{"title":"Childrens Literature","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"neither-snow-nor-rain-nor-heat-a1830","title":"“Neither snow, nor rain, nor heat…”","description":"\u003cp\u003eSpring, summer, and fall easily lend themselves to fun, season-inspired projects, with Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas right behind. But what about those dreaded months between New Years and the beginning of spring? Weather conditions generally do not permit outside excursions so the only platform available for activities is restricted to the classroom and other approved parts of the school building. If you find yourself in this situation, introducing a unit of study focused on the Postal Service can offer versatility and fun.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYour kindergartners might know that grandma, who lives in Florida, sends a birthday card every year, but they might not understand how it gets there. Your seventh graders understand the significance of house numbers, street names, and zip codes, but may not grasp how important the Postal Service is to our economy. Lessons, activities, and crafts can be tailored to age and skill levels.\n\nYounger children will enjoy making and decorating their own mailboxes. \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.educatall.com\/page\/342\/Recycled-Mailbox.html\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eAllison McDonald\u003c\/a\u003e offers a great guide for this craft using ordinary materials found around the house. In preparation for the craft, children can collect these supplies and bring them to class. By passing out blank envelopes or postcards with names of classmates, children can practice name recognition and ‘delivering’ packages to the correct mailbox. A fun variation is to partner with other teachers on the floor and send special messages to each other throughout the week.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSupplement these fun activities with appropriate reading. \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.educatall.com\/page\/343\/Postal-services---Book-suggestion.html\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eAllison McDonald\u003c\/a\u003e suggests A Snowy Surprise written by Amy Hest. Other books and resources include: About the Post Office (Out \u0026amp; About) by Sue Barraclough, Caillou Sends A Letter by Joceline Sanschagrin, and Owney, the mail-pouch pooch by Mona Kerby.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGet a \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-276-classroom-rugs-classroom-carpets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003echeap classroom rug\u003c\/a\u003e today!  Great quality and prices.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734074236953,"sku":"A1830","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"more-postal-service-fun-a1841","title":"More Postal Service Fun","description":"\u003cp\u003eDid you know that the United States Postal Service (USPS) is one of the few government agencies expressly sanctioned by the \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-1583-jumpstarters-for-the-us-constitution.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eU.S. Constitution\u003c\/a\u003e? Did you know that, with its 656,000 employees, the USPS is the second-largest civilian employer in the United States or that they deliver 660 million pieces of mail each day? While you may not have thought so before, our country’s postal service offers a surprisingly delightful opportunity for learning and fun!\n\nTo supplement history and facts, contact your local post office for a class tour. While many of your students have placed a letter in their mailbox, most can only speculate what happens after their postman\/woman picks it up. Along with appropriate reading selections, older children might also enjoy videos on the creation and transformation of the USPS. One such video, provided by USPS, teaches audiences about the importance of zip codes for speed and accuracy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA field trip to your local post office might not be appropriate for classrooms of younger children. “Not Just Cute” creator Amanda Morgan, offers a wonderful alternative for interactive learning. Through her “\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/notjustcute.com\/2010\/02\/24\/mailing-may-and-mailing-me\/\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eMailing May and Mailing Me!\u003c\/a\u003e” activity younger students will learn more about the postal system through literature and as they correspond with family and friends.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe offer a variety of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-276-classroom-rugs-classroom-carpets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003erugs for classrooms\u003c\/a\u003e and schools on our shopping site!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734074597401,"sku":"A1841","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"story-characters-a1847","title":"Story Characters","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-238-hand-puppets-finger-puppets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eHand puppets\u003c\/a\u003e and character replicas are great ways to help students connect with stories read in the classroom. Whether they sit and play with their creations while you read, help out by recreating the story as it’s read, or simply take their crafts home, making story characters provides a physical reminder of the story and its lessons. They can also provide opportunities for further creativity if you work together to formulate new stories that center around favorite storybook characters.\n\nFor example, to go along with the book “Frog \u0026amp; Toad Are Friends” by Arnold Lobel, have your students create a toad and \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-8435-plushpups-hand-puppet-frog.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003efrog puppet\u003c\/a\u003e. EnchantedLearning.com and TeacherHelp.org offer templates and instructions on how to create your own puppets out of paper bags, socks, etc. Divide your students into small groups and have each plot out their own Frog and Toad adventure. It may be helpful to discuss each character and the traits that have been observed before beginning this writing exercise. Additionally, you may want to focus your students on a specific concept like “Frog \u0026amp; Toad Learn To Recycle”, “Frog \u0026amp; Toad Meet A New Friend”, or another topic of your choosing. Once their stories have been completed, have your students use the puppets to act them out.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.enchantedlearning.com\/crafts\/puppets\/paperbag\/\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ePaper Bag Puppets Craft - Enchanted Learning Software\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.teacherhelp.org\/puppets.htm\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ePuppets: TeacherHelp.org\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-276-classroom-rugs-classroom-carpets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eEducational classroom carpets\u003c\/a\u003e are versatile and are perfect for circle time.  Browse our selection today!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734074826777,"sku":"A1847","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"comprehensive-spring-lesson-for-toddlers-a1867","title":"Comprehensive Spring Lesson For Toddlers","description":"\u003cp\u003ePutting together a comprehensive lesson plan for your toddlers can sometimes be a challenge. With short attention spans and varied development stages, it may feel like you put a lot of time and energy into a lesson without the desired effects. Because of this it can be easy to get lost in what wasn’t accomplished and lose sight of the overall goal—genuine learning. Remember that every class will be different and that flexibility is the key. If you don’t get through each lesson component, use it another day. If you find the activity too challenging, tailor it or scrap it completely and move on.\n\nErin, Totally Tots contributor, has posted a comprehensive spring lesson plan for toddlers centered around Easter, spring, and the book “The Noisy Egg” by Judith Nicholls that’s great to use when you’re feeling burnt out and need a break from planning! It includes the following components:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e•\tReading Circle: “The Noisy Egg” by Judith Nicholls and “Five Little Ducks” by Justine Smith.\n•\tMusic: Five Little Ducks.\n•\tCraft Time: Duck cutouts with a focus on shapes and fine motor skills.\n•\tSensory Science: Children play with floating ducks in the sand and water table.\n•\tSnack Time: Chocolate lollipops in the shape of a duck.\n•\tMuscle Development: Pretend to be a duck.\n•\tMath: Counting ducks.\n•\tGames: “Lucky Ducks”.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese activities can be used for one class period or can be split up between days. Just remember to be flexible and have fun!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/totallytots.blogspot.com\/2010\/03\/once-upon-book-noisy-egg.html\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eTotally Tots: Once Upon a Book ~ The Noisy Egg\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-276-classroom-rugs-classroom-carpets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eClassroom circle time rugs\u003c\/a\u003e should be soft, durable, fun for the students.  Check out our selection today!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734075482137,"sku":"A1867","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"fun-food-chain-activities-a1946","title":"Fun Food Chain Activities","description":"\u003cp\u003eJennifer Sinsel, elementary teacher and contributor to Lesson Planet, has designed a wonderful lesson on food chains that incorporates reading and literacy, as well as, the exploration of new concepts through hands on activities.