Author Archives: Abby Parnell

Abby graduated from Bridgeway in 2014 and was one of the first students to participate in our dual enrollment program through DeSales University. She is currently studying to be a physician's assistant at Valparaiso University. Her hobbies include playing instruments, reading, and physical fitness.
Creative Homeschooling Ideas for All Ages

When fall rolls around and the school year is in full swing, it can be difficult to find the time to be creative with homeschooling! While I was growing up, my mom used the summer months for fun educational activities that brought out creative, fun, and — sometimes — the competitive side of our family. We experienced field days, bike trips, creative writing activities, and so much more. Creative homeschooling isn’t hard, but it does take — you guessed it — creativity! Here are some of my favorite creative homeschool activities for all ages.

Creative writing

I have vivid memories of storytelling with my mom. I remember sitting next to her at the computer while she told crazy stories I would then type up. When I was done, she would print out the stories and let me draw pictures to illustrate them. This activity not only helped me be creative, it also taught me basic writing skills! So, if you have a strongly verbal student, try this activity! If they struggle with coming up with an idea, Google “writing prompts” to help them get started!

Engineer a toothpick bridge.

During a physics class in college, I had to work with one other person to create a bridge from toothpicks. We competed with other students in the class to see whose bridge could hold the most weight. In theory, it seemed like a relatively easy task, but creating a sturdy bridge proved harder than I thought. Start your child’s study of physics and engineering now by following along with this toothpick bridge YouTube video!

Create your own secret code.

When I was growing up, I was very much into secret messages, spy gear, and puzzles. One day, my cousin and I worked together to create our very own secret code so we could write to each other in “secret.” To this day, I can still write in this secret code. Work with your kids to create your own secret code using pictures, symbols, or even sounds!

Sidewalk chalk games

Another easy way to get your kids’ creative juices flowing is to use sidewalk chalk. Find a place on your driveway or on a sidewalk and have your kids trace their body to learn about anatomy or draw a map of your local area! You can also use sidewalk chalk to play games like foursquare and hopscotch!

Slime

Slime is a fan favorite for all ages and is one of our creative homeschooling go-tos. It’s fun to make, fun to play with, and easy to clean up. There are tons of slime recipes out there that use different ingredients to create different consistencies. So, make it a science experiment and watch how different ingredients react when making slime!
Lemon slime
Crunchy slime
Fluffy slime
Ocean slime

Field day

When I was in school, one of the highlights of my year was field day! You can make field day even better from home by inviting friends and family to participate in your summer homeschool field day! Some of the games you can play include a water relay, bean bag toss, and tug-o-war! For some more ideas, check out how this family created their own homeschool field day!

Bike trips

Getting outdoors is one great way to make homeschooling creative and active. Learning to ride a bike is a fun and memorable activity that everyone should experience! But my family took it a step farther. Each summer, my family took a few days to go biking and camping! We learned how to bike long distances, pitch a tent, make a campfire, and so many other fun things! These trips are some of my absolute favorite memories and I can’t wait to do the same with my future family. If you have the time, check out the biking trails near you and make a trip out of it! Use recreation.gov to plan your perfect trip!

Gardening

Start learning about botany hands-on by creating your own home garden! Learn about the anatomy of seeds, the growth process, photosynthesis, and more, while planting flowers, vegetables, or even succulents! Hip Homeschool Moms has some tips and ideas that you can use this summer for creating your family garden!

Paper boats

Creative homeschooling can and should include math. Do you remember making paper boats growing up? Well, a great geometry project deals with making the strongest or fastest paper boat! Use origamiway.com to find your favorite boat design, create them, then race them down a nearby stream!

Homemade Ice Cream

A lot of interesting science is involved in making homemade ice cream! How do room-temperature ingredients become cold and fluffy? Why does salt lower the freezing point? Use this recipe to make your own homemade ice-cream, then research the chemistry behind it!
What creative homeschooling activities do you experience with your family? We would love to hear!

Homeschooling With Netflix

When I was a kid, watching a new movie required convincing my parents to take me and my sisters to a video store, agreeing on ONE move to watch together, and popping it into our DVD player at home. Nowadays, streaming websites, like Netflix, Amazon, and Hulu, make watching movies and TV shows much more accessible. Netflix has also been a game-changer in the world of home education, making it easy to homeschool using educational movies, shows, and documentaries. Homeschooling with Netflix can be an exciting way to learn, and make good use of screen time as a reward. Plus, it’s summer, and sometimes you just need some lazy days! Why not enjoy some cuddling around the screen while you learn as a family? Here are some of our top Netflix educational picks to make homeschooling with Netflix fun for all ages!

Homeschooling with Netflix: Our Favorite Picks By Age

Super Why: age group 3-6
This is an animated PBS TV show that is designed to help children learn basic reading skills! Join Whyatt and his friends on their adventures in literacy. This is great for pre-reading and emerging reading skills, and just plain fun for little ones to watch.

