January 11 - 15

WEEKLY HIGHLIGHTS

PRESTON

Preston's been working really hard on math this week.  He is learning about fractions.  He's been learning about equivalent fractions, least common denominator and adding and subtracting fractions.  We pulled out fraction magnets to grasp the concept of which fractions were bigger and it helped to have a visual while he was learning.  

MARISSA

Marissa's favorite thing this week was working in the kitchen.  Preston learned about Italy in his language arts' book and had an assignment and a recipe to make gnocchis.  All the kids helped me make gnocchis, which turned out really fun.  Their dad is from Argentina and he grew up with his "Abuela" making gnocchis for them.  It was fun for the kids to learn a recipe that was meaningful and delicious.  Marissa wanted to keep helping in the kitchen so we made waffles as well.  She also made me breakfast in bed one day with fruits made into cute animal shapes.  She's excited about helping in the kitchen!

CALEB

Caleb started reading "Dick and Jane" books this week.  He is doing really well and his confidence is growing.  And...no he doesn't get dressed half the time.  He lives in pajamas and never wears shoes (even in the winter playing at the park).  

OTHER

SCIENCE

The kids wanted to spend a little bit of time learning about the Solar System so we pulled some fun blow up planets out of the attic and learned the names and where each planet is located.  Our oldest brother is taking astronomy as a junior in high school and had to give a presentation on Mercury recently.  It was fun to learn a little bit more about Mercury from him and to study a little bit about planets - and then play "poison planet ball" on the tramp with all the blowup planets.  ;) 

RELATIONSHIPS

One of the things we love about homeschooling is the relationships we form and the skills our children are able to learn being around siblings more often.  This week, I witnessed friendship and love from Marissa as she helped Caleb with his new phonics workbook (without being asked).  Later in the week,  Marissa was having a sad day.  I turned around and Caleb was comforting his big sister while I was finishing our read aloud on the couch.  They are all sweet, helpful and have a level of empathy for others that is beautiful to watch!