school Archives — Thrifty Mommas Tips

Cut and Paste Back to School Activity Book

Paula — Sun, 06 Sep 2026 14:31:49 +0000

What’s up guys and gals? It is so close to back to school time here. I know you feel it. The moths flying out of your wallet? Yeah, me too. I know my kids are WAY, way past these cut and paste activities but some of your kiddos still love a cute and fun activity book. As a lot of you know it is always my goal to provide affordable activities and fun learning experiences for low cost to you. Skip to the download link below if you just want to download and print. Times are hard and we cannot afford much. I feel your pain. This year back to school shopping will be a hardship for many. That’s why I keep sharing inexpensive ways to save money and free printables for kids. Saving Money is Inherent in Everything I Do While one of mine is entirely done her undergraduate degree (proud broke Mom moment), at least until she decides to pursue a second degree or a Master’s degree, the other should be heading back to school. Should be, I said. Because honestly I hope they have done the work needed to get courses lined up but because of privacy laws here and the fact that said kid is over 20 I have no visibility into that. None. That is a whole other scenario and a story for another time. With FASD on board everything is a bigger deal and harder to access and frankly I expected more from college but here we are. Post contains affiliate links as a service to readers. Purchases made via qualifying links equal a small commission for me which allows me to keep writing and sharing. This cute cut and paste activity encourages enthusiasm around going back to school while also nurturing fine motor skills. Cut and paste can be preschool level and kindergarten as well. My kids always loved crafty opportunities like this. So I hope yours like this back to school cut and paste activity book too. Paper and Printer: Don’t forget these handy supplies you need to make your printables last: Printer paper helps. Yes, it is pretty expensive these days. This Amazon Basics paper is pretty good. Scotch PRO Thermal Laminator is excellent. Highly recommend. And bonus it doesn’t take up much space in your family room or your home office. Use it for some of the printables like the word searches and search and find projects and then hand them out with erasable markers. Reuse over and over. Happy Crafting and Word Games and Back to School! Download Here: As always, please remember these are for your use only. Thanks so much for reading and following copyright rules. Do not reprint or attempt to sell this activity book. It is for personal use only. If you have any other ideas of activities or printables, or even health, travel or parenting topics you’d like to see here, please leave a comment. I will do my best to share helpful content as we all need help from time to time. Cheers to a Positive School Year Ahead! Best of luck on day one and if your child is new and just starting school, get all those photos and remember to take a Kleenex or two with you that day. Here’s another helpful back to school idea if you need it. All About Me Booklet WE found this above All About Me booklet extremely useful when supporting our younger child at school and when introducing them to a new instructor or teacher. We used it at camp a few times too and had positive feedback. If your child is neurodivergent or has any unique needs along with a disability fill one out and hand it to the team or instructor before they start. This can support them on the road to success.

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Learning to Read and Find the Verb Task Cards

