{"title":"Making Observations","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"learning-about-classification-a1880","title":"Learning About Classification","description":"\u003cp\u003eEarly on, children learn how to classify objects. They learn that socks come in pairs. They learn to categorize shoes based on season (i.e. winter boots, summer sandals, etc.). What they may not know is that classification is simply grouping items by common characteristics. Sometimes these characteristics can be seen, other times they are recognized through other senses. A great way to strengthen observation skills is to ask your students to view a selection of objects and create their own system of classification.\n\nWhile you may not be a geology teacher, rocks offer great opportunities for practicing this skill set. Divide your students into groups of four or five and provide each team with ten rock samples. Instruct them to design a classification system that will include each rock given. There is no wrong answer and the more creative students can get, the better. Groups may choose to base their rock categories on size, color, texture, or even shape. After finalizing their system, have a member of each group present their findings. Once everyone has had a turn, decide as a class which system of classification best suits the rock samples.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/blissfullydomestic.com\/2010\/classification\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eClassification | Blissfully Domestic\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSave big on an \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-276-classroom-rugs-classroom-carpets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eeducation carpet\u003c\/a\u003e!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734075973657,"sku":"A1880","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"silhouette-shape-matching-game-a3289","title":"Silhouette Shape Matching Game","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-7  \" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Made-by-Joel-Shape-Match.jpg\" alt=\"Silhouette Shape Matching Game\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: madebyjoel.blogspot.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMatching games are a great way to improve memory, teach the concepts of grouping and sorting, strengthen problem solving skills, and teach critical thinking. Joel Henriques, artist and creator of the blog \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/madebyjoel.blogspot.com\/2010\/07\/match-game.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eMade By Joel\u003c\/a\u003e, designed this silhouette shape matching game printable that your students are sure to love! It has spectacular graphics (be sure to pull out the crayons and markers because your students will certainly be asking to color in these quirky characters!) and the silhouettes provide a unique matching challenge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eLeave it on your students' desks as a surprise morning warm-up, keep a stack at the writing center for individual fun, or build it into a lesson on shapes, making observations, or creative writing (e.g. have your students pretend that the characters have \"lost their shadows\", inviting them to describe how they lost it and their adventures in trying to get it back). Be sure to visit Henriques' \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/madebyjoel.blogspot.com\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ewebsite\u003c\/a\u003e for the download and take the time to check out his other great early childhood posts!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"mpm-adbox\"\u003eNeed some \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eteacher supplies\u003c\/a\u003e for your preschool classroom?  Check out our online store at mpmSchoolSupplies.com where we offer everything from \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-276-classroom-rugs-classroom-carpets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003elearning carpets\u003c\/a\u003e to \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-432-dramatic-play.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003epretend play toys\u003c\/a\u003e!\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734088622105,"sku":"A3289","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Made-by-Joel-Shape-Match.jpg?v=1522781600"},{"product_id":"pretend-archeological-digs-a2239","title":"Pretend Archeological Digs","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/abbybatchelder\/3680526610\/in\/photostream\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-2110\" title=\"Digging - Abby Batchelder\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Digging-Abby-Batchelder.jpg\" alt=\"\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: Flickr | Abby Batchelder\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are two things every kid loves - dirt and treasure! Abbie, creator of the blog Greening Sam and Avery, recommends putting the two together for some great digging (scientific) fun!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSupplies You'll Need\n\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLarge flower pots or bins\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePotting soil\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSeasonal treasure (pine cones, acorns, small pumpkins, gourds, etc.)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDigging tools (scoops, shovels, spoons, rakes, etc.)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePrepare for the activity by filling the flower pots or bins with potting soil and hiding the \"treasure\" in the dirt. Consider doing this in layers (e.g. pour a bit of dirt, add several items, pour dirt, add items, etc.) until the container is full.\n\nSet up your \"digging sites\" outside and divide students into teams of three. Help each group of students define their role in the dig. While each child will be helping unearth the items in the soil, have each student take on a special role just like a real archeological team would!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTeam roles:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRecorder. Give this student a picture checklist of the items they are to uncover. As each new object is found, invite them to update their list.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTool Specialist. Give this student a picture checklist of the tools their team will be using to excavate. Have them take an inventory of the tools when they reach the dig site and again at the end to make sure everything is accounted for.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTreasure Preserver. Provide this student with sample bags and picture labels. As the treasure is unearthed, have them place the item in a bag and tape on the proper picture label for further examination after the dig.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter the dig, have students bring their \"samples\" back to the classroom. Discuss the conditions of the dig (e.g. was the soil soft or hard\/compacted, did certain tools work better than others, did the size of an object make it easier\/harder to find it, etc.).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot only will your students have a blast \"playing in the dirt\", they'll learn to make observations, how to keep accurate records, strengthen counting skills, practice proper labeling, learn to work as a team, and so much more!\n\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/greeningsamandavery.typepad.com\/greening-sam-and-avery\/2010\/09\/day-91-digging-fun.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003e\nDay 91: digging fun - Greening Sam and Avery\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNeed more classroom ideas? For great early childhood teaching resources and supplies, be sure to check out \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eMPM School Supplies\u003c\/a\u003e!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734089343001,"sku":"A2239","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Digging-Abby-Batchelder.jpg?v=1522781605"},{"product_id":"grow-an-egghead-in-preschool-a3699","title":"Grow An “Egghead” in Preschool","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-26  \" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Smiley-Egg-Head-themonnie.jpg\" alt=\"\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: http:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/themonnie\/\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt doesn't need to be Easter for you to have fun with eggs in the classroom. Here's a great sensory science lesson from \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.preschooleducation.com\/sceaster.shtml\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ePreschool Education\u003c\/a\u003e that your students will enjoy participating in!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSupplies You'll Need\n\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEggshell\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePotting soil\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGrass seed\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBlack marker\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHeavy craft paper\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTape\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBefore creating your \"egghead\", you'll need to create a base for it to sit on. Cut and decorate (optional) a 1-inch strip of card stock. Bend it into a circle or ring and use tape to secure the end (NOTE: Before taping, make sure the circle is big enough to securely hold the egg).\nCarefully break the top off an eggshell (clean the shell well), then using a spoon, fill three-fourths of it with potting soil. Sprinkle in some grass seed and add another thin layer of soil. Add water, but don't over soak the soil. If you desire, use the black marker to draw a funny face on the egg, then tape it to the card stock base. Keep your egghead in a sunny location and it should have a full head of \"hair\" in about a week!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThrough the process, have your students observe the egghead and make notes of it's progress (e.g. drawings of the soil\/sprouts, notes on when it begins to sprout, etc.). Whether you have your students create their own, or just create a class egghead, your students are sure to have a ball with this science lesson!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734089474073,"sku":"A3699","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Smiley-Egg-Head-themonnie.jpg?v=1522781606"},{"product_id":"halloween-science-for-kinders-a2885","title":"Halloween Science For Kinders!","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-74\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Science-Experiment-Andrey-Kiselev.jpg\" alt=\"\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: Andrey Kiselev\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile your classroom Halloween party provides a chance for your students to unwind and have fun, why not throw a little science into the mix. Between the sweet treats and festive crafts, they won't even know you've sprung an actual lesson on them! Here are a few fun activities to try from Dawn at Not Just A Mommy!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBubbling Reactions\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDawn suggests having your students explore the traditional vinegar-baking soda chemical reaction with a twist - add red food coloring to the vinegar and pretend that you're mixing vampire \"blood\" with garlic powder.\n\n\u003cstrong\u003eGoblin Goo\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLet students experiment with \"goblin slime\". The borax-glue mixture reveals solid properties when played with, but exhibits the flowing property of a liquid when left to settle. The great thing is, goblin goo can be kept near indefinitely so seal it in plastic bags and send it home for further exploration and fun!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePoison Testing\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHelp students learn about pH by testing various \"poisons\" (e.g. lemon juice, vinegar, orange juice, milk, distilled water, egg whites, milk of magnesia, etc.) using pH paper test strips. While they may not understand exactly what pH means, Dawn suggests reviewing color matching instead. When testing a substance, the pH paper will turn a certain color. Invite students to identify the color and match it to the color guide. Help them identify and record the pH level (number).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor great decorating tips, more fun science ideas, and sweet treats, be sure to read Dawn's \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/dawnypoo.blogspot.com\/2008\/11\/real-party-mad-scientist-lab-halloween.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003efull post\u003c\/a\u003e!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734089834521,"sku":"A2885","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Science-Experiment-Andrey-Kiselev.jpg?v=1522781608"},{"product_id":"dissecting-a-pumpkin-a3296","title":"Dissecting A Pumpkin","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-151 \" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Dissect-A-Pumpkin-Worksheet.jpg\" alt=\"\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: nwf.org\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePreschoolers possess an innate curiosity about the world and their surroundings. Incorporating simple, yet stimulating science lessons and exercises into your  curriculum that address some of these curiosities will help them begin to order and make sense of the world around  them. Additionally, through these exercises your students will learn \u003cem\u003ehow\u003c\/em\u003e to ask questions and \u003cem\u003ehow\u003c\/em\u003e to go about finding the answer. If you're looking for a seasonally appropriate science experience for your kidders, here’s a great fall  activity designed by the creators of the National Wildlife Federation’s  children’s publication \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eRanger Rick\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e that will aid your students in exploring pumpkins – inside and out!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eExercise Objectives\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStudents will strengthen both math and science skill sets as they measure height, width, and circumference.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStudents will build upon their vocabulary as they describe what they observe during \"dissection\".\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStudents will learn about the \"life cycle\" of a pumpkin as they explore both the seeds and the fruit.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStudents will strengthen fine motor skills and use creativity as they draw pictures of their observations.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStudents will hone writing and literacy skills as they dictate their observations for record.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStudents will learn about scientific procedure, making observations, keeping accurate records, labeling, and using scientific instruments.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan id=\"more\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003eThere are many extensions you can incorporate in this activity as well:\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e Explain what a prediction is and invite your students to predict how many seeds the pumpkin holds.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFor more practice with the scale, have students weigh the pumpkin before being hollowed and again afterward to find out how much the \"goop\" weighs.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDiscuss the difference between a fruit and a vegetable and invite your students to determine which group a pumpkin belongs to.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis list could go on and on. So roll up your sleeves and prepare to get a bit messy with this fun pumpkin science worksheet!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHappy carving!\n\u003cimg class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-25\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Blog-Signature1.jpg\" alt=\"\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734090620953,"sku":"A3296","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Dissect-A-Pumpkin-Worksheet.jpg?v=1522781613"},{"product_id":"halloween-literature-unit-arthur-s-halloween-a2893","title":"Halloween Literature Unit: Arthur’s Halloween","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-137\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Arthurs-Halloween.jpg\" alt=\"arthur's halloween childrens literature by marc brown\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e{Kimberly L. Short, lesson plan contributor to \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.eduref.org\/Virtual\/Lessons\/Language_Arts\/Reading\/RDG0018.html#lesson2\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eEducator’s Reference Desk\u003c\/a\u003e, has designed an exciting Halloween themed reading unit that your kindergartners are sure to enjoy. Designed to explore several literature selections over sixteen days, here are a few highlights!}\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYour kindergartners will certainly recognize the characters of Short's next literature selection - it's PBS' Arthur and the gang!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLesson Objectives\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAssess and promote the skill of following directions.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLearn about the importance of helping people around us.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAssess and promote observation skills.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReview the basic parts of a story - beginning, middle, and end.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLearn how to work together in a group.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003ePre-Story Activity\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBefore class starts, prepare a \"magic\" bag filled with various Halloween cutouts (e.g. witch's hat, black cat, broom stick, ghost, etc.). Since you don't usually carry a large tote bag around during class, use this as a way to assess student observation skills. Invite them to determine what's different about you, and once they do, have them come up to the reading circle\n\n\u003cem\u003ePost-Story Activities\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUpon reading the story, discuss what Arthur and D.W. did to help Mrs. Tibble. Have students take turns describing a time when \u003cem\u003ethey\u003c\/em\u003e helped someone. Invite your students to come up with a list of reasons why it's important to help others.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInstead of dismissing students back to their seat, play a game that will help to strengthen listening skills and get them back to their desks at the same time! Invite students to close their eyes as you pass out the Halloween cutouts in your \"magic\" bag. Recognize each individual item through song (e.g. To the tune of \"The Muffin Man\" - Do you have the jack-o-lantern, the jack-o-lantern, the jack-o-lantern? Oh, if you have the jack-o-lantern, please stand up.). After their turn, encourage your students to return to their seats.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor Short's recommended activities, be sure to check out her full plan at Educator's Reference Desk!