I’ve mentioned before on Instagram that this year we have our son enrolled in a local charter school that acts as a hybrid program; he attends on-site classes three days a week for a half day, and we’re in charge of science, social studies, and physical education at home.

Even though it can be a little challenging at times trying to juggle teaching him with my three other small children around, it has been really fun! One of the best parts is that I’ve been including my three-year old in the at-home lessons as well and the three of us are having tons of fun together. It’s not always a perfect situation, but I like the idea of learning together as a family and being more hands on in our approach. Take these toddler leaf rubbings for example, such a fun and hands on activity for my two older ones to do alongside each other to support our homeschool lesson!

Our first science unit is all about plants; we’ve talked about the different parts of plants and their functions, so one of the activities that we did is go for a walk collecting all different kinds of leaves. We were able to talk about the purpose of leaves and their function for the plant and even the difference between leaves and needles which led to a brief explanation of evergreen versus deciduous trees.

When we got home we made some leaf rubbings and I was surprised by how much fun it was for them! They even wanted to do it again a few days later. I don’t know about you, but when I find an activity that my kids enjoy, is free, and doesn’t make a mess I call that a win!

Rubbings are so easy to make, and I know that you already have everything at home that you need. This is a great activity because even the really young kids can do it, you might just have to help them hold down the paper as they rub their crayon across it.

As you fill your paper, it’s fun for them to see the different sizes and shapes of all the leaves that they collect. Fall is the perfect time of year for this activity, and an extra bonus is that you don’t have to be “crafty” to do this! Plus, how pretty would this be if you covered a large sheet of paper and used it as wrapping paper? What a great way to involve the kids in gift giving!