Paula — Thu, 03 Sep 2026 13:33:12 +0000

It’s no secret to most of you that I love languages and reading and the written word. Language arts, as they used to call it at my school when I was growing up, was the subject I excelled at and couldn’t get enough of. Even still, I am the person lining up to get all the books at the library. Find the verb task cards is one tool that can help kids identify parts of speech. Are you a Reader Too? My holds list is almost always full of three books at a time and my to read bucket list is always growing as fast as I can cross off the accomplishments. If you are a huge reader of little neighbourhood libraries and thrift stores and a fan of writing and books in general then you probably want to instil that same passion in your children. Finding the parts of speech was always a fun activity as a kid. Also spelling. I love spelling activities and word games and still pride myself on being very good at spelling. So what? Who cares Paula? Well, I know we are all in back to school mode. Some of you are in let’s get the kids started in school and let’s make the new experience and milestone a positive one for all. So after the back to school shopping and the week to get supplies together and resume a routine or begin one that is completely new to you, then comes next steps. Next Steps Might Be… Locating affordable educational tools can be a challenge. Let’s be clear, these days everything is wildly expensive as are tutors. So finding ways to save and use accessible learning tools is actually crucial. I literally told someone the other day every added expense becomes less food in my fridge. That is just a fact at this stage of life and I need to feed people in my home. Here’s a fun activity for you when they are working through some early literacy tasks. Find the verb. I still to this day recall this basic little reminder for nouns and verbs. A noun is a person, place or thing. Still accurate. A verb is an action word. So coach your kids to find the action word in each of these task cards and they will be off to the races in terms of understanding language and also figuring out how to make words into sentences. This is grammar 101. The dog runs on the beach. The lazy brown fox jumped over the log. You probably all recall the ways that we once learned grammar and reading and parts of speech too. Sometimes kids learn more by having some hands on tools like what we used to call flash cards. These Find the verb task cards are basically flash cards. Post may contain affiliate links as a service to readers. I may receive a small commission via purchases made through qualifying links. Download the Free Find the Verb Task Cards here: Use the final page like a worksheet. If your child is old enough to work independently, they can find the number on each card and the identify the verb and print it on the corresponding card. You can then go through them at the end and grade them or just check them for the correct answers. Don’t Miss These Free Activities Too Remember to visit my free printables board if you need help looking for free activities for your kids to do. For a high quality print out of the life cycle content do not miss this downloadable Bee Life Cycle activity and the Alligator Life Cycle Kit is extremely popular over on Pinterest. Other Task Cards I have a math related set of task cards as well if you are interested and working on concepts such as greater than and less than. Basically comparing numbers. There’s a similar Beginning Sounds grammar activity for free too. Enjoy. Supplies Needed Printer paper helps. Yes, it is pretty expensive these days. This Amazon Basics paper is pretty good. Scotch PRO Thermal Laminator is excellent. Highly recommend. And bonus it doesn’t take up much space in your family room or your home office. Use it for some of the printables like the word searches and search and find projects and then hand them out with erasable markers. Reuse over and over. Making Thrifty Choices These days and for the last 6 years at least it has felt like saving money and thrifty living has become a necessary life skill. That’s partly why I keep sharing free activities and free printables for my readers. Number one: people who are my readers tend to love them, pin them for later and return repeatedly for the printables. Number two: we all need simple things to help support raising kids and grandkids. Here’s hoping this helps you as well. Please drop a comment below if you have an idea or a suggestion for something cute and educational you would love to see here in future. I will do my best to add it to the lineup.

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Get Ready with This Back to School Word Search for Kids

Paula — Wed, 05 Aug 2026 12:54:00 +0000

Summer always feels like a whirlwind. Slow it down for half a second with some fun transition activities like this Back to School Word Search for Kids. Between the final trips to the beach and the hunt for the perfect backpack, the transition back to a school routine can be a jolt for students and parents alike. Not going to lie, I used to get panicky the closer we got to the end of the summer. This post contains affiliate links as a service to readers. I receive a small commission via qualifying links. Summer vibes are some of my favourite and I know I am not alone. Back to School is a mad race of activity and yes it is back to routine, which is welcome for many people, but also September is a lot. The forms alone are crazy in that first couple of weeks. AND, there’s a huge cost to back to school shopping. Recognizing that the cost of living is through the roof and few of us can afford extras, I like to share easy low cost and sometimes free opportunities for families. These Back to School word search is one of those freebies that I am sharing with you in mind. Whether you are looking for a quiet morning activity to settle those first-day jitters or a fun way to get kids back into learning mode, a themed word game or a puzzle is the perfect low-stress solution. Ease Into the School Mindset After weeks of sun and play, jumping straight into heavy textbooks can feel daunting. This Back to School Word Search for kids is designed to bridge that gap. It focuses on familiar classroom vocabulary. Think notebooks, recess, and library to help younger students re-engage with school themes in a way that feels like a game rather than an assignment. For teachers, this is an excellent morning activity. Having a stack of these on desks as students arrive on the first day gives them something immediate and engaging to focus on. And you can get a quick moment of peace while managing the inevitable chaos of new cubby assignments and attendance. For parents, it’s a great addition to a lunchbox surprise or a rainy afternoon activity during the final week of August. Benefits Beyond the Fun While word searches are undeniably entertaining, they also offer some sneaky educational benefits too. Download Your Free Printable Ready to get started? Download and print this word search in just a few clicks. It’s designed to be clear and easy to read, making it accessible for elementary-aged children. Pro-Tip: If you want to make it a challenge, set a timer and see who can find all the words first. Or have your kids circle the words using different coloured highlighters to make it colourful. Don’t forget the paper and supplies Don’t forget to order paper – HP Printer Paper and also be sure to use a good printer. This Epson Eco Tank Printer is amazing. It saves ink like nobody’s business. Post contains affiliate links. I receive a small commission when a purchase is made. Grab your favourite pencils, find a cozy spot, and let’s make this the best school year yet!

