Some of these Articles and Projects I presented or wrote for parents and patrons of the libraries I worked for.
Interests/Passions/Hobbies/Collections/Motivating Through Interests
For Children of all Ages including YOU!
What:
May I suggest that children find out about/study something they are interested/ passionate about, collect, or have as a hobby? They can use the Internet, books, and/or speak/write to people who also have that interest, hobby clubs, etc. For example, I had a neighbor of mine correspond with a student about shells, and another student wrote to a relative of mine who was good at sign language. (Thus finding a connection) Many of you are probably already doing this.
How:
Think about something that makes your child happy and he/she likes that they may be interested in learning more about.
Some of “50 Ways to Bring Out Your Child’s Best:”
https://www.institute4learning.com/resources/articles/50-ways-to-bring-out-your-childs-best/
Let your child discover his/her own interests. Pay attention to the activities he/she chooses
Expose your child to a broad spectrum of experiences
Give your child permission to make mistakes
Encourage questions
Plan special family projects
Don’t pressure your child to learn
Share your work life and/or interests (or grandparents’)
www.institute4learning.com › resources › articles › 50-ways-to-bring-.
Perhaps Use this Sample Questionnaire to share with your child to get some idea about their Interests/Passions/Hobbies/Collections:.
When you have free time what do you do and where do you go?
Do you prefer being with others or being alone?
What are your favorite academic subjects?
Do you like/enjoy: nature, plants, animals, music, singing, listening or playing an instrument, doing or watching dance, art, acting, crafts, using different media (paint, clay, others), woodworking, playing outside, etc.?
Do you like/enjoy reading: fiction, nonfiction, plays, poetry, graphic novels, newspapers, comic strips, magazines, etc.?
What are some of your favorite books?
Do you like/enjoy cooking? What type of food (s)?
Do you like/enjoy taking things apart and putting them back together (like puzzles, clocks, telephones, etc.) and building? Please check this website out:
https://sites.google.com/site/kidsbuildingthings/products/taking-things-apart
Do you like/enjoy sports: watching, participating, both?
Are you curious about different cultures? Which ones?
What are you interested in learning more about?
What do you feel strongly about and want to help–? (Possible Causes: ex. homelessness, special needs people, Peace, animals, the earth, etc.)
What are you interested in/passionate about/”that calls to you/excites you? (from “Simple Abundance” By Breathnach)
Do you have any collections or hobbies? (or would you like to have)
What are some of your questions or things you are curious about? (Keep a list on your refrigerators of your child’s questions)
Fill in: I love to ______
People I look up to__________
Is there anything else you would like to tell/share about yourself?
From My Book:, “Many Pebbles to Make a Difference: Inspiring Ways You Can Improve Children’s Lives by Making Connections: Education in Different Environments,” pages 116-117
References: Dewey (1913) suggested “some time ago that trying to find out what is of interest to students is an important part of schooling.”
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/00461520.1991.9653136
“Hobbies keep one occupied and are always great for learning social skills. Your child is not alone in whatever he does and the deeper he gets into the hobby, the more social skills he will develop. (Via in person, phone or the Internet) Many hobbies require one to work in groups or find someone with similar interests. (Member of Clubs) So your child will not just be working alongside with people with similar interests, but also with people from different backgrounds and cultures.”
Using Interests in my Work Life:
As a Motivational Teacher I wanted to work with students through their interests/passions/hobbies and help to strengthen them and their self-esteem, giving them something positive to hold onto and be interested in.
In teaching elementary school, previous classes I had taught would come to my now class and present their interests in Interest Groups. While teaching at an Alternative high school, students would share their interests with me.
I initiated Hobby Fairs in two library systems settings, where children and adults shared their hobbies as patrons wandered around asking questions. See my Book “Many Pebbles to Make a Difference: Inspiring Ways You Can Improve Children’s Lives by Making Connections: Education in Different Environments pages 212-218
I recommended that parents and teachers encourage their children’s interests/passions such as in the Fine Arts as music, drama, playing an instrument, art, or Sports, Science, etc.) .
I am also the author of four books: “Many Pebbles to Make a Difference: Inspiring Ways You Can Improve Children’s Lives by Making Connections: For Families, Parents, Grandparents; Education in Different Environments; Reading And Books; and “Multiculturalism And Peace.” These books have more information on Interests and children.
The Key:
Finding the person’s interest.
Presentations: Share with your family what you have learned about your interest/passion, hobby/collection.
Some Ideas/Activities for Your Child (Via Subject)
For the following below, you can think about it, tell someone, or write about it.
Reading:
- Have a READ-A THON in your family, either reading to yourself or reading to someone (parent or younger sibling, etc.).
- “Drop Everything and Read” or “Sustained Silent Reading” (SSR): Everyone in your home drops everything and Reads at a certain time.
- Who is your favorite Book character?
- Who is a Character from a book you would like to invite over to play, dine, etc. What would you talk about?
- Set up a Book Discussion within your family or with friends. You decide how you want to run it.
- Read a book and write a Book Review (title, author, why recommended, and a draw a picture) or write a Teaser like a movie preview about the book.
- Keep a List of the titles and authors of books you have read.
- Read “Frindle” By Andrew Clements. Make up your own word with its own meaning.
- Choose a book you like that has many books written on the same theme. Compare the books. ex. “The Turnip.”
- Read several books written by the same author. What was similar or what was different in the books? (Precludes, sequels)
- Read some Children’s Classics which are Books that have a special something in the writing style, plot, character, and inner message that shines through to children. Do you agree they should be considered Classics?
- Read a Book or Tell a Story to a younger child.
- Share your favorite books with your parents. Ask them what were their favorites?
- What do you think about Books VS the Movie of the Book?
- Look for books with art worthy Illustrations. (not cartoon like) Do they enhance the book?
- Read about an Author of your favorite book? Try reading a biography about them.
- Some ways to encourage “Pleasurable Reading” or ”Reading for the Fun of It”
- Have your child see you reading. It lets your children know you regard reading as a valued activity in your home and that you can relax with books, as well as, learn from them. Children model after you. Let them see you reading all types of materials.
- Take a book wherever you go and encourage your child to also.
- Make a regular (weekly) visit to the library to get books of interests and for pleasure reading. Encourage children to pick out their own books. Encourage them to browse. Find out what your child’s interests are. Encourage that. Keep a list on the refrigerator of a child’s questions and topics they seem interested in that you can take on your library’s visits.
- Continue to read aloud to children even when they are reading by themselves. From My Book: “Many Pebbles to Make a Difference: Inspiring Ways You can Improve Children’s Lives by Making Connections: For Families, Parents, Grandparents page 81.”