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734092193817,"sku":"A2893","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Arthurs-Halloween.jpg?v=1522781622"},{"product_id":"halloween-literature-unit-pumpkin-patch-unit-project-a2895","title":"Halloween Literature Unit: Pumpkin Patch Unit Project","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-large wp-image-164 \" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Pumpkin-Patch.jpg\" alt=\"pumpkin patch\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: Rikki Degraz\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e{Kimberly L. Short, lesson plan contributor to \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.eduref.org\/Virtual\/Lessons\/Language_Arts\/Reading\/RDG0018.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eEducator’s Reference  Desk\u003c\/a\u003e, has designed an exciting Halloween themed reading unit that your  kindergartners are sure to enjoy. Designed to explore several literature  selections over sixteen days, here are a few highlights!}\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile Short details various daily activities to complete based on one literature selection or another, she also ties the unit together with two projects that span its entirety.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePumpkin Patch Project Objectives\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLearn about making predictions.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLearn about cause and effect.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReview the basic parts of a story - beginning, middle, and end.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReview the concept of sequencing.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHere is an overview of the project:\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable id=\"wp-table-reloaded-id-1-no-1\" class=\"wp-table-reloaded wp-table-reloaded-id-1\"\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"row-1\"\u003e\n\u003cth class=\"column-1\"\u003eDay\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth class=\"column-2\"\u003eProject Directions\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"row-2\"\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"column-1\"\u003e1\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"column-2\"\u003eBefore students get to class, create a \"pumpkin patch\" by covering a classroom table with brown bulletin board paper or recycled paper bags. Use watercolor paints - mainly brown, white, black, and gray - for detailing (e.g. plow marks, etc.). Create small slits in the \"dirt\".\nAt the end of the first lesson, have students make pumpkin seeds from sturdy craft paper and invite them to \"plant\" it in the pumpkin patch. Have students create an opening entry in their nature journal, making predictions on what will happen in the life cycle of their pumpkin.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"row-3\"\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"column-1\"\u003e2\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"column-2\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eCharge students with observing the pumpkin patch daily for changes. Have them record the changes in a nature journal using both words and pictures. If there is no visible change, have students write \"no change\", but invite them predict what might be happening under the \"soil\".\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"row-4\"\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"column-1\"\u003e3\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"column-2\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eDon't forget to make observations and journal about what's happening with the pumpkin seed under the \"soil\"!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"row-5\"\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"column-1\"\u003e4\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"column-2\"\u003eDiscuss what pumpkin seedlings need in order to grow (e.g. \"food\" and water). Have students brainstorm where their pumpkin seeds will get these essentials.\n\u003cp\u003eProvide students with blue sheets of construction paper and have them create \"raindrops\" with which to water their pumpkin seeds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eDon't forget to create a nature journal entry and, again, predict what the water will do for the seeds.\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"row-6\"\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"column-1\"\u003e5\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"column-2\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eCharge students with observing the pumpkin patch daily for changes. Have them record the changes in a nature journal using both words and pictures. If there is no visible change, have students write \"no change\", but invite them predict what might be happening under the \"soil\".\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"row-7\"\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"column-1\"\u003e6\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"column-2\"\u003eBefore students get to class, create small green vines from bulletin board paper or construction paper and place them in the patch where the seeds have been planted. Have students compare their pumpkin's progress with their journal entry predictions on the first day. Did they expect that vines were part of the pumpkin \"life cycle\"? What are their revised predictions (if any)?\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"row-8\"\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"column-1\"\u003e7\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"column-2\"\u003eBefore students get to class, create several crows and place them in the pumpkin patch. Discuss the \"hardships\" pumpkins face while attempting to grow. Help students \"shoo\" the crows from their patch, then have them brainstorm (overnight) how to keep dangerous pests out of the patch.\n\u003cem\u003eDon't forget to journal!\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"row-9\"\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"column-1\"\u003e8\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"column-2\"\u003eCompile a list of student suggestions for keeping crows out and vote on the best solution. One of them will likely have suggested scarecrows. Provide materials and templates for your students to create their own scarecrow and help them place their creations in the patch.\n\u003cem\u003eDon't forget to journal!\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"row-10\"\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"column-1\"\u003e9\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"column-2\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eDon't forget to make observations and journal about what's happening with the pumpkin seed and vine!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor the rest of the project directions, be sure to read Short's full lesson plan at Educator's Reference Desk!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734092881945,"sku":"A2895","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Pumpkin-Patch.jpg?v=1522781627"},{"product_id":"pumpkin-life-cycle-game-a3711","title":"Pumpkin Life Cycle Game","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Pumpkin-Life-Cycle-Game-Board-e1288124847911.jpg\" alt=\"homemade game board with sun raindrop and soil object markers\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003eHomemade Game Board\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWant a fun way to teach your preschoolers about the life cycle of a pumpkin? Try this simple homemade game! As they play, students will learn what pumpkins need in order to grow, about their stages of growth, and end up with a snazzy fall craft to boot!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo begin, provide each student with a game board as well as a pumpkin \"seed\" made from tan Wonderfoam® and their very own \"pumpkin patch\" created by folding a piece brown piece of construction paper as shown:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Pumpkin-Life-Cycle-Game-Paper-Folding1.jpg\" alt=\"paper folding diagrams\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInvite each student to \"plant\" their pumpkin seed under the paper flap, then take turns rolling the die in hopes of \"growing\" their seed into a pumpkin!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Pumpkin-Life-Cycle-Game-Dice-e1288125165859.jpg\" alt=\"paper die with raindrop soil sun and pumpkin icons\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003eHomemade Game Die\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eRolling the Die\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf the die lands on a sun, raindrop, or soil icon, students should move the corresponding marker on their game board. If the die lands on a pumpkin square, students pass the die to the next student and do nothing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWinning the Game\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach time students roll the die, they have a chance to provide their seedling with something it needs in order to grow: sunlight, water, and nutrients from the soil. The goal is to advance each marker on the game board to the opposite side (each marker should start at the left and progress toward the right). Each time one of the markers reaches the end, students will receive the pieces needed to advance their pumpkin to the next growth stage:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEvery pumpkin first begins as a seed that needs to be planted. Students will receive the materials for the first stage at the beginning of the game.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Pumpkin-Life-Cycle-Game-Phase-1.jpg\" alt=\"tan pumpkin seed between the folds of brown construction paper\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the next stage, vines can be seen sprouting from the ground. When their first marker has been advanced to the end, students will receive green vines to glue in their pumpkin patch.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Pumpkin-Life-Cycle-Game-Phase-2.jpg\" alt=\"green foam vines on brown construction paper\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBefore becoming a pumpkin, the vines form blossoms. When their second marker has been advanced to the end, students will receive a yellow and white blossom to place on their pumpkin vine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Pumpkin-Life-Cycle-Game-Phase-3.jpg\" alt=\"yellow and white blossom on green vines on brown construction paper\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the last stage of growth, pumpkins are formed! When students advance their last marker to the end they'll receive a full grown pumpkin to place in their patch.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Pumpkin-Life-Cycle-Game-Phase-4.jpg\" alt=\"orange pumpkin on green vines on brown construction paper\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe first player to advance all their markers to the end and \"grow\" a pumpkin wins the game! Not only will your students learn about the pumpkin life cycle, they'll have a blast doing it!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734093209625,"sku":"A3711","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Pumpkin-Life-Cycle-Game-Board-e1288124847911.jpg?v=1522781629"},{"product_id":"maps-in-kindergarten-rosie-s-walk-a2897","title":"Maps in Kindergarten: Rosie’s Walk","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-190\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Map.jpg\" alt=\"map and keys\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: Steven Husk\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEven in the age of GPS and MapQuest, it's important for your students to orient themselves with maps as well as practice giving and following directions. Patricia Bentham, creator of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.kindergarten-lessons.com\/kindergarten_maps.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eKindergarten-Lessons\u003c\/a\u003e, suggests using Pat Hutchins' \u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eRosie's Walk\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e to introduce classroom map activities.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eLesson Objectives\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAssess what students already know about maps (i.e. why they're important, what they're used for, types, etc.).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroduce and practice the concept of sequencing.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLearn about the concept of viewpoint.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLearn how to create a map.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLesson Activities\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable id=\"wp-table-reloaded-id-2-no-1\" class=\"wp-table-reloaded wp-table-reloaded-id-2\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"row-1\"\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"column-1\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Kindergarten-Lesson-Plans-Table-Number-1.jpg\" alt=\"1\" title=\"Kindergarten Lesson Plans Table Number 1\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-177\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"column-2\"\u003eBentham suggests introducing the concepts of sequencing and mapmaking by having students create a story map. Provide students with a piece of card stock and walk them through creating a map of the barnyard including the important landmarks that Rosie visited on her walk. Students can design landmarks with graphic art tools, construction cutouts, etc. When finished help students re-tell the story using their maps.\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\/Kindergarten-Lesson-Plans-Table-Number-2.jpg\" alt=\"2\" title=\"Kindergarten Lesson Plans Table Number 2\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-178\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"column-2\"\u003eTo learn about viewpoints, Bentham suggests designing a fun, hands-on exercise. Using blocks from the classroom play center, she suggests creating a small village with several buildings. Equipped with crayons and a small blank booklet, have your students observe and draw the 'village' from different viewpoints (i.e. from the side, from the top, etc.). Have them predict which viewpoint \u003cem\u003ereal\u003c\/em\u003e maps are drawn from then show them several maps of your area as you discuss the topic further.\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\/Kindergarten-Lesson-Plans-Table-Number-3.jpg\" alt=\"3\" title=\"Kindergarten Lesson Plans Table Number 3\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-179\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"column-2\"\u003eTo further strengthen student mapmaking skills and introduce map functions, consider dividing the classroom into small sections. Assign a section to each student, inviting them to observe and draw what they see (adding labels if they can). When finished, assemble each child's drawing to create a large map of the room. Examine the map as a class, determining whether a new student or parent would be able to navigate the classroom and find each important center, station, etc. Ask students whether there are any details they should add by asking them about the map's functionality (i.e. will a new student know where to place completed classwork, how to sign in every morning, where to hang their coat, etc.).\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"row-4\"\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"column-1\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Kindergarten-Lesson-Plans-Table-Number-4.jpg\" alt=\"4\" title=\"Kindergarten Lesson Plans Table Number 4\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-180\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"column-2\"\u003eCreate a slideshow of the different types of maps (i.e. physical, topographic, etc.). Discuss how each is used and have your students brainstorm why each is important.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the end of the lesson, students should have a pretty good grasp of how maps are used, why they're important, and how to make their own! For helpful lesson pictures and greater activity detail, be sure to read Bentham's full post!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734093373465,"sku":"A2897","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Map.jpg?v=1522781630"},{"product_id":"maps-in-kindergarten-creative-writing-amp-mapmaking-a2898","title":"Maps in Kindergarten: Creative Writing \u0026 Mapmaking","description":"\u003cp\u003ePat Hutchins' \u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eRosie's Walk\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e provides a great introduction to maps in your kindergarten classroom. It \u003cem\u003ealso\u003c\/em\u003e inspires several wonderful projects to help strengthen your students' creative writing, sequencing, and mapmaking skills.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCreative Writing \u0026amp; Mapmaking As A Class\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInvite your students to create a story together. Provide them with two settings - the playground or the park - and have them vote on which \u003cem\u003eadventure\u003c\/em\u003e they would like to go on. Armed with a camera (to take pictures of your students acting out each phrase), head outside and \"write\" a new story:\n\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/cdn.tristro.net\/uploads\/ideas\/post\/Kindergarten-Walk.jpg\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-197\" alt=\"park and playground story examples\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Kindergarten-Walk.jpg\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\nAfter reviewing the story, have students create a story map. With a piece of card stock and graphic art tools or construction paper cutouts, invite students to design a map of the playground or park, including the important story landmarks. Have them trace a path through the map, denoting the order in which each place was visited.\n\n\u003cstrong\u003eIndividual Creative Writing \u0026amp; Mapmaking\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn a manner similar to Hutchins' book, have students (with the help of an adult) detail their morning route to school.\n\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/cdn.tristro.net\/uploads\/ideas\/post\/Individual-Writing-Project.jpg\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-201\" alt=\"example individual writing project\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Individual-Writing-Project.jpg\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\nAlso have them create a story map like the example below.\n\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/cdn.tristro.net\/uploads\/ideas\/post\/Individual-Mapmaking-Project.jpg\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-202\" alt=\"story map including a bus house pothole railroad crossing sign bridge library and school house\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Individual-Mapmaking-Project.jpg\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\nYour students will have a blast as they brush up on their writing, sequencing, and mapmaking skills!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734093504537,"sku":"A2898","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Kindergarten-Walk.jpg?v=1522781630"},{"product_id":"careers-pilots-a3714","title":"Careers: Pilots","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-198\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Airplane-JCVStock.jpg\" alt=\"passenger aircraft taking off\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: JCVStock\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNovember is national aviation month and what better way to introduce a unit on air transportation than to teach your preschoolers about the duties and responsibilities of a pilot.