Hands-on Projects to Supplement School

Our little household has a core class routine: Math, Science, History, and English.  We set aside time for reading and guitar everyday.  We also have a number of special projects going after class.  Paul, 10, is learning to type with five daily lessons from Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing.  Paul programs every afternoon with 7 Billion Humans and Lego Boost.  Do you want your kids to code?  Hour of Code is free. So is MIT Scratch.  We used Code Your Own Games! initially to learn how to navigate Scratch.  Have you considered learning skills in Google Suite?  There are lessons designed to teach how to use Docs, Slideshow, Classroom, etc.  

Do your kids already have enough screen time?  Do some art projects.  We are working on Christmas presents as Art.  Try making gifts with leather, water color cards, draw Star Wars hard boiled eggs, or take photos with interesting filters.  We have a K’nex Roller Coaster project on-going in the basement. We bought used K’nex from Good Will online, where we bought a stack of Thames and Kosmos kits.  There is nothing wrong with puzzles.  Frame a few favorites for Christmas presents.  We do Art because Paul loathes Crafts of any stripe.  Your kids might be more flexible.  One last tip.  My Science blog has Mad Science Camp ideas.  We do labs and activities several times each week. Below are pix from projects.  Take a look.