• Facebook
  • Pinterest
  • Instagram
  • YouTube
  • LinkedIn
  • Skip to secondary menu
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer

Tina's Dynamic Homeschool Plus

Activity, Change, Progress

  • HOME
  • How to
    • Preschool
    • Kindergarten
    • Elementary
      • Geronimo Stilton Books
    • Middle School
    • High School
      • Science 
  • Planner
  • Lapbooks
    • Trioramas
    • History Games
    • LEGO
  • Shop
  • GET STARTED NOW!
    • Learning Styles
  • 7 Step Planner
    • Free Student Planner
    • Free Home Binder
  • Unit Studies
    • Creation to Ancients
      • Mesopotamia
    • Middle Ages to Reform
    • Exploring to Revolution
    • World Wars to Today
    • Science
  • Curriculum
    • More Unit Studies
    • Geography
    • Writing PreK to 12th
    • Free Art Curriculum
  • BootCamp
    • Resources
      • Ultimate Unit Study Planner

handson

How To Make An Awesome Slime Flask Activity | Fun Facts About Marie Curie For Kids

April 15, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Besides fun facts about Marie Curie for kids we are going to discover some amazing books, activities, and even make a “radioactive” slime flask for fun.

Marie Curie was born in Poland. She loved learning, especially about science.

And she became famous for her studies and use of the term “radioactive”, a word to describe the phenomenon of elements spontaneously emitting radiation.

How To Make An Awesome Slime Flask Activity | Fun Facts About Marie Curie For Kids

So of course, we had to make a slime that celebrates her discovery and is just plain fun to experiment with.

Slime is a simple foray into the world of chemistry using a non-Newtonian fluid that acts like both a solid and a liquid.

Slime is made up of polymers, which are made of long chains of molecules that bind together when the ingredients blend.

It creates a wonderful tactile sensory experience that kids love and they are not likely to forget when you talk to them about Marie Curie while they explore the science of slime.

5 FUN FACTS ABOUT MARIE CURIE FOR KIDS

There are several important things that you should share with your child about Marie Curie so that they can understand who she was and what made her so remarkable.

  1. She Loved Learning- Marie was very smart and always wanted to learn more. Even when it was hard, she never gave up.
  2. She Discovered New Things-Marie discovered two new elements: polonium and radium. These are special materials that glow in the dark.
  3. She Won Big Prizes- Marie Curie won the Nobel Prize, the biggest prize in science, not just once, but twice. She was the first woman to win this award.
  4. She Helped People- Marie used her discoveries to help people. During wars, she helped doctors use special machines to take pictures of bones and help injured soldiers.
  5. She Worked Really Hard- Marie worked very hard in her lab. She spent long hours doing experiments and figuring things out until she understood them better.

Marie Curie showed everyone that women could be incredible scientists too.

She taught us that with hard work and curiosity, you can discover amazing things and make the world a better place.

How To Make An Awesome Slime Flask Activity | Fun Facts About Marie Curie For Kids

Next, look at some of her achievements.

MOST AMAZING ACHIEVEMENTS FUN FACTS ABOUT MARIE CURIE

  • Discovered Polonium, a new element named after her home country, Poland.
  • Discovered Radium, a glowing element that helped in medical treatments.
  • Won the Nobel Prize in physics for her research on radioactivity.
  • Won the Nobel Prize in chemistry for discovering the elements polonium and radium.
  • Medical Advances, she used her knowledge to help create mobile X-ray units to help injured soldiers in wartime.

Also, look at these activities and resources.

MARIE CURIE ACTIVITIES AND RESOURCES

  • I adore the Who Was series and finding Who Was Marie Curie? Was a great discovery for this study from elementary through middle school.
  • Make your own Marie Curie X-Ray STEAM Project that doubles as science and art.
  • The Marie Curie Word Search is a great way to learn vocabulary words associated with her and the discoveries she made.
  • Free History Worksheets on Women Who Changed the World
  • Radioactive Jars are cool for display during your study or as part of a science project.
  • I am really a fan of these picture books, Ordinary People Change The World and found they had one about Marie Curie. They tell stories of amazing people throughout history in a simple way that doesn’t talk down to younger children.
  • Make a Stained Glass Beaker craft while learning about different tools in a lab that chemists and physicists use.
  • If your child loves exploring through experiments you will want to grab a basic Experiments Science Kit For Kids.
  • Create a timeline of Marie Curie’s life with your child from her birth through winning 2 Nobel Prizes and her death on July 4, 1934.
  • Make a Petri Dish Jello Recipe to introduce yet another important lab tool and a tasty one at that.

As a reference to use along with our fun slime experiment, we opened up Superstars of Science to learn a bit about Marie Curie.

How To Make An Awesome Slime Flask Activity | Fun Facts About Marie Curie For Kids

Finally, look at how to make “radioactive” slime.

