Reviews

Favourite Homeschooling Resources of the Year! | Muslim Homeschool

Favourite homeschool resources

Are you running out of ideas, or have a lack of ideas to begin or challenge your young students? Let us help, we share our favourite homeschooling resources of the year from our Muslim homeschool!

favourite-homeschooling-resources-of-the-year-muslim-homeschool

In Episode 80 of the Raising Mums podcast, I share our favourite homeschool resources of the year!

If you would like to see the resources I mention in this homeschooling podcast episode…

WATCH THIS VIDEO!

https://youtu.be/sRNTfdQk_WA

Muslim Homeschool Resources Mentioned:

Affiliate links included. See Disclaimer for more information.

Get Your FREE Copy of my Ebook “Home Education – What you NEED to know to get started!”: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/ebook

Follow the Raising Mums Podcast: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/podcast-raising-mums

Paint Sticks: https://amzn.to/3x51PBo (UK) https://amzn.to/3Q1gWVd (USA)

Math Links: https://amzn.to/3xgJbrE (UK) https://amzn.to/3x9wlKx (USA)

Counting Rods: https://amzn.to/3GM985i (UK) https://amzn.to/3NPBi1F (USA)

Teaching Year 2 Maths: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/2021/09/maths-for-year-2.html

Graded Steps in Quran Reading: https://amzn.to/3xbL60v (UK) https://amzn.to/3mdmFcQ (USA)

Drumming and Singing Lessons: https://www.instagram.com/pearls.ofislam/

The Wild Robot: https://amzn.to/3MdPG2v (UK) https://amzn.to/3zwy0g3 (USA)

The Chronicles of Narnia: https://amzn.to/3GK1acW (UK) https://amzn.to/3x7rSYt (USA)

A Single Shard: https://amzn.to/3xecoDg (UK) https://amzn.to/38ZWcMY (USA)

A Long Walk to Water: https://amzn.to/3mehzNe (UK) https://amzn.to/3miacEt (USA)

Geology Curriculum: https://sabbathmoodhomeschool.com/downloads/geology-study-guide-form-3-4/

Rocks, Rivers and the Changing Earth: https://amzn.to/3apDj64 (UK) https://amzn.to/3Mu2rX3 (USA)

Through the Magnifying Glass: https://amzn.to/3m9zHIc (UK) https://amzn.to/3x4JN2e (USA)

How much and How Many: https://amzn.to/3zfBS4E (UK) https://amzn.to/3GQiQUu (USA)

Related: 50+ FREE Homeschool Resources you need to know about! HERE: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/2019/12/free-homeschool-resources.html

Related: What makes a Book Un-Islamic? Choosing Books for Muslim Kids HERE: ourmuslimhomeschool.com/2022/04/what-makes-a-book-un-islamic-choosing-books-for-muslim-kids.html

How to Start Homeschooling UK

Launch Your Homeschool is an online course that will hold your hand and walk you through the beginning stages of homeschooling, built upon the framework of the Charlotte Mason philosophy.

I teach you how to choose the right subjects for your homeschool, how to choose the right resources and plan out your year to create a homeschool experience that aligns with the values and beliefs of your family. Whether you are homeschooling in the UK, or elsewhere in the world, this programme will help you give your children an incredible education at home. 

I show you the essential teaching techniques that you’ll need to know to get started. There’s even an entire module on how to manage your time so you can still cook, keep the house tidy and take care of yourself, all whilst homeschooling your children!

Interested?

Launch Your Homeschool enrolment is currently closed.

Doors open July 2022, insha’Allah. 

JOIN THE WAITING LIST  Herehttps://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/courses

Peace and love,

favourite-homeschooling-resources-of-the-year-muslim-homeschool

The Best Muslim Homeschool Resources of 2021

One of the best ways to find good educational resources for your Muslim homeschool, is by getting recommendations from friends. Well we’re friends, right?! In Episode 57 of the Raising Mums podcast, I share my favorite homeschooling resources from the past twelve months.

Muslim Homeschool Resources

This Blogpost may contain affiliate links. Please see Disclaimer for more information.

Consider this podcast episode a year in review. This isn’t just another homeschool curriculum choices list. This podcast episode gives mini-reviews of the resources that really worked for our children!

I share with you the books, curriculum, and activities that we are still loving and using months later!

Muslim Homeschool Resources Mentioned

LAUNCH YOUR HOMESCHOOL WAITING LIST: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/courses

Ramadan Book Club https://launchyourhomeschool.thinkific.com/courses/ramadan-book-club

Singing Lessons with Pearls of Islam: https://www.pearlsofislam.co.uk

Book Log Notebook: https://amzn.to/3EJrIZq (UK)

Scouts: https://www.scouts.org.uk

Artist Study Postcards: https://www.nationalgallery.co.uk

Morning Basket Folder Videohttps://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/2021/07/memorisation-in-our-muslim-homeschool.html

Maths Seeds Video Reviewhttps://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/2021/09/maths-for-year-2.html

River Song by Alison Morgan https://www.abebooks.co.uk/book-search/title/river-song/author/morgan-alison/

Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling: https://amzn.to/32zIddn (U.K.) | https://amzn.to/3HifYhY (U.S.A.)

