We just returned from two weeks in Europe where we visited dear friends from around the world—one from the Restoration Home Community, a former exchange student in France, and a longtime German friend of my husband's.
This time, only two of our children traveled with us. The other five were busy embracing new seasons of life—caring for their own families, starting new jobs, exploring Europe with friends, or soaking in the early days of marriage. Between three states and two continents, our family was beautifully scattered.
One of my favorite parts of the trip? Watching my youngest son’s curiosity bloom.
He connected with mentors everywhere we went—like the Italian grandfather on the train who spoke through a translator app and offered life advice, or the Parisian dad vacationing in Tuscany who shared thoughts about careers and calling. He asked questions constantly—about ancient churches, world wars, and the men and women who shaped history. We visited a museum of the resistance, a church built atop Roman ruins, and a centuries-old monastery. Each stop taught lessons far richer than any textbook could offer.
This is the heart of learning with The Peaceful Press.
Our children aren’t just memorizing facts—they’re growing in wonder, asking deeper questions, and forming real connections with the world around them. They’re learning to care about people from the past and to carry those values forward into their families, careers, and faith.
While many children have had their curiosity dimmed by test-driven classrooms and rushed schedules, your children can experience something more enduring—a lifelong love of learning.
Want to cultivate more curiosity in your family this summer?
Try these simple ideas:
Take an adventure.
Explore a museum, visit a national park, or just go on a hike in a new place. Notice what your children wonder about—then lean in and follow their questions.
Read a biography. Real-life stories invite deeper thinking. Try titles like It’s a Jungle Out There (from our Precious People guide), Unbroken, or Little Britches for a peek into lives full of adventure, hardship, and courage.
Spend time with grandparents or older friends. Elderly loved ones carry stories we can’t even imagine. My husband’s father was a boy in Hawaii when Pearl Harbor was bombed. My dad grew up in a tar-paper shack on the Canadian prairie. Their memories spark awe—and give our children priceless perspective.
Listen to a podcast together. I love How I Built This. While not every story reflects our Christian worldview, many founders share powerful stories of resilience and purpose—like this one.
Do a project. Make jam, build a birdhouse, or plant a garden. Hands-on work often leads to unexpected conversations and creative rabbit trails. Projects naturally spark questions—and discovery.
Let curiosity lead you this summer. Whether you're exploring your backyard or traveling across the globe, these small moments matter. They shape our children into thoughtful, lifelong learners.
I’d love to hear from you—hit reply and tell me how you’re nurturing curiosity and wonder in your homeschool!
And don’t forget—we’re celebrating 9 years of The Peaceful Press this month! Enjoy 15% off everything in the shop with code “nineyears” (offer ends 6/16). Shop here!
Let’s keep learning joyfully—together.