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat Does A Pilot Do?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlways begin each new lesson with an attention-grabbing introduction. Consider transforming the classroom into a small jet (e.g. push the desks out of the way and line up desk chairs in two long rows with an aisle in between - in one row form groupings of two chairs and in the other create groupings of three chairs. Label each different row of chairs, as well as each seat, and fashion fake 'seat belts' for students to secure as they board.) As students enter the classroom, provide them with a ticket and, after stowing any 'carry-on items' in their desk, help them find their assigned seat. You might also consider donning a pilot uniform (at least wearing a hat and pilot 'wings') as you introduce the duties and responsibilities of an airline pilot, what they wear, how high they fly, and other details about the 'plane'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCreative Expression\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHelp your students learn about aviation through crafts, pretend play, and music:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHave your students pretend that they're flying in a real airplane. Armed with sketchbooks and graphic art tools, invite your students to draw the sky and ground as it might look from the window of the plane.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFor use during free play, transform the pretend corner to look like the inside of a plane. Include a mock-up of the cockpit as well as passenger seating.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTeach your students several new songs about aviation. Consider Barney's \"The Airplane Song\" or any of the selection of songs featured at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.preschooleducation.com\/sair.shtml\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ePreschool Education\u003c\/a\u003e. There are several with added motions that your students are sure to enjoy!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-197\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Styrofoam-Airplane.jpg\" alt=\"model airplane made from stryofoam pieces\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMake A List...Check It Twice\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSounds like Santa, right? In reality, to keep passengers safe during travel, pilots are responsible for numerous flight checks where they verify that the instruments, controls, engines, and other flight systems on their craft are functioning the way they should, checking off each flight system as they finish inspection. To properly perform this task, pilots must be observant, knowledgeable of their craft, and excel at performing step-by-step processes. To help your preschoolers learn these same skills, set up a mock 'flight check' exercise. Present them with a completed Styrofoam airplane (you can find a craft template \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/familycrafts.about.com\/od\/airtransportation\/a\/styrofoamairplane.htm\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e - you'll just need to create a smaller foam piece to attach to the tail as the picture shows above). Have them observe the shape of each piece as well as how each part fits together. Create and display four different plane models around the classroom. On three of the four models, 'mistakenly' attach a part wrong (e.g. install the body of the plane upside down, attach the wings severely off center, bend the tail down, etc.). The fourth model should be 'flight ready'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eArmed with a clip board and a simple flight check sheet for each model, invite students to inspect each model and decide whether the plane should be approved for flight.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-196\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Flight-Check-Form.jpg\" alt=\"example lesson worksheet where students perform a sample flight check\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter the exercise, have your students design and assemble their own Styrofoam airplane to take home and share with their families.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center\"\u003eWe hope you have fun introducing aviation month to your preschoolers!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734094028825,"sku":"A3714","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Airplane-JCVStock.jpg?v=1522781633"},{"product_id":"turkey-lurkey-color-match-file-folder-game-a3312","title":"Turkey Lurkey Color Match File Folder Game","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Turkey-Lurkey-Color-Match-File-Game.jpg\" alt=\"colorful turkeys\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: www.preschoolprintables.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProvide your students with some advanced matching fun with \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.preschoolprintables.com\/filefolder\/turkey\/filefolderturkey.shtml\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ePreschool Printables\u003c\/a\u003e' turkey lurkey color match file folder printable! Each different turkey features a multitude of shades and colors prompting your preschoolers to pay close attention as they match!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eActivity Objectives\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSharpen observation skills.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSharpen problem solving skills.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStrengthen visual perception and color recognition.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStrengthen concentration and focus.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWorksheet Applications\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse the printable as designed, preparing two sets of turkey cards, pasting one set to the inside of a file folder (creating a game board of sorts), and having students match the second set of turkey cards to their corresponding place on the \"game board\".\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCreate two sets of laminated turkey cards with which to play a memory matching game. Students can be invited to place the cards face down on a flat surface and flip over pairs in the hopes of making color matches.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCreate two sets of laminated turkey cards. Use them to complete simple patterning exercises. {NOTE: Even though the patterns remain simple - AB\u003cem\u003eAB\u003c\/em\u003e or ABC\u003cem\u003eABC\u003c\/em\u003e - the various color combinations on the turkey cards will necessitate focus.]\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCreate one set of laminated turkey cards. Use a black permanent marker to script a number on each turkey - one through eight. With colored pom poms, small circle stickers, or even cards with dots on them, have students match the appropriate number of counters to the turkeys.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisit Preschool Printables for this and other excellent early childhood resources!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHappy Matching!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734095175705,"sku":"A3312","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Turkey-Lurkey-Color-Match-File-Game.jpg?v=1522781641"},{"product_id":"the-science-of-magnets-a2905","title":"The Science of Magnets","description":"\u003cfigure\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/197915236.jpg\" alt=\"Magnet Toys - 1.jpg\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ephoto © 2006 \u003ca title=\"click to visit the Flickr profile page for Windell Oskay\" href=\"http:\/\/www.flickr.com\/people\/17425845@N00\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eWindell Oskay\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo children, \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.supplyme.com\/collections\/topic-magnetism\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003emagnets\u003c\/a\u003e can seem like magic! Capitalize on some of that wonder with an engaging \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.supplyme.com\/collections\/subject-science\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003escience\u003c\/a\u003e lesson about magnetism and magnets.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIntroduction \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJust like other key science concepts - gravity, electricity, motion, etc. - there are still many things that scientists don't know about magnets and magnetism. What they \u003cem\u003ehave\u003c\/em\u003e uncovered is a product of much experimentation and exploration; in essence, the properties of magnetism have been discovered by hands-on investigation. What better way to start the unit than to provide students with the opportunity to do the same?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eProvide each student (or group of students) with two magnets and ask them to describe how the two interact. Make a list of observations.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroduce and discuss important vocabulary including poles, attract, and repel.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDefine what a magnet is and why certain things are attracted\/repelled. \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.kidskonnect.com\/subject-index\/15-science\/90-magnets.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eKidsKonnect.com's\u003c\/a\u003e background information on magnets is a great resource for this part of the lesson.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eProvide a complete list of known properties of magnets (in terms your students will understand and with demonstrations when possible). \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.coolmagnetman.com\/maghow.htm\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eCool Magnet Man\u003c\/a\u003e provides a list of magnet basics that can be adapted for use. Keep your students' list of observations handy in order to show them how, with simple experimentation, they discovered some of the same principles.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAn Extension: Fun with Animals \u0026amp; Magnets\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs an extension of the lesson, make a fun homemade play set with magnets! Inspired by an article in \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/familyfun.go.com\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eDisney's FamilyFun\u003c\/a\u003e magazine, here's an adapted supply list:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSupplies You'll Need\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCardboard gift box (at the very least you'll need a sweater box) - you'll only need the top or bottom portion\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStrong \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.supplyme.com\/products\/ceramic-disc-magnets-large-15928\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edisc magnets\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMarker cap (the cap from an old \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.supplyme.com\/products\/crayola-markers-12-count-assorted-colors-conical-tip-25663\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCrayola® marker\u003c\/a\u003e will work perfectly)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.supplyme.com\/products\/art-yarn-bright-colors-assortment-10-strands-50-1704\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eArt yarn\u003c\/a\u003e or string\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEmpty thread spools\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlastic toy animals (like this \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.supplyme.com\/pages\/search-results-page?q=plastic+animals\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003ejumbo animals themed set\u003c\/a\u003e) and other box decorations\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInstructions:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTake half of the cardboard gift box and \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.supplyme.com\/collections\/art-glue-and-adhesives\/products\/elmers-school-glue-1-1-4-oz-bottle-4841\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eglue\u003c\/a\u003e an empty spool to each corner - creating a \"platform\" of sorts.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAs the platform dries, take the marker cap (filling the small tube with glue) and attach a strong disc magnet to the end. Hold firmly for several seconds then set aside to dry.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChoose several plastic toy animals - you could go with a zoo, jungle, safari, desert, etc. theme - gluing a disc magnet to the bottom of each. [NOTE: Make \u003cem\u003esure\u003c\/em\u003e to coordinate the poles of the animals with the exposed magnet pole on the marker cap. If the marker cap magnet's \u003cem\u003esouth pole\u003c\/em\u003e is exposed, make sure the \u003cem\u003enorth pole\u003c\/em\u003e on the animals is facing out and vice versa. The goal is for the magnets to \u003cem\u003eattract\u003c\/em\u003e - meaning that \u003cem\u003eopposite poles\u003c\/em\u003e must be showing.]\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAs the glue dries, create an animal habitat within the box. FamilyFun designed a desert theme, including sand and rocks, and offered several desert animals to play with. You can design whatever them you like - as simple or as complicated as you'd like. If you're up to the challenge, you might even create a zoo with separate habitats\/homes for each animal!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCut a long piece of yarn or string, tying one end to a spool on the habitat box and the other to the magnetic marker cap.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlace the animals inside the box lid. To use, have students maneuver the marker cap magnet under the box lid (hence the need for the spool \"platform\"). The magnetic field will penetrate the thin gift box, attracting the nearest animal magnet. Students will the be able to move the marker cap underneath the box and watch the animals move around their habitat - almost like magic!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis project is great for continued play and for incorporating lesson concepts into the classroom!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734097633305,"sku":"A2905","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/197915236.jpg?v=1522781655"},{"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":"winter-themed-multi-skill-worksheets-a3328","title":"Winter Themed Multi-Skill Worksheets","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Winter-Snowman-Clip-Art.jpg\" alt=\"snowman clip art\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe just \u003cstrong\u003elove\u003c\/strong\u003e when our favorite worksheet creators design series' of themed printables that incorporate multiple skills and concepts! \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.allkidsnetwork.com\/worksheets\/winter\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eAll Kids Network\u003c\/a\u003e offers a wonderful winter themed worksheet set that will help your preschoolers practice everything from matching and counting to writing skills and same\/different relationships. The best part is, because the printables are not tied to a specific holiday, you won't have to rush to use them before Christmas break. You have all winter to incorporate these little gems into your lesson plans!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHere's a look at a few of our favorite worksheets:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\n\t \u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Winter-Counting-Worksheet.jpg\" alt=\"winter counting preschool printable\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: All Kids Network\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCounting Practice.\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe ability to count and recognize numbers are important building blocks to future math success. What we like about this worksheet is that, like word problems that offer more information than necessary and have to be analyzed for \u003cem\u003erelevant\u003c\/em\u003e information, students are given a grouping of objects out of which they have to select the correct number. In some problems they select all of the objects, and in others they must select only a few.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\n\t \u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Winter-Different-Worksheet.jpg\" alt=\"find the winter object that is different preschool printable\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: All Kids Network\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eDifferent.\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePreschool is a great time to develop differentiation skills - big\/little, tall\/short, same\/different, etc. This worksheet has preschoolers look at a group of objects and find which one doesn't belong. Because each grouping contains the same \u003cem\u003etype\u003c\/em\u003e of object, students must observe individual object details (i.e. color, style, etc.) in order to find which one is different.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\n\t \u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Winter-Same-Worksheet.jpg\" alt=\"chose the winter object that is the same preschool printable\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: All Kids Network\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSame.\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOpposite to the concept above, with this worksheet, students will practice finding objects that are the same. Instead of starting with a group of items, students are given one object then are charged with the task choosing its match from the selection of objects beside it. Once again, the objects are the same type, so students must observe item details to make the match.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile your preschoolers my only be able to recognize letters and not the words as a whole, this handwriting worksheet offers great fine motor practice and exposure to both new vocabulary words and the concept of word formation (e.g. words are just letters strung together). Additionally, students will begin to differentiate between drawing and writing, as writing uses purposeful strokes and directional movement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\n\t \u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Winter-Handwriting-Practice.jpg\" alt=\"winter handwriting preschool printable\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: All Kids Network\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\n\t \u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Winter-Picture-Matching.jpg\" alt=\"match winter objects preschool printable\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: All Kids Network\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eMatching.\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis worksheet offers another way to help students distinguish like objects from a group. It's also a great way to introduce the importance of order in problem solving - for example invite students to use the following process when completing the worksheet:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBegin with the object at the top of the first column. Observe the object details.