{"title":"Crafts","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"beautiful-craft-stick-snowflake-ornament-craft-a6901","title":"Beautiful Craft Stick Snowflake Ornament Craft!","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Ornaments-Cover.jpg\" alt=\"\" data-pin-hover=\"true\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese simple craft stick snowflakes, inspired by the adorable button snowflakes we found over at \u003ca target=\"blank\" href=\"http:\/\/www.redtedart.com\/2012\/11\/28\/snowflakes-crafts-buttons\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eRed Ted Art\u003c\/a\u003e, would make a great addition to your crafting plans this winter! Perfect as a holiday project, or even homemade gift, these ornaments not only make fun Christmas decorations, they'll also add a festive touch throughout the winter season!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch1 style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eMaterials\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003ecraft sticks (3 for each ornament)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003ewhite craft paint\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003epaint brush\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003ecraft glue\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003ewhite\/clear beads and buttons\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003ewhite\/silver craft puffs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003eiridescent glitter {optional}\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch1 style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eCreating the Ornaments\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003eStart by painting the craft sticks with white craft paint. [NOTE: If you plan to use glitter, sprinkle it onto the craft sticks while the paint is still wet\/tacky.]\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Ornaments-Step1.jpg\" alt=\"\" data-pin-hover=\"true\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003eOnce dry, glue the craft sticks together to create a snowflake shape.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Ornaments-Step2a.jpg\" alt=\"\" data-pin-hover=\"true\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e \u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Ornaments-Step2b.jpg\" alt=\"\" data-pin-hover=\"true\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003eWhen the glue has set, use the beads, buttons, and craft puffs to decorate the snowflake shapes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Ornaments-Step3a.jpg\" alt=\"\" data-pin-hover=\"true\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Ornaments-Step3b.jpg\" alt=\"\" data-pin-hover=\"true\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003eFinally, attach a piece of ribbon to the decorated snowflakes and use them to decorate! They fit perfectly on the Christmas tree, but they'd also look great strung together to create a garland, hung on a window, or even hung from the ceiling!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Ornaments-Step4-Edited.jpg\" alt=\"\" data-pin-hover=\"true\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1721312968729,"sku":"A6901","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Ornaments-Cover.jpg?v=1522258129"},{"product_id":"halloween-language-arts-a1006","title":"Creepy Contractions Halloween Language Arts Bulletin Board Idea","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-44 \" title=\"Creepy Contractions\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Creepy-Contractions.jpg\" alt=\"Halloween Math Bulletin Board Idea\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: www.izzyshare.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen her unit on contractions fell over the week of Halloween, Betsy McKnight, fourth grade teacher and bulletin board contributor to Izzyshare, found herself in a unique position. Instead of allowing the themes to remain mutually exclusive, she incorporated the two inventing \"Creepy Contractions\"!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch1\u003eCreepy Contractions Activity\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou can do this activity one of two ways: find a pre-designed haunted house coloring page and have your students build from there or provide construction paper for your students to design their own house. However you decide to do it, make sure the house design has plenty of windows.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan id=\"more\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\nEncourage your students to color or decorate their creations and cut them out. Next, have them carefully use scissors (kids safety scissors depending on their age) to create window flaps that will open out. This part may be tricky so make sure you're around to assist. With this successfully accomplished, mount the cutout onto a piece of construction paper (black, orange, or yellow to keep with the Halloween theme). As the glue dries, invite your students to use brainstorm a list of common contractions and the original words they're derived from.\n\u003cp\u003eOnce everything is set, have your students finish the exercise by neatly penning the contractions on the front of the house windows then open the flaps and write the original words on the construction paper underneath. Not only are these make festive classroom decorations, they're also perfect study aids!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch1\u003eCreepy Contractions Bulletin Board\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBackground:\u003c\/strong\u003e Black bulletin board paper.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTitle:\u003c\/strong\u003e \"Creepy Contractions\".\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBorder:\u003c\/strong\u003e Any Halloween-themed bulletin board border (e.g. candy corn, pumpkins, ghosts, etc.)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdd a few characters from your Halloween bulletin board sets and you'll be set! Contractions and Halloween - who knew?!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eGot any Halloween ideas? Ever paired two opposite topics together for a sensational bulletin board? We'd love to hear about it so leave us a comment!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734073679897,"sku":"A1006","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Creepy-Contractions.jpg?v=1522781511"},{"product_id":"a-handy-craft-to-inspire-the-imagination-a1823","title":"A Handy Craft To Inspire The Imagination","description":"\u003cp\u003eIt's amazing to see a child's imagination in action. It seems that they can run around for hours developing and acting out pretend scenes. While entertaining and fun, make-believe is also an important part of child development, encouraging the expression of feelings and thoughts and building vocabulary. Additionally, with \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-62-pretend-play.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003epretend play\u003c\/a\u003e, essential social skills are being stimulated and fostered as they work together to agree on pretend 'rules' and roles. \n\nIn classrooms with younger children, it is important to set aside space and time to encourage this type of imagination. Stock a tote with various hats, masks, and costumes to inspire your students' creativity. Another great way to prompt imagination is through craft time; providing students with the opportunity to design their own props for play. Try the \"Hand Print Mask Craft\" from About.com. Students will enjoy tracing their hands and using glitter and feathers to decorate. A handy craft for those days when creativity seems to be lacking!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/familycrafts.about.com\/od\/makingmasks\/ss\/HandPrintMaskCraft.htm\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eHand Print Mask Craft - How to Make a Mask using Hand Prints\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNeed to replace your \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-276-classroom-rugs-classroom-carpets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eclassroom carpets\u003c\/a\u003e?  Check out our great selection today!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734073876505,"sku":"A1823","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"create-drawing-surfaces-that-are-re-useable-a1822","title":"Create Drawing Surfaces That Are Re-Useable","description":"\u003cp\u003eIn the spirit of reducing wasted supplies and resources, here is a great alternative to traditional art presented by Chica and Jo. Using a simple scrapbook frame with a glass insert, creative paper scenes, and assorted colors of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-84-dry-erase-overhead.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003edry erase markers\u003c\/a\u003e you can create an easily updated and re-usable drawing surface!  A great activity to keep in the classroom for children to use during free-time, you can change background paper and scenes to correlate with units of study, encouraging your students to illustrate the concepts learned. \n\nOf course, free form drawing and student creativity are also to be encouraged. If desired for use in a classroom of younger students, supplies should be kept in a safe place and children supervised during participation in the  activity to prevent messes and accidents. Additionally, it is advantageous to provide dry erase markers that are low odor and make sure the area of use is well ventilated to manage fumes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.chicaandjo.com\/2010\/02\/16\/creative-drawing-surface\/\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eCreative and re-usable drawing surface | Chica and Jo\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHaving an \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-276-classroom-rugs-classroom-carpets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eeducational carpet\u003c\/a\u003e in the classroom is great for circle time and a learning aid!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734074040345,"sku":"A1822","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"fun-with-complimentary-colors-a1817","title":"Fun with Complimentary Colors","description":"\u003cp\u003eNow that you've explored the color wheel and discussed the concepts of opposite or complimentary colors, here's a great application activity designed by Faige Kobre, creator of \"Educational Art Thoughts\" blog, to ensure student comprehension. Have the children paint a scene following specific directions; a yellow sun, green grass, blue sky, red house, purple tree trunks, and orange leaves for the trees. Once completed, instruct them to create the same picture by painting objects with their color opposites. \n\nFor older children you may choose to provide a color wheel as a helpful reminder, but let them complete the activity on their own. In a classroom of smaller children, it may be desirable to list objects on the board and decide as a class which colors should be used. Either way, your students will gain a better understanding of complimentary colors when they're able to view the pictures side by side.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/educationalartsandcrafts.com\/blog\/kids-painting-learning-colors\/\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eEducational Art Thoughts » Kids Painting: Learning Opposite Colors\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNeed a new \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-276-classroom-rugs-classroom-carpets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003erug for classroom\u003c\/a\u003e circle time?  Take a look at our great selection today!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734074073113,"sku":"A1817","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"a-smashing-safari-african-elephants-a1826","title":"A Smashing Safari: African Elephants","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe African elephant is the largest land mammal on the planet. Not only do these animals offer many unique teachable moments, their sheer magnitude will be enough to snag your students’ interest. When gearing your lessons for younger students, pick out facts that they can appreciate. For instance, elephants only have four teeth that they can lose and have replaced up to six times in their lifetime. They’ll also be interested to learn that elephants can project sound up to five miles! Students will be amazed that even with the use of a \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-5648-megaphone.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003emegaphone\u003c\/a\u003e or other sound amplification system, someone five miles away would never be able to hear them. It can be fun to bring a megaphone, take your students outside, and let them try!\n\nAdditionally, elephants have the ability to detect water flowing beneath the ground. Using the classroom’s sand and water table you can demonstrate how elephants use their tusks, trunks, and large feet to dig for water beneath the surface. After they’ve learned what amazing creatures elephants are use fun crafts to ignite their creativity and imagination. About.com offers instruction on how to create your own \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/familycrafts.about.com\/cs\/zoowildanimals\/l\/blelehb.htm\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eelephant ears headband\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/familycrafts.about.com\/od\/elephantcrafts\/a\/ElephantTrunkCraft.htm\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003etrunk\u003c\/a\u003e. Students can set up chairs in rows of two and take turns pretending they’re ‘elephant watching’ on an African safari.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNeed new \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-276-classroom-rugs-classroom-carpets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003erugs for classroom\u003c\/a\u003e circle time?\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734074105881,"sku":"A1826","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"a-creative-twist-on-cutting-a1827","title":"A Creative Twist on Cutting","description":"\u003cp\u003eIt’s true that \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-166-kids-scissors.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ekid's scissors\u003c\/a\u003e have improved in both safety and functionality over the years. Designed specifically for small hands with blunt edges to ensure against accidents, using these tools exercises and develops fine motor skills like coordination and accuracy. Unfortunately, they have a tendency to be bulky, allowing less precision on more detailed objects. The creator of “Mini Cuties” offers a practical solution for these frustrating situations—a jumbo pushpin and a small piece of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-441-bulletin-boards-cork-boards.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ecork board\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-625-felt-sheets-9-x-12.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003efelt\u003c\/a\u003e!\n\nStudents who are having trouble maneuvering their scissors to reach small, angular areas can use the pushpin to ‘perforate’ the outline of the object, pulling away the remaining paper to reveal the desired shape. This technique doesn’t leave as clean of an edge as scissors will, but it is still an effective and safe alternative. Students test the limits of their dexterity as they try to follow the object’s outline, feel a sense of accomplishment when they don’t have to ask for help, and skip the frustrations associated with plastic safety scissors!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.minicuties.com\/2009\/03\/how-to-cut-paper-without-scissors.html\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eMini Cuties: How to Cut Paper without Scissors?