By Amy Pentimone

Have your kids ever asked “When will I actually use this?” when you introduced a new math formula or as they recorded data from a science experiment? It’s not a bad question if it’s meant sincerely — instead of as a complaint. (Sadly, I know I was guilty of saying it as a complaint at different points when I was being homeschooled!) The reality is we want our students to understand how their education is practical for their lives! Hands-on learning, unit studies, and field trips are all different ways to keep the practical and real-life elements alive in our teaching.