Creative Writing:
- Creative Writing is writing that expresses ideas, feelings, emotions, and thoughts in an imaginative way. You can write a Diary/Journal), (Ex. Write a “Grateful Journal”) write with prompts, (ex. “How would I like the world to be?” or “What is a friend?”), write a poem or music or a song, or an Adventure Story. (Choose a character: person, animal, imaginary and a location. Describe the character in the first chapter. Each week write another chapter on such topics as your home, friends, favorite activities, hobbies, music, games, books, sports, etc.)
To help you write stories creatively here are some possibilities
- Beginnings: Ex. “As I turned the corner I saw—” and “All of a sudden my pillow began to talk to me—-”.
- Endings: Ex. “I never thought it could happen to me a second time, but it did” and “And that is how the best day of my life ended.”
- Titles: Ex. “I will never understand” and “Let me share with you how I was born old and aged younger.”
Your History:
- Family Stories are stories about your family to pass on. What is a something about you, you would like to have your grandchildren remember about you? (Your Legacy is something that is left behind after a person has passed sharing what you have learned and bequeathing your values.)
- Think about yourself as a younger child. Now think about yourself as an adult with a job. What kind of job are you interested in now?
- Write a letter to your Future You as an adult. What would you want your adult self to know?
- Look at an Everyday Object. Describe it to someone from the past or the future.
- Dear Grandchild Letter: Write a pretend letter to your future grandchild telling about your life now. You might share about a typical day including information on school, chores, family life, entertainment, friends, music, favorite books, sports, hobbies, etc.
- Interview your Grandparents or Older Adults. (Record or write them down) Ex. of some questions. “When was the best time of your life?” “What scared you as a child?,” and “What advice would you like to give me?”
Your Interests:
- Think about or write down your strengths and weaknesses, likes and dislikes, what you are interested in learning more about, what are you passionate about, what are your interests.
- Start collecting articles about your Interests. Talk to someone else who may share your Interests.
- Begin a Collection or a Hobby. Talk to someone else who may share your Collection or Hobby
- Multicultural: Learn about a country, culture, religion, etc. different than yours. Talk to someone who is from this country, culture, religion, etc.
The Arts
Music
- What type of music do you enjoy listening to?
- Do you want to play an instrument? (if you don’t already play one)
- Do you like to sing? What?
- Listen to classical music like: John Sousa’s Marches, or “In the Hall of the Mountain King” By Grieg or the Finale of the “William Tell Overture” By Rossini and pretend you are the conductor.
Art:
- What type of art do you like?
- Use the book, “Come Look With Me: Enjoying Art with Children” By Blizzard to look at children in art.
- “Old Masters” with children in their work: Homer, Renoir, Monet, Cassatt
- Do you like to draw, paint, using watercolors, chalk, colored pencils, charcoals, etc.?
Dance: (Movement)
- What type of dance do you like? (Ex. folk dancing)
- Listen and dance to some music sharing how you feel. (Interpretative dance is depicting a story or a definite emotion)
Drama:
- Paper Bag Dramatics: Put several related and unrelated items in a large paper bag (ex. child compass, gloves, paper plates, large plastic tablecloth, maps, garden supplies, etc.) Create a play or skit or a short story using these items (props) by yourself or with others.
- Use a Dress up Box of Things to put on skirts, pants, gloves, jewelry, shirts, etc. to put on a play.
Peace:
- Kindness: How can you be kind to someone who isn’t kind to you? (This is a tough question)
- Giving: What could you give away that is most meaningful to you? (Read “The Littlest Angel” By Charles Tazewell)
- Get a pen pal and begin writing to them. One example to try is https://www.globalpenfriends.com/
“My Home Museum” or “My Life Story” or “Instead of De-Cluttering, Keep Your Precious Things Organized into Exhibits” or “Scrap Booking My Home”
Why:
I have always enjoyed going to museums. I have worked in several museums as the Fort Lauderdale Historical Museum and the Miami Youth Museum. My husband and I began a children’s museum, The Long Island Explorium, A Hands-On Children’s Museum which unfortunately did not come to fruition. I have also taken some museum courses.
Quotes:
“My house is not just dirty. I just have everything on display like in a museum”
“It is not hoarding, it’s collecting”
“I’m a Keep-holic”
My Goal:
To share about “My Home Museum.”
To encourage the reader to share their gifts (items) by using some of these ideas as a stepping off point for them
To show that everyone is unique as is everyone else and what they will exhibit will be what is important to them. (Specific Interests, hobbies, collections, etc.)
To disseminate what is important to someone in their home from the past, the present and the future including artifacts, (an object made by a human being) photographs, jewelry, pictures, etc.
When possible add labeling and an explanation from references. For example, information from a book or the Internet about an old school desk.
Who:
Anyone who is interested
Where:
In your home: Set up centers or exhibits or sections with similar items placed together
When:
Ongoing, evolving
How/What:
Is there anything you have in your home or office that may be in a closet or drawer that you would like to show (exhibit)?
Organize similar items together
Share artifacts, jewelry, photographs, pictures, etc. that one treasures
Have available typed labels of artifacts and/or photographs showing people using the artifact
Notebooks/Albums of Interests of a person (photos and letters) like drama, (placed on a director’s chair holding drama photos and drama artifacts), from cruises, famous people’s letters, pen pals’ letters, quotations, about one’s work life, parties, compliments/ references from jobs, important people’s holiday cards, etc.
Articles and/or books about the artifacts like chocolate, Braille, (awl) service dogs, sign language, shells, smiles
One can always add books on the topic for reference in the exhibit
Can also be exhibited in a drawer.
See Below for Possible Examples:
Some Exhibits would be artifacts/Objects, possible photos, and some articles.
Some may have a combination of both
Religious artifacts on a table
Old tools that may have belonged to an older relative
Dance items (ballet/ tap shoes, dance outfits, etc.) next to picture of dancers and people who live in the home who dance
Shadow boxes of certificates of organizations joined as a child like Girl Scouts, swimming certificates, youth group, Candy Striper
Photos of Babies/Adults hands and feet found in magazines
Blue Herons
Sunsets/Sunrises
Bridges/Fences
Lighthouses
Peace/Kindness/Diversity/Multiculturalism
Postcards from different countries
Money from different countries
Flags from different countries
Musical instruments from different countries
Pocket mirrors from different places visited
Magnets from different places visited
U.S. Map with yellow small stickers on places visited
World Map with yellow small stickers on places visited and green stickers for places people one knows live
State map of place living in with yellow small stickers on places visited
Puzzles of maps
Timeline laminated posters of World History and U.S. History and games on this topic
Stamps
Cameras: Polaroid, dental camera
Phones: historic types of phones: rotary, princess
Radio, transistor radio
The Historical progression of an item showing artifacts. For example: Victrola, record player, Reel to reel tape recorder, Cassette player, CD player (regular and portable)
Video player, DVD player
Different type of Speakers
Film projector and slides
Old computers, monitors
Clothes and photos of wearing the clothes with the clothes right there
Maternity Clothes
Clothes from Different Countries: Israel, India, Japan
Clothes and photos of the 1960’s
Puppets:
Pop up, Finger, Hand, Regular, Marionettes
Old toys and board games for children including puzzles and old trains
Old glasses’ frames
Pens with different companies named on it.
