My favorite time of year has arrived once again here in upstate NY. The days are getting shorter, the mornings are crisp, and the smell of burning leaves is in the air. Some days I just stand on my back step and breathe deeply of the scents of this season I love so much.
With the start of autumn comes a myriad of opportunities to work hands-on science activities into your homeschool plans. I've written about my passion for both science and the fall season in a previous blog entry, so I don't want to repeat what I shared there. But if you're looking for some great science projects for the start of your school year, you may want to check out that post for some ideas.
This week I saw some adorable pictures from a friend of mine who had taken her children apple picking. It brought back wonderful memories from when our family had done the same. Even if you don't live in the heart of apple country as I do, there are some creative projects you and your children can do with this favorite fruit.
One fun way to build apples into your studies is to begin by reading Johnny Appleseed: The Story of a Legend. The story of this famous American makes for wonderful discussion about finding your passion and pursuing it. John Chapman spent more than 40 years traveling around and sharing his passion to encourage the people he met. You can celebrate his birthday (September 26th) by baking some apple crisp, or an apple pie, and sharing apple-focused activities.
The web is full of great ideas for hands-on projects tied to Johnny Appleseed. Here are just a few that I think would be great fun ...
- Johnny Appleseed printables from about.com are great for older children.
- A printable booklet for younger children with puzzles and coloring pages by Enchanted Learning
- An apple beaded safety pin craft recommended for children ages 6 and up
- Apple cinnamon dough was always one of my favorites. And it makes your house smell wonderful!
- A shameless link to one of our most favorite apple dishes ... Crunchy Apple Dessert How can you go wrong with apples, cinnamon and ice cream?!
One of the greatest benefits of homeschooling is the freedom to focus on a topic and pursue it as far as your imagination will take you. In the process, not only do your children learn, but you build some wonderful memories together as a family. So don't let my favorite season go by without capitalizing on all it has to offer your homeschool.
Still on the journey . . .
~Judy Wnuk
P.S. - If you're looking for some other projects to pursue, be sure to check out Sonlight's Pinterest page. Karla has created an apple board full of other fun activities you can explore with your students.