HOW TO MAKE “RADIOACTIVE” SLIME

You will need:

  • Graduated cylinder, beaker
  • 1 Bottle of school glue (8 oz)
  • 1 Tablespoon baking soda
  • 1 ½ -2 Tablespoons contact solution
  • Glow in the dark paint
How To Make An Awesome Slime Flask Activity | Fun Facts About Marie Curie For Kids

First, pour glue into a bowl and add the glow in the dark paint, stir to combine. You can use any glow in the dark craft paint that you find.

How To Make An Awesome Slime Flask Activity | Fun Facts About Marie Curie For Kids

Mix in baking soda well.

How To Make An Awesome Slime Flask Activity | Fun Facts About Marie Curie For Kids

Add your first tablespoon of contact solution to the mixture and stir, add ½ tablespoon at a time until the mixture starts to lose its stickiness, mix well between each addition to check the texture,  if you want it slimier add less, for a thicker slime mixture add more.

How To Make An Awesome Slime Flask Activity | Fun Facts About Marie Curie For Kids

Knead the mixture by hand for a few minutes.

How To Make An Awesome Slime Flask Activity | Fun Facts About Marie Curie For Kids

To make it fun and give it a Marie Curie twist add it to a graduated cylinder or beaker.

Turn out the lights and be amazed by your “radioactive” creation.

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, homeschool

Free Summer Handwriting Worksheets & Setting Up A Writing Station

April 10, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Summer handwriting worksheets are perfect to keep fine motor and other writing skills sharp throughout the summer break. Or, if you school year-round, it gives your child a fun change of pace for their handwriting practice. Also, look at my page Practical Homeschool Writing Curriculum from Pre-K To High School for more tips. 

To really embrace the summer theme, we are also creating a summer writing station.

Free Summer Handwriting Worksheets & Setting Up A Writing Station

And the beauty of it is that you can customize it for preschoolers all the way up to high school by personalizing it with challenging worksheets and inviting supplies.

Why would you want to make your child write through the summer?

There are plenty of reasons why you should, if not every day at least a couple times a week

BENEFITS OF SUMMER HANDWRITING WORKSHEETS PRACTICE

  • Strengthens hand and finger muscles.
  • Enhance dexterity and coordination.
  • Prevents summer learning loss.
  • Enhanced Cognitive Development.
  • Boosts memory and recall.
  • Improves focus and attention.
  • Preparation for the next academic year.
  • Makes the transition back to writing tasks smoother.
  • Encourages journaling and storytelling.
  • Provides an outlet for self-expression.
  • Build confidence in writing abilities.
  • Fosters a sense of accomplishment.

Also, look at more homeschool writing curriculum and tips.

MORE HOMESCHOOL WRITING CURRICULUM & TIPS

  • Teaching Handwriting When Homeschooling the Early Years Part 1
  • Teaching Handwriting When Homeschooling the Early Years Part 2
  • Teaching Handwriting When Homeschooling the Early Years Part 3
  • Cursive Matters; Handwriting Style Doesn’t + Free Resources
  • 5 Creative Ways to Boost Handwriting in Older Kids
  • Which One is Really the Best Homeschool Writing Curriculum (a comparison)
  • Faith-Neutral Homeschool Grammar and Writing Program
  • 3 Ways to Choose the BEST Writing Curriculum (for a Growing Homeschool Family)
  • Why It Is Hard to Teach Homeschooled Kids Writing But Not Impossible
  • Homeschool Writing Program For Middle and High School Students

  • Powerful Paragraphs: Free Give Me A Paragraph Form (Editable)
  • The Best Writing Tools For Students: Improve Their Writing Efficiency
  • Creative Expression: The Magic Of Calligraphy Writing For Kids
  • 8 Best Handwriting Games For Kids Ages 8-12 Will Love
  • Hands on Writing Activities | How to Make an On the Go Pencil Pouch
  • Discover the Best High School Writing Courses & Recommendations
  • How to Use Handwriting Without Tears Homeschool Multisensory Program
  • How To Choose Writing Curriculum For Struggling Writers & Recommendations
  • Energize Creativity: Free Writing Prompts for Middle School
  • Medieval Writing Utensils: Journey Through Time & How To Make A Penner
  • Free 30 Days PreK To High School Simple Writing Activities
  • Free Summer Handwriting Worksheets & Setting Up A Writing Station
  • Unlocking Imagination: A Guide to Elementary School Writing Topics
  • Best Strategies To Improve Handwriting And Overcome Challenges
Free Summer Handwriting Worksheets & Setting Up A Writing Station

The best writing practice utilizes handwriting skills and creative writing, maybe even some grammar.

So, I have gathered up a little of each as they work hand in hand.

