{"title":"Gross Motor Skills","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"music-in-the-classroom-a1836","title":"Music in the Classroom","description":"\u003cp\u003eMany educators have advocated the use of music in the classroom for child development. In her article “\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.childrensmusicworkshop.com\/advocacy\/12benefits.html\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eTwelve Benefits of Music Education\u003c\/a\u003e”, Carolyn Phillips cites brain development, specifically in the areas of language and reasoning, positively influenced spatial intelligence, exploration of creativity, increased problem solving skills, discipline, and teamwork, among many more, as important reasons for incorporating music into the curriculum. Educator and author \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.parenthood.com\/article-topics\/how_music_benefits_children.html\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eDon Campbell\u003c\/a\u003e agrees, adding that music helps “motor development and coordination, increases emotional awareness, strengthens social skills, and aids in relaxation and stress reduction”. A great way to encourage music and singing in the classroom is to have your students create their own instruments to use during free play and circle time.\n\n\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/nz.lifestyle.yahoo.com\/better-homes-gardens\/article\/-\/5823321\/making-music\/\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eBetter Homes and Gardens\u003c\/a\u003e provides an excellent resource, including pictures and step-by-step instructions, for the creation of four wonderfully fun instruments. In conservation of supplies, you may find it helpful to have students choose only one of the four instruments to make, or even pick a single craft to be completed by the entire class. If supplies aren’t an issue, you may also find it fun to allow each child to make a different instrument each day of the week so that they have a completed set. Once the projects have been finished, look for ways you can incorporate these fun crafts into daily activities. Invite your students to strum their guitars or shake their maracas when learning a new song in circle time. Discuss each instrument; what sound they make, how they feel, what part of the world they come from, etc. Provide play microphones and fun costumes to encourage student imagination during free play.\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\"\u003eDiscount classroom carpets\u003c\/a\u003e that will create a fun learning environment in any classroom!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734074433561,"sku":"A1836","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"comprehensive-spring-lesson-for-toddlers-a1867","title":"Comprehensive Spring Lesson For Toddlers","description":"\u003cp\u003ePutting together a comprehensive lesson plan for your toddlers can sometimes be a challenge. With short attention spans and varied development stages, it may feel like you put a lot of time and energy into a lesson without the desired effects. Because of this it can be easy to get lost in what wasn’t accomplished and lose sight of the overall goal—genuine learning. Remember that every class will be different and that flexibility is the key. If you don’t get through each lesson component, use it another day. If you find the activity too challenging, tailor it or scrap it completely and move on.\n\nErin, Totally Tots contributor, has posted a comprehensive spring lesson plan for toddlers centered around Easter, spring, and the book “The Noisy Egg” by Judith Nicholls that’s great to use when you’re feeling burnt out and need a break from planning! It includes the following components:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e•\tReading Circle: “The Noisy Egg” by Judith Nicholls and “Five Little Ducks” by Justine Smith.\n•\tMusic: Five Little Ducks.\n•\tCraft Time: Duck cutouts with a focus on shapes and fine motor skills.\n•\tSensory Science: Children play with floating ducks in the sand and water table.\n•\tSnack Time: Chocolate lollipops in the shape of a duck.\n•\tMuscle Development: Pretend to be a duck.\n•\tMath: Counting ducks.\n•\tGames: “Lucky Ducks”.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese activities can be used for one class period or can be split up between days. Just remember to be flexible and have fun!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/totallytots.blogspot.com\/2010\/03\/once-upon-book-noisy-egg.html\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eTotally Tots: Once Upon a Book ~ The Noisy Egg\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\"\u003eClassroom circle time rugs\u003c\/a\u003e should be soft, durable, fun for the students.  Check out our selection today!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734075482137,"sku":"A1867","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"finally-paper-planes-are-appropriate-in-school-a1889","title":"Finally…Paper Planes Are Appropriate In School!","description":"\u003cp\u003eWhile most educators spend their days attempting to keep cell phones, toys, and other contraband out of the classroom, adapting a few lessons to embrace these inevitabilities can offer a unique learning experience for your students. Shirley, a preschool activities blogger, invites you to do just that by opening your mind to the possibilities of learning through paper planes.\n\nFor teachers not schooled in the art of folding paper planes, it is best to do your research before attempting this activity. Search online or go to your local library to find books on folding different types of paper planes. “The Ultimate Paper Plane Book” by Paul Jackson is an excellent resource, providing pictures and written instructions for your students to follow. Keeping in mind the age and skill level of your students choose three or four plane models and make copies for students to use. Make these available during the activity, but encourage individual ingenuity as well. Some students may have already ‘perfected’ the ideal plane.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProvide colorfully pattered \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-182-crafting-paper.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ecraft paper\u003c\/a\u003e or encourage students decorate their planes with markers and stickers. Once your students are satisfied with their crafts, hold a contest in the hallway to see which design and throwing skill causes the plane to fly the furthest. With this activity, students will learn to follow directions, improve both fine and gross motor skills through folding and throwing, and will get hands on experience in counting and measuring.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.shirleys-preschool-activities.com\/paper-plane-math-activity.html\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ePaper Plane Math Activity\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGet an \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-276-classroom-rugs-classroom-carpets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eeducational rug\u003c\/a\u003e for your classroom!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734076268569,"sku":"A1889","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"skill-building-games-a1905","title":"Skill Building Games","description":"\u003cp\u003eOjami are small Japanese bean bags used to play Otedama, a traditional \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-117-games-puzzles.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003echildren's game\u003c\/a\u003e that incorporates juggling with other rules similar to jacks. While the game has lost some popularity in Japan, with most under the age of thirty-five never having played it, it is a great way to encourage hand-eye coordination, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-168-gross-motor-skills.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003egross motor skills\u003c\/a\u003e, and problem solving in the classroom!\u003cbr\u003e\n\nActivity Village provides four variations of Otedama based on skill level. Even if you expect that your students will be able to complete the most challenging, it's fun to start from the the beginning and work your way up just to get experience handling the ojami. Your students will build essential skills while learning about a different culture, the importance of active play, and burning off some extra energy!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you want to make a day of it, research games from other cultures and set up stations around the classroom for your students to visit and participate in. It might also be fun to partner with teachers on your floor, setting up a different theme in each classroom, or coordinate with your \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-443-physical-education.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ephysical education\u003c\/a\u003e teacher to hold a 'World Fair' in the gymnasium.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.activityvillage.co.uk\/otedama_games.htm\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eOtedama Games\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734076792857,"sku":"A1905","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"bean-bag-games-for-your-preschooler-a1981","title":"Bean Bag Games for Your Preschooler","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-1060-bean-bags.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eBean bags\u003c\/a\u003e are a great way to burn off some energy, build \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-168-gross-motor-skills.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003egross motor skills\u003c\/a\u003e, and strengthen your students' concentration. The great thing is, they can be used with any age group as any game or concept can be tailored to fit the skill level of your classroom. Allison McDonald, a craft contributor for the parenting blog at Family Education, has provided several guidelines and game ideas for your preschool classroom.\n\nIt may take some searching, but McDonald suggests investing in some fun, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-7104-alphabet-bean-bags.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eeducational bean bags\u003c\/a\u003e that will offer plenty of activity variations. Shoot for multicolored bags that come in different shapes, display letters, numbers, or phonetic items, and are a size that will be easy for your students to handle. Many teacher supply stores or websites also offer music CDs, activity boards, and other packages that can supplement your bean bag fun!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce you have the proper materials selected, check out the rest of McDonald's post for fun and easy educational games that include sorting, a near and far toss, fun with color, letter, or shape recognition, and hide and seek. You'll be sure to keep your preschoolers busy and enthusiastic with this fun addition to your classroom!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/blogs.familyeducation.com\/parenting\/moms\/allison-mcdonald\/4-easy-bean-bag-games\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003e4 easy bean bag games! Mom's Parenting Blog by Allison McDonald - FamilyEducation\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734079250457,"sku":"A1981","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"classroom-ring-toss-game-a2036","title":"Classroom Ring Toss Game","description":"\u003cp\u003ePerfect for outside fun or a rainy day, this ring toss game will hone your students' fine and gross motor skills while burning off some of their excess energies!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSupplies You'll Need\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n- Recycled cardboard box (a square that's at least 14\" x 14\")\u003cbr\u003e\n- 9 \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-338-mini-spring-clothespins-natural.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ewooden clothespins\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n- Mason jar rings\u003cbr\u003e\n- Exacto knife\u003cbr\u003e\n- \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-1634-crayola0174-washable-tempera-set-3-ct-primary-colors-red-yellow-blue.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eTempera paint\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-102-markers.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eCrayola markers\u003c\/a\u003e\n\nTo secure your clothespins to the box, you'll need to cut a pair of slits close together for each pin. Plan the pin spacing (usually 3 by 3), then use your Exacto knife to create the cuts. The prongs of the wooden clothespins can then be forced into these slits to anchor them to the game board. With \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-69-paint.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003epaint\u003c\/a\u003e or markers number each clothespin. These should not be in succession, but rather a random placement of numbers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor classroom fun, set the game board on the floor and use masking tape to create a 'toss line'. Instruct your students to kneel, tossing the mason jar rings at the clothespins. Scoring is based on which pins are ringed (i.e. if the student hits the \"1\", \"3\", and \"9\", their score would be \"13\"). Keep moving the 'toss line' back in order to make it more challenging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.artistshelpingchildren.org\/kidscraftsactivitiesblog\/2010\/04\/how-to-make-a-ring-toss-throwing-game-crafts-idea-for-kids\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eHow to Make a Ring Toss Throwing Game Crafts Idea for Kids « Cardboard Boxes \u0026amp;Laquo; Crafts With « Kids Crafts \u0026amp; Activities\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734081249305,"sku":"A2036","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"painting-with-fly-swatters-a2041","title":"Painting with Fly Swatters","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis activity is not for the faint-hearted! It's messy and requires lots of space, but the results are fantastic!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSupplies You'll Need\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n- Fly swatters\u003cbr\u003e\n- \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-8637-artista-ii0174-liquid-tempera-paint-16-oz-green.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eTempera paint\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n- \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-121-chart-tablets-24-x-32-assorted-1-12-ruled.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eThick easel paper\u003c\/a\u003e\n\nIf you can manage (and get the 'ok' from your director or administrators), set up your \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-38-kids-easels.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ekids' easels\u003c\/a\u003e in the school yard. This will save walls, ceilings, doors, etc. from the paint splatter that will likely ensue. Send a note home to parents asking them to pack a set of old clothes so that children won't mess up their nice ones. Arm each child with a fly swatter, some shallow containers of paint, and let the fun begin!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTeacher Tom likes to draw small flies onto each child's sheet so that they have something to 'aim' at. Additionally, as a pre- or post-spatter activity, Old Black Fly by Jim Aylesworth and Stephanie's Ponytail by Robert Munsch make excellent story-time material. Again, this activity is not for the faint-hearted, but the results can be frame-worthy!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/teachertomsblog.blogspot.com\/2010\/04\/fly-swatter-painting.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eTeacher Tom: Fly Swatter Painting!\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734081413145,"sku":"A2041","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"painting-with-squirt-bottles-a2047","title":"Painting with Squirt Bottles","description":"\u003cp\u003eIf you're looking for outdoor activities to do with your students, this art project should certainly make your list! It hones \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-168-gross-motor-skills.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003egross motor skills\u003c\/a\u003e, introduces students to problem solving, provides a new way for children to observe primary and secondary colors, and gives students the opportunity to explore their individual creativity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSupplies You'll Need\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n- \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-38-kids-easels.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eKids easel\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n- Thick \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-12028-easel-paper-roll-hanger-24.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eeasel paper roll\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n- Empty pump-action squirt bottles\u003cbr\u003e\n- \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-69-paint.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eCraft paint\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n- Water\n\nDilute your paint with water. You may wish to use watercolor paint tablets that dissolve or even tempera paint; either will work for this activity. Fill each squirt bottle with a different color and set them by your outside easel. Make sure that you have a station for clean-up once children have completed this activity. Fill a plastic tub with warm, soapy water and provide sheets of paper towel (enough so that each child can use one to wash his\/her hands and one to dry).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile most children have learned to be respectful during art projects, remind your students that the success of the project relies on their willingness to follow directions (i.e. no squirting themselves or others).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOverall, this project will be a great learning experience and provide lots of outdoor fun for your classroom this spring!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.playbasedlearning.com.au\/2010\/04\/pump-action-painting\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eIrresistible Ideas for play based learning » Blog Archive » pump action squirt painting\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734081576985,"sku":"A2047","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"free-play-in-your-toddler-classroom-a2121","title":"Free Play in Your Toddler Classroom","description":"\u003cp\u003eWith \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-446-infant-toddler.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003etoddlers\u003c\/a\u003e, play-based learning is highly beneficial. Since their attention span is much shorter than older children, organized lessons can sometimes fall flat, but by taking advantage of organic learning opportunities created through normal play, your students are on the fast track to completing all the learning objectives on your list!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTrucks \u0026amp; Cars\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBy observing your toddlers as they push around their Matchbox cars and oversized trucks, you'll notice that more is at work than simple play:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAs they push the cars up inclines and over bridges they're discovering gravity.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThey experiment with motion and speed as they 'race' cars around the classroom (and sometimes in to walls!).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStudents tap in to problem solving skills during activity.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAs students work and play together, they learn critical social skills.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003eWhen explaining to you or other students what is happening (e.g. how the car performs on the bridge, what the name of their driver is, etc.) they are refining language skills.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGross and fine motor skills are being strengthened as they 'drive' their vehicles up, around, under, and everywhere!