language arts

How to Easily Add Language Arts to Homeschool Unit Studies (& Resources)

May 31, 2026 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

How to add language arts to homeschool unit studies is one hurdle for delight directed learning. Also, look at my page Best Homeschool Unit Studies for more tips and resources.

The fear of missing something huge can keep some tied to a boxed curriculum. The beauty of unit studies is being able to study topics which ignite your child’s interests.

How to Easily Add Language Arts to Homeschool Unit Studies (& Resources)

With that being said, language art skills need to be applied to bodies of knowledge instead of learning language arts skills in isolation. This approach to learning the components of language arts makes it meaningful.

5 WAYS TO ADD LANGUAGE ARTS TO UNIT STUDIES

Look at these 5 ways to easily add language arts to homeschool unit studies.

1. Pair a living book with your unit study.

Although you want to include plenty of living books, depending on the unit study topic you may be using more reference type books.

So if you want to include many elements of language arts, choose one well-written living book to accompany your unit study.

Choose the living book with these things in mind:

Aim for the middle to highest reading level of all your children.
Keep in mind that it’s easier to scale down for language art components than it is to scale up for your highest level reader. Choose a higher reading level if in doubt.
In addition, make sure you understand not only the literary elements like plot, setting, and characters, but the theme too. It’s important for a smooth transition for the theme of the one main living book to connect with the unit study topic. The easiest themes for us in the beginning were ones like good v. evil, courage, and persistence. For example, I chose Swiss Family Robinson by Johann Wyss for our ocean unit study. Surviving on an island as a family if you got shipwrecked appealed as a theme to my kids and is a smooth tie-in to the ocean theme.
You can search for booklist ideas here on my site, but here are some to get you started.

Choosing the right living book means the difference with themes which ignite expressive conversations in your house about your unit study theme and your unit study falling flat and being shallow.

LANGUAGE ARTS FOR UNIT STUDIES

In addition, look at these other components of language arts which can naturally be pulled from a living book:

defining vocabulary words;
dictation;
narration;
copywork;
outlining;
reciting an oral speech;
reading; and
topics for writing or essays.

The bottom line is that a well-written living book can equal a powerful inclusive language arts component.

When the living book is tied to the unit study topic which has already piqued your child’s interest, you’ve set yourself up for success from the start.

That is why I also love using Literary Adventures for Kids.

You choose a book and your kids can do a self-paced online language art course. Doing an online self-paced course where your child chooses the book is a great tie-in for the language arts component.

Look at my post Online Homeschool High School Poetry (No Teaching Involved).

Next, I use quick study guides. Realizing how beautifully I could zero in on the exact skill my kids needed to work on, I use them frequently.

2. Use Quick Reference Materials Like BarCharts.

Because Quick Study Guides can put information in a nutshell and organize skill by grade level, I use them as general guides.

Look at a few tips on how to use these quick guides:

Keep language arts concise and straightforward by learning fewer elements.
With my guide in hand, I can pair the objectives on the quick study guide with our main living book to shore up my kids weak areas in language arts.
My kids put the guides in their notebooks to use as reference for their writing or grammar. I made copies and we used a single hole punch to add them to their notebook.
Also, I could use the guides as a way to orally test my kids or if I wanted to create written quizzes I had a guide.
Likewise as my children grew, they can independently review the guides as memorization tools.

Because quick study guides focus on fewer elements of language arts, our language arts focus could be as complicated or as gentle as we need.

Besides, I’m not paying for a full language arts curriculum, but choosing exactly what my kids need to focus on. Did I mention they last years?

Also, look at this How to Put Together a Homeschooled High School Writer’s Notebook & Free Resources because we added them there. Along with adding free resources online creating a language arts notebooks works.

Add Language Arts to Homeschool Unit Studies

Too, if you live near a Barnes and Noble, I’ve collected several of their guides which are called Quamut. They seem to have more guides about hobbies, but I’ve been able to cull through the quamuts for help in language arts.

However, the SparkCharts are another line of handy references which I love also.

Don’t underestimate the power of the simple and uncomplicated to teach straightforward grammar, punctuation, and types of writing.

You’ll love filling up your bookshelves and notebooks with quick and handy references to get to the point while teaching language arts.

3. Use an Ungraded, Multi-Level Resource.

Then, one of my earliest purchases was one of my best purchases which has stood the test of time.

Kathryn Stout created a series of how-to or reference books for subjects which are basically guides for grades K to 12.

My first purchase was Comprehensive Composition and I used it extensively in my unit studies.

Like the author, Kathryn Stout stated on her site she wrote the Design-A-Study guides to provide both a framework of objectives and detailed methods for teaching basic subjects effectively.

Homeschool Language Arts

For example, having a scope and sequence for composition which can be applied to any unit study for all your kids at one time is sanity-saving.

Equally, despite the age differences between your kids reference guides which lays out objectives and goals keeps composition related to the topic.

What I learned from teaching my kids about composition until high school is that boredom springs from writing about meaningless topics.

An ungraded, multi-level resource gives you freedom to learn how to write well on topics which are meaningful to your family.

However, another useful feature of filling your shelves with resources like these is that you’re using them for years. Unlike curriculum where you’re constantly switching out, a multi-age resource is timeless.