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShe recommends beginning the science lesson by reading aloud Brian Ellis' book \"The Web at Dragonfly Pond\". This story describes the author's own discovery of the natural links and interconnectedness of living things as he fishes with his father. Sinsel suggests opening story time with a discussion of the student's expectations for the story based solely on the title. She recounts that many children will expect the book to be about spiders because their experience with 'webs', thus far, has been related to these arachnids. Once the story has been read, Sinsel takes the opportunity to explain to her students the concept of a 'food web'.\n\nNext, she has her class simulate a food web with yarn. Each student is assigned a role as a plant, animal, etc. and are given a sticky note to place on their chest. Assuming the role of the sun (or assigning it to another student), Sinsel demonstrates the game by passing the yarn to another student and describing how she is related to that particular plant or animal (i.e. \"I am related to the grass because it needs me to grow\", etc.). The game continues until each student has had a turn (and some will have more than one). Sinsel's activity helps students to visually see the 'webs' created in nature! Be sure to read her article for more great ideas!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.lessonplanet.com\/directory_articles\/elementary_science_lesson_plans\/15_March_2010\/296\/food_chains_integrating_science_and_reading\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eFood Chains: Integrating Science and Reading\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo get more resources for \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-207-life-science.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003elife science lessons\u003c\/a\u003e check out our shopping site!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734078136345,"sku":"A1946","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"choosing-books-for-your-classroom-library-a1949","title":"Choosing Books for Your Classroom Library","description":"\u003cp\u003eIt can be difficult to choose \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-175-childrens-books.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003echildren's books\u003c\/a\u003e for your toddler classes. While you may select some surefire 'hits', there will certainly be 'misses' along the way. A great way to focus your classroom library and story time is to ask for recommendations from other educators, parents, and librarians who work with children on a daily basis. While every child has unique interests and may respond to selections differently, the advice offers a wonderful place to start!\n\nIt may be easy to strike up a conversation with other educators and the school librarian, but it might prove difficult to reach parents. If this is the case, use your student introduction packets to your advantage. Along with medical forms, student profiles, and emergency contact sheets, at the beginning of each term or school year, provide a 'book list' for parents to fill out. These certainly don't have to be in depth or take too much time, but if each parent provides you with the names of three of their child's favorite books, you'll be well on your way to a spectacular (and loved) classroom library!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you're still having trouble, check online forums or teacher blogs for inspiration. Here are two inspiring posts from Prudent Baby!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.prudentbaby.com\/2010\/03\/books-for-under-1-set.html\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ePrudent Baby: Best Books for One Year Olds\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.prudentbaby.com\/2010\/03\/best-books-for-under-2.html\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ePrudent Baby: Best books for under 2\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCheck out some of the \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-259-classroom-favorites.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eclassroom favorites\u003c\/a\u003e on our shopping site.  You may also want to get a couple \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-208-book-display-stands.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ebook display stands\u003c\/a\u003e to keep all of your books organized!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734078234649,"sku":"A1949","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"summer-books-for-your-classroom-a1966","title":"Summer Books For Your Classroom","description":"\u003cp\u003eWhile they tend to pick several favorites that they return to again and again, children enjoy reading new and exciting books as well. Allie, creator of the blog No Time for Flash Cards, has put together a great list of summer reads inspired by Eric Carle's \"The Very Hungry Caterpillar\" that your students are sure to love!\n\n\u003cstrong\u003eCaterpillar Book List:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\"Percival the Plain Little Caterpillar\" by Helen Brawley\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\"Bob and Otto\" by Robert O. Bruel\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\"The Crunching Munching Caterpillar\" by Sheridan Cain\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\"The Very Hungry Caterpillar\" by Eric Carle (of course!)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\"From Caterpillar to Butterfly\" by Deborah Heligiman\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs you read about caterpillars, here are a few learning extensions you can explore. Consider giving your students first-hand experience with the \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-207-life-science.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003elife cycle\u003c\/a\u003e by raising your own \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-2063-butterfly-pavilion.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ebutterfly farm\u003c\/a\u003e. Complete with habitat and voucher for live larvae, Insect Lore's Live Butterfly Garden provides a great starter kit for this learning exercise. Plan a fun excursion around the school yard where children can search for live caterpillars and you can discuss, as a class, the perfect habitat for these insects. Think about incorporating fun crafts during art time or making \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-238-hand-puppets-finger-puppets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003echaracter puppets\u003c\/a\u003e to go along with your story choices. This summer theme provides many opportunities for fun and learning!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.notimeforflashcards.com\/2010\/03\/caterpillar-books.html\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eHappy Birthday \"The Very Caterpillar\" - Caterpillar Books | No Time for Flash Cards\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734078726169,"sku":"A1966","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"cheap-classroom-books-a1977","title":"Cheap Classroom Books","description":"\u003cp\u003eThere is an abundance of children's literature just waiting to be unearthed and many teachers get excited about introducing new concepts through unique stories and \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-175-childrens-books.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003epicture books\u003c\/a\u003e. Unfortunately, classroom budgets only go so far, leaving many teachers to carry the weight of the expense. Jackie, a preschool teacher and mom, insists that this should not deter teachers from incorporating literature into the classroom. Instead, she offers several great ideas on how to find these books inexpensively; a win for both classroom and teacher!\n\n\u003cstrong\u003eYour Personal Library\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you have children, chances are you already have a well-rounded library at home. It may take some digging, but taking a day to sort through the pop-ups, board books, and other picture books on the toy shelf can unearth many great lesson boosters. If you're able, it may be helpful to make a list of the books you \u003cem\u003edo\u003c\/em\u003e have so that the process is faster and easier each unit or term.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Public Library\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe library is full of \u003cem\u003efree\u003c\/em\u003e resources for both children and adults. In many counties you don't even have to leave your house to know if the title your searching for is available thanks to online databases. Even if the story you seek is currently checked out, web-based forms allow you to place holds on these items so that you'll be sure to get them when they're returned.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOther Great Places to Find Inexpensive Children's Books\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n- Annual sales at the library\u003cbr\u003e\n- Yard sales\u003cbr\u003e\n- Thrift stores\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/pocketful--of--posies.blogspot.com\/2010\/03\/inepensive-places-to-find-childrens.html\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ePocketful of Posies: Inepensive Places to Find Children's Books\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734079315993,"sku":"A1977","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"abstract-marble-art-a2027","title":"Abstract Marble Art","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis creative idea has been circulating the internet in various forms, but Erin of LaughPaintCreate, has provided a wonderful guide to enjoying marble abstract art with your students!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFollowing a discussion of the book Mouse Paint by Ellen Stoll Walsh, Erin and her students did some color exploration of their own. Starting with a deep foil pan lined with \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-2213-art1st0153-drawing-pad-11-x-14.