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAs they drive their cars, students are exploring the uses of wheels and how they work.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTake inventory of the toys, games, and puzzles around your toddler classroom, then begin organizing them by important learning objectives and concepts. In this way, you can begin to 'highlight' certain play activities to fulfill daily goals!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/early-childhood-resources.com\/2010\/05\/play-cars-trucks\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eWe Play - Cars and Trucks\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor your \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-276-classroom-rugs-classroom-carpets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eclassroom rugs\u003c\/a\u003e, learning aids, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-452-toys.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003etoys\u003c\/a\u003e, and \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-37-school-furniture.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eschool furniture\u003c\/a\u003e needs, check out the great selection at MPM School Supplies!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734084132889,"sku":"A2121","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"paint-walking-in-preschool-a2153","title":"Paint Walking in Preschool","description":"\u003cp\u003eGive your preschoolers a new sensory experience with this fun exercise from Teacher Tom! Not only will it give your students a chance to get messy, it will give them the opportunity to get outside, soak up the fresh air, practice important gross motor movements, and 'play' off some of the excess energies!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSupplies You'll Need\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n- Three large tubs\u003cbr\u003e\n- \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-69-paint.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eCraft paint\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n- \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-217-bulletin-board-paper.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eBulletin board paper roll\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n- \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-94-tape-adhesives.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eTape\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo prepare the activity area, cut four long strips of paper and tape them together to form a square. Then tape the paper to a secure part of the parking lot or playground and line the inside with chairs (backs facing out) for balance support. At one corner, place a large tub filled with paint and chairs with a clean-up station (e.g. a tub of warm soapy water with paper towels for washing and a tub of warm water for rinsing with paper towel for drying).\n\nHave your students take turns dipping their feet into the paint and taking a 'walk' around the paper. It will work best to divide your students into groups and time them as they play. Give each group 5 minutes of play, then rotate them into another activity. It also works better if you have parent or older student volunteers to help during this and the other activities that will be going on at the same time!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile this activity was done in a preschool classroom, older students will also enjoy this exercise!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca rel=\"nofollow\" href=\"http:\/\/teachertomsblog.blogspot.com\/2010\/05\/paint-walking.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eTeacher Tom: Paint Walking\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734085345305,"sku":"A2153","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"spin-art-fun-a2165","title":"Spin Art Fun!","description":"\u003cp\u003ePaint Cut Paste blog creator recently posted a wonderful project that combines vibrant color and fine\/gross motor skills. What is it? Spin art! While she and her daughter used a spinner machine to create fantastic prints, rest assured, this project can be completed without 'expensive' tools.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSupplies You'll Need\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e - Cheap salad spinner\u003cbr\u003e - \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\u003cbr\u003e - \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-69-paint.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eCraft paint\u003c\/a\u003e in assorted colors\u003cbr\u003e - \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-202-pens-pencils.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ePencil\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e - \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-166-kids-scissors.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eKids craft scissors\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBefore beginning the project, remove the plastic basket from your inexpensive salad spinner and trace the bottom onto a piece of card stock. Photocopy this pattern onto assorted colors of card stock and cut them out. A stack of these prefabricated papers should be placed at each 'spinning station'. Demonstrate to your students how to use the salad spinner, then instruct them to place their card stock circle at the bottom of the basket, squirt small drops of paint in a pattern on the paper, replace the lid, and SPIN! Students will learn how to take turns, learn about patterning and color mixing, and use some of their pent up energies to make the project work!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734086000665,"sku":"A2165","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"unconventional-painting-method-for-preschool-a2194","title":"Unconventional Painting Method for Preschool","description":"\u003cp\u003eIf you feel that your classroom painting process is getting old and uninspired, try this wonderful craft idea from Deborah J. Stewart at Teach Preschool. Your students will love it!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSupplies You'll Need\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n- Recycled cardboard box\u003cbr\u003e\n- \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-69-paint.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eTempera paint\u003c\/a\u003e in assorted colors\u003cbr\u003e\n- \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-76-paper-for-crafts-poster-board.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eCraft paper\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n- Golf ball, ping pong ball, or other round object\u003cbr\u003e\n- \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-94-tape-adhesives.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eTape\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBegin by lining the bottom of the cardboard box with a sheet of white craft or drawing paper. Choose several complimentary paint colors, placing a small drop of each in the center of the paper. Add a golf ball to the box, close the flaps (and tape the to make sure the \"mess\" stays inside the box), and hand it off to your students to push, kick, and move around the classroom. Not only will your students have fun with this unconventional painting method, they'll be sure to burn off their extra energies so they can focus the rest of the day! And, of course, the results will be display-worthy!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor pictures and other great information be sure to check out the rest of Stewart's blog!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/deborahjstewart.com\/2010\/07\/kick-box-painting-with-toddlers\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eKick box painting with toddlers\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734087147545,"sku":"A2194","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"getting-to-know-your-students-in-preschool-a2198","title":"Getting To Know Your Students in Preschool","description":"\u003cp\u003eSome teachers fail to realize that they're not the only ones who have to learn the names during the first week of school. In \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-58-early-childhood.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003epreschool\u003c\/a\u003e especially, where most of the children haven't met before, it can seem like a daunting task to keep track of every new acquaintance. (And almost nearly impossible for children that have difficulty with names in the first place!) Karen Cox, featured in the Teachers.Net Gazette as well as the creator of PreKPages, has compiled a list of activities that you can complete with your preschoolers to help them get to know one another and start off the year on the right foot!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLearning with \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-443-physical-education.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eBean Bags\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFinding common ground and making associations can sometimes make it easier to learn names. Have your students form a circle then toss a bean bag to a student asking them to introduce themselves and answer a fun question (e.g. what's your favorite ice cream topping, color, game, etc.). After answering, have the child toss the bean bag back to you then repeat with another student.\n\n\u003cstrong\u003eFriend B-I-N-G-O\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCreate B-I-N-G-O cards with photos of your students. As preschoolers won't have a school picture from the year before, take time out of class the first day to snap a picture of each student. Also create a set of \"calling cards\". Throughout the first week, play the game every day and keep watch for children who need extra help. In some cases they may just have trouble with recall or they may not be as social, etc. and need help getting to know their peers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor more great ideas, be sure to read Cox's full post at Teachers.Net and visit her blog!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/teachers.net\/gazette\/wordpress\/karen-cox\/getting-to-know-you-activities-karens-pre-k-page\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eGazette » Getting to Know You Activities – Karen’s Pre-K Page\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734087344153,"sku":"A2198","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"if-you-give-a-mouse-a-cookie-a-lesson-in-economics-a2882","title":"If You Give A Mouse A Cookie: A Lesson In Economics","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg class=\"alignright size-full wp-image-1834\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/If-You-Give-A-Mouse-A-Cookie.jpg\" alt=\"Social Studies and Children's Literature Kindergarten Lesson Plan\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003eWhile your kindergartners may not understand the term 'economics', they'll certainly understand what it means to \u003cem\u003ewant\u003c\/em\u003e something. Mary Suiter, lesson contributor to A to Z Teacher Stuff, has designed a relevant economics lesson for your students that will help them comprehend the concepts of cause and effect, demand, and the difference between a good and a service.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMaterials You'll Need\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-850-drawing-paper.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eDrawing paper\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGraphic art tools (\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-102-markers.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ewashable markers\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-165-crayons.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ecrayons\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-129-colored-pencils.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ecolored pencils\u003c\/a\u003e, etc.)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\"\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-28401-if-you-give-a-mouse-a-cookie.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eIf You Give A Mouse A Cookie\u003c\/a\u003e\" by Laura Numeroff\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuiter suggest beginning the lesson with a discussion on cause and effect using simple sentence examples your students will understand.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-13\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Cause-Effect-Relationships.jpg\" alt=\"\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter discussing several examples, invite your students to come up with their own cause\/effect statements or provide them with several cause statements (e.g. \"Morgan decided not to clean her room...\", \"Daniel sat quietly at his desk and finished his work...\", etc.) and invite them to finish them with effect statements.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOnce students demonstrate an understanding of cause and effect, introduce and read Numeroff's \"If You Give A Mouse A Cookie\". (NOTE: Before reading, it can be fun to pose the title as a cause statement and invite students to predict the effect statement!) After finishing the story, Suiter recommends completing the following activities:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReview the events of the story. This can be done playing a memory \"chain\" game. Have students create a circle. Ask for a student volunteer to start the game. Pass them a bean bag and have them say the first item the mouse wanted after being given a cookie (milk). Instruct them to pass the bean bag to a friend anywhere in the circle who is to recite the first \u003cem\u003eand\u003c\/em\u003e second things (milk, straw). As your students pass the bean bag, continue building up the list until you've recounted every item. Not only will your students be strengthening memory and gross motor skills, they're sure to have a blast!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReview the concepts of cause and effect. Use the events in the story to construct cause and effect statements. Discuss as a class why these statements make sense.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroduce the concepts of goods and services. Everything that the mouse wanted could fall under the umbrella of a good or a service. Give students the definitions of these terms and invite them to brainstorm other goods and services that they use every day.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroduce the concept of demand. Describe the difference between wants and needs. Introduce to students the idea that they themselves are consumers (just like the mouse, or their parents, or their neighbors, etc.) who have specific and unlimited wants and needs.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCombine the concepts to create and illustrate a story. As a class, create your own story, modeled after \"If You Give A Mouse A Cookie\". Here students will get extra practice with cause and effect, practice distinguishing between goods and services, and make connections between related goods as well as demand. Provide students with drawing materials and have each student illustrate a different part of the class story. This can later be bound and put in the classroom library or sent home for children to share with their families.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile this is certainly not a complete list, Suitor gives some great ideas on how to bridge the gap between economics and this delightful children's storybook. Your students are sure to have a blast!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/ecedweb.unomaha.edu\/lessons\/mouse.htm\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eLesson: Give a Mouse a Cookie\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734089048089,"sku":"A2882","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/If-You-Give-A-Mouse-A-Cookie.jpg?v=1522781603"},{"product_id":"the-science-of-wrecking-balls-a3704","title":"The Science of Wrecking Balls!","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-full wp-image-74  \" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Wrecking-Ball-Science.jpg\" alt=\"knocking colorful blocks over with a homemade wrecking ball\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: www.notimeforflashcards.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is another great lesson to incorporate during your preschool construction theme – wrecking ball science! Not only will it help your students make connections in physics, much to their collective delight, they’ll get to experiment with controlled demolition! Who doesn’t like knocking towers over!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eExperiment Procedure\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKim, creator of the blog Mom Tried It and contributor to \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.notimeforflashcards.com\/2010\/10\/wrecking-ball-science.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eNo Time For Flash Cards\u003c\/a\u003e, provides a wonderful tutorial for this experiment. She includes:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA list of needed materials.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStep-by-step set-up instructions.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePicture instructions for each step.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eObservations, suggestions, and pointers.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eExperiment Fun\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eLet your students be as creative as they please…\u003c\/em\u003e While you’ll probably pull out the classroom block set for experimentation, allow your students to use other materials they find too. Pull up the recycling bin and offer your students the menagerie of cardboard cereal boxes, plastic bottles, cans, and small plastic containers for demolition. Empty your stuffed animal shelf and have your students explore the difference between demolishing the plush toys versus the rigid blocks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eBut challenge them as well…\u003c\/em\u003e Give them specific targets to aim for (e.g. the bottom of the stack, the green block, the left side, etc.). Have them discuss how to adjust the wrecking ball string and the angle of the ball to accomplish these tasks. Give students a specific number of wall “items” to knock down (e.g. displace the top three blocks, knock over all of the blocks, etc.). Have your students discuss not only the adjustments needed for the wrecking ball string, but how ball speed and moving closer or father away will affect the number of blocks knocked over.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbove all, allow students to direct their own experiments. No suggestion (unless dangerous, of course) is too silly to try. By allowing your preschoolers to be “in charge” of the exploration, they’ll gain an appreciation for scientific discovery as well as learn how to ask questions that can later be investigated!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734090752025,"sku":"A3704","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Wrecking-Ball-Science.jpg?v=1522781613"},{"product_id":"halloween-skeletons-a3709","title":"Halloween Skeletons","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-125\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Foot-X-ray.jpg\" alt=\"x-ray foot\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: Claudio Calcagno\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThought skeletons were just a fun way to bring a little spooky Halloween \"cheer\" into the classroom? Jason Carr, lesson plan contributor to Education World ®, suggests broadening your scope and using this fun q-tip skeleton craft as a way to introduce your students to basic anatomy!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLesson Objectives\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLearn that our skeletal system is made up of many bones.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLearn that our bones have several important jobs in the body.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLearn and be able to identify major bones in the body.