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0 In 2025/ Free stuff/ Parent Tip/ Raising boys/ Things to do in Minnesota

Play Like it’s 1985: Screen-Free Summer Fun

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School’s out… and the screens are calling...

Kids don’t actually need screens to have fun (shocker!). They need space to explore, create, and connect. Whether you’re looking to cut back on screen time or just add more balance to your family’s routine, here are screen-free activities that inspire joy, movement, and imagination.

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1. Have a “What’s in the Box” Challenge

George and Clark: What’s in the Box Challenge
  • Cut holes a in box
  • Choose an item to put inside
  • Allow someone to reach their hand inside the box and “guess” what it is.
  • Take turns finding items to hide, then guessing “What’s in the Box?”

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Want to read about the Egly boys “What’s in the Box” challenge that takes an unexpected turn? Get a copy of Turtle Trouble on Amazon by clicking here. This playful tale celebrates sibling teamwork, imagination, and adventure—perfect for young readers and their families to enjoy together!

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2. Build something

Home Depot

The Home Depot and Lowe’s offer free monthly workshops for kids called Kids Workshops and DIY-U Kids Workshops. These workshops are designed to teach children ages 5-12 about building, crafting, and using tools, fostering creativity and practical skills. The workshops are held on the first Saturday of each month at participating stores, with The Home Depot’s workshops generally running from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Can’t join on Saturday? Home Depot has created take home kits for kids – Go to customer service to ask for one for each of your kids. My 11 year old was able to follow the simple instructions and build a battleship on his own.

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3. Play a Game or Complete a Puzzle

The kids played lots of games
George is 12 but still likes to play
Cousins playing games

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4. Set out art supplies and CREATE!

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Set out Pencils, markers or crayons and blank paper – Set the timer for 15 minutes and encourage everyone to sit and draw. I’m amazed at some of the things they will come up with. If they don’t know what to draw, set a stuffed animal on the table or pull out a favorite book and ask their favorite page!

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5. Make playdoh

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Click here for a recipe. We like to make a batch and then I give my boys ideas things to make: a snake, a snowman, a fidget spinner!

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6. Balloon games

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Blow up balloons and work together to keep them from touching the ground. Or, use a tennis racket outside with balloons.

Here’s a link to 18 different balloon games.

Here’s a link to a balloon pack to add to your cart!

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7. Take a bike ride or go for a walk

Clark on his bike
Clar on a bike

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Get some exercise! Go for a walk, run, bike ride!

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8. Learn a Life Skill

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9. Explore and Play Outside!

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  • Create an obstacle course in your yard. Use cones, chalk, hula hoops, or whatever’s in the garage to build a backyard challenge.
  • Play Soccer, sharks and minnows, kickball, or catch
  • Climb a tree

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Click here for a post I wrote sharing three fun backyard games.

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10. Build a blanket fort

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A classic rainy-day activity—perfect for reading, snacks, and make-believe adventures.

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11. Lemonade stand

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Let kids practice math, creativity, and entrepreneurship with a lemonade stand!

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12. Turn old boxes into games

Clark created a game called “Hit It” – Targets for Nerf Guns
George creating his game called “The Ultimate Maze”

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Create a maze or arcade games out of old boxes.

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13. Build paper airplanes and test them

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See whose airplane flies the farthest or fastest. Bonus points for decorating!

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14. Exercise or have a dance party

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15. Have a picnic

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Take lunch outside for a picnic—fresh air does wonders for moods, and the best part? The crumbs stay outside!

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16. Make puppets and put on a show

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Use socks, paper bags, or spoons. Then perform for the family.

Click here to buy bags

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17. Read a book or write your own

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One of the best screen free activities for kids is, of course, reading – or writing!

Find a book you and your children can enjoy together this summer. My recommendation? The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. My kids were excited to listen to a new chapter each day. When we finished, Luke said, “Can we find another book just like that one?”

Buy blank books and allow kids to write their own stories or journal about their summer!

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18. Sidewalk Chalk Art

George’s artwork
sidewalk chalk
Clark’s artwork

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Turn your driveway into an art gallery, obstacle course, or hopscotch.

Click here to order a 64 pack of chalk!

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19. Have a spa day

Painting nails
Spa Day

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Use items you have at home whether it’s face masks, cucumber slices, or nail polish. This is perfect for a relaxing afternoon or evening around the house.

