Stories by Character

Martin

Martin is the delightful older brother in all of the various Martin & Sylvia Series. Known for his bright ideas, his enterprising spirit and his kind heart, this seven year old boy finds adventure at all turns, and in all seasons.

Lunch Box

Martin & Sylvia set out to create their own personalized lunch boxes...

16 min

3+

Really Explorers

Martin & Sylvia get to lead the hike on Mount Mooseberry... what kind of secrets will the mountain have in store for them?

24 min

3+

Spy Team

Martin's friend Julian is coming over and Sylvia knows that he loves to play spies. She wants to spy with boys but if they're all on the same team, who will they spy on?

15 min

4+

Part One: Let's Go!

Part one of five: Martin & Sylvia create an Explorer's Map in preparation for their trip from New England to California.

19 min

3+

A Very Big Mess

Martin & Sylvia realize that making fun and yummy snacks sometimes makes for a lot of mess... and clean up!

21 min

3+

December 1: Waiting

December 1: Martin and Sylvia receive a golden envelope in the mail with an invitation for an advent adventure!

23 min

3+

Too Much

Momma helps Martin & Sylvia be honest about their feelings...

19 min

3+

Sam Sugarpop and the Switch Witch Surprise

Sam Sugarpop is a frisky little fire sprite who loves, loves, loves sweets “for breakfast, for dinner, for supper, and tea," inspiring a Halloween tradition: trick-or-treating for candy!

15 min

4+

Part One: The Story of Rami Hadid

Even though Martin is usually hesitant to meet new people, he is curious and excited to learn more about Rami and his stories about growing up in Syria.

26 min

4+

Part Two: Welcoming the Hadids

Martin is worried he might not have things in common with the Hadid children, but soon learns that indeed he does, including having pride.

27 min

4+

Part One: The Thinning of the Veils

As Martin & Sylvia begin preparing for the annual Fairy Ball, they are led on a treasure hunt after finding a map in their playroom.

22 min

3+

Part Three: Blessings

Martin and Sylvia's family share stories and traditions with the Hadid family including one about how an old couple changed the world by welcoming strangers into their home.

31 min

4+

Month Eleven: What Is Precious

The family learns that helping friends on their Day of Rest is precious.

20 min

4+

Part Ten: Whole World

The family realizes that Easter really is a whole world story that includes every season.

6 min

4+

Part One: Christmas Garden

Every year Martin and Sylvia’s family builds a Christmas-time Spiral Garden. This year the children want to do it themselves.

17 min

3+

Part One: Two Magic Words

In part one of three, Martin & Sylvia use the long drive to Grandma's house to bring gratitude into every part of the trip.

24 min

3+

A Circle of Light

Although Martin appreciates the coziness of autumn, he has been missing the long days of sunlight he enjoyed in the summertime. At Miss Melinda’s Spunderful Shop he learns sunlight hasn’t diminished — just transformed.

16 min

4+

Martin's Gold

Martin and Sylvia attempt to make their very own gold after learning about alchemy at the library.

19 min

3+

Part One: Secret Love Code

Martin & Sylvia find it difficult to keep their valentines tradition a secret...

22 min

3+

Trash Fairies

Sylvia ponders what kind of creature could be responsible for spreading trash all about their yard.

22 min

3+

The Grumpy Day

The family finds that getting messy and silly can wash away everyone's grumpiness...

18 min

3+

Sparkle Car #1: Our First Trip Together

Includes: An original Martin & Sylvia story, plus the Grimm story "The Bremen Town Musicians," a Norwegian story "East of the Sun and West of the Moon," and verses and car games.

63 min

3+

Feliz Gravidad

Martin and Sylvia invite their friends to a new festival that celebrates gravity in all of its forms. The family creates a joyful gathering that shows us how gravitational forces impact our world, our people, and all of the things we love best.

19 min

5+

Mother's Helper

Martin & Sylvia are reluctant "mother's helpers" but find it out it's really quite fun!

20 min

3+

Neighborhood

When Martin and Sylvia's family visit old friends who have moved away to a neighborhood, they learn the benefits of living in a neighborhood - and the benefits of living where they do - in the country.

18 min

3+

Babbit the Rabbit

Sylvia's fun with her special stuffed rabbit helps Martin see a whole new world of magic in his very own familiar back yard.

18 min

4+

Paddling to Treasure Island

When Daddy suggests they paddle to "Luck Island", they find out that the island does indeed have treasure, but not at all the kind they were expecting.

21 min

3+

Backyard Water Park

Martin & Sylvia create their own backyard water park to cool off from the heat.

18 min

3+

Putting on a Play

When the whole family is unexpectedly home at once on a very cold day, Martin & Sylvia put on a play, with Daddy as a sled dog!

18 min

4+

Let's Do Everything

Can Martin & Sylvia get through all of the fun ideas on their play date list?

18 min

3+

Sports from Scratch

Martin & Daddy try out a creative way to start a team.

19 min

3+

The Game of Zoo

One rainy morning, when Martin and Sylvia can't agree on what game to play, Momma suggests they build their own board game. When they play it with friends, it becomes even more fun!

20 min

3+

The Shortest Day

Brother and Sister celebrate the shortest day of the year by embracing the sun in all their activities.

22 min

3+

Playdate

Momma challenges Martin, Sylvia and friends to incorporate everyone's play ideas into one activity...

18 min

3+

Pick-Up League

Martin is too young to join the baseball team, so Daddy pulls together a creative and crazy game with friends and family.

18 min

4+

Summer Magic

Martin & Sylvia find it hard to wind down after a day of summer fun, especially when their Uncle Phil is visiting and the day is filled with exciting stories and games.

22 min

3+

The Cook Out

Visitors are returning to Martin and Sylvia's house — friends they haven’t seen in a year! When one of those friends isn't as kind as Martin remembers, Daddy gives him great advice about teasing and everything changes.

19 min

4+

Part One: The Spunderful Shop

When they find out that Miss Melinda, the proprietor of The Spunderful Shop, teaches classes, Martin and Sylvia are very excited!