\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGreat selection of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-276-classroom-rugs-classroom-carpets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eeducation rugs\u003c\/a\u003e and learning carpets!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734074138649,"sku":"A1827","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"neither-snow-nor-rain-nor-heat-a1830","title":"“Neither snow, nor rain, nor heat…”","description":"\u003cp\u003eSpring, summer, and fall easily lend themselves to fun, season-inspired projects, with Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas right behind. But what about those dreaded months between New Years and the beginning of spring? Weather conditions generally do not permit outside excursions so the only platform available for activities is restricted to the classroom and other approved parts of the school building. If you find yourself in this situation, introducing a unit of study focused on the Postal Service can offer versatility and fun.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYour kindergartners might know that grandma, who lives in Florida, sends a birthday card every year, but they might not understand how it gets there. Your seventh graders understand the significance of house numbers, street names, and zip codes, but may not grasp how important the Postal Service is to our economy. Lessons, activities, and crafts can be tailored to age and skill levels.\n\nYounger children will enjoy making and decorating their own mailboxes. \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.educatall.com\/page\/342\/Recycled-Mailbox.html\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eAllison McDonald\u003c\/a\u003e offers a great guide for this craft using ordinary materials found around the house. In preparation for the craft, children can collect these supplies and bring them to class. By passing out blank envelopes or postcards with names of classmates, children can practice name recognition and ‘delivering’ packages to the correct mailbox. A fun variation is to partner with other teachers on the floor and send special messages to each other throughout the week.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSupplement these fun activities with appropriate reading. \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.educatall.com\/page\/343\/Postal-services---Book-suggestion.html\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eAllison McDonald\u003c\/a\u003e suggests A Snowy Surprise written by Amy Hest. Other books and resources include: About the Post Office (Out \u0026amp; About) by Sue Barraclough, Caillou Sends A Letter by Joceline Sanschagrin, and Owney, the mail-pouch pooch by Mona Kerby.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGet a \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-276-classroom-rugs-classroom-carpets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003echeap classroom rug\u003c\/a\u003e today!  Great quality and prices.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734074236953,"sku":"A1830","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"picture-this-a1831","title":"Picture This!","description":"\u003cp\u003eChildren have such pure and giving hearts. You usually don’t have to ask twice if they’d like to make something special for mom or dad. And of course, parents cherish the keepsakes created by their children; most have a drawer or tote of cards, drawings, and projects to prove it!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEspecially when teaching younger children, important skills and lessons to be learned are often acquired under the guise of fun, hands-on activities. Ask your students to find a picture of themselves with one or both of their parents. If they’re young enough that they’ll need help locating a photograph, charge them with secrecy. If they can keep it, having a fun secret will only increase the anticipation and excitement of both parent and child.\n\nThere are certainly many ways to make a picture frame. And many different kinds of picture frames at that! The creator of “Mini Cuties” offers a unique perspective of the craft. Students will practice counting as they select the correct number of jumbo Popsicle sticks from the supply table. Fine motor skills will be put to the test as the children line up and glue the craft sticks. Additionally, students will test their dexterity as they glue their picture to backing, secure the backing to the Popsicle stick base, and cut out construction paper shapes for decoration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYarn can be attached to the finished product to create a hanging photo, magnetic strips can be fashioned to the back so that it can be mounted on the refrigerator, or, left as is, parents can prop the frame up on an end table or dresser. A craft that is so much fun students won’t know they’re learning!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.minicuties.com\/2009\/10\/simple-but-very-unique-picture-frame.html\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eMini Cuties: A Simple but very Unique Picture Frame\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe carry a great variety of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-276-classroom-rugs-classroom-carpets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003echeap classroom rugs\u003c\/a\u003e with great quality!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734074269721,"sku":"A1831","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"when-math-and-art-collide-a1834","title":"When Math and Art Collide…","description":"\u003cp\u003eMath can be a tedious subject for many students. A great way to appeal to their interest is to integrate the subject with something that they do enjoy. Tammy Andrew suggests linking math with art by creating a concept collage proposing that this activity “gives them [students] the opportunity to consider the concept in a different way and then visually explain it”. In her article, Andrew offers guidance on choosing topics for exploration, materials needed, and time allowances.\n\nIn her experience, younger children respond well to geometric concepts. Kindergarten and first grade students who have spent time on shape identification can search through magazines for pictures of squares, triangles, circles, etc. to use in their collages. Older students can use magazine cutouts, other materials, and their creativity to explore many relevant topics including: area, perimeter, volume, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-109-time.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003etime\u003c\/a\u003e, statistics, graphing, trigonometry, and even, calculus.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis can be a great activity to complete at the beginning of each unit to gather what students already know about the concept or can be used to assess what students have learned once a unit has been completed. By making math relevant to your students, you will increase the lesson’s effectiveness and enhance each student’s learning experience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/classroom-activities.suite101.com\/article.cfm\/creating-a-math-collage\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eCreating a Math Collage: Physical Activity to Explore Mathematical Concepts\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHuge selection of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-276-classroom-rugs-classroom-carpets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eclassroom area rugs\u003c\/a\u003e!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734074368025,"sku":"A1834","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"a-sweet-st-patrick-s-day-treat-a1842","title":"A Sweet St. Patrick’s Day Treat","description":"\u003cp\u003eWhile the school day usually passes by as usual on March 17th, the absence of a classroom party doesn’t mean all fun should be checked at the door. While the traditional green punch and cupcakes is a class favorite, Sherri Osborn provides a fun and simple alternative for St. Patrick’s Day sweets in the classroom.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou may be able to find pre-cut tulle circles at your local craft store, but a small roll of green tulle will certainly do the job as well. If working with a roll, you’ll need to cut a piece of tulle for each student in your class. The diameter of each piece should measure about 8-inches. Once this has been completed, divide up a bag of Hershey kisses so that each student will receive two or three candies. These candies should then be placed in the center of the tulle. Next, gather up the sides of the tulle, securing it with a green ribbon just above the candy.\n\nOn festive \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-182-crafting-paper.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ecraft paper\u003c\/a\u003e or card stock use a green fine-tip marker to pen or a word processing program to print the following poem:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHere's a wee present for you\nFull of luck and wishes\nCelebrate this St. Patrick's Day\nWith these Leprechaun Kisses!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTrim around the poem and paste to a piece of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-7203-tru-ray0174-construction-paper-12-x-18-holiday-green.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003egreen construction paper\u003c\/a\u003e to create a thin accent border. Finish off these sweet treats by punching a hole near the edge of the poem, stringing it onto the ribbon, and then tying the ribbon into a pretty bow. Your students will be pleasantly surprised to find these treats waiting for them on their desks. A variation of this project is to bring the materials to class and have your students make one of these sweet treats for someone special!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/familycrafts.about.com\/od\/leprechauns\/a\/LeprechaunKissesCraft.htm\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eLeprechaun Kisses Craft - How to Decorate a Frame With Candy\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-276-classroom-rugs-classroom-carpets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eLearning rugs\u003c\/a\u003e are great for classrooms because they can be used for so many different things!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734074662937,"sku":"A1842","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"story-characters-a1847","title":"Story Characters","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-238-hand-puppets-finger-puppets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eHand puppets\u003c\/a\u003e and character replicas are great ways to help students connect with stories read in the classroom. Whether they sit and play with their creations while you read, help out by recreating the story as it’s read, or simply take their crafts home, making story characters provides a physical reminder of the story and its lessons. They can also provide opportunities for further creativity if you work together to formulate new stories that center around favorite storybook characters.\n\nFor example, to go along with the book “Frog \u0026amp; Toad Are Friends” by Arnold Lobel, have your students create a toad and \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-8435-plushpups-hand-puppet-frog.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003efrog puppet\u003c\/a\u003e. EnchantedLearning.com and TeacherHelp.org offer templates and instructions on how to create your own puppets out of paper bags, socks, etc. Divide your students into small groups and have each plot out their own Frog and Toad adventure. It may be helpful to discuss each character and the traits that have been observed before beginning this writing exercise. Additionally, you may want to focus your students on a specific concept like “Frog \u0026amp; Toad Learn To Recycle”, “Frog \u0026amp; Toad Meet A New Friend”, or another topic of your choosing. Once their stories have been completed, have your students use the puppets to act them out.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.enchantedlearning.com\/crafts\/puppets\/paperbag\/\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ePaper Bag Puppets Craft - Enchanted Learning Software\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.teacherhelp.org\/puppets.htm\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ePuppets: TeacherHelp.org\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-276-classroom-rugs-classroom-carpets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eEducational classroom carpets\u003c\/a\u003e are versatile and are perfect for circle time.  Browse our selection today!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734074826777,"sku":"A1847","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"inspired-crafts-for-your-space-unit-a1849","title":"Inspired Crafts for Your Space Unit","description":"\u003cp\u003eWhile exploring the wonders of space offers abundant material for fun and learning, sometimes it’s hard to translate these awe-inspiring concepts into inspired crafts. A solar system created from foam balls and metal hangers is classic, but becomes tired and boring when used year after year. Here is a super craft idea that will enhance learning and catch your students’ attention.\n\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlanets In Orbit\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis project, while easy to create, demonstrates a foundational solar system concept. Before beginning the activity collect yellow and \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-7198-tru-ray0174-construction-paper-12-x-18-black.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eblack construction paper\u003c\/a\u003e, copies of planet cutouts, fasteners, and crayons, as well as, a small and large circle for tracing. You can choose to use traceable items from around the classroom or design templates from \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-76-paper-for-crafts-poster-board.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eposter board\u003c\/a\u003e or thick \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-4827-array0174-card-stock-assorted-10-colors-100-sheets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ecard stock\u003c\/a\u003e. To begin, instruct your students to trace and cut a small circle onto their \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-7216-tru-ray0174-construction-paper-12-x-18-yellow.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eyellow construction paper\u003c\/a\u003e and a big circle onto their black construction paper. Provide a fastener to each child demonstrating how to safely punch a hole in the middle of each circle, position the smaller yellow circle on top of the larger black circle, and secure the two together. Next, have your students use crayons and other supplies to decorate the planets. Once the decorated planets have dried and been cut apart, encourage students to first line them up in order, then glue them to the black circle. In the completed craft, the sun stays stationary while the planets orbit around it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNote: While younger children can be encouraged to paste their planets in a line for simplicities sake, older children should be encouraged to research pictures of actual orbits, extending the size of their black circle in order to create a more realistic depiction of the solar system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.busybeekidscrafts.com\/Orbiting-Planets.html\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eOrbiting Planets\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCheck out our shopping site.  You'll find everything from an \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-276-classroom-rugs-classroom-carpets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eeducational area rug\u003c\/a\u003e to arts and crafts!