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThen, starting at the top of the second column, use your finger to scroll down the page, stopping at each object and comparing it to the one in the first column before moving to the next.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhen a match is found, draw a line between the two items.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eContinue with the second object in the first column. Observe the details.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOnce again, starting at the top of the second column, look at each item in turn to find the match.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHaving an ordered approach, even in the simple exercises, will strengthen their problem solving skills now and in the future!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe hope you enjoy these winter selections from All Kids Network! Be sure to visit their site for the download and for a heap of other great early childhood printables!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHappy Learning!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg 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":1734100484121,"sku":"A3328","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Winter-Snowman-Clip-Art.jpg?v=1522781673"},{"product_id":"the-science-of-snow-a2910","title":"The Science of Snow","description":"\u003cfigure\u003e\n    \u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/2322517542.jpg\" alt=\"STOP Snowing!\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003e\n\t\tphoto © 2008 \n        \u003ca title=\"click to visit the Flickr profile page for John Talbot\" href=\"http:\/\/www.flickr.com\/people\/20683202@N00\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eJohn Talbot\u003c\/a\u003e | \n        \u003ca title=\"get more information about the photo 'STOP Snowing!'\" href=\"http:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/20683202@N00\/2322517542\" 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\u003eAs the seasons change, use the cold weather to your advantage by introducing your kindergartners to the science of snow! Here are several lesson ideas to use this winter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasuring Snowfall\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you live in a state that gets a lot of snow (and snowstorms!), keep tabs on the weather so that you can take advantage of this great science and math activity when the next storm hits (that is, if it doesn't cause a snow day!). Here's the idea:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVisit Weather.com or your local news station's website for the snow forecast to find out how much snowfall is expected.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHave students make predictions on whether the actual amount of snow will be the same, more, or less than the amount forecasted.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKeep a classroom tally of student predictions. Discuss how simple, columned charts make it easy to organize data for further use. Invite students to compare the tallies in each column using terms like most, least, more than, less than, etc.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eProvide students with a container to place in a secure location outside for collecting and measuring the amount of snowfall. [NOTE: Make sure the container has a flat bottom.]\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAfter the storm, bring the container inside and measure the results, comparing it to both the forecast and predictions.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs an extension (and more science fun), let the collected snow melt and measure the amount of liquid left. Is it more or less than the snow in its solid form? Discuss with your students the basics of the water cycle and how snow is created.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFun with Snow Crystals\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAmaze your kindergartners with an up close look at snow crystals!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003ePreparation for the activity\u003c\/em\u003e. Begin by explaining that snow is actually made up of billions (and actually many many more!) of tiny crystals. Search online for pictures of magnified snowflakes, creating a slideshow of the different shapes and structures to show your students what to expect during the activity. Then, arming your students with magnifying glasses, practice proper viewing technique on small classroom objects. While they may have used one before, don't take for granted that your students will actually know how to hold it and manipulate the size of the object being viewed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSnow crystal activity. Place a stack of black construction paper into the freezer, keeping the paper there until it begins to snow and you're ready to go outside. The cold paper will \"preserve\" the snow crystals long enough for students to investigate (i.e. the flakes won't melt as fast on the chilly surface). Once outside, invite students to catch snowflakes on the black paper and use their magnifying glasses to view the crystals noting any patterns, symmetry, and structural components (as much as they can!). Your kindergartners will be amazed at this wonder of nature!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile winter can seem to drag on and on, take advantage of the many math and science learning opportunities the cold weather brings!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734100647961,"sku":"A2910","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/2322517542.jpg?v=1522781674"},{"product_id":"does-it-roll-does-it-slide-a3733","title":"Does It Roll? Does It Slide?","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\n    \u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/154525022.jpg\" alt=\"Ian the Science Guy\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto © 2006 \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.flickr.com\/people\/99247795@N00\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eRichard Masoner\u003c\/a\u003e | \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/99247795@N00\/154525022\" 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\u003eMany preschool teachers shy away from science lessons for fear that they might be too hard to comprehend, too complex to complete in a short amount of time, too messy, or too [\u003cem\u003efill in the blank\u003c\/em\u003e]. In reality, preschool science lessons should simply introduce your students to the world around them and all it has to offer. Nothing complicated. Nothing too scientific. Just an appreciation for their surroundings, encouragement in creative thought, and encouragement to ask questions as well as explore for answers. Here are two great (very similar) science lessons to do with your kiddos when you're stuck inside this winter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\n\u003cp\u003ePhilippa, mother and creator of the site House of Baby Piranha, suggests setting up a wooden ramp and inviting your youngsters to test the rolling capacity of objects from around the classroom. Add a math component by providing students with simple charts (like the one below) to record results. [NOTE: It might be nice to add a picture of the item to the chart also.] When finished, create a bar graph showing the number of objects that rolled in comparison to the number that did not. You might also consider having students make predictions before the objects are tested, keeping a classroom tally, then comparing the expected results to the actual results.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDoes It Roll?\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eToy Car\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlastic Animal\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRoll of Tape\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlastic Egg\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCrayon\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSquare Block\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCork\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBall\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.houseofbabypiranha.com\/2011\/01\/we-play-does-it-roll.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eHouse of Baby Piranha: We Play - Does It Roll?\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis lesson by Jenae of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.icanteachmychild.com\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eI Can Teach My Child\u003c\/a\u003e will have your students exploring whether or not objects from the classroom will slide down a cookie sheet of ice. Perfect for winter, students will love collecting items and taking turns testing them. As with the experiment above, provide students with simple charts, inviting them to draw a picture of each item being tested, then record the results. Once again, consider having students make predictions before experimentation begins. At the conclusion of the experiment (or before!), Jenae recommends reading \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTacky the Penguin\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e by Helen Lester - about a penguin who loves to slide on the ice!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734101008409,"sku":"A3733","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/154525022.jpg?v=1522781676"},{"product_id":"fun-snow-themed-activities-a3734","title":"Fun Snow-Themed Activities","description":"\u003cfigure\u003e\n    \u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/4220305913.jpg\" alt=\"West Virginia Gristmill Waterfall Winter Snow\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003e\n\t\tphoto © 2009 \n        \u003ca title=\"click to visit the Flickr profile page for Forest Wander\" href=\"http:\/\/www.flickr.com\/people\/10922353@N03\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eForest Wander\u003c\/a\u003e | \n        \u003ca title=\"get more information about the photo 'West Virginia Gristmill Waterfall Winter Snow'\" href=\"http:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/10922353@N03\/4220305913\" 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's hard to believe - especially after the holidays have come and gone - that there are \u003cem\u003ethree\u003c\/em\u003e more months of winter! For many teachers, the very thought of twelve more weeks being cooped up in the classroom can cause restlessness (and a slight panic, if the truth be told!). The creators of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.perfectlypreschool.com\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ePerfectly Preschool\u003c\/a\u003e recommend taking advantage of the winter months for some seasonally appropriate lessons and here are a few of their snow-themed suggestions!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMath \u0026amp; Science\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBuild Snow People. This activity will help your preschoolers strengthen shape recognition and following directions. Perfectly Preschool suggests cutting shapes from felt and having teams of students work together to construct the snow person. You might also consider using the adorable build your own snowman printables from \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/familyfun.go.com\/printables\/build-your-own-snowman-snowman-scene-703984\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eFamilyFun\u003c\/a\u003e or, add in some dice rolling, counting, and number recognition fun with \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.littlegiraffes.com\/winter.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eLittle Giraffes Teaching Ideas\u003c\/a\u003e roll-a-snowman activity!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSnowman Size Sequencing. Provide students with snowman cutouts of different sizes and invite them to order them smallest to largest, largest to smallest, etc.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMeasure the Snowfall. \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/ideas\/2910\/the-science-of-snow\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eThis Science of Snow activity\u003c\/a\u003e should still fit the skill and age level of your preschoolers.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExamine Ice Crystals. Perfectly Preschool recommends creating your own ice crystals with a blender and viewing them inside the classroom. You might also consider doing an outside activity like \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/ideas\/2910\/the-science-of-snow\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ethis one\u003c\/a\u003e. Again, the lesson (if tailored just a bit) will certainly be age appropriate.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLanguage \u0026amp; Literature\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConsider using the size sequencing snowman cutouts (used in the math activity above) to create an interactive emergent reader.\u003cimg class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-445\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Snowman-Sizes-Interactive-Emergent-Reader1.jpg\" alt=\"example snowman themed interactive emergent reader book about sizes\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003eOther pages might include: \"This snowman is \u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline\"\u003esmaller than\u003c\/span\u003e this snowman.\", \"This snowman is \u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline\"\u003elarger than\u003c\/span\u003e this snowman.\", etc. If you don't feel like making your own, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/makinglearningfun.com\/themepages\/SnowSnowmanEmergentReaders.htm\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eMaking Learning Fun\u003c\/a\u003e has several snow\/snowman themed emergent reader books to print and color too!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDesign snowman alphabet cards (both upper and lowercase letters) and play a game of memory or matching.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eSuggested Children's Literature Selections\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHello, Snow!\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e by Hope Vestergaard.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEmmett's Snowball\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e by Ned Miller.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrozen Noses\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e by Jan Carr.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThere Was A Cold Lady Who Swallowed Some Snow\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e by Lucille Colandro.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFirst Snow\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e by Emily Arnold McCully.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSnowballs\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e by Lois Ehlert.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Snowman\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e by Raymond Briggs.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Friendly Snowman\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e by Sharon Gordon.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese are just a few activities to get you started, but be sure to check out Perfectly Preschool's full \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.perfectlypreschool.com\/Preschool-Lesson-Plans\/Snow\/index.php\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003esnow lesson plan\u003c\/a\u003e, as well as The Virtual Vine's \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.thevirtualvine.com\/snowman.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003esnowman unit\u003c\/a\u003e for more reading selections, fingerplays, songs, crafts, and activities for your preschool snow unit!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734101205017,"sku":"A3734","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/4220305913.jpg?v=1522781677"},{"product_id":"astronaut-preschool-skill-worksheets-a3332","title":"Astronaut Preschool Skill Worksheets","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-full wp-image-526 \" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Astronaut-Preschool-Pack.jpg\" alt=\"astronaut clip art\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: homeschoolcreations.blogspot.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJolanthe, homeschool mom and creator of the site Homeschool Creations, recently began a new space thematic unit with her kiddos and had the grace to share her \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/homeschoolcreations.blogspot.com\/2011\/01\/astronaut-preschool-pack.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eAstronaut Preschool Pack\u003c\/a\u003e with the rest of us fortunate souls! Get geared up for some 'far out' learning as we give you a sneak peek at a few of our favorite space themed printables!\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eAstronaut Preschool Pack\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAstronaut Vocabulary Flash Cards\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\n\t \u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/HC-Astronaut-Vocab-Cards.jpg\" alt=\"space themed vocabulary cards\" class=\"featured\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: Homeschool Creations\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot only will your preschoolers learn new unit vocabulary words, these fun flash cards can be used for many other activities as well:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHave students practice letter recognition and ordering by putting the flash cards in alphabetical order.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePrint and laminate two sets of flash cards for memory and matching exercises.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInvite students to trace the vocabulary word at the bottom of each card for fine motor, letter, and handwriting practice.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe possibilities are endless!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eRocket Size Sequencing\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cfigure\u003e\n\t \u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/HC-Astronaut-Size-Sequencing.jpg\" alt=\"red clip art rockets of different sizes\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: Homeschool Creations\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHelp your preschoolers differentiate between small-, medium-, and large-sized objects with this fun sequencing exercise. Perfect for discussing terms like \"largest\", \"smallest\", \"larger than\", \"smaller than\", etc.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConsider using the rocket cutouts to create an interactive emergent reader like this \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/ideas\/3734\/fun-snow-themed-activities\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003esnowman example\u003c\/a\u003e. As students complete the pages, they'll have to problem solve where to use each cutout so that the pages make sense (an added bonus!).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSpace Silhouette Matching\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cfigure\u003e\n\t \u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/HC-Astronaut-Silhouette-Matching.jpg\" alt=\"space themed shadow matching game\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: Homeschool Creations\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLike regular matching games, your preschoolers will be required to make observations, pay attention to detail, and identify like objects in this activity. The silhouettes add additional complexity to the exercise, forcing students to rely on shapes rather than other, more noticeable colors and details. A great problem solving activity!