15 FREE SUMMER HANDWRITING WORKSHEETS

  1. Try Summer Writing Topics For Kids if you or they are at a loss for writing ideas and stop the stall.
  2. My Free Under the Sea Worksheets : Dive into the Ocean’s Wonders give your child practice with writing,drawing, and unscrambling.
  3. Tracing the Free Print Handwriting Worksheets for ABCs of Summer Fun daily is great practice, whether it’s on paper or you laminate them and use dry erase markers.
  4. What screams summer more than Ocean Themed Writing Prompts? A great way to get the creativity going.
  5. How about a free worksheet Summer Writing Challenge Calendar that gives an idea for each day.
  6. Summer Writing Activity
  7. Free Printable Summer Tracing Worksheets for Preschool
  8. Preschoolers can color and practice simple letter formation using Summer Alphabet Worksheets.
  9. For older children you will want to work on a skill like Cursive Summer Tracing Words Challenge.
  10. With just a little bit of writing the Summer Word Scramble is a great quick practice idea.
  11. Use these free Editable Writing Sheets for name practice, sight words, or any summer words you would like. If you have a vacation planned you can sneak in some words related to that.
  12. Free Printable Summer Theme Pre Writing Practice Tracing Paths for Toddlers & Preschoolers are for pre writers, great practice for developing fine motor skills and hand eye coordination.
  13. Easy and straightforward these Summer Months Coloring and Writing Pages familiarize younger children with summer months.
  14. A Summer Goals Printable Worksheet is good for elementary through high school.
  15. A blank Summer Bucket List that can be colored as well is a perfect blank slate for practicing writing while making summer plans.

Finally, look at how to make this fun summer themed writing station.

HOW TO MAKE A SUMMER HANDWRITING STATION

You will need:

  • Stackable acrylic drawers. These are perfect!
  • Writing paper
  • Fun pens/pencils
  • Summer themed stickers
  • Small beach bucket
  • Post it notes
  • Postcards
  • Blank greeting cards
  • Envelopes
  • Summer scrapbook paper
  • Alpha stamps/inks
Free Summer Handwriting Worksheets & Setting Up A Writing Station

First, begin by cutting out summer patterned scrapbook paper the size of your acrylic drawers and line them to create a fun backdrop for the season.

Free Summer Handwriting Worksheets & Setting Up A Writing Station

To add another layer of fun you can let your child decorate the drawers with themed stickers as well.

When the next season comes along you can simply apply a bit of heat with a hair dryer to loosen up the adhesive and remove them, swapping them out for new ones.

Free Summer Handwriting Worksheets & Setting Up A Writing Station

In one drawer place writing paper that is for whatever level your child is at, primary, wide, college-ruled, etc.

HOW TO MAKE A HANDWRITING STATION

You could also include some handwriting worksheets.

Free Summer Handwriting Worksheets & Setting Up A Writing Station

In the other drawer add some envelopes, postcards, stickers, post-it notes, pencil sharpener etc…

Free Summer Handwriting Worksheets & Setting Up A Writing Station

Finally, fill up the sand bucket with pencils, markers, and pens in fun colors and different sizes.

You can just pop this on top for an inviting summer themed writing station.

Free Summer Handwriting Worksheets & Setting Up A Writing Station

You can change out the stickers, use different types of paper, and include fun prompts like one of the worksheets listed above each week during the summer to keep it fresh.

Think about adding fun erasers, scented markers, and other items other than basic pens and pencils to make the writing station more inviting.

You might also occasionally include a treat or coupon for one like “go out for ice cream” once their handwriting practice is done.

Free Summer Handwriting Worksheets & Setting Up A Writing Station

Now that you have set  up a writing station that is summer themed your child can use it to write:

  • thank you notes for gifts received
  • postcards to friends and family
  • a short story
  • letters to pen pals
  • out favorite song lyrics
  • a summer menu for the week
  • a review of a book or movie

Then, use it to practice:

  • letters or numbers
  • their name and address
  • common sight words
  • short sentences

Finally, keep a summer journal, create a summer bucket list and write out each activity and creating a comic strip with captions give you a variety of activities.

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, homeschoolanguagearts, language arts, languagearts, summer, writing, writing prompts

Free 30 Days PreK To High School Simple Writing Activities

April 8, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I have a free 30 printable writing prompts for simple writing activities. The free printable prompts are for grades prek to high school to give you ideas for all your children. Also, look at my page Practical Homeschool Writing Curriculum from Pre-K To High School for more tips. 

And one of the best ways to improve the writing process and foster creativity is through writing prompts.

Prompts take all the stress out of what you write about.

Free 30 Days PreK To High School Simple Writing Activities

It allows writers of any level to focus on their creativity, their thoughts and personal expression.

Those reasons are the very ones we want to teach our children to write for.

Not to seek a grade, not to please other people with their topics but kids should write for their own intrinsic value.

And just what are writing prompts?

Writing prompts are short, thought-provoking statements or questions which spark creativity.

WRITING PROMPT BOOKS FOR KIDS

Next, look at these books to help spark ideas for your children.