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ewhite craft paper\u003c\/a\u003e, Erin explained that colors have their own unique friendships, and demonstrated using the primary colors and marbles.\n\n\u003cstrong\u003eTo create abstract marble art: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePrepare paint in shallow containers.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLightly coat a marble with paint.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDrop it into the paper lined pan and shake so that the \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-1591-magnet-marbles-100-marbles-only.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003emarble\u003c\/a\u003e rolls around.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRepeat using other colors for a fun abstract print.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you desire to display these colorful works of art, paste them onto pieces of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-5991-sunworks0174-construction-paper-9-x-12-black.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eblack construction paper\u003c\/a\u003e. This will make the colors 'pop' and provide a bit of separation between works so each child's art is recognized.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/laughpaintcreate.blogspot.com\/2010\/04\/marble-rolling-abstract-art.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003elaughpaintcreate: Marble Rolling Abstract Art\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734080888857,"sku":"A2027","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"painting-with-fly-swatters-a2041","title":"Painting with Fly Swatters","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis activity is not for the faint-hearted! It's messy and requires lots of space, but the results are fantastic!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSupplies You'll Need\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n- Fly swatters\u003cbr\u003e\n- \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-8637-artista-ii0174-liquid-tempera-paint-16-oz-green.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eTempera paint\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n- \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-121-chart-tablets-24-x-32-assorted-1-12-ruled.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eThick easel paper\u003c\/a\u003e\n\nIf you can manage (and get the 'ok' from your director or administrators), set up your \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-38-kids-easels.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ekids' easels\u003c\/a\u003e in the school yard. This will save walls, ceilings, doors, etc. from the paint splatter that will likely ensue. Send a note home to parents asking them to pack a set of old clothes so that children won't mess up their nice ones. Arm each child with a fly swatter, some shallow containers of paint, and let the fun begin!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTeacher Tom likes to draw small flies onto each child's sheet so that they have something to 'aim' at. Additionally, as a pre- or post-spatter activity, Old Black Fly by Jim Aylesworth and Stephanie's Ponytail by Robert Munsch make excellent story-time material. Again, this activity is not for the faint-hearted, but the results can be frame-worthy!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/teachertomsblog.blogspot.com\/2010\/04\/fly-swatter-painting.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eTeacher Tom: Fly Swatter Painting!\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734081413145,"sku":"A2041","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"colorful-rattlesnake-project-a2050","title":"Colorful Rattlesnake Project","description":"\u003cp\u003eSnakes are fascinating creatures and if you're in to gardening, nature walks, or other outdoor activities, you've likely run into these slithering reptiles at some point in time. Give your students a 'closer' look with this fun rattlesnake craft from Allie at No Time For Flash Cards. Not only can it supplement a biology unit on reptiles, it will make classroom music time a blast!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSupplies You'll Need\u003c\/strong\u003e\n- 2 toilet paper rolls or 1 paper towel roll cut into two pieces\n- \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-88-jingle-bells-15mm-silver.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eJingle bells\u003c\/a\u003e or rice\n- Leg of panty hose or a knee high\n- \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-248-glue-adhesives.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eCraft glue\u003c\/a\u003e (\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-8602-elmers0174-school-glue-gallon.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eElmer's glue\u003c\/a\u003e)\n- \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-730-wonderfoam0174-geometric-shapes-classroom-pack.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eColorful foam\u003c\/a\u003e\n- \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-1194-wiggle-eyes-500-asst.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eWiggle eyes\u003c\/a\u003e\n- \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-2575-chenille-stems-assorted-12-stems.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eChenille stems\u003c\/a\u003e\n- \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-166-kids-scissors.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eScissors for kids\u003c\/a\u003e\n\nInvite your students to cut geometric shapes from the foam. Insert both rolls inside the panty hose, adding the jingle bells or rice, then tightly tie the end of the nylon. Student can then decorate their 'snake' with the foam shapes. To make things easier (and less messy) it may be prudent to use foam already backed with an adhesive.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThread the chenille stem through the panty hose to create a tongue, add wiggle eyes, and you've created your very own rattlesnake! Pair this craft with Judi Barrett's book \"A Snake is Totally Tail\" for some extra exploration and fun!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.notimeforflashcards.com\/2010\/04\/rattlesnake-craft.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eRattlesnake Craft | No Time For Flash Cards\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734081708057,"sku":"A2050","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"bugs-bugs-and-more-bugs-a2123","title":"Bugs, Bugs, and More Bugs!","description":"\u003cp\u003eSummer is \u003cem\u003ealmost\u003c\/em\u003e here and your preschoolers are certain to be excited and ready to be out of school. A fun activity that will allow your students to burn off energy outdoors, while learning about nature, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-78-science.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003escience\u003c\/a\u003e, and \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-249-counting-sorting.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ecounting\u003c\/a\u003e is a 'find and count bug hunt'!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSupplies You'll Need\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n- \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-384-clipboards.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eClipboard\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n- \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-7967-ticonderoga-beginner-pencil-with-eraser.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ePencil\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n- \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-1930-3-magnifier.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eMagnifying glass\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n- Bug checklist\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsing clip art and word processing software, magazine cutouts and card stock, or your own drawing skills and a copy machine, find (or draw) a picture of common bugs in your area and make a 'treasure hunt' checklist. On the day of the activity, give each of your students (or group of students) a clip board, checklist, pencil, and magnifying glass to take outside with them.\n\nInstruct them to find as many of each bug as they can. Recording their finds with a tally on their sheet. Also, Invite them to use their magnifying glass to explore flower beds, under rocks, etc. and to see the bugs more closely. Give them a certain time limit, then return to the classroom and count together the number of bugs found. You can then make graphs to compare bug counts, visually represent the totals, and a whole host of other information.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWrap up the lesson with story time (and some relevant reading material):\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAn Ant's Day Off by Bonny Becker\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe Very Quiet Cricket by Eric Carle\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe Gentleman Bug by Julian Hector\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.notimeforflashcards.com\/2010\/05\/find-and-count-bug-hunt.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eFind and Count Bug Hunt | No Time For Flash Cards\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734084198425,"sku":"A2123","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"preschool-goes-to-the-beach-a2126","title":"Preschool Goes to the Beach","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Beach-Sensory-Tub-008.jpg\" title=\"Beach Sensory Bin and Lesson Ideas\" alt=\"Beach Sensory Bin and Lesson Ideas\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWant a creative way to bring summer to your students? Try this beach-themed \u003ca target=\"blank\" href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-2886-petite-sand-and-water-table-with-lidshelf.