Author Archive

[Podcast #215] Planned Spontaneity

Brave Writer Podcast

In our journey of homeschooling, we’ve discovered that education is not just about textbooks and structured lessons; it’s about nurturing a child’s:

  • curiosity,
  • creativity,
  • and joy in learning.

We believe in blending structured education with elements of surprise and spontaneity, making learning an adventure rather than a chore.

Show Notes

The Magic of Planned Spontaneity

One approach we’ve found incredibly effective is ‘planned spontaneity.’ This involves preparing a variety of educational activities in advance, ready to be introduced at the right moment. For instance, using popsicle sticks with words for impromptu word association games, or magnetic poetry for language exploration. This method not only keeps children engaged but also encourages them to think outside the box and make connections in unexpected ways.

Engaging with the World Around Us

Another key aspect is incorporating the world into our educational activities. Virtual city walks, online resources for musical exploration, and engaging in family activities like Mario Kart tournaments or geocaching blend fun with learning. These activities provide a platform for family bonding, while also imparting valuable lessons and skills.

Fostering a Love for Learning

Moreover, we emphasize the importance of tailoring educational experiences to each child’s unique learning style. Whether it’s through ADHD-friendly tools like the “dopamenu” (dopamine menu) or simple techniques like bingo cards to track various activities, personalizing education ensures that each child’s needs and interests are met.

The Power of Creative Tools

In our discussions, we often explore the use of creative tools in learning. From simple word games to more complex activities, these tools help in developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills. They also offer a break from conventional learning methods, making education a more enjoyable and engaging experience for children.

Our approach to homeschooling is about creating an environment where learning is a joyous journey. It’s about seeing every moment as an opportunity to teach and learn, and every experience as a potential lesson. By infusing our days with creativity, spontaneity, and a deep connection with our children, we aim to foster a lifelong love for learning.

Resources

Connect with Julie

Connect with Melissa

Produced by NOVA Media

Brave Writer Podcast

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Brave Writer Precept #10: We Will Come to Know Ourselves

Brave Writer Precept 10

The tenth Brave Writer precept is: We will come to know ourselves better as educators, parents, and awesome adults!

When you embark on homeschooling, you develop as a person! It’s one of the most delightful side effects of this lifestyle.

My confidence grew as I learned how:

  • to parent,
  • to educate,
  • and to become an awesome adult—living out the privilege of being old enough to do all the things I dreamed of as a child.

What’s one gift you have received by homeschooling or parenting? What’s an aspiration you’ve fulfilled as an awesome adult?

Brave Writer’s 12 Precepts

Brave Learner Home

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[Podcast #214] Asian-American History with Resilient Panda

Brave Writer Podcast

In the realm of educational resources, Essie and Hsin-Fu Wu, the founders of Resilient Panda History, aim to fill a neglected niche in the homeschooling world.

With a deep commitment to educating young minds about the rich tapestry of Asian American history, Essie and Hsin-Fu, both homeschooling parents, have pioneered a path for inclusive learning.

Hsin-Fu and Essie Wu
Hsin-Fu Wu and Essie Wu

Their innovative approach to education, embodied in their Streams: Chinese American History for Kids guide, stems from a personal journey rooted in passion and a profound understanding of the importance of cultural representation.

Show Notes

A Personal Quest to Fill an Educational Gap

The story of Resilient Panda History began with Essie’s curiosity about the rich Chinese American history in Southern Arizona. Recognizing the glaring gap in educational materials on Asian American history, they were inspired to create resources that would not only educate but also resonate with children and families alike. Hsin-Fu’s experiences as a first-generation immigrant further fueled this mission. His personal narrative underscores the importance of acknowledging and celebrating the contributions and sacrifices of Asian American ancestors, ensuring their stories are not just heard but also felt and understood.

Empowering Through Diverse Narratives and Interactive Learning

One of the most critical takeaways from our conversation with Essie and Hsin-Fu is the power of diverse narratives in shaping young minds. The STREAMS guide utilizes a wide array of media to make history engaging and relatable, including:

  • picture books,
  • poetry,
  • and artwork.

But it’s not just about reading; it’s about experiencing. The guide encourages interactive learning, such as making fortune cookies, allowing children to immerse themselves in the cultural aspects of the stories they read.

Moreover, the guide is a testament to the importance of family involvement in education. By engaging in activities together, families not only learn about history but also about each other, creating a stronger bond and a shared understanding of their heritage.

A Call to Action for Parents and Educators

We deeply value educational diversity and cultural representation and echo Essie and Hsin-Fu’s call to action. It’s essential for parents and educators alike to incorporate resources like Resilient Panda History in their teaching. By doing so, we not only broaden our children’s horizons but also instill in them a sense of empathy and understanding toward different cultures and histories.