Sid the Science Kid: age group 3-6
Sid the Science Kid is another PBS show, geared towards teaching viewers about basic science concepts! The main character, Sid, uses comedy and games to tackle science principles. Sid himself is a little on the energetic side, something that will appeal to all youngsters, but especially those with ADHD.

The Story of Maths: age group middle school and older
It’s even possible to learn math while homeschooling with Netflix! Have you ever wondered why math is the way it is? Where did zero come from? Why do we learn geometry? What’s up with fractions? In this documentary, Oxford professor Marcus du Sautoy walks you through the history of math and tries to answer the tough questions.

The Bible: age group high school
This is a mini-series that covers the Bible from Genesis to Revelation. It consists of only 10 episodes and tells biblical stories through live-action imagery. It includes major stories, like Noah’s Ark, the exodus, and the life of Jesus. It is a great way to bring the Bible to life.

Brain Games: age group high school
Brain Games is a science television series that explores how the brain works! It explains how we perceive our surroundings, respond to stimuli, and more! This is a very educational and fun show, but there is some *bleeped out* language and mature content, so parents beware.

Are you planning to homeschool with Netflix this summer or this coming school year? If not, consider adding one of these educational programs to your summer homeschooling routine, even as a reward for hard work. Your kids will enjoy learning while vegging out, and you’ll get a break in your day!

Your Perfect Summer Reading List (For All Ages)

Ah, summer! Lazy days, fun outdoors, and time to just sit and chill . . .  BUT WAIT! Despite the much-needed break, on average, kids lose 2-3 reading levels, as well as critical thinking and analysis skills, when they take a summer off. Summer is the perfect time to spend lounging around the pool, lying in the hammock, or passing long car rides with a great book. Here are some summer reading lists and ways to encourage your kids to read this summer and stop that summer slide with a few good books from our summer reading list!

Your Best Summer Reading List 

Studies have shown that reading only a few books throughout the summer can help decrease summer slide and promote new neuropathways. So make reading a priority by heading out to your local library or reading books aloud before bedtime. Encourage your child to read something every day, whether it’s the newspaper, a comic book, or a new novel. If it’s their choice, they are more likely to want to participate in summer reading. To sweeten the deal, consider forming a book club where your kids and all of their friends read the same book and meet once a week to talk about it.  

There are copious reading lists out there designed to find the perfect book for your child. Each year, the Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC) puts out a summer reading list for grades pre-k through 8.  Out of all the books offered, we’ve narrowed it down to our favorites for each grade level.  

Preschool and kindergarten summer reading list:

One Lonely Fish: A counting book with bite, by Andy Mansfield
City Shapes, by Diana Murray

1st- and 2nd-grade summer reading list:

What Do You Do With a Problem?, by Kobi Yamada, illustrated by Mae Besom
Marta! Big & Small, by Jen Arena, illustrated by Angela Dominguez

3rd-5th-grade summer reading list:

Out of Wonder: Poems Celebrating Poets, by Kwame Alexander, Chris Colderley, and Marjory Wentworth
Secret Coders, by Gene Luen Yang, illustrated by Mike Holmes

Grades 6-8 summer reading list:

Fish in a Tree, by Lynda Mullaly Hunt
The Inquisitor’s Tale: Or, The Three Magical Children and Their Holy Dog, by Adam Gidwitz, illustrated by Hatem Aly

While the ALSC’s summer reading list only covers pre-k through 8th grade, there are many other reading lists out there for high-school-age students and adults. For example, Scholastic publishes a summer reading list each year for all ages. However, we always encourage students to read some of the classics. Everyday Reading publishes a summer reading guide with books categorized by genre!

When I was growing up, my mom read me a new book nearly every week, and I vividly remember the classics that she read to me. I gained a better understanding of literature from a very young age and was more prepared for the more difficult books and greater reading comprehension. Plus, I will always cherish those memories with my mom. Take the reading fun farther with a movie night once you’ve completed the book. Some of my favorites have been made into films, so consider rewarding your kids by watching the film version when you finish reading. Ready to read aloud together? Here are my favorites compiled into summer reading lists by category!

Summer reading list for the whole family:

Charlotte’s Web, by E.B White
A Wrinkle in Time, by Madeleine L’Engle
Because of Winn-Dixie, by Kate DiCamillo
The Chronicles of Narnia, by C. S. Lewis
The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, by Mark Twain
The Little Prince, by Antoine de Saint-Exupery
The Adventures of Robin Hood, by Howard Pyle

Summer reading list for older students

Little Women, by Louisa May Alcott
1984, by George Orwell
Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, by Mark Twain
Pride and Prejudice, by Jane Austen
Fahrenheit 451, by Ray Bradbury
Mere Christianity, by C. S. Lewis
The Complete Sherlock Holmes, by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
Treasure Island, by Robert Louis Stevenson
Nearly all of the books mentioned so far are books for your student, but if you’re looking for some books to read while your kids are splashing in the pool, I have some great adult reads for you to check out as well!

