Hello, fellow homeschooling parents in Ottawa! As we navigate the exciting journey of educating our children at home, we’re always looking for opportunities that enrich their learning and add extra fun to our routine. From drama classes that stir the imagination to engaging STEM workshops, Ottawa offers many activities to complement your home educational efforts. In this guide, I’ll share some fantastic local events and activities that have caught my eye. Plus, I’ll introduce some innovative review game templates that can spice up your teaching toolkit, making review sessions as enjoyable as they are educational. Let’s explore together what our vibrant community has to offer for our eager learners!
Storytelling and Drama Classes at Shenkman Arts Centre
The Shenkman Arts Centre offers a specialized drama class for homeschoolers aged 5-12 every Thursday from March 21 to May 23. This program is an excellent opportunity for homeschooled children to engage in creative expression and collaborative work, vital aspects of their social and emotional development. Through characterization, imaginative play, and storytelling, children hone their acting skills and develop empathy and communication abilities. The final performance allows students to showcase their creativity and hard work, providing a sense of achievement and boosting their confidence.
Tumblers Gymnastics
Physical education is crucial for children, and Tumblers Gymnastics offers an accessible and fun way for homeschoolers to stay active. The facility hosts drop-in sessions Monday through Friday, where children can participate in gymnastics for an hour at a minimal cost. These sessions are particularly beneficial when outdoor activities are limited during the colder months. Gymnastics helps in developing strength, flexibility, and coordination. It also offers a platform for homeschooled children to socialize and work in a team, enhancing their interpersonal skills in a supportive environment.
Homeschool Swim Lessons by the City of Ottawa
Learning to swim is a life skill and a great way for homeschooled children to get regular physical exercise. The City of Ottawa provides specialized swim lessons for homeschoolers at various recreation centers. These sessions cater to children ages 3 to 12 and are designed to fit into a homeschooling schedule. Swimming promotes cardiovascular health, improves strength and flexibility, teaches safety awareness, and is a skill children can enjoy. The structured lessons also encourage discipline and perseverance.
Ottawa Public Library’s Homeschool Activities
The Ottawa Public Library, particularly the Ruth E. Dickinson branch, is a treasure trove of resources for homeschooling families. Every Wednesday afternoon, it offers special activities for homeschoolers, such as board games, LEGO building, and various hands-on experiences. These sessions provide educational support and encourage a love of reading and learning. Libraries are excellent venues for homeschoolers to explore new subjects and engage with the community.
STEM Workshops through Let’s Talk Science
Let’s Talk Science offers free, curriculum-based workshops at the University of Ottawa and Carleton University, focusing on engaging homeschoolers with practical and theoretical aspects of science. These workshops are ideal for introducing students to scientific concepts through hands-on activities that foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Engaging with real-world scientific problems prepares students for future academic and career pursuits in STEM fields while also sparking a lasting interest in science.
Fun Review Games Online
Adding review game templates to our homeschool days can seriously increase the fun factor. Imagine turning a boring old quiz into a lively game show or a treasure hunt. These templates are all about making learning sticky in a super enjoyable way. They’re perfect for any subject you want to circle back on, ensuring the kids look forward to review time. For example, consider a “Jeopardy!” style template, where questions are categorized by subject, and kids can choose different ‘point values’ based on their confidence in the topic. This format is engaging and allows for a review of materials in a format that kids find exciting and competitive.
Homeschoolers benefit from such games as they make repetitive reviews more dynamic, encouraging better retention and understanding. You can easily find customizable templates online on educational resource websites like Teachers Pay Teachers or even create your own using tools like PowerPoint or Google Slides. These resources offer a variety of templates that you can adapt to fit your specific curriculum needs, making it a perfect fit for any homeschooling session.
Chelsea Forest School
The Chelsea Forest School provides an alternative educational experience emphasizing outdoor play and natural learning. This program suits homeschoolers aged 6-10, offering full-day sessions on exploration and nature-based learning. Outdoor education is critical for developing physical health, environmental awareness, and survival skills. It also encourages curiosity, independence, and a connection to the environment, which are fundamental to holistic education.