5 Writing Prompt Books & Story Starters

Use these fun books and story starters to stir the imagination of your writer.

Image for Story Starters: Helping Children Write Like They've Never Written Before

Story Starters: Helping Children Write Like They've Never Written Before

Karen Andreola's charming book is part of The Gentle Art of Learning series. It has all the right ingredients to inspire even the reluctant writer or the student who has experienced discouragement. Karen's JUMBO book of Story Starters encourage children to write in ways they have never written before. Karen's carefully-crafted story starter suspends a student in the middle of a predicament. He is then faced with the question; What happens next? This is his cue to expand and embellish the story however he wants. He learns to write freely; with imagination and zest - and with far more boldness than he may be accustomed to. The action-packed stories are especially appealing to boys. Thumb through the pages to choose whatever story or illustration catches your fancy. Karen has written a large selection to satisfy the varied interests of both boys and girls. To spark even more curiosity, each story is illustrated with one or more engaging, and often amazing, 19th century pictures. The settings are sometimes: intense, sometimes funny, sometimes sweetly domestic, but always pose a challenge. Here is your child s opportunity to: rescue those in danger, comfort the sick, cheer the lonely, laugh with the ridiculous, tame the wild, and do battle for good! Awaken the dormant writer in your child with this lively approach to creative writing.

Image for The Storymatic Kids – Writing Prompts for Young Writers – Storytelling Games – Teacher Tool

The Storymatic Kids – Writing Prompts for Young Writers – Storytelling Games – Teacher Tool

  • Gazillions of Writing Prompts: Make writing fun with 360 storytelling prompt cards and story starters for kids; A creative, family-friendly activity that little and big kids can play together; Age 5 and up, up, up; A gift for writers of all ages
  • How to Use: The basics are super easy: combine yellow character cards with blue complication cards and let your imagination take over; Includes a booklet with creative prompts and non-competitive storytelling games; Play by yourself or in a group

    Image for Writing Prompts for Kids: A Creative Writing Workbook To Inspire Young Writers

    Writing Prompts for Kids: A Creative Writing Workbook To Inspire Young Writers

    Writing stories is one of the best ways for children to give focus to their creativity while learning and having fun. With this fabulous book, your child will find all the guidance and help they need to hone their writing skills and create amazing original stories.Packed with ingenious and inventive writing prompts, this guide inspires kids to channel their inner author. Every child should be encouraged to give free rein to their imagination… These story starters give them the help they need to put pen to paper and create something truly magical.

    Image for 101 Story Starters for Teens: Creative Writing Prompts to Kick Your Imagination into High Gear (Story Starters for Kids)

    101 Story Starters for Teens: Creative Writing Prompts to Kick Your Imagination into High Gear (Story Starters for Kids)

    Take your writing skills to the next level with these fun and creative story starters for teens. This workbook contains over 100 creative writing prompts for teenagers in middle school and high school. Kids in grades 8-12 will get plenty of ideas for their next Language Arts class, short story assignment, or storytelling project.

    Whether you're using this book in the classroom or at home, these story starters will banish blank-page anxiety and kick your teen's imagination into high gear. It's great for teachers, parents, students, aspiring authors, and anyone who loves to write exciting young adult stories.

    Image for The Ultimate Writing Prompt Book for Kids Ages 8-12: a creative workbook to boost literacy skills and spark imagination while exploring exciting story themes and genres.

    The Ultimate Writing Prompt Book for Kids Ages 8-12: a creative workbook to boost literacy skills and spark imagination while exploring exciting story themes and genres.

    This fun, stress-free workbook is much more than a collection of prompts—it helps kids develop strong writing skills, ignite their imagination, and build confidence in storytelling! With engaging prompts and creative exercises, young writers will explore different genres, experiment with new ideas, and discover their unique storytelling voice.

    Then, look at more simple writing activities.

    MORE HOMESCHOOL WRITING CURRICULUM & TIPS

    • Teaching Handwriting When Homeschooling the Early Years Part 1
    • Teaching Handwriting When Homeschooling the Early Years Part 2
    • Teaching Handwriting When Homeschooling the Early Years Part 3
    • Cursive Matters; Handwriting Style Doesn’t + Free Resources
    • 5 Creative Ways to Boost Handwriting in Older Kids
    • Which One is Really the Best Homeschool Writing Curriculum (a comparison)
    • Faith-Neutral Homeschool Grammar and Writing Program
    • 3 Ways to Choose the BEST Writing Curriculum (for a Growing Homeschool Family)
    • Why It Is Hard to Teach Homeschooled Kids Writing But Not Impossible
    • Homeschool Writing Program For Middle and High School Students