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eRocket Scissor Skills\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cfigure\u003e\n\t \u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/HC-Astronaut-Scissor-Skills.jpg\" alt=\"rocket themed scissor skill worksheet\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: Homeschool Creations\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJolanthe provides two scissor skill worksheet variations so your students will get plenty of practice! Consider printing the worksheet onto different types of paper (i.e different thicknesses, different textures, etc.). This will help strengthen student hand muscles as well as fine motor skills.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBonus:\u003c\/strong\u003e Print and laminate worksheets. Provide students with dry erase crayons and invite them to do some pre-writing practice by tracing the lines!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eRocket Color Review\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cfigure\u003e\n\t \u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/HC-Astronaut-Color-Recognition.jpg\" alt=\"rocket themed color cards\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: Homeschool Creations\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot only will students practice color and color \u003cem\u003eword\u003c\/em\u003e recognition with these adorable printables, they're just as versatile as the vocabulary flash cards. Here are some great exercise ideas:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInvite students to trace the color words for printing practice.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHave students review letters and the concept of ordering by placing the color cards in alphabetical order.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCreate an interactive emergent reader color book (like the example below) that students can read over and over. On the first page they can glue the colored rocket and on the opposite page they can glue objects of the same color found around the classroom (i.e. a button, a pom pon, a magazine clipping, etc.)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Rocket-Color-Book-Interactive-Emergent-Reader-1.jpg\" alt=\"example rocket themed interactive emergent reader color book\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Rocket-Color-Book-Interactive-Emergent-Reader-2.jpg\" alt=\"example rocket themed interactive emergent reader color book\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese selections don't even make up \u003cem\u003ehalf\u003c\/em\u003e of the activities in Jolanthe's Astronaut Preschool Pack so be sure to check out her full post for the download!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHappy Learning!\n\u003cimg 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":1734101270553,"sku":"A3332","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/HC-Astronaut-Vocab-Cards.jpg?v=1522781677"},{"product_id":"valentines-day-science-activities-a3739","title":"Valentine's Day Science Activities","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/magnetic-wands.jpg\" alt=\"magnetic wands\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMagnetic Attraction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eValentine's Day is all about love, romance, and \u003cem\u003eattraction\u003c\/em\u003e. Mackie Rhodes of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www2.scholastic.com\/browse\/article.jsp?id=8117\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eScholastic\u003c\/a\u003e suggests you bring that very idea into the classroom (well, a version of it at least!) by exploring the attraction between magnets! Create two large hearts from red bulletin board paper labeling one \"Magnetic\" and the other \"Nonmagnetic\", then invite your students to go on a scavenger hunt around the classroom to find an object they think will fit in each category. Have your students place their objects on the proper heart. Have students test the objects using magnetic wands and discuss the results.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eColored Roses\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince traditional Valentine's Day gifts are flowers and chocolates, teach your preschoolers a thing or two about a plant's vascular system (in less fancy terms of course!) by coloring white roses or carnations. Place the flower in a beaker of red water, then watch nature do the rest! Your students will be amazed at the transformation and the ability to see all the flower's tiny little veins. \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/ideas\/2803\/multicolored-flowers\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eHere's a great tutorial\u003c\/a\u003e for this project - be sure to check it out, as well as the multicolored flower option!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eExploring Taste \u0026amp; Smell\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCollect several types of traditional Valentine's Day candy (i.e. chocolate, conversation hearts, etc.). Blindfold your students and provide them with samples of each and, based on taste and smell, have them determine what each is. [NOTE: In this activity, you need to be very aware of any allergies, diet restrictions, etc. that your students may have. Send a note home to parents to ascertain any concerns or situations you should be aware of.]\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734102482969,"sku":"A3739","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/magnetic-wands.jpg?v=1522781685"},{"product_id":"groundhog-day-silhouette-amp-shadow-matching-a3336","title":"Groundhog Day Silhouette \u0026amp; Shadow Matching","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-full wp-image-643 \" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/SilhouetteShapes.jpg\" alt=\"silhouette shape matching activity\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: Confessions of a Homeschooler\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn Groundhog Day, we wait with baited breath to see if Punxsutawney Phil will see his shadow. This silhouette\/shadow shape matching game from Confessions of a Homeschooler would be the perfect activity for your preschoolers this February 2nd - not only will they brush up on shape and color recognition, they'll get into the spirit of the day as they make observations and problem solve using silhouettes and shadows!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFind the printable over at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/confessionsofahomeschooler.blogspot.com\/2010\/05\/prek-numbers-shapes-colors-review.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eConfessions of a Homeschooler\u003c\/a\u003e! [NOTE: The original worksheets do not offer a black and white \"shadow\" version of the activity. Trace the shapes onto black construction paper or use computer software to fill the shapes before printing and using if you desire to extend the activity.]\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHappy Matching!\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":1734102515737,"sku":"A3336","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/SilhouetteShapes.jpg?v=1522781685"},{"product_id":"will-it-sink-or-float-printable-activity-mats-a3337","title":"\"Will It Sink or Float?\" - Printable Activity Mats","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-652 \" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/SinkFloatActivity.jpg\" alt=\"sink float preschool printable activity mats\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: www.hsprintables.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe found these sink\/float science activity mats at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.spelloutloud.com\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eSpell Outloud\u003c\/a\u003e and had to share! A perfect activity for the coming spring months, all you need to do is print the mats, place them into plastic document protectors, and collect objects from around the classroom to test and sort.\n\n\u003cstrong\u003eCompleting the Activity\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBegin with a few objects, but allow your students to \"go on a treasure hunt\" collecting a few of their own items to test.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHave students make predictions about each object.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTest each object - placing the items on the appropriate activity mat.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhen finished have students count the number of objects on each mat and compare.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInvite your students to discuss why they think an object behaved a particular way - talk about weight, composition, etc.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e[NOTE: If this is an individual science exploration, along with the other applications, students will also be able to practice their handwriting skills by tracing the words on the bottom of each activity mat with a dry erase crayon!]\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo download the activity mats be sure to visit Spell Outloud! The printable documents can be found under Maureen's \"D is for Ducks\" thematic unit!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHappy Splashing!\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":1734103203865,"sku":"A3337","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/SinkFloatActivity.jpg?v=1522781689"},{"product_id":"making-weather-charts-a2288","title":"Making Weather Charts!","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/blissfullydomestic.com\/2009\/weather-charts-for-preschoolers\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/weather_chart13.jpg\" alt=\"paper plate weather chart\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: Blissfully Domestic\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile you probably have a classroom version {i.e. dress Mr. Bear for the weather, \"Today the weather is...\" interactive chart, etc}, helping your students create a personal weather chart can be educational and quite fun! We found this simple paper plate clip chart at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/blissfullydomestic.com\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eBlissfully Domestic\u003c\/a\u003e and thought it would be a great fit, especially if you have younger 'weather watchers'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSupplies You'll Need\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePaper plate\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-63-construction-paper.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eConstruction paper\u003c\/a\u003e {or \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-21259-array-card-stock-classic-colors-100-count-85-x-11.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ecard stock\u003c\/a\u003e} in assorted colors\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCotton balls\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-248-glue-adhesives.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eElmer's® school glue\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-166-kids-scissors.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eScissors\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-337-large-spring-clothespins-natural-2-34.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eWooden spring clothespin\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-102-markers.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eCrayola® Markers\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-388-paper-punches.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ePaper punch\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-6543-art-yarn-neon.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eYarn\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAmy used die-cut shapes, but if you don't have access to a machine, create card stock templates of a sun, snowflake, umbrella, and arrow for your kiddos to trace onto pieces of construction paper or card stock. You might also consider finding a black and white clip art image to print directly onto the colored paper for students to cut out. Along with these shapes, provide your students with a paper plate, a clothespin, and three cotton balls. Before tackling the plate, have your students glue their arrow cutout to one side of the clothespin and set aside to dry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlate in hand, demonstrate how to measure and divide the surface into quarters - using a marker to trace the lines - then invite your students to paste the rest of their colored shapes onto the plate {one per section}. In the last section, have them fluff their cotton balls {pulling them apart ever so slightly} and glue them in a clump to create a cloud. Have them write or use typed sticky labels to label each section. Use the hole punch and yarn to string the crafts up if you desire.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEncourage your students to be 'weather watchers', updating their weather chart when they walk into class in the morning to prepare for the group session. Consider gluing a small graph to the back where students can keep a tally of how many days are sunny, rainy, snowy, or cloudy for future comparison and discussion. At the end of the year, you can even attempt to break the weather trends down by month for a visual representation of the weather in your region.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/blissfullydomestic.com\/2009\/weather-charts-for-preschoolers\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eWeather Charts for Preschoolers\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734105628697,"sku":"A2288","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/weather_chart13.jpg?v=1522781704"},{"product_id":"all-kinds-of-weather-matching-worksheet-a3351","title":"All Kinds of Weather Matching Worksheet","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-full wp-image-748 \" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/weathermatch.jpg\" alt=\"preschool weather matching printable worksheet\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: www.tlsbooks.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInvite your preschoolers to develop their critical thinking skills with this weather-themed worksheet from \u003ca target=\"blank\" href=\"http:\/\/www.tlsbooks.com\/preschoolthinkingskills.htm\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eTLS Books\u003c\/a\u003e - a fantastic site for free printables! Featuring black and white graphics {that just beg for you to get out the art box and add a bit of color!}, students must decide which weather condition the child(ren) in the picture are suited for. In some cases, the clothing choices are important (i.e. the raincoat and umbrella signify rain, etc.), while in other cases, your preschoolers must take into account the activity in which the figure is engaged (i.e. flying a kite signifies wind). This exercise offers your students a chance to explore relationship-building, hone observation skills, and strengthen problem solving skills.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWorksheet \u0026amp; Activity Considerations\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHave students use the images to begin a weather chart - paste a weather image in the header of each column, attach the appropriate\/matching picture in the column underneath, then find and paste pictures from old magazines, etc. that are relevant to each type of weather condition (i.e. an ice skater would be placed under \"Snowy\", a surfer would be glued under the heading \"Sunny\", etc.).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAfter completing the exercise, use the images as journal prompts each day (i.e. Have your students glue the sun clip art image to the top of their paper and write or dictate, \"When it's sunny, I like to __________.\" or \"When it's sunny, I wear __________.\"\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFor further practice, cut the images apart, glue them to blank index cards, and use them to play a simple memory game.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor the download, be sure to visit TLS Books! And, while you're there, don't forget to peruse the awesome selection of free printables they offer!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734105792537,"sku":"A3351","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/weathermatch.jpg?v=1522781705"},{"product_id":"patterning-caterpillars-patternpillars-a3758","title":"Patterning + Caterpillars = Patternpillars!","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-667 \" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/patternpillars.jpg\" alt=\"preschool animal theme patterning exercise and lesson plan\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: www.creativetots.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePatterning exercises help students strengthen observation skills, build problem solving skills, develop visual discrimination, and reinforce early math skills. We found this adorable animal-themed patterning exercise at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.creativetots.com\/blog\/patternpillars\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eCreative Tots\u003c\/a\u003e and thought it would provide your preschoolers the perfect introduction to patterns {although, your students will still love the activity even if they're already familiar with the concept!}. What do you get when you cross patterning with caterpillars? \u003cem\u003ePATTERNPILLARS!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eActivity Considerations\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhile the original project makes use of a simple AB\u003cem\u003eAB\u003c\/em\u003e pattern, if you feel your students are up to it, try more complicated patterns with more than two colors.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHave students create patternpillars based on pom pom \u003cem\u003esize\u003c\/em\u003e rather than color {i.e. big, little, \u003cem\u003ebig, little\u003c\/em\u003e or big, little, little, \u003cem\u003ebig, little, little\u003c\/em\u003e, etc.}.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eProvide students with both pom poms and spherical wooden beads {or another such material}, inviting them to determine patterns based on how the material feels - soft\/hard, fuzzy\/smooth, etc.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734107004953,"sku":"A3758","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/patternpillars.jpg?v=1522781713"},{"product_id":"digging-for-knowledge-soil-exploration-worksheet-a3358","title":"Digging for Knowledge: Soil Exploration Worksheet","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-783 \" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/soil-worksheet.jpg\" alt=\"exploring nature soil preschool printable\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: fabulousfish-stephanie.blogspot.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStephanie, first grade teacher and creator of the blog, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/fabulousfish-stephanie.blogspot.com\/2011\/03\/diggin-up-some-soil.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eFirst Grade Fabulous Fish\u003c\/a\u003e, designed this fantastic worksheet and soil exploration activity that's perfect for spring. While your preschoolers may need a bit more assistance with the experiment, this is still a fabulous exercise to complete as the weather gets warmer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSend a note home to parents asking them to help your students collect a sample of soil from their backyard. Practicing proper \"sample collection protocol\" by labeling it with the date, time, and location of the sample. Invite them to help their child draw a map of their yard, labeling important land features (i.e. ponds, trees, flower beds, etc.) and marking where the sample was taken.