Eve improvised the first two sentences of this song. Then created the third stanza to make it longer.
Song 1
Then created a fourth stanza and the girls requested specific changes to create a more childfriendly song.
Song 2
Lilli’s Pandacorns 🙂
We made two AI songs (If you do not like AI, then please read our poetry instead)
Daddy is very technologically forward. He convinced us to create an AI song. We were both afraid and excited, mostly afraid. Daddy got us a program probably because he knows that we have been writing songs and singing it badly in the kitchen, wait, that is mommy. The girls have good singing voices….
We created two songs with the Pandacorn lyrics. We loved the results and we will create more like this. Currently obsessing over the pandacorn.
You are free to use the songs if you wish in any capacity.
This is song 2, lyrics above, children’s version.
This song is Electronic Dance of song 1, lyrics above.
But she came to me and requested help.with her letter g, lowercase.
She collaborated with me to create this G poem and practiced until we loved her letter g.
The graceful groom In Ancient Greece Was in gloom all week: Ghastly days, lost grace, His good wife, a ghost, In the green garden. Heart goes grey, Galaxies away, Gracious goddess: Gown, crown, greatness. Green grape dance to the god, Bring my wife back. The god’s generous reply, A glistening sun ray, And a goose to greet. In two years time, Sacrifice a goat, And your girl will grow From the goose, Take care and groom her Be warned: if you neglect her, Your guilt a curse will be To grueling loneliness.
End of story by Lizzie
The groom agrees, he will not neglect the Goose. Two years pass slowly, the groom Has been taking good care of the goose, the Groom brings the goat to the altar, and Prays, Grape god returns, Two years have Passed, Your wish shall be granted, goose Into wife, I command. The groom reunited, He is happy again with his wife. This story Ends with a happy ending.
Lizzie practiced her letter g handwriting by writing the poem on a paper and her creative writing by creating this poem with me as well as writing the ending all by herself.
I was born and educated in communist Cuba and that means that I had to learn cursive handwriting.
I remember that for not connecting 2 letters on a test, a point would be removed, that is how strict that education system is. On top of that, I remember end of year notebook reviews to review the legibility and good practice of our notetaking and if we kept our notebooks neat for the entire year, we would get up to 5 additional points.
Being educated in Cuba alone was not enough for me to have legible cursive (not cute, legible, there are many levels of cursive).
However, my father was a Spanish teacher and he has amazing cursive and calligraphy. He critiziced my clumsy cursive, and I had to compete with him, he was never impressed. He was the type who would paint signs by hand.
On top of that, my childhood poet, Jose Marti, talked of handwriting. I like the old literature of the 1800s when handwriting was supreme and remember seeing lots of it.
Benefits of legible cursive writing ( my experience)
People assume you are more educated
People assume you are smart
People assume you are classy
People look at you like you are unique
You have better handwriting than most other people you know
You have a creative side, at least you can do letter art
You can create signs, some arts, and crafts
You can pivot into calligraphy which is beautiful, creative handwriting
You can work on legible handwriting: PS, I have earned money on my legible handwriting
You will probably have the best handwriting at your job and be chosen to take meeting notes
People will comment on your handwriting, even when you are not present
Some might ask you to write certain things for them
If you are really good, you can earn money from your calligraphy
People might assume you are teacher material
You can teach children handwriting
People might keep notes you wrote for them
Any handwriting you post online will get lots of attention because most people can’t do what you can
I have been practicing my calligraphy and I started trying digital calligraphy: It is not easy at all. But, why not: I think life is about choosing what to learn and lerning a little bit more every day.
With handwriting and calligraphy, practice is key.
This Lilli that I worked digitally, writing with my computer mouse (though this writing is imperfect) is actually the work of a veteran with years of cursive practice. I should actually be better at it.
Regardless of my perfectionism, my goal is not perfection with my handwriting.
My handwriting goals:
Legibility
Getting better always
Unique letters
Feminine designs: swirls, hearts, dots, and fabulous flourishes
Artsy letters
Teaching handwriting to my kids
I do not tell my kids come and practice your handwriting for an hour. Instead, I will seat down for 2 hours and practice my own calligraphy. They will wonder what I am doing, come see over and over again, and they will decide that they can do better.
Lilli, my artist child (they all show artistic capability, yet Lilli calls herself an artist and seems to be the one who is more willing to be exactly like mommy (I was the same way with my mom and her crafts, not cooking).