Summer reading list for adults

Their Eyes Were Watching God, by Zora Neale Hurston
The Color Purple, by Alice Walker
To Kill a Mockingbird, by Harper Lee
The Secret Life of Bees, by Sue Monk Kidd
The Help, by Kathryn Stockett
Don’t let your family be affected by Summer Slide; check your local library or bookstore to find books that will help your student enjoy reading and facilitate learning!

5 High School Homeschool Field Trips for the Summer

Homeschooling gives teenagers freedoms not otherwise found in a traditional school system — but sometimes the walls feel like they are closing in. That feeling makes you feel a bit bonkers, right? Remember, folks, the number one reason that homeschooling rocks is FLEXIBILITY!

The Best High School Field Trips

Sometimes, getting out of the house for a day on a homeschool field trip gives you a little inspiration or a spark of enthusiasm. Think about what interests you — what would get you out of the house. Go on homeschool field trips and discover something new! We have five homeschool field trip ideas for the sunny summer months.

  1. Take a historical / living history tour Reading about history in books can be a bit ho-hum, but experiencing a re-enactment where everyone is in period costume can bring history vividly to life. You can go on a lot of homeschool field trips with history! For example, if you’re in Pennsylvania and you’re studying the Civil War, travel to Gettysburg. Connecting the textbook to real life arises from seeing the battlefield firsthand. This homeschool field trip is a great way to make history come alive!
  2. Attend a murder-mystery theater or an escape room Put your detective skills to work, all the while being entertained to the nth degree. Make sure to get as many pre-show or escape room details as possible ahead of time, and take paper and pencil to jot down notes. Write down clues you figure out, the small details that spark a hunch, and the logical progression that your mind undergoes during the course of the thrilling investigation. You can compare thoughts later and determine how Sherlock-minded you really are. An escape room or murder-mystery theater sharpens your critical thinking skills, stretches your imagination, and allows you to be creative. These are great life skills for the future!
  3. Volunteer-related field trips A community service “field trip” can be a day or two of both learning and giving. Look for an opportunity that really suits your field of interest, or even a career path that you have been kicking around. These give you a chance to serve and learn at the same time. For instance, if you are an animal enthusiast, volunteer at a vet clinic or animal shelter. This homeschool field trip is a perfect way to rack up community service hours while making a difference!
  4. Student-planned park trip It’s summer! What better way to spend it than learning outside in creation? With the Internet at your fingertips, downloading trail maps and information about local flora and fauna is easier than ever. You can plan the whole trip from top to bottom and visit the park of your choice. Start a nature journal about the things you “might” encounter, then compare it in the end to the things you “do” encounter. A nature journal is a great way to understand more about the world around you using drawings, the senses, and research. Don’t forget to pack a lunch!
  5. Visit a college or university You can never start looking at colleges too early! Whether you’re a freshman or an incoming senior, a university visit is a great way to prepare yourself for the next phase of your life. It’s even better when you stay overnight! You really get the feel and flavor of college life and see the bustle of students in action. Research the history of the university, and be sure to focus on the colleges or areas of your own interest. Be sure to include any sports and extracurricular activities that inspire you as well. This can be a great way to hype yourself up for the upcoming school year. This homeschool field trip is fun and educational — you’ll learn about what you want to do in the future and find new interests as well! Check out this blog post about how you can prepare for college right now.

Bottom line is, homeschool field trips can be way more fun than their traditional school counterparts. No stuffy and noisy bus rides, no cafeteria-bagged lunches, no fighting classmates or high drama of any kind. Best of all, YOU get to plan it — in an area that really interests you — so put your thinking cap on and figure out a way to enjoy the summer while out and about in your world!

High School Homeschool 101: Financing College

Homeschooling families are resourceful. We bond well, work efficiently together, and cheer each other on. Most families who choose to homeschool their kids have a college education in mind. When you make the calculations and discover the actual costs involved, sticker shock is a common way to feel. However, finding a way through the tricky world of college finances is something that you CAN do. How? There are numerous resources online. All you need is a bit of research and investigation, and you can net a valuable reward. So, in order to combat sticker shock, here are some tips on how to get through the college years with financial success.

Run a scholarship search. There are some great search tools available online to give you a leg up on the scholarship drive. There are tons of scholarships out there, and sometimes finding them is the hardest part! Certain scholarships are very specific. Categories such as particular religions, locations, and parental occupations, are just a few examples. It’s wise to start during your junior year of high school homeschool, so you can net a few scholarships even before you graduate!

  • Scholarship Search Search 2.7 million local, state, and national college scholarships and grants by creating a profile with preferences and key interests.
  • Big Future Find scholarships, other financial aid, and internships, from more than 2,200 programs, totaling nearly $6 billion. Enter as much information as possible to find the best matches.
  • Salt Scholarship Tool  Large and excellent search tool for locating scholarships.

Plan to work — and take classes — during the summer. If you take a couple online high school homeschool classes, or even a class or two at a local community college, it can make a huge difference in your education. You could even graduate a semester early! This can be a huge advantage in the job market because you enter it at a time when there are fewer brand-new graduates competing for positions. Companies don’t just hire in June; they hire when they need people.