Look at few more resources for multiple grades:

The Art of Poetry is another HUGELY successful multi-level tool with great background information for you the teacher and great details. I REALLY love this resource. Look at my post How to Easily Add Poetry to Your Homeschool Subjects where we used it and continue to refer to it.
How to Teach Children Shakespeare is another keeper because teaching Shakespeare doesn’t have to wait for high school. Look at my post How To Teach Your Homeschooled Children Shakespeare.

Also, another long time keeper in the homeschool world is the book If You’re Trying to Teach Kids How to Write . . . Revised Edition: You’ve Gotta Have This Book! which is from Preschool to 12.

Having books to give you the big picture along with details of how to implement language arts daily keeps unit studies fun. Plus you know you’re not really missing any big language arts gap.

Then, other newer versions of helps for multiple levels have come along like Everything You Need to Ace English Language Arts in One Big Fat Notebook.

4. Play games.

Also, playing games is another fun and easy way to add language arts to unit studies.

While playing games is a fun way to learn language arts, it’s not always a smooth tie-in to a unit study topic. However, I love having options.

I use games sometimes to keep language arts front and center if I don’t have an exact language art tie-in to our current unit study.

You’ll love Sheppard Software online language arts game.
Look at Listography. Preserve your story through your lists and stay inspired.
Rory’s Story Cubes is a great ways to learn about stories hands-on. Whether you bring a fun element to your homeschool or have a special needs child, rolling the cubes are fun.

Another favorite is Scrabble. Attempt to think of words used in your unit study and spell them. It helps with vocabulary too.
Mad Libs are timeless and fun play.

Don’t forget that I have the Ultimate Unit Study Planner. Having an eye for detail and creating many unit studies with multiple levels of kids, I know you’ll love it.

2. Ultimate DIY Homeschool Unit Study Planner
$5.99 Add to cart

5. Free Curriculum Online.

Then of course nothing beats free – ever. However, I didn’t list free resources first because sometimes it’s harder to use free resources.

Not always related to your unit study curriculum, free curriculum can be hard to tie to your subject.

So what I’ve learned through the years is to cover the parts of language art which naturally fit into my current unit study.

Then, I can add in supplementary or free resources.

Here is my post Free Middle and High School Homeschool Language Arts.
Here is a fun way to cover grammar for the littles. It’s a grammar living book, Grammar Land from 1878. It’s in the public domain.

Holt Elements of Language. Here is an entire student handbook broken down into separate .pdfs. It looks high school level.
Free Daily Grammar online.

Do not let fear of missing something make you miss out on delight-directed learning.

Fill your shelves with more how-to books so that you truly enjoy the freedom of homeschooling in the way that best fits your children.

Do you have any favorite multi-level teaching resources or ways you add language arts to your unit studies?

You’ll love some of these other helps:

Hugs and love ya,

7 Best Budget-Friendly Homeschool Language Arts Curriculum

May 30, 2026 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I have 7 best budget-friendly homeschool language arts ideas to pair with your unit studies.

Through the years, I’ve given the same long-standing advice. Spend first what money you have budgeted for curriculum on the core subjects. They are essential to a well-rounded education.

7 Best Budget-Friendly Homeschool Language Arts Curriculum

This is a sponsored post for Homeschool Buyers Co-op and I was paid for my time. However, paid for my time does not mean paid off. All opinions are my own and for sure I will always tell you what is on my mind. Read my full disclosure here.

And its reading in the younger grades and literature in the older grades. Too, grammar and writing are vital pieces of a homeschool language arts program.

And it can become expensive quickly when you’re implementing the unit study approach using an all-in-one language arts program.

So, I was excited to share some budget-friendly homeschool language arts curriculum options.

Breaking down the language arts components worked best for me because like most kids, they are ahead in one subject and may need more time on another.

Mapping Out the Components of Language Arts

Picking and choosing the individual parts of a homeschool language arts program gives you a customized curriculum.

It’s a better match for your child’s learning style and a better value when you have a limited dollar amount to get exactly what you need.

►VOCABULARY

For vocabulary, I always try to pull words from what we’re reading about in our unit studies. Reading words in that context and using them in everyday speech is the best way to master them.

But I used the printed version of Wordly Wise 3000 with Mr. Senior to be sure I exposed him to word study as a way to enhance our unit studies. Kids can master more words than we think they can, and to cripple their vocabulary with limited vocabulary instruction can be detrimental.

Lessons don’t have to be long, but they should be comprehensive. Using Wordly Wise 3000, I can expand lessons or cut back according to each son’s need.

1. WORDLY WISE

Although I know Wordly Wise 3000 touts that the audio feature is great for struggling readers, I think it’s great for independent learners. I don’t have to supervise my sons to see if they are correctly pronouncing a word.

I know you’ll love it if you’re looking for an interactive vocabulary program that is not boring.

2. LITERATURE ADVENTURES FOR KIDS

Then, literature adventures for kids is my VERY favorite stand-alone self-paced online language arts program. Pair a great book with your unit study.

Are you a busy, sweet, overwhelmed homeschooler craving a consistent, dependable language arts curriculum that adds a little enchantment to your homeschool? We help homeschoolers just like you reclaim their time and reduce stress with our open-and-go courses that turn every lesson into an adventure

►READING OR LITERATURE

When I started making my own unit studies, I would get a gallon size ziploc bag and put the book and literature guide together in one bag.

3. PROGENY PRESS LITERATURE GUIDES

Then, I would mark the reading level on the bag and organize them for the year, and I started off using printed versions of Progeny Press Literature Guides.

