Homeschool Activities=

Discipline Solutions

When the tempers are hot, the children are restless and/or Mom is tired, the hours of the day can seem very long. The youngster is not really misbehaving. He's just complaining and/or whining and/or nit picking. Yet, it's dismally clear where the situation is headed. Yes, straight downhill...

Sometimes something small, something silly or something unexpected is just what is needed. Tiny little ideas can lift spirits, enrich a dull day, promote kinship, spark creativity, and, indeed, create lasting memories.

Spur-of-the-moment homeschool activities (can be adapted for one child or several):

• A sock fight--Yes, that's right. Have everyone mate the socks, then divide them equally. All take cover in individual areas (behind a chair, table, wall, etc) where they have to stay. In other words, no can invade another's territory or run through the house. Then, let the games begin! No one can help but laugh to see all those white missiles sail through the air...and it expends lots of pent-up energy!

• Sock puppets--Did you find any sock singles when you mated those wily little pieces of apparel? If your house is like mine, there are several, at the very least. The child can make characters by 1)putting one over his hand, 2)closing his fingers into a fist to make the mouth, 3)coloring features on it with markers. Then he can make-up a story or act out one of his favorites.

• Dramatization--Pick a favorite Bible event or fairy tale. Assign parts, then dress-up! Scrounge drawers and closets for scarves, unused hats and ties, guns, baskets, old material, etc. Take a few minutes (or more for older youngsters) for each to think up a few lines, then try to put the story together. As they become more comfortable, the production can be more elaborate.

• Look through old photos--Children love this activity. They love to relive happy moments and hear the accounts that accompany each picture. This provides hours of entertainment.

  Photo album--The child can put together his very own book. Either purchase one -- or he can just use white construction paper. In a pinch, go ahead and just use tape on the back to attach the pictures. (Later, go back and glue the photos properly. Ask at the craft store for the right type.) The youngster can decorate the pages.

  This would be a wonderful gift for grandparents or elderly neighbor.

• Timer finder--Hide your timer. Let the child find it by following the sound.

• Smile contest--Everyone smiles as big as he can. Measure with a ruler to determine the winner.

• Color search--See how many items throughout the house are red...are yellow...are black...this activity consumes lots of time and energy.

At times distraction is the best discipline. Keep these simple, instant homeschool activities in mind for emergencies. They provide opportunities to share family fun and laughter...and brighten any day.

Fast, Fun Arts and Crafts Projects

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