Don’t look down at a season of community college. Community colleges often get an undeserved bad reputation. Some of these schools offer a great education at an amazing price. It’s worth looking into for a semester or two of general ed credits that can be completed while living at home, before transferring to your dream school.

Consider professional advice. Be sure to take your time when applying for financial aid, and don’t shy away from seeking professional help because of cost. Simple mistakes could cost you tens of thousands of dollars. Talk to a financial aid representative for advice at the schools you applied to. Learn more about the college’s or university’s scholarship or financial aid program. You’ll be wiser about what kinds of choices you want to make regarding your college finances.

Check to see if you are qualified for federal aid. There are many factors that contribute to qualification, so don’t count yourself out before checking. To receive any form of federal financial aid — which includes Pell Grants, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG), Perkins Loans, Stafford Loans, PLUS Loans and Federal Work-Study jobs — you must submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, known by its acronym, FAFSA.

Limit Living Expenses. When it comes to college, every penny counts. That means every cost-cutting and frugal-living technique should be your number one priority. Living on your own is by no means an easy feat, but it can be done. Whether you’re still in high school homeschool or you’ve already decided on a college, start an Excel workbook or Google Sheet document to create a budget. There are many forms out there, such as this one from NerdWallet, or perhaps use an app found here from Rasmussen College. Have your parents guide you through the process. With a budget, you can be sure that no expense will not be tracked!

Move Forward. The expense of college can be managed through careful planning. You’re moving from high school homeschool to an experience that’s wonderful and challenging at the same time. From scholarships to FAFSA to budgets, you’re bound to find something that works for you. College finances don’t have to be stressful. Remember, where there’s a will, there’s a way.

How to Plan the Perfect High School Graduation

When all of the schoolwork is completed, the last test has been taken, and your homeschooled teen is ready to pursue the next phase of his or her life — it’s time to graduate! While some people believe graduation ceremonies are an artificial milestone, they also signify a rite of passage. They signify both an end to teenhood and the beginnings of adulthood. In addition to marking the transition to another phase of life, they also recognize the achievements and hard work that helped the student reach that point.

Your teen’s homeschool education has been such a unique and personalized experience that their high school graduation should be tailored to them!
Here are three things to consider when planning the perfect homeschool graduation ceremony for your teen.

Make it a bonding experience. Putting together a high school graduation celebration together is a wonderful bonding experience for you, your teen, and your family. Your teen should definitely have a say in commencement, but this special occasion is a great time for the whole family to pitch in. Have Dad go pick up the balloons. Your teen can plan a menu for the party. With everyone involved, the celebration will be more special because your family bonded over your teen’s achievements.

Decide the type of ceremony. There are plenty of options available when it comes to planning a graduation celebration. Homeschool graduation ceremonies can be formal or casual, large or small. Does your teen want a private ceremony or a public one with other homeschooled teens? Many homeschool groups and co-ops offer local, regional, and state graduation ceremonies in which your teen can participate. There’s also the option of having a “friends-and-family”-type ceremony or just going out to dinner. Ultimately, high school graduation can be anything your teen chooses!

Plan ahead. If you and your teen are planning a formal high school graduation, there are some ideas to consider. Will you rent a banquet hall? Send out email or formal cards as invitations? Where is a location that will accommodate all of the guests your teen wants to invite? Professional or home video? Who will speak at the ceremony? Friends, tutors, and family members can all share words of encouragement! There is a lot of planning for a formal high school graduation, so keep these ideas in mind when it comes to the big day!

Commemorate this special day! Remember, your teen has enjoyed a very singular and unique educational experience. Throwing him or her into a group of three hundred strangers at the local high school may sound like a fun idea, but your teen might want something all their own! Instead, make their ceremony as special and memorable as their education has been.

Is your high schooler a Bridgeway student?  Every year, Bridgeway celebrates our graduates by having a ceremony. This generally includes walking with the class, diplomas, photos, and a reception filled with food and fellowship! To find out more about this, contact your advisor.

Fun Outdoor Spring Lesson Plans for Homeschoolers

We think the homeschool environment can be a great experience for parent and student alike, for quite a few reasons. In addition to the family bonding and unity it can create, you are also given an incredible gift through schooling from home: a unique flexibility to turn your classroom into exactly what you want it to be. Remember that it doesn’t have to be inside! You have the freedom to choose your learning “spot” and to venture out into the world just to see what the day may bring forth as a learning experience.

The spring season is the perfect time to move your classroom out of doors; the simple act of being outside and breathing fresh air, and feeling the breeze on your skin, can be invigorating and inspiring. Taking learning outdoors shouldn’t just be a case of half an hour of story-time in the sunshine. The outdoor classroom is a world full of opportunities for learning, creating, and exploring. So, we’ve taken the opportunity to put together some fabulous outdoor spring lesson plans for you!

Develop a learning garden.