21 min

3+

Catching Crayfish

Martin & Sylvia are sure the summer has arrived now that the crayfish have appeared in their brook. They spend the day figuring out how to catch some.

21 min

4+

A Woods-inar

Woodsies will be learning from a new instructor today — and it’s Martin! He’ll be teaching about a Nature Compass. One part hasn’t quite worked out yet, but everything comes together when inspiration strikes … in the shape of snacktime.

20 min

5+

What is Downstream

As Martin tromps through the woods, he happens upon his friend Ollie who joins his musings on magnetism and gravity, raising some new ideas. Could it be that Martin has discovered his hypothesis — and that it’s been right in front of him the whole time?

13 min

5+

Mother's Day

Daddy, Martin, and Sylvia help Momma realize what can make Mother's Day perfect.

16 min

4+

Even Better Than Sorry

One day with the Woodsies, Sylvia brings Bilby the puppy along and keeps an eye on him … until Bilby disappears. After the crisis resolves, Daddy and Sylvia have a long chat about what feels even better than apologizing.

20 min

5+

Can't Wait to Wait

Mr. Weber helps Sylvia learn fun ways to pass the time waiting for their food at the restaurant.

20 min

3+

Pay It Forward

Martin & Sylvia learn what it means to "pay it forward".

19 min

3+

Kings and Queens of the Forest

Martin feels he's missing out on helping Daddy and Sylvia with their May Day preparations but comes to have his own May Day fun at Wilderness School.

23 min

4+

May Day

It's May Day, and all Martin wants to do is join the big kids in the Maypole dance. Will he be brave enough?

18 min

4+

Keep Going!

Martin’s Science League is ready to present projects and learn which ones would be chosen for competition. Martin feels pretty confident about his work. But will he make it into the competition? And if not, will all that work have been for nothing?

14 min

5+

Squirrel Brigade

Sylvia is getting ready for her next gathering of Woodsies — and she's feeling stuck. Momma encourages Sylvia to watch and trust that the right idea will arise at the right time. Who knows what might happen?

12 min

5+

Listen to the Project

When Martin returns to Science League, his insecurities begin to intrude. What if his compass project isn’t very good? On an errand with Daddy, they discover that comparison can sometimes hamper creative thinking.

15 min

5+

Woodsies Isn’t Good

It's the first day of Woodsies, the wilderness group Sylvia has personally designed and planned. She's excited … until her plans go awry. Daddy shares teacherly wisdom that helps Sylvia learn to take unexpected developments in stride.

18 min

5+

Spring Seeing

Sylvia hunts for a fairy as she and Martin take a walk looking for signs of spring.

17 min

3+

An Inner Compass

When Martin hears about an upcoming science fair, his insecurities get the best of him. A conversation with Momma about the ways scientists conduct research projects helps him to know that experimentation and mistakes are part of the process.

17 min

5+

Martin Has the Nines

It's Martin’s ninth birthday! He wakes in the morning feeling pleased, but as the day progresses, he experiences a range of feelings. Is this what it means to be nine? A trip to the library with his family gives Martin some perspective on growing up.

22 min

5+

Projects

When everyone wakes with a separate project in mind, each need help but no one feels they have space to offer any. What to do?

17 min

3+

A Special Bath for You

Poor Daddy has a Christmas cold. Martin and Sylvia know just what to do: use their newfound love of herbal healing to make special soothing bath bombs!

15 min

4+

The Old and the New

Ella and Ollie are back! Martin and Sylvia’s neighbors and friends have returned home after a year in Cuba. What will Ella and Ollie be like? Together, they all learn about the joys of seeing old friends in a new light.

18 min

5+

The Drawing Contest

There's a children's’ drawing contest to celebrate Animal Week at the library. Martin wants to enter, but Pickles won't sit still for him to draw and there are no other animals around. What will Martin do?

21 min

4+

Part One: The Other Side of the World

Martin and Sylvia begin a penpal relationship with Ruby and Angus who live south of Sydney, Australia.

25 min

4+

Helping Hands

On a visit to town, Sylvia unexpectedly needs (and gets!) a helping hand.

18 min

4+

A Sylvia Kind of Seven

"Sevens" can do so many things! Sylvia relishes the newfound height, skills, and enthusiasm for life that comes with being seven. But she wonders: what was Martin like when he was seven years old? It turns out that not everyone does Seven in the same way.

15 min

5+

Spring Cleaning

It's Spring Cleaning Day, and friends Sasha and Jonathan help make it fun.

17 min

4+

Hidden Fairies

When Martin & Sylvia can't decide what to paint, Daddy suggests they let the paint decide. Sylvia is delighted to see something magical in one of the paintings!

19 min

3+

Living Room Camping

Daddy helps Martin & Sylvia enjoy the fun of camping even when it's too cold and dreary to do it outside!

17 min

3+

Apple Faces

Martin spends the day trying to find two identical apples.

18 min

3+

Spring Sillies

The family decides to have a "Spring Sillies Day" to let out all their spring energy... who will be the silliest family member?

21 min

3+

Springtime Fun and Foolery

It's the first week of spring and the house is abuzz with fun and foolery. Martin plans a suspicious treat, Daddy & Sylvia play a silly game, and Momma surprises everyone at dinnertime.

18 min

4+

Faces

Martin and Sylvia spend the day examining the similarities and differences in all the faces they see...

18 min

3+

A Case of the Giggles

Daddy teaches the kids how to prevent a "case of the giggles", but can he take his own advice?

16 min

3+

Grit

When Martin gets discouraged while making something special, Daddy tells him that the most important thing any builder or inventor must have is grit: sticking with it, especially when things are difficult.

18 min

3+

Eating Out

A special meal out gives the family an opportunity to experience a real French meal, and make new friends.

20 min

3+

Little House Day

Martin & Sylvia are inspired by a book they're reading to find all their food for the day within walking distance of their house. Luckily their neighbors are farmers!

23 min

3+

Comfort Food

When family friend Mr. Weber has surgery, they decide to cook for him. The family delights in learning how to cook carefully, slowly and how to fill the food with love.