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734074892313,"sku":"A1849","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"learning-about-butterflies-a1850","title":"Learning About Butterflies Craft for Kids","description":"\u003cp\u003eSpring is the time for new life. Flowers and trees begin to bud, baby animals are introduced into the world, and the earth wakes up from its dormant winter slumber. In the spirit of new life, spring beauty, and rejuvenation, Susan Caplan of Suite101 offers a wonderful comprehensive craft on the life cycle of the butterfly that will fit great into your \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-207-life-science.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003e life science lessons\u003c\/a\u003e. \n\nThis four-stage craft offers a fun learning experience as children journey through each phase of a butterfly’s formation. In the first stage, students will discover that butterflies start as eggs. They will be amazed to find out that a female butterfly can lay up to 1,000 eggs at a time and, to protect them from sunlight and predators, chooses to deposit them on the underside of a leaf. In seven to twenty days, the eggs begin to hatch, producing the subject of the next stage: caterpillars. In the second stage, the children will learn that, just like them, caterpillars eat to grow big and strong. They will also find that, unlike them, caterpillars spend most of their time eating and that, as they expand, they shed layers of skin in a process called molting to make way for this expansion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStage three is where children will discover the butterfly chrysalis (also referred to as a pupa). While the science may be too advanced, students will be fascinated to learn that this ‘cocoon’ is made out of the caterpillar’s skin and that it only takes a week to ten days for the short, stubby caterpillar to metamorphose into a beautiful and graceful butterfly. The fourth stage will, of course, focus on the butterfly. Students will learn that it only takes this insect four hours to master flying and also that a butterfly’s life span is very short. Caplan offers a neat and creative learning experience with this craft!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/educational-kids-crafts.suite101.com\/article.cfm\/butterfly-life-cycle-craft\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eButterfly Life Cycle Craft: Classroom, Homeschool and Preschool Lesson on Insect Metamorphosis\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNeed a new \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-276-classroom-rugs-classroom-carpets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ecircle time rug\u003c\/a\u003e?  View our incredible selection over on our shopping site!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734074925081,"sku":"A1850","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"spring-handprint-lamb-variation-a1852","title":"Spring Handprint Lamb Variation","description":"\u003cp\u003eSirena posted this great craft on Artists Helping Children and it inspired a simple variation. Younger children who don’t yet have the dexterity to trace and cut out a tracing of their own hand will love this alternative.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSupplies You’ll Need\n•\t\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-7177-tru-ray0174-construction-paper-9-x-12-dark-green.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eGreen construction paper\u003c\/a\u003e\n•\t\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-8639-artista-ii0174-liquid-tempera-paint-16-oz-white.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eWhite tempura paint\u003c\/a\u003e\n•\t\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-93-kids-paint-brushes.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eKids Paint Paintbrushes\u003c\/a\u003e\n•\tBlack marker\n•\tYour student’s hand\n•\tCotton balls and glue (optional)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBefore beginning this activity, prepare a shallow tub with warm soapy water. Push two or three desks together to create a ‘clean-up station’ supplying water and pre-torn pieces of paper towel (enough for each student to use one to wet and clean, and one to dry). If you’re attempting this craft with younger children, it may be best to have an adult oversee the paint. Otherwise, pour a small amount of paint into a shallow container—one for each student.\n\nHave each student hold their hand, palm up, with fingers spread apart and use their paintbrush to cover the entire surface with a layer of white paint. Keeping their fingers spread, instruct them place their hand down flat onto the piece of green construction paper. Arrange the picture so that their fingers point down with the thumb pointing to the side. Students will be able to see the lamb taking shape—their palm-print being the body, their fingers as legs, and their thumb acting as the lamb’s head.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter they have washed up and the paint has dried, have them use a black marker to create hooves and the lamb’s face. Provide construction paper and other supplies so that the children can design the rest of the scene (i.e. trees, rocks, flowers, a fence, etc.). If you desire, provide cotton balls and glue to make the lamb’s fluffy wool. This is a fun spring or Easter activity to complete with any age and skill level!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.artistshelpingchildren.org\/kidscraftsactivitiesblog\/2010\/02\/make-spring-handprints-lambs-for-easter-or-spring-preschoolers-and-kids-craft\/\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eMake Spring Handprints Lambs for Easter or Spring : Preschoolers and Kids Craft « Animal Crafts Ideas « Kids Crafts \u0026amp; Activities\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAre you in need of new \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-276-classroom-rugs-classroom-carpets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eclassroom rugs\u003c\/a\u003e?  Browse our shopping site to find the rug that will meet your needs.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734074990617,"sku":"A1852","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"cherry-blossom-artwork-a1854","title":"Cherry Blossom Artwork","description":"\u003cp\u003eA great way to combat the winter doldrums is to bring spring into your artwork. Cherry blossoms, with their vibrant flowers, have long been a symbol of the arrival of spring. Kim of Musings from Kim K has documented a beautiful spring cherry blossom craft that, with its simplicity, can be used for children of all ages.\n\nStart by collecting white \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-182-crafting-paper.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ecraft paper\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-8259-crayola0174-washable-paint-16-oz-magenta.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003epink paint\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-93-kids-paint-brushes.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ekids paint brushes\u003c\/a\u003e, glue, and fine white or pink (or \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-6799-glitter-4-oz-red.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ered glitter\u003c\/a\u003e can work too) glitter. Prepare shallow containers of paint for your students mixing equal parts of water and paint (e.g. 1 part water + 1 part paint). If your students are old enough to handle the paint without a mess, this can be a great opportunity to see how well they can follow directions. Also prepare small containers of pure water.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo begin the craft, have your students take a clean paintbrush and “paint” their entire sheet of paper with water. Once completed, instruct them to dip their brush or fingertip into the paint mixture, placing paint dots onto their wet sheet of paper and watching them expand. Once each student has made enough cherry blossoms, have them set aside their paper to dry. When the paint is no longer wet, help them or instruct them how to make the tree branches with a black marker. Provide them with glue and glitter for a bit more decoration. Such a fun and easy craft!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/kenward.blogspot.com\/2009\/01\/blossom-painting-super-easy-craft-for.html\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eBlossom Painting\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLook at our wonderful variety of school furnishings.  If you need a \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-276-classroom-rugs-classroom-carpets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eclassroom rug\u003c\/a\u003e or maybe some new tables we have you covered!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734075056153,"sku":"A1854","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"teaching-our-history-a1855","title":"Teaching Our History","description":"\u003cp\u003eIt often amazes children when they learn that the United States wasn’t always a country and that the state they live in didn’t always have roads, buildings, or the other amenities they enjoy now. History units on the founding of our country and the exploration of the west always offer great opportunities to mix fun with learning.\n\nIt may take a little coordination, but work with the teachers on your floor to bring history characters to life. Create inexpensive character-specific costumes, develop short informative monologues, and take turns performing these for your students. Not only will they enjoy seeing you dressed up, the wonderful human ‘visual aids’ will help them to engage and remember the information. Some fun characters include George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Thomas Edison, Sacagawea, Lewis and Clark, and many more!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMix history with art. Just like reading, math, and science, children learn appreciation for history at a young age. Encourage this awareness by relating the subject to activities and hobbies they do enjoy. Art is a fun way to do this. Busy Bee Kids Crafts offers a wide variety of projects to be completed during your unit on western expansion including homemade mustaches, horses made from footprints, cowboy puppets, and many more!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou can find a variety of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-432-dramatic-play.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003edramatic play products\u003c\/a\u003e including costumes and \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-238-hand-puppets-finger-puppets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ehand puppets\u003c\/a\u003e on our shopping site!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.busybeekidscrafts.com\/Cowboy-Western-Crafts.html\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eCowboy-Western Crafts\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhether you need new classroom tables or a new \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-276-classroom-rugs-classroom-carpets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eclassroom carpet\u003c\/a\u003e you'll find what you need on our shopping site!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734075088921,"sku":"A1855","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"decorating-your-classroom-for-st-patrick-s-day-a1856","title":"Decorating Your Classroom For St. Patrick’s Day","description":"\u003cp\u003eWhile you may desire to go to all the trouble of designing and creating your own \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-54-classroom-decorations.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eclassroom decorations\u003c\/a\u003e for the holidays, seasoned educators will remind you that you have the best creative resource right under your nose—your students! Not only will you have successfully adorned your classroom with colorful holiday décor, you won’t have to find a place to store it after the holiday has passed and your students will have blast with its creation!\n\nAllison McDonald from FamilyEducation has designed a wonderful St. Patrick’s Day craft for classrooms that have abundant windows. Simply by using a white crayon to draw shamrocks onto \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-7191-tru-ray0174-construction-paper-9-x-12-white.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ewhite construction paper\u003c\/a\u003e and painting over the entire surface with a thin layer of green paint, you have a spectacular sun catcher that will splash bits of color into your classroom.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo spice up a seasonal bulletin board, create a leprechaun template with thick \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-4827-array0174-card-stock-assorted-10-colors-100-sheets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ecard stock\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-76-paper-for-crafts-poster-board.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eposter board\u003c\/a\u003e and with green, yellow, tan, and \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-7174-tru-ray0174-construction-paper-9-x-12-black.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eblack construction paper\u003c\/a\u003e, encourage your students to make their own leprechaun holding a pot of gold. Provide card stock for children to copy a favorite St. Patrick’s Day song or poem. Prepare the bulletin board with a rainbow and shamrock border, add a title such as “Our Preschoolers are Over the Rainbow for St. Patrick’s Day”, and decorate with your student’s creations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/blogs.familyeducation.com\/parenting\/moms\/allison-mcdonald\/shamrock-sun-catcher\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eShamrock Sun Catcher Mom's Parenting Blog by Allison McDonald - FamilyEducation\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-276-classroom-rugs-classroom-carpets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eeducational rug\u003c\/a\u003e can make any classroom feel more cozy and it can even enhance learning!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734075121689,"sku":"A1856","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"recycled-art-a1861","title":"Recycled Art","description":"\u003cp\u003eDid you know that, on average, each person produces solid waste weighing nearly 4.4 pounds every day? If you do the math, annually, this adds up to almost a ton of trash created per person. In response, many schools have begun recycling awareness programs in their district with the goal of teaching children the importance of reducing and reusing waste. Your classroom may employ the use of a blue bin to participate in school-wide recycling of paper, plastic bottles, etc., but Tammy Andrew, a Suite101 contributor, has created a new way of salvaging these materials.\n\nCollage art has been advocated as a wonderful exercise through which children think about concepts in new and different ways. It has also been heralded as a great outlet for creativity. Andrew has combined this popular art form with recycling concepts to create an inspired Earth Day collage activity. Integrating natural elements along with recycled trash, Andrew suggests providing your students with a common theme for their art such as “Nature v. Trash” or “How are we harming the earth?” Take your students on a field trip to the school yard encouraging each child to collect natural materials such as leaves, acorns, pine cones, etc. that they can incorporate into their collage. Discover materials to use in the recycle bin in your classroom and invite your students to collect the rest of their materials as homework. You’ll be amazed at the enthusiasm and creativity this activity invokes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTake a look at our great selection of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-276-classroom-rugs-classroom-carpets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eeducational classroom carpets\u003c\/a\u003e!