    • The Best Writing Tools For Students: Improve Their Writing Efficiency
    • Creative Expression: The Magic Of Calligraphy Writing For Kids
    • Powerful Paragraphs: Free Give Me A Paragraph Form (Editable)
    • 8 Best Handwriting Games For Kids Ages 8-12 Will Love
    • Hands on Writing Activities | How to Make an On the Go Pencil Pouch
    • Discover the Best High School Writing Courses & Recommendations
    • How to Use Handwriting Without Tears Homeschool Multisensory Program
    • How To Choose Writing Curriculum For Struggling Writers & Recommendations
    • Energize Creativity: Free Writing Prompts for Middle School
    • Medieval Writing Utensils: Journey Through Time & How To Make A Penner
    • Free 30 Days PreK To High School Simple Writing Activities
    • Free Summer Handwriting Worksheets & Setting Up A Writing Station
    • Unlocking Imagination: A Guide to Elementary School Writing Topics
    • Best Strategies To Improve Handwriting And Overcome Challenges
    Free 30 Days PreK To High School Simple Writing Activities

    ABOUT THE 6 PAGE FREE PRINTABLE WRITING CHALLENGE

    Next, look at what is included in this free printable writing challenge.

    • 1 preschool writing challenge page for 30 days
    • 1 elementary writing challenge page for 30 days
    • 1 middle school writing challenge page for 30 days
    • 1 high school writing challenge page for 30 days
    • 2 pages rewards and incentives for preschool to high school

    HOW TO GET THE FREE PRINTABLE WRITING CHALLENGE

    Now, how to grab the freebie.  It’s a subscriber freebie.

    That means when you sign up to follow me, you get my emails in your inbox and you get this freebie.

    1) CLICK HERE ON THIS LINK TO SIGN UP ON MY EMAIL LIST & TO GET THIS FREEBIE.

    2) Grab the freebie instantly.

    3) Last, look for all my emails in your inbox. Glad to have you following me!

    Leave a CommentFiled Under: Teach Homeschool Language Arts Tagged With: composition, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, handwriting, homeschool, teachingwriting, writing, writing prompts

    8 Best Handwriting Games For Kids Ages 8-12 Will Love

    April 7, 2025 | Leave a Comment
    This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

    I have 8 of the best handwriting games for kids ages 8 to 12. Also, look at my page Practical Homeschool Writing Curriculum from Pre-K To High School for more tips. 

    Also, I’m including one that I made up that is grab and go.

    As a homeschooling mom, I’m sure there’s already one thing you’ve found out for sure. It is a lot easier to get your kids to do schoolwork when you make it fun and engaging. 

    While there is absolutely nothing wrong with copy work, repetitive cursive practice, worksheets, workbooks, and the like, switching it up sometimes with games can help your child enjoy what is sometimes a dreaded task.

    8 Best Handwriting Games For Kids Ages 8-12 Will Love

    While I have listed ready to buy or make your own handwriting games I also want to share a game I made to encourage writing.

    It also helps build focus, spelling skills, and a little friendly competition.

    It also helps build focus, spelling skills, and a little friendly competition.

    You can do this game in print or cursive with numbers, letters, words, or even sentences.

    And you just need a couple of sheets of paper and dice so it is perfect for morning time, table time, on the go, or anytime you need a quick practice session.

    MORE HOMESCHOOL WRITING CURRICULUM & TIPS

    Then, look at more activities.

    • Teaching Handwriting When Homeschooling the Early Years Part 1
    • Teaching Handwriting When Homeschooling the Early Years Part 2
    • Teaching Handwriting When Homeschooling the Early Years Part 3
    • Cursive Matters; Handwriting Style Doesn’t + Free Resources
    • 5 Creative Ways to Boost Handwriting in Older Kids
    • Which One is Really the Best Homeschool Writing Curriculum (a comparison)
    • Faith-Neutral Homeschool Grammar and Writing Program
    • 3 Ways to Choose the BEST Writing Curriculum (for a Growing Homeschool Family)
    • Why It Is Hard to Teach Homeschooled Kids Writing But Not Impossible
    • Homeschool Writing Program For Middle and High School Students

    • The Best Writing Tools For Students: Improve Their Writing Efficiency
    • Creative Expression: The Magic Of Calligraphy Writing For Kids
    • Powerful Paragraphs: Free Give Me A Paragraph Form (Editable)
    • 8 Best Handwriting Games For Kids Ages 8-12 Will Love
    • Hands on Writing Activities | How to Make an On the Go Pencil Pouch
    • Discover the Best High School Writing Courses & Recommendations
    • How to Use Handwriting Without Tears Homeschool Multisensory Program
    • How To Choose Writing Curriculum For Struggling Writers & Recommendations
    • Energize Creativity: Free Writing Prompts for Middle School
    • Medieval Writing Utensils: Journey Through Time & How To Make A Penner
    • Free 30 Days PreK To High School Simple Writing Activities
    • Free Summer Handwriting Worksheets & Setting Up A Writing Station
    • Unlocking Imagination: A Guide to Elementary School Writing Topics
    • Best Strategies To Improve Handwriting And Overcome Challenges

    And look at this other fun easy game.