21 min

4+

Camping Out

Martin wants to live alone in the forest in a hut he and Sylvia made, but Daddy suggests they first try tent camping in the backyard.

18 min

4+

The Special Magical Day

Martin wakes with a suspicion that it's going to be a special day, and he and Sylvia spend the day finding magic around every corner.

20 min

3+

This Is Camping

It's time for their annual camping trip and Martin and Sylvia are excited to enjoy all of their camping traditions. This year, they learn that camping means different things to different people.

19 min

4+

Part Five: Poppi's Story

Poppi tells a story about his first overnight camping trip with cub scouts and how the troop had to work together to move their tents in the middle of the night.

25 min

4+

The Dog Park

Is Billbill too old to go to the dog park, or will he make new friends?

17 min

3+

A Fine Town

When vacation is over too soon, Momma and Daddy help the children see their own town with fresh eyes.

16 min

4+

Snow Candles

Martin, Sylvia, and friends discuss different types of families while enjoying the day making snow candles.

22 min

4+

Waiting for the Sparkle

Martin is impatient for an idea about which to write a book... Daddy encourages him to wait for "the sparkle."

17 min

3+

Winter Wonder

Martin helps a friend who is missing her warm Arizona home to appreciate the gifts of Winter.

25 min

4+

The Let Go Approach

Daddy tries to help Martin learn to make decisions using the "let go approach" instead of overthinking things.

20 min

3+

A Year to Build a Day — Introduction to a Day of Rest

The family explores the idea for "A Day of Rest" to help recover from the busy holiday season.

24 min

4+

Holiday Delight

The holiday season has been filled with baking, crafting, decorating and celebrating but suddenly Martin & Sylvia have a day with no plans and don't quite know what to do!

17 min

3+

The Cabin

When Momma teaches her how to have ‘fox feet’ and ‘deer ears’ Sylvia suddenly finds the woods full of possibilities and indeed, animals.

22 min

4+

Touch of Nature

Martin learns to appreciate his senses besides "sight" as he explores the natural world using sound, smell and touch.

28 min

4+

A Tasty Good Morning

Martin and Sylvia love all kinds of delicious foods — and breakfast might just be their favorite family meal. Together with Momma and Daddy, they prepare a breakfast feast that is good enough for everyone to eat.

15 min

4+

A Little Bit of Light

When brother and sister have to change their annual lantern festival tradition, the magic of the evening shows Sylvia just how much can be seen with the light of a single lantern.

21 min

3+

Silly Speak Songs

Martin & Sylvia learn a silly way to write songs by attending a song writing workshop.

22 min

3+

Part Seven: Why is it Good?

Two creative projects help the children understand "Good Friday."

32 min

4+

The Goose Pond

Brother and sister can't agree on how to re-build the washed away goose pond. Only a true collaboration solves the question of how to make a proper goose pond!

15 min

4+

The Old Apple Tree and the Lambs Wool Blessing

At their neighbor's annual Cider Pressing Party, brother and sister find more than just apple treats — they get to hear stories from an old orchard man about apple tree magic and wonder.

21 min

3+

Month Ten: The Feeling of In-Between

In this busy season, brother and sister decide that they really want to bring in something new to their Day of Rest.

23 min

4+

Part Three: So Many Ways to Give Thanks

In the third and final Giving Thanks story, the family finds so many different ways to be thankful as they prepare and enjoy the holiday feast.

22 min

3+

The Great Scarecrow Mystery

Martin & Sylvia excitedly try to win a prize by hunting around town for the "scarecrow of the day".

17 min

3+

Part Two: Jack-O-Lanterns

Martin & Sylvia are disappointed that their pumpkins didn't grow very big, but are thrilled to find a creative and beautiful alternative to make jack-o-lanterns.

19 min

3+

Part Three: The Fairy Ball

Martin struggles to find all of the necessary items for entrance to the fairy ball until Momma teaches him a magical "finding trick".

22 min

3+

Home-Grown Thanksgiving

This year, Martin or Sylvia's parents have decided to host the event at home. Everything they eat will come from their own garden or from farms nearby! Martin and Sylvia wonder: what in the world will they eat?

18 min

3+

A Dragon Dance

For Martin, the dark nights of autumn can spark some worries, and right now his worries are all about dragons. Could Martin fight a dragon if he had to?

16 min

4+

All the Pretty Voices

Martin wakes up thinking about how different voices make him feel. This exploration continues at Wilderness School when they listen to the different "voices" of the birds.

20 min

4+

Go-to-Sleep Fairy

Sylvia helps Martin with his difficulty falling asleep by introducing him to the "go-to-sleep" fairy.

19 min

3+

How to Fly

When Martin asks, "Well, how do birds fly?", Momma suggests that they all try to answer the question in their own way.

21 min

3+

What Is Underneath

Martin gets to know his nature schoolmate, Alexander, by doing a project that reveals "what is underneath".

21 min

4+

The Color Is Always There

Martin, Sylvia and Nature School friends explore different ways to find color, even when the weather seems dreary and brown.

25 min

4+

Gargoyles

Martin finds just the thing to help protect him from his new fear of noises in the night.

15 min

4+

Part One: What to Do on Thursdays

In part one of four, Momma, Martin & Sylvia set intentions for how they want their "nature school" experience to be, and by the next day, they're on their way!

20 min

4+

The Sit Spot

After a day at Wilderness School, Martin tells his sister and Daddy about finding a "sit spot" or personal spot in the woods. Momma is too busy, but finally takes a minute for herself.

23 min

4+

Planting the Seeds of Summer Camp

Momma helps Martin feel less nervous about his upcoming summer camp by making a list of "seeds for summer camp" that help him think about his perfect camp experience.

19 min

4+

The Dark

Martin is feeling nervous about the dark, so Momma guides him through a hearing, smelling and feeling exercise that not only reassures him, but relaxes him enough to fall deeply asleep

16 min

4+

The Enchanted Frog

When Martin & Sylvia try to find something to do on their own, they can’t agree on a good idea. When they they find Mrs. Brown having her quiet “idea time” by the frog pond, they find the best magic flows from the quietest spot!