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/classroom-activities.suite101.com\/article.cfm\/how-to-make-an-earth-day-collage\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eHow to Make an Earth Day Collage: Create Nature and Recycling Inspired Artwork in Class\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-276-classroom-rugs-classroom-carpets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eEducation rugs\u003c\/a\u003e are great for the classroom.  They promote learning and they also work well for circle time.  Browse our selection today!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734075285529,"sku":"A1861","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"spirit-filled-st-patrick-s-day-a1863","title":"Spirit-Filled St. Patrick’s Day","description":"\u003cp\u003eIf you’re looking for new ways to celebrate this whimsical holiday, Activity Village offers a superb resource for crafts, printable activities, coloring pages, puzzles, and so much more! While including the traditional leprechaun and pot of gold art projects, there are many original craft ideas that will breathe life into any lesson plan.  If you are in need of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-46-arts-crafts-supplies.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ecraft supplies\u003c\/a\u003e check out the great selection over at our online store!\n\nRainbow shakers are one such craft. Not only are they colorful and fun to make, they’re use isn’t restricted to St. Patrick’s Day. Your students will enjoy playing with these delightful \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-215-instruments.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eclassroom instruments\u003c\/a\u003e throughout the year. In preparation for this project, have your students bring in a small plastic drink bottle. Instruct them to use a bathroom faucet and a little bit of hand soap if their bottles haven’t properly been washed out. Once clean and any bottle label has been torn off, you’re all set to begin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProvide students with a handful of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-70-beading-supplies.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ebrightly colored beads\u003c\/a\u003e. The beads should be placed into the bottle and the lid fastened tightly. If you wish to be certain that the bottle is tightly sealed, place a bit of glue onto the grooves inside the cap before screwing it on. Next, supplying your students with multi-colored \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-63-construction-paper-art-tissue-paper.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eart tissue paper\u003c\/a\u003e and colorful \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-42-teacher-stickers.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eteacher stickers\u003c\/a\u003e, have them decorate their instrument. Students will enjoy using these sensational projects in circle time or in free play!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBe sure to check out the rest of Activity Village’s St. Patrick’s Day resources!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.activityvillage.co.uk\/rainbow_shakers.htm\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eRainbow Shakers\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEducational carpets and \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-276-classroom-rugs-classroom-carpets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003elearning rugs\u003c\/a\u003e are great for any classroom!  They promote learning and they also provide a comfortable place for circle time!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734075351065,"sku":"A1863","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"weaving-with-recycled-material-a1865","title":"Weaving With Recycled Material","description":"\u003cp\u003eEliminating school waste can be a tedious, time-consuming job. While you can create guidelines and charge teachers, students, and administrators alike to be conscious of their own waste, you can’t be responsible for others’ actions. Because a personal responsibility for the environment is learned at a young age, educational programs, workshops, and lessons are critical in reaching out to students and impressing upon them the importance of reducing waste, while reusing and recycling what is salvageable.\n\nMs. Ale, creator of Art Lessons For Kids, has shared a wonderful example of how to create beautiful art while teaching children about eliminating school waste and recycling. As with most offices, the copier can become a source of unneeded waste. As a classroom, volunteer to be the recycler of extra copies, those that have been printed with errors, etc. Many treasures can be created from these sheets of paper that were thought to be unusable!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe project is labeled for use with second graders, but with a little imagination, it can be transformed into a project for all age groups. Simply use an average second grader as your skill base and adjust from there! Younger children may benefit from fewer strings to weave. Older children, on the other hand, may find it more challenging to twist their paper into smaller strings and weave more. However you decide, don’t forget to remind your students of areas where they can reduce and recycle in their daily lives!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/artlessonsforkids.wordpress.com\/2010\/03\/02\/recycled-paper-weaving-in-grade-two\/\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eRecycled Paper Weaving in Grade Two « Art Lessons For Kids\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTake a look at our great selection of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-46-arts-crafts-supplies.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003earts and crafts supplies\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-276-classroom-rugs-classroom-carpets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eeducational classroom carpets\u003c\/a\u003e!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734075416601,"sku":"A1865","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"pre-spring-break-party-a1866","title":"‘Pre-Spring Break’ Party","description":"\u003cp\u003eEaster comes at a unique time of year. Not only does it herald in the spring, most schools are gearing up for a week off school with their family and friends. Since your students’ will most likely be occupied with thoughts of the coming vacation, plan a fun ‘pre-spring break’ party for your classroom. Simple \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-54-classroom-decorations.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eclassroom decoration\u003c\/a\u003es can be made during class craft times or created during your free periods. Provide each of your students with a \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-8591-array0174-card-stock-white-100-sheets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ecard stock\u003c\/a\u003e place mat that they can decorate and laminate for the special day. Treats are always fun for classroom parties. Make a list of the things you’ll expect to use (i.e. paper products, punch, cookies, etc.), then coordinate with room mothers or send a sign-up sheet around the classroom to make sure everything is accounted for. Provide removable tabs that students can take home to their parents. Also, if sending around a sheet for students, it may be prudent to personally or have an assistant make ‘reminder calls’ to parents a few days before the event.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs the teacher, it’s nice to do something special for your students to let them know that you appreciate them too. Activity Village provides some great Easter templates that will be a hit with the kids and spice up the \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-120-bulletin-board-sets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eclassroom decoration\u003c\/a\u003e. While they have originally been designed to hold and display decorated Easter eggs, they can also be used for Easter candy especially Cadbury eggs!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.activityvillage.co.uk\/foam_egg_cups.htm\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eFoam Egg Cups - Kids Easter Craft\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734075449369,"sku":"A1866","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"inches-of-fun-a1868","title":"Inches Of Fun","description":"\u003cp\u003eJacqueline, Kids Artists blogger, has provided a creative art lesson that is fun, as well as, educational. This project, called an inchie, is best accomplished with a theme in mind. Using a specific color scheme, decorating squares with items having a similar purpose or shape, and creating each square to illustrate a different part of a concept being learned are all great themes to use.\n\nFor younger children who may not be able to participate in making their own, these inchies can provide wonderful educational tools. By decorating with squares of carpet, faux fur, bubble wrap, woven fabric, etc. your students can explore different textures. Incorporating working buttons, zippers, snaps, clasps, etc. into the artwork, your students can strengthen their fine motor skills as they experiment opening and closing these fasteners.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor older students, as mentioned, inchies are a wonderful way of depicting concepts being studied. For example, when learning about life cycles, design a project around butterflies. Invite your students to use an assortment of materials including \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-726-brilliant-beads.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ebeads\u003c\/a\u003e, pipe cleaners (\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-2575-chenille-stems-assorted-12-stems.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003echenille stems\u003c\/a\u003e), foam cutouts, etc. to decorate individual squares that show butterfly eggs, caterpillars, what caterpillars eat, a butterfly cocoon, etc. These educational works of art can be used to supplement learned concepts while also brightening up the classroom.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/kidsartists.blogspot.com\/2010\/03\/inchies.html\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eKids Artists: Inchies\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur shopping site offers all kinds of classroom furnishings including \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-276-classroom-rugs-classroom-carpets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ediscount classroom carpets\u003c\/a\u003e!  Shop today and save.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734075514905,"sku":"A1868","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"leprechaun-light-bulb-a1869","title":"Leprechaun Light Bulb","description":"\u003cp\u003eCompleting the same craft year after year can get boring and tired. The same is true for every holiday. To breathe life into your St. Patrick’s Day craft plans while still embodying the spirit of the celebration, here is a twist on the traditional leprechaun craft!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA quick note, because light bulbs can be dangerous if dropped and shattered, make sure your students are old enough to realize the significance of handling their craft materials with care. If you’re confident that your students will be able to complete this project without incident, Sherri Osborn has put together a list of the \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-56-craft-supplies.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ecraft supplies\u003c\/a\u003e you’ll need which include:\n\n•\tLight bulb (one per child)\n•\tToilet paper roll (one for every pair of children)\n•\t\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-94-tape-tape-dispensers.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eMasking tape\u003c\/a\u003e\n•\tNewspaper\n•\tPaper Mache paste\n•\tPen\n•\tCraft foam or \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-625-felt-sheets-9-x-12.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003efelt sheets\u003c\/a\u003e\n•\tPaint (green, orange, pink\/tan, black)\n•\t\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-93-kids-paint-brushes.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eKids paint brushes\u003c\/a\u003e\n•\t\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-248-glue-adhesives.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eCraft glue\u003c\/a\u003e\n•\t\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-166-kids-scissors.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eKids scissors\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOsborn suggests setting aside an hour for this craft. It is important to remember that this time frame does not include the time needed for the Paper Mache to dry. Because of this, the project will most likely need to be completed in two days. Also, if you wish to skip the mess and hassle, craft supply manufacturers offer pre-made Paper Mache paste. On the other hand, the paste can be made rather easily and inexpensively with one part water and two parts flour. Either way, your students will enjoy getting their hands dirty and your classroom will have adorable decorations for the holiday!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/familycrafts.about.com\/od\/leprechauns\/ss\/LightBulbLeprechaunCraft.htm\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eLight Bulb Leprechaun Craft - How to Make a Leprechaun Out of a Light Bulb\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you need new \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-276-classroom-rugs-classroom-carpets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eeducational classroom rugs\u003c\/a\u003e you should take a look at our shopping site today!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734075547673,"sku":"A1869","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"march-comes-in-like-a-lion-a1872","title":"“March comes in like a lion…”","description":"\u003cp\u003eWith the popular saying, “March comes in like a lion and out like a lamb”, the first month of spring wouldn’t be complete without a lesson on \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-331-weather.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eweather\u003c\/a\u003e. Explaining to your students that this saying illustrates the weather transition from winter to spring, invite them to brainstorm what characteristics make weather ‘ferocious’ and those that are deemed ‘calm’. Topics to discuss may include temperature, wind speed, type of precipitation, etc.\n\nHave each student predict if the weather conditions will keep with the saying this year or if they will stray setting aside a small space on the front \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-224-chalkboards-map-rails.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003echalkboard\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-442-dry-erase-boards-marker-boards.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003edry erase board\u003c\/a\u003e to record a tally of votes. Provide each student with a blank calendar template and invite them to use a planner or other \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-284-classroom-calendars.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eclassroom calendar\u003c\/a\u003e to fill in the correct dates and labels. Students should keep this printout in their science folder so that they can access it every day to record weather conditions. Have students decide after completing observations each day whether it was a ‘lion’ or ‘lamb’ day.