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003esensory tub\u003c\/a\u003e from No Time For Flash Cards!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSupplies You'll Need\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSand\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDecorative pebbles\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSeashells\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBeach shovel and rake\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLarge glass beads\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlastic sea animals\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBegin by adding sand to your sensory table. Allie suggests using two different types - one fine grain sand and one course grain sand - for a greater sensory experience. Have your students use the plastic shovels and rakes to help you mix the two substances together.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNext, add the sea shells, pebbles, glass beads, and sea toys. Your students will have fun digging, filling their pails, smoothing the sand, burying items, finding items, counting, sorting, you name it!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFollow up your sensory time with a song and some good reading. Beach books that Allie suggests include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOtto Goes to the Beach by Todd Parr\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eScaredy Squirrel at the Beach by Melanie Watt\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhat Lives in a Shell by Kathleen Weidner Zoehfeld\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca rel=\"nofollow\" href=\"http:\/\/www.notimeforflashcards.com\/2010\/05\/beach-sensory-tub.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eBeach Themed Sensory Tub | No Time For Flash Cards\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734084329497,"sku":"A2126","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Beach-Sensory-Tub-008.jpg?v=1522781575"},{"product_id":"re-organizing-your-classroom-book-shelves-a2147","title":"Re-Organizing Your Classroom Book Shelves","description":"\u003cp\u003eIf you've come to the end of the year and your classroom \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-688-multi-purpose-bookshelf.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ebookshelves\u003c\/a\u003e have become an eyesore, here are a few tips for re-organizing it in preparation for next year. And it only takes ten minutes, so no excuses!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSupplies You'll Need\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n- \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-11626-60-minute-jumbo-timer.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eTimer\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-17105-simple-stopwatch.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003estopwatch\u003c\/a\u003e, or \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-3377-battery-operated-wall-clock.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eclock\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n- Boxes, totes, bins, or bags for sorted items\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBefore you begin, mark your sorting containers appropriately (e.g. \"Keep\", \"Library Sale\", \"Good Neighbors\/Goodwill\/Give Away\", \"Throw Away\/Recycle\"). Since you'll be weeding out the books in your classroom library and your teaching book shelves separately, these will get lots of use.\n\n\u003cstrong\u003eClassroom Library Clean-Up\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSet the timer for 10 minutes.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMagazines. Recycle magazines that are more than three months old. If you subscribe to monthly publications, these can quickly overwhelm your shelves leaving back issues outdated and irrelevant. If you know of certain issues that have become favorites or 'mainstays', mark them with a red tab and put them in the keep pile. Remember though that each classroom is different so if you see they're not getting use during the year, recycle them!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-304-big-books-board-books.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eBoard books\u003c\/a\u003e, paperbacks, and hardcover books. First, remove all books that are badly beaten up and place them in the recycle pile. Next, since you'll probably have a good idea as to what books got the most use during the year and which ones sat on the shelf because of disinterest or date, sort as follows: 1) if they're outdated (and still intact), add them to the 'give away' pile, 2) if they're relevant, but unread due to disinterest, add them to the 'library sale' pile, and 3) if they're classroom favorites, add them to the 'keep' pile.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOther items. If irrelevant items have made their way to your library shelves, clear them off and put them in their rightful place.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRe-shelve the magazines and books in the keep pile.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn ten minutes, your shelves will look better than new!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTeacher Book Shelves\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe process is basically the same! What can get tricky are trade publications, textbooks, and other \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-98-teacher-resource-books.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eteacher resource books\u003c\/a\u003e. If they're a 'must keep', but aren't resources that are used on a consistent basis, pack them away in a tote so that you create extra usable space on your shelves. If at the end of the year you have touched these storage tote treasures, you'll probably be better off getting rid of them and making way for other resources!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca rel=\"nofollow\" href=\"http:\/\/blissfullydomestic.com\/2010\/ten-minute-bookshelf-organization\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eTen Minute Bookshelf Organization\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734085050393,"sku":"A2147","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"story-time-with-eric-carle-a2152","title":"Story Time with Eric Carle","description":"\u003cp\u003eLearning about bugs in your classroom? Here are some great Eric Carle books and activities that will make a great addition to your lesson plans!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Very Busy Spider\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eby Eric Carle\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs you read,\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInvite your students to feel the textured pages.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTalk with your students about webs; how they are designed, types of lines, why spiders build webs, etc.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter you read,\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHelp children make their own webs with string, liquid starch, glitter, and wax paper. When dried, the web can be peeled away from the paper.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAssist children in making hand print spiders to be cut out and placed on their newly created webs.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Very Lonely Firefly\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs you read,\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInvite your students to appreciate the book's special page that lights up.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDiscuss with your students how and why fireflies light up.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter you read,\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHelp your students become fireflies! Have them decorate sentence strips or card stock, glue the ends together to create a headband, then attach curled chenille stems to create antenna. Provide them with glow necklaces for a cute effect!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTurn classroom lights off and pull blinds, or go to a safe, dark place and have your students act out the story. Remember that not all students like the dark, so be aware of their feelings and make special provisions for them if you need to!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor more great ideas and other applications for Eric Carle stories, check out Amanda's post at Not Just Cute!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca rel=\"nofollow\" href=\"http:\/\/notjustcute.com\/2010\/05\/15\/eric-carle-author-study-the-very-busy-spider-and-the-very-lonely-firefly\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eEric Carle Author Study: The Very Busy Spider and The Very Lonely Firefly « Not Just Cute\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLooking for other resources for your \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-58-early-childhood.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eearly childhood\u003c\/a\u003e classroom? MPM School Supplies offers everything from \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-58-early-childhood.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003egames \u0026amp; activities\u003c\/a\u003e to \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-594-manipulatives.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003emanipulatives\u003c\/a\u003e \u0026amp; \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-157-resource-books.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eresource books\u003c\/a\u003e!