You can feel it in the air. Spring is almost here, and that means St. Patrick's Day is right around the corner. More than just about shamrocks, St. Patrick's Day is an excellent time to use fun activities to teach or practice academic skills at home. With spring fever about to break, here are some fun St. Patrick's Day activities you can do with your children!
Science (Elementary, Middle, and High School)
Go green and plant seedlings from scratch. Pick plant varieties you can transplant outside when the weather gets warmer. Research what vegetables, flowers, and herbs you can start indoors. Tomatoes, peas, and beans are all great picks. Make a soil mix and get a planting tray (you can also use milk and yogurt cartons). You can even go all out and create a homemade indoor greenhouse. Don't forget to label the seeds, and if necessary, transplant them to a larger pot before moving outdoors.
History (Middle and High School)
This St. Patrick's Day, you can certainly study Irish history whether you bleed green or not; however, since most families' lineage contains many different nationalities, why not study your own family's heritage? Research the history of the people, the origin country, and how your family's ancestors came to America. A history activity like this is more personal and applicable to your student, so pull out that family tree and get started.
Math (Elementary and Middle School)
Make math fun with a St. Patrick's Day recipe. No, you don't have to do corned beef and cabbage either. Try some Irish soda bread or beef stew instead. To get your student involved, practice math by sticking to a budget at the grocery store or changing the measurements. For example, double the recipe or cut it in half. After you're finished, you can enjoy a good meal.
English/Language Arts (Middle and High School)
Have your student be the main character in a fiction story set in a particular time period and place in history. This could be in Ireland during the Middle Ages, in California during the Gold Rush, or in the space shuttle during the moon landing. Your student could even imagine what the future will be like. Have fun with writing and examine the difference the first person point of view makes in a story.
What is the last educational activity you did at home with your student just for fun?