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20. Let them be bored

bored kids

Call it “NO Tech Day” and let them figure out what to do without electronics. Their creativity will spike when they are forced to figure it out on their own. Plan for unplanned time for your kids and see what they come up with.

Click here to read more about boredom and getting rid of it!

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Want more? Click here for 55 Boredom Busters!

Click here for Would you Rather!

Click here for Minute to Minute Games!

  • Affiliate links in post!
May 23, 2025 By
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0 In 2025/ Peek into our Week/ Raising boys/ Things to do in Minnesota/ Traveling

Life Lately: Full Hearts and Full Calendars

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Spring has been full in every sense of the word—full of travel, sports, special moments with family, and glimpses of God’s goodness in the everyday. From college visits and basketball tournaments to sweet time with my sister and a meaningful Mother’s Day, these past few weeks have reminded me how precious it is to slow down and savor the people and moments that matter most.

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Home Sweet Oklahoma

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A tiny fish that Paul caught
A giant Frog Paul caught
Hiking with my little sisters
Lifelong friends
Time with my Great Uncle

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Dinner with friends

Over Spring Break, we spent a long weekend in Oklahoma and packed it full of goodness. It’s never enough time with family, and saying goodbye is always the hardest part. We soaked up every minute with Nana and Papa, my sisters, stepmom, and a few lifelong friends—time that truly fills the soul. There were so many laughs and memories made.

The boys loved all the classic “boy stuff”—backyard football, fishing, and a stock car race with Papa. One of the highlights was getting to see Nana’s brother, who captivated us with stories of his childhood on St. Thomas Island with Shirley. Tales of swimming with sharks and fishing adventures brought family history to life in the best way.

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Spring Sport in Full Swing

Screenshot

Clark is playing AAU basketball with a fantastic group of boys, Paul is back on the soccer field, and Luke is back on the diamond for another season of baseball.

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Basketball, Buzzer-Beaters, and Big Wins

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A visit from friends
Paul came to cheer on Clark’s team

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Ted took Clark to Iowa for an out-of-town tournament, and they came home as champions! One highlight was having friends who live in Iowa come out to cheer Clark on. Another unforgettable moment was the most exciting game of the weekend: the boys were down by three, and in the final second, Clark’s teammate made a three-point shot to send the game into overtime. With the clock winding down in OT and the score tied again, the team pulled off a Hail Mary—heaving the ball across the court to Clark’s teammate, who caught it between two defenders and nailed the game-winning layup. It was such a fun, high-energy game and a memory they won’t forget!

Watch it here:

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My First Twins Game

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When at baseball…

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Luke’s school reserved a section of seats for all students, so he took me to my very first Twins game. One of the highlights was getting to meet the team’s organist, who’s been playing at every game since 1999! We had a blast cheering on the team—and even better, the Twins beat the Angels!

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Sisters, Sweet Tea, and Speaking at Summit

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My sister and brother-in-law

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I was so honored to be the guest speaker at a ladies’ event at Summit Church in Acworth, GA. My brother-in-law is the pastor there, which makes my sister the pastor’s wife. The event was beautifully done, and the time I spent with my sister made it even more special. We shared delicious meals, sipped sweet tea, watched chick flicks, went to church together on Sunday, and explored the charming town of Woodstock. It was a weekend full of meaning, connection, and joy.

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Exploring NDSU with George

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Architecture Building

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I took George on his first out-of-state college visit to North Dakota State University, about 3.5 hours northwest of us. The campus was beautiful, and the staff gave an outstanding tour. We explored the impressive architecture building and the College of Business, both of which left a good impression. George was happy to learn that the meal plan includes unlimited visits to the dining hall (TBH, I was excited about this as well). He’s also pumped about the chance to attend sports games at this D1 school. NDSU is high on the list of future contenders!

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A VIP Soccer Experience

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Paul, Luke, and Messi!

Ted won four tickets through work to the Minnesota United vs. Miami soccer game. As part of the special event, Paul and Luke had the incredible opportunity to step onto the field for the National Anthem, standing in front of Lionel Messi, one of the greatest soccer players of all time. The excitement didn’t stop there—Paul was thrilled to see Justin Jefferson at the game, the Vikings wide receiver. According to Paul, Jefferson even “dabbed him up.”

