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As an educator with more than two decades of experience, I have watched the my students grow from Kindergarteners to High schoolers to College students to raising their own families and I have witnessed the transformative impact of praising effort over intelligence in shaping the mindset and resilience of our young learners. In a world where success is often equated with innate intelligence, it's crucial to recognize the profound influence that our words can have on a child's development. Renowned psychologist Carol Dweck emphasizes the importance of fostering a growth mindset, stating, "It's not that I'm so smart, it's just that I stay with problems longer." This encapsulates the essence of praising effort over fixed intelligence. When we celebrate persistence, determination, and resilience, we empower children to embrace challenges and view mistakes as opportunities for growth. Consider the words of Stanford University's Dr. Jo Boaler , "We now know that the brain is like a muscle; it changes and grows in response to challenge." By praising effort, we encourage children to exercise and strengthen their intellectual muscles, fostering a love for learning that goes beyond mere grades or test scores. One notable example of the power of grit is Thomas Edison, who famously said, "I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work." Edison's relentless pursuit of innovation and his ability to persevere in the face of setbacks are emblematic of the mindset we aim to cultivate in our students. In the classroom, praising effort should be specific and timely. Instead of saying, "You're so smart," try acknowledging their hard work, saying, "I appreciate the time and effort you put into understanding this concept." This reinforces the connection between effort and achievement. Parents and educators, let's remember the story of Michael Jordan, who once remarked, "I've missed more than 9,000 shots in my career. I've lost almost 300 games. Twenty-six times I've been trusted to take the game-winning shot and missed. I've failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed." Jordan's journey reflects the resilience and tenacity that come from valuing effort over immediate success. So, as we guide the next generation, let's be intentional in our praise. Encourage them to embrace challenges, applaud their perseverance, and celebrate the process, not just the outcome. Let's create an environment where mistakes are seen as stepping stones to mastery. In addition to fostering a culture of effort-based praise in our interactions with children, I'm excited to offer a practical tool to support parents and educators in this journey. I've created a free printable, akin to a cheat sheet, featuring these empowering phrases for encouraging effort in children. Whether you're in the classroom, homeschooling, or parenting, this resource serves as a gentle reminder of the power of our words in shaping the mindset and resilience of young learners. You can download it from the FREE Parent & Educator Resources Collection and start incorporating these affirmations into your daily interactions with children today. In closing, I encourage parents and educators alike to reflect on the impact of our words. The power to shape resilient, lifelong learners lies in our ability to praise effort, instilling in children the belief that their potential is not fixed but can grow with dedication and perseverance. Together, let's build a future where every child thrives, not because of innate intelligence but because of the effort they invest in becoming the best versions of themselves. Moreover, if you're interested in delving deeper into strategies for cultivating a growth mindset and promoting resilience in children, I invite you to explore the other resources available on the blog. From articles on fostering grit to practical tips for nurturing a love for learning, there's a wealth of insights waiting to support you on your journey as a parent or educator. Together, let's empower the next generation to thrive, one encouraging word at a time.

Weekly Lesson Plan: The Story of Creation - Genesis 1:1-31 Introduction: To begin the lesson, settle your child or children and show them the Bible. Ask a few questions or allow them to ask a few, depending on their age, before you begin. Read Genesis 1:1-31 together, emphasizing the key points of each day of creation. After reading, again, encourage the children to ask questions and share their thoughts about the story. For children ages 6 years old and over, you may ask them to narrate back. To continue and extend the lesson throughout the week, select one or two of these activities for each lesson focus: Lesson Focus 1: God's Creation The lesson focus of God's Creation is important to teach because it helps students understand and appreciate the beauty and diversity of the natural world. By learning about the intricacies of God's creation, students can develop a sense of wonder and awe, fostering a deeper connection with the environment and a desire to care for it. Additionally, teaching about God's Creation can also help students understand their own place in the world and their responsibility as stewards of the Earth. Read-Aloud: " God Made the World" by Sarah Jean Collins (or any other children's book about creation). Discuss the different things God created each day, such as light, water, plants, animals, and humans. Ask the children to name things they see around them that God has created. Arts and Crafts Activity: Provide coloring sheets depicting scenes from the creation story. Older children can also draw their favorite scenes from the story of creation. Encourage the children to color and decorate them. I have a FREE Days of Creation Coloring Pages printable on my TpT Store . You may want to use it for this lesson. Physical Activity: Play "Simon Says" with actions related to the creation story, such as "Simon says jump like a fish" or "Simon says sway like a tree." Get more Simon Says action ideas, handwriting practice, vocabulary, sequence cards, and more with the Creation Story K-2 Activity Pack on my TpT store . Lesson Focus 2: Taking Care of God's Creation Taking care of God's creation is an important lesson focus because it teaches students about their responsibility as stewards of the Earth. It emphasizes the value of respecting and preserving the environment, as well as the interconnectedness of all living things. By learning about environmental issues and sustainable practices, students can develop a sense of empathy, gratitude, and reverence for the natural world. This lesson focus also aligns with many religious teachings that emphasize the importance of caring for God's creation. Read-Aloud: "T he Earth Book" by Todd Parr (or any other book about taking care of the environment). Discuss the importance of taking care of the earth and all the things God has created. Brainstorm ways the children can help take care of the environment, such as recycling, conserving water, and picking up litter. Extend this lesson for children in Grades 1 and 2 to using my The Earth is My Home Activity Pack on my TpT store . Arts and Crafts Activity: Provide materials for the children to create a nature collage using leaves, flowers, and other natural materials. This is a perfect activity after a nature walk! Physical Activity: Go for a nature walk around the neighborhood or a nearby park. Encourage the children to observe and appreciate the beauty of God's creation. Lesson Focus 3: God's Love and Blessings The lesson focus of God's Love and Blessings is important to teach because it helps individuals understand and appreciate the unconditional love and blessings that God bestows upon them. By learning about God's love and blessings, individuals can develop a deeper relationship with God and experience a sense of gratitude and joy in their lives. Additionally, understanding God's love and blessings can provide comfort and strength during challenging times, reminding individuals that they are not alone and that God is always there for them. Read-Aloud: " God Gave Us Love" by Lisa Tawn Bergren (or any other book about God's love). Discuss how God's love is shown through His creation and how He blesses us with all the things we need. Talk about ways the children can show love and kindness to others, just as God has shown to us. Arts and Crafts Activity: Provide materials for the children to make "God's Love" cards for someone they care about. They can draw pictures or write kind messages inside. Physical Activity: Play a game of "Duck, Duck, Goose" but change it to "God, God, Bless!" Encourage the children to say a blessing or kind words to the person they tap. At the end of the week, cap off the lesson with food and talk about the best parts of the lesson during your afternoon tea. Recipe: Fruit Salad Ingredients: Assorted fruits like apples, bananas, grapes, and berries. Instructions: Help the children wash and cut the fruits into small pieces. Mix all the fruits together in a large bowl. Serve the fruit salad as a healthy and delicious snack, reminding the children that God created these fruits for us to enjoy. Note: Adjust the activities and materials according to the age and abilities of the children in your class. My 'God Made The World Playlist' on Spotify: Find more resources here: Make a creation story paper bag book for toddlers

These four saints for children are role models to look up to and seek inspiration from. Their stories and examples can encourage children to live virtuous lives, grow in their faith, and make a positive impact on the world around them. Saint Francis of Assisi Feast Day: October 4 Patronage: animals, ecology, peace, and the environment How to get to know him more: 1. Read children's books about Saint Francis of Assisi, such as "The Song of Francis" by Tomie dePaola. 2. Celebrate his feast day by organizing a nature walk or creating bird feeders with your children. 3. Teach children about his love for animals and the importance of caring for God's creation. 4. Pray for his intercession for kindness and compassion towards all living creatures. Saint Therese of Lisieux Feast Day: October 1 Patronage: missions, florists, and the sick How to get to know her more: 1. Read children's books about Saint Therese of Lisieux, such as "God's Little Flower" by Becky Arganbright. 2. Celebrate her feast day by planting flowers or visiting a local nursing home to bring joy to the elderly. 3. Encourage children to practice acts of kindness and love in their daily lives, just like Saint Therese did. 4. Ask for her intercession for courage and guidance in following God's will. Saint Nicholas Feast Day: December 6 Patronage: children, sailors, and pawnbrokers How to get to know him more: 1. Read children's books about Saint Nicholas, such as "Saint Nicholas: The Real Story of the Christmas Legend" by Julie Stiegemeyer. 2. Celebrate his feast day by placing shoes or stockings out for Saint Nicholas to fill with small treats or gifts. 3. Teach children about his generosity and encourage them to perform acts of kindness for others. 4. Pray for his intercession for protection and blessings upon children. Saint Kateri Tekakwitha Feast Day: July 14 Patronage: ecology, environment, and Native Americans How to get to know her more: 1. Read children's books about Saint Kateri Tekakwitha, such as "Kateri Tekakwitha: Mohawk Maiden" by Evelyn Brown. 2. Celebrate her feast day by learning about Native American culture and traditions. 3. Teach children about her strong faith and resilience in the face of adversity. 4. Ask for her intercession for strength and courage in living out their Catholic faith. Do you have any other go-to saints for children? Who are they? Tell me about them in the comments. Find more resources on the Saints such as coloring pages and how to celebrate their feasts at home here: Gift your children a peg doll patron saint!