Too, I would even unfasten the literature guide so I could add just the pages that my boys needed to do for that year.

HOMESCHOOL LANGUAGE ARTS

I printed what I needed that year with one son, and printed a different page or pages needed for another year.

Now, the guides are interactive which means you don’t have to print; a child can type his answers directly into the document. That is a nifty time-saving tip for a high school teen with a rigorous academic load or a reluctant writer. But sometimes we like to hold our paper in hand so we print. And I still like pairing specific lessons on pages to themes in my unit studies.

Look at a few things they offer:

FOUR LEVELS – Lower Elementary for Grades K-4, Upper Elementary for Grades 3-5, Middle School for Grades 5-8, and High School for Grades 9-12
100+ TITLE CHOICES – We’ve put together SIX different 5-pack bundle choices for you! YOU CHOOSE your wish list from OVER 100 TITLE CHOICES! Choose from excellent reading titles such as Beowulf (*NEW*), The Eagle of the Ninth (*NEW*), Charlotte’s Web, Anne of Green Gables, The Island of the Blue Dolphins, The Secret Garden, The Hobbit, Julius Caesar, Macbeth, Pride and Prejudice, The Screwtape Letters, To Kill A Mockingbird, and MANY, MANY MORE!

►GRAMMAR

Grammar is a tool to best apply while writing so I’ve always kept it a separate subject. But grammar is also just the rules of any language. Teaching rules shouldn’t be complicated. Short lessons are best, which is why Analytical Grammar works.

4. ANALYTICAL GRAMMAR

In my beginning years, I used a grammar program which combined complex writing assignments with grammar.

After homeschooling another 5 years, I realized that a grammar program should focus only on explaining grammar rules without time-consuming composition assignments as the only way to learn them.

Yes, writing assignments are a great way to illustrate grammar rules, but shorter is better.

Besides, I needed a grammar curriculum which would give me the flexibility to pull writing themes from topics that piqued my boys’ interest in our current unit study. More important, I wanted a program that helped us to use words in a way that conformed to the rules of grammar. I wished I would have used Analytical Grammar, for grades 4-12 earlier, but I’m glad I hopped on board when I did.

►WRITING OR COMPOSITION

Next, identifying a writing program which was engaging for my sons and took them incrementally through the writing process was not easy. Institute for Excellence in Writing, for grades K-12 was our answer.

Melding Homeschool Language Arts and Unit Studies

It was a huge load of stress off after separating grammar and composition when I started using Institute for Excellence in Writing, grades K-12.

As you can see in the picture above, the boys were working on our FBI unit study. Dad was helping the boys make a crystal radio after they wrote about it.

However, their essay followed the writing model learned in Institute for Excellence in Writing or (IEW). IEW makes it easy to choose your own topics to write about or they have writing topics for your children to choose.

What I liked the most is that although grammar and writing are inextricably linked, it’s important to not overwhelm beginner writers.

5. INSTITUTE FOR EXCELLENCE IN WRITING (IEW)

The veteran teaching tip is to make one skill or the other the focus at different times. IEW explained grammar while keeping the focus on writing and modeling to my sons how to compose their ideas.

Here is how IEW works: It takes a unique approach provides the structure that students need to develop confidence in the writing process, while gradually guiding them toward greater independence and creativity.

They will learn nine structural models (note taking, writing paragraphs, stories, simple reports, writing from pictures, research reports, creative writing, essays, and critiques) to help them organize any type of composition.

►READING OR LITERATURE

Then, buying living history literature guides gives me a two for one deal.

Not only do I use living literature in my unit studies as a topic or theme, but it counts as the reading or literature aspect of the three Rs. Buying living history literature helps me to keep homeschooling affordable.

6. BEAUTIFUL FEET BOOKS (HISTORY & LITERATURE)

With living history literature by Beautiful Feet Books.

Remember, since this is living literature, the vocabulary is not simplified, and it may be harder for some kids.

Though I school for Biblical reasons, I don’t think you have to teach about it in every book.

I do try to choose living history books which have a good story line, are intriguing, have a challenging reading level, include details about the time period, and can be easily implemented in a unit study which builds character without feeling preachy.

It’s a lot to ask for in a book. I’m selective, but I love starting with Beautiful Feet Books.

►REVIEW AND ENRICHMENT

Then I hear about the fear of gaps when doing unit studies. Having a way to fill in gaps or shore up weaknesses is a great feature of IXL Language Arts Practice, which is for grades K-12.

You probably heard of their math, but their language arts is equally practical.

7. IXL LANGUAGE ARTS PRACTICE

Look at what they offer: IXL makes the world of words come alive with fun visuals and interactive questions. Build great writers through playful skills that pique students’ curiosity about language!

Then this next deal, which is Discovery Education, for grades K-12 is the one I’m about to pull the trigger on because we love media with our unit studies.

8. DISCOVERY EDUCATION

But did you know it’s so much more? It covers every content area.

Look at what you get:

It’s easy to see why homeschoolers rave about Discovery Education Streaming Plus and probably the most extensive and feature-rich educational video streaming service in the world.

But it’s not just a collection of videos that you can watch from beginning to end. This library has been organized into useable video clips, organized and categorized, close-captioned, and supplemented with lesson plans, teaching guides, interactive simulations, images, audio resources, and other resources and materials that you can incorporate into virtually every aspect of your homeschool curriculum.

What a comprehensive way to enrich a unit study with so many features like audio books, self-paced training, images, games and the ability to customize lessons at your fingertips.