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSupplement this lesson with fun crafts. Just For Fun blog creator, Sandy, has provided instructions and pictures on how to create your own lion from construction paper handprints and, to illustrate the rest of the saying, blogger Michaele Sommerville has created a fun lamb craft for all ages. Use these simple lesson and craft ideas to learn about weather and test the infamous March saying!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/just4funwithsandy.blogspot.com\/2009\/03\/in-like-lion.html\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eJust For Fun: In Like a Lion...\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/kidney-garden.blogspot.com\/2010\/03\/in-like-lambs.html\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eKindergarten's 3 R's: Respect, Resources and Rants: In Like Lambs...\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHaving the right \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-276-classroom-rugs-classroom-carpets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eclassroom carpets\u003c\/a\u003e can make any classroom feel more comfortable.  Browse our collection of rugs today!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734075678745,"sku":"A1872","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"birds-in-springtime-a1873","title":"Birds In Springtime","description":"\u003cp\u003eGail Bartel, of That Artist Woman blog, has shared a wonderful spring project for ages seven and up. If you’re an art teacher who has been attempting to find a way to bridge the gap between class lessons and other subjects, or a primary teacher who likes the diversion from simple crafts, this is a great lesson to check out!\n\nChildren are very observant. In many cases they can see things that adults miss. As spring approaches, ask your students to journal each week about the physical signs they have observed that show spring is on its way. You can choose to focus on any of these spring indicators, but Bartel suggests using the return of migratory birds to your area for a dynamic unit of study.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDiscuss as a class why birds migrate. Include topics such as food security, lack of shelter, and temperature. Use this \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-78-science.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003escience lesson\u003c\/a\u003e as a transition to geology and using maps. Take a trip to the computer lab, inviting students to research the migration patterns of birds in your area. You may need a librarian to help point your students to relevant resources. Back in the classroom, provide students with maps, encouraging them to plot and measure the migration course of the bird they’ve researched. Using these activities in addition to those suggested by Bartel and you will have a comprehensive unit that bridges the gap between many different subjects!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/thatartistwoman.blogspot.com\/2010\/03\/spring-weaving-project.html\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ethat artist woman: Spring Weaving Project\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCheck out our shopping website where we offer \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-276-classroom-rugs-classroom-carpets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ecarpets for classrooms\u003c\/a\u003e and other classroom furnishings!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734075711513,"sku":"A1873","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"colorful-spring-wreath-a1874","title":"Colorful Spring Wreath","description":"\u003cp\u003eDecorating with butterfly crafts is a fun and colorful way of welcoming spring into the classroom. Craft Bits, a free craft resource for educators and parents, has developed this awesome butterfly wreath that takes little planning, but offers vibrant results!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn preparation for this craft, design four different butterfly templates, varied in size and shape. Because they will see a lot of wear and tear, make sure you create these out of sturdy material. \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-4827-array0174-card-stock-assorted-10-colors-100-sheets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eCard stock\u003c\/a\u003e or cardboard from recycled cereal boxes make inexpensive alternatives. So that time isn’t wasted, make a set of butterfly templates for each group of four students.\n\nCollect a variety of brightly colored \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-63-construction-paper-art-tissue-paper.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003econstruction paper\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-8590-array0174-card-stock-vibrant-assortment-5-colors-100-sheets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ecard stock\u003c\/a\u003e. You can also find beautifully patterned scrapbook paper at your local craft store, ask for old wallpaper books from home improvement stores, or even search out fun gift wrap at discount stores. Invite children to use a variety of complimentary patterns and designs when planning and tracing butterflies for their wreath. For a more realistic rendition of the project, have your students trace the butterfly patterns onto plain card stock, provide them with nature magazines or other resource books, and encourage them to copy the designs of real butterflies with markers or paint.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA simple wreath ring can be cut from a paper plate. You can do this ahead of time or have your students create their own during class. Once they’ve completed these preliminary tasks, provide your students with \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-248-glue-adhesives.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ecraft glue\u003c\/a\u003e and watch the creativity flow! Each wreath will be unique and will provide a splash of color for beautiful springtime \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-54-classroom-decorations.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eclassroom décor\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.craftbits.com\/project\/wreath-butterflies#comment_33479\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eWreath - Butterflies - DIY Craft Project Instructions\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHaving the right \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-276-classroom-rugs-classroom-carpets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eclassroom area rug\u003c\/a\u003e is very important.  It can promote learning and make your students feel more comfortable during circle time.  Check out the wonderful variety of rugs we offer!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734075744281,"sku":"A1874","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"origami-in-the-classroom-a1876","title":"Origami In The Classroom","description":"\u003cp\u003eOrigami has long been used in the classroom, not only for its beauty and versatility, but for the educational and developmental benefits derived from it. As this art requires the use of both hands, participants stimulate the brain bi-manually, as well as, engage both left and right hemispheres. The physical craft of folding paper strengthens fine motor skills and develops muscle coordination, while improving the ability to follow directions and teaching the brain to sequence. Spatial reasoning is reinforced as students take a one-dimensional piece of paper and turn it into a three-dimensional object. Lastly, origami trains the brain to focus, teaches multi-cultural awareness, and imposes a sense of calm and relaxation on participants.\n\nThere are many resources, in print and online, that provide directions on how to make just about anything with a piece of paper, embellishments if desired, and some patience! When choosing a project, be sure to keep in mind the attention span and skill level of your students. Additionally, keep in mind that thicker paper is often more challenging to fold and may not be a good idea for small hands. Here is a great pack of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-7150-origami-paper-55-assorted-sheets-9-34-x-9-34.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eorigami paper\u003c\/a\u003e in bright colors!  While written directions and a physical sample of the completed project are important, it can also be effective to provide a supplemental instructional video. Many can be found on YouTube or kids craft sites online.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.simplekidscrafts.com\/?z=origami-craftgami-dog\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eCrafts for kids on video Craftgami: Cute Origami Dog\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSave money on \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-276-classroom-rugs-classroom-carpets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eclassroom carpet squares\u003c\/a\u003e!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734075809817,"sku":"A1876","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"one-of-a-kind-flowers-a1881","title":"One of A Kind Flowers","description":"\u003cp\u003eParents enjoy when their children bring home crafts they’ve been working on in class, especially when these projects include elements that are special or unique to their child, like a hand-, foot-, or fingerprint. While gaining priority placement on the refrigerator or family message board, these masterpieces can also become instant keepsakes. Allison McDonald, Family Education blog contributor, has posted a simple spring craft that will add a splash of color to your classroom, while also being a big hit with parents!\n\nSupplies You’ll Need\n•\t\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-63-construction-paper-art-tissue-paper.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eConstruction paper\u003c\/a\u003e in assorted colors\n•\t\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-125-stamp-pads.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eWashable stamp pads\u003c\/a\u003e in assorted colors\n•\t\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-102-markers.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eCrayola markers\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBecause the ink can get kind-of messy, create a ‘clean-up station’ before beginning this activity by pushing two or three desks together. Prepare a shallow tub with warm soapy water and supply pre-torn pieces of paper towel (enough for each student to use one to wet and clean, and one to dry). Provide each student with a piece of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-2128-sunworks0174-construction-paper-smart-stack0153-9x-12-300-sheets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003econstruction paper\u003c\/a\u003e, instruct them to press their finger onto the ink pad, then press their finger onto the paper to create a fingerprint. Encourage them to experiment with different colors (perhaps mixing colors with one fingerprint on top of the other) and different shapes. Show them how different pressures and movements will accomplish shape variations. Once these prints have dried, use markers to draw flower petals and stems for a simple, yet colorful, keepsake!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/blogs.familyeducation.com\/parenting\/moms\/allison-mcdonald\/finger-print-flowers\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eFinger Print Flowers Mom's Parenting Blog by Allison McDonald - FamilyEducation\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBig time savings on \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-276-classroom-rugs-classroom-carpets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eeducational area rugs\u003c\/a\u003e! Shop today.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734076006425,"sku":"A1881","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"fun-with-watercolors-a1886","title":"Fun With Watercolors","description":"\u003cp\u003eKids Artists creator, Jacquelein, has shared a wonderful project that allows children to learn about \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-232-watercolor-paint.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ewatercolor paint\u003c\/a\u003e, as well as, the ocean. Be sure to check out her post for a picture of the finished product and artwork directions. She suggests having your students write their own poetry, but if you need a quick, fun project, here are some great poems your students can use!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAt the Sea-Side\u003c\/strong\u003e\nBy Robert Louis Stevenson\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen I was down beside the sea\nA wooden spade they gave to me\nTo dig the sandy shore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMy holes were empty like a cup.\nIn every hole the sea came up,\nTill I could come no more.\n\n\u003cstrong\u003eA Wave\u003c\/strong\u003e\nBy Gussie Osborne\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI sat on the beach and a beautiful wave\nCame tumbling right up to me.\nIt threw some pink shells on the sand at my feet,\nThen hurried straight back out to sea.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt ran away swiftly and leaped up in foam;\nIt bumped other waves in its glee.\nI think it was hurrying to gather more shells,\nTo bring as a present for me.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCome to the Beach\u003c\/strong\u003e\nBy Unknown Author\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCome to the beach.\nCome to play in the sun.\nCome to splash in the water.\nCome to have fun!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/kidsartists.blogspot.com\/2010\/03\/poem-about-sea.html\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eKids Artists: Poem about the sea\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGet great deals on a \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-276-classroom-rugs-classroom-carpets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ecircle time rug\u003c\/a\u003e!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734076104729,"sku":"A1886","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"paper-towel-masterpieces-a1887","title":"Paper Towel Masterpieces","description":"\u003cp\u003eA lot of teachers think that craft time has to involve actual \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-46-arts-crafts-supplies.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eart supplies\u003c\/a\u003e, and because most are mandated to save or use supplies sparingly, craft time in the classroom becomes a luxury for holidays or special occasions. The awesome truth is there are a profusion of projects that make use of inexpensive items from around the house to create fun, colorful crafts your students will love. Deborah, creator of the blog Excellence In Early Childhood Education, offers one such craft using \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-102-markers.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ewashable markers\u003c\/a\u003e and sheets of paper towel.\n\nTo begin, cover student workstations with newspaper or old sheets and provide each child with a paper plate for drying. While they will certainly have time to complete more, have your students begin with a single sheet of paper towel. Inform them that if they wish to keep the integrity of a certain design, object, or word (i.e. their name), you’ll set out a few permanent markers to use, otherwise, have them get to work designing colorful ‘designer towels’ with \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-110-crayola-washable-fine-line-classpack-10-assorted-colors.