It’s okay to get your hands dirty! Developing a garden can be rewarding and fun. Gardening can affect the mind, body, and soul. According to PBS Kids, kids who garden score higher in science achievement tests than those who don’t tend a garden. Getting dirty from mud means your student is physically active. Spending time with family and friends can bring people closer together, too.
Check out some of these spring lesson plans on how to create your own garden:

  • Vertical gardening Not enough space to develop a full garden? Try out some creative ideas, such as using cinder blocks, a trellis, hanging baskets, and more. Vertical gardening is great if you live in a city where there isn’t much room to have a full-size garden.
  • Planting sunflowers Nothing says “summer” like sunflowers! It’s best to plant these as soon as you have your last frost. This tutorial shows your student how to plant sunflowers, tend them throughout the summer, and of course, enjoy them!
  • Turn a sandbox into a planter box. Have your kids outgrown the old sandbox? One kid’s old toy is another family’s treasure! Check out how this family turned the sandbox into a family garden. A great way to upcycle something old to something new! Plus, your kids will learn how plants grow (biology lesson, anyone?), and they learn the responsibility of taking care of a garden.  These spring lesson plans for tackling a garden are perfect for the budding (no pun intended!) garden enthusiast.

Create a sensory mystery.

  • Have your student record the sounds from several streams, creeks, or rivers that you may have access to. Play them back to family members and see if they can guess where you were when you made the recording, and what made the sound. Have your student think of clues ahead of time to help others guess.
  • Next, using your nose and a tape measure, determine how far you can move away from a flower or identified scent and still smell its essence. While the smell of trailing arbutus may only be discernible for several feet, spring lilacs can be scented from much farther
  • Using a camera with a good close-up lens, take pictures of the same buds on several different trees or bushes every day for a week or two in a row. Arrange the pictures from first to last and note the different rates for leaf out. Which tree or bush leafs out first? Last? Make sure to identify them all, and note what nuts or berries they may produce for local wildlife.

Investigate landscapes through art.

  • Plan outdoor art as part of your spring lesson plans; it’s a great and inspirational venue for creativity and fun.
  • Take a whole box of art supplies — watercolors, sponges, paper, and even easels if you have access to them — along on your adventure. If you’re not naturally artistic, there are many online resources to help you prepare ahead of time!
  • Leaves also make excellent specimens for charcoal and colored pencil rubbings; the texture and outline of the leaf will come right through. You can later identify what trees the leaves belong to by researching online, or using a book or manual. Make sure to pay attention to the texture and color of a tree’s bark as well; it helps with identification!

Spend a day at a nature preserve or conservation organization.

  • Spring is the time when most conservation groups and wildlife refuges begin a flurry of programs for students. Hop online and look around your area; you will most certainly be surprised at what you find. Spend a day focusing on our entire ecosystem and its local flora and fauna, and investigate our own individual roles in the conservation of precious resources.
  • Participation in these types of programs not only teaches your student about wildlife and natural resources; it helps build a sense of pride and community — and a feeling that they CAN make a difference in their own future through their actions now. Showing a student how non-profit organizations come together and form groups through the hard work of volunteers will leave an invaluable and permanent impression: that in order to truly have, you must be willing to give.

Explore the world around you.

Homeschool parents know that the best lessons happen in the midst of real-life experiences. Verbal lessons are sometimes difficult for students to absorb. It’s much more fun to take the teaching outside, both investigating and learning at the same time. These spring lesson plans should give you and your student direction for the new season. So get muddy, volunteer, and explore creation during this wonderful time of year. Enjoy the beautiful springtime!

Community Service Ideas: Thanksgiving Edition

Today’s blog post is about opportunities to serve communities near and far. It’s only appropriate since Thanksgiving is right around the corner! As a Bridgeway student, I spend my time focusing on my academics and trying to find community service projects to add to my – sometimes – hectic schedule! It can definitely be a challenge thinking of new, unique ways to help make a change in the world (especially when you’re homeschooled), but I’m here to show you that it isn’t as difficult as it seems, and that – believe it or not – there are some opportunities that can easily fit into your daily schedule. Thanksgiving is a time of giving thanks, and in doing so, you can give back! Read more to find out how you can contribute this holiday season by giving back to those in need.

Bridgeway Service Projects

An easy way to get involved, while earning service hours, is through Bridgeway Academy’s community service projects. Each year, Bridgeway partners with an organization to host a unique, informational service project. Not only do students get to help others, they may also gain knowledge in the process! Last year, Bridgeway hosted an Act of Compassion event with Compassion International to raise awareness and funds for, and to give hope to, those in the heart of the lasting devastation in Haiti.

Leading up to act day, participating students were instructed to write journal entries based on what they had learned in the weekly emails. The final day consisted of a variety of activities that Bridgeway students and their families could choose from to enhance their learning experiences. Likewise, Bridgeway partnered with God’s Pit Crew earlier this school year to help those suffering from natural disasters by giving students the opportunity to raise money and create Blessing Buckets for those in need. God’s Pit Crew is still open to receiving donations – find out more here.

All in all, participating in Bridgeway Academy’s annual service projects is a great way to make a change in the world, get involved in the community, and earn hours for your humanitarian service.