Vivi also started decorating her letters, yet she has to work on her legibility. I keep on telling her legibility over beauty. Unless you have a secret something you are writing: I write secret notes in illegible cursive…
And just yesterday, while I worked on this publication, my oldest daughter, Lizzie came up to me to daclare she wants better handwriting. She has however, worked on her handwriting evvery time I did. Lizzie is very strong minded and chooses when she will work on what. She did not want to work on her handwriting when I started, howevver, she saw our handwriting, compared hers to ours, and naturally started writing more legible, her letters were more evenly sized, etc. Of course, now that she requested it, I am going to bring out all my efforts to give her as good a foundation as she will allow.
Samples of Lilli’s font. Her font turned out better than my font, becasue I tried to make mine complex and it was too much, Lilli’s letters also turned out more even than mine.
Thank you for reading,
Please tell us your insights about handwriting, cursive, or calligraphy,
(If you are learning/ teaching Spanish, scroll all the way to the end of this post for my Spanish lesson)
Learning a foreign language by listening to music is both enjoyable and effective. By regularly exposing your ears to the sounds and rhythms of the language, you train yourself to recognize its unique patterns. Start by focusing on familiar words and phrases—this helps you connect the lyrics to meanings you already know. As you listen, you’ll naturally pick up new vocabulary, and recognizing recurring phrases can build your fluency. Music also helps with pronunciation and intonation, as you hear native speakers or singers using the language in a fluid, natural way. Repeating this process deepens your understanding and brings the language to life in a fun and engaging way.
Note: I already knew a little, tiny bit of Italian when I started this, also Spanish is my first language:
Rima y Ritmo is my cool Spanish class where I use poetry to teach my kids my native language. I already taught this lesson to my children, and they loved it. I am currently designing lesson 2: the poem is about a butterfly.
Below are the printable worksheets from my Rima y Ritmo class 1 ebook.
Print the printables, including the poem and read the lesson plan I linked above and using the poem and translation, work through these exercises. My children found them non easy.
Let me know if you need the answers.
Let me know if this helped and if you want to see more like this.
(Spanish learning/ teaching? Scrool to the end for my fun lesson)
It is true that I love language study and learning and I love Duolingo, even though I am not happy they do not have a level two once you finish you language course. I finished my Latin course and got bored, picked up 2 more languages…
This is my Duolingo report this week:
I guess I have a need to prove I am a real person. Why?
With the modern trend of everything we find being AI, I do have a need to prove that I am a real person who really studies language and teaches her children.
Just today we did Halloween arts and crafts…
Anyway, let us connect on Duolingo if you use it, find me as Eve Sanchez.
Why Duolingo
I am currently trying to have more XP on Greek, also struggling with my Greek.
I do not need to learn a language, but I attempted to get my kids interested in Spanish, my first language, and they do not want to be told what to learn, they have their own opinions and ideas, which is really cute…
I joined Duolingo to inspire my kids to learn languages because they imitate anything I do: no pressure.
It worked because they started learning languages too. They are not organized and quit their own Duolingo, yet, Lilli does my Latin lessons at times, Vivi is learning the Greek alphabet with me, they have a Dinolingo Spanish course, Lilli took a Latin class, Lilli and I have Latin jokes, Alex does the Greek lessons with me and repeats the Greek words, Lilli and Vivi took Spanish classes: it worked, but my inspiration effort is ongoing.
Part of my effort is to have them observe my own learning, as well as to experience my learning methods which are varied and colorful, on top of that to expose them to different languages: music in Spanish and Italian; Italian, Latin, Greek words, phrases, and entire videos or podcasts being broadcasted in our house; and more.
And you,
Are you learning or teaching a language? Which? Do you have tips?
Do you listen to music in your target language?
Learning Spanish?
Check out my cool Spanish with poetry clas:
Purchase the class through this link which includes a children’s printable workbook, a test, and more:
I stopped learning Italian on Duolingo because the Duolingo Italian course is not fun. Italian is a gorgeous language and Duolingo does not do it justice.
After I almost lost my streak because of the Italian course, I started a new language, Greek and started learning Italian by listening to Italian music and interacting with the language in a fun and relaxed way. I do not have to learn this language anyway.
Using Music for Language Learning
What is a fun way to learn a new language if traditional methods don’t quite resonate with you? If you’ve ever felt frustrated with a language learning app or textbook, it might be time to consider an alternative approach: music.
Music can transform the language learning process into a game of wonderment and exploration, making it not only enjoyable but also highly effective. Here’s how you can harness the power of music to learn a new language, drawing on my own experience with Italian music.
Discovering Language Through Music
1. Anchoring into Favorite Tunes
One of the most engaging ways to learn a new language is by immersing yourself in music you already love. For instance, I enjoyed the Spanish songs of Laura Pausini and Eros Ramazzotti. By listening to these artists’ Italian versions of the songs I know and love, I learned. This familiar territory provides a comforting anchor, helping you recognize and remember phrases and words more easily.