When you’ve chosen curriculum which gives your child a solid foundation in language arts and covers the significant areas, you can spend more time planning the fun part of unit studies.

MORE HOMESCHOOL LANGUAGE ARTS RESOURCES

How to Buy It

Products:

►Grammar: Analytical Grammar for grades 4-12.

► Self-Paced Language Arts for all grades: Literature Adventures for Kids

►Literature Guides: Progeny Press Literature Guides, pdf format, grades K-12

►Vocabulary: Wordly Wise 3000

►Composition or Writing: Institute for Excellence in Writing, grades K-12

►Review and Enrichment:

Video Streaming: Discovery Education grades K-12

Language Arts Review: IXL Language Arts Practice, grades K-12

►Reading or Literature:

Living History Literature: Living History literature by Beautiful Feet Books

Also, look at these other homeschool articles to help you.

5 Best Resources to Start a Homeschool Unit Study in a Few Hours, 24 Borderline Genius Ways To Relieve Language Arts Boredom and Unfolding of a Homeschool Unit Study – An Easy Mnemonic { I-SIP}.

Don’t forget to follow BOTH of my Pinterest accounts for AWESOME pins.

Visit Tina Robertson’s profile on Pinterest.

Visit Tinas Dynamic Homeschool ‘s profile on Pinterest.

Fairy Tale Story Stone Ideas & How to Use Them

May 21, 2026 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I’m excited to share these fairy tale story stone ideas with you today. You can use them with preschoolers through elementary to add another layer of creativity to your homeschool day.

In a world filled with screens full of flashing lights and constant stimulation, simple hands-on activities can create some of the most meaningful learning experiences for children.

One timeless activity is the use of story stones.

Fairy Tale Story Stone Ideas & How to Use Them

These small painted rocks spark imagination, encourage storytelling, and help children connect deeply with classic fairy tales and creative play.

Story stones are smooth stones or pebbles decorated with pictures, symbols, characters, or scenes.

Each stone represents part of a story. Children can pick stones randomly or arrange them in a sequence to create their own tale.

Some story stones are designed around traditional fairy tales like Little Red Riding Hood, The Three Little Pigs, or Jack and the Beanstalk, while others feature animals, objects, emotions, or made-believe creatures that inspire original stories.

FAIRY TALE BOOKS FOR KIDS

Next, I rounded up fairy tale books.

We prefer living books when we can find them.

15 Books for Kids Who Love Reading and Being Read To About Fairy Tales, Legends, and Folk Tales

You’ll love adding these books to your home library about fairy tales, legends and folk tales.

The Complete Grimms' Fairy Tales

For over a century, the Grimm brothers' fairy tales have captivated the popular imagination. Their enduring magic and wonder have led to countless adaptations in film, theatre, opera, and animation, firmly establishing them as part of our cultural heritage. Now, in this exquisite leather-bound edition, experience the timeless enchantment of two hundred fairy tales and ten children's legends. Translated from German by Margaret Hunt, these cherished stories, including Cinderella, Hansel and Gretel, Snow White, Rapunzel, and Rumpelstiltskin, offer a treasure trove of imagination for both children and adults. Step into a world of enchantment and embrace the legacy of the Grimm brothers' extraordinary tales.

Fairy Tales Treasury: A Timeless Collection of Favorite and Classic Fairy Tales Stories for Children

Dive into the magical worlds of your most beloved fairytales with this adorable storytime treasure both kiddos and their grown-ups will enjoy. Young readers will be whisked away to 8 wondrous adventures designed to entertain and spark one’s imagination. This deluxe treasure trove of stories celebrates all the well-loved classics including: The Gingerbread Man, Cinderella, Goldilocks and the Three Bears, Little Red Riding Hood, Sleeping Beauty, Snow White, Hansel and Gretel, and The Three Little Pigs. An enchanting collection of favorites boys and girls will love!

Rapunzel

This retelling of a favorite fairy tale, illustrated by award-winning artist Trina Schart Hyman in an edition Publishers Weekly called "spellbinding," has been lovingly restored. Digital technology brings back the clarity and brightness of Hyman's original watercolor paintings to illuminate the terrifying woods, handsome prince, and Rapunzel's lustrous hair, as Hyman originally painted them.

Little Red Riding Hood

Traveling alone, deep in the woods, Elisabeth suspects her basket of treats isn’t the only thing a sly wolf is after . . .Surrounded by an abundance of wildflowers, mushrooms, pinecones, and birds, Elisabeth heads off in her red cloak to visit her ailing grandmother. She's all alone—until she is joined by a wicked wolf, who urges her to stray from her wooded path.Framed with hand-drawn patterns and textured vignettes, Trina Schart Hyman's illustrations add intrigue to the familiar story, filled with subtle detail and depth.With the help of a brave woodsman, Elisabeth and her grandmother are saved—and Little Red Riding Hood learns a valuable lesson.