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Back to School Word Scramble

Paula — Thu, 01 Aug 2024 00:29:00 +0000

As the summer days start to get shorter and the time slips by parents everywhere are happily leaning back into the start off a new school year. The list of things to do is pretty long at this time of year, but the return to routine can be worth it. Post may contain affiliate links. Qualifying purchases mean I make a small commission. Looking for some things to keep them busy or give you a moment of peace and quiet off the screens? This Back to School Word Scramble is easy and fun. Not a bad way to spend a half an hour or maybe less if you are inclined to want to print it out and enjoy. Word games can in fact help keep your brain sharp as you age so whether you are a kid or an adult these activities are enjoyable and worthwhile. Products Needed: Don’t forget to order paper – HP Printer Paper and also be sure to use a good printer. This Epson Eco Tank Printer is amazing. It saves ink like nobody’s business. Post contains affiliate links. I receive a small commission when a purchase is made. School Days are Afoot What grade are your kids going into this year? Mine are well passed the elementary and high school years now, but it wasn’t so long ago when we were rounding up the back to school supplies and going back to school shopping. Don’t forget to Pin this Back to School Word Scramble for later. Download the Word Game here or right click on the images above. In addition to this new Back to School Word Scramble, I have several other Back to school posts, activities and school games available. Don’t miss this Back to School Word Search and Activity Book. Have Fun!! Before I forget, here’s the Back to School scramble Answer Key More Printables Remember to visit my free printables board if you need help looking for free activities for your kids to do. For a high quality print out of the life cycle content do not miss this downloadable Bee Life Cycle activity and you should be off to the races. Don’t forget to check out my content here too – Free Printables on Pinterest.

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Homeschool Awards Certificates and Ribbons

Paula — Mon, 29 May 2023 14:18:00 +0000

This time of year everyone is gearing up for the end of the school season. That doesn’t change just because you are homeschooling. Everyone who goes to school deserves to celebrate their accomplishments at the end of the academic year. That’s why these Homeschool Awards Certificates and Ribbons are perfect for you right now. Save them, print them, share them and enjoy! Everyone deserves an award this year and always. Bring on the Summer After eight to nine months of solid working, kids of all ages deserve a break. Parents too. There’s a lot to cover in a short time and sometimes not a lot of time for reflection. t’s not uncommon for schools to have endless ceremonies, field trips, assemblies and dress up themed days as the school year winds down. Of course, at this time of year as the weather improves, many homeschool groups schedule picnics and events to socialize too. No Matter Where You School There’s always a reason to reflect on a job well done. So, use these Homeschool awards certificates and ribbons to do just that. There’s a DIY page templated here so that you can also make it into whatever you want. Personalize the awards as you see fit.

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Why I am Celebrating Finishing the Pandemic School Year