18 min

4+

A Breathing Day

The first day of school arrives for Martin and Sylvia and they are ready to roll up their sleeves and get to work. But before they jump into their school subjects, Momma and Daddy ask to discuss one more thing first: breathing.

16 min

4+

The Tiny House

Martin & Sylvia work hard to turn a tent into a tiny house!

18 min

3+

Part Three: Airport Vacation

In part three of five, Momma comes up with a fun way to pass the time in the airport during a travel delay.

32 min

3+

What Sandcastles Like

Martin & Sylvia learn that nature has it's own preferences...

20 min

3+

Wood Elves

When Martin decides he'd like to be a wood elf, Momma suggests that he just try - and he is surprised that he can do everything they do - with the help of a little magic and imagination!

21 min

3+

Part One: Are Superheroes Real?

When Martin and Sylvia learn about superheroes from their neighborhood friends, their curiosity is instantly piqued. What is a superhero? Are superheroes real?

16 min

4+

Super Raker

Why is it that Daddy never seems to tire when he's raking? Does he have superpowers? Maybe they ALL have superpowers!

19 min

4+

Discovery and Delight

As Sylvia waits eagerly for the Longest Night Bonfire she keeps herself busy by exploring her yard and finding some fairy magic!

16 min

3+

Fairy Snow Fort

When Sylvia wakes with a plan to build a Fairy Snow Fort, the whole family pitches in and experiences the joy of working together.

15 min

4+

Tag Sale

Sylvia learns the joy in giving away things she no longer uses...

21 min

3+

Many Hands

Brother and Sister learn that working together is not only important, but fun!

22 min

3+

The Cranky Show

Sylvia is cranky about a trip downtown, and then they come upon a cranky show!

18 min

3+

The Sick and Tired Day

What’s a Sick and Tired Day? With Momma's help, morning play, snack time, lessons, lunch and even clean-up time become fun!

16 min

4+

Nature Notes

Martin worries he won't be able to keep up with his schoolmates on a reading and writing assignment at Nature School.

24 min

4+

Night Magic

Martin braves his fear of the dark to enjoy the magic of the night.

19 min

3+

Good Old Dog

Sad news from Nana and Poppi about their old cat makes Martin and Sylvia appreciate Billbill and celebrate having him in their lives.

17 min

4+

A Frosty Walk

A beautiful frosty morning inspires Martin & Sylvia to thank the frost fairies with a gift of their own.

20 min

3+

Stone Soup

Together with friends, Martin & Sylvia enjoy the surprise ingredients that come together for their own "stone soup".

21 min

3+

Part Two: Four Kinds of Love

Martin & Sylvia explore four different kinds of valentines, and the different ways to share love with friends and family.

26 min

3+

Important to Us All

The family works together on a mural for their house after deciding on a theme that is important to all of them.

19 min

3+

Dreaming the Garden

Mr. Brown invites brother and sister over to help his garden dream!

19 min

3+

First Day

The downtown’s First Day celebration is here and the group decides to make Martin's idea for a snow sculpture. When Sylvia feels left out, who can help her create the snow sculpture of her imagination?

14 min

4+

A New Way to Paint

On this cold December afternoon, Daddy takes the children to his art studio where they pull out the paint and canvases and begin to create.

14 min

4+

Thank-You's

How can Martin be thankful when he is feeling so mad?

21 min

4+

A Book for You

Martin and Sylvia are enjoying all the festiveness of the holiday season. When Daddy tells them about an Icelandic Christmas tradition called Jolabokaflod that involves books and chocolate, their creativity kicks in.

17 min

4+

The Bud's Story

Martin's disappointment about being late for Nature School turns into excitement about the year ahead after learning about a tree bud's life cycle.

23 min

4+

Bittersweet

Sylvia helps Martin decide on the perfect gift for his friend for the last day of Wilderness School before the holiday break.

15 min

4+

Day Twelve: Lighting the Way

Day Twelve: As everyone does their part to prepare for the Twelfthnight celebration, they think things couldn't possibly get any better, until a surprise guest arrives.

45 min

4+

Day Eleven: Feast of Eleven Sails

Day Eleven: When the kids feel sad that the Kings night event won't be as they thought, Momma encourages them to go ahead and feel their disappointment.

24 min

4+

Day Two: Toys on the Doorstep

On the second day of Christmas Sylvia feels blue but then she and Martin listen to a Tullyport story and are inspired to bring Christmas joy to the Brown's granddaughter, Laura.

24 min

4+

Snow That Sticks

Martin & Sylvia try to encourage winter to come by focusing their creativity on snow related projects...

18 min

3+

Arctic Explorers

When Martin and Sylvia discover a sparkling winter landscape in their yard, Martin decides they need a real fire and a real cookout! When it begins to snow, he and Daddy are undaunted, just like the original arctic explorers.

20 min

3+

Singing Together

On the night of a downtown singalong, Martin & Sylvia they learn how important it is to ignore hearsay and "see for yourself"!

18 min

3+

The Chimney Sweep

When a bird is trapped in the chimney, Daddy calls Malcolm, the chimney sweep, to get the bird out safely.

21 min

3+

Lamb's Wool

When Martin's knitting plans require lots more wool, he and Sylvia scheme up ideas to get a sheep of their own...

18 min

3+

Festival of Lights

Martin discovers the similarities between all the festivals and holidays that take place during this time of year and he and Sylvia are inspired to create a festival of their very own.

20 min

4+

Winters Little and Big

When the first snow falls and brother and sister get the winter books down from the attic, they discover not only books that they dearly love, but also treasures that inspire sweet memories of years past.

18 min

4+

Family Farms

When the Brown's farm can't supply enough milk, Momma and Daddy take Martin & Sylvia to a farm run by three families. Brother and sister are resistant, but find the farm offers much more than they thought!

19 min

4+

Winter Dreams

Martin & Sylvia explore how sometimes dreams come true in unexpected ways...