Cats
Quilts
Gifts made by friends that were sewed stored in a basket together
Baskets
Collection of dolls and children’s books
Older bikes
Sports outfits including cheerleading and baton twirling items
Disneyworld
1950’s Sled
Unicycle
Ice skates
Old typewriter
Rocking horses
Hobby Horses
Twins with photos of people who are twins
Left handedness with lefty’s signatures
Coco Cola
Possible Family Photos Ideas: (some next to each other/side by side)
Photos of Mother and daughter of the same age next to each other like High School/College/MA graduation, prom, Sweet Sixteen, being pregnant, holding their baby.
Mother as a child and grandchild doing the same thing like loss of first front tooth, trying on Mom or Dad’s boots, in front of their garden, eating messily in a high chair, reading as young children, riding a bike, holding a favorite stuffed animal or doll, playing chess with Uncle and grandfather, riding a Carousel, etc.
Mother, child and grandparents through the years
Separate photos of sitting on a chair each year to show growth for child
Wedding photos of grandparents, parents and daughter side by side
Photos of whom a child is named after
Birth announcement, baby picture, religious ceremony in one frame
Hand Prints of child and grandchild with photos of the child the year they made the prints
Dad made sculptures (or other artwork) of family members. Photos of the person in artwork placed next to the sculptures
Photos of being pinned, getting engaged, wedding shower, and wedding. Also have music of wedding song and plays seen on honeymoon. (Itinerary of trip gone for the honeymoon)
Photo of nursing baby chair and then sitting in it as a tween. Another photo of chair cleaned up and grandmother using it now
Photos of parties at home including invitations
Porch photos of all homes lived in that had porches
Grandfather feeding by bottle his child and then grandchild.
Photos of homes have lived in with addresses. Magnets of states have lived in
School pictures for comparisons
Photos of a child at the beginning of a school year and the end of a school year
Photos of Grandparents, adults and children as a collage
Photos of Grandparents as babies and as an adults
Sports equipment next to photos of child doing the sport
Photos of Science Fair projects of adults and child
Photos of Siblings
Photos of cousins of child
Photos of cousins of adult
At Big Family Occasions family photos with different relatives doing the same thing (like cutting the challah)
Photos of all relatives at Family Occasions put side by side together to compare
Photos of Grandparents progressing with grandchild from childhood to being taller than the grandparents
Trip photos
Diplomas with graduation gowns and hats of grandparents, children, and grandchildren
Child at different ages playing an instrument
Child at different ages in different suits for different occasions.
Child at different ages and grandfather in a baseball hat sideways
Child at different ages wearing a tie
Photos and paintings on walls of home put together in different themes.
One’s Work Life
After each job, paid or volunteer, I collected professional cards, references, brochures, photos, etc. and put them in a notebook by job. Recently I took out the highlights of these jobs and put them on a Science board, oak tag and large picture frame. (There were so many) I also made a smaller notebook with the highlights that didn’t fit on the board, oak tag and picture. I arranged them by job category (teaching, libraries, museum, Outreach, volunteer, etc.) and not chronologically. I also listed my education in notebooks.
Other Things Around My Home and Things that Are Important to Me/I Love
I have hung up collage posters (from magazines) of “Children,” “Parenting,” and “Reading for Pleasure” to share.
Things I had once but no longer have due to moving, giving away, downsizing, etc. A list and photos of artifacts I no longer have.
After people have seen your “Home Museum” ask them to sign your Comment Book (like they have at Museums)
Photos of My Exhibits
Taken by husband and also a friend (professionally done) and then arranged them with explanations in albums so there is a physical memory of “My Home Museum.”
Projects
My Mentors
Photographs of people who have been my Mentors by Peace, Librarians, Parenting, Children, Entertainers
Copies from the Front Pages of Newspapers’ Headlines of News Both Positive and Negative
(Including personal information when event happened)
I have found copies of front pages of newspapers with newsworthy events and arranged them in categories which are: Nature’s Catastrophes; Man’s Disasters; Man’s Inhumanity to Others (Black, Jews, Japanese, Native Americans); Women; Space; Impeached Presidents; Eisenhower’s and Nelson Mandela deaths; U.S. Horrors; U. S. involved in Wars; Assassinations of: Gandhi, JFK, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (plus March on Washington and “I have a Dream” speech), Robert Kennedy, John Lennon, 9 Israelis at Olympic Games killed, Prime Minister Rabin (Israel); Positive Political News; 150 Years of “The Atlanta Constitution” (information about headlines); Medical: kidney transplant, heart transplant, penicillin, polio vaccine, January 6 COVID 19 in US, COVID 19 vaccine; Misc. Info some found not in newspapers (7) and some in newspapers.
Family Tree
Family Tree with Photos and a Number Legend:
Using a Science board each person’s photo also has a number that corresponds with a legend
Another paper has the Family Tree with words saying who married whom, children, date of birth and death, marriage dates
Photos with many of the family from family gatherings are in a separate panel again labeled with a number
Put together photos of grandparents, family members, etc. at different ages,
Notebooks of photos and written information about family of origin and nuclear family with childhood memories. Included are my Dad letters when he wrote to my Mom during World War II from the Philippines in 1945 and my written comments under different topics.
Notebooks of photos and written information about family of origin and nuclear family with childhood memories. Included are my Dad letters he wrote to my Mom during World War II from the Philippines in 1945 and my written comments under different topics.
Please note there are already two relevant articles for the most recent book on Interests, Hobbies, Collections, Causes, and Passions. One is about Interests and one is a questionnaire to help find your child’s interest, etc. using specific topics in Articles/Projects.
“The following Information about Interests was written by Anne Moore, Preschool Librarian”
“March 2020 brought about big changes to families across America and the world. As the spread of COVID-19 forced people into their homes and shut down all activities, many people found themselves with extra time on their hands. For many, this was a time to explore new hobbies or and interests. People began baking, sewing, running, painting, completing puzzles, etc… The gift of time made it possible to explore interests in a way like never before. Can you imagine if this approach was applied/embedded in our educational system and children had access to interest based learning.
It was during this time that I discovered the activities that my child was involved in BC (Before COVID-19), she did not really miss. She was on a club volleyball team and she seemed rather relieved when practices and tournaments were cancelled, rather than upset. She did not grab her volleyball and bump in the yard as one who was interested in volleyball would. So why were we investing time and money into something that was not a passion? COVID has taught us that life is short and that we should not spend it on things that do not interest us.
