Box of I.D.E.A.S

From the website:

“Box of I.D.E.A.S are ideal for teaching multi level students, focusing on age 9 to 16. Designed to get kids off the computer and around the table, Box of I.D.E.A.S. are great to supplement your current curriculum but can also be used for homeschool group activity, summertime learning and as a break from the normal routine.  The Salt Box of I.D.E.A.S is a comprehensive look at salt and how it has helped to shape history, nourish our bodies and even build and destroy empires. This Box delves into history, geography, science, language, political systems and much more. Salt—something that your children see and probably use every single day—can be a wonderful stepping stone to opening their minds to so very much."


COST - PDF versions - $49.00   Physical box - $79.00. Extra modules - $4.00


I know I've mentioned this...unit study learning is a HUGE hit at the Bentz Test Laboratory. I jumped at the chance to take a peak at the Salt Box of I.D.E.A.S.

This company has some very interesting topics - Laundry, Eleven, World War II just to name a few... (More are on the way...Pine, Cemeteries and Olives - oh my!)

I thought to myself - "This ought to be interesting, how does someone make a cross-curricular study of "salt" that will appeal to the 9- 16 age crowd?" Let's just say, I was pleased with the flavor of this product!

We were blessed to recieve the Physical Salt Box of I.D.E.A.S.  Inside, each of the 10 units were completely printed, included all supplies, and were conveniently packaged in easy grab-and-go zip top bags. I love that all the modules are stand-alone - you can use them in any order. As a busy Mom of Many, I need little, to no-prep studies.  Box of I.D.E.A.S has done all the work for me! Games, experiments, fact cards and activities keep even my most hands-on learners busy with PLENTY of variety and interest.

One of our favorites was the "Need for Salt" - we investigated the need for salt in our diet. We made a menu plan containing the amount of salt we ate during the day. A handy laminated menu planner, a table of common food's salt content, and even the dry-erase marker were all included in the activity bag! In addition, we were given a brief overview of the lesson, web links for more learning, and a portfolio page to complete. Extension activities to go deeper were included as well. Each bag includes a quote on the front that you can use for copywork or just for discussion. "Let there be work, bread, water and salt for all" - Nelson Mandela. (emphasis is my own addition, it's now a new family dinner-time saying) 

My older boys jumped at the chance to get to play games.   Geography, history, science -it was all right there in the Box of I.D.E.A.S. waiting to be discovered.  A quote from one of my testers - "You know, The World War II Box would make a great birthday present...hint, hint".  I'd say, Box of I.D.E.A.S are worth their salt!

In my opinion, get the Physical Box. The convenience and quality are well worth the extra investment. It will save you so much time. Your children will be able to grab it and get down to the fun of learning, without waiting for you to prep it!

I can't wait to order the Quilting  Box of I.D.E.A.S. for our American Girl Club. Did I mention this product is a great fit with homeschool groups?  

See what the other members of the TOS Review Crew thought here.

Disclaimer:
I was sent a complimentary Box of I.D.E.A.S in exchange for my honest opinion as part of the TOS Review Crew.