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734085312537,"sku":"A2152","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"chicka-chicka-boom-boom-summer-literature-collide-a1010","title":"Chicka Chicka Boom Boom! Summer Beach Themed Bulletin Board Idea","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-full wp-image-105\" title=\"Chicka Chicka Boom Boom\" alt=\"Chicka Chicka Boom Boom Summer Themed Languate Arts Bulletin Board\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Chicka-Chicka-Boom-Boom.jpg\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: KinderArt.com | Nanette Sposito\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNanette Sposito brings literature to life with this colorful bulletin board idea she submitted to \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.kinderart.com\/bulletin\/aloha.shtml\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eKinderArt™\u003c\/a\u003e! Instead of doing a regular beach theme for the summer months, the space contributes to the learning-rich environment, covering concepts from a favorite class book, \u003cem\u003eand\u003c\/em\u003e motivating children with its fun, vibrant design.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch1\u003eChicka Chicka Boom Boom! Crafts\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor the sake of time (and attention spans!), it's usually best to divide the crafts for this bulletin board into two days.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eDay 1: Sandy Footprints\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eArmed with a piece of white card stock, there are several ways in which you can tackle creating the footprint:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInvite your students to trace their foot onto a piece of sandpaper.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHave your students trace their foot onto the paper, use a paint brush to apply a thin layer of glue to the print, then sprinkle it with sand.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInstruct your students to trace their foot onto the card stock, then use tan paint mixed with sand to paint their print.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eProvide your students with a shallow dish of school glue and a paint brush. Invite them to paint their foot with the glue, make a 'print' on their piece of paper, then sprinkle sand over it.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePrepare shallow dishes of tan paint (mix brown with white). Instruct your students to use a paint brush to cover one foot with paint, make a print on the card stock, then sprinkle sand over the wet paint.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eDay 2: Letter Palm Trees\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo complete this craft your students will need one tree trunk, three palm fronds, and several coconuts. Depending upon the age of your students you can: 1) provide pre-made construction paper cutouts, 2) provide templates for tracing and construction paper, or 3) provide construction paper and have your students free-hand the shapes. When all the needed shapes are prepared, its time to add some paint. As with the last craft, there are several ways in which students can texture their trees:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCreate several painting stations. At each station place two trays, two marbles, and a shallow dish of washable brown paint or washable green paint. Instruct your students to place their cutout on the tray (the trunk and coconuts at the brown painting stations and the palm fronds at the green painting stations), dip the marble into the paint, and roll it around the paper.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSet-up several painting stations. Place two large roasting pans, two ping pong balls, a handful of drinking straws, a small trash bag, and a shallow dish of washable green paint or washable brown paint at each station. Invite your students to place their cutout (whichever is appropriate based on the color of paint at the station) in the roaster, dip the ping pong ball into the paint, and use the drinking straw to blow it around the roaster and paper.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen the paint has dried, help your students assemble their trees and add colorful foam letters to spell their name.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch1\u003eChicka Chicka Boom Boom! Bulletin Board\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBackground:\u003c\/strong\u003e Aqua blue bulletin board paper to create the sky and tan construction paper or tan bulletin board background paper to create sand.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTitle:\u003c\/strong\u003e \"Chicka Chicka Boom Boom!\", \"Aloha!\", or \"Preschool's Doing Some Sand-sational Reading!\"\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBorder:\u003c\/strong\u003e Beach-themed trimmer or color coordinating bulletin board trim.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDecorations:\u003c\/strong\u003e Use your students crafts. If you wish, create a large palm tree and write your students names, concepts being covered, etc. in the language of a coastal community!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eAre there any interesting ways in which \u003c\/em\u003eyou\u003cem\u003e incorporate literature in your \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-54-classroom-decorations.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eclassroom decoration\u003c\/a\u003e? Share your ideas and inspiration by leaving a comment!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"mpm-adbox\"\u003eTake a look at our online \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eteacher supplies\u003c\/a\u003e store, mpmSchoolSupplies.com. It pretty much has everything a teacher could need including things like \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-46-arts-crafts-supplies.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eart supplies for teachers\u003c\/a\u003e and even larger items like \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-505-alphabet-rugs.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ealphabet rugs\u003c\/a\u003e!\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734085509145,"sku":"A1010","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Chicka-Chicka-Boom-Boom.jpg?v=1522781582"},{"product_id":"marionettes-for-the-classroom-a2158","title":"Marionettes For The Classroom","description":"\u003cp\u003eLooking for a way to spice up your classroom toy cabinet? Here are some great tutorials on making marionettes!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cscript type=\"text\/javascript\"\u003e_mls.push(['Marionette','http:\/\/madebyjoel.blogspot.com\/2010\/05\/marionette.html']);\u003c\/script\u003e\u003ca href=\"#\" onclick=\"return goTop('Marionette');\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eMade by Joel: Marionette\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRefurbish some of the old wooden odds and ends you keep finding in the classroom and around the house with this contemporary marionette from Made By Joel. BONUS: Your students will enjoy the dancing puppet video!\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003eTo spark their creativity, bring in a video camera and CD player and invite your students to make their own productions!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cscript type=\"text\/javascript\"\u003e_mls.push(['Marionette-Puppet','http:\/\/tlc.howstuffworks.com\/family\/wood-crafts4.htm']);\u003c\/script\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#\" onclick=\"return goTop('Marionette-Puppet');\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eTLC Family \"Marionette Puppet\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith a supply list and easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions, your students will be able to create their very own puppet in no time! Partner this craft with a favorite classroom story or poem, assign a particular scene or section of the story to groups of students, and encourage them to create a script, along with cues and props, to present to the class.\n\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cscript type=\"text\/javascript\"\u003e_mls.push(['Ballerina-Marionette','http:\/\/www.enchantedlearning.com\/crafts\/Ballerina.shtml']);\u003c\/script\u003e\u003ca href=\"#\" onclick=\"return goTop('Ballerina-Marionette');\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eEnchanted Learning: Ballerina Marionette\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe creators of Enchanted Learning keep things simple in this puppet tutorial. All you need is card stock, a hole punch, metal brads, a needle and thread. They offer a Leprechaun tutorial as well, but all you need are the cut outs and markers to create personalized characters!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cscript type=\"text\/javascript\"\u003e_mls.push(['All-About-Marionettes','http:\/\/www.ehow.com\/video_4430593_tips-marionette-construction.html']);\u003c\/script\u003e\u003ca href=\"#\" onclick=\"return goTop('All-About-Marionettes');\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eTips for Marionette Construction: All About Marionettes | eHow.com\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStill need a few pointers on constructing marionettes, watch the experts! This video segment offers tips and tricks of the trade, but there are many more videos in the marionette series that are highly captivating and might make a great introduction to the craft!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDon't feel like making your own? MPM School Supplies offers a great selection of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-238-hand-puppets-finger-puppets.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ehand puppets \u0026amp; finger puppets\u003c\/a\u003e, props, and much more!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734085541913,"sku":"A2158","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"beach-themed-preschool-activities-a2166","title":"Beach-Themed Preschool Activities","description":"\u003cp\u003eA great way to infuse summer into your preschool lessons is with beach-themed literature, games, and activities.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"Who Lives in the Ocean?