It’s laundry day and the washer and dryer are arguing about who has the harder job. Write their conversation!
New to freewriting? Check out our online guide.
Support → Trust → Confidence
We want our kids to write—even if it’s messy, muddled, or misspelled for now.
No words on the page means no words to grow on.
Brave Writer’s online class Write for Fun: Dream Big offers a frolic through a slew of entertaining, active writing processes that get your children’s creative juices flowing! Our primary objective is to support and empower each student.
This class is totally doable.
- Manageable workload, a little structure
- Only 3-week commitment
- Practice for middle graders having gentle deadlines
- Friendly support from our writing coach!
Support is NOT simply saying “Good job!”
Here are some instructor comments directly from the Write for Fun classroom.
We point out what they’re doing well:
“Hip hip hooray for dogs! You have also structured this paragraph rather expertly. By letting me know how many reasons you are going to list, I know just what to expect!”
We invite more details:
“I am curious to find out what you decide to go for. Will this be a rhyme of gardening advice, where a master gardener is being asked for some top tips? Or perhaps the whimsical answer of a sassy gardener whose aim is to mislead!? I will have to be patient to find out!”
We respond to content:
“Oh, no! You describe a roller coaster of emotion, Scott! You’re super excited about your cubes. You invest in them, anticipating the fun you’ll have, only to have your hopes dashed!”
We model good writing:
“Surprises, twists, and turns add spice to a story and keep your reader on their toes and engaged!”
We encourage:
“You’re definitely onto something! Understanding, or at least trying to understand, why someone is behaving in the way that they are is an excellent step toward finding solutions that work for all involved!”
So if your child balks at the mere mention of writing, no amount of spelling or handwriting practice can fix that. Mechanics don’t build confidence the same way support and trust do.
That’s why Brave Writer devotes several of our online classes to lifting children UP while improving their writing skills.
[Podcast #215] Planned Spontaneity
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
- Geocaching: geocaching.com
- Bingo Card: bravewriter.com/blh-calendar-template-bingo-card
- Julie’s Books: bravewriter.com/book-shop/list/books-by-julie-bogart
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention!
- Want a break from all the school planning you did this Fall? Sign up for online classes with Brave Writer and know your classes will be there when you’re ready. Visit bravewriter.com/online-classes to learn more!
- Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Go to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie
- Website: bravewriter.com
- Instagram: @juliebravewriter
- Twitter: @bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Connect with Melissa
- Website: melissawiley.com
- Substack: melissawiley.substack.com
- Instagram: @melissawileybooks
- Twitter: @melissawiley
- Facebook: facebook.com/authorMelissaWiley
Produced by NOVA Media
Brave Writer Precept #10: We Will Come to Know Ourselves
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
Friday Freewrite: Time Flies
When people say “time flies” they usually mean that time seems to pass very quickly. But what if time could actually fly? Describe what that might be like from Time’s perspective.
New to freewriting? Check out our online guide.