Hardy Boys Series by Franklin W. Dixon: https://amzn.to/3mLv0VH (U.K.) | https://amzn.to/3mIUbs7 (U.S.A.)

Magic Tree House Series: https://amzn.to/3Hpq7tc (U.K.) | https://amzn.to/3EL3I7T (U.S.A.)

The Dutch House by Ann Patchett: https://amzn.to/3JxWgAH (U.K.)| https://amzn.to/3FGelKA (U.S.A.)

For the Children’s Sake by Susan Schaeffer Macaulay: https://amzn.to/32PTJkI (U.K.) | https://amzn.to/31cmDel (U.S.A.)

Muhammad: Messenger to Mankind by Shaykh Nur al-Din ‘Itr: https://amzn.to/3FGGEZf (U.K.) | https://amzn.to/3FL0TW2 (U.S.A.)

Thank you for taking the time to listen to the show. I hope you got some great ideas for homeschooling resources for your Muslim children.

Please continue supporting the show by giving our Podcast a 5-Star Review! ⭐⭐⭐⭐

CLICK HERE TO REVIEW: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/raising-mums/id1450539640

Peace and Love,

Muslim Homeschool resources

How to Teach Kids to Read with Reading Eggs Books

How to teach kids to read

How do we teach our kids to read? It can be overwhelming to even think about it!

I’m thrilled to be able to introduce you to a reading programme that is simple for parents to follow at home. The Reading Eggs book packs are fun, will engage your children’s imagination, and are highly effective!

How to teach kids to read with reading eggs books

This blogpost is a paid collaboration with Reading Eggs.

We all want our children to read more, and enjoy the rich world of reading books brings! The best way to nurture this enthusiasm for reading in your home, is to start their experience with books in a positive way.

If they enjoy the process of learning to read, they will be eager to pick up books themselves to read in their own time.

That is why I believe the Reading Eggs programme is so effective. I have used their online platform for many years with my elder children. Today, I excited to introduce you to their range of books.

Related: Why Online Learning REALLY works: Reading Eggs Review

Reading Eggs Books

Reading Eggs have an extensive range of educational products to compliment their online programme.

These include:

-Mini Book Packs – each contains 10 readers, a poster, reward stickers and a FREE 14-day Subscription to the Reading Eggs online programme.

-Activity Books – teaching phonics, sight-words and handwriting practice

-Flashcards – durable, allows for self-checking, with full instructions for a variety of games.

Their books and flashcards are well made, with high quality printing and binding. Children love meeting the same wacky characters from the online programme inside the books themselves.

How to teach kids to read, a reading eggs books review
how to teach kids to read, reading eggs books review

How to Teach Kids to Read with this Programme

STEP 1

Complete the lesson on the Reading Eggs award-winning online programme.

STEP 2

Read the Co-odinating book from the Minibook Pack

how to teach kids to read, reading eggs review
how to teach kids to read, reading eggs review

STEP 3

Work on the Co-ordinating page in the Activity book

STEP 4

Track your progress by adding reward stickers to the map poster

STEP 5

Reinforce learning with fun phonics games using their Flashcards.

You’ll Love Reading Eggs Books if…

-You want to provide your children with a solid foundation in literacy.

-You’re a really busy mum, and you are looking for something that is easy to implement and that your children can do a large part of independently.

-Your children enjoy colourful and visually stimulating books.

-You have children aged 3-6, who are just beginning to read.

how to teach kids to read, reading eggs books review

“The great benefit of the entire suite of Reading Eggs components is that children can learn much of the material working independently. This reduces the workload for parents significantly while ensuring that children receive solid educational content.”

Cathy Duffy Reviews
how to teach kids to read, reading eggs review
A closer look inside the Reading Eggs Activity Books
how to teach kids to read, reading eggs review

Using the book sets from Reading Eggs, alongside the online platform, provides a complete learning programme to teach your kids to read. Through this programme your children will learn phonics, sight words, and develop a deep love for reading. insha’Allah.

RELATED: Homeschool Curriculum Choices 1st & 3rd Grade

To learn more about the Reading Eggs Books and educational products VISIT THEIR WEBSITE!

Thank you for stopping by. I’m grateful to have you here.

If you have any questions, pop them for me in the comments below.

You can also find me on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest.

Peace and Love,

how to teach kids to read

Homeschool World Geography + GIVEAWAY

Homeschool World Geography with Archibold Clutterbuck

Let’s talk about a fun and engaging way to teach your children world geography in your homeschool!

Learning more about world geography encourages children to grow into global citizens. As travel and communication become more advanced, our world seems to be becoming smaller! Understanding and appreciating cultural differences between countries breaks down the barriers of prejudice and racial divide, which is necessary in today’s world.

