[…] is the ability to embrace a multi-disciplinary approach to education. Instead of confining learning to traditional subjects, children can engage with a wide range of disciplines such as history, science, geography, art, and […]
Incorporating Core Subjects into Your Disney Homeschooling Experience
August 24, 2023Disney World offers an immersive environment that can be easily incorporated into a self paced homeschool curriculum to make an engaging and memorable experience for students and parents. By incorporating core subjects such as math, science, history, and language arts, families can enhance their homeschool journey while enjoying the magic of Walt Disney World. In this blog post, you can explore how you can weave these core subjects into your Disney homeschooling experience, using hands-on activities and resources to make learning come alive.
Disney Homeschooling: Creating core memories with core subjects!
Oh Boy, it’s… Math!
Believe it or not, Walt Disney World Resort has so many learning opportunities to explore where you can apply mathematical concepts for Disney homeschooling. These are just a few examples of how mathematics is integrated into various aspects of Walt Disney World, from design and construction to entertainment and operations. Here are some ideas on how you can incorporate math into your visit:
A) Ride Time Calculations:
Encourage your children to calculate wait times and ride durations using real-time data available on Disney’s official app. They can practice addition, subtraction, and estimation skills while managing their time effectively. Disney uses data on ride capacity, guest arrival rates, and ride duration to design a queue system that minimizes wait times through clever switchbacks and themed interactive elements.
B) Budgeting and Money Management:
Involve your children in planning and budgeting for the trip. Assign them tasks like researching ticket prices, meal expenses, and souvenir costs. They can learn about budgeting, comparing prices, and making financial decisions.
C) Measurement and Geometry:
While exploring the park, ask your children to estimate and measure the height, width, and distances of various attractions, buildings, and structures. This activity promotes spatial awareness and reinforces concepts related to measurement and geometry.
What about Science?
Walt Disney World Resort offers so many opportunities to explore various scientific principles and concepts. While not all experiences at Walt Disney World Resort are explicitly science-focused, many attractions incorporate educational elements related to science, technology, engineering, and nature, allowing guests to learn while having fun. Here are some ideas of how you can incorporate science into your Disney homeschooling:
A) Animal Kingdom Exploration:
Visit Disney’s Animal Kingdom to learn about animal habitats, behavior, and conservation. Explore exhibits like the Maharajah Jungle Trek and Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail to observe and study different species. Discuss animal adaptations, ecosystems, and the importance of biodiversity.
B) Physics in Action:
Encourage your children to observe and analyze the physics behind thrilling attractions like roller coasters and water rides. Discuss concepts such as gravity, acceleration, and forces that make these rides possible. Challenge your children to identify and explain the scientific principles at play. Example? At Test Track, engineers use physics and math to design the track layout, calculate speeds, and ensure that the vehicle can safely navigate the curves and loops. When designing you vehicle, there are opportunities presented to discuss the various ways your design choices affect your ride experience.
C) Life sciences:
The Seas with Nemo & Friends at Epcot features educational exhibits about marine life and conservation, including a massive aquarium with diverse aquatic species.
Looking forward to History
Walt Disney World offers a range of history-based experiences that transport guests to different time periods and cultures. These history-based experiences at Walt Disney World Resort offer families the opportunity to immerse themselves in different time periods, cultures, and stories, creating a blend of entertainment and education that adds depth to your visit. Here are some opportunities to delve into history through themed attractions and exhibits that you can incorporate into your Disney homeschooling lessons:
A) American History:
Explore the historical scenes and audio-visual presentations in The American Adventure exhibit at Epcot. Engage in discussions about key events, figures, and milestones in American history, fostering a deeper understanding of the nation’s past. Also, Liberty Square in Magic Kingdom Park has two areas that provide a unique look into early American history: Liberty Square Riverboat takes guests on a leisurely cruise on a steam-powered riverboat, exploring the Rivers of America and getting a sense of what life was like during early American history and The Hall of Presidents attraction features an animatronic show that showcases all U.S. presidents, providing insights into American history and the development of the nation.
B) World History:
Take a stroll through the World Showcase in Epcot, where each pavilion represents a different country. Encourage your children to research and learn about the culture, history, and traditions of each nation, promoting global awareness and appreciation.
C) History of Civilization:
Spaceship Earth at Epcot takes you on a journey through the history of communication, highlighting advancements in technology, which can be seen as a mix of history and technology education.
A magical place for Language Arts
Disney World can be a platform for enhancing language arts skills while Disney homeschooling. Here are some activities to incorporate language arts into your visit:
A) Storytelling:
Encourage your children to observe the storytelling techniques used in attractions, shows, and parades. Discuss the elements of a story, character development, and narrative structure. Encourage them to create their own stories inspired by the Disney Magic!
B) Journaling:
Encourage your children to keep a journal during the trip. They can document their experiences, write descriptions of attractions, and reflect on their learning. This activity promotes writing skills, vocabulary development, and self-expression.
C) Books come to life:
There are many examples of books that have been the basis of the various attractions in the Parks. For example, “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn” is a great example of reading that can be done in advance and brought to life in Magic Kingdom Park at Tom Sawyer Island. Other books that could be explored in advance of unit in the parks are: “Peter and Wendy” by J.M. Barrie, A.A. Milne’s “The Many Adventure’s of Winnie The Pooh”, “The Swiss Family Robinson” by Johann David Wyss, and various Hans Christian Andersen fairy tales that have inspired Disney reimagined tales. If you visit Enchanted Tales With Belle at Magic Kingdom Park you will even receive a complimentary bookmark!
Disney Homeschooling is all about core subjects meets core memories!
By incorporating core subjects into your Disney homeschooling experience, you can transform a family vacation into an enriching educational adventure. From math calculations and scientific observations to historical explorations and language arts activities, Walt Disney World Resort offers a captivating environment for interdisciplinary learning. By engaging in hands-on activities and utilizing the park’s resources, homeschooling families can foster a love for learning while creating lasting memories. So, embark on your Disney World homeschooling journey and watch as your children’s educational horizons expand in the most magical way!