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In my experience as a homeschool dad (and as a parent), most kids don’t relish going back to school in the fall. This is why we try to kick off the school year with special learning opportunities every year—as a friendly reminder to our kids that learning is actually fun.
Astronomy is one of those subjects that carries a natural appeal for kids, so before the colder months approach, take advantage of what the sky above is doing. The end of August and beginning of September offers some great opportunities to excite kids about astronomy. Continue Reading →
Most homeschooling parents are no strangers to the need to instill their children with a thorough education in STEM subjects. One of the most exciting aspects of studying science throughout school can be hands-on projects that bring abstract concepts to life.
I personally remember creating a model of the solar system that depicted the relative sizes of the planets, and it is one of my fondest educational memories. Not only did I have the chance to be creative and get my hands dirty with colors, but the project brought the reality of our solar system’s planets to life.
It taught me how small my home planet is, which grew into a larger love of astronomy and a more-involved appreciation of the fragility of our system and universe.
The unknown reaches of the universe are complex and relatively incomprehensible, but these abstract places and ideas fill people with wonder, and the study of astronomy forces us to confront our universe’s mysteries.
Experimentation is an excellent way for children to engage astronomical concepts and realities with concrete visualizations. Fortunately, in this era, we are gifted with a multitude of digital resources that can accompany hands-on projects in order to solidify underlying education objectives.
Ours is a universe of motion, so we should take advantage of our electronic ability to visually represent difficult concepts.
Below are five simple, engaging twists on classic astronomy-themed science projects for homeschooled children of all ages. Each project has a suggested approximate age level, but these are not absolute as they are subject to your child’s unique interest, learning objectives, and ability. Continue Reading →
One of the great things about homeschooling is that we can break away from our routine and take advantage of teachable moments. The Falcon Heavy Launch happening today is a great opportunity for homeschoolers to use as a teachable moment.
First static fire test of Falcon Heavy complete—one step closer to first test flight! pic.twitter.com/EZF4JOT8e4
— SpaceX (@SpaceX) January 24, 2018
Falcon Heavy will be launching from a historic launchpad: 39A in Cape Canaveral. This is the same launch pad that sent men to the moon. One day, men and women may go to the moon or Mars from this same location.
Lift-off is scheduled for 3:45 PM, EST and will be streamed online via YouTube for the whole world to see. So what should you expect?
Note: this article was updated to include the new launch time. Launch time may change throughout the day. Continue Reading →
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Music for the podcast by Kevin Macleod.
Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. I’ve been given a free sample of the product to review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsement