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ewashable markers\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen your students have had their fill creating their masterpieces, make your way around with a spray bottle filled with water. As a reminder, not much water is needed for the designs to bleed and it takes a little bit for the water to soak into the towel. Have students put their damp designs on their paper plates and set aside on the windowsill or shelf to dry. Bring these out another day for more creativity and fun! Be sure to read Deborah’s entire post for some great ideas!\n\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/preschoolprofessional.blogspot.com\/2010\/03\/rainbows-and-other-colorful-ideas-from.html\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003e\nExcellence in Early Childhood Education: Rainbows and other colorful ideas from designer paper towels\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGet low prices on all \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-276-classroom-rugs-classroom-carpets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ecircle time rugs\u003c\/a\u003e!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734076137497,"sku":"A1887","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"the-red-white-and-blue-a1888","title":"The Red, White, and Blue","description":"\u003cp\u003eKathy Barbro, art teacher and blogger, has shared a wonderful project that encourages a closer look at what makes this country great—life and liberty. Coupled with a lesson on the Declaration of Independence, the Civil War, and the heroes that stood up for us then and continue to give their lives for us now, this dynamic project can leave a lasting impression on your students.\n\nInspired by the work of Faith Ringgold, specifically her work entitled “Flag Quilt Story”, Barbro has sought to emulate Ringgold’s craft using simple cardstock and magazine cutouts. To begin, provide each student with a flag template printed on an 8.5” x 11” piece of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-8591-array0174-card-stock-white-100-sheets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ewhite card stock\u003c\/a\u003e. You may choose to draw one of your own or simply print out the template provided on Barbro’s blog Art Projects For Kids. Supplying students with a pre-made template ensures that they will be able to start searching through magazines and cutting appropriate scrap pieces right away, saving time, while also creating a more uniform look among projects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInstruct your students to find blue and red swatches of color, as well as, pieces of magazine type. Encourage them to cut as many as they find. Extras scraps can be collected for a future project or given to other students who were unable to find enough pieces. Have your students paste overlapping scraps to the template to create their own flag quilt story.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.artprojectsforkids.org\/2010\/01\/faith-ringgold-flag-story-quilt.html\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eART PROJECTS FOR KIDS: Faith Ringgold Flag Story Quilt\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eView our great selection of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-276-classroom-rugs-classroom-carpets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eclassroom carpet squares\u003c\/a\u003e!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734076170265,"sku":"A1888","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"fun-with-buttons-a1890","title":"Fun With Buttons","description":"\u003cp\u003eNatalie, mother and creator of Tired, Need Sleep, has designed a wonderful learning tool for young children. Buttoning, next to tying shoes, is one of the hardest skills to master. It takes quite a bit of coordination and dexterity to fit these small objects into their proper place. A great way to strengthen this skill is to make a button board where children can practice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSupplies You’ll Need\u003c\/strong\u003e\n•\tLarge piece of corrugated cardboard\n•\tFabric\n•\t\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-651-bright-buttons0153-1-lb.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eBright Buttons\u003c\/a\u003e\n•\t\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-625-felt-sheets-9-x-12.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eFelt sheets\u003c\/a\u003e in assorted colors\n•\t\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-166-kids-scissors.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eKids scissors\u003c\/a\u003e\n•\t\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-248-glue-adhesives.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eCraft glue\u003c\/a\u003e\n•\tNeedle and thread\n\nBegin with a scrap piece of fabric that covers the entire surface of the cardboard piece you’ve selected. Within the limit of the cardboard, plan and place small dots onto the fabric where you would like to place buttons. The number and spacing isn’t important unless you plan to make it a matching activity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse a needle and thread to sew buttons to the fabric and then paste the piece of fabric to the corrugated cardboard. Fold any excess fabric around the edges of the board and tack in place with glue. Cut shapes from the felt, adding a slit big enough to fit a button in the center of each. With the finished product, students will develop fine motor skills, practice color and shape recognition, and reinforce other concepts like sorting and matching.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/tiredneedsleep.blogspot.com\/2009\/10\/button-board.html\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eTired, Need Sleep.: Button Board\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFind great deals on \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-276-classroom-rugs-classroom-carpets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eeducational carpets\u003c\/a\u003e!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734076334105,"sku":"A1890","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"glue-for-toddlers-a1891","title":"Glue For Toddlers","description":"\u003cp\u003eOne of the ways toddlers explore their surroundings and further their own cognitive and physical development is through hand-to-mouth interaction. This is great when teaching children how to feed themselves, but can be detrimental when attempting to play games or do art projects in class. \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-165-crayons.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eCrayons\u003c\/a\u003e, play-doh, and \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-248-glue-adhesives.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ecraft glue\u003c\/a\u003e, the cornerstones of art exploration, are all big temptations for a two year old. Deborah, creator of Excellence in Early Childhood Education, has developed a wonderful alternative to using craft glue—corn syrup and food coloring!\n\nThis colorful mixture is safe for curious students who tend to put things in their mouths and does the job of normal glue. While it takes a bit longer for the corn syrup to dry, the fact that it holds its color afterward provides some unique crafting opportunities. On her blog, Deborah shows how blue corn syrup glue can be used to create a fun fish bowl craft.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStarting with a card stock cutout of a fish bowl, instruct your students to use a paintbrush to spread blue paste across the surface. Provide your students with two fish shapes and some assorted beans. Encourage your children to sprinkle the beans at the bottom of the fish bowl to make gravel and place the fish in their new home. While these dry, you can gather together as a class and vote on what to name the class ‘fish’. Create character traits for these classroom additions and ask your students to imagine a tale about what they’ll like to do in their new home.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/preschoolprofessional.blogspot.com\/2010\/03\/add-some-food-coloring-to-corn-syrup.html\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eExcellence in Early Childhood Education: Sweet glue for preschoolers\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGet an incredible deal on your next \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-276-classroom-rugs-classroom-carpets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eeducational carpet\u003c\/a\u003e for your classroom!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734076366873,"sku":"A1891","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"another-flag-creation-a1893","title":"Another Flag Creation","description":"\u003cp\u003eWhile many adults get caught up in work or home life and have a tendency to forget, teachers have a unique opportunity to remind students of the greatness of our country and the work of our founding fathers. Janet, a volunteer art teacher in San Diego, offers a way to bring the symbol of our nation to life with this awesome flag mural.\n\nIt may take a bit of prep time, but is well worth it. To begin, connect thirty-two 8.5” x 11” sheets of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-182-crafting-paper.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ecraft paper\u003c\/a\u003e to make a mural that is eight sheets across and four sheets high. The total dimensions should equal 68” x 44”. Draw a pencil version of the United States flag. This can be as detailed as you want. For older students, it would be more challenging if you created a flag that wasn’t stagnant. One with loose folds as it hangs from a flagpole or a depiction of it rippling in the wind are great options in this case.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter you’ve created the base, assign a specific piece to each student. Provide them with several art mediums including colored pencils, markers, paint, pastels, etc. and allow them to choose how to complete their part of the picture. When taped back together you’ll have a one-of-a-kind piece to hang in the hallway or on the wall of your classroom!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca target=\"blank\" href=\"http:\/\/artprojectsforkids.org\/kids-flag-art-from-san-diego\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eART PROJECTS FOR KIDS: Kid’s Flag Art from San Diego\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNeed new \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-276-classroom-rugs-classroom-carpets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003erugs for classroom\u003c\/a\u003e circle time?  Take a look at our great selection today!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734076432409,"sku":"A1893","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"crafts-for-march-weather-fun-a1904","title":"Crafts For March Weather Fun","description":"\u003cp\u003eAs March brings the transition from winter to spring, there are many meteorological phenomena that provide opportunities for discussion including rain, cloud formation, wind, and many more. Colorful pinwheels make a great craft for students learning about  wind and its causes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSupplies You'll Need\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n1 toothpick\u003cbr\u003e\n1 skewer stick\u003cbr\u003e\n2 pieces of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-2725-origami-paper-40-sheets-9-x-9.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eorigami paper\u003c\/a\u003e (or wrapping paper squares in different colors)\u003cbr\u003e\n1 \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-2768-rubber-bands-assorted-sizes.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003erubber band\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-166-kids-scissors.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eKids scissors\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nGlue\u003cbr\u003e\n\nTo begin, invite your students to glue their pieces of paper together, keeping the color or design on the outside. Additionally, encourage them to line up the edges of the paper carefully. Next, fold the square diagonally, marking the paper with a crease (it will look like a triangle). Open the paper and complete the same procedure on the opposite diagonal. After creasing the paper, open it up and lay the marked square flat.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse scissors to cut two-thirds of the way to the center of the marked lines. Be careful not to cut too close to the center. Place a dab of glue all around the center of the paper and fold, without creasing, alternating  corners to the center of the pinwheel. Attach the toothpick and skewer ends together using the rubber band. The toothpick should be at the top, perpendicular to the skewer. Add two separator beads, push the toothpick through the center of the pinwheel from the back, and glue another bead at the end of the toothpick. Your students will have lots of fun with this craft outdoors!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.simplekidscrafts.com\/?z=how-to-make-a-two-toned-patriotic-pinwheel\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eCrafts for kids on video Recycled Kids Crafts: Make a pinwheel\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734076629017,"sku":"A1904","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"craft-stick-horses-a1903","title":"Clothespin Horse Craft for Kids","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg title=\"Clothespin Horse Craft\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Clothes-pin-horse.jpg\" alt=\"Clothespin Horse\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA great way to keep students engrossed in the lesson is to provide challenging, hands-on crafts that allow them to participate and connect with the concepts. Kathy Barbro, a California art teacher and Art Projects For Kids blogger, provides a wonderful resource for art and regular teachers alike!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFollowing a literary lesson on \"Misty of Chincoteague\" or \"King of the Wind\", both authored by Marguerite Henry, a \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-78-science.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003escience lesson\u003c\/a\u003e on the majesty of nature, or rounding out a physics unit by linking horsepower and energy, crafting this horse made from \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-338-mini-spring-clothespins-natural.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eclothespins\u003c\/a\u003e will challenge your students' dexterity and provide a fun link to the material. It literally takes three items: jumbo craft sticks cut into various lengths, two \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-337-large-spring-clothespins-natural-2-34.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eclothespins\u003c\/a\u003e, and \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-248-glue-adhesives.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ecraft glue\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis craft may have to be completed in stages in order to let the glue dry properly, but once its finished, provide your students with \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-3171-sargent-art0174-primary-acrylic-paints.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eacrylic paint\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-102-markers.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003emarkers\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-625-felt-sheets-9-x-12.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003efelt pieces\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-1194-wiggle-eyes-500-asst.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003egoogly eyes\u003c\/a\u003e, etc. so that they can decorate their creations. For a challenge, see who can design a horse that looks closest to the ones you've been studying. Barbro provides a simple way to keep your students engaged in the lesson, while making valuable connections.