Fundraising

Another great way to serve the community is to fundraise for a cause. Pick a cause you’re passionate about, or a charity or organization you seek to help, and start your fundraiser! You can fundraise money for a not-for-profit organization or even collect canned goods for your local soup kitchen. Fundraising not only helps provide for others, it also allows individuals to raise awareness at the same time! I am a fundraising partner with Ferocious Fighters, which is a not-for-profit organization that provides care packages for children around the world who are diagnosed with CRPS/RSD (Complex Regional Pain Syndrome/Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy).

I was diagnosed with CRPS a few years ago, and my loved ones nominated me to receive a care package from Ferocious Fighters. Once I had heard of, and experienced myself, the hope that this organization gives to children and their families enduring the pain and heartbreak of such a condition, I knew I needed to help in some way and give back to them. I decided
to contact them and become one of their fundraising partners, selling awareness bracelets to my family and friends and raising awareness along the way. The money helped Ferocious Fighters continue providing care packages for other nominated children on their wait list – I’m glad I could be a part of something so special and dear to my heart.

Feeding the Homeless

Additionally, a more hands-on option is helping feed the homeless through your local soup kitchen. You can volunteer your time to serve your community close-to-home by helping make food in the soup kitchen for the homeless shelters and donating canned goods to them as well. This goes along with the option to fundraise, because you can hold a food drive in your neighborhood for people to donate items to the soup kitchen.

Making Cards

A great way to make a change in a world much bigger than ourselves is to make cards for various causes. A few years ago, I was in the position of trying to find new community service projects to participate in. I was stuck, but luckily, the Internet saved the day! I found an organization, while doing research online, that collects cards from people like myself who want to make a difference and put a smile on someone’s face!

Cards for Hospitalized Kids is an organization that receives cards from people around the U.S. and sends them to various hospitals. The cards are then sorted out and given to hospitalized children with terminal illnesses. I’ve been contributing to this organization by making and sending them cards throughout the year for a few years now, and it gives me joy knowing I have made someone’s day a little more special and filled with love. This idea was ideal for me personally because I had a busy schedule, but I still wanted to help. It’s very simple: all you have to do is gather craft supplies, create cards with words of motivation, and send the cards to the address listed on their website.

If you leave a return address, they will send you a letter back thanking you for your kind services. If you are artistic, or have a child at home who likes to draw, you can have a lot of fun decorating the cards any way you’d like – I’m sure the children would love to see your masterpieces! This is also a great idea for religious education classes and large groups to participate in!
In addition, you can make cards and care packages for those serving our country. Check out some resources that I’ve gathered for this special cause below:

And that’s it! From volunteering your time at a local institution to contributing to causes in the comfort of your own home, there are many opportunities available for you to provide your service to help those in need. Making a change, whether big or small, starts with one idea. One spark of inspiration. One helping hand. Together, we can positively impact the world around us, one effort at a time.

So, what are you waiting for? Get started in giving back by serving your community today! And make sure to let us know in the comment section below of any additional community service ideas you have!

Happy Thanksgiving!

My 8 Top Educational Apps- A Teen’s Perspective

As a high school student, I’m constantly trying to find ways to make learning more efficient. In the modern age of technology, there are numerous websites and products that can help us each individually on our learning paths, and that’s why I love educational apps. There are free downloadable applications in the app store that are specific to almost any topic or category, including preschool and kindergarten, elementary school, middle school, high school, higher education, and any class in-between.
Not only do educational apps make learning more simple and easy, but they train and strengthen your brain at the same time! Today, I’ll be sharing with you my 8 top favorite educational apps, in no particular order, that I use frequently and have found to be significantly helpful.

1. Focus Keeper / Brain Focus
Focus Keeper or Brain Focus is an app that uses the Pomodoro Technique, a time management method, to allow you to work to your highest ability without getting burned out. Each interval is 25 minutes long with a 5-minute break in-between, and after 4 focus sessions, you are given a longer break (about 25 minutes). During each break, you can make tea, get up and move around, and recharge yourself for the next study session. It may sound complicated, but the app is very user-friendly and allows you to be your most-productive self!

2. NeuroNation
NeuroNation is a brain-training app that offers a variety of “brain games” with different levels of effectiveness. Each game is easy to learn and tests your strengths, weaknesses, and other cognitive functions, ultimately dusting off – or strengthening – certain parts of your brain that you may not use as often as others. Topics include memory, processing speed, willpower, flexibility, visuospatial attention, and mental math. Currently, my top two strengths (based on the games I’ve completed) are memory and processing speed, and my weaknesses are willpower and flexibility. It’s a fun way to be competitive against yourself while knowing you are engaging your brain.

3. Elevate – Brain Training
Elevate is a similar brain-training app that offers personalized brain training, daily game workouts, and training in critical skills. The app helps you improve your comprehension and focus, and lets you track your progress along the way. Additionally, it’s easy to use and calculates your score in general topics, including writing, listening, speaking, reading, and math. With this app, you can improve valuable skills and strengthen key abilities. I often find myself reaching for this app in my free time because it isn’t boring – it rather tests my abilities, and I find myself very motivated because of it!

