No, really I’m serious. Okay, not really, but as we were sword fighting on Friday I realized there really is a lot of science involved.
As you’re jousting you have to figure out angles, okay that’s math. But, the science part comes in when you get into the physics of having to brace yourself so you aren’t knocked off, or how much force to put into your “lance,” or in our case sword to knock your opponent off.
Yes, that is my view as we hacked and wacked at each other. But think of the anatomy lesson they’re getting.
They’re learning what is a disabling hit, to the leg or arm, and what is deadly, most body shots or a shot to the neck.
Okay, I write this post mostly tongue in cheek, but have you ever thought about the learning opportunities that present themselves when you’re playing. Why think about the lessons when you’re using a catapult. Okay, so most families don’t have a toy catapult, but you really should get one, they’re a lot of fun.
Yes! I was really torn between posting about our black and white stuff, or the physics of racing button racers, or making simple machines, like ramps, or air resistance, and friction, when you throw coffee filters in the air (coffee filter craft on it's way), verses say, a lego guy. We are surrounded by science, and math, and really almost all the subjects, all day long – in the kids play. It's just getting them to stand still long enough to hear our 30 second lesson, that's the hard part 🙂
I hope my boys don't read this. Then they will want to count their rough-housing and sword play for science!:)
I am thinking now “pillow fight” as the next science lesson 🙂 I agree with Leah's comment.
I love when we are doing an everyday activity and we can tie it into a science, or maths based learning opportunity.
I should commission your children to sew for me – very impressive sewing skills.
I've had a few giggles reading through your recent posts that I have missed. I always love stopping by here.
The best part of being a kid…learning really is fun!!!
I think this is a really neat post! DJ has been wanting to joust with swords. I'm scared!! Fun though especially when you can tie in a lovely lesson. Thank you for sharing.
I want a toy catapult!
I have actually been mulling over the idea of how much play time IS learning time for kiddos. Ever since Baby Girl began reading, she has been wanting to spell and read words all around her- everywhere we go. In fact, she is “teaching” her younger brother words. They play a game in the back of the van where they ask each other what certain letters spell (often times they are creating made up words).
I LOVE the way children LEARN!!!
I love Leah's comment, as it is so true that we have so much science and math that goes on in right down fun play.