25 min

3+

A Kitchen of Canning

Momma makes hard work fun for all — even cleaning up!

19 min

3+

Fruit Cake

Sylvia suggests that this year, they use "All the Things!" in Nanni and Poppi's fruit cake. Momma is hesitant but they set out to give it a try...

20 min

3+

Tree Keeper

Inspired by Martin's care of a special tree, Sylvia goes on the hunt for a perfect tree of her very own to "keep."

17 min

3+

Carrying Your Home

Martin & Sylvia work together to bring pieces of their home with them on their trip to the city.

22 min

3+

A Night for Stories

When the family spends an evening telling stories, Daddy says that stories almost always bring magic — but that evening, the magic surprises even Daddy.

25 min

3+

December 7: The Tree

December 7: The apple trees in Martin & Sylvia's yard lead them to another very special tree related to the advent season.

12 min

3+

Independence Day on the Green

Martin & Sylvia come up with a plan to help their dog Billbill through his fear of fireworks so everyone can enjoy the Independence Day celebrations.

19 min

4+

Apple Pies

Martin comes up with a secret ingredient for entry in Mr. & Mrs Brown's pie contest. Will his unique concoction win the competition?

20 min

4+

Día De Los Muertos

When Martin goes to his Spanish teacher’s house for his weekly lesson, he is impressed by all the decorations and learns about Día de los Muertos.

19 min

5+

Martin and Sylvia and the Generous Month

Martin & Sylvia learn about Ramadan and it's traditions from the Hadid family when they join them for the strawberry festival

38 min

4+

A Proper Uniform: A Story for Military Holidays

Seeing the military uniforms during the Memorial Day parade inspires Martin & Sylvia to ponder what an official explorer's uniform would look like, and results in family fun and creativity.

17 min

4+

A Proper Uniform: A Story for Military Holidays

Seeing the military uniforms during the Memorial Day parade inspires Martin & Sylvia to ponder what an official explorer's uniform would look like, and results in family fun and creativity.

17 min

4+

Mother Earth Art

Martin ponders messages for Momma's Mother's Day card while focusing on Mother Earth at Nature School.

25 min

4+

The Mud Oven

When Momma says that the Brown's are going to make a bread oven that is made out of mud, brother and sister are confused. Mud? How can you cook bread in something mud?

24 min

3+

Stuck in the Mud

The children wake up to melting snow and rain and they, along with some friends, spend the day getting stuck in the mud!

18 min

4+

Lemons and Mud

Without lemons, Martin & Sylvia can't follow through on their idea for a lemonade stand, but they have plenty of mud for a mud pie stand instead!

16 min

3+

Spring Thaw Paddle Tour

Sylvia decides to skip the paddle tour on the lake to stay home and cheer up her sick brother, Martin.

21 min

3+

Sheep and Shepherds

When Mr. Brown gives the children a chance to care for Pinochle and Raspberry, his new sheep, they also have a chance to learn about empathy.

19 min

3+

Little Sister

Daddy helps Martin understand little sisters, and realize the importance of being a big brother.

17 min

3+

The Snowball Factory

Martin asks Momma for help getting some separate time from Sylvia after becoming frustrated that Sylvia wants to do all the same things as him...

21 min

3+

December 25: Christmas Morning - Advent Memories

December 25: Early Christmas morning Martin & Sylvia talk about all the fun and joy their month of advent brought. Then Daddy says it's time for Christmas!

13 min

3+

December 24: Christmas Eve for Animals

December 24: The family is ready for Christmas and everything is prepared, but then they remember they still need to celebrate the animals in their yard.

19 min

3+

December 23: A Cleaning Party

December 23: Martin & Sylvia are excited about everything that will happen on the day of the advent spiral walk... everything except cleaning, that is.

15 min

3+

December 12: Spunderful Day

Day 12: While Martin is shopping for materials to make a gift for Sylvia, he finds some advent magic awaiting him as well.

13 min

3+

December 11: Storytelling Surprises

Day 11: Momma encourages Martin & Sylvia to find some fun in the grey day by doing a storytelling exercise to decide what to do.

12 min

3+

Sparkle Car #12: Trains Trains and Trains

Includes: an original Martin & Sylvia story, plus some classic folk tales.

57 min

3+

A Science Potion for Halloween

As Halloween approaches, Martin and Sylvia feel excited — except for a few lingering nervous feelings. Momma introduces them to the magic of herbs. What potions could they create to soothe their worries?

12 min

4+

The Sword Inside

Martin and Daddy explore whether knights are still knights without horses, armor and swords...

17 min

4+

Tracking

When an autumn snow doesn't stick, Martin and Sylvia's friends Jonathan and Sasha come up with an idea that melts all disappointment.

18 min

4+

A Hunting Morning

Mrs. Brown creates a popover treasure hunt where the kids must use their noses to find the yummy "treasure."

19 min

3+

No Boo Boo Day

Can Martin and Sylvia get through a busy work day with no boo boo's?

20 min

3+

Sticks

Martin & Sylvia decide to make everything out of sticks — from a playhouse to furniture and even toys!

20 min

3+

Month Twelve: Holding

Martin and Sylvia have the opportunity to use everything they have learned and practiced all year long

20 min

4+

Month Nine: Trial Run

Brother and sister propose that they make a plan for their Day of Rest within the coming school year.

24 min

4+

Month Eight: Sharing the Day

The family suddenly have an opportunity to share their Day of Rest with friends who are genuinely interested in what they are creating.

22 min

4+

Month Seven: A Call to Rest

Brother and Sister learn some traditions of the Jewish Sabbath, as well as the Muslim holy day of Friday.

32 min

4+

Month Six: Simplify Not Complify

Martin and Sylvia want to do everything, and they want to enjoy it all! Their parents help them find a simple, elegant solution

23 min

4+

Month Five: Service Sneaks

A Day of Rest challenge: all four members of the family want to do different things. They are inspired to enjoy being "service sneaks."

34 min

4+

Month Three: Work Is Fun and Fun Is Work

What do we do when something that is considered fun for one person is work for another? The "Day of Rest" experiment continues!