I was recently introduced to an amazing new website called The Worldly Adventures of Archibold Clutterbuck & Friends – yes, it’s a fun as it sounds! In this blog post I’m delighted to share my family’s experience with this Free online learning platform and some of their products.

We’re also hosting a GIVEAWAY! Scroll down to the bottom of the blogpost for more details.

Homeschool World Geography Archibold Clutterbuck

This blogpost was written in collaboration with The Worldly Adventures of Archibold Clutterbuck & Friends. They kindly gifted me the products in this review, and compensated me for my time. 

Why Teach World Geography?

World geography is one of the most fun subject to teach because there are so many ways to approach it. The world is literally your oyster!

World geography is important because children:

  • Learn to locate places on a map/globe
  • Understand cultural and physical differences in those places
  • Understand how human and physical processes have changed the world
  • Appreciate their place in the world
  • Become a better global citizens

Homeschool World Geography with Archibald Clutterbuck

How does Archibald Clutterbuck work?

The Worldly Adventures of Archibold Clutterbuck & Friends is a FREE online learning platform where children can come to learn about world geography and discover more about the world they live in.

The website offers free educational resources that parents can use to facilitate their children’s learning. These include:

  • Worksheets – Crosswords, Word-searches, “Where I’ve been” map, Colouring pages
  • YouTube channel – Numerous animated videos to start your child off on a self-directed learning journey. Videos include, “Top 5 – European Landmarks” and “Top 5 – Waterfalls” and many more.
  • Geographical facts The website offer a plethora of geographical information about the different continents, indigenous people, environments and flags
  • It uses entertaining animated characters and scenes to keep children engaged in their learning.
  • Shop – The website currently stocks a colourful world map in A1 or A2 size, a continents explorer’s journal, and stickers. Their products are high-quality, and compliment the learning material available on their website.

Homeschool World Geography with Archibald Clutterbuck

How can I use it  in my homeschool?

The Worldly Adventures of Archibold Clutterbuck is an open-ended learning resource that encourages self-directed learning. By utilising children’s innate curiosity about the world around them, these resources help children to develops research skills as they answer their own questions through independent research. Through the website, youtube videos, and worksheets, children are taught to be resourceful, looking for the information they need and deciding in which direction they want to take their learning.

Homeschool World Geography with Archibold Clutterbuck

We have used the Archibold Clutterbuck A2 World map and Explorer’s journal to compliment our study of world geography and prompt further exploration!. For example, in our last lesson, the boys began by watching a video about different world festivals on the Archibold Clutterbuck YouTube channel. Then they decided to follow that up, by watching another documentary about the Chinese New Year.

We looked at the A2 World map to identify China, and used the map to discuss its physical characteristics. We also had a look in an old atlas we have at home. Then the boys used the internet to learn how to say “Happy New Year” in Madarin, and wrote it in their Continent Explorer’s journal! It was so much fun, and the boys developed important life skills as they learnt about China and it’s culture.

 

Homeschool world geography Archibold Clutterbuck

Homeschool World Geography Archibold Clutterbuck

By researching and directing their own learning, with the gentle prompting from the Archibold Clutterbuck resources, the children are learning the skills they will need to be independent learners for the rest of their lives.

If you prefer screen-free learning, all the resources in the Archibold Clutterbuck Shop can be used with books and other learning resources you already have at home.

The Explorer’s journal has note-booking pages for the continents, landmarks, flags and much more. It’s a wonderful resource to encourage children to think more deeply about the world around them.

Another lovely idea would be to take the explorer’s journal with you when you travel with the children. They can fill in the sections as they witness the geography firsthand on their family holiday! What a great way to learn!


GIVEAWAY

I  am thrilled to be sharing some beautiful educational resources from The Worldly Adventures of Archibold Clutterbuck and friends for one of my lovely followers.
The winner will win ONE  EXPLORERS COLLECTION. This includes:
  • One beautiful A2 World Map
  • One Explorers Journal
  • Five Clutterbuck Stickers
Archiclutterbuck giveaway
The giveaway will run from Monday 3rd December 2018 until Monday 10th December 2018 at 12pm GMT.

This giveaway is OPEN WORLDWIDE!

All entrants under the age of 18 must have parental permission to enter.

To enter, visit my INSTAGRAM or FACEBOOK accounts, and follow the directions.
I’ll announce the winner on social media and contact them directly.
The winner has 24 hours to respond, otherwise I will have to select another winner.


For more information about The Worldly Adventures of Archibold Clutterbuck, visit their WEBSITE. You can also follow them on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.

Happy adventuring explorers!

Peace and Love,

Living history curriculum islamic

[mailerlite_form form_id=2]

Wild Mammals: Living Books

Wild british mammals living books Charlotte Mason Homeschool

We recently wrapped up our nature study unit on wild mammals, and I realized that it may be useful to share some of the living books we used for it in our homeschool.

We follow the nature study rotation set out by Ambleside Online and it is these books that make up the nature lore, tales and nature study components of that Charlotte Mason education.

For more information on our Homeschool Curriculum Choices, CLICK HERE.