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBack in class, complete and examination of the soil using the worksheet as a guide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHelp your students pinch a sample of the soil and tape it to the paper and describe what it looks like to the naked eye - texture (sand, clay, silt, etc.) and color.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDumping a bit of their sample into a tray, provide students with a magnifying glass and have them look at it up close. Encourage them to look for variations in particle size, leaves, twigs, and other organic matter, drawing pictures of what they see in the space on the worksheet.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAfter examining their own samples, invite your preschoolers to look at the samples of three of their friends to see how they compare.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTake a look at the maps to see if there is any correlation between the composition of each student's sample and the area in which it came from.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile it may not be the \"in-depth\" experiment you imagine it to be, your preschoolers will certainly benefit from the hands-on exploration of nature - learning how to ask questions, use different scientific tools, making observations, and making comparisons.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/fabulousfish-stephanie.blogspot.com\/2011\/03\/soil-explorations.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eFirst Grade Fabulous Fish: Soil Explorations\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734107594777,"sku":"A3358","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/soil-worksheet.jpg?v=1522781715"},{"product_id":"a-garden-of-goodies-a3369","title":"A Garden of Goodies","description":"\u003cp\u003eWe found this next gardening unit full of free printable worksheets at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/lightningbuglit.com\/lets-share\/freebies\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eLightning Bug Literacy\u003c\/a\u003e and thought we'd share a few of our favorite exercises!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-862 \" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Flowers-1.jpg\" alt=\"spring garden flower life cycle preschool printable\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: lightningbuglit.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFlower Life Cycle.\u003c\/strong\u003e Teach your preschoolers about the life cycle of a plant - what it needs to grow, the proper vocabulary words {i.e. sprout, bud, etc.}, and what it looks like at each step - with this fun sequencing activity. To touch on the cyclical nature of life cycles, consider having your students use the cards to create a diagram on a piece of construction paper.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-863 \" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Flowers-2.jpg\" alt=\"spring garden flower counting preschool printable activity\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: lightningbuglit.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFlower Counting.\u003c\/strong\u003e Invite your kiddos to practice numeral recognition and counting with these fun, brightly colored flower cards. Complete ordering activities, having students place all the flower cards in the correct numerical sequence {both regular and skip counting}, and fine motor counting activities, inviting students to place the correct number of clothespins or other math manipulatives on the cards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-864 \" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Flowers-3.jpg\" alt=\"spring garden silhouette matching preschool printable worksheet\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: lightningbuglit.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSilhouette Matching.\u003c\/strong\u003e Use this silhouette matching game to start off the morning, as a transition between activities, or at the match center. As they search for the correct pairs, students will familiarize themselves with common garden objects, hone observation skills, and build problem solving skills.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-865 \" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Flowers-4.jpg\" alt=\"spring garden three part puzzle matching cards preschool printable\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: lightningbuglit.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e3-Part Vocabulary Cards.\u003c\/strong\u003e Invite your students to strengthen observation skills, problem solve, learn new vocabulary words, and hone visual discrimination skills with these three-part vocabulary\/puzzle cards of common gardening items. Students will have fun building each picture and associating the vocabulary words with the picture they describe. Start with two sets of cards - one whole and one cut apart - having students use the whole cards as a guide when matching the other pieces. As they get used to the exercise, take away the guide deck and test students' knowledge\/retention.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor more great gardening exercises and printables, be sure to visit the full post at Lightning Bug Literacy!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHappy Learning!\n\u003cimg class=\"alignnone 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":1734109233177,"sku":"A3369","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Flowers-1.jpg?v=1522781725"},{"product_id":"the-science-of-easter-a3771","title":"The Science of Easter!","description":"\u003cp\u003eIf you're looking for a fun science activity to explore with your preschoolers during the Easter season, we found some very unrelated, but still very cool projects for you to attempt!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-747 \" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/science-1.jpg\" alt=\"Spring Easter Gardening Science Preschool Lesson\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: science-at-home.org\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMake seedling Easter baskets like these from \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/science-at-home.org\/handmade-paper-with-seeds\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eScience@home\u003c\/a\u003e! The process is quite involved, but this activity can be a great precursor to your spring gardening\/botany unit. Use them as window or desk decorations through the holiday season, then find a warm moist place for them to grow and - voila! - a classroom garden!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-748 \" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/science-2.jpg\" alt=\"Spring Easter Egg Preschool Science Lesson\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: ourcraftsnthings.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHave some Easter fun with Humpty Dumpty the \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/ourcraftsnthings.com\/2011\/04\/science-sunday-eggs\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eOur Crafts ~N~ Things\u003c\/a\u003e way! Invite your kiddos to hypothesize what will happen if 'hard boiled Humpty' has a great fall. Hypothesize and compare the results of a fall by 'raw Humpty'. Next, invite your students to hold both a hard boiled egg and raw egg. Have them describe any similarities\/differences. As they observe, give them a closer look at the inside of both eggs. Once again, have them describe what they see - how it is the same and how it differs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-749 \" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/science-3.jpg\" alt=\"Spring Easter Preschool Science Lesson\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: casamarias.blogspot.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHave a flubber race like this one at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/casamarias.blogspot.com\/2011\/03\/greatest-flubber-race.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eCasa Maria's Creative Learning Zone\u003c\/a\u003e! Students will have a blast observing how differently the substance interacts with each container identifying variables like drip speed, string width, string length, etc. and making comparisons between the drippings and real world objects!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734109986841,"sku":"A3771","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/science-1_3f41d770-85c5-4b13-be65-0223c8fc10fd.jpg?v=1522781729"},{"product_id":"mystery-crayon-rubbings-can-you-guess-the-object-a2313","title":"Mystery Crayon Rubbings: Can You Guess the Object?","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-full wp-image-2683  \" title=\"crayon rubbing\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/crayon-rubbing.jpg\" alt=\"Preschool and Kindergarten Guess the Object Game\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: artfulparent.typepad.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJean, mother and creator of the blog, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/artfulparent.typepad.com\/artfulparent\/2011\/05\/crayon-rubbings-with-everyday-items.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eThe Artful Parent\u003c\/a\u003e, designed this fun crayon rubbing mystery game that would be perfect for use during craft time {to make a vibrant mural!}, as a transition between activities, or even as an exercise before the morning bell rings. With it, your students will explore cause and effect relationships, as well as build observation and problem solving skills.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo complete the activity, Jean suggests taping a long sheet of easel paper to a flat surface, then selecting and securing items from around the classroom for students to explore – a coin, a dress-up necklace, a pair of craft scissors, a wooden craft clothespin, wooden alphabet blocks, natural elements {leaves, pinecones, etc.}, and any other small items you can think of! Tape a second sheet of paper over the first and set out paper cups full of 'unwrapped' crayons. As your students use the colorful wax to uncover each object, have them try to guess what it is. The great thing about this exercise is that it's super versatile, easy to set up, and offers numerous variations.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734111100953,"sku":"A2313","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/crayon-rubbing.jpg?v=1522781736"},{"product_id":"nature-bingo-a3380","title":"Nature BINGO","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-1108\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Nature-Bingo.jpg\" alt=\"Spring Nature BINGO Game Preschool Printable\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: totallytots.blogspot.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLooking for an educational way to get outdoors and soak up the sun? Cindy, creator of the blog \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.gironlife.blogspot.com\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eAlong the Way\u003c\/a\u003e and featured contributor at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/totallytots.blogspot.com\/2011\/05\/touch-feel-learn-nature-bingo.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eTotally Tots\u003c\/a\u003e, found this simple BINGO game that will have your little explorers observing and learning about the world around them {all while breathing some much needed fresh air in the 'great outdoors'!}.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWorksheet Fun\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo begin, provide each of your students with a game board and a pencil {or a fun sheet of stickers!}. Cindy recommends playing one of two ways: 1) A student wins when they cross off three items in a row or 2) A student wins when they've crossed off all the items on their game board.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eSeveral considerations...\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf completing the activity with a larger group, adapt the original worksheet to create different versions of the game card to keep things interesting.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf the game card features natural elements that are not abundant in your area, replace them with more common items {or just use the game board as inspiration for creating your own game!}. Consider touring the school grounds to create a list of elements your kiddos are sure to come across.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGame Extension\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBack inside, invite your students to cut the game card apart and paste these images onto a page in their science journal as a heading for their entry. In each entry they might:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDraw and describe where they found the item.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEstimate how many items {i.e. acorns, bees, etc.} were at the location.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDraw a map that will help someone else find the item's location {including important landmarks, etc.}.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCreate a scientific drawing of the item.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDescribe where a classmate found the time {if they were unable to cross it off their list}.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eBe sure to visit Totally Tots for this fantastic download! While the feature was written and the activity completed by Cindy, we did want to mention that the worksheet was actually created by Jolanthe of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/homeschoolcreations.blogspot.com\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eHomeschool Creations\u003c\/a\u003e. :) \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734111690777,"sku":"A3380","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Nature-Bingo.jpg?v=1522781739"},{"product_id":"squeeze-paint-cross-curricular-crafting-a2318","title":"Squeeze Paint - Cross-Curricular Crafting!","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-2719\" title=\"IMG_5614\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/IMG_5614.jpg\" alt=\"Preschool Math and Science Painting Craft\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: www.playbasedlearning.com.au\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat do you get when you mix flour, salt, water, and food coloring? Squeeze paint - and a fantastic opportunity for cross-curricular learning and fun!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMath Component\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInvite your kiddos to make their own squeeze paint, following a 'recipe card' to measure out the appropriate ingredients {in the appropriate quantities} and mix them together.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFine Motor Skill Component\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHave your students strengthen hand muscles and hone coordination as they spoon the thick paint mixture into squeeze bottles and later squeeze the mixture out onto their art paper. It may be a bit messy at first, but your students are certain to get the hang of it!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArt Component\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEncourage your students to use an assortment of colors, explore different line types and thicknesses, and let the process inspire their creativity! While they may not be 'display case' material, your kiddos will have fun trying new art mediums and techniques!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eScience Component\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHave students use their five senses to compare the paint mixture before {thick, lumpy, etc.} and after {hard, slight sheen, etc.} it dries.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eWe found this fantastic activity at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.playbasedlearning.com.au\/2011\/05\/squeeze-paint\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eIrresistible Ideas for Play Based Learning\u003c\/a\u003e. While you're there getting the recipe for squeeze paint, be sure to stay awhile. Sherry and Donna have put together many fantastic learning exercises, activities, and crafts for the early childhood classroom!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734111887385,"sku":"A2318","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/IMG_5614.jpg?v=1522781740"},{"product_id":"spring-tree-study-math-science-outdoor-activity-a3780","title":"Spring Tree Study - Math \u0026 Science Outdoor Activity!","description":"\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cimg title=\"Spring-Tree-Study\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-944\" alt=\"Spring Nature Math and Science Preschool Lesson Plan\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Spring-Tree-Study.jpg\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGet outside and soak up the sun with this fantastic math and science activity from Nicole at One Hook Wonder. Armed with journal pages {like our examples}, a pencil, crayons, and a magnifying glass, send your students out for a tree study! Invite them to observe, describe, draw and\/or record the following:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDraw a picture of the tree.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDraw a map of the tree's location.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInclude a rubbing of the tree bark.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInclude a rubbing of one of the tree leaves.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMeasure the diameter of the tree.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMeasure the height of the tree {if possible!}\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDraw {or trace!} and describe the shape of the leaves.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDescribe the texture and color of the tree bark.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eConsider adding a few of these extensions to the lesson:\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInvite your kiddos to spend a few minutes observing the tree. Have them write down all the living things they see, drawing pictures of some of the animals {squirrels, spiders, etc}.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHave your students sit by the tree and listen. Ask them to write about what they hear in or near the tree {leaves fluttering, squirrels chattering, birds singing, branches moving, etc}.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInvite your students to use a magnifying glass to look more closely at the tree. Have them record any new observations about the tree, its bark and leaves, or the living things on\/around it.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCompare the diameters of the trees in the study. Have your kiddos order the samples from oldest to youngest, discussing how the diameter of the tree is indicative of age.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Digital Download","offer_id":1734112051225,"sku":"A3780","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Spring-Tree-Study.jpg?v=1522781742"},{"product_id":"fantastic-flower-fun-a3782","title":"Fantastic - Flower FUN!","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-full wp-image-952 \" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/i-spy-flowers.jpg\" alt=\"Spring or Summer Flower I-Spy Preschool Lesson\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: katherinemariephotography.