Autumn Learning & Crockpot Applesauce

Many of you are now at least a week or two into the new school year, and your days are transitioning from summer social calendars to autumn events and scheduling school hours. I know how that feels, with plenty of changes in the works, and the responsibility of teaching your children weighing heavily as you begin this new year. In the midst of it all, if you're like me, you are beginning to pull out the autumn-scented candles, decorations, and a sweatshirt or two. It's molasses cookie and apple pie season, along with time for Crockpot cooking of applesauce and banana bread baking. Busy times, and so many memories to be made!

One of the first things that I learned as a homeschool mom was the importance of connecting learning to the seasons that were going on just outside the window. While I could immerse them in all kinds of learning that was strictly focused on books, memorization, and test-taking, that wasn't what grabbed their attention and left them wanting to know more. Their interest was focused on the outdoors with each change of the season, and that is natural and a great springboard for learning. Captivate them, encourage their curiosity, build up creativity., and connect it all to things that are happening in this season of their lives.

Remember this, please. Work with what is right in front of you, and you'll capture their interest. With topics like autumn, trees, baseball, football, soccer, and digital photography, you won't have to look far to find one topic that they are interested in. Build on that interest. Simple learning simply lasts. Enjoy these days, and go on Autumn Treasures' nature walks each day with your child. So much to see out there, and to see it through the eyes of your child is such a gift!

Blessings,
Amanda B.

P.S. - Wish you could be here in the kitchen with me to smell this delicious applesauce that is simmering in my slow cooker! Here's the recipe I'm using, if you want to try it out at your house: Crock Pot Applesauce (I add a pinch of ground cloves to give it a bit more sparkle!).