Wild british mammals living books Charlotte Mason Homeschool

This blog-post contains affiliate links. For more information, please see our Disclaimer.

To get a better feel for, and to see inside, these beautiful living books, watch the video below. It’s always useful to see inside  children’s books before you purchase, so please take the time to watch this video.

WATCH THIS VIDEO:

 

Wild Mammal Nature Study: Living Books

Below you will find a list of the books that I recommend for the study of wild mammals. Please note, you do not need to purchase them all!

Rather, just chose the ones that suit your family’s needs.

Britain’s Mammals: A Field Guide to the Mammals of Britain and Ireland

This book is part of the WILDGuides series, and I have been so impressed with the quality of this reference book, that I am looking to buy more in the series!

This reference book lays out very interesting facts about British mammals, alongside detailed scientific diagrams, charts, maps and stunning photography.

The information in this book was so extensive, that we did not need to look in any other reference book during the duration of our nature study unit.

To purchase this book, CLICK ON THE LINKS BELOW:

Amazon UK

Amazon USA

 

Enid Blyton’s Nature Series

These delightful living books are a collection of stories featuring wild animals from the British Isles. The stories capture the child’s imagination and interest, whilst also teaching them important information about the species’ habitat, behaviour and other natural history.

There are three books in this series, and they cover wild animals from all the major animal kingdoms; including mammals, birds, reptiles,fish and amphibians. These books are suitable for children aged 5-8 years old.

Wild british mammals living books Charlotte Mason Homeschool

Country Tales:

Species covered include: Deer, Dormouse, Bat, Mole, Hedgehog, Blackbird, Rats, Stoats, Weasel, Rabbit, Robin, Bullfinch, Kingfisher, Moorhen, Eel, Toad.

Amazon UK

Amazon USA

Hedgerow Tales:

Species covered:Rabbit, Hare, Hedgehog, Swallows, House Martins, Field vole, Water vole, Toad, Frog, Cuckoo

Amazon UK

Amazon USA

Woodland Tales

Species covered: Fox, Badger, Adder, Grass snake, Nuthatch, Woodpecker, Spider, Sparrow, Red squirrel, Grey squirrel,Bumble-bee, Wasp, Otter.

Amazon UK

Amazon USA

Wild british mammals living books Charlotte Mason Homeschool

Collins Animal Lives

This charming living books narrate the story on one specific species per book. They are aimed at older children, aged 8 -12 years old. Through their study, children will become intimately acquainted with the animal, and associated species, and it’s natural history.

There are five books in the series:

Talpa: The Story of a Mole

Amazon UK

Capreolus: The Story of a Roe Deer

Amazon UK

Vulpina: The Story of a Fox

Amazon UK

Amazon USA

Sciurus: The Story of a Grey Squirrel

Amazon UK

Amazon USA

Lutra: The Story of the Otter

Amazon UK

Amazon USA

For Friends in North America

For those of you homeschooling in USA or Canada, you can use the books I have mentioned previously, and make it relevant to your locality. In addition, I would also recommend the following books:

The Burgess Animal Book for Children

This is a collection of stories about animals in North America, and is widely used by many in the Charlotte Mason communities.

Amazon UK

Amazon USA

Wild british mammals living books Charlotte Mason Homeschool

Handbook of Nature Study

This is an extensive collection of lesson plans, and information about the nature found in North America. It covers teaching nature study, animals, plants, and earth and sky.

Amazon UK

Amazon USA

 

Wild british mammals living books Charlotte Mason Homeschool

In addition to these books, I have heard that books by Arabella Buckley are excellent sources of Nature lore, although we have not yet read them ourselves.

I hope this list help you to select the best living books for your children, and makes nature study even more enjoyable for your homeschooling family.

If you have any further recommendations, please share them with us all in the comments below. I’m always looking out for new books!

Also, if you have any questions, please feel free to leave them for me in the comments section below.

Peace and love,

EASY Ramadan Activities for children

Wild british mammals living books Charlotte Mason Homeschool

 

[mailerlite_form form_id=2]

Understood Betsy | Book Review

Understood Betsy Book Review

This book had me crying at almost every chapter!

We have just finished listening to “Understood Betsy” by Dorothy Canfield through our Audible subscription; and it is undoubtedly one of my favorite children’s books EVER! It makes a wonderful family read-aloud and is a part of our Charlotte Mason homeschool curriculum.

This blog post contains affiliate links. Please see Disclaimer for more information.

Understood Betsy Book Review

Understood Betsy Review

“Understood Betsy” is the story of a nervous orphaned girl who is forced to move from her comfortable life in the city, to live on a farm with relatives she has never met.
It deals with some difficult topics, like death, illness, abuse, poverty, in a gentle and sensitive way that will not upset young children. This book has sparked so many worthwhile conversations with my kids as we listened to it in the car.

As we went on this journey with Betsy, I was taught so much about what being a good parent means, and how to let go of control and trust in your children. It taught us the different ways to show love within a family and how to have integrity and good character in tough times…and so much more!