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCarr suggests starting off the unit with a brainstorming session where students help make a list of major bones in the body. He recommends keeping the bone names simple and at your students' level (e.g. thigh bone instead of femur, etc.). For the q-tip skeleton project, make sure students have been introduced to all of the following: skull, spine, ribs, arm bones, fingers, thigh bone, leg bone, foot bones.\n\n\u003cimg class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-115\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Q-Tip-Skeleton-Recipe-Card.jpg\" alt=\"q-tip pieces needed to create a skeleton\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003eProvide students with a piece of black construction paper, craft glue, a skull cutout, and a q-tip skeleton \"recipe card\". Invite students collect the correct number of q-tip parts needed to construct their bony friend. After students have completed their projects, discuss how bones play an important role in our bodies:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThey give our bodies structure.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThey protect our organs.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe provide muscles with a place to attach so we can move.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConsider having fun with these \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/teachmama.blogspot.com\/2010\/03\/abc-exercise-cards-hooray.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eABC Exercise Cards\u003c\/a\u003e from Amy at Teach Mama (each card is equipped with a letter and some type of movement to go along with each letter - e.g. \"A\" - \"Make circles with your \u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline\"\u003eA\u003c\/span\u003enkle\"). This fun activity will allow your preschoolers a chance for some active fun and demonstrate how bones are essential to movement! It might also be fun to explore actual x-ray films for a real look into our amazing bodies!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.eduref.org\/Virtual\/Lessons\/Science\/Anatomy\/ANA0008.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eQ-Tip Skeleton - An Educator's Reference Desk Lesson Plan\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734092029977,"sku":"A3709","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Foot-X-ray.jpg?v=1522781622"},{"product_id":"best-halloween-party-games-for-kids-a2245","title":"Best Halloween Party Games for Kids","description":"\u003cp\u003eWhile Halloween has officially come and gone, it's always nice to keep a folder of inspiration for next year's classroom celebration! Craft, snack food, decoration, and party favor ideas are easy to come by, but there seems to be a gap where party games are concerned. If you want the right mixture of fun and skill building, here are a few suggestions for a festive Halloween party!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePop Goes the Pumpkin\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this twist of the carnival favorite found at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eMartha Stewart\u003c\/a\u003e, students attempt to pop balloons full of candy and confetti!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/article\/pop-goes-the-pumpkin\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-full wp-image-2202\" title=\"Pop Goes the Pumpkin Game\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Pop-Goes-the-Pumpkin-Game.jpg\" alt=\"orange balloons displayed in the shape of a pumpkin\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: Martha Stewart Living\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWitch's Eye Relay\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith ping pong balls painted to resemble witch's eyes - like the ones found at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/craftysisters-nc.blogspot.com\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eCrafty Sisters\u003c\/a\u003e - have students race around obstacles in the classroom while trying to keep the 'eyes' on plastic spoons.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/craftysisters-nc.blogspot.com\/2010\/09\/eyeball-halloween-wreath.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-2201\" title=\"Ping Pong Ball Eyeballs\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Ping-Pong-Ball-Eyeballs.jpg\" alt=\"ping pong balls painted like eyeballs\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: Crafty Sisters | Candace\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePumpkin Face Race\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePrepare several jack-o-lantern face cutouts from Wonderfoam® sheets - like the ones found here at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.chicaandjo.com\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eChica and Jo\u003c\/a\u003e. Place Velcro dots or double-sided tape on the pumpkin and face pieces then, dividing students into teams and arming them with drinking straws, have teams race to create jack-o-lanterns using the straws to 'suck up' the pieces and place them on the pumpkin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.chicaandjo.com\/2009\/10\/15\/mix-and-match-jack-o-lantern-faces\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-2200\" title=\"Mix \u0026amp; Match Pumpkin Face Relay\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Mix-Match-Pumpkin-Face-Relay.jpg\" alt=\"pumpkin with foam face shapes pasted on it\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: Chica and Jo | Chica\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHalloween Can Toss\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHere's another carnival favorite found at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.bhg.com\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eBetter Homes \u0026amp; Gardens\u003c\/a\u003e. Students will have a blast tossing bean bags into the Halloween-themed cans.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.bhg.com\/holidays\/halloween\/parties\/halloween-party-games\/?page=2\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-2196\" title=\"Halloween Bean Bag Toss\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Halloween-Bean-Bag-Toss.jpg\" alt=\"cans decorated for halloween to use in a bean bag toss game\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: Better Homes \u0026amp; Gardens\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHalloween I-Spy Game\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStudents will have fun 'racing' to find each of the hidden items in these i-spy bottles designed by Marylea of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/pinkandgreenmama.blogspot.com\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ePink and Green Mama\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/pinkandgreenmama.blogspot.com\/2010\/10\/halloween-eye-spy-bottle.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-2198\" title=\"Halloween I-Spy Bottle\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Halloween-I-Spy-Bottle.jpg\" alt=\"plastic bottle filled with rice and Halloween objects for students to find\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: Pink and Green Mama | Marylea\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHalloween Bowling\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBy 'dressing up' simple plastic soda bottles like these at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/jennwa.blogspot.com\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eRamblings of a Crazy Woman\u003c\/a\u003e and providing a soft ball, your students will have hours of bowling fun!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/jennwa.blogspot.com\/2008\/10\/halloween-bottle-bowling-or-just-cute.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-2197\" title=\"Halloween Bowling\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Halloween-Bowling.jpg\" alt=\"soda bottles decorated to look like Halloween characters\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: Ramblings of a Crazy Woman | Jennifer\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCandy Corn Estimation\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMix in some math fun during your Halloween celebration with this carnival favorite from \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.bhg.com\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eBetter Homes \u0026amp; Gardens\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.bhg.com\/holidays\/halloween\/parties\/halloween-party-games\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-2194\" title=\"Candy Corn Estimation\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Candy-Corn-Estimation.jpg\" alt=\"large glass container filled with candy corn for students to practice estimating\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: Better Homes \u0026amp; Gardens\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDon't Eat A Jack-O-Lantern\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJamie at The Crafting Chicks designed this fun spin-off of Don't Eat Pete. Your students will have fun earning the sweet treats!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/thecraftingchicks.com\/2010\/10\/halloween-treat-bag-toppers-tags.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-2195\" title=\"Don't Eat A Jack-o-Lantern Game\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Dont-Eat-A-Jack-o-Lantern-Game.jpg\" alt=\"homemade Halloween game board with pumpkins\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: The Crafting Chicks | Jaime\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHave fun party planning for next year with these amazing Halloween games!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734093930521,"sku":"A2245","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Pop-Goes-the-Pumpkin-Game.jpg?v=1522781633"},{"product_id":"the-first-flight-a2901","title":"The First Flight","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/The-First-Flight-Wright-Brothers.jpg\" alt=\"The Wright Brothers\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: The Wright House\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn continuation of national aviation month and your kindergartner's recent discovery of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/ideas\/2900\/how-do-airplanes-fly\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ehow airplanes fly\u003c\/a\u003e, the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum recommends introducing your students to Orville and Wilbur Wright, the inventors of this spectacular flying machine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrville and Wilbur Wright\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Wright brothers first became interested in flight at the ages of seven and eleven when their father gifted them with a toy helicopter. They first dabbled in making model airplanes - starting small then graduating to larger crafts. Having experienced only minimal success in this venture, the brothers pursued several other endeavors until 1896 when other pioneers in aviation ignited their interest once again in designing a craft for manned fight. Going as far as to relocate for better flying conditions, Orville and Wilbur finally piloted the first successful airplane flight in 1908.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo better understand the duo's lives and achievements, read Andrew Woods' book, \u003cem\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline\"\u003eYoung Orville and Wilbur Wright: First to Fly\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e as a class, the use the Smithsonian's interactive airplane anatomy lesson to show students the Wright's first plane (design, parts, etc.) and how, after 100+ years, airplanes \u003cem\u003estill\u003c\/em\u003e make use of Orville and Wilbur's flight theory!\n\n\u003cstrong\u003eAirplane Science (and FUN!)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNow that your students have learned about the first planes, their various parts, and how these large crafts are able to stay in the air, have a little fun. Choose a simple paper airplane design, provide students with paper, and invite them to copy the craft. As recommended by Steve McCombs, a ProTeacher lesson plan contributor, create worksheets for recording flight distances, then head to the hallway for some flying fun!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTrial 1 - Fly paper airplanes without any extraneous variables\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTrial 2 - Fly paper airplanes with an extraneous variable (e.g. a paper clip on the front, etc.)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTrial 3 - Collect several paper airplane designs from the internet or print resources, presenting them to your students. Have them vote on which will fly the farthest, straightest, etc. then make several planes and head out to the hallway again!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBack in the classroom, analyze and graph the data from each trial to find the shortest, median, and longest flights, etc. in the class.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYour kindergartners are sure to have a blast with these interactive aviation lessons! ...Usually creating and flying paper airplanes in class is a 'punishable offense' - this lesson presents a perfect time to have fun with 'contraband' - something your students will enjoy in and of itself!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734094225433,"sku":"A2901","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/The-First-Flight-Wright-Brothers.jpg?v=1522781635"},{"product_id":"the-inuit-way-of-life-a3716","title":"The Inuit Way of Life","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\n    \u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/4951162783.jpg\" alt=\"Eskimo girl named Minnie\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto © 1906 \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.flickr.com\/people\/8337233@N06\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eUniversity of Washington Libraries Digital Collections\u003c\/a\u003e | \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/8337233@N06\/4951162783\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003emore info \u003c\/a\u003e (via: \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/wylio.com\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eWylio\u003c\/a\u003e)\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e{It's important for children to understand the history of our country - even before\u003cem\u003e it became a nation in 1776. November being \"American Indian Heritage Month\" makes it a great time to explore the various native peoples and cultures that could be found in America before the land was \"discovered\" and settled by easterners. This series of lessons attempts to introduce your preschoolers to the original Americans.}\n\n\u003ch2\u003eUnit Introduction\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHaving been granted the proper permissions, take your students on a trip to an \"unknown\" part of the school (i.e. the gym locker rooms, the teacher's lounge, the janitor's closet, etc.). Before opening the door, ask your students if they know what's behind it. Take a few answers and then unveil the mystery room. Explain to your students that, at one time, the world seemed just as big and \"unknown\" as the school seems at times. They will be surprised to find out that, just like they had no idea the mystery room in the school existed, many people didn't know that America existed (or the native peoples occupying it!)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBack in the classroom, find a globe and show students where Spain, Asia, and America are located. Introduce Columbus - his mission, his journey, and his discovery.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eProvide your students with a map of America and ask them where they think the Native Americans lived before Columbus arrived. Next, show them a map of the Native American Cultures\/Groups inhabiting the Americas. Discuss how every part of the Americas is highlighted – showing that native communities were spread throughout both continents.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eArmed with a piece of printer paper and graphic art tools, have your students draw an Indian. Discuss different stereotypes - clothing, houses, language, etc. (at their level of course) - explaining that not all Native Americans dressed or acted in these ways. Because of differences in environment and resources, there were notable differences between each cultural group and tribe. Let your students know that they will be learning about these very differences in the next unit.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eThe Inuit (Eskimos)\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe objective of this lesson is to teach your preschoolers about the Inuit way of life - where they live, the climate in their region, housing, how they dress (both regularly and ceremonially), what they eat, their customs, transportation, and everyday tools\/weapons.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eBasic Information\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat:\u003c\/strong\u003e Arctic (North)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHousing:\u003c\/strong\u003e Igloos or tents\/houses made from animal skins, wood, sod, or mud\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eClothing:\u003c\/strong\u003e Sealskin parkas in the summer, caribou skin parkas in the winter, and boots made of walrus hide\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFood:\u003c\/strong\u003e Expert fisherman and hunters - the Inuits survived on seal, walrus, caribou and other animals\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTools\/Transportation:\u003c\/strong\u003e Harpoons, kayaks, umiaks (open boats made of wood and skin), and dog sleds\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eLiterature \u0026amp; Songs\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.preschooleducation.com\/swinter.shtml\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eFive Little Eskimos\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e Song \u0026gt;\u0026gt; Consider designing finger puppets for a fun fingerplay.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eMama Do You Love Me?\u003c\/em\u003e by Barbara M. Joosse.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eThe Polar Bear Son: An Inuit Tale\u003c\/em\u003e by Lydia Dabcovich.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eDress Like An Eskimo Activity\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDiscuss with your students what the weather is like in the Arctic. Show them pictures of the clothing worn by the Inuits. To help them understand the \u003cem\u003emany\u003c\/em\u003e layers worn by this Native American tribe, take turns dressing students like Eskimos. Be sure to collect the following to put over student clothing:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBulky sweatshirt = Inuit \"inner\" coat.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSweatpants = Inuit \"inner\" pants.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSnow pants = Inuit \"outer\" pants.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSnow parka = Inuit \"outer\" coat.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLarge thermal socks = Inuit stockings.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSnow boots = Inuit \"mukluks\".\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLeather work gloves = Inuit mittens.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKnitted hat and fur hood\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGoggles\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt might also be fun to collect several Eskimo \"outfits\" then have a relay race - students are divided into teams, the first player on each team is helped into the outfit, completes a task (i.e. 'runs' to the end of the mat and back balancing a craft pom pom on a plastic spoon, etc.), races back to the finish line, transfers the Eskimo outfit to the next player in line who must complete the same task, and this process repeats until all team members have played. The team who does it the quickest, wins!