These four inspiring saints for teens, offering guidance and inspiration in their lives. Their stories and teachings provide valuable lessons on faith, courage, and compassion, making them ideal figures for teenagers to look up to. By learning from their examples, teenagers can find strength and guidance in their own journeys of faith and personal growth. Saint Maria Goretti Feast Day: July 6 Patronage: youth, young women, purity, and forgiveness How to get to know her more: 1. Read about her life and martyrdom on catholic.org and franciscanmedia.org. 2. Celebrate her feast day by attending a Mass in her honor or organizing a purity retreat for teens. 3. Learn about the virtue of chastity and the importance of forgiveness through her example. 4. Pray for her intercession for purity and strength in facing challenges. Saint John Bosco Feast Day: January 31 Patronage: students, apprentices, young people, and juvenile delinquents How to get to know him more: 1. Explore the life and teachings of Saint John Bosco on s alesianmissions.org and catholicculture.org . 2. Celebrate his feast day by organizing a youth event or participating in activities that promote education and mentorship. 3. Learn about his educational methods and incorporate them into your own studies and interactions with others. 4. Seek his intercession for guidance in making good choices and staying on the right path. Saint Therese of Lisieux Feast Day: October 1 Patronage: missions, florists, and the sick How to get to know her more: 1. Read her autobiography, "Story of a Soul," to learn about her "Little Way" and her deep love for God. 2. Celebrate her feast day by visiting a local nursing home or hospital to bring joy and comfort to the sick. 3. Embrace her spirituality of doing small acts of love and kindness in your daily life. 4. Ask for her intercession for strength in times of suffering and for guidance in discerning your vocation. Saint Maximilian Kolbe Feast Day: August 14 Patronage: drug addicts, prisoners, families, and journalists How to get to know him more: 1. Discover the heroic life of Saint Maximilian Kolbe, who sacrificed his life in Auschwitz to save a fellow prisoner, on franciscanmedia.org and catholic.org . 2. Celebrate his feast day by organizing a service project or volunteering at a local shelter or prison ministry. 3. Learn about his dedication to spreading the Gospel through media and consider how you can use your talents to evangelize. 4. Pray for his intercession for courage and compassion in standing up for what is right. Do you have any other go-to saints for teenagers? Who are they? Tell me about them in the comments.

Motherhood and marriage are beautiful yet challenging vocations. As Catholic wives and moms, we can look to holy women who lived lives of prayer, perseverance, and selfless love. Here are four inspiring saints for wives and moms, along with the ultimate role model, the Blessed Virgin Mary, whom every wife and mother can turn to for intercession, guidance, and inspiration in their vocation. These saints for wives and moms exemplify virtues such as faith, patience, sacrificial love, and unwavering trust in God, making them powerful role models for women striving for holiness in marriage and motherhood. Our Lady of Guadalupe by @weenacontrerasart The Blessed Virgin Mary – The Ultimate Role Model for Wives and Moms While the Blessed Virgin Mary is not officially canonized as a saint, she is the most powerful intercessor for all mothers and wives. Feast Days: Various Marian feast days throughout the year. See the full list here . Patronage: Mothers, childbirth, all humanity Ways to Grow Closer to Mary: ✅ Consecrate yourself to Mary  – Try the 33-Day Marian Consecration  using 33 Days to Morning Glory  by Fr. Donald H. Calloway. ✅ Celebrate Marian feast days  – Find the full list and traditions at EWTN  and Catholic Tradition . ✅ Gift a Marian peg saint doll  – A meaningful Mother’s Day or birthday present. ✅ Pray the Rosary as a family  – One of the greatest ways to honor Our Lady and invite peace into your home. Saint Clare of Assisi Saint Clare of Assisi – Patron Saint of Homemakers Feast Day:  August 11 Patronage:  Laundry, embroiderers, needleworkers, eye disease, good weather, telephones, telegraphs, television Ways to Grow Closer to Saint Clare: ✅ Read about her life  – Learn more at Franciscan Media  and Catholic News Agency (CNA) . ✅ Celebrate her feast day  – Find traditions at Catholic Culture  and Everything Is Grace . ✅ Seek her intercession  – Pray her novena  and ask for her help in homemaking and daily responsibilities. Saint Gianna Bretta Molla Saint Gianna Beretta Molla – Patron Saint of Mothers and Physicians Feast Day:  April 28 Patronage:  Mothers, physicians, unborn children Ways to Grow Closer to Saint Gianna: ✅ Read about her life  – Visit Saint Gianna’s official website  and Vatican News . ✅ Celebrate her feast day  – Get celebration ideas at Catholic Culture . ✅ Pray for her intercession  – Especially for pregnant mothers  and those struggling with motherhood. Add her name to the Litany of Saints  during family prayer time. Saint Monica of Hippo Saint Monica – Patron Saint of Wives and Mothers in Difficult Situations Feast Day:  August 27 Patronage:  Wives, mothers, difficult marriages, alcoholics, conversion Ways to Grow Closer to Saint Monica: ✅ Read about her life  – Visit Franciscan Media  and Church Pop . ✅ Celebrate her feast day  – Find traditions and recipes at Equipping Catholic Families . ✅ Pray for her intercession  – Add Saint Monica’s name to your daily prayers and novenas , especially for struggling marriages and wayward children. Saints for Wives and Moms Who Are Your Go-To Saints for Wives and Moms? Every Catholic wife and mother can find inspiration and guidance in the saints. Whether you're looking for strength in motherhood, patience in marriage, or help balancing faith and family life, there’s a holy woman ready to intercede for you. 