Snow White: Silver Anniversary Edition

Retells the familiar story of the beautiful young princess, the wicked stepmother, the seven gold-mining little men, and the handsome prince

The Blue Fairy Book

Once upon a time in a certain country there lived a king whose palace was surrounded by a spacious garden. But, though the gardeners were many and the soil was good, this garden yielded neither flowers nor fruits, not even grass or shady trees. The King was in despair about it, when a wise old man said to him: “Your gardeners do not understand their business: but what can you expect of men whose fathers were cobblers and carpenters? How should they have learned to cultivate your garden?” “You are quite right,” cried the King. “Therefore,” continued the old man, “you should send for a gardener whose father and grandfather have been gardeners before him, and very soon your garden will be full of green grass and gay flowers, and you will enjoy its delicious fruit.” So the King sent messengers to every town, village, and hamlet in his dominions, to look for a gardener whose forefathers had been gardeners also, and after forty days one was found. “Come with us and be gardener to the King,” they said to him. “How can I go to the King,” said the gardener, “a poor wretch like me?” “That is of no consequence,” they answered. “Here are new clothes for you and your family.” “But I owe money to several people.” “We will pay your debts,” they said. So the gardener allowed himself to be persuaded, and went away with the messengers, taking his wife and his son with him; and the King, delighted to have found a real gardener, entrusted him with the care of his garden. The man found no difficulty in making the royal garden produce flowers and fruit, and at the end of a year the park was not like the same place, and the King showered gifts upon his new servant.

Tales from Grimm (Fesler-Lampert Minnesota Heritage)

Renowned children’s book author Wanda Gág presents these classic Grimm tales, accompanied by whimsical illustrations. Drawing on her peasant heritage and childlike sense of wonder, Gág translated the fairy tales in a uniquely American vernacular tongue. In Tales from Grimm we find her touch on timeless stories like “Hansel and Gretel,” “The Musicians of Bremen,” “Rapunzel,” and others. No other editions of Grimm’s fairy tales for children can match Gág’s richness of prose and the humor, beauty, and sheer magic of her pictorial interpretation. Best known for her Newbery Honor winner Millions of Cats, Wanda Gág (1893–1946) was a pioneer in children’s book writing, integrating text and illustration. Born in New Ulm, Minnesota, she rose to international acclaim. In recognition of her artistry, she was posthumously awarded the 1958 Lewis Carroll Shelf Award for Millions of Cats and the 1977 Kerlan Award for her body of work.

Chinese Fairy Tales and Legends: A Gift Edition of 73 Enchanting Chinese Folk Stories and Fairy Tales

Chinese folklore is as colourful and captivating as the Arabian Nights or the work of the Brothers Grimm or Hans Christian Andersen, yet the stories themselves remain largely undiscovered in the West. Written with economy and wit, the short, one- or two-page tales exhibit those distinct aspects of the Chinese character and approach to life which derive from the values of Taoism, Confucianism and Buddhism. These include moderation, the value of promises, respect for one's elders, justice and injustice, and the power of wisdom.

Tales of East Africa: (African Folklore Book for Teens and Adults, Illustrated Stories and Literature from Africa)

Translated and transcribed by folklorists and anthropologists in the early 20th century, these stories evoke the distinctive beauty and irresistible humor of East African folklore.• The tales come alive alongside bold, contemporary art in this special illustrated edition.• Each story transports readers to an enthralling world.• Part of the popular Tales series, featuring Tales of Japan, Celtic Tales, and Tales of IndiaTales of East Africa will enthrall fans of fairytales and captivate those interested in East Africa's rich history and culture.Readers will encounter mischievous animals, plucky heroes and heroines, and monsters, and artist Jamilla Okubo pairs each tale with a bold and vibrant illustration.

Once on a Time: An English Fairy Tale For Adults (Annotated)

"Once on a Time" is a delightfully satirical and sophisticated fairy tale by A. A. Milne, inspired in part by his wife and the captivating character of Countess Belvane. Set in the fantastical realms of Euralia and Barodia, this enchanting narrative offers a fresh take on traditional fairy tale tropes through Milne's signature wit and keen sense of humor. The tale follows the charming King Merriwig, the misguided King of Barodia, the enchanting Princess Hyacinth, and the alluring Countess Belvane, among other colorful characters. With its playful storytelling and richly layered narrative, this fairy story captures the hearts and imaginations of discerning adult readers, showcasing Milne's versatility as a writer and his unique ability to craft timeless stories that resonate.

Rumpelstiltskin (Paul Galdone Nursery Classic)

Paul Galdone’s masterful storytelling brings new life to this familiar high-stakes tale of a mysterious little man who makes a devastating deal with the miller’s daughter. Sold to a king who expects her to spin straw into gold, she promises Rumpelstilstkin the most valuable thing of all in exchange for his help, and she must outwit him when he comes to claim his due.

Children will delight in the illustrations, replete with details and rich colors. This new addition to the Folk Tale Classics series is an outstanding addition to any fairy tale collection.

Jack and the Beanstalk (Paul Galdone Nursery Classic)

Young readers are sure to delight in Galdone's version of this classic story, and the lively illustrations and rhythmic storytelling make it perfect for reading aloud with little ones. With a gorgeous cover in keeping with the rest of the Folk Tale Classics series, the story of Jack and his magic bean has never been more irresistible.

The Three Billy Goats Gruff (Paul Galdone Nursery Classic)

Can the three Billy Goats Gruff cross the troll’s bridge without being eaten? Find out in the perfect introduction to the beloved must-have classic by two-time Caldecott Honor-winner Paul Galdone.

The three Billy Goats Gruff are hungry! They want to go over the bridge and up the hillside to a fine meadow full of grass and daisies where they can eat and eat and eat.

But under the bridge lives a troll who's as mean as he is ugly… How will they ever get past him?

An energetic, predictable chorus makes for a wonderful read-aloud of this classic tale.