    8 Best Handwriting Games For Kids Ages 8-12 Will Love

    DOUBLES WORD GAME

    You will need a lined piece of paper in whatever line spacing your child is working in.

    After deciding what word or phrase or or whatever it may be that you are writing one person picks up a pencil and begins writing it neatly but quickly as the other person rolls the dice.

    Once the other person gets a double the person writing stops and lays down the pencil and then swap pencil for dice with the other player.

    The other player now begins writing while the other person attempts to roll doubles.

    The “winner “is the first person that reaches the designated number of times that you’ve agreed to write, so say 10 or 15.

    You can be the judge of which ones do not count if they were written to be sloppy or as long as they’re legible, let them all count.

    Another variation is to pull a scrabble tile out and race to write as many words as you can that begin with that letter while the other player  tries to roll doubles.

    Finally,while some of these games are obvious as being handwriting games some you may have to see my vision on the why and how.

    Just remember to get creative with your practice and giving children confidence in spelling and working on fine motor skills long before they begin to write sentences will build a strong foundation for handwriting.

    HANDWRITING GAMES FOR KIDS AGES 8-12

    8 Handwriting Games For Ages 8 to 12

    Your kids will love these handwriting game to mix in with your writing day.

    Image for BLANK SLATE, The Game Where Great Minds Think Alike

    BLANK SLATE, The Game Where Great Minds Think Alike

    This game is simple and requires some writing, a great way to work in print or cursive practice.
    You just need to pick a Word Cue card, write the word you think best completes the phrase, and try to match it with someone else's word.

    Image for Rory's Story Cubes  Spark Imagination with Limitless Storytelling! Creative Game for Kids

    Rory's Story Cubes Spark Imagination with Limitless Storytelling! Creative Game for Kids

    While these can also be used to tell verbal stories, they are wonderful for rolling and having your child write out a paragraph or entire story based on the random roll of the dice.

    Image for Boggle Classic Game | Word Search Games | Ages 8+ | 1 or More Players | Portable Travel Size | Fun Family Dice Games for Adults and Kids

    Boggle Classic Game | Word Search Games | Ages 8+ | 1 or More Players | Portable Travel Size | Fun Family Dice Games for Adults and Kids

    Shake up the letter dice in the box and into place, then try to make words out of any connected dice, write your words in print or cursive until the timer runs out. Not only
    is it good handwriting practice but it will help with concentration, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills, visuo-spatial skills, pattern recognition, and processing speed.

    Image for A Little Wordy

    A Little Wordy

    A silly game by the makers of Exploding Kittens this is another game that requires some writing,making it perfect for disguising handwriting practice.

    Image for Spelling Practice Printable Board Game (Free)
    Photo Credit: literacylearn.com

    Spelling Practice Printable Board Game (Free)

    Practice spelling words, handwriting, and play at the same time using this free printable board
    game.

    Image for Bananagrams: Multi-Award-Winning Word Game

    Bananagrams: Multi-Award-Winning Word Game

    Spell words from the tiles for your child to copy, pull random letters and have them list as many
    words beginning with that letter as they can, or let your child create silly made up words with random tiles and then copy them to paper.

    Image for Sight Word Board Game
    Photo Credit: alwaysexpectmoore.com

    Sight Word Board Game

    For the younger kids spelling or sight words this handmade sight word board game is a great way to customize it specifically to their level and needs.

    Image for Pictionary Board & Drawing Game

    Pictionary Board & Drawing Game

    Drawing is wonderful practice for handwriting through building fine motor skills, spatial awareness,improving creativity, confidence, and learning about details.

    Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: hand writing, hands-on activities, handson, handwriting, homeschool

    Powerful Paragraphs: Free Give Me A Paragraph Form (Editable)

    April 5, 2025 | Leave a Comment
    This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

    The words give me a paragraph can strike fear and paralysis for a writer of any age. Also, look at my page Practical Homeschool Writing Curriculum from Pre-K To High School for more tips. 

    I’m sharing tips in how to infuse confidence, explain what is a paragraph and share a free editable paragraph form to make writing fun.

    Besides, there are numerous reasons why a child can be reluctant.

    Powerful Paragraphs: Free Give Me A Paragraph Form (Editable)

    From not knowing what to write about to fear that their paragraph is wrong, kids can feel defeated before they begin.

    Too, in the beginning when teaching my writers, I jumped into the process before explaining what is to be expected during the writing process.

    For example, the first day should be spent on brainstorming. Writing down a word or phrase that comes to their mind about a subject.

    It’s not about writing the ideas down exactly the way your writer wants to. It’s about getting a vibe about the topic.

    Some kids are naturally creative, but for the most part kids need help in isolating what topic they want to write about.

    HOW TO TEACH COMPOSITION RESOURCES FOR KIDS

    First, look at some of the resources that have worked for me through the years.