💬 Do you have a favorite saint? Share their story in the comments! Let’s build a community of faith-filled women supporting one another. 🔗 Want more faith-based resources?  Check out: ✅ Saints for the Whole Family  – Saints for husbands, children, and young adults ✅ Catholic Saints  – Learn about their lives and feast days ✅ Liturgical Living  – Bringing the saints into your home ✅ Saints Coloring Pages  – Fun faith-based activities for kids

Every Christian is called to live a life of holiness and be considered a saint. As Pope Saint John Paul II encouraged, “ Do not be afraid to be saints. Follow Jesus Christ who is the Did you know that every Christian is called to be a saint? As Pope Saint John Paul II once said: “Do not be afraid to be saints. Follow Jesus Christ who is the source of freedom and light. Be open to the Lord so that He may lighten all your ways.” The saints—whether officially canonized or not—are real-life role models who lived virtuous lives, sacrificed for others, and walked the path of holiness. As parents, teachers, and guardians, we have the responsibility to introduce these inspiring figures to our children and encourage devotion within our families. Let’s explore saints for the whole family and discover how we can incorporate their lives into our daily faith journey. Why Should Families Learn About the Saints? Saints are living examples of holiness, humility, and love for God. By introducing their stories to our children, we provide them with faith-filled heroes to look up to—guiding them toward a life of prayer, virtue, and service to others. 📖 As Pope Saint Clement I reminds us: “Follow the saints because those who follow them will become saints.” But how can we, as modern parents, inspire the younger generation to learn about and emulate the saints? Simple! We read their stories, celebrate their feast days, and foster devotion within our homes. If we don’t introduce our children to Christ and the saints, the world will teach them not to follow Him. Let’s look at saints for every member of the family and how we can grow in holiness together. Read the lives of the Saints to your children Saints for Every Member of the Family Each member of the family can find a saint whose life resonates with their vocation and stage in life. Click the links below to explore saints for the whole family: 🔹 Saints for Husbands and Dads  – Role models of faith and leadership in family life. 🔹 Saints for Wives and Moms   – Holy women who embodied love, sacrifice, and devotion. 🔹 Saints for Children   – Young saints who inspire purity, kindness, and courage. 🔹 Saints for Teens  – Saints who faced challenges and temptations, yet remained faithful. 🔹 Saints for Young Adults   – Guides for those navigating their faith in adulthood. 📖 Want to dive deeper?  Explore my full collection of resources: ✅ Catholic Saints    – Learn about their lives and feast days. ✅ Liturgical Living   – Celebrate the saints in your home. ✅ Saints Coloring Pages   – Fun and faith-filled activities for kids. How to Introduce Saints to Your Family Wondering how to bring saints into your daily family life ? Here are some practical ways  to inspire devotion: 📖 Read Stories of the Saints Together Reading saint biographies, picture books, or short stories  can make their lives relatable to children and adults alike. ✅ For young children:  Try illustrated books with simple saint stories. ✅ For teens & adults:  Read deeper reflections on their virtues and struggles. 🗓 Celebrate Feast Days as a Family Each saint has a feast day —a great opportunity to honor their legacy through prayers, activities, and meals inspired by their culture. 🔹 Check out Catholic Culture  for feast day traditions. 🙏 Pray with the Saints Incorporate daily prayers, novenas, or litanies  dedicated to specific saints into your family’s prayer time. 💡 Example:  During morning or bedtime prayers, ask for the intercession of your family’s patron saints. 🎨 Use Hands-On Activities for Kids Make learning about the saints engaging with coloring pages, crafts, and storytelling. ✨ Download Saints Coloring Pages  for fun Catholic activities! Why Saints Matter in Today’s World In a culture where celebrities and influencers often shape our children’s aspirations, we must introduce them to real heroes of faith . Saints faced trials, made mistakes, and still pursued holiness. By sharing their stories, we remind our families that sainthood is possible for all of us —no matter where we are in life. 💬 Do you or your family have a special devotion to a saint?  Share in the comments below! Learn more about the saints from my other resources: Do you or your family have a special devotion to a particular saint? Share their stories in the comments below!