The journey of Essie and Hsin-Fu Wu with Resilient Panda History is not just a story of educational resource creation; it’s a narrative of resilience, diversity, and the power of stories. Their work reminds us that every child deserves to see themselves in the stories they read and understand the diverse world they are a part of.

Resources

Connect with Julie

Connect with Melissa

Produced by NOVA Media

Brave Writer Podcast

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Brave Writer Precept #9: Our Allegiance is to What’s Right for Our Family

Brave Writer Precept #9

The ninth Brave Writer precept is: Our allegiance is to what’s right for our family, not any one homeschool method, community, or model.

Today’s precept fits PERFECTLY with a Tea with Julie podcast I did called Finding a Homeschool Philosophy that Works for You. In that brief episode I remind home educators that their primary loyalty is always to their family—not someone else’s standards.

This may surprise you if you come out of the school system where you are used to being measured by teachers, transcripts, or the expectations of others.

A home education is specifically tailored to your family.

You have the power to:

  • make choices,
  • experiment and take risks,
  • be sure that the learning is meeting the needs of your specific children.

I invite you to pop in your headphones and listen to my little pep talk. It’s 7 minutes long and is available on the Brave Writer blog (includes show notes), Spotify, Apple podcasts, or any podcasting platform.

Brave Writer’s 12 Precepts

Brave Learner Home

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Mechanics & Literature: December 2023

Brave Writer

December’s Dart, Arrow, Boomerang, and Slingshot selections are packed with awesome adventures. Literary allusions, historical context, plot twists, and resounding resolution await you as your family explores:

  • writing,
  • mechanics,
  • and literary devices.

It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s this month’s Quill—Superheroes & Heroes! Spot bravery, ingenuity, and compassion in action! Collect sound effects and design superhero trading cards and capes with us!

Brave Writer Quill
Quill (ages 5-7)

Superheroes & Heroes

It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s the December issue of the Quill!

In the Brave Writer Book Shop, you’ll find books about superheroes and heroes that we adore! These are not required (you can use any books about these topics that you have in your stacks or discover at your library), but we find it’s helpful to have a list to get you started.

In this Quill, we’ll:

  • make a ruckus with supersonic sound effects;
  • gather an array of words that describe heroic figures;
  • create a superhero trading card;
  • build fine motor skills by giving an everyday hero a fabulous cape; 
  • roll a die that adds up to a rescue; 
  • and we’ll search for some sensational shapes!

Get the Quill.

Brave Writer Dart
Dart (ages 8-10)

Mr. Lemoncello’s Very First Game by Chris Grabenstein

Meet PUZZLE-obsessed Luigi Lemoncello and world famous Professor Marvelmous for fun and games!

This month’s literary device focuses on Portmanteau. 

In this Dart, we’ll also:

  • make a ruckus with onomatopoeia;
  • notice nouns that also can be verbs;
  • appreciate adjectives;
  • investigate apostrophes;
  • time travel with verbs;
  • experience an epiphany; and so much more! 

Purchase the book.

Get the Dart.

Brave Writer Arrow
Arrow (ages 11-12)

A Rover’s Story by Jasmine Warga

Meet Resilience, a Mars Rover on a big adventure!

December’s literary device is Anthropomorphism.

In this Arrow, we’ll also:

  • appraise the effects of alliteration;
  • see how specific nouns add power to writing;
  • examine the versatile em dash;
  • connect with coordinating conjunctions;
  • analyze acronyms ASAP;
  • see how distinct colors make images pop; and so much more!

Purchase the book.

Get the Arrow.

Brave Writer Boomerang
Boomerang (ages 13-14)

The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan

This first installment of Rick Riordan’s best-selling series based on Greek mythology is an action-packed thrill ride that keeps teens turning the pages!

In this Boomerang, we’ll:

  • talk about conversation style;
  • investigate genre;
  • muse about myths;
  • wonder and work out if it’s who or whom;
  • embark on a dramatic Hero’s Journey;
  • discuss dialogue with an authoritative author; and so much more.

Purchase the book.

Get the Boomerang.

Brave Writer Slingshot
Slingshot (ages 15-18)

Animal Farm by George Orwell

Among the most widely-read fables of all time, this satirical novella will give your family lots to talk about!

In this Slingshot, we’ll

  • mull over a monologue manifesto;
  • ruminate on rhetorical questions;
  • probe personal maxims;
  • spot symbols and forecast with foreshadowing;
  • dissect dialogue;
  • pore over propaganda; and much more.

A note about content: Animal Farm is an allegory reflecting the overthrow of monarchy and rise of communism in Russia, which was characterized by violence and death as well as propaganda and disinformation. We encourage parents to read ahead in order to be prepared for deep conversations with your teens.

Purchase the book.

Get the Slingshot.

Brave Writer

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