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Celebrate Memorial Day 2025 with these FREE Virtual Military Museum Tours!

May 21, 2024 Leave a Comment

Memorial Day 2025 is on Monday, May 26, and as home educators we want to make sure our kids not only learn the history and significance of Memorial Day, but celebrate in a way that is enjoyable and helps them retain the knowledge they learn.

From Wikipedia:

Memorial Day (originally known as Decoration Day) is a federal holiday in the United States for honoring and mourning the U.S. military personnel who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. From 1868 to 1970, it was observed on May 30. Since 1971, it is observed on the last Monday of May.

This is a day to remember ALL veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice defending our nation, from 1775 to today, and is incredibly important to pass on to future generations. Here are some engaging and fun ways to learn, celebrate, respect, and remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation:

***Be sure to join our How To Homeschool For Free Support Group for daily encouragement and more great resources for your homeschooling journey!***

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Filed Under: Articles, History, Holidays

Exploring History through Fun: Free Christopher Columbus Facts Printable Coloring Pages!

September 4, 2023 Leave a Comment

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History comes alive when we find creative ways to engage with it, and what better way to captivate your kids’ minds than through coloring pages that offer both entertainment and education? In this digital age, where screens dominate our attention, taking a step back to appreciate historical figures like Christopher Columbus through printable coloring pages can be a fantastic learning experience for children and even adults.

Kids Activities Blog has created these fun and free coloring pages as a great way to introduce kids to the man credited with discovering America. You can find them over here.

Christopher Columbus: A Brief Overview

Christopher Columbus, an Italian explorer, is often credited with discovering America in 1492. However, his voyage was just one part of a larger series of events that shaped the world as we know it today. Engaging with his story through coloring pages can offer a simplified yet intriguing introduction to this historical figure.

The Educational Value of Coloring Pages

Coloring pages have been a staple of childhood activities for generations, and their educational value goes beyond just a fun pastime. Here’s how coloring pages, especially those centered around historical figures like Christopher Columbus, can benefit learners of all ages:

Visual Learning: Coloring pages provide visual representations of historical events and figures. They allow learners to grasp complex concepts and historical narratives through images, helping them remember facts more effectively.
Fine Motor Skills: The act of coloring helps refine fine motor skills in young children, contributing to their overall physical and cognitive development.
Historical Engagement: When coloring pages are accompanied by interesting facts and information, they encourage children to engage with history in a way that goes beyond textbooks.
Multisensory Experience: The combination of visual engagement, tactile interaction (holding crayons or colored pencils), and cognitive processing creates a multisensory experience that enhances learning retention.

Be sure to check out all of our history resources at How to Homeschool for Free!

Be sure to join our How To Homeschool For Free Support Group for daily encouragement and more great resources for your homeschooling journey!

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Filed Under: American History, European History, History, Printables

FREE Greenleaf Guide to Old Testament History eBook!

August 30, 2023 Leave a Comment

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The Greenleaf Guide to Old Testament History is available to download for completely FREE! All you have to do is go through the checkout process here and you will receive an email with a link to download the PDF. (no credit card is required during checkout)

This looks like an amazing resource for anyone looking to educate their kids on the basics of Old Testament. Here’s a brief synopsis of what you get from the book’s description:

This book outlines a reading program which will take you through the history of Israel by reading through the historical books from Genesis to Nehemiah chronologically. Old Testament history is divided into 196 Bible readings (approximately 1 chapter each) along with some suggestions of how to cover the material and keep it interesting. For each reading there is a series of questions to help you focus on the significant details.

Be sure to join our How To Homeschool For Free Support Group for daily encouragement and more great resources for your homeschooling journey!

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Filed Under: Bible, Core Subjects, History

Free Arts & Crafts Lesson Plans from Crayola!

May 2, 2023 Leave a Comment

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UPDATE: This freebie is no longer available

Did you know that Crayola has FREE Subject based lesson plans? I did not, but was so excited to find these! At Crayola.com you can find lesson plans to go along with several subjects such as Science, Math, and history! You can search by subject, grade, etc, and it will return several ideas you can use in your homeschool. Love this!

Don’t forget to check out all the FREE Homeschool Curriculum suggestions on How To Homeschool For Free!

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Filed Under: Core Subjects, Elementary/Pre-K Math, History, Math, Science

200 Free History or Science Lessons Online!

April 28, 2023 Leave a Comment

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Kids Discover Online has tons of interactive lessons, videos and so much more available for students. They do have a monthly cost for unlimited use, BUT you can register for a free account and have access to up to 200 free lessons. That should get you through quite a few weeks if used as a supplement.