But, what exactly are our children’s interests? As parents, how do we help them find out their passions and interests? Some interests may be fleeting, while others become passions. Some parents have resorted to enrolling their child in a myriad of activities, hoping that this will create a well-rounded adult with a variety of skills. All this does is fill up a child’s calendar with structured time and does not give them a chance to organically explore new interests.
My youngest daughter loves animals. Especially creepy, slimy, ones! This is way out of my comfort zone! But when she found a small snake in our yard, we let her keep it for a few days. We used the internet to determine what kind it was and to research its food and habitats. A visit to the Chattahoochee Nature Center taught us a lot about snakes and the rules that Georgia has to protect them. I had to push aside my own conceptual ideas about reptiles, pay attention to what sparks her, and model how to use resources to learn about her interests. Whether or not snakes and reptiles become a lifelong passion for her, she learned that she has a support group for whatever she interests her, and she learned how to research it.
It’s easier than you think. First of all, we need to put our own interests and passions aside. They are great for us, but our children are not us. Just because you were a swimming star in high school and college, does not mean that your child will love swimming. Just because you spent hours of your childhood building Lego sets does not mean that your child will find the thrill in building with plastic bricks and pursue a career in engineering. Many parents push their child into their own activities because they feel comfortable sharing those experiences with their child. They will have the answers to questions about that topic and feel that they can better help guide them. This is not bad or wrong. Don’t we all want to connect and share with our child? But parents shouldn’t push. Put your own interests aside and let your child take the wheel. Or do share your interests with your children not to get them to do them but to learn about you.
Secondly, pay attention to your child. This may mean that you will have to go outside of your comfort zone and embark on the journey with them. It’s ok if you don’t know everything (or anything) about their topic. You can learn right along with them.
Thirdly, use all of the resources at your disposal. This can be books, the internet, experts, or just about anyone. (YouTube videos and Reels) With today’s technology, we can connect with anyone anywhere. Don’t be afraid to reach out. Many people are happy to help share their love of something with a curious child. You would be surprised how relationships can form over common interests.
Julienne Marks, author has worked with children in various capacities her entire life. She recalls one child in particular, who was interested in Ancient Egypt. He was a struggling reader and Julienne had to get creative to help him explore his interest, while she herself knew very little about it. The boy would tell Julienne what he knew about Egypt, mummies and hieroglyphics. He would write his own books, while Julienne would scribe for him. He would read his books to her each time she worked with him. With her help, the boy wrote to museum curators who specialized in ancient Egypt. They replied back with pamphlets, information and even gifts from the gift shop! Julienne was able to connect him with her mother who had recently cruised along the Nile in Egypt. They became pen pals sharing information about pyramids and Sphinx. Through his interest in ancient Egypt, the boy worked on literacy and communication skills, geography and so much more! (Also written about under Motivational Teacher)”
“Interest based learning is not a new idea. Much research has been done on the benefits of interest based learning. Many preschools have adopted this philosophy by claiming to be Montessori, Waldorf, or Reggio Emilia Inspired. Montessori excels at fostering independent mastery and focused, self-paced academic work, Waldorf relies on a teacher-led, highly rhythmic structure focused on imagination, storytelling and the arts, while Reggio Emilia thrives in a collaborative, creative, and project-based environments. (When Princess Kate (2026) was in Italy she visited the Reggio Emilia School) These educators know that children learn best when they are engaged. Unfortunately, our public school system is designed in such a way where there is very little opportunity for children to choose what they want to learn, which leaves it up to parents to provide key opportunities for their children to dictate how they spend their time. Regardless of the education system in which your child is placed, parents could be the first ones to foster curiosity and passion into their children.
https://www.reggiochildren.it/en/reggio-emilia-approach/
https://montessori-ami.org/about-montessori
https://amshq.org/about-montessori/press-kit/what-is-montessori/
https://www.waldorfeducation.org/what-is-waldorf-education/
https://www.parents.com/waldorf-schools-8671603”
The author decided to send my daughter to a Waldorf preschool. But then we moved and she found another Waldorf school for kindergarten. Unfortunately there were no grades in this school. Then when her daughter was in 4th grade she went to another Waldorf School for a while. When the author retired, for several years she volunteered with a grade school class from 2nd to 6th grade and a kindergarten. (for 5 years) It was quite far away so she found another school closer to me and I played with 3 and 4 year olds. Please see the author’s book, Many Pebbles to Make a Difference: Inspiring Ways You Can Improve Children’s Lives by Making Connections: Education in Different Environments, Pages 25-28 and Chapter 7 The Waldorf School for more information on Waldorf.
In most Waldorf schools there are NO letter grades, standard testing, homework, and digital testing. Instead Waldorf uses “Narrative/Prose” that reflects the child as a whole person. First with a class Summary Report with an overview of what the entire class experienced and learned together that year. Then individual growth is described: academic progress, social interactions, emotional development, and creative expressions. The narrative highlights what the child does well and offers gentle, constructive guidance on areas to work on.
In fact when the author’s daughter was attending a Waldorf school in some of the 4th grade, she had little homework and during that time really had time to practice and played a long piano song.”(Pachelbel’s Canon in D Major)
“Blurb about Reggio Emilia: By Anne Moore, Preschool Librarian
“The Reggio Emilia approach is a child-centered philosophy of early education that began in Reggio Emilia after World War II. It views children as capable, curious learners who construct their own knowledge through exploration, play, and relationships. Teachers act as guides rather than instructors, encouraging creativity and collaboration, often through projects driven by children’s interests. A key idea is the “hundred languages of children,” meaning children express themselves in many ways—like art, sculpture, mark making, movement, and storytelling.
In the Reggio Emilia approach, children feel heard because their ideas, questions, and opinions genuinely shape what happens in the classroom. Teachers practice careful listening—observing, documenting, and reflecting back children’s thoughts—so children see that their voices matter. This builds trust and confidence, making them more willing to share and take intellectual risks.
A sense of safety comes from the environment and relationships. Classrooms are designed to be welcoming, calm, and full of accessible materials, so children can explore independently without fear of “doing it wrong.” Mistakes are treated as part of learning, not something to be corrected or judged. Strong, respectful relationships with teachers and peers also create emotional security, which encourages curiosity, collaboration, and deeper exploration.
The children’s innate curiosity and using their interests to drive an emergent, project-based curriculum. Teachers observe and document children’s interests (ex. a fascination with insects) to design provocations or in-depth projects.
The key areas of interest include nature exploration (stones, leaves), sensory experiences, dramatic play, building with loose parts, and creative expression through the “hundred languages” (art, movement, music).
The Classroom as Third Teacher: The environment is intentionally organized into distinct, inviting areas—an atelier (studio), workshop, or building zone—to spark interest and exploration.