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eInuit Sensory Table\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConsider filling your sensory table with Insta-Snow™ and Inuit-themed objects - plastic animals (seals, whales, caribou, dogs, etc.), boats, small Styrofoam blocks (for igloo building!), and other fun items! Your preschoolers will be delighted with the change - and amazed to find snow \u003cem\u003einside\u003c\/em\u003e, in \u003cem\u003eNovember!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\nFor more great lesson ideas, games, crafts, etc. be sure to check out \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/ideas\/2902\/american-indians-heritage-series-the-inuits\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ethis American Indians Heritage Series: The Inuits\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.native-languages.org\/inuktitut.htm\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eNative Languages of the Americas\u003c\/a\u003e is another a great resource for learning about Inuit heritage, traditions, and way of life!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734096158745,"sku":"A3716","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/4951162783.jpg?v=1522781646"},{"product_id":"homemade-candle-holders-a2250","title":"Homemade Candle Holders","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/mommyme-thewonderyears.blogspot.com\/2010\/11\/recycled-can-craft-hammered-candle.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-2224 \" title=\"Hammered Candle Holders\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Hammered-Candle-Holders.jpg\" alt=\"votive candle holders made of recycled cans\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: The Wonder Years\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile your students are sure to remember the wonderful Thanksgiving meal and playing with their cousins, many may overlook the preparation and hard work that their mothers, grandmothers, etc. put into making the holiday plans, meal, and decorations for their families to enjoy! This holiday season, remind your students to \"thank the hostess\" with this fun candle holder craft from Amy at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/mommyme-thewonderyears.blogspot.com\/2010\/11\/recycled-can-craft-hammered-candle.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eThe Wonder Years\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSupplies You'll Need\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRecycled cans\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSmall hammer\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNail (with a large head)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWinter gloves\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-1418-safety-goggles.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eSafety goggles\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTowel\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-102-markers.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eMarkers\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-69-paint.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eCraft paint \u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImportant Considerations\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003ePrepare the recycled cans as directed in Amy's full post.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003eInvite several adults to help during this craft. While students will likely be able to make holes independently, for safety purposes, it's best to have more pairs of eyes on hand!\n\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eHave students draw their desired designs on the can \u003c\/em\u003ebefore\u003cem\u003e making holes.\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003eConsider sponge painting the can with \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-1791-metallic-tempera-paint.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003emetallic paint\u003c\/a\u003e for an \"antique\" look.\n\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProvide students with one orange votive candle and several pieces of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-21902-design-paper-autumn-harvest-50-sht-8-12-x-11.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eharvest paper\u003c\/a\u003e or stationary. On Thanksgiving day, have students (without the knowledge of the hostess) pass out the stationary to family and friends, inviting them to write a note of thanks for the hostess. Encourage them to have the cards collected, folded, and placed inside the hammered candle holder before sitting down for the meal, presenting the gift as the whole family sits down.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is wonderful exercise to teach your students to appreciate the people in their lives who do so much for them!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/mommyme-thewonderyears.blogspot.com\/2010\/11\/recycled-can-craft-hammered-candle.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eThe Wonder Years: A Recycled Can Craft: Hammered Candle Holders\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734096650265,"sku":"A2250","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Hammered-Candle-Holders.jpg?v=1522781650"},{"product_id":"feed-the-turkeys-math-counting-mat-a3317","title":"Feed the Turkeys Math Counting Mat","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-396 \" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Feed-The-Turkeys-Math-Mat-e1290628819710.jpg\" alt=\"turkey worksheet\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: www.makinglearningfun.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis festive turkey-themed math mat designed by Jo at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.makinglearningfun.com\/themepages\/TurkeyMathMat.htm\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eMaking Learning Fun\u003c\/a\u003e makes a great addition to any preschool classroom this harvest\/Thanksgiving season! Using the mat is simple enough:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eProvide students with a laminated mat, die, and cup of dried corn kernels. Have students roll the die then \"feed\" the turkey the correct number of kernels. Students continue until they've fed all the turkeys.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot only do students get good counting practice with this exercise, they develop fine motor skills as they grasp individual kernels of corn and transfer them from cup to mat!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOther Applications\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable id=\"wp-table-reloaded-id-23-no-1\" class=\"wp-table-reloaded wp-table-reloaded-id-23\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"row-1\"\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"column-1\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Preschool-Printables-Table-12.jpg\" alt=\"baby block 1\" title=\"Preschool Printables Table 1\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-84\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"column-2\"\u003eUsing a die only allows students to practice numbers one through six. Consider laminating the mats, then writing random numbers on each turkey with a dry erase marker. This will strengthen number recognition and allow students to practice counting to higher numbers as they \"feed\" the turkeys.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"row-2\"\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"column-1\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Preschool-Printables-Table-22.jpg\" alt=\"baby block 2\" title=\"Preschool Printables Table 2\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-85\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"column-2\"\u003eLaminate the worksheet, then cut the images apart, creating individual \"turkey cards\". Write random numbers on each turkey with a dry erase marker, providing a stack of numbered turkey cards to each student. [NOTE: This exercise is best completed one-on-one or in a small group.] Place a specific number of corn kernels into a shallow cup and place in front of the student. After counting the kernels, have the student sift through their stack of numbered turkey cards and select the corresponding number. Once they've made the correct match, repeat the process with a different number of kernels.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"row-3\"\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"column-1\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Preschool-Printables-Table-32.jpg\" alt=\"baby block 3\" title=\"Preschool Printables Table 3\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-86\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"column-2\"\u003eAdd a gross motor component to the game by enlarging the worksheet images, cutting them apart, and gluing them to recycled cans. Carefully script a number onto each turkey, line them up on a table, and have students take turns \"feeding\" the turkeys by tossing craft pom pons into the cans. Whether successful or not, students will enjoy this adapted carnival game! [NOTE: If you find that tossing the pom pons is too hard, have students drop them into the cans. They'll have just as much fun!]\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever you decide to use the worksheet, your students are sure to have fun! Be sure to visit Making Learning Fun for the download and many more great learning aids!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHappy Counting!\n\u003cimg class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-25\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Blog-Signature1.jpg\" alt=\"signature\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734096846873,"sku":"A3317","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Feed-The-Turkeys-Math-Mat-e1290628819710.jpg?v=1522781651"},{"product_id":"elf-bowling-a2254","title":"Elf Bowling!","description":"\u003cp\u003eWith winter (and snow!) on its way, on those days when playing outside isn't possible, it's nice to have a \"back-up list\" of activities and games that can be hauled out when your students get antsy and need to get some of their \"wiggles\" out! Here's a fun elf bowling game designed by Ellen at The Long Thread!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eA few alternatives...\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-2240\" title=\"Plastic Candy Canes\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Plastic-Candy-Canes.jpg\" alt=\"\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003eEllen's design calls for a 36\" dowel rod (1\" wide) and the use of a saw and miter box. If you don't feel comfortable using tools (or don't like the idea of using wooden pins and a wooden ball), you could also make this craft with several plastic candy cane shaped candy holders! Just take the curved lid off the top - fill the container with sugar or another dense (but not too heavy!) material - and seal it back up with colored electrical or duct tape! Then, instead of using a wooden craft ball, you could use a plastic or rubber ball for the activity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlso, if sewing the elves doesn't sound quite up your alley, consider creating the bowling pin characters from \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-17870-wonderfoam-sheets-12-x-18.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eWonderfoam® sheets\u003c\/a\u003e. Using this \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.craftelf.com\/Craft_elf_Christmas_Elf_magnet.htm\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eCraft Elf\u003c\/a\u003e magnet craft as a guide, cut and assemble your elf cutouts, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-248-glue-adhesives.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003egluing\u003c\/a\u003e them onto your plastic candy containers or dowel rod. You might also consider adding other characters - Frosty, Santa Claus, Rudolph, Mrs. Claus, a Christmas tree, or any other Christmas icons. These bowling pins are super simple, still give a homemade feel, and best of all (for those of us who \u003cem\u003earen't\u003c\/em\u003e Martha Stewart), don't require a needle and thread!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith these few adjustments, you'll come away with a fun winter game that your students will love - and a little less work along the way!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/thelongthread.com\/?p=1604\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ethelongthread.com » Elf Skittles\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734097240089,"sku":"A2254","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Plastic-Candy-Canes.jpg?v=1522781653"},{"product_id":"christmas-themed-movement-cards-a3327","title":"Christmas Themed Movement Cards","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-468 \" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/ISCA-Christmas-Movement-Cards-e1292532902702.jpg\" alt=\"Christmas themed cards with various action descriptions\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: etadventures.blogspot.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEvery preschool teacher loves (and dreads!) this time of year because, as Christmas nears and students begin to think about presents, and treats, and the coming break from school, they often get antsy! (And let's be honest, it's not always just the \u003cem\u003ekids\u003c\/em\u003e that get restless!)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe found these fantastic movement cards at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/etadventures.blogspot.com\/2009\/12\/christmas-themed-activities-to-get-you.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eInspiration Surrounds Creativity Abounds\u003c\/a\u003e and thought we'd share them with you as a way to help your preschoolers \"get their wiggles out\"! Each card is unique, featuring fun clip art images and a corresponding movement for you students to try. You'll have them all giggling as they try to mimic Santa placing gifts under the tree or twist their bodies into the shape of a candy cane!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eElise, mother and creator of these (and many other!) ingenious activities, provides ten different cards and movements. Use them one at a time as a fun transition between activities or use them all at once to start the class period (or when you all just need a break!). As your students get the hang of the concept, invite them to volunteer their own suggestions - encourage individual movement as well as group movement (i.e. \"Can you and several of your friends: work together to twist your bodies into the shape of present?\", etc.).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlso, if you run out of \"Christmas\" movements, consider adding in \"winter\" movements:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eImagine you are: sledding down a very steep (and bumpy!) hill.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eImagine you are: making and drinking a cup of warm cocoa. \u0026lt;\u0026lt; This could be a fun one because it adds in the concept of \u003cem\u003esequencing\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eImagine you are: building snow forts. \u0026lt;\u0026lt; Surprise your students by starting an impromptu \"snowball fight\", drawing \"battle lines\", and making it a group movement.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eImagine you are: dressing in your snow gear to go outside and play.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eImagine you are: a snowman (who can't move) and there's a bunny headed your way with his eye on your carrot nose!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe list could be endless - and the funnier the better! This activity will spark your preschoolers' playful side, get their imaginations moving, and help them get some of their energies out so they can focus during class!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHappy Moving!\n\u003cimg class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-25\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Blog-Signature1.jpg\" alt=\"signature\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734099861529,"sku":"A3327","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/ISCA-Christmas-Movement-Cards-e1292532902702.jpg?v=1522781669"},{"product_id":"we-re-going-on-an-archeological-dig-a2909","title":"We’re Going On An Archeological Dig","description":"\u003cfigure\u003e\n    \u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/4109922972.jpg\" alt=\"Treasure Chest\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003e\n\t\tphoto © 2009 \n        \u003ca title=\"click to visit the Flickr profile page for Tom Praison\" href=\"http:\/\/www.flickr.com\/people\/40201205@N06\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eTom Praison\u003c\/a\u003e | \n        \u003ca title=\"get more information about the photo 'Treasure Chest'\" href=\"http:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/40201205@N06\/4109922972\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003emore info\u003c\/a\u003e\n\t\t(via: \u003ca title=\"free pictures\" href=\"http:\/\/wylio.com\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eWylio\u003c\/a\u003e)\n\t\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLooking for a fun, hands on science lesson for your kindergartners? Try going on an archeological dig! Here are two fun adventures your students are sure to love!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIce Treasure\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhether you're trying to cool off during the warm summer months or just attempting to bring a little of \"winter\" indoors, digging for ice treasure is a blast! Amy Anderson of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/lets-explore.net\/blog\/2008\/05\/ice-treasures\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eLet's Explore\u003c\/a\u003e offers a great tutorial on creating individual ice stations for excavation - including freezing tips, container suggestions, and much more! Consider choosing a theme or topic for your dig and, armed with treasure-excavating tools (i.e. salt, spray bottles \u0026amp; droppers with warm water, toothbrushes, etc.), let your students loose to uncover and discover!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTreasure in the Dirt\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDirt and treasure are two of every child's favorite things! Whether indoors or outdoors, summer or winter, your students are sure to have a blast digging for buried treasure - just make sure you have the proper cleaning supplies on hand for post-excavation clean-up! Abbie, creator of the blog \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/greeningsamandavery.typepad.com\/greening-sam-and-avery\/2010\/09\/day-91-digging-fun.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eGreening Sam and Avery\u003c\/a\u003e, shares her experiences in using flower pots and potting soil for this wonderful sensory (scientific!) activity. Again, choose a theme for your archeological dig, provide the proper tools (i.e. scoops, shovels, spoons, rakes, etc.), and let the fun begin!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStudent Roles\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile these exercises can be used for undirected exploration, it can also be fun to take advantage of the opportunity for directed learning - using \"official\" terminology and teamwork. Once the \"dig sites\" have been prepared (whether ice or dirt), divide students into teams of three and assign each team a formal excavation location as well as individual roles.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRecorder. Provide this student with a picture checklist of all the items rumored to be hidden at their excavation site. As the team uncovers each object, have the team recorder check it off their list.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTool Specialist. Provide this student with a picture checklist of the various tools their team will be given to use in the excavation of their dig site. Have the tool specialist take inventory of the tools when they reach their assigned site and again after the dig to make sure every tool is accounted for and in its proper place.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTreasure Preserver. Provide this student with sample bags and picture labels that match the items on the recorder's picture checklist. As the team unearths each piece of treasure, have the treasure preserver place the item in a bag and tape on the proper picture label for further examination after the dig.