Paula — Sun, 25 Jul 2021 19:15:45 +0000

Kudos to all the university, college and high school kids who finished this challenging pandemic school year. Here’s why I am celebrating that achievement. Pandemic learning was a huge challenge this year as was school in general. Socially, I feel like we haven’t given our kids enough credit for getting through the volatile and discombobulating pandemic school year they just had. Imagine being a teen or even an elementary child adapting to all of the stress and change that’s been thrown at them this year. If anything, I am surprised so many kept going to the very end of June. What I am Celebrating Last month, my oldest daughter finished her first year of university done during a pandemic and my youngest finished grade eleven. I know many of you parents know what I mean when I say well that was a year like no other. This past school year was chaos to say the least. Many high school students went back and forth all year. Two to three months in class and then boom back to at home remote learning through no fault of their own. Then when Covid-19 numbers dipped again some slid right back into the classrooms where smaller numbers of kids had been in cohorts. Finally, back to school and whoops suddenly Wave 3 of the pandemic hit in Ontario. The Only Constant Was Disruption The pandemic school year was nothing if not disruptive. At times, we nearly gave up here on high school because the pandemic school year was more than uphill especially since all supports vanished and suddenly I was basically doing the IEP here while juggling a full time job too. Ontario students of all ages had a year like no other. Parents did too. I know how hard that was and think it’s worth noting. Parents and students made the greatest sacrifices this academic year. But it’s over. Now let’s stay safe this summer, wear masks and get your second vaccines so school can return to some version of normal in September. We all owe that to kids and families in Ontario. For my University Student What a first year it was! She was literally on campus three times, two of those times were in the fall of 2020 for a social distancing paint night with masks on, to pick up something from the campus bookstore and join a study session. She hasn’t physically been on campus at all in 2021. Learning from home started as a huge adjustment and it was lonely at first but over time and by second semester it was clear she found a rhythm. Our University Year While people often took jabs at college and university students for spreading the virus, and there were numerous outbreaks in residences at Western University, this was not our experience. I don’t think a lot of students actually fell into the partying irresponsible group. The actual lived experience of many university and college students was pretty hobbit like and anxiety provoking. A lot, like Payton, were home learning all of their subjects from a corner of their bedrooms all year. Some students made it physically on campus two to three times to buy books or get their student activity card printed. Anxious Moments Anxiety impacted sleeping. My oldest worried often. So working on school all day in her bedroom was not conducive to restful sleep at night. And Yet They Adapted While it took several months for Payton to find her footing, she eventually did. Pandemic learning was less than ideal, but still she did it. By semester two I noticed a change mentally. She was reluctant and a bit depressed in September. As in, this is not what I signed up for but by January she was in the groove. Honestly, I was proud that she was making the best of it. Meanwhile in High School Here in our school district and province they segmented students into cohorts for consistency and size of classes. My youngest went to school some weeks for a whole two days, four hours each day. Ridiculous. For the rest of the week, classes occurred on Microsoft Teams or via Zoom style remote learning. By the end of the year they had given up. So, I decided we could drop the last course entirely. For a kid who loves sports, conducting all the sports at home online was a huge hurdle. It just wasn’t going to end well. My kiddo with FASD is a black and white thinker, and that’s part of the disability. So, doing sports without the team portion of it in person was a non starter. But We Did It So ultimately while both experiences were very different, we did it. We made it through the school year. Some of us emerged a little stronger and wiser and maybe more resilient. Some parents lost jobs as a result of the need to teach. Believe me, this is nothing I would wish on any parent or student. But here’s to making it through! ONWARDS to the Fall I am hopeful September is an entirely different and consistent school experience. Our kids deserve it and need it. Frankly, we do too.

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Blended Learning – How is In Person High School Right Now?

