In this episode, Sonya welcomes back familiar guest hosts Denise and Della to discuss the importance of play in the context of homeschooling, particularly in math education. They delve into the distinction between natural play and play-based learning, and how incorporating playful activities can make learning deeper and less stressful for children. The conversation covers practical advice on bringing a sense of curiosity and exploration into the educational setting, addressing both the power dynamics between adults and children and the potential for increased social connection through playful learning. Specific anecdotes, games, and exercises such as the substitution game, reciprocal fractions, and using Cuisenaire rods are shared to illustrate how play can be integrated into daily lessons. The hosts also provide insights on lesson planning within a flexible framework and emphasize the value of parents participating in learning through play alongside their children. Mentioned in this podcast:

Substitution Game

Find Sonya Post Math Mom

learningwellathome.com⁠, ⁠Academy⁠,⁠ Facebook⁠, ⁠Instagram⁠

Email: ⁠sonya@sonyapostmathmom.com

Find Denise Gaskins at Tabletop Acadmy Press

denisegaskins.com⁠, ⁠Books & More Books⁠, ⁠Facebook⁠, ⁠Instagram⁠

Find Della Parker at the Beauty of Playthebeautyofplay.com, tiktok, instagram

In this episode of the Notice and Wonder podcast, host Sonya Post delves into the concept of learning, exploring what it truly means beyond merely regurgitating facts. She introduces listeners to Gattegno's Four Stages of Learning, a framework that helps guide children through their educational journey.

1. Stage One: Realization - This stage involves basic awareness and curiosity. It's marked by the initial spark of interest in something new. Sonya emphasizes the importance of nurturing this curiosity by providing opportunities and resources for exploration.

2. Stage Two: Exploration and Experimentation - True learning begins in this stage, characterized by mistakes and trial and error. Sonya discusses how mistakes are essential for developing problem-solving skills and encourages parents to provide a safe space for these learning experiences.

3. Stage Three: Transition - At this stage, children start to perform new skills with concentration, which gradually becomes automatic with practice. Parents and teachers are advised to avoid constant repetition, allowing children to focus and think independently.

4. Stage Four: Transfer - The final stage is when learned skills become the foundation for acquiring new ones. Sonya highlights the importance of helping children recognize connections and apply their skills in various contexts, facilitating lifelong learning.

Sonya wraps up the podcast by encouraging parents to understand and support their children's learning stages, aiming for more than just good grades but building a strong foundation of knowledge and skills. She emphasizes the importance of nurturing curiosity and a lifelong love of learning.

Find Sonya Post Math Mom

⁠Website⁠, ⁠Academy⁠,⁠ Facebook⁠, ⁠Instagram⁠

Email: ⁠sonya@sonyapostmathmom.com

In this episode of the Notice and Wonder Podcast, host Sonya Post spends some time with friend Debra Childers and they discuss the role social interaction plays in the thinking process. They explore studies on thinking out loud and self-mediation and how taking thinking outside your mind affects education.

Debra Childers is a homeschooling mom of 4, aspiring novelist, and sometimes Twitch streamer under the name Maidenfine.

Mentioned in the podcast:

Jordan Peterson on Thinking

NBC News Go Ahead and Talk to Yourself

Find Sonya Post Math Mom

⁠Website⁠, ⁠Academy⁠,⁠ Facebook⁠, ⁠Instagram⁠

Email: ⁠sonya@sonyapostmathmom.com