I fell in love with a new Italian song, started singing it in karaoke, then found translations to Spanish and English. I learned expressions and words as well as recognized words that are the same as in Spanish, my first language. Now I used the vocabulary I learned on my karaoke song in a different song.
A fun Italian story on DuolingoIo o bisogno di (I have a need for) is a phrase I heard in music, so through music, I practice what I learned on Duolingo.The woman asks the worker for help at the store. She is buying a new jacket. He helps her choose the red jacket, then tells her he does not work there.Jacket = giacca, elegant = elegante, very = multo, help = aiuto, store = negozio.
2. Pattern Recognition
Music is an excellent tool for pattern recognition. Pay attention to recurring phrases, themes, and lyrical structures.
For example, in Italian music, I noticed themes such as “Il mare” (the sea), “Parole” (words), and “il cuore” (the heart). I learned all three words because of music and since they’re themes in Italian music, they’re in so many songs. Noticing these patterns helps you internalize the language structure and vocabulary. The rhythm and melody also make it easier to remember new words and phrases.
3. Exploring New Sounds
Spotify and other streaming services offer a wide range of Italian music that can introduce you to the rhythm and intonation of the language. Fast-paced European-style songs with poetic lyrics can be especially engaging. These songs often blend beautiful singing with intricate language, providing a rich auditory experience that helps you get used to the language’s sounds and patterns.
Italian Party Music Spotify Playlist (Adult)
A Game of Wonderment
Learning a language through music is akin to being a baby in an Italian-speaking environment. Just as a child absorbs language by hearing it spoken around them, you absorb Italian by listening to its music. Embrace the process of trying to understand without judging yourself. It’s natural not to grasp every word or sentence at first. Over time, you’ll start recognizing familiar words and phrases, which will naturally expand your vocabulary and understanding.
Benefits of Music-Based Learning
1. Enhanced Listening Skills
Listening to music helps improve your listening skills and pronunciation. You become more attuned to the nuances of the language, such as intonation and stress, which are crucial for effective communication.
2. Emotional Connection
Music often evokes emotions, making the language learning process more personal and memorable. The emotional connection to a song can make new vocabulary stick better. Similar to my pitch for poetry for language learning.
3. Cultural Insight
Music is a reflection of culture. By listening to Italian songs, you gain insights into Italian culture, traditions, and values, enriching your overall learning experience.
Conclusion
I still do not speak or understand Italian but I am learning and it is fun. I do not have to learn it anyway but I take any opportunity I get to learn.
Incorporating music into my language learning routine was a powerful and enjoyable method to familiarize myself with my new language. By anchoring myself in familiar tunes, recognizing patterns, and exploring new sounds, I transformed language learning into an engaging game.
My goal is to become comfortable with the language’s sounds and rhythms. As I continue to listen and immerse myself, I found that I understood some words and the knowledge of the language grew naturally, much like a child absorbing their mother tongue.
Embrace the melody of learning, and let the music guide you to fluency.
Phrases I just heard in music
I listen to this playlist all the time.
My favorite song is my karaoke song
Dove sei tu? Where are you?
Podemo escapare
Per favore, non piangere.
Ho bisogno di te
Me lo merito
Ma quale verita
Non capita
Cuando piango
Grazie per existere
Sinceramente Tua
I recognize a word such as it happened with “parole” (words) in music after listening to it many times in several contexts, looking up the meaning and remembering it.
And you, what language are you learning or teaching and what tools are you using?
There’s no glamour in our life as we home educate our children.
As parents of 5, life is complex but rewarding. We have a lot of love and big messes to clean up, lots of hungry believes to feed, and a busy schedule.
This week is a special one. We have our kids in classes with new tutors. We have been going to Jiu-Jitsu classes for over a month and now it’s routine, the children know their chores by now; finally I am used to our new schedule.
As we move forward, my plan is to solidify our daily home education situation so that everyone is aware of what they need to do (bare minimum) and any extra is ideal.
We have 3 big girls learning at home. They all go to Jiu-Jitsu, have tutors on Outschool, and have their own passions and pursuits.
Everyday Learning by Lizzie, Lilly, Vivi
Outschool Tutoring: Everyday the girls have different classes with tutors on Outschool. I used to have them in several classes a day, but it was too much. Now they each have several classes a week and we re-watch their classes and study their subjects. Lizzie, our oldest checks the Outschool schedule for all three.