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlong with these \"official\" roles, \u003cem\u003eall\u003c\/em\u003e team members will help to unearth the treasure! After the dig, have each team bring their \"samples\" back to the classroom for discussion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDiscussion points you might consider...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHave students describe the digging conditions (i.e. was the soil easy to sift through or was it hard and compacted, did it get easier to unearth the ice treasure as time went along or stay about the same, etc.)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHave students discuss the tools used (i.e. were some more effective than others, is there a tool that was not made available that would have done the job better, etc.)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHave students discuss the treasure found (i.e. did the transparent quality of the ice make it easier to find the objects, did the size of the object make it easier\/harder to find, etc.)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhether excavating ice or dirt, your students are sure to have a blast with this exercise! Not only that, they'll strengthen counting skills, learn how to make observations and keep accurate records, practice labeling, learn to work with others, build problem solving skills, and much more!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734100353049,"sku":"A2909","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/4109922972.jpg?v=1522781672"},{"product_id":"more-dental-health-lessons-a3744","title":"More Dental Health Lessons","description":"\u003cfigure\u003e\n    \u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/5284089639.jpg\" alt=\"December 3, 2010\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003e\n\t\tphoto © 2010 \n        \u003ca title=\"click to visit the Flickr profile page for Mike Willis\" href=\"http:\/\/www.flickr.com\/people\/67248612@N00\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eMike Willis\u003c\/a\u003e | \n        \u003ca title=\"get more information about the photo 'December 3, 2010'\" href=\"http:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/67248612@N00\/5284089639\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003emore info\u003c\/a\u003e\n\t\t(via: \u003ca title=\"free pictures\" href=\"http:\/\/wylio.com\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eWylio\u003c\/a\u003e)\n\t\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you still don't have enough “toothy” activities to close out children's dental health month, here are a few more of our favorites from Sarah at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.childcarelounge.com\/general-themes\/dental-tooth.php\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eChild Care Lounge\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eToothbrush Art\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProvide students with a tooth cutout, a toothbrush, and some toothpaste (or paint) and have them explore painting a different way. Invite them to try making unique texture prints with their brushes and discuss how painting with toothpaste (a thicker, gel-like substance) differs from regular paint.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eConsiderations:\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFor a messy variation, thin out the toothpaste or paint and invite students to “splatter paint” by running their fingers over the bristles of a toothbrush that's aimed at the cutout.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePurchase various 'types' of toothbrushes (i.e. different bristle strengths, designs, etc.) for creating unique designs that can later be compared. For example, a softer brush may fan out more to create a feathered look, while harder bristles will create more rigid, wire-like marks. Toothbrushes that have gum cleaners, cross section brushes, deep clean tips, etc. will provide a menagerie of interesting markings.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGross Motor Toothbrush Game\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSarah suggests testing students' gross motor skills with a simple game. Collect several empty water bottles, pour several inches of sand in the bottom of each to weigh them down, and set them up like bowling pins. Tape off a line two feet from the bottles, inviting your students to drop a toothbrush into the opening of each bottle while keeping their feet behind the line and only bending at the waist. [NOTE: Arms may be extended to reach above the bottles, but should go no lower than waist high.] Another option for the game, as recommended by Sarah, is to have students lean over the back of a chair when dropping the toothbrushes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eToothpaste Math\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHave your students vote of their dental health favorites\/habits:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFavorite toothpaste flavor – bubble gum, cotton candy, or mint?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFavorite color toothbrush – pink, red, blue, or green?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eI squeeze the toothpaste tube – in the middle or at the end?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCreate graphs of these questions and discuss the results as a class.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734103990297,"sku":"A3744","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/5284089639.jpg?v=1522781694"},{"product_id":"lacing-ordering-sight-words-amp-more-dental-health-month-printables-a3341","title":"Lacing, Ordering, Sight Words \u0026 More - Dental Health Month Printables","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-686 \" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Tooth-Lacing-Card.jpg\" alt=\"printable tooth lacing card dental health month activity\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: www.earlylearningactivities.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe found these dental health activities from Childcare Land via Mrs. Kilburn's Kiddos and think they'd be perfect for carrying the tooth hygiene theme across subjects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSimple Sight Words Flip Book\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStudents will love that this flip book has \"layers\". Each page features tooth flaps that, when lifted, reveal common {simple!} sight words beneath. Read the book as a class, use the flip books for small group instruction,\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTooth Lacing Card\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLovett's tooth lacing card makes a great addition to your fine motor center. Here are a few ways to use it:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePrint the worksheet onto colorful card stock, laminate it, then use a paper punch to create holes around the outer edge. Place the cutout in a clear tub with several types of string - yarn, thin ribbon, cord, etc.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePrint the worksheet onto card stock and cut out, creating a traceable template. Trace the tooth shape onto colorful foam sheets and cut it out, using a paper punch to create holes around the outer edges. Place the foam lacing cards in a basket with several types of string.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePrint the worksheet onto colorful card stock, laminate it, then use a paper punch to create holes around the outer edge. Attach the cutout to piece of foam, placing it in a basket with golf tees and a small wooden hammer, inviting students to tap tees into place.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePrint the worksheet onto colorful card stock, laminate it, and attach the cutout to a piece of foam. Place the cutout in a clear tub with a shallow dish of tacks, inviting students to practice pushing pins through the circles around the edges.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Teeth Number Cards\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou can never have too many sets of number cards. Here are some great activities to try using Lovett's teeth number cards:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHave students build number recognition, counting, and ordering skills by placing the number cards in order.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSpread the number cards out on the floor, call out a number, and have students take turns trying to hit the right number card with a bean bag.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHide the cards around the room and invite your students to go on a counting\/number scavenger hunt.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eProvide students with clothespins {or another manipulative}, inviting them to clip or place the appropriate number of clothespins\/counters on the number cards.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHappy \"Toothy\" Learning!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eResources:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/mrskilburnkiddos.wordpress.com\/thematic-units\/dental-health\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eDental Health | Mrs. Kilburn's Kiddos\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.earlylearningactivities.com\/PDF\/tooth2swflapbook.pdf\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eTooth Two Letter Sight Word Book\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.earlylearningactivities.com\/PDF\/toothlacingcard.pdf\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eTooth Lacing Card\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.earlylearningactivities.com\/PDF\/teethnumbersequence.pdf\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eTooth Number Sequencing\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734104055833,"sku":"A3341","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Tooth-Lacing-Card.jpg?v=1522781694"},{"product_id":"weathertime-pageantry-exploring-weather-a3755","title":"Weathertime Pageantry - Exploring Weather","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-651 \" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Thunderstorm-b.jpg\" alt=\"painting a thunderstorm preschool weather unit\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: fairydustteaching.blogspot.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpicing up your weather unit with hands-on races and activities is great and so is adding in some 'weathertime pageantry'! We found some awesome crafts and parade ideas from Sally at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/fairydustteaching.blogspot.com\/2011\/03\/weather-parade.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eFairy Dust Teaching\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePageant Sticks\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat's a parade without pageant sticks? Sally had her students brainstorm the types of weather they encountered - sunny, cloudy, rainy, foggy, snowy, cold, etc. - and invited them to illustrate the different types using paint and poster board. They then mounted their dried creations onto dowel rods\/flag sticks adding colorful streamers to the back and edges for extra color, visual interest, and movement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeathertime Pageantry\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are several ways to use the pageant sticks. You can use them like Sally's class did, observing the morning weather, picking the correct stick and singing the appropriate verse of their weather song. [Be sure to visit the full post for the song lyrics. It's a great selection because the words are simple and easy to remember.] You might also consider singing the entire song, providing each child with a pageant stick, and dance around the classroom, pretending to be each type of weather as you sing the appropriate verse.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe love when lessons involve a hands-on approach {and provide a chance for your students to get their wiggles out while learning!}. Be sure to visit Sally's full post for more tips and ideas!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734106185753,"sku":"A3755","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Thunderstorm-b.jpg?v=1522781708"},{"product_id":"giddy-up-learning-about-the-pony-express-a2940","title":"Giddy-Up! Learning About the Pony Express","description":"\u003cfigure\u003e\n    \u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/4068594446.jpg\" alt=\"Our Little Cowboy\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003e\n\t\tphoto © 2009 \n        \u003ca title=\"click to visit the Flickr profile page for Scott Schopieray\" href=\"http:\/\/www.flickr.com\/people\/schopie1\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eScott Schopieray\u003c\/a\u003e | \n        \u003ca title=\"get more information about the photo 'Our Little Cowboy'\" href=\"http:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/53346660@N00\/4068594446\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003emore info\u003c\/a\u003e\n\t\t(via: \u003ca title=\"free pictures\" href=\"http:\/\/wylio.com\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eWylio\u003c\/a\u003e)\n\t\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDid you know that the Pony Express was established on April 3rd, 1860? If you're looking for a fun 'mini-unit' to do with your kinders {or should we say, cowboys and cowgirls!}, that will teach them about the 'wild west' and the first mail system in the U.S., check out this lesson plan from Andrea J. Spillett, California kindergarten teacher and lesson plan contributor\/teacher blogger for \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www2.scholastic.com\/browse\/unitplan.jsp?id=231\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eScholastic Teachers\u003c\/a\u003e. Your kiddos are sure to have a blast!\n\u003cstrong\u003e\nLearning About the West\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDiscuss with your students what it was like to live in the 'wild west'. Here are some things to consider including:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA geography lesson, showing your kinders the region on a map.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePictures of a traditional western town.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCompare\/contrast education, technology, medicine, clothing, etc.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDescribe a day in the life of a kindergartner\/child in the wild west.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWestern Law Enforcement\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpillett likes to do a lesson on 'law enforcement' in the west - discussing civil responsibility, the importance of order and safety, and, of course, WANTED posters! After reading \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Legend Of Lightning Larry\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e by Aaron Shepard, she invites her students to come up with actions {silly or serious} that might be cause for them, or a classmate, to be \"wanted\" in the classroom (i.e. turning all the name plates upside down, walking backwards through the hallways, running in class, etc.). The children then make WANTED posters in true western style!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePatterning Exercises\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTaking from the traditional western dancing style, Spillett invites her students to explore a new style of movement - finding patterns in the dance steps.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWith floor color cards, students are invited to finish the pattern taped to the floor, then hop from card to card reciting the pattern (i.e. red\/green\/red\/green or yellow\/red\/red\/yellow\/red\/red, etc.)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTo capture traditional western clothing styles, students make a bandana or bolero, incorporating patterning through fun bead embellishments.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWestern Songs\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\"Clementine\"\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\"Oh, Susanna\"\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\"Home On The Range\"\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\"She'll Be Comin' Round The Mountain!\"\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Pony Express\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDiscuss today's mail system {and the other ways we communicate with friends and family}. Explain to your students that, in the wild west, if your grandma wanted to send you a birthday card, it would travel by horse. In your discussion of the Pony Express, consider:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHaving your students complete an ordering\/problem solving activity, putting the following items in order by how long it would take a letter to travel from your city to another part of the country (from shortest to longest) - horse, rail, car, jet, etc. Discuss the answers; your students are sure to be amazed!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePractice addressing envelopes, stamping them {with fun stickers!}, and 'delivering' them to classmates.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConstruct a map of the school, creating a 'mail route' of the fastest way to deliver mail to other classes.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor more lesson ideas, extensions, and 'wild west' fun, be sure to visit Spillett's full post!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734107758617,"sku":"A2940","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/4068594446.jpg?v=1522781717"},{"product_id":"the-wonderful-messy-world-of-splat-painting-a2314","title":"The Wonderful - Messy! - World of Splat Painting!","description":"\n\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-full wp-image-2688  \" title=\"DSC_0078-1024x680\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/DSC_0078.jpg\" alt=\"Preschool and Kindergarten Outdoor Painting Activity\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: tinkerlab.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSatisfy your child's\/student's need for outdoor play and messy fun with this fabulous painting activity from Rachelle at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/tinkerlab.com\/2011\/05\/cardboard-box-splat-printing\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eTinkerLab\u003c\/a\u003e! Your kiddos will practice measuring as they help you funnel rice {or sand, dried beans, etc.} into colorful balloons, build fine motor skills as they swirl and dip the balloons into the colored paint {by matching the color of the balloon to the paint, you'll also help younger learners strengthen color recognition!}, and develop gross motor skills as they aim and drop the balloons onto their canvas! If you've got the outdoor space, you won't want to miss out on this fun painting experience this spring\/summer!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSplat Painting Variations\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse a small step-ladder {and lots of safety precautions} to drop the balloons from different heights. Compare the difference in splatter.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFill the balloons with different materials and compare splatter patterns.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTry the \"yo-yo\" effect, tying the balloons to a piece of elastic and exploring the new splatter patterns.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eProvide various methods of splatter painting - dip and throw painted paper towels, place a tennis ball into the leg of a pair of nylons for a yo-yo\/bounce effect, cover fly swatters with loads of paint and smack the paper, fill balloons with watered down paint and throw at a target - the possibilities truly are endless {if you're willing to get a little messy!}.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSplat \u003cem\u003ePrinting\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe also love the printing extension from TinkerLab. By placing pieces of paper over your wet splat paintings, you get wonderfully colorful\u003cem\u003e prints\u003c\/em\u003e that can be used for other crafts or displayed as individual pieces of artwork!