\" Matching Game\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSearch online for colorful pictures of sea life. You'll need about 20 different pairs so brainstorm before you hit the net. Animals you may wish to include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRainbow Fish\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOctopus\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSquid\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eJellyfish\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStar Fish\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSea Horse\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eShark\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhale\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eClam\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSea Turtle\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCoral\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnd the list could go on and on. Print the pictures onto 3\" x 5\" pieces of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-21258-white-card-stock-40-sheet.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ecard stock\u003c\/a\u003e and laminate them to protect against wear and tear. Not only will your students learn about the different creatures that live in the ocean, they'll be testing their working memory as they try to make matches during the game. If you don't have the time to make your own card game, you could also purchase a pre-made set of cards.\n\n\u003cstrong\u003e\"Crabby\" Hands\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDuring art time, invite your students to make hand print crabs. You'll need light blue \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-63-construction-paper.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003econstruction paper\u003c\/a\u003e, orange or red \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-69-paint.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003etempera paint\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-93-kids-paint-brushes-painting-accessories.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ekids paint brushes\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-56-craft-supplies.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ewiggle eyes\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-9647-activa-beach-sand-3-lb-box.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003esand\u003c\/a\u003e, and sea shells. Ask your students to fold their piece of paper in half (hamburger style) then, using a paint brush, instruct your students to paint their right hand and press it firmly in the middle of the paper to the right side of the crease (fingers pointing toward the right edge of the paper, thumb pointing to the top). Have them repeat the process with their left hand ensuring that their second print is placed beside the first (to the left of the crease with fingers pointing to the side, thumb pointed up). Once the paint has dried, complete the scene with wiggle eyes glued to the thumbprints, sand glued to the bottom edge of the paper, and seashells scattered throughout the \"beach\".\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cb\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThemed Sensory Table \u0026amp; Story Time\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/b\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\nFor directions on creating a beach-themed sensory table, as well as related books your students will enjoy during this unit, be sure to check out our previous post, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/ideas\/2126\/preschool-goes-to-the-beach\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ePreschool Goes to the Beach\u003c\/a\u003e. You're students will feel as if they've gone on a 'mini-vacation'!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca target=\"blank\" href=\"http:\/\/jennwa.blogspot.com\/2010\/05\/ocean-theme-at-preschool.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eRamblings of a Crazy Woman: Ocean Theme at Preschool\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734086033433,"sku":"A2166","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"literature-as-lesson-planning-inspiration-a2191","title":"Literature As Lesson Planning Inspiration","description":"\u003cp\u003eEven seasoned teachers need lesson planning inspiration every now and then. If you want to add some spice to the day's activities and exercises, Deborah J. Steward recommends looking first to your bookshelf! Your stash of children's literature can actually provide great \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-67-mathematics.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003emath\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-46-arts-crafts-supplies.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eart\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-78-science.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003escience\u003c\/a\u003e, and other connections!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMath\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChoose a prevalent character or object from the book and create colorful cutouts for:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCounting\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSorting (by color or size)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePatterning\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eScience\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLook for sensory connections. If the setting of your students' favorite book is a farm, make a recording of farm animal sounds and have your students identify them. Talk about how the hide of a cow feels compared to the fur of a dog or the down feathers of a goose. If possible, bring in texture samples for the children to feel. If you have a sensory table, consider filling it with \"wood chips\" or sawdust to introduce students to the materials farmers use to bed the stalls of horses, etc.\n\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-96-music.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eMusic\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFind themed songs that go along with the book (e.g. For a farm themed book you could sing \"Old MacDonald Had a Farm\", \"Five Little Ducks\", etc.)  If possible, make finger or hand puppets for your students to use so that everyone can actively participate while singing. It may also be fun to make up hand motions for students to try.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArt\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHave students draw their favorite scene from the book. Paint or color pictures of the book characters. The possibilities really \u003cem\u003eare\u003c\/em\u003e endless. In most cases, the problem won't be coming up with art projects, it will be figuring out which ones to include and which ones you won't have time to complete!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor more great ideas for teaching preschool be sure to check out the rest of Stewart's blog!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/deborahjstewart.com\/2010\/08\/building-connections-through-childrens-literatur\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eConnecting children's literature to all content areas of your classroom\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734087049241,"sku":"A2191","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"if-you-give-a-mouse-a-cookie-a-lesson-in-economics-a2882","title":"If You Give A Mouse A Cookie: A Lesson In Economics","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg class=\"alignright size-full wp-image-1834\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/If-You-Give-A-Mouse-A-Cookie.jpg\" alt=\"Social Studies and Children's Literature Kindergarten Lesson Plan\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003eWhile your kindergartners may not understand the term 'economics', they'll certainly understand what it means to \u003cem\u003ewant\u003c\/em\u003e something. Mary Suiter, lesson contributor to A to Z Teacher Stuff, has designed a relevant economics lesson for your students that will help them comprehend the concepts of cause and effect, demand, and the difference between a good and a service.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMaterials You'll Need\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-850-drawing-paper.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eDrawing paper\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGraphic art tools (\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-102-markers.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ewashable markers\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-165-crayons.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ecrayons\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-129-colored-pencils.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ecolored pencils\u003c\/a\u003e, etc.)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\"\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-28401-if-you-give-a-mouse-a-cookie.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eIf You Give A Mouse A Cookie\u003c\/a\u003e\" by Laura Numeroff\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuiter suggest beginning the lesson with a discussion on cause and effect using simple sentence examples your students will understand.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-13\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Cause-Effect-Relationships.jpg\" alt=\"\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter discussing several examples, invite your students to come up with their own cause\/effect statements or provide them with several cause statements (e.g. \"Morgan decided not to clean her room...\", \"Daniel sat quietly at his desk and finished his work...\", etc.) and invite them to finish them with effect statements.