Husbands and fathers play a vital role in their families, leading with love, strength, and faith. But being a good dad and husband isn't always easy. Thankfully, the Church provides incredible saints for husbands and dads —men who exemplified holiness in their family life. Below are four inspiring saints every Catholic father should know and seek intercession from. Why Husbands and Dads Need Strong Catholic Saints Fatherhood and marriage require patience, love, and spiritual guidance. Saints for husbands and dads  provide role models  of faith, work ethic, and devotion to family. By learning about them, praying for their intercession, and celebrating their feast days, Catholic fathers can grow in holiness. Saint Joseph, husband of Mary Saint Joseph, Husband of Mary Feast Day:  March 19 Patronage:  Universal Church, husbands, fathers, workers, carpenters, unborn children, and a happy death How to Honor Saint Joseph as a Dad: ✅ Consecrate yourself to St. Joseph  – Use Consecration to Saint Joseph  by Fr. Donald H. Calloway. ✅ Celebrate his feast days  – March 19 (St. Joseph’s Day) and May 1 (Feast of St. Joseph the Worker). Get ideas from Catholic Culture . ✅ Gift Dad a St. Joseph peg doll  – Perfect for Father’s Day or birthdays. ✅ Incorporate St. Joseph into family prayer  – Include his prayers and novenas. Learn more about St. Joseph: 🔗 Official Year of St. Joseph Website Saint Isidore, The Farmer Saint Isidore the Farmer Feast Day:  May 15 Patronage:  Madrid, Spain, farmers, rural communities How to Honor Saint Isidore: ✅ Read about his life  – Visit Franciscan Media  and My Catholic Life . ✅ Celebrate his feast day  – Find family-friendly traditions at Catholic Culture . ✅ Pray to St. Isidore  – Add his name to your family’s daily prayers, especially if you have a connection to farming or rural life. Saint Louis Martin Saint Louis Martin Feast Day:  July 12 (Celebrated with St. Zélie Guérin) Patronage:  Illness, mental illness, marriage, parenting, widowers, and the domestic church How to Honor Saint Louis Martin as a Husband and Dad: ✅ Read about him and St. Zélie  – Visit NC Register  and Franciscan Media . ✅ Celebrate his feast day  – Ideas for at-home celebrations at Catholic Culture . ✅ Ask for his intercession  – Pray for his help in times of illness or family struggles. Add his name to your Litany of Saints  during family prayer time. Saint Jerome Emiliani Saint Jerome Emiliani Feast Day:  February 8 Patronage:  Orphans and abandoned children How to Honor Saint Jerome Emiliani: ✅ Read about his life  – Visit My Catholic Life  and Catholic Online . ✅ Celebrate his feast day  – Find activities and recipes at Saints Feast Family . ✅ Pray for abandoned children  – Include prayers for orphans and at-risk youth in your family devotions. Saints for husbands and dads Which Saints Inspire You? Are there other saints for husbands and dads  who have touched your life? Share your thoughts and testimonies in the comments below! Looking for a Meaningful Gift? 🎁 Gift your husband or father a Peg Doll of His Patron Saint  – a thoughtful way to encourage devotion! 📩 Stay Connected!  Sign up for my newsletter  for more faith-based family resources. Gift Dad with his patron Saint Peg Doll!