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eStart planning your own splat painting\/printing adventure by checking out the colorful photos and various splat painting links Rachelle provides at TinkerLab!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734111395865,"sku":"A2314","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/DSC_0078.jpg?v=1522781737"},{"product_id":"making-reading-fun-word-play-a2961","title":"Making Reading Fun - Word Play!","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-full wp-image-862\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/IMG_8795_thumb1.jpg\" alt=\"Reading Literacy Kindergarten Lesson Plan\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: 1plus1plus1equals1.blogspot.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe agree wholeheartedly with Carisa of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/1plus1plus1equals1.blogspot.com\/2011\/05\/word-play-learning-to-read-is-fun.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003e1+1+1=1\u003c\/a\u003e, \"learning to read doesn’t always involve a book or a piece of paper\"! If you're looking for hands-on word play activities Carisa offers a fantastic list of ideas {that she continues to add to!} to help foster in your kinders a love of learning and reading! You'll have to visit her blog for the full post, but we thought we'd highlight a few of our favorites!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWriting with Manipulatives.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e A perfect 'quiet' afternoon activity, this exercise focuses on fine motor skills as well as sight word review. After calling out a word or rolling a sight word die, invite your kiddos to write the word with small manipulatives {beads, mini erasers, floral beads\/jewels...the possibilities are endless!}.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThrow \u0026amp; Read. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003eStrengthening gross motor skills and sight word recognition, this activity works great as an outdoor learning activity or on a rainy afternoon when your kiddos have the wiggles. On their turn, students attempt to catch then quickly drop the sight word die, calling out the word it lands on. Consider having students stand in a circle tossing the die around\/across until each child has had a turn.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eBe sure to check out the rest of Carisa's activities and the links to other website\/blog ideas at the bottom of the post. While books, worksheets, and pencils have their place, your kiddos are sure to enjoy these fun reading exercises!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734111985689,"sku":"A2961","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/IMG_8795_thumb1.jpg?v=1522781741"},{"product_id":"cute-outdoor-crafts-before-you-pack-up-school-for-the-summer-a2322","title":"Cute Outdoor Crafts - Before You Pack Up School for the Summer!","description":"\u003cp\u003eRan across this post from \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/roots-of-simplicity.blogspot.com\/2011\/05\/summer-craft-ideas-to-do-outside.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eRoots of Simplicity\u003c\/a\u003e and had to share some of the inspiring outside craft ideas for you to consider using as the school year comes to a close. {Specifically for those times when you, \u003cem\u003eand\u003c\/em\u003e your students, just need a break from the stagnant classroom air and are craving blue skies, warm spring breezes, and the glorious feel of the sun on your skin!} Here are our favorite features!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-2743\" title=\"spider-web-lacing\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/spider-web-lacing.jpg\" alt=\"Preschool Outdoor Spider Craft\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: roots-of-simplicity.blogspot.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003eTest your kiddos fine motor skills with this cutesy web weaving craft - perfect for use during a spring insect unit or when paired with the classic Carle literature selection, \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Very Busy Spider\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-2745\" title=\"sandpaper-castles\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/sandpaper-castles.jpg\" alt=\"Summer Outdoor Ocean Craft for Kids\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: roots-of-simplicity.blogspot.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003ePining for the beach? Provide your students with a unique sensory, sand castle building experience - using actual sandpaper! Follow this craft with a journal prompt {i.e. \"My favorite summer vacation is...\", \"My favorite thing to do at the beach is...\", \"What I'm looking forward to this summer.\", etc} as you lounge amidst your castles and let the grass tickle your toes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-2744\" title=\"ribbon-ring-toss\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/ribbon-ring-toss.jpg\" alt=\"Outdoor Gross Motor Game Craft for Kids\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: roots-of-simplicity.blogspot.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003eNeed to get the wiggles out? Have your students help you make this colorful yard game that will have them strengthening gross motor skills, brushing up on social skills as they interact with classmates, and using up some of their restless energies before returning to the classroom!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eBe sure to visit the full post at Roots of Simplicity for these other great outdoor craft\/game ideas!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734112837657,"sku":"A2322","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/spider-web-lacing.jpg?v=1522781746"},{"product_id":"lions-tigers-amp-bearsoh-my-learning-about-animals-a2967","title":"Lions, Tigers, \u0026amp; Bears...OH MY! - Learning About Animals","description":"\u003cfigure\u003e\n    \u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/4872363641.jpg\" alt=\"Zoo Parc Beauval\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003e\n\t\tphoto © 2010 \n        \u003ca title=\"click to visit the Flickr profile page for JoyTek\" href=\"http:\/\/www.flickr.com\/people\/joytek\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eJoyTek\u003c\/a\u003e | \n        \u003ca title=\"get more information about the photo 'Zoo Parc Beauval'\" href=\"http:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/37534412@N06\/4872363641\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003emore info\u003c\/a\u003e\n\t\t(via: \u003ca title=\"free pictures\" href=\"http:\/\/wylio.com\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eWylio\u003c\/a\u003e)\n\t\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is fascinating to learn about all the different types of animals that populate our Earth. As you head into the last few weeks before summer, consider doing a mini {super fun!} animal unit that is partially 'directed' and partially student-led...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Weird, Kooky, \u0026amp; Just Plain Strange...\u003c\/strong\u003e Have your kinders {with the help of an older sibling or parent} research the strangest animal they can think of. Finding a picture and some basic facts, have students present their findings to the class, then vote on which animal is the weirdest!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChaos at the Zoo.\u003c\/strong\u003e Cut and paste the pictures of well-known animals onto cards, creating two of each animal card. Fold them in half, place them in a hat or bucket, and have students take turns drawing a card. Relay to them that, while the zookeeper was away, an ornery monkey escaped from his cage and let all the zoo animals out. To help out the stressed zookeeper, invite students to find the classmate who drew the same animal. The challenge - they have to rely on sound alone. When you say go, invite students to make their animal sound and try to find, amidst the chaos, the person making the same sound as them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow Fast Are They?\u003c\/strong\u003e Divide students into groups, providing each group with a set of animal cards {each card containing a picture of the animal and the animal's name}. Invite your kiddos to consider how fast each of the animals can move, working to order the cards from fastest to slowest. Having already researched each animals speed, reconvene as a class to check their work. Your students are sure to be amazed at the results! As an extension, consider having your own zoo animal races - students choose which animal they want to be then hop, slither, lope, gallop, etc. their way to the finish line. Compare the results of these races to the actual data collected on animal speed. Were the results similar?\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734114443289,"sku":"A2967","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/4872363641.jpg?v=1522781756"},{"product_id":"create-your-own-storywalk-experience-a3787","title":"Create Your Own \"Storywalk\" Experience","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/3787-children-walking.jpg\" alt=\"Children Walking\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCreated by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, Vermont, in collaboration with the Kellogg-Hubbard Library and the Vermont Bicycle and Pedestrian Coalition, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/kellogghubbard.org\/storywalk.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eThe Storywalk Project™\u003c\/a\u003e attempts to incorporate both literacy and exercise! While there may be one in your area {be sure to check the website to find out!}, you may just have to create your \u003cem\u003eown\u003c\/em\u003e storywalk experience. Here's how...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFind an old copy of your kiddos favorite book.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSeparate the pages, mounting each one onto a piece of colored construction paper then laminate them or place them into plastic document protectors.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlan a 'hiking route' around your playground and schoolyard, then post the pages of the book at strategic check points on the route.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBasking in the sunshine and getting some much needed exercise, take your kiddos on a storywalk - stopping at each check point to find out what happens next in the story!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis is a fantastic idea and one we're sure your preschoolers will love! Be sure to visit The Storywalk Project™ website -who knows, you just might be instrumental in starting a new tradition for families in the community this summer!\n\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734115524633,"sku":"A3787","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/3787-children-walking.jpg?v=1522781763"},{"product_id":"ocean-commotion-fun-beach-themed-activities-a2974","title":"Ocean Commotion - Fun Beach-Themed Activities!","description":"\u003cp\u003eWe love the idea of an end-of-the-year ocean unit and found some fantastic activities at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.angelfire.com\/la\/kinderthemes\/ocean.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eMrs. Ayers' KinderThemes\u003c\/a\u003e! Here are a few of our favorites, in no particular order...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-946\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Fish-Activity.jpg\" alt=\"Fish Sorting Kindergarten Lesson Plan\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFish Sorting \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince it's the end of the year and it's likely your students have had quite a bit of exposure to different methods of classification, provide your kiddos with a sorting exercise that offers a bit of a challenge. Given a stack of construction paper fish manipulatives, invite your kinders to come up with, on their own, three different ways to sort the cards {instead of leading them through the activity}. They might choose to group the fish by size, by color, by type, by visible characteristics {i.e. stripes v. no stripes}, etc. Provide small fish bowls with which students can complete each sorting activity. Be sure to have students record the ways in which they classified the manipulatives, as well as the number of fish in each category, then discuss the different ideas and results as a class.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOcean Movement\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFind a CD of ocean sounds {i.e. waves, gulls, etc.}. As you play the track, invite your kiddos to imagine they're at the beach, pretending to swim, jump over waves, sway like seaweed\/kelp, surf, and even move like some of the sea creatures they encounter - crabs, sea slugs, fish, octopi, etc. This is a fantastic way to foster imaginative pretend play, build gross motor control, and even get some of the \"end-of-school wiggles\" out!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSeawater Science\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHave your students discover the difference in density between fresh water and salt water by showing what happens to a raw egg when placed in each liquid - the egg immediately sinks when put into the cup of water, but floats when placed in the salt water solution. Invite your students to transfer this concept to the real world, discussing what this might mean for a swimmer, etc.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eThese are just a few of the fantastic activities Mrs. Ayers has compiled at her site. Be sure to visit and get to planning \u003c\/em\u003eyour\u003cem\u003e end-of-the-year ocean unit - if not this year, for next year!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734116179993,"sku":"A2974","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Fish-Activity.jpg?v=1522781767"},{"product_id":"gone-fishin-fishy-activities-for-preschool-a3796","title":"Gone Fishin' - Fishy Activities for Preschool","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-1030\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/fishing-rod-painting.jpg\" alt=\"Pond or Ocean Kids Craft Preschool Lesson\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: strongstart.blogspot.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe loved these 'fishy' activities from Maureen at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/strongstart.blogspot.com\/2011\/06\/gone-fishing.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eStrongStart\u003c\/a\u003e and had to share! They'd go 'swimmingly' with a summer pond or ocean unit...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePainting with Fishing Poles\u003c\/strong\u003e\n{pictured at right}\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat a fantastic way to improve both fine and gross motor skills - and, of course, explore a \u003cem\u003eunique\u003c\/em\u003e method of painting. Suit up your kiddos in art smocks, tie a rubber or plastic ocean creature to the string of a fishing pole, and get ready for some slippery, swishy painting! [NOTE: Consider shortening the string on the 'painting poles' so little arms don't get so tired holding the fishing rod above their heads\/your students have more control, or have them stand to create.]\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMini Magnet Fishing\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMaureen used scraps of colorful bulletin board borders to create mini fishing ponds filled with fun {magnetic} sea creatures. Have your kiddos fish for pure enjoyment {and to hone fine\/gross motor skills} or include a literacy or math component for continued learning. For example...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePractice Spelling Sight Words. Create letter labels from round white stickers, placing one onto each sea creature, then set out a stack of sight word cards. Invite your kiddos to 'fish for sight words' by choosing a sight word card, then checking the letters on their 'catch', either placing it next to the letter on the card if it matches or tossing it back if it doesn't.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePractice Matching Upper \u0026amp; Lower Case Letters. Script upper case letters onto round white labels, placing them on the sea creatures. Provide students with lower case letter cards and have them match each of their 'catches' to the appropriate card.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCounting Practice. Script numbers onto round white labels, sticking them to the sea creatures. Provide your kiddos with dotted counting cards, inviting them to match the numerals to the card with the correct number of dots.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePractice Simple Addition. Set out cards with simple addition {or subtraction} problems, placing a sea creature with the correct answer scripted onto a round white dot into the pond\/ocean. Have your students fish for the correct answer, matching each sea creature to the appropriate card.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe list could go on and on!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734118375449,"sku":"A3796","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/fishing-rod-painting.jpg?v=1522781780"},{"product_id":"diy-paint-chip-game-a2354","title":"DIY - Paint Chip Game!","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-full wp-image-3145 \" title=\"paint-chip-game-1\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/paint-chip-game-1.jpg\" alt=\"Homemade Early Childhood Kids Game\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: alphamom.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe love this idea from \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/alphamom.com\/family-fun\/crafts\/make-a-paint-chip-board-game\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eAlphamom\u003c\/a\u003e! If you have any old paint chips lying around, consider creating a custom board game for your kiddos! Start by brainstorming a list of actions for each square. Include things like...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTurn around 3 times.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHop on one foot.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGive clues about your favorite animal and have your classmates guess what it is.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePretend to be your favorite animal.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhisper a secret phrase to the player on your left. Pass it around the circle in a game of \"Telephone\".\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e[NOTE: The possibilities for your game squares are truly endless! While the items listed above are more 'fun', consider including 'educational\/review' squares as well to assess your kiddos' knowledge of the concepts\/topics you've been discussing at home or in the classroom. Things like - identify the sight word on the playing square, solve the math problem, list several facts about the rainforest, etc.]\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSupplies You'll Need\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-854-tag-board.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eTag\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-852-poster-board.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eposter board\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRecycled paint chips\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-757-markers.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ePermanent marker\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-248-glue-adhesives.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eCraft glue\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGame pieces {Rachel and her kiddos used colorful \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-513-lego.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eLego®\u003c\/a\u003e pieces!}\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-805-dice.