4. Kahn Academy
Khan Academy allows you to learn almost anything for free,” as its description states – and it really does! There are over 10,000 videos and explanations in categories such as math, science, history, and more. You can follow along to corresponding topics from school, or learn something new, because you have access to over 40,000 practice questions with instant feedback and step-by-step hints. Most times, when I’m stuck on a particular method in chemistry or algebra, I search for the topic in Kahn Academy and try to figure it out from there. Kahn Academy is also partnered with the College Board to provide SAT practice – which comes in handy for test-prep, especially during the spring season!

5. Quizlet
I’m sure you all know what Quizlet is, but if you’ve never heard of it, then you’re most likely missing out on the great sources it has to offer! You can create your own flash card sets and choose from flash cards that are made by other users just like you. Whether you’re studying for a quiz, test, or exam (like the SAT or ACT), memorizing key terms is fun and easy with this online flash card option!

6. Duolingo
I’ve been using Duolingo for about 5 years now, and it has to be one of my favorite free applications for learning a new language. There are 23 languages to choose from, including the basics like Spanish, French, Italian, and English. You can test your reading, writing, and speaking skills in the language of your choice through mini-games and activities, and even have fun while doing it by leveling up and competing with friends! What more could you want from a language-learning app?

7. myHomework Student Planner
myHomework Student Planner is basically what it’s titled: a student planner. Its simple interface makes for easy use, and allows you to track your classes, homework, tests, and assignments all in one timely display. Since I am homeschooled, I use this app to stay on top of all of my classes by scheduling the times (period-based) that I would spend working on them, which can alter from day-to-day.

8. Microsoft OneNote
This is one of those apps that is generally for all things note-taking – which is why it is one of my top 10 favorites! You can create digital notebooks, record audio, attach pictures, make to-do lists, and share notes with friends (just like you would with other Microsoft applications). Instead of jotting down ideas or tasks in my “Notes” app, I simply create separate notebooks and checklists in OneNote to stay organized. It’s perfect for on-the-go use when you need a notebook on hand – and best of all, it’s free!
What are some of your top educational apps?

Why Exercise Solves Homeschool Sibling Rivalry

As the oldest child in my family, homeschool sibling rivalry constantly reared its ugly head. I often thought that my siblings were annoying or too clingy. I remember my sister always wanting to play with my friends, read my books, or wear my clothes (although honestly, this one went both ways). Now that I’m older though, I love being able to relate to her over the same things; and it helps our relationship grow stronger. But during school, it often turned into conflict.

Homeschool Sibling Rivalry Begins

When my sister Hannah and I homeschooled together, I was always frustrated by having to wait for her, or sometimes, keep up with her academically—definite homeschool sibling rivalry! We did all the same things, we played piano, played soccer, read the same books, and wore the same kind of clothes. Because of this, we were frequently getting into arguments or competing with each other both academically and on the sports field. My mom, being the brilliant woman that she is, knew exactly how to handle this: physical exercise.

Most times she would make us run laps around the house, but sometimes we would get to play soccer! She would drive us down to the soccer fields and we would compete against each other by trying to see who could get the most goals. While you may think homeschool sibling rivalry increased during this time, mom had better intentions. She encouraged us to practice teamwork by passing the ball back and forth. Another activity my mom encouraged was bike riding. Right down the road from us was a giant hill. My sister and I loved racing down that hill trying to see who could go the fastest.

By the time we finished our exercise, we were too tired to argue. We had gotten our competitiveness out through sports, not homeschooling! Our bodies may have been tired, but brains were always ready to go back to work!

Studies show that exercise can significantly improve cognitive ability! Exercise enables students to focus better and work more efficiently. Not only that, but studies also show that students who exercise regularly have better working memories, better problem solving skills, and score higher on standardized tests when compared to students who don’t exercise.

Most physicians recommend that students get at least 60 minutes of physical activity per day. This doesn’t mean that they have to do it all at once, but taking a few brain breaks here and there can definitely help improve your student’s academic performance. Here are some examples that your student can use to exercise and have fun:

Exercise Works on Homeschool Sibling Rivalry

  1. Running: Running is my favorite form of exercise because it gets my heart rate up and my blood pumping! I always feel energized and ready to take on the world after a run.
  2. Bike riding: Going for a short bike ride is a fun way to exercise because you can hit the trails, practice your speed, or just take a short break from your studies.
  3. Jumping Rope: My go-to activity at recess was always jumping rope. I remember trying to twist the cords, hop on one foot, and I even tried Double Dutch! Jumping rope is a lot of fun because there are so many ways to do it.
  4. Play a sport: It’s really easy to just grab a ball and play basketball, soccer, football or kickball. The great thing about playing a sport is that it not only encourages exercise, but it also teaches teamwork.