Paula — Mon, 05 Oct 2020 12:56:00 +0000

From Paula – Here’s what blended learning looks like to my high school student. We made the choice to send Ainsley back to school in person this Fall. She has been back for a bit more than two weeks and is in grade eleven. Here’s how it’s going so far. These are her words. On Blended Learning and High School Fall 2020 By Ainsley Schuck So, here’s the thing. I am going to school during Covid-19 in person. My days go like this: two days in school and three days at home, and the next week is three days in class and two at home. The term for this is blended learning. Not Your Average School Year Listen, nobody was more surprised than me when Ontario schools abruptly closed in March due to Coronavirus. Also, I was shocked that I missed school, because typically I am not a huge fan. So when the Ontario government announced we’d return to school I was a bit worried but mostly happy to hear we’d be going back. New School Terms This school year is not your average school year and suddenly we have all these new terms to use too: blended learning, hybrid, cohort, synchronous and asynchronous. A few times everyone here in my home has been frustrated and said: I don’t even know what asynchronous means. You get my point. It is a weird year to be in high school in person. Back to School In Person or Online School? I know many parents and students were divided over whether to go back to school in person or do school online. A few people I know, other teens with an IEP or a learning disability felt like there was really only one option. Many of us need that in person face time with teachers. Getting My Schedule We all need to check the class D2L site often and check our emails too. Communication has been pretty good so far, but it took forever to get my schedule at the beginning of the semester/ Octomester and that was super frustrating. Here’s What I Like About Blended Learning So Far It may seem like a lot of work crammed into a very short period of time. It is, but honestly I am adjusting and I kind of like some parts of the blended learning classroom. The Remote Days I like having days at home, because the remote days kind of feel like a mental health day for me. If you working at home, I still log in at 8 a.m. for attendance, so I am up at a good time. In fact, I actually feel more comfortable at home and can wear what I want so, I take advantage of that on remote learning days during this blended learning school year. So, for me the blended approach is working right now. I get to choose where I work at home basically. At School Days In my classroom, there are no windows right now, because we are in the computer lab. The computers have been removed but, it feels kind of like a prison with no windows and it’s a bit depressing. So, by the end of my school day, I am ready to get out of there. Wearing Masks in the Classroom I thought wearing masks at school might be hard but it’s not. We are just sitting all day, so to be honest it is not as hard as I thought. It’s not like we are sweating, running around or racing from class to class. Mask Choices I am a little anxious about what mask I wear to school and I feel like sometimes that’s the thing that could trigger bullying now. Your choice of mask is up to you as long as they cover your nose and mouth well. I sometimes wear Harry Potter or Pride masks because I like them. They are comfortable and they fit well. Little Social Interaction They spent a lot of time on the first day back talking about safety protocol. If you don’t wear a mask, you will get a verbal warning to get your mask on. You get one warning and, by the second warning, you go home for the day. If you actually get a third warning, you get suspended. We don’t talk much at school. I am better able to focus because there’s less group work and fewer distractions right now while at school doing blended learning. If everyone was talking at once, I feel like people would be removing their masks. Less talking equals less headaches for me and better focusing. Those are two things I struggle with normally and have to often leave school in normal years due to extreme noise and headaches. That’s a sensory thing. Right now, the sensory stuff at school seems to be a bit better. I Leave at Lunch When I come home at lunch time, the work is manageable. We go through until lunch and then we have study hall. Students stay for study hall if they take the bus home or need extra help. Really, unless you are reading, most of the work is getting done in the class. When I have math in a few months then I might need to remain for study hall. Right now though I come home and read or tackle homework questions. Sometimes that looks like my Mom helping me get through the books because we have to read them quickly, in a short time. The Class Numbers The number of kids in the class is much better actually. My teacher is amazing this year and relates well to the class. There are 16 students in my cohort and that seems reasonable. Our class is split. My cohort goes to school every Thursday and Friday and every other Wednesday, for instance, while the other group logs in and does work at home. Then we flip. Having One Classroom a Day for Five Weeks I actually love having just one class a day. In a regular day, before the pandemic we would have four classes each semester and that can be super stressful. That’s a lot of work to juggle. If we had four courses during a pandemic, and needed to switch classrooms several times, we would be super anxious moving around the school. We wouldn’t necessarily know what the teacher’s bubble was either, so this works better in my opinion. Kind of glad I am in one spot for the day when at school. Seems to Be Easier For Me Not having to focus on four subjects at once is kind of a good thing. I suck at multi-tasking, so in a usual year having four subjects at once is a lot for me. If I listen to music and work, I can’t do both, for instance. It’s the ADHD, I think. Fewer Distractions Right Now There are fewer distractions right now and less group work, so I feel like I have the right amount of time at school. This sounds ridiculous, because the speed of the courses is like summer school, so I realize that makes no sense as each subject is going so much faster than it used to. But I only have to focus on one subject – right now that is English and I love English. Easier to Juggle Assignments Sometimes, during a typical year, I forget to do assignments because of the volume of assignments and all the planning required. I have FASD and ADHD and an IEP and sometimes school is hard work in a very busy, noisy environment. Less to Forget Right now, there’s nothing else to forget about. There’s only one assignment at a time for the most part and one book/ topic to study, so you have hours upon hours to work on that topic each day. A Few Kooky Adjustments There’s no leaving and going to the bathroom to hang out with friends because if you do that, then you get paged to head back to class. “Jessica, YOUR bathroom break is over. Please return to your class!” Without getting too personal or gross, I am just going to say I don’t care really because I never go to the washroom at school. In the pre-pandemic days too many people vaped or were just hanging out in there. No, thanks. How it Feels at Times It feels a little like a maximum-security prison at times, but for the most part it is working. Blended Learning 2020 Looking ahead, I feel like this year I will have better grades at each individual subject. Blended learning doesn’t look exactly as we thought it would but there are a lot of reasons I am liking it this year so far.