Don't miss Paul Galdone's favorite board books, including:

The Gingerbread Boy Board Book
Henny Penny Board Book
The Three Little Pigs Board Book

The Gingerbread Boy (Folk Tale Classics) (Paul Galdone Nursery Classic)

“The classic tale of the old couple, with no children of their own, who bake a gingerbread boy to keep them company. Just as the little old woman is about to take him from the oven, he slips away and runs out the door past a cow, a horse, a group of threshers, mowers, etc. All follow in hot pursuit until the gingerbread boy meets up with a wily fox, and ‘at last and at last he went the way of every single gingerbread boy that ever came out of an oven . . . He was all gone!’ A wonderfully frenetic cross-country chase is depicted in Galdone’s broadly humorous color wash drawings. Of the eight editions of this well-known story now in print, this hilarious version is the most delectable.” —School Library Journal, starred

The Three Bears

When three bears leave their house to go for a walk in the wood, leaving their porridge to cool, a young girl named Goldilocks comes calling....and what a mess she makes!

Great Big, Middle-Sized, and Little Wee readers alike will love Paul Galdone's delightful depiction of the original folk tale.

Story stones are easy to make at home using acrylic paint or paint pens.

Because they are tactile and durable, children enjoy handling them, sorting them, and using them during imaginative play.

5 WAYS TO USE YOUR STORY STONES

One of the best things about story stones is their flexibility. They can be used in classrooms, homeschool lessons, libraries, speech therapy sessions, or simply during family story time.

1. RETELLING FAIRY TALES

Choose a familiar fairy tale and create stones featuring the main characters and important story elements. For example, for Goldilocks and the Three Bears, you might include stones with Goldilocks, Papa Bear, Mama Bear, Baby Bear, the cottage, bowls of porridge, chairs, and beds.

Invite children to place the stones in order while retelling the story. This strengthens memory, sequencing skills, and comprehension. Younger children can simply identify characters, while older children can retell the story with greater detail.

2. CREATING ORIGINAL STORIES

Mix stones from different sets together and encourage children to invent their own adventure. Imagine a dragon meeting Cinderella in a forest beside a pirate ship. Children naturally become storytellers when given visual prompts.

This activity develops creativity, language skills, and confidence in self-expression. It also encourages flexible thinking because there is no “right” answer.

3. SUPPORTING EARLY LITERACY

Story stones are excellent tools for developing vocabulary and communication skills. Adults can ask questions such as:

What happens next?
How does the character feel?
What problem does the hero need to solve?
Can you think of a different ending?

These discussions help children build narrative structure, descriptive language, and critical thinking.

4. GROUP STORYTELLING GAMES

In groups (like co-op) or family settings, children can sit in a circle and take turns choosing a stone to continue the story. This encourages listening skills, cooperation, and social interaction. Even shy children often feel more comfortable participating when they have a visual object to guide them.

5. SENSORY AND CALMING ACTIVITIES

Because story stones are smooth and tactile, they can also be calming tools for children who benefit from sensory play. Keeping a basket of story stones in a reading corner creates a quiet invitation for imaginative exploration.

Story stones can be added to read aloud time, placed throughout the yard for your child to find like a treasure hunt that they can then relate as a story to you, or pull random stones from the basket and take turns telling the next part of the story.

MORE STORY STONE IDEAS TO BUILD YOUR COLLECTION

HOW TO MAKE STORY STONES

Your story stones can be created to highlight specific stories like Little Red Riding Hood, Beauty and The Beast, The Three Little Pigs or you can simply use easily identifiable images for your child to recreate their own story from scratch.

I like to include 1-2 “characters”, a place like a castle or toadstool, a protagonist for added drama-a wizard, a dragon, or troll work well.

You will need:

Smooth flat stones
Clear sealant
Paint pens
Acrylic pain/brushes
A basket or bucket to hold your stones
A pencil

I also like to keep a book of fairy tales close by for inspiration.

You can also read it aloud and have your child grab the stone that relates to where you are in your stories.

First, decide what designs you would like to include.

Lightly sketch out the designs on your stones with a pencil, this helps you place and fit it before you begin with paint.

You can paint with a small paintbrush and acrylic paint.

But I find that paint pens work well and give you such good control.Paint the base of your design and allow that to dry, they dry pretty quickly.

Continue painting and adding detail until you are satisfied with your design.

Once fully dry, flip them over and paint more designs on the other side to double your usage.

Here is one side…

And then the other…

To help them last longer, spray both sides with clear sealant or a couple layers of modge podge.

Once the sealer is dry, place them in a bucket or basket, you can also scatter them on your child’s bookshelf as an appealing invitation.

Free and Easy 8 Elements for Poetry Printables

April 22, 2026 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I have a free and easy 8 elements of poetry printables. This free printable about the 8 elements of poetry was created to use for grades 3 to high school.

Yes, language arts require paying attention to detail, but poetry allows a child to do it in a fun and meaningful way. I think poetry should be required in every language arts curriculum.

Poets use specific tools to create meaning, sound, structure and emotion. And these tools are called the elements of poetry.

Free and Easy 8 Elements for Poetry Printables

When children learn elements like theme, imagery, and tone, they begin to read more carefully.

And one of the benefits of teaching my children poetry is that it creates better writers. To this day, all my children love writing.

Poetry allows children more creative expression, and it is an outlet for emotional expression too. Besides, poetry supposed to be read aloud, and it helps children develop the confidence needed to speak aloud.

