Love to Laugh and Learn

Fun and interesting learning activities to do with the children in your life

Hands-On Learning for Families: Celebrating 14 Years

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A colorful celebration graphic with brushstroke textures and the title “Love to Laugh and Learn Turns 14 Years Old.” Below are three real-life photos labeled Cooking, Music, and Literature. The first shows a child learning about pumpkins in the kitchen. The second is a collage of a family dancing at an outdoor concert where the blog author's husband was performing. The third shows children enjoying Dr. Seuss Day with themed food. At the bottom is the message: “Helping Families Enjoy Learning Together Through Hands-On Fun.”

My, how time flies! I can’t believe my little blog is turning 14 on October 7th, 2025. When I started Love to Laugh and Learn, my heart was set on one thing: hands-on learning for families. Over the years, life has brought big changes and unexpected challenges—but this blog has remained a joyful constant, and I’m so thankful to still be here creating with you.

A Personal Journey

Mama Carmody is Relocating: Texas Bound

In 2015—my blog’s 4th year—my husband and I moved from Indiana to Texas. Just a year later, in 2016, he passed away after a battle with cancer. His loss turned my world upside down. For a long time, I struggled with grief, finding my footing, and simply learning how to live on my own again.

While I haven’t always been able to post consistently, my passion for fun, meaningful learning has never left. This blog has been a source of healing, purpose, and connection—and I’m honored that some of you have been with me from the beginning.

What You’ll Find Here

I’ve created dozens of activities and free printables to support hands-on learning for families. Whether it’s exploring colors and shapes, gardening with kids, or diving into music and literature, my goal is to make learning a joyful experience.

  • Colors and shapes
  • Holiday and patriotic activities
  • Gardening with kids
  • Fun with music
  • Cooking and food-themed learning
  • Community helpers and themed learning units

Whether you’re a teacher, homeschooler, or just a curious parent or grandparent, you’ll find fun ideas here that sneak in learning while making lasting memories.

A Sweet Book from My Heart

After my husband passed away, I wrote a children’s book to help my grandchildren understand what had happened to their Papa. That book became Someone I Love Has Gone to Heaven: A Sweet Object Lesson – a spiritual, gentle explanation of death for young children, using a “sweet” object lesson to illustrate the difference between the body and the spirit.

What started as a healing tool for my own family is now available to help others too. You can find the book online at Amazon, Walmart, and Barnes & Noble.

Teachers Pay Teachers (and You!)

I also create educational resources and printables that I sell on Teachers Pay Teachers—but don’t let the name fool you! It’s not just for teachers.

My store includes:

  • Affordable, ready-to-use learning materials
  • Several free items (yes, really free!)
  • Family-friendly printables for holidays and everyday learning

Even if you never spend a penny, I invite you to grab the free downloads and explore what’s there.

Fun, Wholesome Products for the Whole Family

In addition to printables and blog activities, I’ve also started creating fun, wholesome products for families—including T-shirts, home decor, and more that reflect the same heart and message behind Love to Laugh and Learn. They’re available on platforms like Redbubble, TeePublic, and TeeSpring. Each store has different types of items and different sales, so take a look at all of them.

Whether you’re looking for a cute holiday shirt, a homeschool design, or a meaningful reminder of something you’ve read on the blog, I hope you find something that brings a smile.

More Places to Laugh and Learn

In addition to the blog, you can now find me on:

Each platform has a little something different, but they all carry the same heart: making learning fun for families.

What’s Next?

In recent months, I’ve been posting more regularly – and let me tell you, the ideas are flowing! I’ve got so many things I want to share with you. It takes time to pull it all together, but I’m working on it, one joyful piece at a time.

I’d also love to hear from you! If there’s a topic you’d like me to cover—or a learning idea you’re searching for—please let me know in the comments. My specialty is still early childhood, but now that my grandchildren are 9½ and 12, the blog is growing right along with them!

A Final Word of Thanks

Early in my blogging journey, I learned something valuable from Bob Lotich (Christian Personal Finance) and Jonathan Milligan (Blogging Your Passion):

“Choose a blog topic you’re passionate about—something you’d love even if you never made a penny.”

That’s exactly what Love to Laugh and Learn has been for me. A labor of love. A creative outlet. A way to honor the childlike joy in all of us.

Thank you for being part of this journey. I can’t wait to see what the next chapter brings. It will definitely include even more hands-on learning for families everywhere.

With Love,
 Mama Carmody


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Learning Through Laughter: Why Learning Should Be Fun

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A colorful vertical Pinterest image collage with photos of children learning through fun activities like crafts, cooking, and music. Text reads: “Learning Through Laughter: Why Learning Should Be Fun.”