Hey there fellow parents! If you're anything like me, you know the struggle of trying to keep a curious and active young mind engaged during Mass. With a wiggly 2 to 6-year-old in tow, finding ways to making mass meaningful for children can be quite the challenge. But fear not, I've been there and I'm here to share some practical strategies that have worked wonders for me and my little ball of energy. 1. Early Bird Gets the Pew: Arrive a little early to secure a spot where your child can see and feel part of the action. Being close to the altar can captivate their attention and make them feel like an active participant. 2. Pre-Mass Prep Talks: Just like you'd prepare your child for a playdate, prep them for Mass. Talk about the significance of going to church, even if it's in simple terms. Mention that it's a time to be quiet, listen, and show respect. 3. Kid-Friendly Liturgical Accessories: Let your child pick a special book or a quiet toy to bring along. A soft toy that doesn't squeak or make loud noises works wonders. It's a great way to keep their hands occupied and their minds engaged. 4. Whispered Explanations: Throughout the Mass, offer gentle whispers of explanation about what's happening. Share the names of different parts of the church, point out the priest and choir, and highlight moments like the Eucharist. 5. Interactive Prayers: During prayers, involve your child in a whisper by saying simple prayers together. "Thank you for our family," "Please help those in need," and "We love you, Jesus" are easy ways to connect their little hearts to the moment. 6. Sing and Sway: Children love music! Encourage your child to join in the hymns. Hold their hands and sway to the rhythm, making the experience more interactive and enjoyable. 7. Familiarize Your Child: Before attending Mass, use resources like the free printable Making Mass Meaningful activity pack to familiarize your child with what they will see and expect. This pack includes coloring pages, mazes, and other fun activities that teach about the different parts of the Mass. Consider purchasing the full pack for even more engaging activities. Get the FREE Printable Making Mass Meaningful pack here: Here's a peek at the full Making Mass Meaningful pack: Get the full Making Mass meaningful pack here: Now, let's talk about what NOT to do: Don't Force Silence: Let's face it, expecting complete silence from a young child is unrealistic. Instead of shushing them constantly, embrace their questions and soft chatter with grace. Avoid Over-Explaining: Keep explanations short and sweet. Young minds have a short attention span, so avoid diving into a lengthy theological discourse. Skip the Snacks: While a quiet snack may seem like a lifesaver, it can be distracting to others and takes away from the sacred atmosphere. Dear parents, I know it can be challenging, but remember that you're not alone. The early years are a wonderful time to instill a sense of spirituality in your child. By incorporating these easy strategies into your Mass routine, you're sowing the seeds for a lifelong connection to faith. So, continue bringing your little ones to Mass. Your dedication might result in some fidgeting and wiggling, but it will also create lasting memories and a strong foundation of faith. Together, let's make Mass not just a routine, but a beautiful experience for both you and your child. Blessings on your journey of faith and parenting! Subscribe to any of our subscription plans to get all our resources, printables, lessons and many more for free (even the ones you see on my Tpt store).

Lent can be a rich and engaging experience for children when we provide them with meaningful activities that make faith come alive. Whether through crafts, prayers, or small daily actions, the 40 days of Lent offer plenty of opportunities for kids to grow in faith. Here are 4 Lent activities for kids you might want to try. 1. Daily Acts of Kindness Teaching kids to serve others is one of the best ways to live out Lent. Using the Kindness Quest: 40 Daily Kindness Challenge Cards , as one of your primary Lent activities, children can pick a small act of kindness each day—helping a sibling, writing a thank-you note, or donating a toy. These small but meaningful actions help reinforce the message of love and generosity. 2. Lenten Coloring and Activity Pages Younger children often learn best through hands-on activities. The Everything is Grace Family Lent Pack  is filled with fun printables, including coloring pages, word searches, and matching games, helping kids understand the themes of Lent in an interactive way. A complete Lent activity pack for younger kids. 3. Learn and Write Prayers Encourage kids to deepen their prayer life by practicing familiar prayers or writing their own. The Basic Catholic Prayers Copywork Sheets  are a great way to help children memorize prayers while also working on handwriting skills. 4. Create a Lenten Calendar A simple countdown calendar can help kids visualize the journey through Lent. We use a printed version from Faithful Steps: A Complete Lenten Journey for Families  to mark our progress and discuss the meaning of each day. What are your favorite Lenten activities for kids? Share them in the comments below!

