Jae (10yo) has been really into gemstones recently, and rubbing his interest onto El (8yo).
Once the child has a budding interest, I simply have to facilitate his learning across subjects. Here are some ideas:
Science & Geography: visit The Gem Museum (Singapore). Lots to learn & explore.
Social: interact with gemologist / gem professionals (at the museum & store)
Language: get a reference book
Language: find out the names of gems in different languages
Finance: start a collection by deciding what to buy from his savings. Jae said that only diamonds more than 2 carats can be seen. Obviously, he can’t afford one!
Math: weigh gems using a mass balance & digital balance
Math: compare sizes
Memory: remember the various names
Practical life: clean up & decorate personal / learning space with gems
Art: design, draw & colour gems
Art & Geometry: fold origami diamond & ring
The above involve minimal preparation work. I brought the kids out to the gem museum, gem store & bookstore. The rest were done using existing materials at home.
Happy exploring gems!
This unit is for older children due to choking hazard. Safety first!