I don’t usually cry in movies or from books, but I cried almost every time we listened to this one..much to the amusement of my boys!

Truly a sign of great children’s book is that it can be enjoyed by adults, as well you children.

Use Audible in your Homeschool

We listened to this amazing work of Children’s literature as an Audiobook on Audible. If you sign up to their 30 day Free-Trial, you can get your first book for FREE; and you can even cancel the trial anytime!

We love using Audiobooks  in our homeschool, especially when we are driving the kids around to all their activities. It’s a fantastic way to make the most of our time in the car and learn on the go!

However, for those of your who would prefer the actual book, this is it!

“Understood Betsy” by Dorothy Canfield is suitable:
As a read-aloud – for children aged 6-12
For independent readers – for ages 9-12.

Seriously, I love this book.  I will be listening to it, and re-reading it in my own time insha’Allah. It is a classic that I hope you will consider for your family.

Peace and Love,

Dr Gemma Elizabeth our muslim homeschool

[mailerlite_form form_id=2]

Supplemental Homeschool Science Curriculum

homeschool science curriculum

Teaching science in your homeschool can be difficult without the right curriculum. You have to consider your child’s learning style, find ways in incorporate hands-on learning, coding, technology, and all within your budget!

Despite these difficulties, my kids love science and so I have been looking for ways to include more supplemental science into our homeschool curriculum without adding to much to my own workload!

We follow the Charlotte Mason philosophy in our homeschool, and so I was looking for something to supplement our existing curriculum.

I’m excited to share what I found!

homeschool science curriculum supplemental

This post is sponsored by Homeschool Buyers Co-op who compensated me for my time. All thoughts and opinions are 100% my own, please see my Disclaimer for details.

Where can I find Science Homeschool Curriculum?

The Homeschool Buyers Co-op has an award-winning selection of science and technology products, including core science curriculum and supplements, coding and programming courses, hands-on experimentation, and more.

They offer Science & Technology curricula with savings up to 95%! Isn’t that incredible?!

homeschool science curriculum

Hands-on Experiments At Home!

Doing hands-on experiments at home can be a challenge for even to most seasoned homeschooler, especially as your children get older.

The Homeschool Buyers Co-op has an impressive range of science curricula specifically for hands-on learning!

I can’t tell you what a relief it was to me as a homeschooling mum to find these resources!

 

What about Technology and Coding?

I don’t know about you, but I don’t remember much about technology frim school, and I’m still not sure I know what coding is! Thank goodness there are homeschool curricula available to teach this for me.

The Homeschool Buyers Co-op offer a range of technology and coding curricula to chose from, all with significant savings too.

Online Homeschool Curriculum

If you’re like me and live outside the U.S. it can sometimes be frustrating to find homeschool curriculum. The great thing about Homeschool Buyers Co-op is that many of the curricula that they offer are online, so you don’t need to pay for International shipping!

Even if you do live in the U.S., an online Science curriculum is a great way to save money without compromising your child’s education.

homeschool science curriculum

So, if like me, you have been worried about how to teach Science in your homeschool, I would encourage to visit the Homeschool Buyers Co-op and see the choices they have on offer.

If you have any questions, please leave them for me in the comment below.

Peace and Love,

Dr Gemma Elizabeth our muslim homeschool

[mailerlite_form form_id=2]

How to “Homeschool” Young Children | Beyond the Academics

how to homeschool young children

Homeschooling young children in the early years is so much more than reading, writing and maths!

When you consider the education of children under six years-old, there are many worthwhile areas to focus on, not just academics.

I am frequently asked the question ,“What should I be doing with my 3/4/5 years old child?”, and this blog-post I will do my best to answer that question for you.

homeschoo young children

This blog post has been written in collaboration with WordUnited who kindly gifted my family their products and compensated me for my time. Please see Disclaimer for more information.

For an introduction from me on this very important topic,

WATCH THIS VIDEO!

Before the age of 7, many experts agree that the child’s mind and spirit is not ready for formal education. However, that does not mean we do nothing at all!

The mind, the heart and the soul of the child are still within our stewardship as parents.

In the Islamic tradition, Ali ibn Abi Talib (R.A.) advises us,

“Play with them for the first seven years (of their life); then teach them for the next seven years; then advise them for the next seven years (and after that).”

Through play, and gentle teaching, young children can be taught many important lessons; lessons that will benefit both their intellect and their spiritual essence.

Although academic subjects have their place in a child’s education, the focus with young children should be on the preservation of their faith, and establishing the foundations necessary for them to grow into righteous and highly moral human beings.

Nurture good morals and spiritual growth

Young children are the the greatest of mimics and they will copy your example. Many people talk about how becoming a parent has been the catalyst for a change within themselves; how they became more practicing in their religion because their children are now watching EVERYTHING they do!

Allow your children to witness you praying, reading Quran, attending classes and let them take part. Try to surround your children with good role-models whenever possible; both young and old.

