How to Keep Your Child Learning All Day

3/30/2016

Staying at home with my three year old daughter allows me the privilege (and challenge!) of teaching her, well, just about everything. Although she would be happy to climb on a playground and finger paint all day (which we do plenty of), there is an entire world waiting for her to explore its possibilities. When I found myself focusing on similar areas over and over, I decided to create an activity chart to remind me of the array of subjects we can delve into through play.

I created this activity chart in Word and pinned it above the kids' art table. Whenever we need something new to do, I turn to this list for inspiration. The chart contains the following learning categories:

Prayer
Bible/devotional
Memory verse
Pledge of Allegiance
Letter recognition
Number recognition
Calendar
Geography
Music
Art
Spanish (or choose your own foreign language)
Godly character
Literacy
Science
Math
Fine motor
Nature
Physical activity

Page one of our daily activity chart

Being a former teacher, I often come up with original ideas in each subject area, but when I can't think of something quickly, I turn to my favorite source, Pinterest. This site is overflowing with clever ideas from other moms and teachers, and I'm all about capitalizing on their brilliance!

There are plenty of days that I don't use this chart, but on the days that we are home, it is exceptionally helpful for this Type-A, list-making mama. Plus, Adeline enjoys putting a sticker in each category when we are finished. Isn't it funny how a little sticker can make you feel so accomplished? I also have her use stickers to mark each day on the calendar. We recite the month, the day of the week and practice number recognition. Next to the calendar and activity chart, I also post her memory verse and letter of the week.

If you'd like to use my activity chart, download the file below for free (PDF or Word). Customize it for your family or use it as is, for children of any age. I've discovered that on the days when we use this chart, our learning and play is significantly more fruitful, peaceful, and enjoyable. Happy learning!