Jiu-Jitsu Classes: Monday through Thursday all three girls go to Jiu-Jitsu class. Classes are not mandatory, we usually take Tuesday off and go Monday, Wednesday, Thursday. Going to start taking them on Saturdays as well. While Lizzie waits, she reads and while Lillinand Vivi wait, they work on art and animation on the phone.
Chores: The three big girls have minimum daily chores:
Lizzie checks the outschool and Jiu-Jitsu schedules.
Lizzie helps her younger sisters log Into Outschool classes.
Lizzie cleans the kids eating and art tables on top and underneath.
Lizzie keeps the computer area tidy.
Lizzie helps with cooking lunch for the children as needed.
Lizzie also does a great job of helping take care of her toddler siblings: Alex and Vicky. She is a very helpful big sister and an example to follow.
Lilli’s chore is to keep the living room organized, includes the stairs and furniture
Lilli also helps her little siblings.
Lilli helps Vivi finish her chores also.
Lilli in in charge or the art material organization and sharpening pencils.
Vivi’s chore is to clean the dining room and kitchen floor and the dining room table.
She also helps with her siblings.
Arts and Crafts: Lilly and Vivi draw every day. Lizzie does digital art and animation on her computer.
Personal Passions and Pursuits: Lizzie has her Youtube channel. She creates videos, edits them, and with very little help schedules her videos. Lilly and Vivi help at times.
Lizzie also has her Roblox games. She works on making her games better, shares them, makes friends with players. Her goal is to be a game designer.
Future Plan.
Daily cooking/ baking with the kids
Daily language learning. Fun language opportunities
Handwriting practice
Storytelling initiative
History. Choose interval and continue making it interesting
This log in no way represents the bulk of our effors, rather, every now and then, I share images I collect:
Lizzie (11)
Started a new Earth Science class on Outschool with a british tutor. All of her attention is going into this class. She liked this class and liked to answer questions of her teacher. She read on this subject and told me things about the topic.
Lizzie’s Roblox classes: Added a new song to a game, added a new feature to Skyler town game, added a feature to build on one of her games, new building feature in the VIP room in the game, made game passess on Robux day, created multiple animations for a game.
Lizzie is getting ready to celebrate her birthday and receiving a Robux gift card.
Lizzie has 2 grammar classes witha UK teacher. She recommends these classes, she enjoys them, and she recognizes how much she has learned.
Lizzie is great at animation and continues to practice
Lizzie is taking great pride in completing her cleaning tasks.
Lizzie also cooks and loves it: he favorite things to cook: pasta, potato soup, grilled cheeses, sausages, pancakes, bean patties, want to learn to make rice, and lentils.
Lizzie has been reading while waiting for their sister’s class to be over at Jiu-jitsu class.
Lizzie learned a crochet stitch while waiting for her sister’s class at Jiu-Jitsu class.
Lilli (9)
Lilli also has a new Math tutor
Lilli got her first Jiu-Jitsu promotion
Lilli loves her signing class on Outshool, learned several Disney songs.
Lilli has been creating amazing art digitally and on paper.
Lilli practices and thus is getting great at her fashion illustration.
Lilli is practicing her name in cursive and now does it super cute.
Lilli also created a font with Vivi’s help.
Has been joining me for language learning on Duolingo.
Joined me for dance lessons on Youtube: belly dance, a fun Indian dance, tap dance, hula dance.
Has been joining me for Italian music learning and Italian karaoke.
We baked tiny breads together and Lilli drew designs on the bread.
We practiced fractions with our baking dough which was very fun.
Lilli is working on her chores more, helps Vivi with her chores also.
Lilli (and Vivi) made tiny food for Barbie. It is a new thing they want to try where they preopare real tiny food for Barbie but they eat it. Well, this time I baked tiny cookies and tiny breads but I liked the idea of the girls learning some simple recipes or food preparations.
Vivi (7)
Vivi also got her first Jiu-Jitsu promotion
Vivi started a Dinolingo greek course (which she might abandon eventually, but it is ok)
Vivi loves her singing class most on Outshool and learned Disney songs.
Vivi kind of started her Spanish Duolingo course again.
Vivi has been practicing her animation skills
Vivi is finishing her chores more than ever before.
Vivi has upgraded her digital art/ digital coloring game:
Alex (4)
Alex joined me in my Greek course in Duolingo and he likes the word that means to be in Greek, he was so excited becasue he was getting the answers right.
Alex is repeating words in Spanish.
Alex is doing great in his game art creation
He has been trying to write his name
Alex is getting much better at drawing in real life
Vicky (2)
Vicky used the potty.
Vicky has been repeating words in Spanish.
She is talking more and more.
She draws with her sisters and is very helpful with cleaning and picking up.
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