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf the weather in your area has been anything like Northeast Ohio, you haven't had to spend \u003cdel\u003etoo much\u003c\/del\u003e \u003cem\u003eany\u003c\/em\u003e time watering the flower beds, hanging baskets, or garden in your backyard or schoolyard. But if you happen to be able to unearth some 'un-drowned' blossoms, we stumbled across some utterly fantastic flower activities at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/katherinemariephotography.com\/blog\/archives\/8861\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eKatherine Marie Photography\u003c\/a\u003e that would make a great addition to your spring or flower\/botany lessons! Here are a few of our favorites!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eI-Spy with Flowers.\u003c\/strong\u003e {Pictured above in Katherine's stunning style!} Collect several glass vases, small toys\/items, potting soil, and, of course, some colorful blossoms. As you arrange the flowers, 'hide' the collected items in and on the soil, in the flowers, and anywhere else you can fit them. As your kiddos play, have them describe the item spied, thinking about colors, locations, unique attributes, etc. until their classmates guess which object they've located.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFlower Math.\u003c\/strong\u003e Katherine provides two fun options for your kiddos to try. The first is a \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/katherinemariephotography.com\/blog\/archives\/8861\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003edaisy math puzzle\u003c\/a\u003e. Students are challenged to recognize the numeral in the center of each flower, then count and paste the correct number of petals around it. In the second activity, students use spoon flowers and Styrofoam blocks, solving simple word problems or practicing numeral recognition in order to 'plant' the correct number of flowers in their garden.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eHead on over to Katherine Marie's site for these and other fantastic flower projects {you don't want to miss the adorable arts\/crafts ideas or flower sight word game!} - your kiddos will have a blast!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734112575513,"sku":"A3782","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/i-spy-flowers.jpg?v=1522781745"},{"product_id":"bug-themed-sorting-and-classifying-activity-a2964","title":"Bug Themed - Sorting and Classifying Activity!","description":"\u003cp\u003eWhile your kinders practice sorting throughout the day {and many times without even recognizing that they're using the skill!}, invite them to use their sorting and classifying know-how in this spring or summer math\/science center activity. They'll have to put their problem solving hats on and get ready to make astute observations in order to put these unique bugs in the proper category. Best of all, students will be introduced to a new way of organizing data - a Venn Diagram! Here's how it works...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-image-879\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Bug-Math-Cards-1.jpg\" alt=\"Spring Bug Sorting Cards Preschool Lesson Plan\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan id=\"more\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFind a black and white clip art image online and use it to create bug sorting cards. Add spots in different shapes {we used circles, stars, triangles, and left others blank} or create different patterns and print the finished cards onto construction paper in various colors.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-image-880\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Bug-Math-Venn-Diagram-1.jpg\" alt=\"Spring Bug Sorting Preschool Lesson Plan\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOn a scrap piece of bulletin board paper or wrapping paper, draw a large Venn Diagram, labeling each section with a specific variable your students must use when classifying the bug cards. In our activity, we included the headings \"Pink\", \"Circle Spots\", \"Both\" {where the pink and circle spot sections overlap}, and \"None\" {around the outside edges of the diagram}.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-image-878\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Bug-Math-Activity-1.jpg\" alt=\"Spring Bug Sorting Preschool Lesson Plan\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eProvided with the stack of bug cards and the Venn Diagram, invite your students to sort the cards into their appropriate categories. Because they're looking at both the color of the card and the shape of each bug's spots, this activity is certain to challenge their classifying skills!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734112673817,"sku":"A2964","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Bug-Math-Cards-1.jpg?v=1522781745"},{"product_id":"learning-about-weather-through-pretend-play-a2965","title":"Learning About Weather Through Pretend Play","description":"\u003cfigure\u003e\n    \u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/4938639714.jpg\" alt=\"Thermometer\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003e\n\t\tphoto © 2010 \n        \u003ca title=\"click to visit the Flickr profile page for Ged Carroll\" href=\"http:\/\/www.flickr.com\/people\/renaissancechambara\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eGed Carroll\u003c\/a\u003e | \n        \u003ca title=\"get more information about the photo 'Thermometer'\" href=\"http:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/39435232@N00\/4938639714\" 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\u003eAllie Magnuson, Scholastic's Classroom Solutions blogger for the preschool and kindergarten classroom, has put together a phenomenal article on incorporating weather into your pretend play corner! The fantastic thing about this combination is that the activities derived from it are cross-curricular, extending into every subject, and Allie's suggestions are all unique and engaging - some require technology, some require homemade tools, and others require a showcase of your kiddos sparkling {and creative!} personalities! Here are a few of our favorite ideas...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeather Word Write-Up.\u003c\/strong\u003e In their own unique style, have students use weather word cards and symbols to make forecasts. Armed with a seven-day forecast chart, a map of the United States, and a hand-held microphone, your kiddos will have a blast reporting that today is warm and sunny with a high of 78 degrees. This is a fabulous way for students to review and use new vocabulary words, practice communication skills, make connections between weather patterns in different parts of the country, and learn how to work with peer collaborators.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTracking Thunderstorms.\u003c\/strong\u003e What kindergartner would pass up the chance to make noise in the classroom? Allie suggests inviting you kiddos work together to simulate and track a thunderstorm. This activity is fantastic for team building, learning to take accurate measurements, practicing converting data into comparable units, and all around fun!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eFind more great ideas, pictures, and suggestions for incorporating weather in the pretend play corner at Allie's blog! She's thought of everything from simple weather measuring gadgets {i.e. rain gauges, thermometers, sun clocks, and the like} to tornadoes and volcanoes!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/blogs.scholastic.com\/classroom_solutions\/2011\/05\/literacy-in-kindergarten-dramatic-play-centers-part-4.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eLiteracy in Kindergarten Dramatic Play Centers, Pt. 4: Weather Station\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734112804889,"sku":"A2965","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/4938639714.jpg?v=1522781746"},{"product_id":"diy-file-folder-guessing-game-a3783","title":"DIY - File Folder Guessing Game!","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-957 \" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/what-is-it.jpg\" alt=\"Science Guessing Game Preschool Lesson Plan\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: strongstart.blogspot.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCultivate a thirst for learning, help your preschoolers learn how to ask the right questions, and teach your kiddos to be great observers and problem solvers with this fantastic guessing game from Maureen at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/strongstart.blogspot.com\/2011\/05\/what-is-it-guessing-game.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eStrongStart\u003c\/a\u003e! All you need are a few simple supplies from your office supply closet and your magazine rack, and you're set to go!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow It Works...\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsing file folders with magazine images glued inside and a small 'viewing window' on the outside {pictured above with directions at Maureen's full post}, students are given a sneak peek of each image and are invited to make an educated guess as to what the picture might be of. To encourage the scientific investigator in your curious kiddos, invite them to follow a simple procedure when attempting to deduce the answer:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRecord observations. \u003cem\u003eWhat color is it? Does it appear to have a texture? Are there any 'unique' markings?\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMake and record a preliminary guess.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAsk questions! \u003cem\u003eIs the image of a living or nonliving thing? Is it an animal? Does it have any distinguishing characteristics? What is it used for? Where is it used? In what room {of the house} is it stored? Have them think of the traditional - who, what, where, when, how, and why - when coming up with questions to ask.\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTaking the new information into account, revise and record your new guess.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf needed, ask for hints\/clues.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMake a final, educated guess.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eYour naturally inquisitive preschoolers are sure to respond to this fantastic exercise! Be sure to visit StrongStart for the full write-up!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734112903193,"sku":"A3783","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/what-is-it.jpg?v=1522781746"},{"product_id":"dinosaur-matching-game-a3387","title":"Dinosaur Matching Game","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-1149 \" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/dinosaur-match-game.jpg\" alt=\"Dinosaur Match Game Preschool Printable\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: projectsforpreschoolers.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAny of your kiddos going through a dinosaur phase? Does your classroom explore a dinosaur unit at some point during the year? This dinosaur matching game printable from \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.projectsforpreschoolers.com\/dinosaur-match-game\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eProjects for Preschoolers\u003c\/a\u003e would be the perfect addition to your free play or game area!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsing real photos and featuring more than just one dinosaur in each shot, students are certain to strengthen visual discrimination and visual memory skills as they attempt to pair identical cards. They'll also build problem solving, practice making observations, and strengthen social skills as they break into groups to play this fun game with their classmates!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eBe sure to visit Projects for Preschooler for this and other educational downloads for your kiddos!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734114803737,"sku":"A3387","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/dinosaur-match-game.jpg?v=1522781758"},{"product_id":"essentials-for-your-science-center-or-shelf-a3792","title":"Essentials for Your Science Center or Shelf","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Science-Center-Preschool.jpg\" alt=\"Science Center Preschool Lesson Plan\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePreschoolers encounter science every day as they play, discover, and learn. Vanessa Levin of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.pre-kpages.com\/science\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ePre-K Pages\u003c\/a\u003e has put together a great list of items to keep on hand in order to provide your little 'scientists' with the opportunity to investigate and think critically about the world around them! Consider using the list to adapt or expand your science center or shelf for next year. For a full list, be sure to head on over to Pre-K Pages - to entice you, here's a look at a few of our favorite items!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eUsing the Five Senses\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe use our five senses to explore, identify, and categorize basically everything around us! Through taste we discover that a gummy worm dipped in sugar is much more appetizing than a gummy worm dipped in salt. Using our eyes and ears we witness the fizzing, bubbling chemical reaction between baking soda and vinegar. With touch we can explore the properties of the state-defying cornstarch-water mixture {the one that is both a liquid and a solid!}. Although blindfolded, through smell we can tell the difference between an orange and a banana. Invite your kiddos to sharpen their senses with a variety of discovery bottles...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSmelly bottles. Wash out old spice jars, placing cotton balls with liquid scents - lavender, vanilla, mint, banana, almond, etc.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSound shaker bottles. Cover recycled bottles with paper, leaving only a small viewing window with a flap. Fill and seal each bottle with a different material - rocks, colored sand, dried beans, rice, etc. Have students use their ears to distinguish the source of the various sounds.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInteresting theme or i-spy bottles. Invite your students to explore how oil and water react, create an i-spy bottle by including a list of objects for students to find among the bottle's contents, create rainbow bottles with brightly colored water, etc.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eScientific Tools\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile they may not know exactly how to use them, stock your science center with all types of scientific \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-724-lab-equipment.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003elab equipment\u003c\/a\u003e and tools for exploration:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMagnifying glasses\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBinoculars\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eView-Masters\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMicroscopes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMicroscope slides {prepared and unprepared}\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTest tubes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBeakers\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGraduated cylinders\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePipettes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eScales\/bucket balance\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTweezers\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSafety goggles\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGiven the ability to manipulate tools, experiment, ask questions, and contemplate the results, your curious kiddos will be well on their way to scientific proficiency!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734116147225,"sku":"A3792","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Science-Center-Preschool.jpg?v=1522781766"},{"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":"homemade-sea-shells-i-spy-bottle-a2338","title":"Homemade - Sea Shells I-Spy Bottle","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/4herreras.blogspot.com\/2011\/06\/sea-shells-i-spy-bottle.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-2855\" title=\"sea-shell-i-spy\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/sea-shell-i-spy.jpg\" alt=\"Homemade Summer I-Spy Bottle Kids Craft\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: 4herreras.blogspot.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\nTime for Play\u003c\/a\u003e offers a fantastic way to switch up your homemade I-spy bottles for summer - add sea shells! Found at your local craft store or collected on your beach vacation, all you'll need is a recycled plastic bottle {most likely a sports drink bottle with a wide mouth that will fit the large sea shells} and \"treasure\" for your kiddos to hunt down to complete the activity!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIdeas for \"Treasure\"\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-21383-3d-zoo-eraser-60-count.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eSummer erasers\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSmall plastic animals\/objects\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-661-foam.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eFoam cutouts\u003c\/a\u003e {letters, animals, shapes, etc.}\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-649-buttons.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eShape buttons\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eColorful \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-657-craft-puffs.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ecraft pom poms\u003c\/a\u003e in various sizes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith these safely hidden, consider providing your kiddos with a reusable checklist {i.e. a laminated list that can be used with dry erase markers} so that they can keep track of the items they've already found as well as the items they should be searching for. Have them complete the activity with variations. For example, you might invite your kiddos to search for the items in alphabetical order or identify the beginning sound of the found item and name another object\/word with the same sound, etc.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eBe sure to visit Time for Play for this and other fun early childhood activities!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734119161881,"sku":"A2338","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/sea-shell-i-spy.jpg?v=1522781785"},{"product_id":"science-journal-four-seasons-tree-project-a2997","title":"Science Journal: Four Seasons Tree Project","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg title=\"2775011897\" class=\"alignright size-full wp-image-1093\" alt=\"Four Seasons Science Kindergarten Lesson Plan\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/2775011897.jpg\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe saw this fantastic year long project at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/aplacecalledkindergarten.blogspot.com\/2011\/04\/four-seasons-trees.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eA Place Called Kindergarten\u003c\/a\u003e, the blog created by kindergarten teacher, Jonelle Bell, and had to share it {along with a fun, \u003cem\u003efree\u003c\/em\u003e science journal printable}! It's simple really - all you need is a tree for observation, graphic art tools, and your eager little scientists\/observers! Throughout the year, have your kiddos pack up their 'tools' and head out to the {same!