Posts

Gardening + Homeschool

Using your vegetable garden as part of your homeschool lessons can be an engaging and educational experience for your children. Here are some ideas on how to incorporate it into various subjects: 1. Science Plant Biology: Teach about plant life cycles by observing the growth of different vegetables. Discuss photosynthesis, root systems, pollination, and seed dispersal. Soil Science: Explore different types of soil, composting, and the role of earthworms and other organisms in soil health. Weather and Climate: Track weather patterns and discuss how different conditions affect plant growth. You can also talk about the importance of seasons and how they influence gardening. 2. Math Measurement: Have your children measure the height of plants, the size of leaves, or the area of the garden beds. Counting and Sorting: Younger children can count seeds, leaves, or vegetables harvested. Older children can weigh the produce and calculate the yield. Geometry: Use the garden layout to discuss shap...

Getting Started

 Hey there! Welcome to the wonderful world of homeschooling in Maine! I know it can seem a bit overwhelming at first, but don’t worry—I’ve got you covered with the basics. Getting Started: First things first, you’ll need to send in a Notice of Intent when you start homeschooling. Just mail it to your local school superintendent or submit it online within ten days of starting. You will send this letter to the superintendent by September 1st every year to let them know you're continuing to homeschool. You can find this form online at http://www.maine.gov/doe/schools/schoolops/homeinstruction/requirements What to Teach: Maine has some basic subject areas they want us to cover: English, math, science, social studies, physical education, health, and fine arts. There are also a couple of extras—Maine studies for one year (usually in middle school) and some computer proficiency (at least once in grades 7-12). - As for your schedule, you need to do at least 175 days of school each year. Bu...