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca target=\"blank\" href=\"http:\/\/artprojectsforkids.org\/clothespin-horse\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eART PROJECTS FOR KIDS: Clothespin Horse\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734076661785,"sku":"A1903","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Clothes-pin-horse.jpg?v=1522781529"},{"product_id":"flowers-galore-a1906","title":"Flowers Galore!","description":"\u003cp\u003eSpring is in the air and what better way to celebrate it's return that with fun flower crafts! Here are some great ideas for your elementary classrooms!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eToilet Paper Roll Flowers\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAllie, No Time For Flash Cards creator, uses recycled toilet paper rolls to create spring flowers. Rolls are cut half or in thirds, fringed, and then fanned out to create fun flower petals ready to decorate! A little glue and a sturdy piece of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-63-construction-paper-art-tissue-paper.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003econstruction paper\u003c\/a\u003e and your classroom will have oodles of colorful decoration!\u003cbr\u003e\n\n\u003cstrong\u003eMore Toilet Paper Roll Flowers\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrace Dioguardo of Parents.com uses toilet paper rolls to make free-standing flower crafts. The tube is fringed at both edges to create petals measuring two inches and fanned out. Skewer sticks painted green, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-818-sunworks0174-construction-paper-9-x-12-dark-green.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003egreen construction paper\u003c\/a\u003e, and an eight inch square of wadded up \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-6603-art-tissue-quires-dark-pink.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003etissue paper\u003c\/a\u003e are used as stems, leaves, and the center of the flower, respectively. Student creations can be placed in colorful vases around the classroom or 'wrapped' and sent home as a surprise for mom.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOatmeal Container Flowers\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eValerie, mother of two and creator of Frugal Family Fun Blog, used the same pattern as Grace Dioguardo, but on a grander scale! Using oatmeal containers instead of toilet paper rolls, Valerie created giant sunflowers. A great way to add dimension and variety to your classroom decor! And of course, your students will enjoy making these \u003cem\u003elarge\u003c\/em\u003e crafts!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.notimeforflashcards.com\/2010\/03\/pop-out-flowers.html\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eToilet Roll Flowers | No Time For Flash Cards\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.parents.com\/fun\/arts-crafts\/kid\/recycled-blooms\/\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eFlower Craft Made from Recycled Materials\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.frugalfamilyfunblog.com\/2010\/03\/crafting-with-recyclables-giant.html\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eFrugal Family Fun Blog: Crafting with Recyclables - Giant Sunflower\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734076825625,"sku":"A1906","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"safe-fingerpaint-a1912","title":"Safe Fingerpaint","description":"\u003cp\u003eSmall children, especially between the ages of one and three, have a tendency to stick \u003cem\u003eanything\u003c\/em\u003e in their mouth. Toys, interesting objects found outside, craft materials, all seem to be fair game for these youngsters. The goal of many early childhood teachers is to find activities and crafts that are safe for these curious children!\u003cbr\u003e\n\nFinger-painting has always been a great way for children to explore different textures, their artistic creativity, and \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-189-fine-motor-skills.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003efine motor skills\u003c\/a\u003e, but because of safety issues, it has been left out of many toddler classrooms. While products may claim to be non-toxic, the ramifications of ingestion are never certain, and most educators a correct in their assessment that it's better to be safe than sorry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAmanda Morgan, developer of the blog Not Just Cute, has provided a safe alternative to regular finger-painting products. Her recipe reads as follows:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCornstarch Finger-Paint\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e3 Tbsp sugar\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1\/2 cup cornstarch\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2 cups cold water\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eColoring\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLiquid soap\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBe sure to read her full post for the full directions and her ingredient suggestions. While this mixture will certainly not taste good, deterring children from trying again, it is 100% safe to use and will not harm a child if they \u003cem\u003edo\u003c\/em\u003e attempt to eat it!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/notjustcute.com\/2010\/03\/11\/this-could-be-the-safest-finger-paint-ever\/\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eThis Could Be the Safest Finger-Paint Ever « Not Just Cute\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734077022233,"sku":"A1912","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"easter-chicks-a1913","title":"Easter Chicks","description":"\u003cp\u003eWhile a class party for Easter or spring break usually don't make the schedule, when exams are finally finished and all work has been turned in, find small ways to herald in the coming vacation with fun snacks, games, and crafts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA Craftbits.com contributor posted this fun craft that can be used in a variety of ways. Made from vibrant seasonal colors, these chicks make great desk decorations, are large enough to hide eggs full of treats, and can be used for surprise drawings (i.e. whoever has the \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-5654-chart-seals-stars-multicolor.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003estar sticker\u003c\/a\u003e inside receives a free homework pass, etc.)\u003cbr\u003e\n\nSupplies You'll Need\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlastic cup (you can find orange cups at your local craft or party store)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYellow or \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-625-felt-sheets-9-x-12.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eorange felt\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-8591-array0174-card-stock-white-100-sheets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ecard stock\u003c\/a\u003e, or foam\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBlack and white felt, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-4827-array0174-card-stock-assorted-10-colors-100-sheets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ecard stock\u003c\/a\u003e, or foam\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCraft glue\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eScissors\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-166-kids-scissors.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ekids scissors\u003c\/a\u003e to cut a diamond and the shape of a chick's crest (the spiked feature on their head) from the yellow or orange felt. To begin creating the head of the chick, turn the plastic cup upside-down. The diamond will be folded in half and secured to the front of the cup to create the beak, while the crest will be glued to the top of the cup. Eyes should be crafted from the black and white materials, cut out, and glued above the beak. This is a simple craft that packs a lot of punch!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.craftbits.com\/project\/plastic-cup-easter-chicken\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ePlastic Cup Easter Chicken - DIY Craft Project Instructions\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734077055001,"sku":"A1913","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"design-a-picture-frame-with-old-cds-a1916","title":"Design a Picture Frame with Old CDs","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg title=\"CD Picture Frame\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Broken-CD-frame.jpg\" alt=\"CD Picture Frame Craft\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStudents thrive by using different materials and mediums to express their imagination and creativity. While many classroom craft cabinets are well-stocked with a variety of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-182-crafting-paper.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ecraft paper\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-102-markers.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003emarkers\u003c\/a\u003e, and other craft accessories, it is important to think beyond traditional arts and craft supplies to inspire originality and ingenuity. California art teacher Kathy Barbro provides a wonderful opportunity to do just that!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo begin, provide each of your students with a wooden picture frame and a blank (or recycled) CD. Taking turns with a heavy duty pair of scissors, instruct your students to cut the CD into strips measuring about one-half an inch. These strips should then be cut into half-inch squares. Remind your students that the shiny film is important to the project, so cutting should be slow and mindful as the film has a tendency to peel away from the plastic disc.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAllow your students to experiment with patterns and piece placement on the frame, gluing their final projects together with craft glue and setting aside to dry. Cover with a coat of metallic paint and students will be delighted to give the frame as a gift for an upcoming birthday or even Mother's day!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/artprojectsforkids.org\/cd-frame-with-handcolored-photo\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eART PROJECTS FOR KIDS: Mosaic CD Picture Frame\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734077153305,"sku":"A1916","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Broken-CD-frame.jpg?v=1522781532"},{"product_id":"silly-eyeglasses-a1919","title":"Silly Eyeglasses","description":"\u003cp\u003eAt their core, children love to be silly. Since school can sometimes squelch this energy and attempt to redirect it, as a way of really speaking to your students, set aside some appropriate moments for giggling, laughter, and just plain silliness! While maintaining the boundaries of appropriate behavior, April Fool's Day can be a fun time to encourage your students to let loose!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCreative California art teacher Kathy Barbro provides just the right accessory--goofy eyeglasses! To begin, make several different eyeglasses templates so that students can choose their favorite shape, detailing, etc. Instruct them to trace and cut their own pair of glasses from thick card stock. A decorating station stocked with \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-367-glitter.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eglitter\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-42-teacher-stickers.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003estickers\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-102-markers.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003emarkers\u003c\/a\u003e, and \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-129-colored-pencils.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ecolored pencils\u003c\/a\u003e should be set up for students to work on making their frames unique.\u003cbr\u003e\n\nFor silly eyes, Barbro suggests finding stock photo images to enhance and copy or having students draw their own inserts. When they have settled on the right 'look', instruct your students to cut them out (with the surrounding skin) and paste them into the frame openings. Students will enjoy posing for pictures with the finished glasses and taking them home to show siblings and parents. Just be sure to instruct them not to walk when wearing them. They will impede vision and could cause accidents.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.artprojectsforkids.org\/2008\/02\/april-fools-eye-glasses.html\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eART PROJECTS FOR KIDS: April Fool's Eye Glasses\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734077251609,"sku":"A1919","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"colorful-cultural-artwork-a1931","title":"Colorful Cultural Artwork","description":"\u003cp\u003eKathy Barbro, art teacher from California and creator of the website Art Projects for Kids, loves to bring color and culture into her classroom and has done a marvelous job with these Maasai African portraits. Located in northern Tanzania and Kenya, this African tribe is known for their distinctive headdresses, jewelry, and clothing providing a great opportunity for discovery and creativity during craft time.\u003cbr\u003e\n\nThis project requires few materials; a piece of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-2213-art1st0153-drawing-pad-11-x-14.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003edrawing paper\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-504-art-tissue-paper.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003epatterned tissue paper\u003c\/a\u003e, and various sized black \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-102-markers.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003emarkers\u003c\/a\u003e. Using pictures printed from the internet or found in resource books, have your students draw their portrait on a piece of drawing paper. Once finished, a piece of tissue paper should be taped to the front of the drawing paper so that portrait lines can be transferred onto the tissue paper.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLines should be carefully re-traced with black marker. After the basic portrait shapes have been reconstructed, instruct your students to use the black marker to color in the face and other appropriate detailing. Remind your students to be careful as the tissue paper is not as strong as most mediums and could tear. Because of this, Barbro suggests the project be completed with third graders or older. The finished product is vibrantly colorful and will add some excitement to tired classroom walls!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca target=\"blank\" href=\"http:\/\/artprojectsforkids.org\/maasai-african-portraits\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eART PROJECTS FOR KIDS: Maasai African Portraits\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734077644825,"sku":"A1931","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"a-perfect-compliment-to-spring-a1932","title":"A Perfect Compliment to Spring","description":"\u003cp\u003eAs the weather has officially begun to change bringing with it more sunshine, warmth, and color, take from nature and incorporate these wonderful elements into your classroom craft time and decorations with a flower garden. Unfortunately, many teachers feel as if they need a specific reason to make a craft, so if you need to justify these beautiful spring creations, use them for your celebration of the first day of spring, Easter, or even Mother's Day.