First Day of School

We finally got school started this year after pushing it back a few times (because I wasn't ready for summer to be over!)

I am happy to say that the first day was a success! I love when things run smoothly. We got our basics done in the morning (math, spelling, reading, writing, Bible, etc.) and then had some fun!

In our Tapestry of Grace curriculum this year we are starting with Y2U3 which begins at early American History; we are excited to finally be learning about our country after spending 2 years across the Atlantic in Europe, Asia and Africa as we studied Ancient, Medieval, Renaissance and Reformation history.

To celebrate, we made maps of the United States. But these were not just any maps; they were not made of paper and they were not even salt maps.

In the past, as we began a unit, we made salt dough maps, (see here and here), which are great for creating topography with mountains, rivers, lakes, and other geographical features. But, this time I decided to go more for the fun factor and so we made our maps from sugar cookie dough! I made the dough the night before, then divided it and gave some to each child on parchment paper. With my sister's help, we rolled out the dough and then let the kids cut and form their giant cookies to the shape of the United States.

After we cooked the maps, the kids decorated them with frosting and sprinkles.

The finished products:

The best part was that they got to eat them when they were done(or at least part of them - they were huge!)

The boys laughed about eating the United States: quote - "wow, Florida tastes delicious!" and 3 year old Rose walked around all day saying "that is the United States" and "California is right here" (as she correctly pointed it out on the map!) So, even in the fun, someone may have learned something!

I think the cookie dough maps were a big hit and a great way to celebrate our first day of school!