Documentation: Photos, videos, and children’s quotes are used to revisit and deepen learning.”
Although begun earnestly during COVID, more and more preschools are having much of their day outdoors. https://naaee.org/news/press-room/press-release-nature-preschools-continue-rapid-expansion-across-united-states
For more information one can check out YouTube and videos online
IMPORTANT: From now on, on this website I will be sharing information but not putting it into any specific categories above. I am sorry there is some text without a website. It was becoming too much for me and I am burned out. But if I can, I have put the topic/subject beforehand but not in any order. However, I still think it can be useful. (There is a possibility I am repeating myself) Please excuse me if there are some repetitions.
Nature
“Knepp has a rewilding approach in England: https://knepp-estate/gardens/rewild-a-garden/”
In the nature room, underneath its exhibits are drawers (like in a museum)
“Rachel Carson’s mother loved Nature too and taught her daughter to also like it. (TV biography of Rachel Carson)
What part of nature do you enjoy the most and in what place?: (in spring) beach, brooks, waterfalls, (in summer (swimming), (in fall), jumping into crunchy leaves, ( in winter), building a snowperson, the frost.
September 20, 2026 Atlanta Parent “50 Best Nature Walks and Hikes for Kids in Atlanta.”
“An “adventure walk” is a fantastic way to turn a simple neighborhood stroll or park hike into an engaging nature study. Wherever you are walking through and collecting natural treasures it lets you bring the discovery home to examine under a magnifying glass or microscope.
What to Safely Collect
Fallen leaves & pinecones: Great for texture rubbings and identifying tree species.
Smooth rocks & pebbles: Perfect for examining mineral deposits or painting.
Acorns, seed pods, & nuts: Excellent for sorting and counting.
Shed feathers & empty snail shells: Fascinating to inspect up close for patterns and structure.
How to Examine at Home
Magnifying Glass: Inspect leaf veins, the rough edges of bark, or the texture of a rock.
Nature Journal: Have your children sketch or paint what they found, and write down where and when they found it.
Water Testing: Use shallow bowls of water to gently wash off dirt and see how leaves or seeds float.
ID Apps: Snap photos of your finds and use identification to learn the exact plant or insect species.
“Leave No Trace” Rules
Only collect items that have already fallen to the ground (never pull live leaves, flowers, or bark off growing plants).
Leave rocks, logs, and sticks where you found them if they look like someone’s home (insects and small critters live under there).
Avoid collecting anything in protected state parks or national parks where all natural items are legally protected.
Microscopic marvels
A magnifying glass walk – Ideal for children and groups of people who want to explore and experience nature.
How To Spend More Time Outside As a Family
www.essentialcuriosity.org https://www.1000hoursoutside.com/blog/how-to-four-housrs-outside.”
https://www.brighthorizons.com/article/children/children-and-nature
When I was teaching 4th grade, my class and I took a class/course for several days on Outdoor Learning in Brookville, N. Y.’s wetlands and forests. Because of this course, I will never forget what a “Gall” looks like. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gall
Places to Visit on Long Island
Tackapausha Museum and Preserve, Seaford. New York and Clark Botanic Garden, Roslyn Heights, New York, are wonderful places to take your children to on Long Island.
https://www.nassaucountyny.gov/2951/tackapausha-museum-and-preserve
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/clark_botanic_garden
https://www.childrenandnature.org/resources/indoor-expeditions-for-when-you-really-cant-go-outside/
https://www.blog.montessoriforeveryone.com/hands-on-projects-bring-nature-indoors/
https://www.etsy.com/listing/4295670017/astronomer-kid-lego-figure-with
https://www.weareoutgrown.org/resources/57030/exploring-nature-with-your-senses-taste
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9qAkj-lZm70&t=55s
Karl (with a prosthesis) can garden and enjoy nature
https://www.armdynamics.com/upper-limb-library/gardening-with-a-prosthesis
https://califfcreations.com/child-led-exploration/
https://www.plt.org/educator-tips/nature-walk-activities
https://www.delraybeachchildrensgarden.org/team (Mrs. Shelly)
Garden shirts “The garden is calling and I must go” or “I love to play in the dirt”
“African violets are fantastic, long-blooming indoor plants. Thriving in small pots with bright indirect sunlight, consistent room temperature (65-75 degrees F) and regular moisture. Bottom –water with room temperature water. “YOUTUBE Let’s Grow”
“African violets (Saintpaulia) are popular, small, and long-lived indoor plants treasured for their ability to bloom year-round. (inside) https://africanvioletssocietyof america.org/learn/violets-101/”
https://www.audubon.org/magazine/why-birds-fly-v-formation-migration-science\
Miscellaneous Subjects
Animals live in different environments like forests, deserts, grasslands, mountains, oceans, and wetlands
https://www.amnh.org/explore/ology/physics
https://kids.britannica.com/kids/article/chemistry/352943
Meteorology Go to visit a weather station
Entomology The Study of Insects
Genealogy
Clapping games
The community center often plans visits to places that correspond to the rooms at the community center. Ex. Where guide dogs are trained with obstacles in Smithtown, N.Y (the author took a field trip there and still remembers how informative and interesting it was.)
“There are many board games that are cooperative when one needs to cooperate with each other. Cooperative games are those in which players work with one another in order to achieve a common objective. The goal of a cooperative game is to reduce emphasis on competition and increase emphasis on the social aspects of working in teams and groups. Learning to cooperate includes a core set of skills needed in many other game forms such as kindness.” https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/cooperative-game
https://tabletopbellhop.com/gaming-advice/cooperative-kids-board-games/
https://childswork.com/collections/roll-a-role-series
Some children interested in the ocean will study marine biology in college. https:// www.marinebio.org/careers/us-schools/
https://www.chess.com/article/view/is-chess-a-sport
https://www.interfaithamerica.org/article/teach-religion-classroo
https://www.tradgames.org.uk/games/Mancala.htm
Preface
Mrs. Hope used to babysit as a teenager
She enjoyed children, story times for youngsters, went to school to become a teacher and children’s librarian. She liked sharing traditional music with songs and fingerplays
Reading
At her library this author had someone from the Deaf community use sign language as she read a book.
