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when did it happen
Habits, both good and bad, are generational. Children absorb, by osmosis, the vices and virtues of their parents. I'm a reader, as were my parents before me. My husband's family were bibliophiles. Our children grew up reading and being read to. Now in middle school and adulthood, they've continued the reading habit. Are you struggling to find ways to spark a love of reading in your kids? Here are some thoughts. read more
Earth Day, celebrated on April 22, is the new name for the former holiday called Arbor Day. Arbor is the French word for tree. Earth Day is a global celebration that focuses our minds on caring for our earth. Ironically, some Earth Day activities are not really green. Printable for Earth Day, such as coloring pages and worksheets generate more paper waste. I include myself in this indictment because I've written articles for free printables for Earth Day. Here is a truly green lesson plan which is safe for our earth, educational and enjoyable for students of all ages.Free Earth Day Lesson Plan
Lent begins on Ash Wednesday of the Catholic liturgical calendar and continues for 40 days up to Easter. We try to imitate Jesus with prayer, fasting and alms-giving. Here are free printable Stations of the Cross coloring pages to guide lent devotions. Each year during Lent when our family was homeschooling, we drew images, one for each of the Station of the Cross, to use as a guide for prayer and devotion. We hung them at different places in our home or yard. The children would begin each Friday in Lent by following the Stations of the Cross. The older children drew images for the each of the Stations of the Cross, but for younger children I used the Fr. Lovasik coloring book. Here is are several sets of free printable Stations of the Cross. Print a booklet for CCD and religious education classes, Catholic school, homeschooling and family devotions. Free Printable 'Stations of the Cross' Lenten Devotional Booklet
St. Patrick's Day is a feast day, celebrated on March 17, in the Catholic liturgical calendar. Like Valentine's Day, it has also become a major U.S. holiday. Patricus, a Roman Briton was taken from his home as a slave, but returned as a bishop to bring Christianity to Ireland. Speaking as a descendant of Irish immigrants, I'd like to see the day celebrated with fewer green shamrocks and more focus on the religious and cultural significance of the holiday. Here are ways to celebrate the man we call St. Patrick and explore Irish traditions with kids. Celebrating St. Patrick's Day, Irish history with children
Men often put off shopping for Valentine's Day gifts for their sweethearts. At the last minute, they grab chocolates and flowers. Booorrrring!! Here are Valentine gift suggestions for her that will delight. There are two important rules of thumb to remember when shopping for women. First, we can spot a 'quick grab' gift with no thought involved a mile away. Next, we're suckers for a guy who knows us and buys special things he knows we'll like (books by favorite author, signature scent, favorite wine, wall art by favorite artist, poetry that speaks to us personally). Create a personalized book gift basket, reader's corner or spa getaway with books. Best Valentine's Day Gifts for Mothers and Wives