“A joyful heart is good medicine…” – Proverbs 17:22

My Mission

From the very beginning of Love to Laugh and Learn, my mission has been simple: to show that learning should be fun — not serious and stiff, but filled with joy and meaning. In fact, the more joy we bring into it, the more it sticks.

Natural Learners

Children are natural learners—curious, creative, and constantly absorbing the world around them. But here’s the key: they learn best when they’re having fun.

Whether it’s identifying colors, discovering shapes, or exploring the roles of community helpers, I’ve always believed in making learning hands-on, engaging, and joyful. Flashcards have their place, and repetition absolutely helps secure knowledge—but I believe that repetition works best when it’s wrapped in meaningful play, exploration, and real-life application.

Love to Laugh and Learn Has Grown

Over the years, Love to Laugh and Learn has grown—just like the little ones it serves. My background is strongest with early childhood (birth to Kindergarten), but now that I’m a grandmother to kids who are 9½ and 12, you’ll notice the blog is expanding to include content for older children, too.

You’ll find posts that cover:

  • Early learning basics like colors, shapes, and numbers
  • Themed units like Fun with Music, where we explore instruments and sounds
  • Holiday activities filled with crafts and conversations
  • Community helper studies that bring real-world roles into focus
  • Printable resources, educational games, and more!

In the early days of the blog, I often highlighted family-friendly attractions and events around Indianapolis, where I used to live. Now, after a decade in Texas, I’m looking forward to doing the same here—especially once my daughter, son-in-law, and grandkids move back nearby. I’m excited to start reviewing local sites and activities again that make learning an adventure.

My Goal

It is still my goal is to support families and teachers alike in creating joyful, meaningful learning moments. Most ideas can be adapted wherever you live and whatever stage your learners are in—whether you’re homeschooling, supplementing school lessons, or simply having fun at home.

Science Behind Learning Should Be Fun

And in case you need some science to back it all up: Dr. Kathy Hirsh-Pasek, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution and professor of psychology at Temple University, says:

“Play is not a break from learning. It’s the way young children learn.”
Research shows that playful learning boosts cognitive development, social-emotional skills, and long-term memory retention (Zosh et al., 2017, American Academy of Pediatrics).

So whether you’re a parent, grandparent, teacher, or caregiver, I’m so glad you’re here. Let’s laugh, explore, and learn together—because learning should be fun, every step of the way.

Most sincerely,
Mama Carmody
Love to Laugh and Learn

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Learning Should Be Fun (my blog’s first ever post)

Colors – Overview

Teaching Shapes to Preschoolers: An Overview of Fun Learning Activities

📸 Capture the Moment: First and Last Day of School Signs for Every Grade

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Can you believe it? In some places, school is already starting this month. One of my daughter’s favorite back-to-school traditions is taking a First Day of School photo of my grandkids — it’s a simple moment that turns into a sweet keepsake. That’s why I created a fun, colorful set of First Day of School signs and Last Day of School signs for kids from Preschool through 12th Grade — and I’m giving away a free version to help you capture those memories. Whether you homeschool, teach, or are simply trying to remember what day it is, the new school year always seems to sneak up on us.

First Day of School signs & Last Day of School signs – What’s Included?

I designed three different styles of the first day of school signs to match different age groups:

Preschool – 4th Grade

Bright and playful — with crayons, scissors, and paint trays.

5th – 8th Grade

Still fun, but a little more grown-up — featuring globes, books, and backpacks.

High School (Freshman–Senior Year)

Clean, classic, and stylish enough for teens who “don’t do cute.”

Each design includes:

  • A First Day of School sign
  • A Last Day of School sign
    (Perfect for comparing just how much they’ve grown!)

Want the Free Printable Version?

You can download the non-editable version of the signs for FREE when you sign up to receive updates from Love to Laugh and Learn.

These free signs show the grade level only (no name or date fields), and they are ready to print and use instantly.

And yes — the watermarks will be removed when the signs are delivered to your inbox!

Click here: 👉 Free First and Last Day of School Signs

Want to Personalize Them with Your Child’s Name and Date?

If you’d like to customize the signs digitally, I also offer a fully editable version in my Teachers Pay Teachers store for just $5.

The editable set includes:

  • Canva links for all 3 styles
  • The ability to type in your child’s name and date before printing
  • Matching first and last day signs for every grade from preschool through 12th
  • Free graphics (no Canva Pro needed!)

Start the School Year with a Smile

These signs are an easy way to start a new tradition or continue an old one. Whether you use the free version or grab the editable one, I hope they help make your child’s school year just a little more special — and a lot more memorable.

With love,
Mama Carmody

📍 P.S. I’d love to see your First Day photos! Tag @LoveToLaughandLearn or send me a message — it truly makes my day!