\u003cbr\u003e\n\n\u003cstrong\u003eSupplies You'll Need\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n- Coffee filters\u003cbr\u003e\n- \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-69-paint-painting-supplies.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ePaint\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n- Water\u003cbr\u003e\n- Paintbrushes\u003cbr\u003e\n- \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-5723-chenille-stems-green.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eGreen pipe cleaners\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBecause coffee filters soak up liquid, allowing designs and patters to diffuse into each other, you'll want to mix each dish of paint with water for the best results. For each color you should follow the approximate ratio of four parts water to one part paint. When the paint has been prepared, allow your students to start creating. Encourage them to use more than one color and to be creative with designs and patterns. Once the flowers have dried, open the filter to create a cone shape, twist the bottom into a point, and attache the pipe cleaner as a stem. These flowers look lovely in a vase or as \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-54-classroom-decorations.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ebulletin board decorations\u003c\/a\u003e, and can also double as a gift for someone special!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734077677593,"sku":"A1932","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"an-adaptation-of-mexican-bark-paintings-a1933","title":"An Adaptation of Mexican Bark Paintings","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg title=\"Mexican Bark Bird Painting\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/bark-painting.jpg\" alt=\"Mexican Bark Painting of a Bird\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOriginal Mexican bark paintings were created using the bark from mulberry or fig trees. Flat pieces were collected, washed and boiled, then beaten with stone until the fibers fused together. Known for their use of vibrant colors, artists used these bark canvases to paint scenes from everyday village life including flowers, birds, and other animals. Teach Kids Art, a blog featuring children's art lessons, shares a wonderful adaptation of these traditional Mexican bark paintings for your students to enjoy!\u003cbr\u003e\n\n\u003cstrong\u003eSupplies You'll Need\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n- Brown paper grocery bag\u003cbr\u003e\n- Pencil\u003cbr\u003e\n- Eraser\u003cbr\u003e\n- Black permanent marker\u003cbr\u003e\n- \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-4493-crayola0174-washable-broad-line-markers-classic-colors.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eWashable markers\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n- \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-8639-artista-ii0174-liquid-tempera-paint-16-oz-white.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eWhite tempera paint\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n- Paintbrush (size 2)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBefore beginning, cut each grocery bag apart to create a 12 x 14 'canvas' for each student. Providing some pictures of Mexican bark paintings for inspiration, instruct your students to draw animals, birds, and flowers with pencil incorporating decorative and 'fanciful' lines and shapes. These lines should then be traced with black permanent marker.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo re-create the texture of the traditional bark paper, have your students crinkle their canvas, smooth it flat, and then repeat until there is an even texture throughout. Leave under a book overnight to 'flatten' the paper and then use markers to color in the designs, adding small white dots of paint to objects to make them stand out. A great lesson in culture, use of different art mediums, and a fun classroom decoration!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca target=\"blank\" href=\"http:\/\/www.teachkidsart.net\/mexican-bark-painting\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eTeachKidsArt: March 2010\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734077775897,"sku":"A1933","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/bark-painting.jpg?v=1522781536"},{"product_id":"comical-bunny-hat-and-glasses-a1939","title":"Comical Bunny Hat and Glasses","description":"\u003cp\u003eHere's a project that is sure to be a hit in your classroom this Easter! Posted by Busy Bee Kids Crafts, this funny bunny hat (glasses included) will be perfect for all classrooms!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo begin, make a copy of the provided templates with \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-8591-array0174-card-stock-white-100-sheets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ecard stock\u003c\/a\u003e. While children should be taught to share and take turns, one template seems imprudent for a classroom of twenty-five so create a sturdy template for each group of four students.\u003cbr\u003e\n\n\u003cstrong\u003eSupplies You'll Need\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n- Pink, black, and white \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-63-construction-paper.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003econstruction paper\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n- Pink or \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-5720-chenille-stems-white.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ewhite chenille stems\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n- \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-166-kids-scissors.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eKids scissors\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n- \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-248-glue-adhesives.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eCraft glue\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n- Stapler\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTrace the bunny ears and nose onto pink paper, the glasses on black, and the teeth onto \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-6012-sunworks0174-construction-paper-12-x-18-white.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ewhite construction paper\u003c\/a\u003e. Use craft scissors to cut each piece out. Glue one chenille stem onto the back of each ear in order to make it 'bendable'. Form a headband from construction paper and use the stapler to hold it together. Glue the bunny 'face' together, using the glasses, nose, and teeth, then attach to the bottom of the headband. Complete the hat by gluing the ears to the top and have fun!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.busybeekidscrafts.com\/Funny-Bunny-Hat.html\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eFunny Bunny Hat\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734077939737,"sku":"A1939","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"painting-with-textures-bubble-wrap-a1940","title":"Painting with Textures: Bubble Wrap","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg title=\"Bubble Wrap Journal Cover\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Journal-Bubble-Wrap-Print.jpg\" alt=\"Bubble Wrap Paint Prints\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile there's something to be said about learning specific painting techniques and honing specific skills, it can also be fun to take a break from the precision and play around with different textures and art mediums. Art teacher and blogger, Kathy Barbro, suggests exploring the use of bubble wrap.\n\nEasily found in the packaging aisle at Walmart, the post office, or other home stores, bubble wrap is relatively inexpensive and leaves a fun texture behind. Barbro had her students choose one color of paint to make a journal print, paper towels to soak up any extra paint, and then \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-129-colored-pencils.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ecolored pencils\u003c\/a\u003e to fill in the bubbles. Other teachers have suggested one multicolored print or layering solid color prints.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs you experiment, ask your students what the texture resembles in real life (i.e. fish or dragon scales). You may be surprised by the ingenuity of your students. Encourage your students to experiment making these items using the textured bubble wrap. This is a simple project that can offer loads of variation and hours of fun!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca target=\"blank\" href=\"http:\/\/artprojectsforkids.org\/printing-with-bubblewrap-2\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eART PROJECTS FOR KIDS: Art Journaling 125\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734077972505,"sku":"A1940","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Journal-Bubble-Wrap-Print.jpg?v=1522781537"},{"product_id":"shaving-cream-art-a1942","title":"Shaving Cream Art","description":"\u003cp\u003eEver heard of painting with shaving cream? Jen, art psychotherapist and paint cut paste blogger, has shared this fun craft that can be used for children of all ages!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStart by collecting several trays or cookie sheets. It will work best if students work in teams of two or three when completing this activity, so plan trays accordingly. Spray the tray with shaving cream, about an inch deep, and encourage your students to use their hands to spread it out. Allow each team to choose three colors to experiment with. As Jen suggests, so that the finished product doesn't turn brown or gray, encourage them to choose analogous colors (i.e. they sit next to each other on the color wheel and therefore blend well together). For the best results, Jen recommends using \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-232-watercolor-paint.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eliquid watercolor paints\u003c\/a\u003e. These products work well with many other projects and can be purchased at your local or web-based supply stores.\n\nOnce you have squirted on their colors of choice, instruct your students to use plastic forks to swirl the paint through the shaving cream. For interesting 'marble' prints, press a piece of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-76-paper-for-crafts-poster-board.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003edrawing paper\u003c\/a\u003e onto the shaving cream at different stages of blending. Instruct your students to use recycled cardboard pieces to scrape excess shaving cream from the prints and then set them aside to dry. While messy, this activity is fully washable and provides wonderful prints for display or use in other art projects!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/paintcutpaste.com\/marbled-paper\/\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003emarbled paper | paint cut paste\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734078038041,"sku":"A1942","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"3-d-sandwiches-a1944","title":"3-D Sandwiches","description":"\u003cp\u003eWhile many teachers have encouraged their students to explore their favorite sandwich or hamburger with a pencil and \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-2300-cream-manila-drawing-paper-12-x-18-50-lb.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003edrawing paper\u003c\/a\u003e, Jacqueline's three-dimensional colorful collages have breathed new life into the project! Focusing on \"texture, balance, and variety\", this project allows your students to explore new mediums and think outside the box (e.g. green crepe paper or lettuce?).\n\n\u003cb\u003eJacqueline's list of supplies includes:\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/b\u003e- Piece of colored cardboard (A3)\u003cbr\u003e\n- Scraps of colored paper or \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-63-construction-paper.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003econstruction paper\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n- Ribbed cardboard\u003cbr\u003e\n- Assorted pasta\u003cbr\u003e\n- Seeds, tealeaves, and other natural materials\u003cbr\u003e\n- Crepe paper\u003cbr\u003e\n- Yarn\u003cbr\u003e\n- Cotton\u003cbr\u003e\n- \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-248-glue-adhesives.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eCraft glue\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n- \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-166-kids-scissors.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eKids scissors\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n- And of course, anything else you or your student's can think of!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn building this sandwich, students should start from the bottom-up by first designing a tablecloth and plate, and then making their first piece of bread or bun with the ribbed cardboard. Encourage your students to think about their favorite foods and be creative! Remind them that three-dimensional elements are required and that the finished product will look much more full if pieces are overlapped. When enough ingredients have been placed on the sandwich, add the top bun and admire the colorful creations!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/kidsartists.blogspot.com\/2009\/10\/texture-balance-and-variety-were.html\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eKids Artists: Building sandwiches\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734078070809,"sku":"A1944","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"sunchatchers-for-vibrant-easter-decorations-a1951","title":"Sunchatchers for Vibrant Easter Decorations","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe dynamic colors used in Easter and spring crafts are brilliant for adding a splash of color to dormant winter classrooms! Especially for those that have windows, creating themed suncatchers will bring your classroom decor to a whole new level.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSupplies You'll Need\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n- \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-3605-transparency-film-write-on-transparencies.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eOverhead transparencies\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n- Glass paints or markers\u003cbr\u003e\n- \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-3138-paper-punches-1-hole-wmetal-catcher.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eHole punch\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n- Ribbon\u003cbr\u003e\n- \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-166-kids-scissors.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eKids scissors\u003c\/a\u003e\n\nEncourage your students to design their own Easter theme. Some may choose to leave their canvas the way it is and draw a picture, fun patters and designs, or decorate using words and symbols. Other students may decide to cut their transparency into a specific shape such as an Easter egg, a flower, a bunny, or even an Easter basket. Encourage greater detail if you're working with older students. Leave the crafts to dry overnight, add a construction paper border if appropriate, and use a hole punch and ribbon to hang these masterpieces on the classroom windows. This is a wonderful activity to display through the season and a beautiful gift to take home afterward!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.activityvillage.co.uk\/easter_egg_suncatcher.htm\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eEaster Egg Suncatcher - Easter Kids Craft\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734078300185,"sku":"A1951","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/collections\/Beach-3.jpg?v=1530027736","url":"https:\/\/www.supplyme.com\/collections\/crafts\/topic-native-americans.oembed","provider":"SupplyMe","version":"1.0","type":"link"}