As a seasoned preschool teacher and devoted early years educator, I've had the privilege of witnessing the incredible impact of the Montessori philosophy and method on young minds. The Montessori approach is more than just an educational model; it's a way of life that cultivates a child's innate curiosity, independence, and love for learning. Before your child enters preschool or kindergarten, parents can help their child get ready for the bigger world ahead. In this blog post, I'll share valuable insights and practical tips on how to incorporate Montessori principles into your child's early education journey, using simple and budget-friendly materials. So, let's dive in! Montessori-Inspired Tips for School Readiness: Fostering Independence and Love for Learning 1. Embrace the Prepared Environment: Create a dedicated space for your child with low shelves and accessible storage for their toys and materials. This encourages independence and order. Show your child how to put things back in their designated places and watch them take pride in maintaining their space. Extra teacher tip: Take photos of the toys or materials that you will put on the shelves, print them out and laminate them then stick them to the place where you want the toy returned. This will help your child remember where their toys or things are kept. Low shelves 2. Focus on Practical Life Skills: Involve your child in everyday tasks to develop their fine motor skills and independence. Teach them how to pour water into a cup, button their clothes, or arrange flowers in a vase. Start with simple tasks and gradually increase the complexity as they master each skill. Extra teacher tip: Finding it too messy to allow your toddler to pour water into a cup? Take the activity outdoors! Use a small, easy to handle pitcher with a spout. Tatay (Daddy) made water wall 3. Sensory Exploration: Encourage sensory play by filling a bowl with rice or pasta. Provide measuring cups, funnels, and spoons for your child to explore and experiment with. This not only enhances their sensory development but also promotes language skills as they describe the textures and shapes they encounter. Extra teacher tip: Again, take it outdoors! Seeds, soil, leaves, sand, pebbles, are some of nature's gifts to young children. Them model describing things to them; 'The soil feels cool;' 'The leaf is big because it cannot fit in my hand;' or This tree trunk is a darker brown that this one' 4. Language Enrichment: Create a language-rich environment by labeling objects around the house. Read books aloud and engage in conversations that promote active listening and communication. Use picture cards with simple words to enhance vocabulary and encourage your child to identify and name objects. Extra teacher tip: leave books all around the house so your children can just pick up a book where ever and whenever. Don't just limit them to children's books, invest in travel books, atlases, or books about science, geography or history. Invest in some good quality books and lay them on the coffee table. Your children will pick them up and open them eventually 5. Numeracy Through Play: Introduce basic math concepts through play. Use buttons, beads, or small toys for counting and sorting activities. Create opportunities for your child to explore concepts like quantity, size, and patterns by asking questions and encouraging them to manipulate the objects. Extra teacher tip: collect bottle caps, seashells or pebbles and place them in a container with a lid. You and your child can use these for counting, one to one correspondence or to learn other math concepts like 'many' or 'few' 6. Nature Connection: Take nature walks with your child and observe insects or collect leaves and rocks. Encourage them to explore the natural world, fostering a sense of wonder and respect for their environment. Discuss what they see and ask open-ended questions to spark their curiosity. Extra teacher tip: take zip lock bags along with you on your nature walks to put everything your child picks up or might be interesting. Make sure they don't sting! 7. Artistic Expression: Provide open-ended art materials like crayons, colored pencils, and plain paper. Allow your child to express themselves creatively without any specific instructions. Encourage them to experiment with different colors and textures, and display their masterpieces proudly. Extra teacher tip: Paint not just on paper, but on anything your child may be interested in painting. Painting on an empty seed pod we found during our Nature walks. 8. Practical Materials: You don't need elaborate toys to enhance learning. Use recycled containers, buttons, wooden blocks, and fabrics to create DIY materials for exploration. For example, you can turn an empty tissue box into a shape-sorting game or use different fabrics to create a sensory touch board. Let your creativity flow! Extra teacher tip: I know not all of us are creative and crafty, so why don't we do an exchange of home made materials, cooked home recipes, or even toys in our own community. One mama (or papa) can make 2 sets of lacing cards while the other mama (or papa) can cook a kid friendly meal. Incorporating Montessori principles into your child's early education journey is a gift that keeps on giving. By focusing on practical life skills, sensory exploration, language enrichment, numeracy through play, nature connection, and artistic expression, you're setting the foundation for a lifelong love of learning. Remember, it's not about the fancy equipment, but the meaningful interactions and experiences that shape your child's growth. Embrace the journey and watch your little one blossom into a confident, curious, and capable individual. If you found these tips helpful, I invite you to sign up and subscribe for more valuable resources and insights on nurturing young minds. Together, let's create a bright future for our children!

