Spring of 2010 my husband and I made the decision to homeschool our youngest son. This is not a decision we made lightly. Quite frankly I was scared to death. Did I really have the knowledge to teach my son everything he needs to know? More importantly, did I have the patience? I have to admit we have are good days and our bad days. But who doesn’t.
But today was one of those days that was just pretty awesome. It reminded me of one of the reasons I decided to homeschool my youngest son. To be able to get out of the traditional classroom and into the world classroom where we can experience life and learn as we go. We can be inspired to explore the world around us and let our dreams take flight.
Some local artists invited some of the area homeschoolers out for a demonstration of their homemade hot air balloons. Now when you think of hot air balloons you are probably envisioning those big oh so colorful balloons. Well these balloons were a lot smaller in size and made from something you probably have in your home right now. White tissue wrapping paper!
Yep, you read that correctly. Our artist teacher for the day explained how it took him over 6 hours to put together this pointy star and even demonstrated how he makes repairs with more tissue paper and Elmer’s glue. Tissue paper and glue! All the kids (young and old) learned the science behind hot air balloons and what makes them go up. Hot air! This is a lesson the kids will not soon forget (unlike the stuff they teach in traditional schools).
It was pretty cool, especially when the Star Balloon met its demise on the overhead power lines and came crashing down to the ground in a trail of smoke. Fortunately I was using the video mode on my camera to capture the grand finale. Check it out!
Did you enjoy the movie? Tell me, do you remember any of your science lessons from when you were a kid?
What do you remember most?