We are always thinking up new ways to make learning fun. Last Wednesday Steven gave the kids a challenge if they could learn and memorize some important math facts he would have a great reward planned the following Saturday. They were very excited and took the challenge to heart.
Ryley's assignment, multiplication numbers 1, 2, 3 - all the way to fifteen. Kadyn's assignment, addition 1, 2, 3 - all the way to fifteen. Since this was Thatchers first "challenge" we went a little lighter and assigned numbers 1-100. He already knew the first fifty but occasionally leaves some out. Each received their assignment and understood a test would be given a week later with Thatcher needing to know them without any assistance and the girls able to answer from memory.
They worked hard all week long, made flash cards and tested one another over and over. The evening prior to deadline they approached us and asked to be tested. Steven said, "you have one more day". They didn't want one more day. They were ready and prepared and we knew it. Each one passed with flying colors and when Saturday came we headed for Kansas City. Steven's sister lives their with her family, which includes seven cousins. What a gift! We are so excited to have family near by. When we got to their home the kids immediately disappeared with their "friends" and a few hours later reappeared for pizza and a soccer game. We headed off for Steven's surprise after that but promised to return within the month. An hour later we were sitting in a beautiful stadium for the Royals vs. Yankee's game - our kids love baseball games. We're not sure if it's all the cheering or all the food but they sure enjoy the experience. This was the first major league game they had seen and regardless of who won or lost, we don't need to focus on scores :), it was a wonderful evening out at the ball game.