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God’s Good Gifts on Mother’s Day

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On Mother’s Day, Clark had two basketball games (I’d love to have a word with whoever made that schedule), so Ted took him to those. But before they left, Ted woke up extra early to go pick up Starbucks coffee and a breakfast sandwich. He even set the dining table out on our back deck so I could relax with my book, coffee in hand, surrounded by morning sunshine. He also bought me beautiful flowers and had the boys write me handwritten cards—the very best kind.

While Clark was at his games, the other three boys and I went to church, then enjoyed a picnic lunch on Lake Minnetonka. We strolled around Wayzata and stopped by the old Railroad Depot, now a charming little museum. That evening, Ted picked up Mexican food (my favorite!), and we ended the day with a family dinner on the deck.

It was a truly wonderful day, and I’m so grateful—for the boys God has blessed me with, and for a husband who went out of his way to make it all so special.

This spring has reminded us of the importance of family, fun, and embracing every moment. We can’t wait to see what summer has in store!

Thanks for reading and please consider subscribing.

May 12, 2025 By
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0 In 2025/ Product Recommendations

Current Favorites: Food, Finds, and Fun

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Whether you’re looking for time-saving kitchen tools, comfy closet staples, or genius kid-friendly finds, I’ve rounded up a handful of items that I truly love (and actually use).

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Veggie Chopper

This is my current FAVORITE thing! It makes takes chopping veggies from annoying to satisfying! It makes dinner prep so much faster and is perfect for making this delicious soup.

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Spread of Goodness

I accidentally found this when I was buying pesto and FELL in LOVE! It’s full of flavor with a little spicy Kick! YUM! Eat with with pasta, fresh bread, or by the spoonful.

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Target’s Peppercorn Steak

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This steak is so good! It needs nothing but a hot skillet with a little butter or oil! So easy and delicious!

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Cleaning spray

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With four boys and endless meals in the kitchen, our countertops get messy – fast! This is the best spray for cleaning our countertops. It smells fresh and doesn’t leave streaks.

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Socks

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Soft, moisture wicking and a really good price! Less than $1 per pair!

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Song

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This is an inspiring song by Mosaic that’s been playing on repeat:

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Silent Basketball

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With four boys who love to play ball in the house, this ball is amazing. It’s a hard, heavy but QUIET basketball! Much less annoying. They loved it so much we now have TWO.

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basketball

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Children’s Book

People often ask me which of my three books is my favorite—and honestly, that’s a tough one! It feels a bit like choosing a favorite child. 😅

  • My first book will always be special because… well, it was the first!
  • My second book holds a special place in my heart because it shares a real-life moment of teamwork and bravery from my own kids.
  • But this third one? I think it might just be my favorite. It’s based on another true story—this one full of laughs, surprises, and just plain fun.
Turtle Trouble

Do you have yours yet? If so, I’d love for you to click here to leave a review. Don’t have it yet – please get a copy for a school, hospital, or child in your life!

Venmo $30 to get all three signed and shipped!

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Thanks for reading! I’d love to hear from you, what is YOUR favorite thing?

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Want more? Here’s a FAVORITE THINGS post from the past.

Click here for a post on my “Favorites from Trader Joes”

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Disclaimer: A few of these items have affiliate links which means if you choose to buy it, I may earn a commission.

April 22, 2025 By
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0 In 2025/ Free stuff/ Minnesota/ Raising boys/ Things to do in Minnesota

14 Free and Family-Friendly Activities in the Twin Cities

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Let’s face it—life is expensive. Between groceries, gas, and that “quick” Target run that somehow cost over $100, spending money on entertainment isn’t always in the budget. But good news! The Twin Cities are packed with amazing things to do that won’t cost you a dime.

From scenic parks to quirky museums, and even places where you can pretend to be cultured for free, here’s your ultimate guide to having fun in and around Minneapolis and St. Paul!

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1. Minnehaha Falls:

Visit this beautiful urban waterfall located in Minnehaha Park. You can hike around the falls, explore trails, and have a picnic.

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2. Como Park Zoo & Conservatory:

Como Zoo and Conservatory

This free zoo and botanical garden in St. Paul is a great place to see animals, explore beautiful gardens, and enjoy family time.

