We just finished up the settling of the original colonies. Each child had a map to color in along the way.

Each was able to indicate the state of his/her Birth (1-NJ, 3-NC, 2-VT) in one of the states.

Since we are tentatively planning for a trip “south” this year, we excitedly colored in the ocean where we would be swimming (VA Beach, VA, and Wrightsville Beach, NC). Then we happily marked off where all our closest family live, right down the eastern states from NY to NC:

“Look! Aunt Dor. lives here, Unkie and Aunt L. are here, Aunt Da. lives here, Grandma is here, here is where Uncle M. and Grandma J. live.”

As the kids scattered outside after the lesson, I couldn’t help but reflect, once again, on the contrast between what we do and government education. Here a geography lesson became a visual for a possible vacation, and a connection with family. 

(That family is increasing. If we take our trip, I will be in NJ near when my oldest niece is due to deliver her first child!)

I know the children will not soon forget finishing up their geography maps of the eastern states!