Papa is asked to give an after dinner speech and is nervous about doing so. His family thinks he'll do fine but Papa signs up for a course. Things get confused but Papa does his talk to the approval of Mama and the children.
The school is prepared to have Katrin skip a grade providing she passes the necessary test. Katrin is confident of her abilities but the rest of the family anxiously awaits the results.
Katrin learns of a writing contest that a newspaper is running just for youngsters. Katrin is determined to win but has trouble deciding on a subject until she thinks of Uncle Chris. Mama has her doubts.
The Hansens are excited with Christmas approaching. Mama relates a tale from her Norwegian childhood for her family one evening leaving them in a reflective mood.
Mama is called away leaving Papa in charge of housekeeping and 3 rambunctious children. His wife's absence makes Papa appreciate the seemingly ease Mama runs things.
Papa has accepted the position as foreman and the gentle man soon faces a dilemma. A young Norwegian immigrant has been hired but has no woodworking skills. Papa must decide how to terminate the lad be from the job.
Nels intends to try out when his school puts on Shakespeare play. Nels is thrilled to be selected for a part until he learns the character is female. Mama urges him to do his best in spite of his disappointment.
Dagmar has made a new friend but the child's behavior has both Mama and Papa unhappy. Afraid of the pal being a bad influence on Dagmar the Hansens try to bring an end to the two girls being together.
Mama offers advice over the phone to a friend facing family problems. Mama has forgotten that people might be listening in and turning conversations into gossip.
Katrin begins to resent her father because of how strict he is when she dates. Mama explains to her daughter that Papa is only acting out of love for his family.
As his education progresses Nels begins to feel superior to those who don't have a degree. Nels gets his comeuppance when he learns a difficult lesson about judging people.