They have several options to choose from in science & history – astronomy, historical figures, time periods, etc. Go here to create your free account or click the graphic above.

Also, check out all the FREE online Homeschool resources on How To Homeschool For Free!

***Be sure to join our How To Homeschool For Free Support Group for daily encouragement and more great resources for your homeschooling journey!***

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Filed Under: Core Subjects, Geography, History, Science

Free Printable Ancient Greece Lapbooks!

April 26, 2023 Leave a Comment

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Are you studying Ancient Greece in your homeschool? If so you will definitely want to check out this freebie from Tina’s Dynamic Homeschool Plus. These TWO Free Printable Ancient Greece Lapbooks are available to print at anytime. These lapbooks contain mini-books, notebooking pages, and even a pe-k section. Print these Free Ancient Greek Lapbooks here and here.

Check out all the Free History Learning Resources on How To Homeschool For Free!

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Filed Under: European History, History, Lapbooks, Printables, Resources

15 BEST History Channels on YouTube for Kids!

April 9, 2023 Leave a Comment

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BEST History YouTube Channels for Kids!

I’m always searching for ways to supplement my kids’ education. One of the most amazing aspects of teaching them is that I’m always learning! I get excited when we find material to enjoy together. History is one of those subjects that our family is very passionate about and that we can’t get enough of.

Fortunately for us, there are channels on YouTube with dedicated historians and educators, creating incredible content for us to enjoy, all a few clicks away!

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Disclaimer

Some of these channels contain strictly history-based content, and some of them include videos on a range of topics. We have found a number of these channels helpful to reinforce the subjects we are covering. But for the sake of propriety, it must be stated that we don’t necessarily endorse all content on every channel. As with all things, we use our best judgment in determining appropriate content for our family.

Here are our top history channels! (some channels have been removed since original publication)

1. Clarendon Learning

Clarendon Learning is a non-profit that produces educational material and resources. Their YouTube channel offers videos on a variety of subjects and their history videos are super informative.

2. Feature History

These videos include topics covering everything from the Mongols to the evolution of military 4×4’s! Fun animation and slightly more graphic content make this channel perfect for history buffs 13 and up.

3. WWI Uncut on BBC

This is a deep dive look at The Great War, brought to life beautifully by the BBC. WWI Uncut explains why trenches were so important to fighting men, as well as hardships other than bullets that soldiers faced.

4. Epic History TV

Truly epic and styled more closely to documentaries and shows on the History Channel, Epic History TV focuses on the most dramatic events and people, from WW2 to Blackbeard the Pirate. 15-20 minute videos are packed full of maps, graphics, and details about the major events from history

5. Schmoop

This strangely named channel has lots of really fun videos that your students will love. The kid-friendly format is great for younger students while engaging older ones (moms too!)

6. Simple History

Ideal for teens and adults, these videos feature graphic novel type animation. Some videos include more graphic images so these are best enjoyed by ages 13 and up.

7. Khan Academy

With free curriculum, videos and resources, Khan academy is a staple in many homeschool households. Their YouTube channel offers history videos on topics ranging from ancient Egypt to the Vietnam war and everything in between. This is an excellent resource for all things history and much more!

8. Homeschool Pop

Aimed at elementary-aged kids, this channel is full of great videos about landmarks, the White House and the 50 states. This is another great place to find videos about everything your elementary student is studying right now!

9. The Touring Teacher

This channel is similar to Mr. Betts Class in that the instructor travels to lots of places and talks about them. This one is aimed at younger kids and provides great insights into life in different historical periods.

10. Kids Academy

This is another great resource for younger kids, featuring a wide range of topics in multiple subjects. Kids Academy history topics include videos about American inventors, the Civil Rights Movement and the Journey to Jamestown.

11. A Kid Explains History

This one might be my favorite! Mr. Q is your teacher and he’s got videos about all kinds of stuff. He’s 12 now, but he’s an old pro at adorably and accurately explaining history for your educational enjoyment.

12. Free School

Featuring videos about Harriet Tubman, The US Constitution, and many more, Free School is kid-friendly and full of facts to help supplement what your kids are learning.

***Make sure to join our How to Homeschool for Free Facebook Support Group for daily encouragement and more great resources for your homeschooling journey!***

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Filed Under: American History, European History, History, U.S. State History, Videos

Resources To Learn About Italian American Heritage Month

October 1, 2022 Leave a Comment

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October is Italian American heritage month!

