Mothers too often use their busy schedules to excuse themselves from any mental excersize. But just as muscles atrophy without use, so a mind that is not excersized soon turns to mush. Continuing to learn new things will not only benefit your family by making you better equipped to fulfil your duties, but it will also send a message to your children that learning is not just something one is forced to do until they are old enough to do more important things. Here are three ways you can use "mother culture" to nuture your child's love of learning.

1. Set educational goals for yourself.

Think of something you want to learn and then make time to learn it. Your goals could include learning new skills or increasing your head knowledge. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

•  Learn a foreign language
• Build a web page using trial and error
• Do a research project on that topic from the kids lessons that you wanted to know more
• Make a lapbook (use a kit from the HomeschoolEStore or design you own)
• Learn how to sew, knit, etc.
• Take a photography class

2. Read something besides fiction (or the kids school books).

Consider these your "textbooks which can be read and reread for insight and encouragement. Here are a few of my favorites:

• The Hidden Art of Homemaking by Edith Shaffer
• Stepping Heavenward by Elizabeth Prentis (This is actually fiction, but instructional none the less.)
• Love & Respect by Dr. Emerson Eggerichs
• Christian Living in the Home by Jay Edward Adams
• Instruments In the Redeemer's Hands by Paul David Tripp

Or, read something that will help you to reach the educational goals you have set for yourself.

3. Nuture your own curiosity.

 No trivia is trivial when it provided the opportunity for a great educational experience.  Children will naturally ask questions, but they will not always know how to get the answers unless you show them. A great way to do this, is by keeping track of those times when you say "I wonder . . ." and making the effort to actually find the answer.

Remember, learning is a lifetime experience. Enjoy the adventure!