    8 Writing and Composition Resources For All Ages

    Whether you’re teaching handwriting, composition, or creative writing solid tips come from having an abundance of composition and materials to choose from.

    Image for Aesop for Children: Story and D'Nealian Copybook Volume I (Aesop for Children Story and Copybook)

    Aesop for Children: Story and D'Nealian Copybook Volume I (Aesop for Children Story and Copybook)

    The Aesop for Children Story and D'Nealian Copywork Book, Volume I, includes seventy-three original unabridged fables illustrated by Milo Winter. Also included are copywork selections using the moral of each fable in D'Nealian style manuscript with adequate space for students to copy the included examples in their best handwriting. How to Teach Copywork:Copywork can seem simplistic. Give your child a sentence or two and have them copy it. It can also seem like busy work, but the benefits are great! Copywork is a simple introduction to handwriting, spelling, and composition. Have children copy only the best authors, with the best writing, and ideas to fill their growing minds. When to begin copywork:Once a child learns how to write their letters comfortably, they are ready to start simple copywork. Start with very short sentences and have them copy it, always in their best handwriting. 

    Image for Writing Strands: Beginning 1

    Writing Strands: Beginning 1

    Learn basic communication skills with this updated Writing Strands curriculum for a new generation!

    This Beginning 1 course was created for students learning to write sentences and paragraphs on their own. The assignments gently guide students through their work each day, helping them master basic writing with unique exercises on dialogue, reporting, interviews, role playing, persuasion, story writing, and organizing and grouping ideas.

    Image for Writing with Ease: Level 1 Workbook (The Complete Writer)

    Writing with Ease: Level 1 Workbook (The Complete Writer)

    In Writing with Ease, Susan Wise Bauer lays out an alternative plan for teaching writing, one that combines the best elements of old-fashioned writing instruction with innovative new educational methods. The Complete Writer workbooks (each sold separately) complement this plan with lessons, student worksheets, and teacher instructions for every day of writing instruction. Each covers one year of study. Used along with Writing with Ease, The Complete Writer, Level One (first in a four-volume set) complete the elementary-grade writing curriculum.

    Image for Jump In, 2nd Edition: Middle School Composition

    Jump In, 2nd Edition: Middle School Composition

    ump In, 2nd Edition retains the step-by-step features of the first edition and its conversational style, along with some humor to ease the fright of writing! Students master the art of writing paragraphs, different types of paragraphs, topic sentences, and main ideas (thesis statements). They also practice writing nine types of essays and one research report. Proofreading lessons are included, along with suggested writing schedules and specific student checklists for each essay assignment.Let student-directed Jump In, 2nd Edition teach composition for you. A suggested writing schedule and checklist come with every essay assignment.Teachers will enjoy the new grading grids for each essay in the Teacher’s Guide, making grading much easier.Middle school. Two semesters. 98 daily lessons.

    Image for The Power in Your Hands: Writing Nonfiction in High School, 2nd Edition

    The Power in Your Hands: Writing Nonfiction in High School, 2nd Edition

    Finally, your teens will write without dread! Have they almost given up on writing? Do they reach for the tissue box when you say, "Write an essay"? Do you worry they won't be ready for high school or college writing? Do they say they think of things to write but can't write them down? With THE POWER IN YOUR HANDS: WRITING NONFICTION IN HIGH SCHOOL, 2ND EDITION, they'll learn essay writing in a relaxed, nonthreatening atmosphere with a little humor thrown in. This 2ND EDITION includes proofreading marks and exercises, a new chapter on common grammar mistakes, and numbered lessons to easily keep track of daily lessons. This course teaches your teens what they need to know for high school and will be prepare them for college writing: persuasion, compare-and-contrast essays, literary analysis, a research paper with MLA documentation, and much more. In addition, students will learn how to write description and narration essays. Beginning writers will feel safe, and advanced writers will enjoy Digging Deeper lessons.

    Image for Writing Rockstars
    Photo Credit: www.writingrockstars.com

    Writing Rockstars

    Homeschooling Students Improve Writing Skills With Our Online Writing Program
    Image for The Art of Poetry

    The Art of Poetry

    If you have ever felt mystified by, or unable to enjoy the significance of poetry, this book will lead you step by step to understanding and love of this branch of literature, guided by a gifted poet and teacher. The Art of Poetry is an excellent middle school or high school curriculum; it will teach the practice of reading a poem slowly and carefully, introduce students to the elements of poetry (such as imagery and metaphor) and the many forms that can make a poem, from sonnet to open verse. In the belief that practice is the best way to learn, this book is rich with explications, exercises, and activities. A biography of each poet is also included, and we are providing audio files of many of the poems.

    Image for Cover Story Set

    Cover Story Set

    Curriculum is a creative one-year writing curriculum for middle school students

    Next, I want to share a few tips to help you understand the writing process.

    Moreover, it’s hard to teach writing when we’re not clear how the process works.