Bonus Tip – There’s a fantastic park across the street. Click here for a peek into our visit.

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3. Lake Harriet Bandshell:

In the summer, enjoy free live music and movies at the Lake Harriet Bandshell in Minneapolis. The area around the lake is also great for walking, biking, and picnicking.

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4. The Chain of Lakes:

chain of lakes

Walk, bike, or paddle around Minneapolis’ Chain of Lakes, including Lake Bde Maka Ska, Lake Harriet, and Lake of the Isles. There are beaches, playgrounds, and plenty of spots to relax.

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5. Minneapolis Sculpture Garden:

Visit this outdoor art park next to the Walker Art Center. It’s home to the famous “Spoonbridge and Cherry” sculpture and offers plenty of space to explore and enjoy.

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6. Walk along the Mississippi River:

stone arch bridge

Walk or bike along the Mississippi Riverfront in downtown Minneapolis or St. Paul. The Stone Arch Bridge, Mill Ruins Park, and the St. Anthony Falls area are particularly scenic.

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7. Go for a Hike:

boardwalk

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8. Minnesota History Center:

The history center provides free admission one afternoon each week. With interactive exhibits and engaging activities for the whole family, I HIGHLY recommend a visit.

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9. Minneapolis Institute of Art:

MIA

Explore a wide variety of art from around the world at this museum. Admission is free every day, though special exhibits may have a fee.

  • Location: 2400 3rd Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55404.
  • Phone Number: (612) 870-3000.
  • Website: new.artsmia.org

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10. Library Hop:

Explore a wide range of libraries throughout the Twin Cities. The Stillwater library is big with a large playarea and patio looking over downtown. Many libraries have free classes, tutoring and experiences for all ages!

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11. Park Hop:

Chutes ladders
Chutes and Ladders Park in Bloomington MN

Explore a wide variety of playgrounds around the Twin Cities. A few favorites:

Bonus tip: Become a Junior Naturalist (click here for info).

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12. Go for a Swim:

Explore a wide variety of public beaches around the Twin Cities.

Two options: Antlers Park in Lakeville – recently updated; and Wayzata Beach!

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13. Play Ball:

Pickleball

There are a variety of free pickleball and tennis courts, baseball fields, batting cages, soccer fields and basketball courts around the Twin Cities.

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14. Explore a Nature Center

Richardson Nature Center

Richardson Nature Center – The visitor center houses interactive exhibits, live critters, and expert naturalists. 8737 East Bush Lake Rd. Bloomington, 753-694-7676, threeriversparks.org

Woodlake Nature Center – The visitor center is full of interactive displays featuring more live creatures! Wood Lake Nature Center, 6710 Lake Shore Drive, Richfield Drive, 612-861-9365, richfieldmn.gov 

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What did I miss? Please leave a comment with free things to do in the Twin Cities! I’d love to know, and so would my readers.

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Click here to read 24 Kid-Friendly Places to Visit in the Twin Cities

24 free

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You may also be interested in:

21 free things to do at Mall of America other than shop

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Minnesota Bucket List

April 3, 2025 By
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0 In 2025/ Memories/ Minnesota/ Raising boys/ Things to do in Minnesota

Mind-Bending Fun at the Museum of Illusions – A Must-Visit at Mall of America!

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When I first suggested a trip to the Museum of Illusions at Mall of America, my teens weren’t exactly thrilled. “A museum?” They weren’t convinced. But the second we stepped inside, everything changed.

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From the moment we walked in, they were completely hooked—calling me over to check things out, snapping photos, and constantly saying, “Whoa! Cool! Mom, look at this!” This isn’t your typical museum where you quietly observe from a distance—it’s an interactive, hands-on funhouse of mind-bending illusions that will have you questioning reality.

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Walk on walls …

…. shrink and grow,

….defy gravity,

… and question reality in mind-tricking rooms. 

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MOI

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Every corner is a new surprise, and trust me—you’ll want (and need) your camera!

✅ Perfect for all ages
✅ Great for families, friends, or date nights
✅ Absolutely worth the visit!

If you’re looking for something different and seriously FUN at MOA, add the Museum of Illusions to your list. Even the skeptics (like my teens) will leave amazed!

