A generation which ignores history has no past – and no future.

-Robert A Heinlein

History can certainly be dull and dry.  I remember this is how I felt throughout my schooling years.  It had no relevance to my existence as a child.  What was the point of just memorizing small snippets of information that seemed so disconnected?  Then when I started homeschooling, history became my absolute favorite subject!  How did this happen?  I focused on reading stories.  Stories that were interesting and flowed effortlessly from one story to the next and in chronological order. 

When my girls were young we lived in Jordan and visited Jerash where the recently restored hippodrome would feature gladiator fights and chariot races.  They even got to vote on whether the winner should allow the defeated gladiator to live.  All in good fun and they could meet the gladiators afterwards.  Of course, this led to lots of dress-up fun at home as Roman patricians and girl warriors.

In addition to the stories and experiences, we loved playing games so we would incorporate games as much as possible.  Here are a few suggestions depending on what topic you’re learning.


Zeus On The Loose

Get to know Ancient Roman gods and goddesses while also practicing basic math skills.  Ages 8+


Role Play

Children love to play and pretend, so encourage them to re-enact stories they’ve listened to and create their own scenes during the same time period.  


7 Wonders

You are a leader of one of the seven greatest cities of the Ancient World. Gather resources, develop commercial routes and affirm your military supremacy. Build your city and erect an architectural wonder that will transcend future times.  Ages 10+

Carcassonne

Inspired by the medieval fortress in southern France of the same name, Carcassonne is a tile-laying game in which players fill in the countryside around the fortified city.  Ages 8+


Jaipur

In Jaipur, players take on the roles of two of the city’s most powerful traders seeking to become the Maharaja’s personal trader by amassing more riches than their opponent.  Ages 10+


Hnefatafl Viking Chess Set

An authentic Viking game that was a favorite of medieval warriors and European fighters of the Dark Ages.  The Viking lords have sounded the drums of war. The king prepares his defenses while the enemy flanks him on all sides.  Ages 8+


Imhotep

As ancient Egyptian architects, players transport stone blocks to the most valuable positions on five construction sites while thwarting opponents’ efforts to do the same.   Ages 10+


Great Western Trail

As a rancher in 19th century America, you’ll set out on the Great Western Trail to herd your cattle from Texas to Kansas where they’ll be sold. To keep expanding your burgeoning business you’ll need to hire cowboys, craftsmen, and more to expand your influence and build your wealth.  Ages 10+


Targi

Two nomadic tribes compete for control of Saharan trade routes.  Geared towards the middle and high school students.

Catan

An easy-to-learn game where the players learn to trade, build and settle on the Island of Catan.  There also are several expansion sets to enjoy the adventurous Age of Exploration.