Related Posts

Teaching Shapes to Preschoolers: An Overview of Fun Learning Activities

Teaching Your Child Colors – Overview

Happy Birthday, America! (Almost 250 Years Old!)

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Happy Birthday, America! Did you know the United States of America is getting ready to celebrate a BIG birthday?

Next year — in 2026 — our country will turn 250 years old! That’s called a Semiquincentennial. (Whew, that’s a big word. Let’s say it slow: semi-quin-cen-ten-nial.)

But guess what!? Someone else just had a birthday too — and they’re older than the United States!

The United States Army turned 250 years old THIS year!

Yes, the Army is actually one year older than our country! That’s because the Army was created in 1775 — before the Declaration of Independence was even signed. People knew they would have to fight for freedom, so they got organized early!

So How Did All This Happen?

  • Long ago, people lived in 13 colonies that were controlled by England.
  • The colonists wanted to make their own rules and have their own government.
  • On July 4, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was signed, saying “Hey England, we’re doing our own thing now!”
  • But England wasn’t thrilled about that… so a big war (the Revolutionary War) happened.
  • Spoiler alert: We won!

Now every July 4th, we say, “Happy Birthday, America”, by celebrating that brave step our ancestors took to start a brand-new country. That’s why we wave flags, shoot fireworks, and eat way too many hot dogs. (Okay, maybe that last one is just for fun!)

Fun Fact Zone

  • The first American flag had 13 stars — one for each colony.
  • Fireworks were first used in China over 2,000 years ago! Now we use them to celebrate birthdays… and freedom!

Mini Activity: Firework Feelings (free printable)

Let kids celebrate America’s birthday in a thoughtful way! In this Fireworks Feelings activity, children can write words inside each burst that describe how they feel about living in the United States. A perfect addition to your Happy Birthday America celebration — great for classrooms, homeschool, or family fun! 👉 Click here to get your FREE Fireworks Feelings printable!

Looking for Ways to Celebrate?

If you’re looking for some fun and educational ways to help your kids enjoy the 4th of July (while sneaking in a little learning), check out my earlier post:
👉 Celebrating the 4th of July with Children

It includes:

  • A fun flag craft puzzle that uses magnets and foam sticks.
  • A collection of great children’s books about Independence Day and American history.

Want something easy and fun to print?

Check out my free Patriotic Coloring Pages on Teachers Pay Teachers — perfect for calming down after the fireworks or keeping little hands busy at a picnic table.

And if you’re looking to show your American pride, I’ve also created a brand new T-shirt design featuring the American Flag — great for parades, barbecues, or just wearing with pride.

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What Can Kids Do to Get Ready for America’s 250th Birthday?

We have a whole year to get ready — and YOU can be part of the celebration! Here are a few fun ideas:

  • Read books about America’s history — you might be surprised how interesting it is!
  • Make red, white, and blue snacks or crafts.
  • Explore your family’s own history — where did your ancestors come from?
  • Create a time capsule with what life is like in 2025. What would kids 250 years from now want to know?
  • Write a letter to America — what do you love, what would you change, and what do you hope for the future?
  • Create a Happy Birthday, America card – design your own card to celebrate America’s special day and share what you love about our country!

A Special Salute

Since the Army is already 250 years old, let’s give them a little extra love this 4th of July. If you know someone in the military, say thank you. Maybe even make a card or draw them a picture!

Story Time

The 4th of July Story by Alice Dalgliesh

Reading Level: Ages 7 to 10 yrs old This book has more content than most of the ones I usually share, but it’s packed with so much great information that I didn’t want you to miss out. It covers a lot of our country’s history in easy-to-understand language. Your child will learn more about the thirteen original colonies, including how they sometimes got along—and sometimes didn’t. The book explains, in a bit more detail than others I’ve reviewed, the struggles involved in becoming a free country. I love the little details, like how Thomas Jefferson wasn’t a good speaker but loved to write, which is why he ended up doing most of the work on the Declaration of Independence. I believe anyone of any age who wants to learn more about the beginnings of our country will enjoy this book.

The Fourth of July (Symbols of America) by Debra Hess

Reading Level: Ages 7 to 10 yrs old This is a great book for slightly older children. It’s still a picture book, but it gives a little more detail than some of the others. The book is divided into three short, simple chapters. Your child will learn about the history of the United States of America, as well as some of the ways we celebrate this special day. It talks a bit more about the taxes England imposed on the original colonies and how they reacted. It also tells how the Liberty Bell was used to announce the Declaration of Independence for the first time. And last, but not least, it shares some of the ideas behind the American dream.