18 min

4+

Throwing a Party

Martin & Sylvia work hard to earn money for and throw a party for their parents and friends. On the day of the party, they feel a little nervous - what will it be like? Will everyone enjoy themselves?

21 min

4+

Month Two: Fun, Food, and Friends

Martin & Sylvia want to make their "Day of Rest" more fun - with friends! How will they make it happen?

23 min

4+

December 16: Forest Treasures

December 16: Sylvia is having a hard time finding acorn caps for the gift she's making for Momma until a scavenger hunt leads her to just the right treasure!

13 min

3+

Daddy's Toe

Martin & Sylvia learn what hard work it is to take on Daddy's responsibilities while he is healing his broken toe.

21 min

3+

Part Four: Cleaning the Garden

Inspired by the Australian's, the family make their own new Easter tradition.

16 min

4+

Part One: Family Orchard

A visit from Gramma, Nanni and Poppi inspires Martin with an idea for his scrapbook project, and helps Sylvia with her nervousness about her dance recital.

21 min

3+

A Land Verse

Over breakfast one morning, Martin and Sylvia get curious about the people who owned their house previously. What about people who lived here before them?

14 min

4+

Part Two: What Is Easter?

Martin and Sylvia learn about the Easter story by listening to a story from the Willowbee Tree series.

27 min

4+

Cousins

The cousins are coming! They only visit every few years, so the changes are BIG. It's not long before they remember, though, that cousins are special.

20 min

4+

Midsummers Eve

Martin & Sylvia try to throw their own Midsummer's Eve festival...

18 min

3+

Butterfly Gifts

Martin learns that the children who attend the town school give "teacher gifts" on the first day and suggests that Sylvia and he do the same for their teachers: Momma and Daddy.

22 min

3+

Trail Art

Martin, Sylvia, and friends spend time on their Mount Mooseberry hike making "trail art" markers of their own.

16 min

3+

A Morning Together Time

Martin and Sylvia begin their homeschool days singing and dancing during Morning Together Time. When Martin voices their time routine is too easy, Daddy finds a clever way to choose their levels of difficulty.

15 min

4+

The Spring Fairy Boat Show

The stream is flowing, and the whole family makes leaf boats on which the fairies can travel.

19 min

4+

A Gift from the Nature Table

Martin and Sylvia need some quiet time, but they’re having a hard time settling into it. Momma points them to the nature table, on which treasures from all year round sit.

14 min

4+

A Handwork Moment

Momma notices the children’s fidgety hands: “I think our hands are trying to tell us something,” she says. What they need is an afternoon of soothing handwork: knitting, crocheting, and sewing!

11 min

4+

A Wonderful Wormery

When Sasha starts telling Martin and Sylvia about the worms she is studying in science, Martin’s ears perk up. Perhaps they could study worms in homeschool?

12 min

4+

A Better Moment

Even Martin and Sylvia’s family have mornings when everyone feels rushed and out of sorts and starts snapping at each other. But what happens when someone notices something magical and invites others to experience it too?

12 min

4+

A Dowdling Song

On a visit to see her neighbor Mrs. Brown, Sylvia discovers something fascinating!

13 min

4+

A Forested Alphabet

Martin and Sylvia love their friends and enjoy planning activities that suit them uniquely. So when a visit with Griffin appears on the schedule, they know it’s time for some outdoor fun.

14 min

4+

A Time For Bulbs

When Martin sees his neighbor Ollie, he invites him to play — without anticipating that Ollie might be busy and irritable. Through conversation with Daddy, Martin learns how to wait just as bulbs need to wait to blossom.

17 min

4+

Everywhere Explorers

When Martin & Sylvia must spend the whole day in Momma's office they wonder if they can find something exciting to explore.

25 min

3+

Spring Fever

It's time for the annual Spring Fling and brother and sister are delighted — until they get sick. Will they miss out on all the fun?

18 min

3+

Grandma's Brownies

When Martin and Sylvia's family travels south to Grandma's House, Sylvia has one question - how many brownies can she have?

24 min

3+

Change Fairies

Martin explores different ways to think about fire and other things that go through changes.

22 min

4+

Dalmatian Valentine

A family storytelling game inspires Valentine's fun...

30 min

3+

Salamander Crossing

It's a once-a-year event: the Salamander Crossing! Oh, what an adventure!

23 min

3+

Westward Ho!

Martin & Sylvia explore the treasures uncovered by the receding of their brook after a flood.

20 min

3+

Sweetness

When the farm is surprised by a sudden ice storm, Mr. Brown is faced with a difficult decision about his favorite tree - and the children know just how to help.

23 min

3+

Messages

Martin makes a paper airplane in the hopes of sending a message to Nanni and Poppi about the snow storm surrounding their house.

15 min

3+

Family Portrait

Is family portrait day ruined when the photographer can't come? Not if Martin & Sylvia have anything to say about it!

18 min

3+

Wrappings

With the help of the apprentice at Nature School, Martin realizes what he is feeling — he is missing his sister, Sylvia.

24 min

4+

Pet Portraits

Martin & Sylvia work to create portraits of their pets, Billbill and Pickles, to add to the family's picture wall.

19 min

3+

Out in the Sticks

Martin and Sylvia each cope with frustration and disappointment in Nature School this week...

27 min

4+

Around the World

Martin is upset to get second pick on a project about different counties but ends up being very happy with his choice.

16 min

3+

The Tree Key

Momma teaches Martin & Sylvia how to identify different types of trees using a special book...

16 min

3+

The Treeclimber's Code

When Martin wants to climb an extra tall maple tree, Daddy introduces him to the three rules of The Treeclimber's Code.

19 min

3+

They Were Here

Martin considers whether people, as well as animals, make an impact on the forest, just by visiting it.

23 min

4+

Butterflies

When Martin prepare to recite a poem in front of an audience, he learns that the fluttery feeling in his belly is called 'having butterflies'.

20 min

3+

Rainy Day Help

Martin & Sylvia learn that helping friends can make you feel just as warm and fuzzy as cuddling inside on a rainy day.