    THE PHYSICAL PART VERSUS THE MENTAL PART OF WRITING

    One of the biggest reasons kids fear writing is that so many skills have to come together.

    For example, spelling, grammar, punctuation, and the creativity to compose all meet when a child begins composition.

    So, it’s very important to explain that because many skills are meeting, the writing process must be done in steps.

    Steps are not necessarily in days but in the beginning they are.

    Younger writers tire easily with both recalling how to write and composing their thoughts at the same time.

    There is no rush. But it is important early on in their writing career to hear the words give me a paragraph.

    Yes, let your child take his time with both the creative process of forming thoughts and the physical act of writing words. However, introduce the writing process as soon as possible.

    As a rule of thumb around 4th grade is the time to write many paragraphs.

    A paragraph is the building block of a lifelong writer.

    WHAT IS A PARAGRAPH

    So, what is a paragraph?

    A paragraph is a group of sentences that talk about the same thing.

    I begin by explaining a paragraph contains 5 sentences.

    They are the 1 topic sentence, 3 supporting sentences, and 1 concluding sentence.

    Then, explain what each sentence is about.

    The first sentence tells you what the paragraph will be about.

    And the second to fourth sentences are supporting sentences. They give you details and examples about the topic sentence.

    Finally, the closing or concluding sentence wraps up what the paragraph is about. It leaves you with a lasting thought about what the paragraph is about.

    As you can see once a child learns to write just one paragraph that example can be duplicated to turn one paragraph to a five page essay. Each page essay represents one 5 sentence paragraph. Now the goal is more clearer.

    Paragraphs help make your writing clear and organized. Once a child learns to write one well formed paragraph writing becomes exciting.

    Each writer desires to write about topics they are passionate about. Our children are no different.

    My form below helps to get your child on the road to writing.

    Then, look at more activities.

    MORE HOMESCHOOL WRITING CURRICULUM & TIPS

    • Teaching Handwriting When Homeschooling the Early Years Part 1
    • Teaching Handwriting When Homeschooling the Early Years Part 2
    • Teaching Handwriting When Homeschooling the Early Years Part 3
    • Cursive Matters; Handwriting Style Doesn’t + Free Resources
    • 5 Creative Ways to Boost Handwriting in Older Kids
    • Which One is Really the Best Homeschool Writing Curriculum (a comparison)
    • Faith-Neutral Homeschool Grammar and Writing Program
    • 3 Ways to Choose the BEST Writing Curriculum (for a Growing Homeschool Family)
    • Why It Is Hard to Teach Homeschooled Kids Writing But Not Impossible
    • Homeschool Writing Program For Middle and High School Students
    • The Best Writing Tools For Students: Improve Their Writing Efficiency
    • Creative Expression: The Magic Of Calligraphy Writing For Kids
    • Powerful Paragraphs: Free Give Me A Paragraph Form (Editable)
    • 8 Best Handwriting Games For Kids Ages 8-12 Will Love
    • Hands on Writing Activities | How to Make an On the Go Pencil Pouch
    • Discover the Best High School Writing Courses & Recommendations
    • How to Use Handwriting Without Tears Homeschool Multisensory Program
    • How To Choose Writing Curriculum For Struggling Writers & Recommendations
    • Energize Creativity: Free Writing Prompts for Middle School
    • Medieval Writing Utensils: Journey Through Time & How To Make A Penner
    • Free 30 Days PreK To High School Simple Writing Activities
    • Free Summer Handwriting Worksheets & Setting Up A Writing Station
    • Unlocking Imagination: A Guide to Elementary School Writing Topics
    • Best Strategies To Improve Handwriting And Overcome Challenges
    Powerful Paragraphs: Free Give Me A Paragraph Form (Editable)

    Also, look at this series Daily Paragraph Editing which is another great way to focus on paragraphs.

    HOW TO GRAB THE FREE EDITABLE GIVE ME A PARAGRAPH FORM

    It’s a subscriber freebie.

    That means when you sign up to follow me, you get my emails in your inbox and you get this freebie.

    1) CLICK HERE ON THIS LINK TO SIGN UP ON MY EMAIL LIST & TO GET THIS FREEBIE.

    2) Grab the freebie instantly.

    3) Last, look for all my emails in your inbox. Glad to have you following me!

    Leave a CommentFiled Under: Teach Homeschool Language Arts Tagged With: composition, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, homeschoolanguagearts, language arts, languagearts, writing

    • « Go to Previous Page
    • Page 1
    • Interim pages omitted …
    • Page 55
    • Page 56
    • Page 57
    • Page 58
    • Page 59
    • Interim pages omitted …
    • Page 178
    • Go to Next Page »

    Primary Sidebar

    Footer

    Privacy Policy | About Me | Reviews | Contact | Advertise

    Categories

    Archives

    Tina Robertson is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

    Copyright © 2026 · 5 TNT LLC · Log in · Privacy Policy