Few cultures have influenced the world like Italy. From politics to pasta, music to Michelangelo, Italy has contributed so much to the rest of the world. Whether you have Italian ancestry or not, this is a great time to take a closer look at the history and culture of this fascinating country.

There are so many videos about the history of Italy on YouTube! A simple search will turn up hundreds of options for you to choose from, so it’s always a great resource. But if you don’t want to preview a dozen videos for content appropriateness, then this is a fun and informational video that’s a great place for kids to start!

Resources and ideas

There are a great many books for kids about Italy and Italian immigration to America! Here are a few of our faves!

All the Way to America: The Story of a Big Italian Family and a Little Shovel – Dan Yaccarino (picture book, ages 4 and up)

The Renaissance Thinkers: With History Projects for Kids (The Renaissance for Kids) – Diane C Talyor (chapter book, ages 10 and up)

Ancient Rome for Kids through the Lives of its Heroes, Emperors, and Philosophers – Catherine Fet and Scott Shuster (chapter book, ages 8-12)

You can also check out this free Italy unit study for Italian American Heritage month from Peanut Butter Fish Lessons!

Life Beyond the Lesson Plan also has a fascinating (and free) unit study about Michelangelo to download and print!

Italian classical music has had a huge impact on American culture in entertainment and media! Check out this fun video about 10 Italian songs you didn’t know you knew!

And for the food lovers in your house, get in the kitchen and cook some delicious Italian-inspired dishes this month! Happy Italian-American Heritage Month! While you’re there, try our recipes for gluten-free alfredo sauce and homemade zoodles!

***Be sure to join our How To Homeschool For Free Support Group for daily encouragement and more great resources for your homeschooling journey!***

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Filed Under: American History, European History

The Best Games for Homeschoolers

June 27, 2020 Leave a Comment

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I love games for homeschooling! Our fun time can also be learning time if we pick the right one. Sure, there are plenty of educational websites and apps for kids, and we’ve found them super helpful over the years. We’ve found some fantastic digital back-up for geography and math.

But sometimes it’s nice to turn off the screens and just sit around a board or card game. Some of my favorite childhood memories are playing card games with my family. I play some of those same card games to build memories with my children. And if a game also happens to reinforce a learning skill or concept, then that’s a double win!

Besides the obvious benefits, playing games together also helps develop and hone social skills, like verbal communication, taking turns, and sharing. Games also help with cognitive and memory development.

This is what you might call a master list of educational games. All ages and skill levels are represented so there’s a little something for everyone.

SHOULD I INCLUDE A BLURB ABOUT AFFILIATE LINKS?

***Make sure to join our How to Homeschool for Free Facebook Support Group for daily encouragement and more great resources for your homeschooling journey!***

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Filed Under: Educational Games, Geography, History, Math, Science, Writing & Grammar

Educational PODCASTS For Kids! History, English, Science, and More!

March 17, 2020 Leave a Comment

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Free Educational Podcasts for Kids!

There are LOTS of great podcasts out there that are perfect to add to your school day! Each link below goes directly to that educational podcast for kids on the Apple Podcast app, so you might want to click on the links from your phone so that the podcast app will open immediately.

Please be sure to share this page with anyone that you think might be interested. Also, if you’re new to homeschooling make sure to also check out this list of 450+ FREE Online Educational Resources!

***You can also join our How to Homeschool for Free Facebook Support Group for daily help, freebies, encouragement, and more to support you in your homeschooling journey!***

Story Time – Bible, Fairy Tales, and More

Superbook Video Podcast – Superbook teaches children in every language and culture timeless moral truths and life lessons through the captivating, Bible-based adventures of two time-traveling children and their robot friend.

Story Pirates – Story Pirates is a group of world-class actors, comedians, improvisers, and musicians who adapt stories written by kids into sketch comedy and musical theater.

1-Year Daily Audio Bible for Kids – One year through the New Testament with Daily Audio Bible host Brian Hardin and his daughter China, son Maxwell and wife Jill. Through the Bible for kids by kids.

Smash Boom Best – A debate show for kids and families. Every episode takes two cool things, smashes them together, and let’s you decide which is best. Cats versus dogs. Pizza versus tacos. Super speed versus super strength.

Circle Round – Created and produced by parents of young children, WBUR’s Circle Round is a podcast that adapts carefully-selected folktales from around the world into sound- and music-rich radio plays for kids ages 4 to 10. Each 10- to 20-minute episode explores important issues like kindness, persistence and generosity.