18 min

3+

Like Cats and Dogs

Martin & Sylvia consider how they are similar to all sorts of different animals...

17 min

3+

School

Martin & Sylvia discuss the different kinds of school with new friends at the Brown's farm.

17 min

3+

Super Silks

Daddy suggests a costume contest to prove that silks can be used to make just about any costume...

18 min

3+

A Better Bird Feeder

Brother and sister search for ways to make a better bird house...

25 min

3+

Dog Show

Martin & Sylvia learn about all kinds of dogs at the dog show.

20 min

3+

Medals

Martin is eager to win a gold medal so he and Sylvia create an event that give everyone the chance to win a medal of their own.

16 min

3+

Treasure Indeed

Martin & Sylvia find unexpected treasure on their "pirate" treasure hunt...

19 min

3+

Goose Eye Wilderness School

When Momma and Daddy enroll him in a local wilderness school, Martin has the opportunity to experience adventures in the wild -- both unexpected and satisfying.

21 min

4+

Art Walk

Martin & Sylvia embrace all things artistic during the town Art Walk.

19 min

3+

A Map of the Year

Martin & Sylvia create a learning map for their school year.

16 min

3+

Protectors

A nice police officer help Martin & Sylvia learn what police really do.

18 min

3+

The Fairy Ferry

A dinner adventure leads Sylvia on a hunt to find fairies ... on a ferry!

26 min

3+

The In-Between

When the family takes a day-trip to the ocean, Martin and Sylvia discover that fairy magic can appear in the most unlikely places.

17 min

4+

Nippy Knitting Day

Cold weather inspires Martin & Sylvia to do a knitting project.

16 min

3+

Four Kinds of Pickers

It is blueberry season and when Nanni and Poppi come to visit, Poppi teaches Sylvia that there are four different kinds of blueberry pickers. Which kind are you?

18 min

3+

Magic Tricks

After seeing a magician, the whole family is inspired to perform magic tricks... who will be the best magician in the family?

20 min

3+

A Better Way

Martin & Sylvia have fun organizing their school supplies to prepare for the year ahead.

16 min

3+

Jam Poetry

A bumper crop of apricots inspires poetry!

18 min

3+

Sock Puppets

Martin & Sylvia learn to make use of something that seems useless.

20 min

3+

Dirt

When brother and sister visit a farmer friend who doesn't mind a little dirt inside the house, they wonder if maybe Momma and Daddy might not mind a little dirt in their house either.

20 min

3+

The Picky Day

Momma helps Martin & Sylvia turn their picky moods into productive fun.

14 min

3+

So Much Kale

The garden is doing great! But what do you with so much kale?

23 min

3+

Theater Camp

Martin invites Sylvia to play a special role in his theater camp performance.

23 min

3+

Pirates

Pirates have invaded Lake Days! Could that be Martin in the black pirate’s hat? Could that be Sylvia at the helm of the pirate canoe? Could that be Daddy leading them to invade a friend’s sailboat and attempt to steal some "booty"?

17 min

4+

Burger Night and the No No Bug

Martin and Sylvia's family is excited about a new offering by a local farm: Burger Night! Except Sylvia - she's not excited at all. How can they convince her to take a chance on something new?

19 min

3+

House in the Brush

Martin & Sylvia must find a creative way to incorporate their "pioneer homes" into the new garden.

20 min

3+

The Tides

Martin and Sylvia's family are taking a trip to the coast of Maine and the children learn all about the amazing natural rhythm of "the tides".

19 min

3+

Puppy Sitting

Martin & Sylvia learn that puppies are as much work as they are fun!

22 min

3+

Song of the Hermit Thrush: Part Two

As Wilderness School comes to a close for the year, Martin realizes he learned a lot about the natural world, but even more about himself.

31 min

4+

Explorer Pig

Sylvia has fun imagining where the Brown's new piglet, Explorer Pig, goes on adventures when he escapes his pen.

16 min

3+

Strawberry Slushy Siesta

It's strawberry-picking season, and Martin is feeling competitive!

20 min

3+

A Trip to the City

Martin wakes one morning to see Momma and Daddy packed and ready for an adventure: they’re all going to the Big City!

19 min

4+

Song of the Hermit Thrush: Part One

Martin wonders which Wilderness School group he will be part of as he listens to the descriptions of each and feels like he could belong to them all.

35 min

4+

Rainbows

Can Martin & Sylvia chase away the rain by making a rainbow?

18 min

3+

Names of Green

Martin & Sylvia inspire their favorite librarian when they try to name all the shades of green.

18 min

3+

Animal Hospital

Martin & Sylvia eagerly collect herbs and teas to help their dob Billbill and other sick animals... but can they find any patients?

15 min

3+

Trusting the Forest

Martin tries to understand why his friend Alexander doesn't want his father to attend the Goose-eye evening program.

29 min

4+

Silly Sun Hats

Martin & Sylvia have a great time decorating special sunhats for their sailing trip with the Webers.

19 min

3+

Green Up!

When Martin & Sylvia find out that roadside cleanup includes wearing reflective vests, their imaginations begin to spin...

21 min

3+

Nature School Apprentice

Martin is reluctant to participate in Sylvia's Nature School until Momma asks him if he'll be the apprentice and share his knowledge with the younger kids.

20 min

4+

Spies and Double Agents

Martin and Julian play spies without Sylvia. Momma teaches her how to become a double agent - who spies on spies!

17 min

3+

The Woodpecker Tree

When it's time to take down the Woodpecker Tree, Karl the playful woodsman teaches Martin and Sylvia about trees, cutting firewood, and a secret way to stay safe from black flies!

20 min

4+

Peg Doll Party

While cleaning out the attic, Martin & Sylvia find a box of wooden pegs that have a delightful history.

16 min

3+

Calling It Done

Martin worries if he's tried hard enough to create a new invention for carrying chicken eggs...

15 min

3+

Smelling Your Way

A trail of ants inspires scent guessing games and then a grand hunt for treats using nothing but noses!