Another powerful method of encouraging good morals in our children is by using stories; particularly about great and noble people from the past. These stories permeate into the child’s consciousness in a more powerful way than at any other time in their live’s, and will become part o their moral compass in the future.  Not only can this include the Stories the Prophets (R.A.), but  good children’s fiction has a lot to offer too.

children reaidng

Follow their interests

When children are young they seem to be interested in everything! They can become fascinated by the shells at the beach, the bugs in the garden, the vehicles they see on the road, the list goes on and on!

Whatever their interest is, grasp hold of it and pursue it! Read more about it together, create activities around that interest and organize field trips. Not only will your children relish the opportunity to learn more about something they love, but it’s a great way to show them that their passions matter to you and boost their self-confidence.

Establish good habits and routines

Establishing good habits and routines within the home is vital to save you much frustration and heart-ache as they grow older.

Whilst they are young, teach your children good manners and establish routines within the house that will benefit you all in later years.

Examples include good personal hygiene, cleaning up after themselves, no whining or bickering; anything that could lead you to frustration in the future is best dealt with whilst they are young, through loving an gentle means.

“A child must not be left to his human nature.” Vol. 1 p. 102 – Charlotte Mason

” …the child who is not being constantly raised to a higher and higher platform will sink to a lower and lower.” Vol. 1 p. 103 – Charlotte Mason

Spend time outdoors

Try to allow your children to spend some time everyday outdoors in natural environments. Allow them to explore and play freely for as long as you can spare.

Not only is being outside good for their physical health, but also for their spiritual and mental well-being. A child who spends his time collecting rocks, building dens, identifying birds, and such like, will have a mind full of wholesome interests; so full that there will be little room for less desirable interests, such as TV and video games.

“…a love of Nature, implanted so early that it will seem to them hereafter to have been born in them, will enrich their lives with pure interests, absorbing pursuits, health, and good humour.” – Charlotte Mason, Vol. 1 p.71

nature study

Make the most of their memory

In these early years, young children have the most incredible capacity to memorize almost anything with seemingly little effort. Use this time to encourage your children to memorize the Quran. There is no need to have any structured lessons, unless they seem to enjoy it. Instead, just allow them to listen to the Quran in the home whilst they are playing or eating their breakfast, whilst travelling in the car or as they fall asleep. This is such a simple and effective way for young children to learn the Quran, and will set them up well for more formal study in years to come.

The early years are also the best time to learn a foreign language. If you would like to learn more about how to do that, CLICK HERE to read how to do it!

Prepare for formal schooling

The age you begin to prepare them for more structured school-work is up to you. In our home it has been different for each child depending on their development.

Before they start formal schooling you may want to teach them the letters of the alphabet, numbers, and how to write and read simple words.

For this we have enjoyed using the Write-and-Wipe flashcards from WordUnited. There are a variety of sets available including the alphabet, numbers, colours, shapes and actions!

flashcards wordunited flashcards wordunited

Each card shows the word or letter of the alphabet, along with a beautiful high quality photo on one side; whilst on the other side the word or letter is written out, followed by a tracing and hand-writing exercise. I really appreciate how well-made these cards are and I am sure they will last us for many years insha’Allah. All the flash-cards are kept in a magnetically closing box, along with two wipe-able board pens.

These beautiful flashcards introduce children to the alphabet, numbers and simple words, and also give your children the opportunity to learn to write and read in a relaxed and fun manner.

homeschooling young children homeschooling young children

In addition to English, The Word United flashcards are also available in Arabic, French, Spanish and German. To read about how we have used these cards to teach Foreign Language in our homeschool, CLICK HERE.

If you are interested in purchasing the Write-and-Wipe flashcards for your family, visit their website (www.wordunited.com), or visit the Word United Amazon Store .

You also find them on Twitter and Instagram.

how to homeschool young children

Educating young children is so much more than reading, writing and maths; it’s about nurturing their whole beings in alignment with their natural development.

If you have any questions, please leave them for me in the comments section below.

Peace and Love,

Dr Gemma Elizabeth our muslim homeschool

 

[mailerlite_form form_id=3]

| Day in the Life | + Arabic Flashcards GIVEAWAY

Muslim homeschool UK DITL Arabic

Since we began using the Ambleside online homeschool curriculum, our daily routine has changed. We are spending more time reading living books, less time doing worksheets and even more time outdoors!

WATCH THE VIDEO below to see a typical day in our Muslim homeschool.

Also, make sure to scroll down to the bottom of this blog post to enter this month’s GIVEAWAY!

Muslim homeschool UK DITL Arabic

This blog post is part of a sponsored collaboration with Word United, who generously sent me their products to review. Our Muslim Homeschool uses affiliate links in posts and the sidebar. Please see Disclaimer for more information.

 

WATCH THIS VIDEO!

Word United Write and Wipe Flashcards

We are using the write and wipe flashcards from Word United to enriched our homeschool English and foreign language curriculum.

These cards provide a hands-on approach to learning a language that has kept my children engaged and enthusiastic to learn more!

Word United Enlgish flashcards

The Word United flashcards are available in English, Arabic, French, Spanish and German; teaching the alphabet, numbers, colours, shapes and actions in each of these languages.