Encourage Authors (and Illustrators) to visit and share about their craft. Also having the children write to authors and illustrators. (ex. “Illustrator and Author R. Gregory Christie who also founded Gas-Art Studios which combined a children’s bookstore, an art gallery and an open art studio with children’s classes. https://www.encyclopedia.com. “
“Marianne Berkes writes informational picture books/creative non-fiction for young children/Science/ nature orientated. https://www.mariannebberkes.com”
Things to try to include somewhere “pleasure reading/trips to the library. (not only for school)
https://education.virginia.edu/news-stories/many-benefits-reading-pleasure”
Have a running list of topics that your child has brought up. Take it to the library with you
Different titles of Diaries:
Dear America Series
Princess Diaries By Cabot
Amelia’s Notebook By Moss
Diary of a Wimpy Kid By Kinney
The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian By Alexie
Hobbies
If you don’t know if you are interested in a hobby, try as many hobbies that you can.
https://www.momjunction.com/articles/teenagers-hobbies
“Hobbies can:
Build confidence
Place can make friends
Improve mental health
Develop teambuilding skills
Improve organisational skills
Learn problem solving
Set achievable goals
Gain attention to detail
Make future career choices (although there’s no rush)
https://www.barracudas.co.uk/blog/how-having-a-hobby-helps-your-childs-development/”
“Hobbies are crucial for a child’s well-being because they provide a necessary escape from academic pressure, allowing them to relax, explore creativity, and build confidence outside of a structured classroom environment. Engaging in enjoyable, non-academic activities reduces stress, boosts mental health, and helps children develop social and emotional skills. https://mhanational.org/resources/why-hobbies-are-good-for-your-mental-health/”
Some do well at Math and then there are others who have been blessed with a creative mind and wonderful imagination.
https://getpocket.com/collections/do-you-even-need-a-hobby? Utm source=pocket-newtab
A hobby can enrich, give one purpose to ones’ life, show regard and concern to others, ones gifts/talent is light is turned on, be yourself. Know that others’ opinions don’t define me. Stay true to who you are.
It’s ok to share your own interests with your child. Just don’t expect that they will love it as much as you do. BUT, they will learn to listen and respect other people and their interests, thus teaching them that it’s not “all about me.
Make space (time) for everyone’s interests. Have space to leave projects set up for days allowing physical space for your child to display artifacts of their learning (photographs, pictures s/he has drawn, etc…) Honor their interests as much as you honor yours (I think about people who are passionate about their college football teams. The home is decorated with tributes to their team (posters, blankets, cups, coasters, etc…) Allow your child to showcase their interests as much as you do yours.
https://www.nami.org/kids-teens-and-young-adults/school-resources/
https://www.standrewsgreenvalley.com/fun-mental-health/
Interests
Parents discovering a child’s interests become aware as their children grow into their personalities and try new activities and stages of exploration.
Parents should not ask children to do things they (the parents) wanted to do or failed and watch your child for their interest.
“Adults can find their passion, give it time, find ways to integrate your interests and skills with the needs of others, be proactive, and find an approach that fits you. www.essentialcuriosity.org”
Causes/Passion. It usually: helps build a sense of purpose, a desire for impact, something that is selfless, shows regard /concern for others; is a social issue and it is about helping/ giving to others. It matches up with one’s values and ethics. Some examples include organizing toy/book drives for local shelters; participating in park clean-ups; creating cards for seniors or service people.
https://ww.institute4learning.com/resources/articles/50-ways-to-bring-out-your-childs-best
Outside Groups
Scouting America (new name for old BoyScouts) and Girl Scouts, puppy raising for Guide Dogs (some have people in prison sharing ½ the time) could sign up and use the community center’s rooms
Clowns
www.caringclownsinternational.org/joyful-connections/
https://www.squeezetheclown.com/new-events
https://clownswithoutborders.org/
Kids on the Block
https://micheleepuppets.org/tag/kids-on-the-block/
https://www.barberinstitute.org/about-community-resources-kids-on-the-block
Braille
Books for children
Brailles’ Superpowers By Diamond
We Walk Together By Hilson
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tactile_alphabet
https://www.pathstoliteracy.org/overview-braille/
https://kids.britannica.com/kids/article/language/353360
https://afb.org/blindness-and-low-vision/braille/braille-resources-parents
“How not using braille is not good
https://nfb.org/sites/default/files/images/nfb/publications/bm/bm06/bm0609/bm060905.htm”
Sign Language
https://www.miracle-recreation.com/blog/common-terms-for-playground-equipment/
https://natureofearlyplay.com/product/sign-language-panel/
Adoption
“Adoption is the legal and social transfer of all parental rights, responsibilities, and other roles from one parent or parents, usually biological to a nonbiological parent or parents is called adoption. This establishment of a legally recognized lifelong relationship between adoptive parents and the adoptee. https://enwekipedia.org.wiki/Adoption”
Sports
Casey Conquers Bedtime By Wirta-Leiker
https://projectplay.org/world-sport-systems/norway
“One can learn life skills from sports. Htttps://onlinesportmanagement.ku.edu/community/life-lessons-from-sports”
“Sports helps us with fear and anxiety, greater motivation, more resilience, improved relationships, and helps us with our personal growth. It can teach us about working well with a team. Team. https://www.libertysport.com/baseball-glasses-and-goggles”
“Good Sportsmanship
It is important to be able to win without gloating, respecting one’s opponents, and being able to lose gracefully.
Here are some important principles to instill in your children:
If you lose, don’t make up excuses.
If you win, don’t rub it in.
Learn from mistakes and get back in the game.
Always do your best.
If someone else makes a mistake, remain encouraging and avoid criticizing.
Show respect for yourself, your team, and the officials of the game.
Parents are important role models, so let your children see you upholding these principles, whether you play a sport yourself or root for your child’s team from the sidelines.
Tips for teaching good sportsmanship
Good sportsmanship includes following certain guidelines for good behavior. Share these concepts with your children:
Follow the rules of the game. It might seem easier to win by doing things a different way (cheating), but everyone has to follow the rules. Explain to your child that rules are created so that sports can be played in an organized way.
Avoid arguing. Stay focused on the game instead of giving in to anger with teammates, coaches, or referees. Always avoid using bad language and negative words.
Everyone should have a chance to play. In youth sports, it’s important to encourage even those players who are the least skilled to have fun playing in the game. Parents, coaches, and even other players have an important role in allowing less talented teammates time to participate.
Play fair. Good sportsmen want to win because they followed the rules and played the best game they could. Never support any effort to win that attempts to go around the rules. Cheating is not acceptable.
Follow directions. Emphasize the importance of listening to coaches and referees and following their directions while on the field and involved in team activities.
Respect to the other team. Whether your team wins or loses, it’s important to show respect for the effort of the other team. If the other team wins, accept defeat, acknowledge their abilities, and move on. If your team wins, resist bragging—that’s what it means to be a gracious winner.
Encourage teammates. Team sports work best when each individual supports the team. Praise teammates for what they do well and encourage them when they make mistakes. Avoid criticism and unkind actions. Parents should model this behavior for children by praising them for specific things they have done well, even if they made a mistake or may not have played as well as hoped.
Respect the decisions of referees and other officials. These people are charged with making difficult decisions about plays in the game. Good sportsmanship requires that you accept a call, even if you disagree with it. Remember that it’s only one call in a long game—get back into play and focus on the game.
