Learning Virtue Through Story In the World Called Narnia

A new episode on The Rooted Minds Podcast just released! My name is Audrey, and I will be the host of today’s podcast as we dive into how learning virtue through story can transform young hearts and minds. Stories have an incredible power to shape our understanding of virtue and character. Through the enchanted world…

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Speaking Life & Death in The Magician’s Nephew

Welcome to Rooted Minds, where our family’s love for literature becomes your invitation to discover the transformative power of great books. I’m Betsy Strauss, and along with my family, we’re excited to share our journey through the pages that have shaped our hearts and minds. In our home, books aren’t just stories on shelves—they’re treasured…

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The Power of Social Learning in Literature Education

Social learning in literature education is often overlooked in today’s fast-paced educational landscape. However, the power of collaborative literary exploration can transform how students engage with and understand texts, even in a homeschool setting. Creating a Literary Community at Home Here are practical ways to implement social learning in your homeschool literature studies: Expanding Your…

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I think I can. Lessons in Learning from “The Little Engine That Could.” 

self-efficacy demonstrated in the Little Engine that Could

Do you remember the gentle chug of that determined little blue engine? “I think I can, I think I can…” Those simple words carry profound wisdom that resonates deeply with the Christian understanding of learning and growth. Just as our Heavenly Father delights in seeing His children develop the gifts He’s bestowed, that beloved story…

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Imagination and Reading as Regeneration

imagination in the magician's nephew

There’s something magical about losing yourself in a good story. When I open the pages of a novel, I’m not just reading words on a page – I’m stepping into a portal that awakens my heart to deeper truths. Fiction has this unique ability to bypass my analytical defenses and speak directly to my soul,…

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