As a college student today, I still value my exercise. I have track practice, I get to walk to class, and my school offers fun classes like Zumba! If I’m ever feeling stressed about school, I know that exercise will help, and it is a great habit to get into at a young age.

Helping Your Homeschooler Prepare for College

Homeschooling is a great way to help your children prepare for college. It instills qualities and skills that many traditional schoolers don’t learn until they reach college. Homeschoolers have the advantage of learning time management, motivation and self-teaching long before they ever set foot into a college classroom. Because of this, they often have an easier time transitioning to college life.

Establish Independence and Self-Motivation

My mom was a brilliant homeschooling mom, but she also worked full time. Because of this, I learned independence and self-motivation. I created my own schedule, and even made my own deadlines. Once these were set, my mom held me accountable. Ultimately it was my responsibility to ensure that I finished the school year on time.  This was a great skill for me to learn. It translated into avoiding procrastination in college. I have been able to stay on track and avoid writing 12-page papers at 4 a.m. because of these skills. Homeschooling helped me learn  independence to create good habits before I even attended my first college class.

Homeschooling also helped me create good study habits. Some students will have the misfortune of having college professors not focused on teaching, which usually necessitates teaching yourself the material. Homeschoolers have a really big advantage here because we’ve been doing this for years!

Prepare for College with Scheduling Skills

Although homeschooling taught me a lot about how to prepare for college, I did realize that I was missing a few essential skills.
Having been homeschooled, I was used to doing schoolwork on my schedule. I never had to wake up at 8 a.m. for class. As long as I finished all my work by the end of the day, it didn’t matter what time I awoke. Because of this, punctuality is something you definitely want to work on as you prepare for college. I had to set about 12 alarms each morning to make sure I was up in time for class. I also had to time how long it took me to walk from one building to the next. I was an expert speed walker by the end of my first semester!
I always made sure that all of my materials were prepared before the professor walked into the room. I wasn’t used to “living by the bell.” If I could go back, I would try setting up a more time-appropriate schedule for my homeschooling day to prepare for college and it’s time-driven schedule.

Understand Nutrition Schedules

It was also strange and unsettling not being able to eat whenever I wanted. I know that sounds silly, but in college it really is a big deal! Many professors had “no food” policies, so when my stomach started growling at 12:22 p.m., I had to wait 50 minutes before I could even consider eating. It was surprising just how much my hunger distracted me. I learned that the term “hangry” is a real and perfectly valid emotion! I learned to manage my time and fit food into my schedule the hard way. I also learned to pack snacks and how to be sneaky when eating in the hallways.

Advice

Overall, I would say that homeschooling helped me prepare for college in all the most important ways. But it didn’t prepare for me for the daily regimented schedule that came along with it. My advice to you is try incorporating more structure into your day. I don’t mean structure that you can change if you feel like it. I mean structure that you have to stick to, even if you wake up 20 minutes late or find your stomach growling in the middle of class. It really will make a big difference as you prepare for college!
What advice do you have? Have you learned something the hard way?  Share those experiences with us!

How to Apply to College for Homeschoolers

I remember applying to colleges like it was yesterday. I remember the excitement of online college searching, the Google image searches of college campuses, and the long phone calls with admissions counselors. Choosing a college is, in many cases, the most important decision of your life thus far. There are so many things to take into account and so many colleges from which to choose. It can be hard to figure out where to start. So here are my important tips for homeschoolers as they apply to college.

How to Apply to College

  1. Create a “CommonApp” account. Many colleges have switched to using the CommonApp because it makes the application process a LOT easier. You fill out one online application that is available every time you apply to college.
  2. If you haven’t already, make a College Board account. The College Board is a useful tool for many reasons. First off, it is where you will sign up for—and receive—your SAT results. You will use College Board to send your SAT scores to the CommonApp, and when you apply to colleges not included on the CommonApp.
  3. The College Board website also has a great tool called “College Search.” College Search lets you put in filters like Type of School, Location, Size, Majors, Tuition Cost and more to make it easy finding colleges that fit your needs! If you have any idea what you want in a college, start here! Plus, it shows you which schools will waive the college application fee! 
  4.  Don’t be afraid to ask questions. If you want to know something about a college, call the admissions office and ask them! Not only will you get the answer more quickly, the school admissions office will also know that you’re interested and serious about the school! In some cases, this may even boost your chances of getting into that college.
  5. Pay attention to important dates! When you apply to college, remember that a deadline is a deadline. Submitting something late can be a huge strike against your application. Put important dates into your planner and make sure you are completing everything in a timely manner!
  6. Create a college timeline! This timeline should have dates marked from September all the way to National College Decision Day on May 1! Make sure to input application dates, letters of recommendation, SAT test dates and early decision timelines! Having all of this planned out will help ease stress and enable success.

I hope these were helpful tips! College is the best time of your life, even if getting there is a little stressful! If you’re a Bridgeway student, your advisor can also be very helpful in figuring these things out! Just call your advisor to help you create your resume, write you a letter of recommendation, and send out your transcripts! I had my advisor send out  17 total transcripts. They really are here to help as you apply to college!