Each card showcases the word or letter with a beautiful high quality photo on one side; whilst the other side has the word written out, and then space for tracing and hand-writing practice. These high quality cards are kept in a magnetically closing box, along with two wipe-able board pens.

Word United English flashcard

If you would like to learn more about these flashcards, WATCH THE VIDEO above, visit their website (www.wordunited.com), or find them on Twitter and Instagram.

Word United Arabic flashcard

Other Products Featured

Arabic Flashcards
English Flahscards
Abacus
Scythe
How to Read a Book
Home Education: Volume 1
Charlotte Mason Summaries
Primer Free and Treadwell
Matilda
Harry Potter

Wizards of Once
Mr Poppers Penguins
Beatrix Potter Collection
Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe

 

GIVEAWAY

This month, I  am thrilled to be sharing the beautiful Word United Write and Wipe Flashcards with THREE WINNERS!
Each winner can select ONE SET of the Write and Wipe flashcards from WordUnited.com.
The giveaway will run from Saturday 28th November  2017 until Saturday 4th November 2017 at 12am GMT.

This giveaway is OPEN TO UK RESIDENTS ONLY.

All entrants under the age of 18 must have parental permission to enter.

You can enter by following the directions in the Rafflecopter widget posted below (click HERE is you would like to know more about Rafflecopter).
I’ll announce the winners on THIS blog post and contact them directly through email.
The winner has 24 hours to respond, otherwise I will have to select another winner.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

I know it can be fun to see how other families home-educate their children; but more than that, I hope you found something useful in our YouTube video. Whether its a new book to read, or a new idea, I sincerely hope that by sharing these moments of our lives with you, I am helping you and your families in someway.

If you would like to see more of us, and an almost daily look into our homeschooling day, you can follow me on Instagram or Facebook.
In need of your duaas.
Peace and Love,
Our Muslim Homeschool Dr Gemma Elizabeth

January Homeschool Favourites

It’s time to find out what we’ve been enjoying in Our Muslim Homeschool this month!

Welcome back friends! This month I’m excited to share a lot a wonderful books and educational resources that we’ve discovered!

 

January Our Muslim Homeschool favourites

There is also a GIVEAWAY this month. If you’d like to enter ,scroll down to the bottom of this post and enter via the Rafflecopter widget.

Dont forget to watch the accompanying YouTube video, to get a closer look at all the products mentioned in this blogpost.


WATCH THIS VIDEO:


January Homeschool Favourites

Life of Fred Math

I know what you’re thinking …”Not another Maths curriculum Gemma?!?!”
LOL!….I can’t help myself!

In the homeschooling circles, I have been hearing about Life of Fred Math for a long time. It is well known within homeschooling circles as an unconventional method of approaching maths. Life of Fred Math teaches maths in a narrative form, with humorous story line and a distinct lack of practice questions!

It is unlike any other maths book you’ve ever seen!

I’m not sure what it was that finally prompted me to order it, but I’m so glad that I did!

My son absolutely loves. When ask him, “What maths book shall we do today?” he always says, “Life of Fred!”

 

Life of fred homeschool math review

Despite a minimal amount of practice questions and worksheets, the mathematical principles we are covering seem to be sticking in my son’s mind. He loves how each chapter incorporates lots of other interesting facts and information (not always Maths related) and how the maths is put into real-life context.

We have the levels “Apples”, “Jelly-Beans” and “Icecream.” To decide which book is best for your child, visit the Life of Fred website.


If you would like to see inside the books, please
WATCH THIS VIDEO!

For more information about Life of Fred Math, you can visit their website by CLICKING HERE.

Life of Fred can be difficult to find in the UK. I purchased mine from Conquest Books. They are the largest supplier of Homeschool curriculum in the UK, and have loads of other useful curriculum for homeschoolers. To visit there website CLICK HERE.

If you are based in USA, Life of Fred is widely available from most homeschool stores including:
– Life of Fred Website
– Educents
– Amazon

Islamic Behaviour Chart

We have been using this sticker chart from MuslimStickers.com to establish a good morning routine with the children. My family have been using the Islamic Behaviour Chart for 4 weeks now, and the change in my kid’s behaviour in the morning has been phenomenal! No more sluggish and sleepy boys!

No, they’re ready long before I am!
Muslim Islamic behaviour chart homeschool

Having a good morning routine is so important, even as adults, to having a productive day. I have seen that when we are slow to start school in the morning, we never get as much done and the children are less enthusiastic.This reward system has helped us all get ready for the day and begin school by 9am insha’Allah.