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOnce students demonstrate an understanding of cause and effect, introduce and read Numeroff's \"If You Give A Mouse A Cookie\". (NOTE: Before reading, it can be fun to pose the title as a cause statement and invite students to predict the effect statement!) After finishing the story, Suiter recommends completing the following activities:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReview the events of the story. This can be done playing a memory \"chain\" game. Have students create a circle. Ask for a student volunteer to start the game. Pass them a bean bag and have them say the first item the mouse wanted after being given a cookie (milk). Instruct them to pass the bean bag to a friend anywhere in the circle who is to recite the first \u003cem\u003eand\u003c\/em\u003e second things (milk, straw). As your students pass the bean bag, continue building up the list until you've recounted every item. Not only will your students be strengthening memory and gross motor skills, they're sure to have a blast!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReview the concepts of cause and effect. Use the events in the story to construct cause and effect statements. Discuss as a class why these statements make sense.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroduce the concepts of goods and services. Everything that the mouse wanted could fall under the umbrella of a good or a service. Give students the definitions of these terms and invite them to brainstorm other goods and services that they use every day.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroduce the concept of demand. Describe the difference between wants and needs. Introduce to students the idea that they themselves are consumers (just like the mouse, or their parents, or their neighbors, etc.) who have specific and unlimited wants and needs.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCombine the concepts to create and illustrate a story. As a class, create your own story, modeled after \"If You Give A Mouse A Cookie\". Here students will get extra practice with cause and effect, practice distinguishing between goods and services, and make connections between related goods as well as demand. Provide students with drawing materials and have each student illustrate a different part of the class story. This can later be bound and put in the classroom library or sent home for children to share with their families.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile this is certainly not a complete list, Suitor gives some great ideas on how to bridge the gap between economics and this delightful children's storybook. Your students are sure to have a blast!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/ecedweb.unomaha.edu\/lessons\/mouse.htm\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eLesson: Give a Mouse a Cookie\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734089048089,"sku":"A2882","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/If-You-Give-A-Mouse-A-Cookie.jpg?v=1522781603"},{"product_id":"fun-activities-using-brown-bear-brown-bear-a2883","title":"Fun Activities Using Brown Bear, Brown Bear","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-450\" title=\"brownbear\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/brownbear.jpg\" alt=\"Eric Carle's Brown Bear cover\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003eNot only is Eric Carle's classic early childhood tale \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-28455-brown-bear-brown-bear-what-do-you-see.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBrown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e perfect for story time, it has many practical learning applications for the classroom as well! Here are a few of our favorites:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStudent Welcome Books\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCompile student pictures and names to help your kids get to know each other (e.g. Teacher, Teacher, who do you see? I see Mason looking at me, etc.).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTake pictures of learning centers to help your students get familiar with the classroom layout (e.g. Teacher desk, teacher desk, what do you see? I see a student desk looking at me. Student desk, student desk, what do you see? I see the library looking at me. Library, library what do you see? I see the reading corner looking at me, etc.).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDraw or take pictures of important classroom procedures\/rules for students to familiarize themselves with (New student, new student, what do you see? I see the sign-in sheet looking at me. Sign-in sheet, sign-in sheet, what do you see? I see the homework bin looking at me, etc.).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eColor Recognition\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTake two weeks, assigning one of the nine classic colors presented in the book to each day. Have your students (and the rest of the hall if you can) wear the assigned color to school that day to strengthen student color recognition skills. On the tenth day, have students wear their favorite color for review!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse the story characters to create a color matching game. Print the colored animals onto card stock, paint clothespins with corresponding colors, then invite your students to clip the proper clothespin on the proper card.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Five Senses\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExpand on Eric Carle's theme and have your students create simple books (or create a book as a class) that include all of the following: What do you see?, What do you hear?, What do you Smell?, What do you feel?, and What do you taste?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpeech \u0026amp; Vocabulary\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMost kindergartners have Carle's classic memorized by this time. Use this opportunity to read the book aloud as a class, recording your students voices for them to hear later. Reading along and out loud will give your students confidence as readers, strengthen speech skills, and help them review important vocabulary.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor more great ideas, visit the full post at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/teachers.net\/lessons\/posts\/561.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eTeachers.net\u003c\/a\u003e!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734089605145,"sku":"A2883","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/brownbear.jpg?v=1522781606"},{"product_id":"community-helpers-firefighters-a3700","title":"Community Helpers: Firefighters","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-43 \" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Fire-Truck-Taber-Andrew-Bain.jpg\" alt=\"\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: www.flickr.com\/photos\/andrewbain\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTaking the time to introduce your preschoolers to helpful community figures is important! Because it takes \u003cem\u003eall\u003c\/em\u003e jobs to make a community, students should learn, first and foremost, that \u003cem\u003eevery\u003c\/em\u003e community helper has value. Ms. Debbie, creator of the blog \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/onceuponadayinpreschool.blogspot.com\/2010\/10\/hurry-hurry-drive-fire-truck.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eOnce Upon A Day In Preschool\u003c\/a\u003e, shares a great lesson for teaching students about the role of a firefighter as well as important fire safety instructions!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat Does A Firefighter Do?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBegin by introducing the day's community helper. Describe what a firefighter does and how they help people. You can find many great resources online that detail the duties of a firefighter, what they wear, how they get to a fire, etc.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLiterature \u0026amp; Music\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHelp students cement what they just learned by reading stories and singing songs about firefighters. Ms. Debbie suggests suggests sharing Audrey and Bruce Wood's \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAlphabet Rescue\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e, but there are many fun books to choose from!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFirefighter Frank\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e by Monica Wellington\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClifford The Firehouse Dog\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e by Norman Birdwell\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFireman Small to the Rescue\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e by Wong Herbert Yee\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor fun (active!) singing, teach the children \"Hurry, Hurry, Drive the Fire Truck\", then tone it down with \"Down by the Station\" or another fun firefighter song.\n\n\u003cstrong\u003eFirefighter Math\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCreate Dalmatian counting mats. Make a dog template from card stock, use this to trace and cut ten puppy shapes from white construction paper or card stock. Mount the puppy cutouts onto colorful paper and assign each puppy a number. Write the assigned number at the top of each page and place the counting mats in plastic document sleeves. Give your students dry erase crayons and invite them to color in the correct amount of spots on each Dalmatian (using the assigned number).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFire Safety\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse this time to teach children how to:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStop, drop, and roll.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDial 9-1-1.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStay low and go.