual concept of addition and subtraction.

I’m not the only one that has truly enjoyed having this jar of buttons in our home! The younger kids ask all of the time “Mama, can I play with your buttons?“, and the ‘your‘ part always makes me chuckle. (But I don’t feel the need to correct them 😉 Of course, I always say “Yes“. They ‘play’ with them, making up their own games that incidentally, re-enforce every mathematical concept we have taught them. Everything they learned with those buttons, was FUN to them, and so they just want to do it more. And I think ‘Keep playing.’

When I first got that jar of buttons together, and sat it on my school cabinet, the sight of it, as I said, just gave me a quiet inner-smile. Maybe they represent my surpressed urge to start sewing. (For all of the beautiful sewn things I just totally make up in my head, and then so surprisingly, cannot find in the stores!)

But more than anything now, seeing that jar already brings me warm memories: Of the thoughtfully put question my husband asked me in the store that day, or the fun the kids have had with them during school time, and the value in the various lessons they’ve learned while using them. Or the many times I watched any one of the children at the table, buttons scattered about, ‘playing‘. Suddenly, the vision-turned-reality of my button jar just sitting there, holds true purpose, life-long lessons, family value, and cherished memories. It’s times like these I am really glad I had such a crazy idea.
And as it sometimes turns out, so is everyone else in our family.

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Bullfrog Tadpole Hunting…by Alexis Grace (10)

April 17, 2008 By A 2 Comments

bullfrog-tadpole-hunting (3)

You may have seen the plans I drew up earlier, for a bullfrog tadpole breeder. Yes, we did thengo bullfrog tadpole hunting! Some good old homeschooling, nature study, field trip, FUN! We could see into the water well, because of the bright sun. So we started scoopin’ some out right away.

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Got another one!

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As we caught some, I would put my hand in the net gently, and scoop them out, and put them into the water jar. Our hands were covered in mud! Three of the bullfrog tadpoles looked probably almost a year old, and the rest were kind of small, like they were newer.

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My little brothers and sister helped me spot the biggest ones, and said that the smaller ones were ‘fish’.

Here’s a look at one of the bigger bullfrog tadpoles we caught.

bullfrog-tadpole
And in case you’d like a bit closer of a look!…..

Here’s a couple jar shots with a some of the bullfrog tadpoles all in there. Isn’t the little one cute? Notice how he has a pink belly.

bullfrog-tadpoles-in-jar

bullfrog-tadpoles

Dad and I made a habitat for them, but Mama didn’t get photos of that. It looks like my plan I had on paper, with pond water, rocks, gravel, dirt and mud, and pond weeds to oxygenate the water. It is all set up in an open below ground level window well we have, which conveniently has a nice observation window for me and the triplets on the inside as well! Over the years, I have raised 3 snakes, 4 toads (‘Ugly’, ‘Stinky’, ‘Yucky’ and ‘Gross’), and one bullfrog named Goliath, in that window well. It’s a nice natural habitat for all kinds of creatures.

I have researched a lot on how to best raise and care for these little aquatic sea-monkeys. : ) I hope to have a wonderful learning experience by being able to observe them daily, and watch them develop into bullfrogs. But if at any point they seem to not be doing well, I am going to release them back to their original home.

I’ll keep you posted!

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