Kids Corner Terrene Episodes – This half-hour adventure for kids (ages 6-12) follows Lizarardo “Liz” Lacerta and his reptilian friends in the little town of Terrene. In the quest for fun, Liz and his pals often get themselves into trouble! With the help of their parents and other grown-up lizards like Grandpa Anole and Granny Gecko, they wrestle with the challenges and drama of childhood, finding real answers in the Bible.

Andersen’s Fairy Tales by Hans Christian Andersen – The Little Mermaid, The Ugly Duckling, The Snow Queen, The Real Princess and a host of other wonderful tales which form so much a part of childhood are part of Andersen’s Fairy Tales, by Hans Christian Andersen.

By Kids, For Kids Bible Stories – Bible stories for children, brought to life with a rich tapestry of sound, performed by kids, for kids.

Kathy’s Kids Storytime Podcast – A weekly podcast for kids ages 3-12 where Mrs. Kathy tells stories that share life lessons and Christian values.

Stories Podcast – A Bedtime Show for Kids of All Ages – They perform a new children’s story every week. The stories range from retellings of fairy tales like Snow White to classics like Peter Rabbit and even completely original works.

Science

Creation Science for Kids Show – Explores the Bible, history, and the world around us to see how much Jesus loves science

Brains On: Science Podcasts for Kids – Brains On is a weekly science podcast for kids co-hosted by kid scientists! Previous shows include the topics of dust, pianos, and how the internet works!

Reasons to Believe – RTB’s mission is to spread the Christian gospel by demonstrating that sound reason and scientific research—including the very latest discoveries—consistently support, rather than erode, confidence in the truth of the Bible and faith in the personal, transcendent God revealed in both Scripture and nature.

Wow in the World – Hosts Mindy Thomas and Guy Raz guide curious kids and their grown-ups on a journey into the wonders of the world around them. We’ll go inside our brains, out into space, and deep into the coolest new stories in science and technology.

English/Language

Grammar Girl Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing – Grammar Girl provides short, friendly tips to improve your writing and feed your love of the English language.

Six Minute Grammar – BBC Radio invites you to build your grammar skills in their six-minute podcast every Tuesday

Six Minute Vocabulary – BBC Radio invites you to build your vocabulary in six minutes every Monday

Spanish Grammar Review – Provides interactive grammar exercises for the intermediate to advanced Spanish student.

Grammar and Writing Advice – English writing and Grammar advice brought to you guy Scribendi.

History

The American History Podcast – A weekly podcast dedicated to detailing the history of America from right before the time of discovery up through the present.

The British History Podcast – Chronological retelling of British history with a focus on the lives of the people.

The History of Rome – A Weekly podcast about the history of the Roman Empire, beginning with Aenea’s arrival in Italy and ending with the exile of Romulus Augustulus, last emperor of the Western Roman Empire.

Tides of History – World history about events across from all over the world in a high-quality, well-produced history podcast.

Wallbuilders Live! – Daily Journey into the past to to capture the ideas of the Founding Fathers of America and then apply them to the major issues of today.

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Filed Under: Bible, Classic Literature, Freebies, History, Podcasts, Reading, Resources, Science

Celebrate Memorial Day 2025 with these FREE Virtual Military Museum Tours!

Exploring History through Fun: Free Christopher Columbus Facts Printable Coloring Pages!

Be sure to join our How To Homeschool For Free Support Group for daily encouragement and more great resources for your homeschooling journey!

FREE Greenleaf Guide to Old Testament History eBook!

Be sure to join our How To Homeschool For Free Support Group for daily encouragement and more great resources for your homeschooling journey!

Free Arts & Crafts Lesson Plans from Crayola!

200 Free History or Science Lessons Online!

Free Printable Ancient Greece Lapbooks!

15 BEST History Channels on YouTube for Kids!

BEST History YouTube Channels for Kids!

Disclaimer

Here are our top history channels! (some channels have been removed since original publication)

1. Clarendon Learning

2. Feature History

3. WWI Uncut on BBC

4. Epic History TV

5. Schmoop

6. Simple History

7. Khan Academy

8. Homeschool Pop

9. The Touring Teacher

10. Kids Academy

11. A Kid Explains History

12. Free School

Resources To Learn About Italian American Heritage Month

October is Italian American heritage month!

Resources and ideas

The Best Games for Homeschoolers

History and Geography Games

Science Games

Math Games

Word Games

Educational PODCASTS For Kids! History, English, Science, and More!

Free Educational Podcasts for Kids!

Story Time – Bible, Fairy Tales, and More

Science

English/Language

History

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