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Back to School Activity Book – 30 + Pages to Get Them Excited About School Now

Paula — Tue, 11 Aug 2020 01:13:00 +0000

Let me just note right off the bat that I support you and trust you all to make the right decisions for your family. This Back to School Activity Book is meant for you to share with your kids. Oh, believe me, I know there’s never been a year that is more fraught with concern than this one. But Back to School season is coming, no matter what you think or where you stand on the back to school protocol for your region. I know it’s anxiety provoking. But, that said, it’s also extremely important not to convey too much of that to kids. That’s why I wanted to share this adorable Back to School Activity Book with you all right now. Get them excited about the prospect of going back to school, whether that is in person, or at home remote learning. If you are a homeschooler then these games will be fun for you all too. Word Games for Back to School Listen, I love these adorable little word games and mazes. Even the Dot to Dots are fun. Your kids will go nuts for this Back to School Activity Book. This will also keep them busy for hours! Here is a small example of the kinds of word games they can expect when you download this 30 PLUS page activity book for Back to School. There are Crosswords, Dot to Dots, Find the Differences and even a Word Search or Two included. Also, as you can see here there’s a Snakes and Ladders style game and so much more! Back to school games are a great way to get them excited about the idea of going back. I mean summer has to end some time. To be honest, part of me cannot wait for school to resume. This year, has been way too much because of the pandemic and I am ready for a little routine and structure to take over my days. It’s Been a Tough Year! I know we are not all on the same page this year. The pandemic has made us all stressed out and worried for our kids and our health. But, I just want to tell you here and now that I love you and respect you all. I support your decision whether that is keeping them home to learn remotely or sending them back to be physically in a classroom. Parents, I know you have had a rough time and it has been a super stressful few months. But, bring on the Back to School Activity Book and the back to school word searches and games too. Every little bit counts in getting them back to school and enthused. That’s my theory anyways. How to Download The Games Don’t worry, I know life is hard enough. So, downloading this is super simple. Let me know if you have any issues. Most of these Puzzle Time Games have the answer key right alongside the puzzles so you can get the kids to cover them up while they are doing them and then reveal the answers if you get stuck. Back to School Activity Book Have Fun!! Don’t forget to check out my content here too – Free Printables on Pinterest.

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Study the People of Ancient Rome – An Educational Booklet

Paula — Thu, 14 May 2020 14:09:00 +0000

True story. I took Latin all the way through high school. I remembered that just this week when my daughter found an old report card of mine. So Ancient Rome was a topic I learned about routinely and it genuinely captured my interest. The stories about characters that were pivotal to the formation of one of there world’s greatest ancient civilizations are truly captivating. There are very few ancient civilizations that are quite so fascinating. The legends and the myths about Ancient Rome make for incredible stories, sometimes gory and unbelievable but still entertaining. As legend has it, Ancient Rome was formed in 753 BC. by twins Romulus and Remus, sons of the God of War, Mars. Left to drown in a basket on the Tiber by a king of nearby Alba Longa and rescued by a she-wolf, the twins defeated the king and founded their own city on the river’s banks. Rome. But these two twins did not get along and Romulus killed Remus so that, Romulus became the first king of Rome. The city of Rome was named for him, of course. Ancient Rome Facts Rome is the capital of Italy Founded along the Tiber River, Rome was geographically in the right spot because the river permitted trade and commerce. The mountain ranges around Rome were natural barriers to enemies. This protected the city and its people. Ruled by Kings for 240 years. Roman Politics Ruled by kings for 240 years, initially Rome was a Monarchy and it was governed by a King, until the people overthrew the first government to form a republic. Next came Julius Caesar, who was loved by the people and who wrote about his heroic battles. After a civil war which broke out because the senate felt threatened by his power, Julius Caesar won. After Caesar was killed, a second civil war broke out and Augustus, (Octavian) Julius Caesar’s son won that war to become Emperor. The city ushered in a period of peace and it was known as an empire. Romans conquered many surrounding civilizations including Britannia, now known as England. War, and the Roman army, was big business and in fact the Roman Army conquered much of the Mediterranean. Studying History in the Early Grades? Ancient Rome is well known for its contributions to architecture. Many of their epic structures still exists and are well known tourist attractions. Their engineers created orderly cities and they built bridges, coliseums, schools and spas, as well as significant entertainment and sporting structures. Water in Rome In fact, Ancient Rome also had a series of aqueducts and they also used sewers. They created roads and concrete paving the way literally for a system of roadways that is basically what we still use. Ancient Romans spoke Latin and that language has been used for hundreds of years in scientific classifications. Little known fact – they also invented socks. Download this Ancient Rome Booklet Quick reminder that you can easily use this booklet for educational purposes for your kids, or your class. Please do not reprint on another web site though as this is protected by copyright as is all of the content here on Thrifty Mommas Tips. If you liked this, then you might also enjoy – England Colouring and Printing Book and Germany Educational Colouring and Printing Book Also, I loved this video on Youtube about Teenage Life in Ancient Rome.