POETRY RESOURCES TO PAIR WITH THE POETRY PRINTABLE

First, look at some of these books and poetry resources I’ve enjoyed.

Middle to High School Poetry Books & Curriculum

Grab some of these books for your middle to high school students and instill a love of poetry. It doesn't have to be that hard to learn about figurative language.

150 Most Famous Poems: Emily Dickinson, Robert Frost, William Shakespeare, Edgar Allan Poe,

Are you looking for a Poetry Book with an amazing collection of the most famous english poems?

This great English Poetry Anthology contains 150 of the Most Famous Poems of the last centuries. Dating from the Middle Ages to the 20th century, these famous poems remain Masterpieces of English Literature and continue to inspire and influence people all over the world.

Poetry Speaks Who I Am: 100 Poems of Discovery, Inspiration, Independence, and Everything Else for Teens

Poetry Speaks Who I Am is filled with more than 100 remarkable poems for teen boys and girls, making it the perfect addition to any classroom. With poems about who teens are and who they are becoming, they'll find poems that make them laugh, that make them angry, or poems that speak directly to them.

The Art of Poetry

Poetry is a universal art form, and a deep communication of the world around us. The Art of Poetry is an excellent upper school curriculum. It will teach how to read a poem, and introduce students to the many elements and forms of poetry. The book is rich with examples from many sources, including their explication. A biography of each poet is included, along with an audio CD of many of the poems.

The Complete Poetry

Throughout her illustrious career in letters, Maya Angelou gifted, healed, and inspired the world with her words. Now the beauty and spirit of those words live on in this new and complete collection of poetry that reflects and honors the writer’s remarkable life.

Poetry for Young People: Robert Frost (Volume 1)

Use all your senses—not just your eyes—when you read Robert Frost’s remarkable poems. Your own world will quickly melt away as Frost draws you into winter wonderlands, forests, and fields. More than twenty-five of the Pulitzer-Prize winner’s best-loved poems are included, along with stunning illustrations, in this introduction to the work of one of America’s greatest poets.

100 Great Poems for Girls

Girls of all ages will enjoy reading poems catered specifically to them, whether it means envisioning adventures with princesses and witches, or laughing at the antics of mischievous little girls.

Next, look at these other poetry printables and hands-on ideas

MORE POETRY PRINTABLES AND RESOURCES

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

HOW TO GET THE FREE 8 ELEMENTS OF POETRY PRINTABLE

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!

Awesome Features Of Critical Thinking & Free Elementary Inference Cards

December 12, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

How to teach your child the features of critical thinking can be done through natural conversations and interactions. Also, look at my page How To Homeschool Elementary Students Like A Pro.

Too, I have free Think It Through inference booster cards which are perfect for grades 3 to 6. You can grab it below when you enter your email.

But what is critical thinking? How can you explain it to your child? A simple definition works best.

Awesome Features Of Critical Thinking & Free Elementary Inference Cards

For example, you can tell your child that critical thinking means asking good questions based on information. And it means to look below the surface or the obvious to see what makes sense.

During the elementary years is the perfect time to nurture the questions your child has. Welcome questions from your child no matter how strange they may seem.

In addition, keep tools and games handy logic puzzles, books, science kits, maps, story discussion cards and tools to build with. For instance, LEGO and simple machine kits are fun hands-on activities.

HOMESCHOOL CURRICULUM CRITICAL THINKING

Next, look at some laid out curriculum which helps you with specific tips if you want laid out or are struggling with getting your child on board.

7 Critical Thinking Homeschool Curriculum

In homeschool, a critical thinking curriculum can be a standalone, a specific course or workbook just for logic or reasoning. Or it can be integrated into other subjects like history or science.

The Art of Argument Revised Edition Teacher's Edition

Revised for the twentieth anniversary of its original release, the award-winning The Art of Argument is a robust, delightful, and creative text designed to introduce students as young as 7th grade to the foundations of logic and critical thinking.

The Art of Argument will impart to students the skills they need to craft accurate statements and identify the flawed arguments found so frequently in commercials, articles, books, movies, songs, TV shows, everyday discussions, and other media. This revised edition features enhanced explanations, numerous examples of each fallacy, an updated design, and a taxonomic visual guide to the informal fallacies.

This teacher’s edition provides the entire student text as well as robust resources, including additional explanations, supplemental resources and examples, pedagogical suggestions, alerts for common student pitfalls, answers to chapter exercises, and chapter and unit tests with their respective answer keys.

The Basics of Critical Thinking Workbook - Lessons and Activities (Grades 4-9)

This engaging, colorful 152-page book for grades 4-9 (ages 9-15) teaches the most important critical thinking concepts every student should know. Many workbooks claim to teach or develop critical thinking skills, but most of these products never define critical thinking or try to teach the meaning to students. This book defines and teaches critical thinking in a way all students can understand through simple explanations, diagrams, and short, engaging activities. In addition to being a course in critical thinking, the activities in this book can be used to supplement lessons in all subjects.Although this book teaches common argument forms, its primary focus is identifying and evaluating evidence–the very basis of critical thinking. Most propaganda, advertising schemes, legal trickery, and bad science are not the result of complex arguments; they are the result of half-truths and simple arguments. Students who successfully complete this book will have a fundamental set of critical thinking skills they can use their entire lives.