End with a meaningful handshake. Good sportsmen enjoy sports and know how to end a game on a positive note, whether or not they won. Threats, anger, criticism, and other negative expressions are not acceptable. https://www.stanfordchildrens.org/en/topic/default?id=teaching-children-good-sportsmanship-1-45” 4”
“Cooperation VS Competition: is there really an issue? by Ann Michelle Daniels https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17924434/”
“Why do 70% of kids quit sports? Roughly 70% of kids quit organized sports by age 13, primarily because it stops being fun. The main drivers are intense pressure from parents and coaches, over-professionalization (too many tournaments/practices), burnout, and overuse injuries. Children lose ownership of the game, turning a joyful activity into a stressful, high-stakes commitment. https://changingthegameproject.com/why-kids-quit-sports/”
“What sport is a person with ADHD more likely to win? Athletes with ADHD are more likely to excel in high-stimulation, fast-paced sports that require quick reflexes, such as martial arts, soccer, basketball, and hockey. While they often gravitate toward high-intensity team or contact sports, individual sports like swimming, tennis, and gymnastics are excellent for focusing concentration. https://www.henryford.com/blog”
“Coaches and parents who are more observers than decision makers in children’s games. https://wjla.com/news/local/sports-parents-youth-parenting-tips-psychology-child-athletes-sideline-behavior-coaching-kids-advice-athletes-coaches-postgame-criticism-coping-skills-game-day-anxiety-mental-health”
“Wheelchair basketball is played by people with different levels of physical disabilities that prevents running, jumping and pivoting. Riding on a wheelchair, a game of basketball is played among two teams of five players each.” https://www.myactivesg.com › Basketball › Basketball.”
“Special Olympics values the power sports have to allow people to reach their full potential.” https://dcp.ucla.edu › special-olympics-vs-paralympic https://resources.specialolympics.org/sports-essentials/special-olympics-and-paralympics “
Children Doing What They Liked as Youngsters and They Continue it as They Grow.
“For example, During WWll young people (boy and girl teenagers) served as secret code breakers of Bletchley Park, England https://kids.kiddle.co/Code_Girls”
Creative Writing
September 20, 2026 Atlanta Parent Magazine “The Magic of Making up Stories” at The Weber School Writing Project
https://www.theknowledgeacademy.com/blog/elements-of-creative-writing/
https://online.hull.ac.uk/blog/genres-of-creative-writing
https://www.amazon.com/Writing-Prompts/s?k=Writing+Prompts
https://www.acsedu.co.uk/info/writing/creative-writing/what-is-creative-writing.aspx
https://www.theknowledgeacademy.com/blog/elements-of-creative-writing/
https://online.hull.ac.uk/blog/genres-of-creative-writing
https://www.clippings.me/blog/elements-of-fiction/
Cursive
https://www.nea.org/nea-today/all-news-articles/why-cursive-back-classroom
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cursive
https://www.nea.org/nea-today/all-news-articles/why-cursive-back-classroom
https://www.amazon.com/cursive-writing-paper/s?k=cursive+writing+paper
https://homeschoolhelperonline.com/free-printable-spelling-dictionary-students/
https://www.clippings.me/blog/elements-of-fiction/
Introduction
Neha Gupta won the 2014 International Children’s Peace Prize for her work of her charity, Empowering Orphans.https://www.psu.edu/news/impact/story/student-neha-gupta-childrens-peace-prize-winner-brings-charity-penn-state
Inclusive Community Center for All
Classes can be a one shot deal or several weeks
Classes will be held during school breaks
Books on the topics were left out in the rooms plus they could be taken out.
Bartering
Yes, some community centers, non-profits, and specialized local organizations use bartering, work-trade, or “time banking” systems to allow individuals to pay for classes, workshops, and services without money.https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barter
https://www.google.com/search?q=do+any+community+vcneters+use+bartering+to+pay+for+classes&client
Work-Trade/Volunteer Exchange: Individuals may work a certain number of hours in fthe community center (e.g., cleaning, front desk support, marketing, or maintenance) in exchange for taking classes, such as yoga, art, or computer skills.
Time Banks: These systems operate on a “labor-time” basis, where volunteering for one hour to help the community center earns a “time dollar” or credit that can be used to take a class, effectively trading skills for education.
Skill-for-Class Exchange: A person with specialized skills, such as a baker or artist, might teach a workshop at the community center in exchange for attending a different, high-cost class.
Community-Supported Agriculture (CSA): Some organizations allow participants to trade labor hours for specialized courses, such as farming, gardening, or permaculture training.
Author’s Philosophy
Work/Challenge strengths without exceeding capabilities and do not keep trying to improve weaknesses.
“To be kind is more important than to be right. Many times, what people need is not a brilliant mind that speaks but a special heart that listens.” ― F. Scott Fitzgerald, Racconti dell’età del jazz
Music
Donna as an adult who gave violin lessons and played in an orchestra
Mama Cass “ Make Your Own Kind of Music”
Instagram Modern Parents Guide Music Child Development
Animals
“Resources for Children
SPCA Youth Programs: Offers resources for kids to learn about animal care.
PAWS (Progressive Animal Welfare Society): Features, walk events, and fundraising opportunities.
ThinkKind Australia: Offers a free Kindness Club Kit.
Audubon Society
National Geographic Kids
The National Wildlife Federation
Kids C.A.R. E Club https://pethelpers.org/humane-education/kids-c-a-r-e-club/
Resources to Help Kids Discover More About Wild Animals
“People gawking at captive wild animals is extraordinarily stressful for most of those animals—who would, in the wild, stay as far away from people as possible. But our culture accepts the fact of zoos, so this is an issue we have to discuss with our children, and explain why we don’t participate in a form of animal exploitation even if it’s widely accepted.
Read your children’s animal-friendly books. There are some gems out there in the children’s literature world that teach kids to respect animals. Check your local library. See Reading List under animals in website
Watch nature documentaries together. Today we are lucky to have technology that has the ability to transport children to animals of the land and sea in their native habitats in breathtaking, educational ways. Zoos teach children to view animals as a form of entertainment, unlike a nature show on TV or in the theater that films animals in the wild. Digital IMAX documentaries in particular have become stunning and inspiring, and you can’t help but feeling awe and respect for wild animals and with a mindset about the need to help conserve their habitats. The good news is IMAX has grown from 299 screens worldwide at the end of 2007 to more than 1,102 screens in 2016. We love PBS’ “Nature” series.
Encourage quiet observation of animals in nature. Every time you go outside there are birds, insects, squirrels, frogs, fish and other creatures to see, if you’re quiet and if you look. So explore natural areas around you. Visit a tidepool, creek or river or take a hike in a forest or nature preserve. Point out all the animals. Talk about them. Teach your children not to kill bugs. If your youngsters are loud and scare animals away, talk about animals being scared of loud noises. Every encounter with the natural world can be used to teach children about animals and their place within the local ecosystem and why it’s important to protect open spaces.