Here's a week's amount of activities for My Family KG Homeschool Lessons: Morning Basket: Show and tell with a special item each day. Read A louds: Read books about family. "The Family Book" by Todd Parr "All Kinds of Families" by Mary Ann Hoberman "Who's in My Family?: All About Our Families" by Robie H. Harris "Me and My Family Tree" by Joan Sweeney "Love Makes a Family" by Sophie Beer "Home" by Carson Ellis Arts and Crafts: Create a family tree and self-portraits. Music and Movement: Dance to songs about family. Manipulatives: Count and sort family-themed objects. Science: Observe and discuss the shapes and colors of clouds. Introduce the 4 kinds of clouds using this poem: "Cloud Quartet" In the big, blue sky up high, Four types of clouds float by. Let's meet them all, come on, let's go, As through the skies, they gracefully flow. Cirrus clouds so high and thin, Like wispy feathers, they softly spin. Made of ice, in shapes so fine, They paint the sky with a delicate line. Cumulus clouds, puffy and round, Look like cotton balls, near the ground. They're fluffy and white, a joyful sight, Floating in the daytime's warm sunlight. Stratus clouds, low and gray, Cover the sky on a gloomy day. Like a blanket, they gently spread, Bringing drizzly rain as they overhead. Nimbus clouds bring the rain, Pouring down like a watery train. Dark and heavy, in the afternoon, They water the earth, like a monsoon. So next time you look up and see, Clouds dancing in the sky so free, Remember our friends, the cloud four, With different stories, they explore galore! Cloud Craft: Have the kids create their own clouds using cotton balls. You can use this activity to reinforce the different cloud types. For example, make a "cumulus cloud" by gluing cotton balls together in a fluffy, puffy shape. Extend the lesson using my All About Clouds Activity Pack and a Mini Lesson about clouds Phonics: Introduce letter “T” and "P" its sound. Play a game of naming objects that begin with /s/ and /a/. Go on a scavenger hunt to find things that begin with /t/ and /p/. You may use these coloring pages: Numeracy: Count to 10 using fingers and objects. Number Line Hop Materials Needed: Large sheets of paper, markers, and small toys or objects. How to Play: Create a number line on the floor or a wall using large sheets of paper and markers. Write numbers 1 to 10, spaced apart. Place small toys or objects on different numbers along the number line. Call out a number, and have the child hop or jump to that number on the number line. When they reach the number, they should pick up the object placed there. Repeat the game with different numbers. Skills Developed: Number Line Hop helps children with number recognition, counting, and gross motor skills as they move and hop to the correct number. Quiet Time: Listen to soothing music or an audiobook.

Here's a week's amount of activities for All About Me KG Homeschool Lessons: Morning Basket: Show and tell with a special item each day. One idea for a show and tell activity is to have your kindergartener bring in a favorite plush toy. It's a great way for them to connect with their emotions and express themselves. Another idea is to have them bring in a family photo that holds a special place in their heart. They can talk about why it's important to them and share the emotions it brings up. It's such a heartwarming activity that helps them understand the value of family and relationships. Another idea is to ask your kindergartener to bring in a self-portrait they've drawn or painted. It's a fantastic opportunity for them to express themselves through art and explore their emotions. They can explain their artwork, talk about the colors they chose, and share the emotions they were feeling while creating it. These activities are not only super fun, but they also help your kindergartener develop their artistic skills, self-awareness, and emotional intelligence. It's a win-win! So why join in and take turns showing and telling. Include your older children and have family bonding moments at Morning Basket. Read Alouds: Read books about feelings and family. "The Way I Feel" by Janan Cain "When Sophie Gets Angry - Really, Really Angry" by Molly Bang "The Color Monster: A Pop-Up Book of Feelings" by Anna Llenas "My Many Colored Days" by Dr. Seuss "Glad Monster, Sad Monster" by Ed Emberley and Anne Miranda "The Feelings Book" by Todd Parr (still relevant for this age group) "Today I Feel Silly: And Other Moods That Make My Day" by Jamie Lee Curtis (still relevant for this age group) "The Pigeon Has Feelings, Too!" by Mo Willems "The Way I Act" by Steve Metzger "The Feelings Song" by Josh Selig and Christopher Moroney Arts and Crafts: Trace hands and Draw self-portraits. Hand Tracing Activity Parts of The Face Pasting Activity Music and Movement: Dance to songs about emotions. Manipulatives: Count and sort emoticons. Use these printables to count and sort emotions. Science: Observe and discuss the weather. Then talk about how the weather makes you feel. Draw happy suns and clouds or sad rain clouds and angry lightning to represent some emotions. Phonics: Introduce letter “S” and "A" and its sound. Play a game of naming objects that begin with /s/ and /a/. Go on a scavenger hunt to find things that begin with /s/ and /a/. You may use these coloring pages: Numeracy: Count to 10 using fingers and objects. Play a game of 'How Many Fingers Am I Holding Up?' Let your little one touch and count your fingers. Then let him/ her have a go too. Finger isolation will still be a challenge for some kindergarteners. So lend them yours while you play the game. Or you can trace your hands on a sheet of construction paper and paste them on another - different colored paper. Paste only the palms part and leave the fingers part lose so you can fold them up while counting. Quiet Time: Listen to soothing music or an audiobook.