Traditional Logic 1 Set

A logic course for all ages but designed for use as young as 7th grade, Traditional Logic is an in-depth study of the classical syllogism. Along with a basic understanding of the Christian theory of knowledge, the text presents the four kinds of logical statements, the four ways propositions can be opposed, the three ways which they can be equivalent, and the seven rules for the validity of syllogisms. Each chapter explains challenging concepts in clear, concise language.

Grammar Island Student Book: Third Edition

Grammar Island introduces, in a simple fashion, the full four-level grammar analysis of (1) parts of speech, (2) parts of the sentence, (3) phrases, and (4) clauses. Using color to reinforce the lessons, the book offers grammar in child-friendly ways, with an array of strategies to make sophisticated material dynamic and fun. Each page focuses on a single concept, and the teaching approach is to read together with the students, talk about the concepts, ask questions, refer back to the text, and respond to questions before venturing further. This book will delight children just beginning grammar.

Art of Argument: An Introduction to the Informal Fallacies Revised Edition

Middle and high school students will argue (and sometimes quarrel), but they won’t argue well without good training. Students who complete The Art of Argument will learn how to reason with clarity, relevance, and purpose . . . and will have fun along the way! Informal logic is a foundational subject by which other subjects are evaluated, assessed, and learned. Therefore, students' study and mastery of the 28 logical fallacies will provide an essential lifetime framework for filtering good and bad reasoning as well as writing and speaking effectively.

Elementary Science Education: Building Foundations of Scientific Understanding, Vol. II, grades 3-5, 2nd ed.

Elementary Science Education: Building Foundations of Scientific Understanding, Vol. II, grades 3-5, 2nd ed. Science Lesson Plans That Develop Understanding of Scientific Ideas and Concepts in Clear Steps. Building Foundations of Scientific Understanding (BFSU) is a complete K-8 science curriculum in three volumes. This Elementary Science, BFSU is Volume II for grades 3-5. The BFSU science curriculum addresses all the major areas of science: nature of matter (chemistry); life sciences; physical science and technology; and Earth and space science. Lesson plans in each area provide for systematic, step-by-step learning (a learning progression) that leads to a comprehension of basic ideas and concepts fundamental to each area of science. In addition to providing rigorous learning progressions, BFSU guides teachers and homeschoolers in using teaching techniques that have been proven to be most effective in developing students' proficiency in exercising the practices of science.

Mind Benders Level 3 Workbook - Deductive Thinking Skills Puzzles (Grades 3-6)

Mind Benders, our best-selling deductive thinking puzzles, develop logic, reading comprehension, and mental organizational skills that are vital to achieving high grades and top test scores in all subjects. They're also great for developing real-life, problem-solving skills. Methods, your students will learn to carefully analyze each mind Benders puzzle and its clues, identifying logical associations between people, places, and things. The key is to start with the most obvious associations, then deduce less obvious associations until everything finally fits together. Teaching support includes step-by-step instructions and detailed answers. Book levels spiral in difficulty within grade range.

Next, look at a few more critical thinking activities and tools.

MORE BUILD CRITICAL THINKING ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS

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

HOW TO GET THE FREE THINK IT THROUGH INFERENCE BOOSTER CARDS

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

language arts

5 WAYS TO ADD LANGUAGE ARTS TO UNIT STUDIES

1. Pair a living book with your unit study.

LANGUAGE ARTS FOR UNIT STUDIES

2. Use Quick Reference Materials Like BarCharts.

Add Language Arts to Homeschool Unit Studies

3. Use an Ungraded, Multi-Level Resource.

Homeschool Language Arts

4. Play games.

2. Ultimate DIY Homeschool Unit Study Planner

5. Free Curriculum Online.

Mapping Out the Components of Language Arts

►VOCABULARY

1. WORDLY WISE

2. LITERATURE ADVENTURES FOR KIDS

►READING OR LITERATURE

3. PROGENY PRESS LITERATURE GUIDES

HOMESCHOOL LANGUAGE ARTS

►GRAMMAR

4. ANALYTICAL GRAMMAR

►WRITING OR COMPOSITION

Melding Homeschool Language Arts and Unit Studies

5. INSTITUTE FOR EXCELLENCE IN WRITING (IEW)

►READING OR LITERATURE

6. BEAUTIFUL FEET BOOKS (HISTORY & LITERATURE)

►REVIEW AND ENRICHMENT

7. IXL LANGUAGE ARTS PRACTICE

8. DISCOVERY EDUCATION

MORE HOMESCHOOL LANGUAGE ARTS RESOURCES

FAIRY TALE BOOKS FOR KIDS

5 WAYS TO USE YOUR STORY STONES

1. RETELLING FAIRY TALES

2. CREATING ORIGINAL STORIES

3. SUPPORTING EARLY LITERACY

4. GROUP STORYTELLING GAMES

5. SENSORY AND CALMING ACTIVITIES

MORE STORY STONE IDEAS TO BUILD YOUR COLLECTION

HOW TO MAKE STORY STONES

POETRY RESOURCES TO PAIR WITH THE POETRY PRINTABLE

MORE POETRY PRINTABLES AND RESOURCES

HOW TO GET THE FREE 8 ELEMENTS OF POETRY PRINTABLE

HOMESCHOOL CURRICULUM CRITICAL THINKING

MORE BUILD CRITICAL THINKING ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS

HOW TO GET THE FREE THINK IT THROUGH INFERENCE BOOSTER CARDS

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