Look and listen for evidence of animals every time you are outdoors. You may see tracks, nests, or other signs of animals. You may hear birds chattering in the cold winter morning. Allow the children to point out their observations and the “clues” that wildlife is everywhere.
Encourage children to think about “what it’s like to be that groundhog” (or squirrel, or ant or pig….). This invitation to imagine not only builds vocabulary and language skills, but it also helps children develop the habit of perspective-taking, which is another term for empathy.
They will inevitably ask a million questions about animals; many of those questions you won’t know the answer to. Do some research together as a family. Ask questions. Encourage curiosity, as that’s one of our greatest teachers of being a good human. https://goexplorenature.com/2013/04/things-kids-can-do-to-help-wild-animals.html”
f riendsofanimals.org/how-to-encourage-your-childs-innate-love-of-animals/
How not to exploit animals
https://www.petakids.com/save-animals/why-animal-rights/
https://forsythfamilymagazine.com/allowing-children-to-help-care-for-a-sick-animal/
https://www.spcamc.org/programs-resources/education-outreach/how-kids-can-help-animals.h
https://www.muddypawsrescue.org/what-it-means-to-foster animalshttps://www.muddypawsrescue.org/what-it-means-to-foster animals
https://www.happytailspets.org/readingpaws
I (the author) have a real problem with circuses, zoos, etc. I cannot go to them. My daughter wrote a paper against circuses.
Our Animal friends By Watta Revolving pictures
Happy Tails Pet Therapy/ READing Paws
Careers
https://www.apa.org/education-career/k12/practice-acquisition
Astronomy
https://spaceplace.nasa.gov/menu/activities/
https://www.etsy.com/listing/4295670017/astronomer-kid-lego-figure-with
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pqis3gZwVaY https://mymodernmet.com/famous-constellations/
“Wide Field of View: Binoculars have a wider field of view, making it easy to scan a room and center on objects. Telescopes magnify a tiny fraction of a scene, making it incredibly difficult to find your target at close range.
Natural Two-Eyed Viewing: Using both eyes provides normal depth perception, whereas looking through a telescope requires keeping one eye closed and can cause eye strain.
Magnifying Glasses: Give children a standard magnifying glass and let them experiment with how it bends light and makes things appear bigger or upside-down. Explain that a telescope is just a super-powered version of this tool!
Daytime Treks: Before dealing with the complexities of night viewing, set up a kids’ telescope during the day. Have them try to spot a bird in a tree or a neighbor’s chimney. This removes the frustration of trying to find invisible objects in the dark. https://kids.britannica.com/kids/article/telescope/353843”
https://www.twinkl.com/resource/shoebox-solar-system-craft-activity-t-e-1646089858
https://www.sciencing.com/make-solar-system-diorama-kids-12062977/
You can also take virtual tours of space using NASA-powered tools and watch videos on Space on YouTube.
https://kids.britannica.com/kids/article/astronomy/352798
Paleontology
https://www.amnh.org/explore/ology/paleontology/what-is-paleontology
https://www.nhm.ac.uk/discover/how-to-become-a-palaeontologist.html
https://teachbesideme.com/what-is-a-paleontologist-easy-reader-for-kids/
https://kids.britannica.com/kids/article/fossil/353144
Visit to a dig sponsored by the community center
Hobby and Collection Fair
Many Pebbles to Make a Difference: Inspiring Ways You Can Improve Children’s Lives by Making Connections: Education in Different Environments. By Julienne Levy Marks (the author) The Fairs: pages 209-218
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lego
“How an interest became a profession and now he is an expert
William Brower became an expert on the Titanic. He read, and collected.
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm4914641/bio/?ref_=nm_ov_bio_sm”
When I was young I collected coins, stamps, arrowheads, etc. I even opened up a pretend ship with a treasure in my bedroom at about 10 years old. I am currently a full time antiques dealer for the past 47 years. And I cannot imagine ever doing anything else.
Other hobbies: Building a Sand castle, English history (kings and queens), rocks and gems, collecting perfume bottles, and handy fixing things. (usually taught by parents)
You don’t have to be the best at anything. If you enjoy it, that is what is important. (Adele Faber wrote about this about music and a child who is not great but enjoys the music.)
Hobbies are fun, special activities children choose to do just for enjoyment, based on a person or family or a friends’ interest. People want to do this in their free time, outside of school, to play, create, learn and be themselves, like drawing, stamp collection, building things, playing sports, collecting cards or playing games which aids them to grow skills and confidence. Hobbies can change, it doesn’t have to be forever. But right now it makes you happy. Hobbies are a fun activity based on a person’s interests. Many people practice hobbies during their time off from work or studying. It can become one’s passion as an adult.
One may advocate or give time to an organization that helps one’s hobby.
In General:
We are never alone, find ways to integrate your interests and skills with the needs of others, be proactive, find an approach that fits you, and one can never please all the people all the time.
https://time.com/collection/guide-to-happiness/4070299/secret- to-happiness/
https://easystoriesinenglish.com/please/#google_vignette
https://www.cpousa.com/activities-for-children-with-prosthetics/
Also have available an activity room for autistic children and adults
Here on the website you might learn more about the characters in the book.
Sometimes you find what is refreshing to your soul and you relish or it resonates with you. Feels Yes this is it like my feeling for Waldorf. This may continue when you get older as a hobby or even a career.
https://www.waterford.org/blog/independent-activities-for-kids/
Work, travel, talk and listen to people from all walks and of life and culture and ask questions
When I was a teenager, I shied away from playing sports, because I thought I wasn’t any good. I thought you had to start off with talent and skill before you could join a team. Now that I see children involved in Sports, I realize that some players aren’t that good . But they are showing up at practice to improve and getting out there, competing and gaining experience. https://currently.att.yahoo.com/lifestyle/6-parents-gave-christmas-gift-133028680.html.
Parents and caretakers may never know the seeds that are planted in a child’s life when their early interests are lovingly indulged.
Children know who they are. Trust them. If your child wants a space rocket explorer for their birthday, or wants to talk your ear off about going to a horse farm, museum or sports arena or is obsessed with a specific guitar or is constantly taking your small appliances apart and putting them back together again, they are telling you something essential about themselves. You can enable them to take their first small steps to change the world.
Yes! Yes! Yes!, Nurture that seed of curiosity in a child. Their minds are so open and flexible and willing to make creative leaps. Life is for learning.
“Your books. They are very nice! Andrea “(Homeschooling founder)
Shellie Carr “Your books are so beautiful and so important.” Is it okay for me to share them with other people?