} tree to observe and record the changes brought on by each different season.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe created reproducible journal pages to help you and your students complete this fun exercise...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cimg title=\"Four-Seasons-Tree-Science-Journal\" class=\"size-full wp-image-1095 aligncenter\" alt=\"Four Seasons Science Kindergarten Lesson Plan and Kindergarten Printable\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Four-Seasons-Tree-Science-Journal.jpg\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e...providing a place to record the date of observation, a scientific drawing of the tree during each season, and record written observations.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Digital Download","offer_id":1734123159577,"sku":"A2997","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Four-Seasons-Tree-Science-Journal.jpg?v=1524673031"},{"product_id":"adventures-in-nature-journaling-a3009","title":"Adventures in Nature Journaling","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-1174\" title=\"047\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/047.jpg\" alt=\"Outdoor Writing Kindergarten Lesson Plan\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: greeningsamandavery.typepad.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe ran across this great post at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/greeningsamandavery.typepad.com\/greening-sam-and-avery\/2011\/09\/nature-journaling-ideas-and-resources.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eGreening Sam and Avery\u003c\/a\u003e and thought it might come in handy for those of you attempting to incorporate a bit of nature journaling into your curriculum! It's full of great ideas that are sure to get your kiddos involved and learning! Here's our favorite exercise...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFind A Treasure\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePreschool and kindergarten classrooms are often littered with \"treasure\" students have found while on the playground, walking in from the bus, or wherever else they may have ventured that day. Rocks. Leaves. Pine cones. Flowers. You name it! While it is certainly important to encourage your kiddos to find beauty and worth in the world around them, as well as stimulate creativity and use of their imagination, there's a much neater way of doing it. Armed with their nature journals and a pack of color pencils (or other graphic art material), invite your students to embark on an adventure for treasure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce spotted, to record its find and circumvent the need to bring the \"treasure\" to the classroom, have your students draw the object in as much detail as they can, writing or dictating describing words to complete the process. Consider providing magnifying glasses so that students can take a closer look and measuring tools. Just in case they want to attempt to find their treasure again, invite your kiddos to record the object's location on a map of the school yard. Back in the classroom, have a treasure hunt \"show and tell\", inviting your students to take turns sharing their drawings and describing what they found!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eFor more fantastic nature journal exercises and some excellent resource links, be sure to read the full post at Greening Sam and Avery!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734126239769,"sku":"A3009","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/047.jpg?v=1522781822"},{"product_id":"flower-still-life-drawings-a2378","title":"Flower Still Life Drawings","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-full wp-image-3316 \" title=\"Flower-Still-1\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Flower-Still-1.jpg\" alt=\"Seasons Art Project for Kids\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003eSource: www.brilliantbeginningspreschoolutah.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe love this idea from \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.brilliantbeginningspreschoolutah.com\/2010\/10\/f-is-for-flower-still-life.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eBrilliant Beginnings Preschool\u003c\/a\u003e, blog created by preschool teacher, Ms. Morgan. Perfect for any season {all you have to do is change out the flowers for seasonal elements}, students were encouraged to sit in front of their favorite display and recreate it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSupplies You'll Need\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNature display {flowers, leaves, pine cones, sticks, acorns, etc.}\u003c\/li\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 supplies {\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, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-102-markers.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003emarkers\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-291-pastel-sets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003epastels\u003c\/a\u003e, etc.}\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eInvite your students to mix and match mediums as they draw. We think this activity is great because it will help your kiddos hone their observation skills and will build visual discrimination.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eBe sure to visit Brilliant Beginnings Preschool to see their finished art projects!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734127550489,"sku":"A2378","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Flower-Still-1.jpg?v=1522781830"},{"product_id":"science-explorations-the-sense-of-touch-a3835","title":"Science Explorations - The Sense of Touch","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-full wp-image-1295  \" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/hands.jpg\" alt=\"Five Senses Science Preschool Lesson Plan\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: nesharm | iStockphoto\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe found this great, comprehensive lesson plan at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.brilliantbeginningspreschoolutah.com\/2009\/06\/hands-sense-of-touch.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eBrilliant Beginnings Preschool\u003c\/a\u003e {a blog created by preschool teacher, Ms. Morgan} to help your kiddos explore their sense of touch. With this concept at its center, the lesson provides your little scientists with practice in making observations and gathering information, as well as making comparisons and drawing conclusions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs an introductory activity, Ms. Morgan suggests gathering several items from around the house or classroom that have a unique texture - bubble wrap, a feather, etc. Then, using two different points of contact {their fingers and their elbow}, students are invited to compare how the items feel. Ms. Morgan offers some guiding questions that will help your kiddos discover that their fingertips are more sensitive to touch than their elbows and can feel things in greater detail.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis is just\u003c\/em\u003e one \u003cem\u003eof the many activities Ms. Morgan includes in her comprehensive lesson. For a fun song, craft, and game, be sure to visit Brilliant Beginnings Preschool for the details!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734127714329,"sku":"A3835","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/hands.jpg?v=1522781831"},{"product_id":"blubber-glove-winter-animals-science-experiment-a3875","title":"Blubber Glove - Winter Animals Science Experiment","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-full wp-image-1528\" title=\"Blubber-Glove\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Blubber-Glove.jpg\" alt=\"Winter Animals Science Experiment Preschool Lesson Plan\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: www.mrsjumpsclass.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHere's a cute science experiment to do with your preschoolers this winter posted by Deanna Jump of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mrsjumpsclass.com\/January.htm\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eMrs. Jump's Class\u003c\/a\u003e! It's a great way to encourage critical thinking, making predictions, and discussing observations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter introducing several arctic animals - polar bears, walruses, penguins, etc. - ask your students if they know how these animals stay warm in the winter. Discuss how, not only do these animals live in cold, snowy habitats, they also need to swim in frigid waters in order to find food. Have your kiddos stick their hand in a bin of icy water for effect.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInvite your kiddos to brainstorm how this might be possible. Encourage them to think about how \u003cem\u003ethey\u003c\/em\u003e stay warm {layers of heavy clothing} and then introduce the blubber glove. Have each child compare the sensation of sticking one hand in directly in the icy water and using the blubber glove buffer for the other. They'll be amazed to discover that polar bears, walruses, penguins, and other arctic animals have this insulation built in!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eTo make a blubber glove...\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFill a gallon sized Ziploc bag with Crisco; being sure to coat the bottom and both sides to about an inch and a half from the top.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNestle a second Ziploc bag down into the first, created a pocket.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAt the top, seal off the opening where the two bags meet on either side with duct tape.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eMrs. Jump has lots of great winter ideas, so be sure to head over to her classroom website for some inspiration!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734136070169,"sku":"A3875","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Blubber-Glove.jpg?v=1522781882"},{"product_id":"easter-math-jelly-bean-observations-and-graphing-a3510","title":"Easter Math - Jelly Bean Observations and Graphing","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-large wp-image-1937\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Easter-Jelly-Bean-Activities.jpg\" alt=\"Easter Science and Math Preschool Printable\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: ateachingmommy.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAmber of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.ateachingmommy.com\/2011\/04\/easter-sneak-peek-and-some-of-our-week.html\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eA Teaching Mommy\u003c\/a\u003e came up with these fantastic jelly bean themed math\/science activities and we thought we'd pass them along - they'd make a great addition to your Easter lesson plans!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe first activity invites your preschoolers to use their five senses to observe their jelly bean candies. While we're sure your kiddos will be most excited about tasting their samples, they're sure to have a lot of fun describing what their jelly beans look, smell, sound, and feel like too!\n\nThe next activity offers a great opportunity for your preschooler to practice color recognition, sorting, counting, and graphing skills! Not only will your kiddos enjoy using the jelly bean manipulatives to complete the activity, the finished graphing worksheet can be used to demonstrate how to analyze collected data. Students can practice using comparative terms - most, least, more than, less than, equal to, etc. - to describe the various columns on their printable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eFor these fabulous worksheets, and lots of other great Easter ideas, be sure to visit A Teaching Mommy!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734141902873,"sku":"A3510","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Easter-Jelly-Bean-Activities.jpg?v=1522781917"},{"product_id":"easter-fun-guess-whats-in-the-egg-a3898","title":"Easter Fun - Guess What's in the Egg!","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\" wp-image-1689  \" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/429165701_cb38620185_z.jpg\" alt=\"Easter Problem Solving Preschool Lesson Plan\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto ©2007 Jennifer Murawski, Flickr\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGet your kiddos' analytical minds into high gear with this fun Easter themed problem solving activity! Not only will it provide an opportunity for your students to use their powers of observation, it's also a fun way for your students to get their \u003cem\u003efamilies\u003c\/em\u003e in on the fun! Here's the idea...\n\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan id=\"more\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSend home a plastic Easter egg and a note, inviting parents to help their child a) choose something to put in the egg and b) write several clues (3+) about what is inside the egg.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHave students present their egg to the class, one at a time, reading off the clues.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHave students pass around their egg and, based on the clues as well as their observations (i.e. what it sounds like when you shake it, the weight of the egg, etc.), have them invite their classmates to guess what they think is in the egg!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe project is simple and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734142361625,"sku":"A3898","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/429165701_cb38620185_z.jpg?v=1522781920"},{"product_id":"spring-unit-fun-with-birds-a3900","title":"Spring Unit - Fun with Birds!","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\" wp-image-1702  \" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/436405956_b48c3b9b82_b.jpg\" alt=\"Spring and Easter Science Preschool Lesson Plan\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto ©2007 greenacre8, Flickr\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne of my favorite signs of spring is the return of the birds that have migrated south for the winter. To get in the spirit of spring, we found this cute bird lesson from Amanda over at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/naturallychicmama.blogspot.com\/2011\/06\/learning-at-home-birds.html\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eNaturally Chic Mama\u003c\/a\u003e and thought it would make a great addition to your lesson plans! While you'll have to visit her blog for the full list of activities, here are a few of our favorites...\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eCookies...they're for the birds!\u003c\/em\u003e We love that Amanda and her boys made cookies for the birds! This can be a super fun activity to do with your preschoolers. Talk about what birds like to eat, then have them help you mix and form cookies from the dough. You'll have to tote them home to bake, but your kiddos will be delighted to find the perfect tree placement for their gift to the birds!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eBird watching.\u003c\/em\u003e With your treats ready and waiting, take time each day to observe the wildlife\/birds your offerings attract. Talk about the qualities of a good bird watcher - ability to be quiet, ability to use binoculars properly, knowledge of birds in the area, etc. Arm your kiddos with their bird watching tools - binoculars and a flip book of the most popular birds in your area - and head out. You might consider having your students keep track of all their findings in their science journals. Each day, have them draw\/record how much of their bird cookies are left, the number of birds they observed, if they saw any other animals, etc.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eFor literature suggestions, a great craft, the recipe for bird cookies, and lots of other great lesson ideas - be sure to visit Naturally Chic Mama!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734142623769,"sku":"A3900","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/436405956_b48c3b9b82_b.jpg?v=1522781921"},{"product_id":"spring-science-exploration-caterpillars-to-butterflies-a3117","title":"Spring Science Exploration - Caterpillars to Butterflies","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-full wp-image-2005\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Caterpillar-Observation-Center.jpg\" alt=\"Spring and Summer Insect Science Experiment and Kindergarten Lesson Plan\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: creeksidelearning.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJulie over at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/creeksidelearning.com\/2012\/05\/11\/the-very-hungry-caterpillars\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eCreekside Learning\u003c\/a\u003e recently posted this fun spring\/summer activity that will have your little scientists learning about the life cycle of a butterfly, making observations, and playing with caterpillars!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCaterpillar Observation Center\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMany toy stores and online teacher supply stores sell kits for raising butterflies. This can be such a neat experience for your kiddos - literally being able to observe all the changes a butterfly goes through during its transformation. We love Julie's idea for setting up a caterpillar observation center! She provided her kiddos with clip boards, a pen, and paper for recording observations, as well as various tools for helping her daughters collect information - a magnifying glass, a ruler, and even a set of cards displaying the scientific method to facilitate independent exploration and learning!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eLinks of Interest\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-4270-butterfly-garden.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eButterfly Garden\u003c\/a\u003e - Everything you need for raising your own butterflies! The kid includes an 11-1\/4 inch habitat, mail-in coupon for the butterfly culture (yields 5 caterpillars), butterfly feeding kit, and instructions for care.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-2063-butterfly-pavilion.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eButterfly Pavilion\u003c\/a\u003e - Everything you need for raising your own butterflies! The kit includes 2-foot tall mesh butterfly pavilion\/habitat and a mail in coupon for two cups containing 6 to 10 Painted Lady butterfly larvae with special food and complete instructions.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-19996-butterfly-replacement-certificate.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eButterfly Replacement Certificate\u003c\/a\u003e - If you've done this exploration before and already have a butterfly habitat, simply redeem this coupon for a 'refill' of 5 Painted Lady butterfly larvae. [You could also purchase this in addition to your butterfly pavilion if you want to raise more butterflies at a time!]\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734148259865,"sku":"A3117","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Caterpillar-Observation-Center.jpg?v=1522781956"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/collections\/SinkFloatActivity.jpg?v=1530027919","url":"https:\/\/www.supplyme.com\/collections\/skill-making-observations.oembed?page=2","provider":"SupplyMe","version":"1.0","type":"link"}