Muslim Islamic behaviour chart homeschool
You could use this sticker chart in so many ways! When you recieve it, it is almost completely blank and you can customise it as you wish.
For MORE INFORMATION about the Islamic Behaviour Chart, and see what is included in the pack,
watch the accompanying Youtube video,

Young Explorers Adventures in Mecca

Receiving this book was such a blessing to our home and to our family.
Young Explorers’ Adventures in Makkah is the story of a family’s trip to Mecca for Ummrah. In addition to talking about Hajj and Ummrah, the book also relates their travels around many of the historic sites in the area.
Young explorers adventures in Mecca
Many of you are aware, that the authorities in Saudi are slowly demolishing and covering up sites of Islamic historical significance. Whatever their reasons, there is a risk that knowledge of these places with be lost from the general public.
This wonderful book, shows you where many of these sites can be found. It locates the house of Khadijah (ra) and what it looked like inside. It tells you about the birth place of Prophet Muhammad (saw) and where it can be found. More than half of the book is dedicated to sites around Mecca that hold an importance with the Seerah and our Islamic heritage.
Young explorers adventures in Mecca
Often, when you come across a book about Hajj and Ummrah it will fall into one of two categories. Either it will be very factual, listing what is fard and sunnah etc., but may be a little “dry”. Alternatively, you may find a story book which, although it is very pleasant to read, it provides little information to teach the children from.
This book falls somewhere between the two. Children are captivated by the emotive story-line that runs thoroughout, whilst also learning from the wealth of information it offers about the pilgrimages and the Seerah of Prophet Muhammad (saw).

 

If you are interested in purchasing this book for your family, it is available from Amazon (USA) Amazon (UK) and Wordery.com

For more information, visit their website: Islamopedia.co.uk

I’m so Angry

This is the story of a young boy named Huthayfah, who gets angry with his mother. This touching story draws on the Prophetic advice for the best way to deal with anger.

It is well written and the illustrations are colourful with faceless characters.

 

I'm so angry Sarah Javed Homeschool

If you have a child who struggles to control his or her anger, this book may help you and you child to find ways to cope.

The author, Sarah Javed, is a fellow homeschooler from the U.K. She shares her snippets of her homeschooling life on her Instagram account.

I’m so angry is available from Amazon (USA) and Amazon (UK).

 

Tiny Twinkle Products

Now for something a little different!

I have been aware for sometime that mainstream bath products contain potentially harmful ingredients. Using natural and/or organic products on my children puts my mind at ease.

What a delight it was to be introduced to Tiny Twinkle Products on Instagram who produce Organic, Natural and HALAL bath products for children.

 

Tiny twinkle organic natural halal bath products kids

The products contain only natural ingredients, and  gentle on my children’s skin. They are all labelled with the “halal” sign, and (very importantly…) they smell incredible!!!

The products in their range retail between £7.50-£18.

The business is run by a Ruhana, a primary school teacher and new mum. When I asked her to tell me a little about herself and why she started her business, she said:

“About a year ago I found out I was pregnant. This was a happy and overwhelming experience as I would become a mother for the first time. 
During my pregnancy I started making a list of what I’d need to get for my new arrival. I asked other mothers about their recommendations. I then heard about Johnsons baby products having cancer related chemicals and thought I don’t want to put chemical based products on my baby. So I started researching. 
I first made my own nappy balm with all natural organic ingredients. After my daughter was born I started using this on her, and noticed that she got no nappy rash at all. 
My husband was also impressed and told me to start a business selling organic baby products. Some friends and family had asked about these products as there was a gap in the market for purely organic halal baby products, so I started creating my own brand called ‘Tiny Twinkle’. 
Alhamdulillah, since starting, the response has been amazing.

If you are looking a range of halal, natural bath products for kids, I would recommend Tiny Twinkle.

For more information about their range, and to place an order, visit them on Instagram and Facebook.

GIVEAWAY

It’s Giveway time!!!

 

Muslim Homeschool Giveaway

 

This January I am so happy to be able to share SIX of my favourites with one of you! It’s MASSIVE!!!
I will be giving away:
– I’m So Angry by Sarah Javed – (RRP: £5.99)
– Young Adventure in Makkah – (RRP: £10.05)
1 Islamic Behaviour Chart – (RRP: 4.99)
3 Products from Tiny Twinkle (including the Nappy Balm, Mild Shampoo and Whipped Lotion) – (RRP: £29.50)
The January 2017 Favourites Giveaway will run from Friday 27th January at 12AM, until Friday 3rd February at 12AM GMT.
The giveaway is open Internationally.
All entrants under the age of 18 must have parental permission to enter.
Please aware that if entering from overseas, you may be liable to pay customs tax (or the equivalent), so please check beforehand.
You can enter by following the directions in the Rafflecopter widget posted below (click HERE is you would like to know more about Rafflecopter).
I’ll announce the winners on THIS blog post and contact them directly through email.
The winner has 24 hours to respond, otherwise I will have to select another winner.

I hope you found it useful to see what we’ve been enjoying in our homeschool this month.I’d love to know what your family has been using this January 🙂

Please share in the comments section below insha’Allah.

Make sure you don’t miss the next blog post by Subscribing to my mailing list.

For a daily look into our homeschooling day follow me on InstagramTwitter or Facebook.
In need of your duaas.
Peace and Love xx

You might also like:

Muslim homeschool favourites

 

1 2 3