Independence Day (Holidays, Set II) by Julie Murray

Reading Level: Ages 5 to 8 yrs old Do you have a young child who wants to learn more about the 4th of July? If so, this is the perfect book. It’s a picture book with just a few sentences per page, but those few sentences are packed with information. Your child will learn about the history of our country, including the thirteen original colonies and the Declaration of Independence. They’ll also discover some of the symbols of independence and how we celebrate this special day. This is a wonderful little book for learning more about our country and its birth.

What is the 4th of July? (I Like Holidays!) by Elaine Landau

Reading Level: Ages 3 to 8 yrs old I read this to my 2-year-old grandson, and he loved it. It gives very basic descriptions of what the 4th of July is and how we celebrate it. The pictures are bright and entertaining. This would be a great book to share with a preschool class or a young child.

Now Go Celebrate!

Whether you’re heading to a parade, watching fireworks, or just hanging out with your family, remember why we celebrate: because people fought for our freedom, and we’ve been growing ever since.

So wave your flag, cheer a little louder this year, Happy Birthday, America!… and get ready. Next year, we throw the BIG party!

P.S. I’ll be sharing more fun ideas for kids and families to get ready for America’s 250th birthday right here on Love to Laugh and Learn. Stay tuned!

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Celebrating Father’s Day: Crafts and Gift Ideas

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Dad. Father. Pops. Just a few of the names for the first man in your life. Father’s Day is a wonderful time to pause and celebrate the love, laughter, and life lessons he’s shared with you. That’s why I’ve gathered some meaningful Father’s Day crafts and gift ideas to help you show just how much he means to you.

Vintage photo of a smiling father holding his infant daughter on his lap in a striped chair, used in a Father's Day blog post celebrating dads and special memories.

What are some of your favorite memories with your dad?

I remember going fishing with my dad. Sitting in his lap as he taught me to read is another favorite memory. And then there was his calm nature. Like the time I slammed on the brakes and nearly launched my mom into the front seat from the back. Without missing a beat, he looked over his shoulder and said, “Well, you told her to slam on the brakes.” That was my dad. Calm, even in chaos.

Finding ways to celebrate him was always a challenge. He never asked for anything. However, he appreciated everything.

So, if you’re stuck on what to get the special man in your life, here are a few ideas to inspire you. Some are handmade with love. Others are ready to buy. These Father’s Day crafts and gift ideas are easy for kids to help with and are sure to bring a smile.

Father’s Day: Crafts and Gift Ideas

🎨Handprint Keepsake

One of my favorite crafts to do with my preschoolers was a special handprint picture. I would paint Dad’s hand and press it to the paper, then paint the child’s hand and place it right inside Dad’s.
I’m including a free printable with a sweet quote to go along with this keepsake—just print and create!

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🖼️ Popsicle Stick Picture Frames

These are simple to make and full of heart. Here are two easy ideas:

“I’m Nuts About You!”
 Glue small hardware nuts (the kind that go with bolts) to a frame and write this pun along the bottom. Add a photo of Dad and child.

“Love You to Pieces!”
Use those leftover puzzle pieces from broken puzzles and glue them randomly around a frame. Add this fun message and a favorite photo together.

For sturdier frames, I recommend jumbo craft sticks like these (affiliate link):
👉 Jumbo Craft Sticks on Amazon

Or if you’d rather skip building the frame from scratch, I found this great kit on Amazon. It includes pre-assembled frames and even comes with fun Father’s Day-themed stickers—perfect for quick decorating!👉 Check it out here (affiliate link)

Quick & Easy Father’s Day Gift Ideas

If crafting isn’t your thing, here are a few fun gift ideas (yes, these include affiliate links, which help support my blog if you make a purchase):

📚 Dad Joke Books

Got a dad who loves to joke around? Here’s a whole page of dad joke books that’ll keep him laughing (and you rolling your eyes) for days: 👉 Dad Joke Books on Amazon

🔥 Grill Gloves for the BBQ King

My son-in-law is a grill master, and he loved the heat-resistant grill gloves I gave him for his birthday:
👉 Grill Gloves on Amazon

🍖 BBQ-Themed Aprons & Shirts

I’ve designed several BBQ-themed aprons that celebrate America’s most beloved grilling styles—Texas, Kansas City, Memphis—and just plain BBQ fun.
They’re available on Redbubble as aprons or t-shirts, perfect for the grill-loving dad: 👉BBQ Aprons 👉BBQ T-Shirts

However you choose to celebrate, I hope this Father’s Day is filled with laughter, love, and a few unforgettable moments. Whether it’s a handmade gift, a quiet afternoon together, or just a great big hug, the time you share is what truly matters.

Let’s honor all the amazing men who help shape little lives—dads, grandpas, uncles, and bonus dads, too. They deserve to be celebrated for the love, strength, and smiles they bring.

From my heart to yours,
Mama Carmody