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eDice\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eCounting. Gross motor skills. Creativity. There are so many skills that can be fostered through a customized game for the home or classroom! Head on over to Alphamom to see how their game came together and get started on your own homemade fun!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734123683865,"sku":"A2354","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/paint-chip-game-1.jpg?v=1522781809"},{"product_id":"unique-ideas-for-sensory-play-a2363","title":"Unique Ideas for Sensory Play","description":"\u003cp\u003eIf you feel like your sensory bin is a bit 'tired', check out these awesome {and super unique!} ideas we found around the web...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-full wp-image-3212   \" title=\"Water-Beads\" alt=\"Sensory Bin for Preschool and Kindergarten\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Water-Beads.jpg\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: playathomemom3.blogspot.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/playathomemom3.blogspot.com\/2011\/06\/water-beads.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ePlay At Home Mom\u003c\/a\u003e suggests letting your kiddos explore water beads, which start small and then expand as they start to retain the water. The effect was especially cool when paired with a light table! [Check out the selection of water beads at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/crystalwaterbeads.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eCrystalWaterBeads.com\u003c\/a\u003e]\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-full wp-image-3214\" title=\"Sensory-Gel-Cake\" alt=\"Preschool and Kindergarten Sensory Activity\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Sensory-Gel-Cake.jpg\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: 4herreras.blogspot.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCreate a gelatin cake like this one at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/4herreras.blogspot.com\/2011\/01\/gelatin-cake.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eTime For Play\u003c\/a\u003e. Add in some drinking straws, food coloring, and curious hands, and you've got yourself a fine experiment!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-full wp-image-3217  \" title=\"Sticky-Table\" alt=\"Sensory and Fine Motor Activity for Preschool and Kindergarten\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Sticky-Table.jpg\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: shareandremember.blogspot.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStacy at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/shareandremember.blogspot.com\/2011\/07\/sticky-table-sensory-play.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003e{Share and Remember}\u003c\/a\u003e set out a table covered in contact paper, sticky side up, along with yarn, ribbon, pom poms and other craft materials in order to create a sticky sensory experience for her kiddos. [Pop a second sheet of contact paper over the design when finished and you'll have a fantastic piece of art for the wall!]\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-full wp-image-3218 \" title=\"Sensory-Steps\" alt=\"Gross Motor and Sensory Activity for Preschool and Kindergarten\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Sensory-Steps1.jpg\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: wendyjanelle.blogspot.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/wendyjanelle.blogspot.com\/2010\/05\/sensory-steps.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eWendy Janelle\u003c\/a\u003e created sensory stepping stones for her little one. These are fantastic for gross motor coordination and, of course, sensory exploration!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eGive your sensory stations a face-lift with one of these fabulous activities - your kiddos will love them!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e*          *          *\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003eAnd don't forget our recent post on the \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/ideas\/2355\/glow-in-the-dark-sensory-bin\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eglow in the dark sensory bin\u003c\/a\u003e!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734125486105,"sku":"A2363","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Water-Beads.jpg?v=1522781818"},{"product_id":"bug-themed-action-cards-a3427","title":"Bug Themed Action Cards","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-full wp-image-1421 \" title=\"action-cards-233x300\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/action-cards.jpg\" alt=\"Bug Themed Gross Motor Preschool Printable Activity\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: www.oopseydaisyblog.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe whole \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eI is for Insect\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e unit from Alison of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.oopseydaisyblog.com\/2011\/08\/i-is-for-insects-mommy-school.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eOopsey Daisy\u003c\/a\u003e is fantastic and filled to the brim with amazing learning exercises {and completely free to download at her website, by the way!!}, but we \u003cem\u003eespecially\u003c\/em\u003e love these bug themed action cards! If you need a fun transition activity or a \"fill-in\" exercise for when you finish a lesson early, just pull out a few of these cards and let the fun begin!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEleven action cards in all, each features a different insect and a unique motion. Your kiddos are sure to giggle as they attempt to \"\u003cem\u003eslide\u003c\/em\u003e like a snail\", \"\u003cem\u003eblink\u003c\/em\u003e like a lightning bug\", and \"\u003cem\u003ewiggle\u003c\/em\u003e like a caterpillar\"! As an alternative to the entire class completing the motions, play insect \"charades\" by having your students draw a card from a hat\/container and acting out the clue for their classmates to guess.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eBe sure to head on over to Oopsey Daisy for this {and other} fantastic downloads!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734125682713,"sku":"A3427","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/action-cards.jpg?v=1522781819"},{"product_id":"fall-sensory-play-cooking-nature-a3832","title":"Fall Sensory Play - Cooking + Nature","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-full wp-image-1279\" title=\"cooking-with-nature-fall-sensory\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/cooking-with-nature-fall-sensory.jpg\" alt=\"Fall Sensory Preschool Lesson Plan\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: sunhatswellieboots.blogspot.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe love this fall \"cooking with nature\" activity from \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/sunhatswellieboots.blogspot.com\/2011\/09\/harvest-sensory-play-cooking-with.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eSun Hats \u0026amp; Wellie Boots\u003c\/a\u003e! It's a great way for your kiddos to explore texture and smell, while developing gross motor and measuring skills. Here's what you'll need...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAn assortment of {fall inspired} natural elements - acorns, pine cones, colored leaves, nuts, fresh herbs, pumpkin seeds, etc.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLarge mixing bowl\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMeasuring cups and spoons\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLarge wooden spoon\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVarious small bowls for sorting, grinding, etc.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVarious cookie sheets and baking pans\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSet up a nature cooking station, inviting your kiddos to mix up some autumn concoctions! You might even set out an assortment of recipe books for your students to sift through as an extra \"pretend play\" element. Your little ones are sure to have a great time exploring and \"baking\"!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734127255577,"sku":"A3832","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/cooking-with-nature-fall-sensory.jpg?v=1522781829"},{"product_id":"a-is-for-apple-preschool-pack-a3439","title":"A is for Apple Preschool Pack","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-full wp-image-1507\" title=\"Apple-Shape-Puzzles\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Apple-Shape-Puzzles.jpg\" alt=\"Apple Theme Preschool Printables\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: www.confessionsofahomeschooler.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn honor of Johnny Appleseed Day, consider adding these adorable printables from Erica at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.confessionsofahomeschooler.com\/blog\/2010\/09\/letter-for-apple.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eConfessions of a Homeschooler\u003c\/a\u003eto your lesson plan! Through eleven different activities {eight of them available for download!}, your kiddos will learn\/strengthen various skills...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCounting\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGross motor\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHandwriting\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFine motor\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLetter recognition\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eShape recognition\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSequencing\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVisual discrimination\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePatterning\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMatching\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur favorite activity - the apple shape puzzles {shown above}! Students will build visual discrimination skills as well as shape recognition as they work to assemble the six 2-piece apple puzzles. For a fun twist, you might consider providing each of your students with the puzzles and have them race to put them together. The first student to assemble all of the apples correctly - wins!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eMake sure you visit Confessions of a Homeschooler for these awesome downloads!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734127616025,"sku":"A3439","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Apple-Shape-Puzzles.jpg?v=1522781831"},{"product_id":"sight-word-fun-star-swat-game-a3014","title":"Sight Word Fun - Star Swat Game!","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/word-wall-game.jpg\" alt=\"Math and Literacy Game Preschool Lesson Plan\" title=\"word-wall-game\" class=\"size-full wp-image-1209\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: www.cherylsigmon.com | Shannon Hardin\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis super fun activity comes from Shannon Hardin, feature contributor at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.cherylsigmon.com\/fun_a.asp\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eCheryl Sigmon's\u003c\/a\u003e fabulous web resource for teachers. While you'll need to set some ground rules, your kiddos are sure to \u003cem\u003elove\u003c\/em\u003e this wacky learning game!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSupplies You'll Need\n\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-852-poster-board.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ePoster board\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eShape \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-235-classic-accents.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ecutouts\u003c\/a\u003e {Shannon used stars}\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-4251-classroom-laminator.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eLaminator\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-1130-classroom-laminator-pouches.aspx?ad_id=product-related\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eLaminator pouches\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-5211-expo0174-low-odor-dry-erase-markers-16-color-set-chisel-tip.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eDry erase\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-20334-marker-set-vis-a-vis-8-color-wet-erase-blk-rd-blu-grn-yllw-brwn-prpl.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003etransparency marker\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFly swatters\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShannon glued the same number of cutouts to each piece of poster board, then laminated both posters. This provides an editable game surface {e.g. you can use dry erase markers to write on the cutouts, erase them all after the game, and add something new for the next activity!} and creates a whole host of opportunities for learning fun!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHere are a few possibilities...\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShannon scripted various focus words onto the stars {in a different location on each game poster}, then divided her kiddos into teams, having them race to find and swat the words as they were called out. You could exchange the sight words for various vocabulary words, calling out a beginning sound and having students swat the matching word. You might also consider calling out a word and having your kiddos swat the word that rhymes with it. Switching gears, for some math practice you might have your kinders practice numeral or number word identification or maybe counting by adding various numbers of dots to each cutout. The possibilities truly are endless! Be sure to visit the full post for poster and game directions!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734127681561,"sku":"A3014","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/word-wall-game.jpg?v=1522781831"},{"product_id":"can-you-build-it-block-center-idea-a3838","title":"Can You Build It? - Block Center Idea","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-full wp-image-1311 \" title=\"Can-You-Build-It\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Can-You-Build-It.jpg\" alt=\"Building and Following Directions Kindergarten Lesson Plan\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: preschoolpond.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe love this block center idea from \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/preschoolpond.com\/blocks.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ePreschool Pond\u003c\/a\u003e - create a book of \"building plans\" for your kiddos to copy!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEvery building center has different materials, so take inventory of your selection...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-513-lego.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eLEGO Duplos\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-513-lego.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eLEGOs\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-242-wooden-blocks.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eWooden blocks\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-1919-gears-gears-gears0174-super-set.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eGears\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-10192-grid-blocks-32-piece-set.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eGrid blocks\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-8891-magneatos0153-curves-50-piece-set.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eMagnetos\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-10845-skyscraper-building-set.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eSkyscraper blocks\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-10597-foam-building-blocks-set-68-pieces-primary.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eFoam building blocks\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEtcetera, etcetera!!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis takes a bit of time to put together, but work with each separate building material, creating fun patterns, buildings, towers, letters, etc. Take a picture of each creation from multiple angles then arrange the prints into the building \"manual\" for students to copy. Create a separate book of plans for each building medium, or create a giant book of blueprints with tabbed sections. This is a great way to strengthen visual discrimination and problem solving skills, as well as provide your kiddos with practice following directions! You might also include a \"Free Build\" section, adding pictures of generic creations - a bridge, a house, etc. - that your students can interpret and create on their own using whatever building materials they desire {even a combo!}.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e[NOTE: We also love the signs placed in the building center at Preschool Pond (pictured below) - \"Work in Progress - STOP!\" They're fantastic for students who need to take a bathroom break, etc. in the middle of their work!]\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-full wp-image-1310 \" title=\"Building-Center-Sign\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Building-Center-Sign.jpg\" alt=\"Gross Motor and Problem Solving Kindergarten Lesson Plan\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: preschoolpond.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eBe sure to visit Preschool Pond for more pictures and ideas!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734128336921,"sku":"A3838","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Can-You-Build-It.jpg?v=1522781835"},{"product_id":"3-unique-takes-on-the-fall-tree-craft-a2380","title":"3 Unique Takes on the Fall Tree Craft!","description":"\u003cp\u003eWe've been frequenting one of our favorite inspiration site {Pinterest, of course!} for fun fall craft ideas and stumbled upon these three unique fall tree crafts. Fingerprint fall trees can be super cute, but if you're looking for something a little different this year, check these out!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-full wp-image-3332\" title=\"Fall-Tree-1\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Fall-Tree-1.jpg\" alt=\"Autumn and Fall Kids Craft\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: messypreschoolers.blogspot.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCollage\/Mosaic Trees\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith simple paper scraps, your students can create some dynamic autumn trees like these at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/toddlerapproved.blogspot.com\/2011\/09\/snippin-fall-foliage.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eToddler Approved\u003c\/a\u003e {we found via \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/messypreschoolers.blogspot.com\/2011\/09\/its-playtime-falling-for-fall.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eMessy Kids\u003c\/a\u003e}! We think this is a great activity for toddler\/preschool age children - as they tear and\/or cut the paper, they'll develop much needed fine motor skills, and they'll strengthen visual discrimination and problem solving skills as they arrange the scraps into a discernible shape.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-full wp-image-3333 \" title=\"Fall-Tree-2\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Fall-Tree-2.jpg\" alt=\"Pumpkin Seed Fall Tree Kids Craft\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: naturenest.wordpress.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePumpkin Seed Trees\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/naturenest.wordpress.com\/2008\/11\/11\/pumpkin-seed-mosaic-art-a-fall-kids-craft\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eOur Little Nature Nest\u003c\/a\u003e invites you to use dyed pumpkin seeds to create a fabulous fall tree! This is a great way to include natural elements in your artwork and it just \u003cem\u003efits\u003c\/em\u003e!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-full wp-image-3334\" title=\"Fall-Tree-3\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Fall-Tree-3.jpg\" alt=\"Noodle Autumn Tree Craft for Kids\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: www.notimeforflashcards.