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What Does Your Child Need to Know About Bus Safety?

Paula — Mon, 12 Aug 2019 14:58:25 +0000

If your child is starting school soon and they are bused then you need to teach them how to ride the bus safely. Both of my kids rode the bus for years and we know a thing or two about busing. I will never forget how nervous I was that first year my daughter started riding the bus to her French immersion school. Because it was a French immersion school out of our neighbourhood all the kids were bused. I had so many bus safety concerns. Ride the Bus Safely In Junior Kindergarten we walked down the street to the neighbourhood school. But when she was six actually she made the switch to French immersion and she was so excited about taking the bus. When Bus Safety is a Concern I was, in fact, less excited. I was worried about how well she’d do and whether she’d remember which stop to get out at. In the end she LOVED riding the bus and rarely wanted to get off at end of the afternoon. Can never ever forget that time in Senior Kindergarten when she met me at the front of the bus yelling: “Mom I am going to Aliyaah’s house. See you later.” My Own Experience My cheeky six-year-old thought play dates happened on school nights and that she was in charge of them. Also she apparently thought the bus driver was her personal chauffeur. LOL. Um, no that’s not in the bus safety rules. Our Bus Drivers Have Been Exceptional Over the years we have had some of the most incredible bus drivers. We had one from grade 6 to 8 who was more of a friend than anything and worth his weight in gold! He showed up at my home one Saturday with my iPad that Ainsley had borrowed and left sitting on the bus. He also always waited when we were running a few moments late. Here’s hoping you get a bus driver that’s just as amazing! That definitely helps kids to learn how to ride the bus safely. Starting school is an important time for your three-year old or four-year-old. After choosing an outfit and strapping on their new backpack, he or she will feel so mature venturing off to a day of learning and play. If they are riding the bus, then you may want to rehearse what that looks like and let them know they will be safe. Trust me, this is as much for you as it is for him or her. This new adventure can cause both excitement and fear in your preschooler and bring to the forefront your own safety concerns. Here are tips to help your child reach their destination safely and relieve a bit of your own anxiety regarding riding the bus safely. Be Aware of Danger Zones Around the Bus Teach your preschooler the Giant Step rules to help them understand the danger zones around the bus. To cross in front, you and your child should leave ten feet (five giant steps) between you and the bus. To approach the bus from the curb, leave space enough for three giant steps (about six feet). Never ever walk behind the bus. That is vital to riding the bus safely! If your preschooler can touch the bus, they are too close. Children should never play around or close to the vehicle. Only enter the danger zones if he or she has the driver’s permission. Rules for Getting on the Bus Arrive a little early so that you and your child aren’t rushed. Showing up late for the bus can cause you to be careless and disregard the safety rules. Teach your child to never run to or from the bus. Tell your child to wait for the driver’s permission before getting on the bus. Encourage your child to sit facing the driver, feet in front and on the floor. For safety reasons – such as possible emergency evacuations – the driver will need to keep the aisle clear at all times. Departing the Bus Safely Tell your child to hold onto the handrail. Little legs may find it challenging to maneuver down the large steps. No pushing or shoving. As with anywhere, good manners and proper conduct are expected Walk, don’t run, in the aisle. If your child drops something within any of the danger zones, make sure they leave it behind. Never stop. Return to the bus in the appropriate manner and let the bus driver know. Help your child cross the street and safely exit the danger zone areas around the bus. School and Bus Safety Protocol Every school my kids ever attended ran numerous bus safety assemblies and activities. So, don’t sweat it if you are unsure of all the bus safety rules. The school your child attends will often help educate the kids and staff regarding expectations and how to ride the bus safely. Remember Rules on the Bus Finally, your child needs to know about the expectations on the bus. For instance, always stay seated. No yelling. No bullying other kids and no standing ahead of the line by the driver. He or she will definitely remind all the children of that. Ride the Bus Safely and Get Home Happy The bus can be a fun part of the day after school, but only when safety rules are followed regularly.

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