Welcome!

Welcome to Freshwater Academy!  We're glad you've chosen to join us!  Yes, I often speak in exclamation points! :)


As I write this, I am awaiting my turn in a rousing game of Monopoly.  Though maybe not so much rousing as rambling, rollicking, and roving...It's sometimes a slow trip around the board with my crew.  We do enjoy it though.  Surprisingly enough, Monopoly has come out as one of the most requested, clear favorites of my younger children from our family board game collection.  


This surprises me, because my 8, 10, and 11 year olds are the ones who usually want to play.  It thrills me, because I think Monopoly is a great game!  Sure, it can be long and drawn out, or even seriously cut throat, depending on who you're playing with, but I think it can be an incredible learning opportunity.  Not only are there the obvious math skills, but it's also a great opportunity to teach thinking skills and strategies, as well as life skills like patience, compassion, good sportsmanship, self control, and a million others (okay, a million might be a slight exaggeration, but it is a valuable learning tool).  


My kids like a little extra challenge as well.  My 8 and 10 year old started this, but they try to make the other do as much math as possible to give change.  For instance, if they owe $6 for rent on Oriental Avenue, they will hand the other player a fifty dollar bill.  Or, for $22 on Atlantic Avenue, the renter might pay with a five hundred dollar bill, also giving us a great opportunity to count back change.  


I do usually play the part of the Banker, but I make them do all the math, I'm just there to make sure things are going smoothly.  All in all, Monopoly is a great family game that is also a mecca of learning.