📍 Located at Mall of America

Teachers:

As a special thank you for their dedication and hard work, Museum of Illusions at Mall of America is offering teachers free admission during Teacher Appreciation Week and the remainder of the year with a valid school ID. Educators who visit during Teacher Appreciation Week will automatically be entered into a raffle to win a free class field trip to the Museum of Illusions Mall of America.

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Click here to read my post on things to do at Mall of America besides shop

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Click here for 24 FUN and Family Friendly things to do in and around the Twin Cities

Thanks for reading and please consider subscribing!

March 15, 2025 By
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0 In 2025/ History/ Traveling

Exploring Marco Island: What to See, Do & Eat

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Ted and I feel incredibly fortunate to have friends who call Marco Island home and welcomed us for a visit. As the ultimate hosts, they introduced us to the best local dining spots, must-see attractions, and hidden gems. Now, I’m excited to share what I’ve learned so you can experience the beauty and charm of Marco Island for yourself.

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A Brief History of Marco Island

Development began in the 1960s when the Deltona Corporation set out to transform Marco Island into an “affordable” resort destination, offering waterfront homes for as little as $15,700. While some of these original homes still stand today, their price tags have significantly increased, reflecting the island’s growing popularity and desirability.

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Marco Island

An example of the home you could own on Marco for $15,700.

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One of the most distinctive features of Marco Island is its intricate canal system, designed to maximize waterfront property. Today, over 80% of residential properties on the island have direct water access, making it a premier boating and fishing destination.

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Getting to Marco Island

Marco Island is located in Southwest Florida, just south of Naples. The closest airport is Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers, about an hour’s drive away. You can rent a car or call our favorite driver, Marlon, to get to the island (786-612-1375).

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When to Visit

The best time to visit Marco Island is from November to April when temperatures are pleasant and the humidity is low. This is also peak season, so expect higher prices and more crowds. Summer months offer fewer visitors and lower hotel rates, but come with higher heat and humidity.

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Top Things to Do

1. Relax on the Beach

  • Tigertail Beach – A must-visit for its natural beauty, tidal lagoon, and shelling opportunities.
  • South Marco Beach – A quieter, more relaxed beach with soft white sand and clear waters.

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2. Visit the Farmer’s Market

Marco Island hosts an amazing Farmer’s Market every Wednesday morning, November through April.

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3. Water Activities

  • Kayaking or Jet Skis – Rent equipment and explore the mangrove tunnels.
  • Fishing Charters – Join a local guide for deep-sea or backwater fishing.
  • Dolphin & Sunset Cruises – Enjoy a scenic boat ride and watch dolphins play in the water.

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4. Discover History

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Where to Eat

Breakfast:

  • Doreen’s – I recommend sitting outside if the weather is nice. Order the pumpkin pancakes or omelet.
  • Ori’s Bakery – Great coffee, breakfast sandwiches and pastries!

Lunch:

Dinner:

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The Boardroom
Doreen’s

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Where to Stay

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Insider Tips for Visiting Marco Island

  • Arrive early at Tigertail Beach for the best shelling opportunities.
  • Rent a bike to explore the island at a leisurely pace.
  • Book excursions and restaurant reservations in advance during peak season.
  • Pack sunscreen and bug spray, especially if you plan to explore the mangroves.
  • Rent a boat and visit Keywadin Island.
  • Visit Stan’s for happy hour on Sunday.

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Marco Island is a hidden gem that blends relaxation with adventure. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on its beautiful beaches or exploring the local wildlife, you’ll find plenty of reasons to fall in love with this Gulf Coast treasure.

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Click here to read my last post Marco.

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Thinking about an escape to the mountains? Click here to read my Colorado Springs Bucket List!

February 27, 2025 By
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0 In 2025/ Family/ Memories/ Minnesota/ Peek into our Week/ Raising boys

Family Life Lately: Kids, Cold Season, and One Naughty Pup

Well, it’s been a while since I’ve shared a family life update, and what better time to do it than now—while I’m camped out in bed with a cold, trying to avoid spreading my germs to the rest of the house. They say moms don’t get sick days, but today I’m calling in “semi-sick-but-still-managing-life-from-my-pillow” mode. So, with a little extra time and a lot of tissues, here’s what’s been going on in our corner of the world.


The Cowboys

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George won’t stop growing up on me and is a JUNIOR in high school. He’s also taking a college class, working part time, and playing rec basketball.

