Taper Recorder Test
Whenever my kids are in charge, leading or creating something, their attention level and interest is at it's max. For example, every once in a while I let my kids try making their own food creations. This sometimes involves creating a cookie recipe of their own (they always write it down so they can reproduce their "masterpiece" another time), their own sandwiches or popsicles. When these "culinary delights" are completed they eat them down with such adoration and pride....even though they may taste downright AWFUL. I know, because I've had to choke down enough of these creations while putting on my best "mmmm this is good!" face. One thing I have gleaned from that experience and others like it, is that hands-on learning gives kids a sense of pride, ownership and a feeling of empowerment. This encourages me to be on the lookout for any ways to make homeschooling kinesthetic. You will be surprised to find that with some creative thinking, even a mundane weekly spelling test can be turned into fun!
Hands on Spelling Test
Tell your child that they will be giving themselves a spelling test from now on. Have them read the words into a tape recorder. Tell them to say it slowly and to pause between each word. Make sure you give them the freedom to practice with it before they take the real test. When they are ready, they can turn on the tape recorder and start taking it.
Tip!
My kids have spent hours and hours just talking into a tape recorder. They make all sorts of funny interviews, silly sounds and the most amusing songs. I think they love listening to themselves more than making the tape! Be sure to put a couple away for safe keeping. You will be surprised to find how fun it is to listen to those homemade tapes years later.
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