17 min

3+

When You Need Your Numbers

Martin learns to appreciate math by counting all the ways he uses it throughout the day...

16 min

3+

When Pigs Fly

Sylvia has trouble hearing stories that she thinks she should tell instead —until Mrs. Brown explains that stories like to hear how others tell them.

18 min

3+

The Cruds

Will a case of "the cruds" keep Martin from joining Daddy on his birthday canoe ride?

20 min

4+

Bugged by Bugs

Martin tries not using bug spray at Wilderness School and finds that it's hard not to be bugged by the bugs!

23 min

4+

Ramps and Rapunzel

Momma uses a fairy tale to teach Martin & Sylvia about conserving resources in nature.

19 min

3+

Part Five: The Train! The Train!

In part five of five, Sylvia helps the family to be patient and continue enjoying the vacation even though they are tired and nearing the end of their journey.

23 min

3+

Chickens

Mr. Brown shares a story about he overcame his fear of dogs to help Sylvia's friend conquer her fear of chickens.

20 min

3+

Star, the Little Goat Kid

Martin& Sylvia are excited when Mr. Brown's goat gives birth to three babies. Unfortunately one baby does not survive and the kids learn that sometimes sadness is part of life on the farm.

21 min

4+

A Hat for That

Ellie the babysitter has such wonderful and creative ideas for play. She can think of a hat for everything... even for naps!

18 min

3+

The Chicken Coop

Martin & Sylvia pitch in to repair the Browns' chicken coop before the new baby chicks arrive...

23 min

3+

Signs of Spring

Momma creates a springtime game that transforms impatient waiting into springtime magic.

19 min

4+

Part Four: Meeting New Friends...and Neighbors?

Martin and Sylvia’s curiosity about Daddy’s work friend and his family intensifies as they prepare to meet for a bite to eat.

16 min

4+

Part Three: Neighbor Visioning

Martin and Sylvia’s family talk together about what they hope for in the new neighbors. As each family member shares their different perspective, their anticipation and wonder grow

13 min

4+

Part Two: Who Will Move In?

As Martin and Sylvia’s family visits with their neighbors and talk about the future, it suddenly dawns on them that they will soon have new neighbors. What will they be like?

13 min

4+

Sugaring Together

Martin is upset to miss the first day of sugaring at home, but is surprised to learn he'll be teaching the sugaring lesson at wilderness school!

21 min

4+

Digbe and Firble

When the children complain that they are tired of playing out the same books over and over, Momma suggests they make up their own story!

18 min

3+

Big Brother

Martin is having a bad day. Luckily, Momma and Daddy have a plan!

17 min

4+

Part One: Visioning

Martin and Sylvia learn that their neighbors are moving away. Where will they live next? And will Rufus, their energetic dog, still have enough room to run around?

14 min

4+

Talking Stick

Martin and his friend, Alexander, use a "talking stick" to work out a plan for their day of activities at camp.

20 min

4+

St. Patrick's Day

Martin & Sylvia are ready for spring, but all they see is SNOW. Momma comes home with a St. Patrick's Day surprise to cheer them up!

16 min

4+

Maple Perfect

A change in weather means it's time to check the maple trees for sap... is it time to make delicious syrup?

22 min

3+

Fairy Detectives

Could there be fairy magic afoot in the house? Martin and Sylvia form a "fairy detective agency" to find out.

18 min

4+

A Geometry of Hearts

Martin uses geometry to explore shapes at the Goose-eye Camp, and realizes math can be useful and fun.

21 min

4+

The Gift of Sweetness

Sylvia and Mrs. Brown discover how much the Browns' special maple tree, "Sweetness", has to offer.

18 min

3+

Cabin Fever

After three days of solid snow, Martin, Sylvia, Momma, and Daddy have cabin fever. Momma sends them all outside, but doesn't she have cabin fever too?

18 min

3+

Going on a Date

After a day of Martin working with Daddy, and Sylvia working with Momma, they go on "dates" to their favorite places in town, ending the day in a fun surprise.

19 min

4+

Mouse Houses

Sylvia and Momma attempt to make some tiny houses around the forest, perfect for the mice who live there.

14 min

3+

Four in One Snow Forts

Martin & Sylvia and friends work together to incorporate all their different ideas into one amazing snow fort.

16 min

3+

A Trip to Grandma's

Martin and Sylvia are going on a road trip to Grandma's! But they've never been in the car together for that long before. What will they do, stuck in the car for all that time?

20 min

4+

The Organizing Bug

Martin & Sylvia join Momma in organizing the house — working together to get the job done, but each using their own unique method...

15 min

3+

Family Dance

Martin learns some fancy steps at a Family Dance!

19 min

3+

How to Build a Nest: A Story of Different Family Models

Together with their friends, Martin & Sylvia explore birds nests, and in the process, learn about the different ways "home" can look for animals, and people.

26 min

5+

Sparkle Car #10: The Magic Path

Includes: a long, original Martin & Sylvia story plus some lovely poems.

59 min

3+

December 10: Library Magic

December 10: Martin gets an idea for what to make Daddy for Christmas from an unexpected source.

11 min

3+

Part Three: Looking for Mermaids

In the third and final part of this summer adventure story, Sylvia and her cousin find some magical clues along their search for a real mermaid.

15 min

3+

Visiting the New Baby

Martin & Sylvia experience the wonder of meeting a new baby for the first time.

19 min

3+

Telling the Truth

Sylvia accidentally breaks one of Martin's inventions and blames the damage on their cat Pickles. Sylvia feels miserable, until Momma whispers something in her ear...

19 min

4+

Friend Cake

Sylvia has a fun dream that inspires her to make "friend cake". When she and Martin and Momma take it to a friend, they realize it can be not only for old friends, but for new friends, too!

20 min

3+

Part Four: At Home in the Clouds

In part four of five, Martin & Sylvia meet a new friend on the plane, and together they invent the most fun airplane game ever!

28 min

3+

Animal Games

Martin & Sylvia help a sensitive friend cope with an overwhelming event...

22 min

3+