Clark is busy with 9th grade basketball and spending any extra time with friends (he hopes to get to know every single person in his high school).

Paul is in 7th grade and busy with two different basketball teams and travel soccer, any free moments are spent cheering on his friends at THEIR sporting events.

Luke is keeping busy with wrestling and hanging with new neighbor friends and old neighbor friends.

Boys Weekend

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Vikings Game
Mall of America

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Ted and the boys had an unforgettable weekend together—complete with football, food, and father-son bonding. As an early Christmas gift, Ted took them out for dinner, played games at the Mall of America, and treated them to a hotel stay. The highlight? Sunday’s Vikings football game, which was Paul and George’s first ever! They LOVED it!

Book Launch Party x 2

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Local Party
Lakeville Party

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I’m so thankful to the neighbors and friends who came to our Turtle Trouble book launch parties! We had door prizes, a live reading, a hot chocolate bar, plus a visit from the illustrator. She created a custom coloring sheet, so we hosted a coloring contest for prizes too.

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Christmas Day Recap

On Christmas morning, the boys came downstairs to find just four presents under the tree—two of which were for Ted. Paul immediately asked if there were more gifts coming. I smiled and told him he’d find out soon.

After breakfast, I sent the boys on a scavenger hunt to find their gifts. Once all the presents were found, I had another game ready to decide who got to open the first one. We alternated between games and opening gifts, giving us more time to enjoy each other’s company.

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Christmas Scavenger Hunt

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Candy Cane Game
Reindeer Game

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While the boys weren’t thrilled about the games (or me taking videos), Ted gently reminded them that participating was a gift to me. And though they pretended not to enjoy it, I could tell they did.

Once the games and presents were over, we had lunch, enjoyed the new gifts, and capped the day with ice skating and sledding in the evening.

The rest of Christmas break was low-key, as the flu made its way through the family one by one.

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School Daze

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Lately, I’ve been making the rounds in schools, reading to kids and teaching every grade from K-12. It’s been a blast—though let me tell you, shifting gears from kindergarten chaos to middle school energy keeps me on my toes. Every day is a new adventure!

One highlight? When I was teaching at a middle school recently, I scored an exclusive invite to sit with the cool kids—the middle school boys—at lunch!

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Minneapolis Date

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Ted and I recently managed to escape for a much-needed date—because sometimes you’ve got to remind yourself that you are more than just your kids’ snack supplier and chauffeur. We explored the Minnesota Sculpture Garden, where we tried to interpret what the sculptures were supposed to be: Is it a deep metaphor or just a giant spoon?

We then walked across the bridge to Gai Noi and enjoyed some amazing curry. It was one of those perfect afternoons where we felt like grown-ups again.

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Wrigley’s Goes to Jail

Wrigley is doing great… aside from one minor run-in with the law.

It all started when I let him outside. Normally, he never leaves our yard, but of course, this one time, he decided to explore—I should add that he wasn’t wearing his collar. Thankfully, a kind neighbor one street over, found our adventurous (and overly friendly) dog. Not knowing where he belonged, she kindly escorted him to the local police station.

Apparently, Wrigley’s charm didn’t stop with our family; he sweet-talked the officers into taking his mug shot and posting it online to see if anyone recognized him. When I got a text from our neighbor asking, “Is this Wrigley?” I ran to check outside. No Wrigley. I asked the boys—no one had seen him. Sure enough, the fugitive in question was our Wrigley… chilling at the police station.

The reunion was equal parts embarrassing and sweet. Wrigley wagged his tail and jumped up to give me a hug, and I gave him a lecture he clearly tuned out.

He’s home safe now, keeping my reading spot warm and probably dreaming about his next “adventure.”

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Turtle Trouble Book Love

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Thanks to each of you who have purchased a copy of Turtle Trouble! I appreciate the love and support. It’s not too late to get a copy for a school, hospital, library, or child in your life! Click here to buy one, or send me a message for signed copies.

If you have a copy of the book – would you please leave an Amazon review (by clicking here)! Every review helps promote the book! Thank you in advance.

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And that’s the latest from our little corner of the world—complete with kids, chaos, and one (now) law-abiding goldendoodle. Life is not always be picture-perfect, but it’s full of stories that keep us laughing, learning, and sometimes stopping by the police station.

