Category: Blog
Welcome to the PenningHouse Blog
PenningHouse is your cozy corner of the internet—a place where creativity, education, and family life come together in meaningful, hands-on ways.
Here, you’ll find:
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Creative Crafts for every age—from babies to tweens—designed to nurture developmental growth and joyful learning
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Nutritious, Kid-Friendly Recipes that make mealtime easier, tastier, and a little more fun
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Homeschool Curriculum Tips & Ideas that help you shape a learning rhythm that fits your family
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Parenting Wisdom & Encouragement for the real-life, messy, magical moments of raising kids at home
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Disability Resources offering support, strategies, and understanding for families with diverse learners
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Homeschooling Know-How with practical guidance, seasonal planning, and reflections to keep your days grounded and inspired
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Leaf Critters
A Seasonal Craft For Early Elementary Fall is fast approaching! What better way to celebrate, than to gather up those freshly fallen leaves and create something whimsical? Leaf Critters are creatures made from real autumn leaves, transformed with googly eyes, markers, and a dash of creativity. Your kids will love turning a maple leaf into Read more
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What is an Umbrella School?
Since a lot of us have begun our new homeschool year, I wanted to take a moment to congratulate your efforts! Homeschooling is no small task. While every household will operate differently, the one thing we all have in common is our choice to school however we please. Some of us will need to be Read more
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Freezer-Friendly Breakfast Sandwiches
Yesterday I hit the ground running (not unusual for me), but by mid-morning I realized…I forgot to eat breakfast! I was so focused on what I had to get done that I completely skipped my morning meal. We all have those days. Kids, pets, and work are just some of the things that can pull Read more
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Shape Monsters
With Fall fast approaching, I wanted to get in the spirit of things with a craft for your little monsters. Shape Monsters are colorful, goofy creatures made from cut-out geometric shapes like circles, squares, triangles, and rectangles. Each monster will have its own “personality” with eyes, mouths, arms, and legs! Why It’s Beneficial This craft Read more
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Prioritizing Mental Health
Reducing Stress & Pressure If you’re new to homeschooling, it’s easy to become overwhelmed at the start of a new year. Stay-at-home caregivers can sometimes place undue pressure on themselves to start the year off with a bang. While your enthusiasm is great when it comes to engaging your children, it can cause additional stress Read more
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Kielbasa & Potatoes
Easy Sheet Pan Dinner Are you ready for a one-pan wonder? This yummy recipe is as easy as it gets. It uses minimal ingredients, minimal kitchenware, and it’s ready to eat in under 30 minutes! More Reasons To Love It: How Kids Can Help Out Even young learners can get involved, making dinner prep a Read more
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Mini Terrarium Craft
Let’s Create A Tiny World Of Our Own! Mini terrariums are such a great craft for preteens+ because they offer a ton of creative freedom. Your kids will get to design their own tiny landscapes, picking out colors, textures, and themes that reflect their personality or mood. It’s also surprisingly calming; arranging moss, soil, and Read more
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Animal Tracks Art
Ready For Some Wild Fun? Today’s craft is all about letting your toddler let out their inner animal! Animal Track Art turns their little feet into mighty dinosaur paws, bear claws, or even bird talons. All you need is some washable paint and a big sheet of paper. Your little animal will do the rest Read more
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IEP Breakdown:
A Question & Answer Guide. Have you ever heard of an IEP before? I’ve noticed that many homeschooling families have questions involving these important documents, and I’d like to offer some clarity on them for you. Today, we’re going to answer the whats, ifs, and whens on all things IEP related. Let’s get to it! Read more
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Roasted Chickpeas
A Low Histamine & Migraine-Friendly Snack It can be challenging to find snack options that are generally safe for individuals with allergies and food intolerances. Having a sensitive system myself, I know firsthand how frustrating it can be to lack store-bought options. Occasionally, I’ll post a recipe like these Roasted Chickpeas, that can be catered Read more
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DIY Kaleidoscopes
Today’s craft is a perfect blend of science and creativity (my two favorite things)! Who doesn’t love the dazzle and wonder of a kaleidoscope? You can make your own by using a few simple items found in your home. Your children will love creating and viewing how the reflections shift and transform with each rotation. Read more
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DIY Touch-and-Feel Book
Have you ever come across a touch-and-feel book and thought: ‘I could make this?’ Well, today you can! These books are fun to make and an excellent choice for sensory enrichment for your infant. Added Bonus: You can keep the book in your child’s memory box to share with them later in life! Let’s Take Read more