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNoodle Tree\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKim, contributing writer to \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.notimeforflashcards.com\/2011\/09\/fall-noodle-tree-craft.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eNo Time For Flash Cards\u003c\/a\u003e, suggests adding some food and gross motor skill building to the project - using crushed dry pasta {either dyed with fall colors or purchasing pre-colored 'veggie' pasta} to create your fall foliage! What a fun alternative!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eThese are just the\u003c\/em\u003e tip \u003cem\u003eof the iceberg {so to speak}. You can find all sorts of creative takes on this traditional project around the web! Be sure to check these out and shake up your fall art plan!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734128402457,"sku":"A2380","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Fall-Tree-1.jpg?v=1522781835"},{"product_id":"the-counting-ball-game-a3839","title":"The Counting Ball Game","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-full wp-image-1317 \" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/18457218_e76e601ada_o.jpg\" alt=\"Math Counting Game Preschool Lesson Plan\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: flickr.com | Sister72\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis fun game from Iram and James of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.canteach.ca\/elementary\/numbers8.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eCanTeach\u003c\/a\u003e is great for practicing counting skills {including skip counting if your kiddos have moved to this level} and honing gross motor skills - the only material you'll need is a soft ball!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStart by having your students form a circle and call out a number. This is the number that your kiddos will be counting to using the desired interval. [NOTE: If counting by 2s, or another interval, make sure the number you call fits into the sequence. For example, when counting by 2s, calling out '13' wouldn't be appropriate, but '12' or '14' would.]\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHand the ball to a student volunteer to start off the counting. They'll say the first number in the sequence and pass the ball to a classmate, who will say the next number, and continue the process. The student left holding the ball when the target number is reached is out. The game continues until there is one student standing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e[NOTE: As an alternative to each student coming up with each particular number in the sequence, count as a group.]\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eThere are lots of neat resources and ideas at CanTeach so be sure to visit!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734128467993,"sku":"A3839","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/18457218_e76e601ada_o.jpg?v=1522781836"},{"product_id":"indoor-games-for-parties-or-bad-weather-days-a3021","title":"Indoor Games for Parties or Bad Weather Days!","description":"\u003cp\u003ePerusing Amy's posts at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.theidearoom.net\/2011\/04\/hopscotch-play-mat-by-a-girl-and-a-glue-gun.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eThe Idea Room\u003c\/a\u003e, we discovered that felt can be a magical crafting material and provide your kinders with hours of indoor fun - specifically when used to bring outdoor games inside! As we head into the winter and holiday season, you might just want to put one or two of these game ideas on your crafting to-do list. They would make great party activities or simply provide your kiddos with a way to \"get their wiggles out\" when it's too gross to go outside!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-full wp-image-1248 \" title=\"Hopscotch-Mat\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Hopscotch-Mat.jpg\" alt=\"Gross Motor Indoor Games Kindergarten Lesson Plan\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: www.theidearoom.net\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCheck out this awesome hopscotch mat! The mat itself is made from canvas so it's super durable and the whole activity folds up neatly for storage. What a fabulous way to help your kiddos review numbers, learn about sequencing, and strengthen gross motor coordination!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-full wp-image-1249 \" title=\"Dart-Toss-Game\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Dart-Toss-Game.jpg\" alt=\"Gross Motor Indoor Games Kindergarten Lesson Plan\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: www.theidearoom.net\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe love this fabulous floor bean bag \"darts\" game. Students stand at a predetermined start line and toss felt bean bags {with fun fringed tops} onto the play mat to earn points. This is a fantastic way to provide your kiddos with number and addition practice, as well as build gross motor control!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e[NOTE: To make these into party games, simply use felt in the color scheme of the holiday. For Halloween, alternate black, orange, purple, and lime green. For Thanksgiving, try orange, yellow, tan, and brown. And, for Christmas, use red, dark green, and lime green! You get the picture...]\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eBe sure to visit Amy's blog for this tutorial as well as lots of other great projects!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734128992281,"sku":"A3021","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Hopscotch-Mat.jpg?v=1522781839"},{"product_id":"halloween-game-for-kids-candy-corn-toss-a2388","title":"Halloween Game for Kids - Candy Corn Toss","description":"\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-large wp-image-3396 alignnone\" title=\"Candy-Corn-Toss\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Candy-Corn-Toss.jpg\" alt=\"Halloween or Fall Kids Party Game\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you're looking for a fun {not-too-scary} game for your kiddos to play during your Halloween\/harvest party, try this simple candy corn toss...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSupplies You'll Need\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-852-poster-board.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ePoster\u003c\/a\u003e\/\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-854-tag-board.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003etag board\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-12240-sargent-artreg-art-timereg-washable-tempera-paint-gallon-yellowspectral-yellow-gallon.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eYellow\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-12241-sargent-artreg-art-timereg-washable-tempera-paint-gallon-orangespectral-orange-gallon.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eorange craft paint\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-761-scissors.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eCraft scissors\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e9 oz. clear plastic cups\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePermanent marker or circle stickers\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSuper glue\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCandy corn\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eTo assemble...\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBegin by drawing and cutting two candy corn shapes from the poster\/tag board. Modeling after the candy, divide the cutouts into three sections, painting the top section yellow and the middle section orange. As the cutouts dry, use the permanent marker to label the cups with numbers {or use word processing software and adhesive circle labels like we did!}. We chose point values from 1 to 3, but you can customize the point structure any way you wish! Once the candy corn cutouts are dry, use the super glue to attach the cups on the game board.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eTo play...\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDivide students into two teams, arming each student with five pieces of candy corn. Set up the candy corn game boards and set up a \"tossing line\". Have students take turns tossing their candy in an attempt to earn points for their team. Once each student has had a chance to participate, count out the points earn and declare the winner!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734129877017,"sku":"A2388","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Candy-Corn-Toss.jpg?v=1522781845"},{"product_id":"christmas-action-cards-a3035","title":"Christmas Action Cards","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-full wp-image-1334\" title=\"action card2\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/action-card2.jpg\" alt=\"Gross Motor Christmas Kindergarten Lesson Plan\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: www.oopseydaisyblog.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs the Christmas holiday approaches and your kiddos get a little antsy, help them get their \"wiggles out\" with these fun action cards from Alison at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.oopseydaisyblog.com\/2010\/12\/book-advent-day-20-christmas-action.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eOopsey Daisy\u003c\/a\u003e! They'll have your little ones 'twisting like candy canes', 'chuckling like Santa Claus', and pretending to 'twinkle like stars'! Once you've gotten through all the cards, invite your students to volunteer their \u003cem\u003eown\u003c\/em\u003e Christmas actions. After all the action, settle into circle time for a fun Christmas story, rhyme, or fingerplay.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eBe sure to visit Oopsey Daisy for the action card download and check out Apples 4 the Teacher {or another teacher resource website} for a great selection of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.apples4theteacher.com\/holidays\/christmas\/kids-books\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eChristmas literature\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.apples4theteacher.com\/holidays\/christmas\/poems-rhymes\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003epoems\u003c\/a\u003e, and rhymes!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734132236313,"sku":"A3035","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/action-card2.jpg?v=1522781859"},{"product_id":"christmas-music-and-pretend-play-a3866","title":"Christmas Music and Pretend Play","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-full wp-image-1481\" title=\"Paper-Plate-Ice-Skating\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Paper-Plate-Ice-Skating.jpg\" alt=\"Winter and Christmas Music and Pretend Play Preschool Lesson Plan\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: thehomeschoolden.blogspot.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe found some adorable Christmas music activities at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/thehomeschoolden.blogspot.com\/2011\/12\/music-class-cute-christmas-activities.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eThe Homeschool Den\u003c\/a\u003e that we're certain you're kiddos will enjoy this holiday season - and, of course, it will help them get their wiggles out!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eLondon Bridge is Falling Down\u003c\/em\u003e {Christmas Style}\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLiesl created a fun Christmas version of the well-know children's tune, \u003cem\u003eLondon Bridge is Falling Down\u003c\/em\u003e. As with the original song, students line up and take turns skipping under a 'bridge' created by two adults {or students}, circling back around to go under again and again - when they get 'trapped' under the bridge, Liesl suggests putting a Santa hat on the student's head and singing her special second verse!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSkater's Waltz\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnother fun idea that'll get your kiddos humming and burning off some of their pent up energy, is to provide each of your students with paper plates and invite them to pretend to ice skate around the classroom - playing Christmas tunes, of course!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eBe sure to visit The Homeschool Den for these and other great ideas!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734134562841,"sku":"A3866","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Paper-Plate-Ice-Skating.jpg?v=1522781873"},{"product_id":"exercising-for-heart-health-a3067","title":"Exercising for Heart Health","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-full wp-image-1502\" title=\"poster-hearthealthy-046\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/poster-hearthealthy-046.jpg\" alt=\"Valentine's Day Heart Health Game Kindergarten Lesson Plan\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: www.makeandtakes.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince hearts are the name of the game on Valentine's Day, the holiday creates a unique opportunity to talk with your kinders about heart health. We love this \u003cdel\u003eworkout\u003c\/del\u003e game created by Marie LeBaron of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.makeandtakes.com\/heart-healthy-exercise-game\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eMake and Takes\u003c\/a\u003e and think it would be a fun way to remind your kiddos that we need to exercise in order keep our hearts healthy, as well as dispel some of the winter \"blahs\" and help your kinders get some of their \"wiggles\" out!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSimply invite a student volunteer to toss a beanbag onto the exercise mat to select an exercise and draw a number card, then do the activity as a class. This could be a great transition activity or a way to \"wake up\" your kinders when they're having a hard time concentrating.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eFor directions on making the homemade heart bean bag and suggestions on creating your own exercise game mat, be sure to visit Make and Takes!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734137937945,"sku":"A3067","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/poster-hearthealthy-046.jpg?v=1522781893"},{"product_id":"mardi-gras-masks-shakers-a2429","title":"Mardi Gras Masks \u0026 Shakers!","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Mardi-Gras-Masks-Shakers.jpg\" alt=\"February Mardi Gras and Carnival Kids Crafts\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto ©2011 www.momto2poshlildivas.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLooking for a fun way to incorporate Mardi Gras into the classroom? Check out these adorable crafts from Bern over at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.momto2poshlildivas.com\/2011\/03\/celebrating-mardi-gras-with-masks.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eMom to 2 Posh Lil Divas\u003c\/a\u003e. They're just what you need to get the celebration started!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMardi Gras Masks\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMask template {we found several templates over at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.firstpalette.com\/tool_box\/printables\/masquerademask.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eFirst Palette\u003c\/a\u003e}\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-21258-white-card-stock-40-sheet.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eWhite card stock\u003c\/a\u003e or foam sheets\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-56-craft-supplies.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eCraft embellishments\u003c\/a\u003e - \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-1293-paint-accessories.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003epaint\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-2027-glitter-12-pack.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eglitter\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-27378-charles-leonard-oz-all-purpose-glue.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eglue\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-469-spectra0174-deluxe-art-tissue0153-assortments-20-sheets-20-x-30.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eart tissue paper\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-3467-feathers-hot-colors.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003efeathers\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-8761-sequins-spangles-shaker-jar.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003esequins\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-4816-fun-gems.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003egems\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-5724-chenille-stems-assorted-12-sparkle-stems.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003echenille stems\u003c\/a\u003e (to curl!), etc.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThin dowel rod or single paper punch and yarn\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLet your kiddos have fun with the mask - perhaps showing them examples - but ultimately allowing them to create and decorate using the craft materials that inspire them! It will be fun to see the varied results - some students might paint their designs, others might cover the entire mask with shiny sequins, and still others might decide to collage the mask with torn squares of art tissue paper!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e[Notes on wearing the masks... The dowel rod is great because it's 'one size fits all'. No holes need to be punched. No measuring needs to take place. No finagling of any kind. \u003cem\u003eHowever\u003c\/em\u003e, if you plan to use the masks and shakers together, your students will want their hands free and the holes\/yarn may just be the way to go...]\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMardi Gras Shakers\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRecycled water bottles with caps\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-8635-artista-ii0174-liquid-tempera-paint-16-oz-violet.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ePurple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-8637-artista-ii0174-liquid-tempera-paint-16-oz-green.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003egreen\u003c\/a\u003e, and \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-8632-artista-ii0174-liquid-tempera-paint-16-oz-yellow.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eyellow craft paint\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-2012-colossal-brushes-set-of-10-assorted-colors.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ePaint brushes\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFiller - rice, dried beans, etc.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-27378-charles-leonard-oz-all-purpose-glue.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eCraft glue\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis project is pretty self explanatory, however we do recommend that after the bottle has been painted, dried, and filled, an adult use glue to permanently attach the bottle cap. This will deter curious little party-goers from opening the bottle and making a mess!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eThese projects are fabulous and, perhaps, paired with a fun \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/ideas\/3073\/the-music-of-louisiana-a-special-activity-for-mardi-gras\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eMardi Gras music lesson\u003c\/a\u003e your kiddos will have a day to remember!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/bundle-12066\/mardi-gras-masks-and-shakers\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eClick here to view the suggested products for these crafts!\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734139772953,"sku":"A2429","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Mardi-Gras-Masks-Shakers.jpg?v=1522781904"}],"url":"https:\/\/www.supplyme.com\/collections\/skill-gross-motor-skills.oembed?page=4","provider":"SupplyMe","version":"1.0","type":"link"}