Thanks for catching up with us! Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to refill my tea, grab a book, and see if Wrigley left me any room in my reading spot.

Until next time—stay well, stay warm, and maybe keep an eye out for any furry escape artists!

January 27, 2025 By
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0 In 2025/ Family/ Motherhood/ Parent Tip

Practical Tips for Parents to Foster Curiosity and Learning

Guest Post from Janice Russell

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Instilling a genuine love for learning in children is a gift that keeps on giving. As parents, the role you play in shaping your child’s educational journey is profound. By fostering an environment that encourages exploration and critical thinking, you can help your child develop a passion for knowledge that transcends the classroom. This involves not just providing resources, but also modeling a commitment to learning in your own life. The journey of education is not a sprint but a marathon, and your involvement can make all the difference in how your child perceives and values learning.

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Inspiring Lifelong Learning by Returning to School

To instill a love of learning in your children, one of the most effective methods is to lead by example. Choosing to further your education demonstrates that learning is a lifelong journey, fostering personal growth while opening doors to new career opportunities. For example, pursuing professional certifications in fields like IT, project management, or teaching can expand your skill set and make you more competitive in your industry. Enrolling in online courses or workshops to master a new language, learn coding, or explore creative fields like photography or graphic design can also enrich your personal and professional life. Whether you’re earning a master’s degree in nursing to enter advanced practice roles, obtaining financial planning credentials to better serve clients, or simply taking classes to develop a hobby into a side business, your dedication to continuous learning not only advances your career but also inspires your children. It shows them the value of perseverance, adaptability, and self-improvement.

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Creating a Study Space at Home

Creating a dedicated study area at home can boost your child’s enthusiasm for learning, even if space is limited. Consider setting up a small, defined area in a quiet corner of the living room, kitchen, or bedroom. Use portable tools like a lap desk, noise-canceling headphones, or a small caddy for supplies to keep the space organized and flexible. Positioning the area near a window for natural light can improve mood and reduce eye strain, making the space more inviting. With a little creativity, you can make any area work, showing your child that learning is always a priority.

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Encouraging Learning Through Play

Incorporating educational toys into your child’s playtime can significantly enhance their cognitive development while keeping learning fun and engaging. Toys such as puzzles, building blocks, or STEM kits encourage problem-solving and critical thinking by challenging children to find solutions and think creatively. These activities promote logical reasoning, spatial awareness, and strategic planning—skills that lay the foundation for future success. By blending play with learning, educational toys not only nurture curiosity and perseverance but also help children build confidence as they overcome challenges and explore new ideas.

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Click here to read Kathryn’s post on the value of PLAY.

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Maintaining a Nurturing Home

Maintaining a nurturing home for your child is crucial in fostering their love for learning. By creating a calm home, you help them manage emotions and focus better, which reduces stress and enhances concentration. This approach supports a positive learning atmosphere and encourages personal growth by teaching self-regulation skills. Implementing a consistent daily routine within this space can further boost your child’s sense of security and understanding of expectations, leading to improved behavior and engagement. 

For more on this, read Kathryn’s post entitled: Don’t just survive motherhood, Thrive in Motherhood.

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Asking Open-Ended Questions

To nurture your child’s innate curiosity, consider the power of asking open-ended questions. For example, instead of asking, “Did you like the book?” try asking, “What did you find most interesting about the story?” Or, instead of “Did you have fun at school today?” ask, “What was the most exciting or challenging part of your day?” These questions invite children to explore and articulate their thoughts freely. This enhances problem-solving skills and boosts confidence in expressing ideas. By engaging in such dialogues, you help your child become more open-minded, enabling them to view the world from different angles and continuously learn. Engaging in these thoughtful conversations strengthens your bond and creates opportunities for meaningful growth.

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Your efforts to cultivate a love of learning in your children can have a lasting impact on their lives. By embracing strategies that encourage curiosity and critical thinking, you lay the groundwork for a future filled with exploration and discovery. Whether through setting a personal example, creating conducive learning environments, or asking the right kinds of questions, your role is pivotal in shaping a lifelong learner. The journey of education is ongoing, and your involvement can inspire a passion for knowledge that endures.

Thanks for reading the guest post by Janice!

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Click here to read tips on how to find more JOY in Motherhood.

January 16, 2025 By
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