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you can manage it, try taking your students on a \u003cstrong\u003efield trip to the fire house\u003c\/strong\u003e or set up an evening \"tour\" for kids and their families to participate in.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor more great firefighter themed activities, crafts, and extensions, visit Ms. Debbie's full post at Once Upon A Day In Preschool.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734089768985,"sku":"A3700","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Fire-Truck-Taber-Andrew-Bain.jpg?v=1522781608"},{"product_id":"community-helpers-police-officers-a3701","title":"Community Helpers: Police Officers","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-47\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Police.jpg\" alt=\"\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003ePolice officers help to keep our communities orderly and safe. Here are some great lesson ideas for the next chapter in your community helpers unit!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat Does A Police Officer Do?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce again, begin by introducing the day's community helper. We didn't mention it before, but it can be fun to create a character (e.g. Sheriff Nelson, Officer Nelson, etc.) and dress up as that character when making the introduction. If anything, your students will enjoy a bit of silliness to start the day! Detail the different roles of a police officer, what they wear, and even what they drive.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLearning About Safety Through Music\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDiscuss the importance of road signs and motor vehicle safety rules. Explain that police officers help to ensure that these rules are followed. Build on this idea by reminding students that, as pedestrians, they also have road safety procedures to remember. Discuss crosswalks, looking both ways, listening for cars, etc. Use songs like \"Look Both Ways\" by The Wiggles and \"Walk Across The Street\" by Barney to help your students remember the rules.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRemind your students that talking to strangers is dangerous. Also, discuss with them that they should never let anyone touch them who makes them feel unsafe. To help them learn about 'stranger danger' teach them Barney's \"Stranger Song\".\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePolice Officer Math\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePolice officers ensure that members of the community follow the \"rules\" (laws). Provide students with the challenge of following directions. Create recipe instruction cards (like the ones featured \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.playbasedlearning.com.au\/2010\/09\/recipe-card-collages\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e at Irresistible Ideas) that incorporate common police objects (e.g. badge, whistle cutouts, etc.). Have students follow the \"recipe\" to create fun collages while brushing up on their math and direction following skills!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePolice Officer Science\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProvide students with ink pads and sheets of paper. Invite them to create fingerprints. Discuss how everyone has a different fingerprint and, armed with magnifying glasses, have your students tour the classroom and examine their classmate's prints. You can also mix them up to create a matching game.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLiterature\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePoliceman Small\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e by Lois Lenski\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOfficer Buckle and Gloria\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e by Peggy Rathmann\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou might also consider taking a field trip to the police station or organizing an evening \"tour\" for students and their families.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734089867289,"sku":"A3701","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Police.jpg?v=1522781608"},{"product_id":"wow-words-bulletin-board-a1038","title":"WOW Words Vocabulary \u0026 Literacy Bulletin Board Idea","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-full wp-image-399 \" title=\"WOW Words - Tlittlejohn\" alt=\"Language Arts Vocabulary Words Bulletin Board Idea\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/WOW-Words-Tlittlejohn1.jpg\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: izzyshare.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLooking for a fun way to learn about and display vocabulary words in the classroom? Montevallo Elementary's first grade teaching duo, contributors to the website Izzyshare, designed this dynamic \"WOW words\" bulletin board to do just that! With each literacy unit, students explore definitions, known synonyms, sentence usage, and picture \"definitions\" of new vocabulary words while still being able to review words from previous literary selections and units. Here's how you can make your own exciting vocabulary display.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch1\u003eWOW Words Bulletin Board\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBackground:\u003c\/strong\u003e Black bulletin board paper.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTitle:\u003c\/strong\u003e \"WOW Words!\"\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBorder:\u003c\/strong\u003e Colorfully patterned trimmer, reading-themed bulletin border, complimentary solid colored bordette, or another bulletin board decoration of your choice.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDecoration:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1) The Literary Selections: At the beginning of the year, make and laminate a black and white print of each book your students will read throughout the school year. Place these around the outside edge of the board. As each unit is completed and each book is read, create vocabulary word labels and tape these to the literary selection they came from. 2) Exploring Vocabulary Section. Gather a piece of poster board or a large piece of bulletin board paper and a marker. Create a rectangular box in the middle of the paper. This will display the focus vocabulary word, then divide the poster board into four squares (be sure not to draw lines in the middle rectangle). At the top of each box, pen a different heading (e.g. \"Definition\", \"Picture\", \"Synonyms\" or \"Other Words\", and \"Connection\"). Cover the poster with clear contact paper and, paired with dry erase markers, you can use the same poster over and over again!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith this board, students will be reminded of the various vocabulary words they've discovered throughout the year, parents entering the classroom will be able to see what books their child is reading, and the dynamic display will provide wonderful classroom decoration all year long!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eDo you have a special vocabulary word display for your classroom? We'd love to hear about it! Leave a comment below.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"mpm-adbox\"\u003eShop on our online store at mpmSchoolSupplies.com where you can get all of your \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/c-48-office-classroom-supplies.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eclassroom supplies\u003c\/a\u003e. Whether you need supplies for your middle school classroom or \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003epreschool supplies\u003c\/a\u003e, we have you covered!\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734091014169,"sku":"A1038","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/WOW-Words-Tlittlejohn1.jpg?v=1522781615"},{"product_id":"halloween-literature-unit-the-magic-pumpkin-a2892","title":"Halloween Literature Unit: The Magic Pumpkin","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-133\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/The-Magic-Pumpkin.jpg\" alt=\"the magic pumpkin childrens book by martin and archambault\" 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#lesson1\" 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\u003eTo kick off the unit - and to use as a recurring theme throughout the lesson - Short suggests Martin and Archambault's \u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Magic Pumpkin\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLesson Objectives\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLearn about the basic parts of a story - beginning, middle, and end.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroduce the concept of sequencing.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAssess and promote listening and comprehension skills.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUpon reading the story, Short recommends having your kindergartners recount it for you. While prompts here and there may be needed, this activity will show, not only if students were listening, but how much they comprehended. Consider creating story cards that depict the most important events in the book and use them in one of the following ways:\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInvite student volunteers to place story cards in the correct order on a prepared story \"board\".\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDivide students into teams, provide each team member with a different story card, and have teams \"race\" to see who can line up in the correct order first.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCreate a 3-column organizational chart with the following headings - \"Beginning\", \"Middle\", \"End\". Have student volunteers categorize each story card.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor more of Short's recommended activities, be sure to read her full lesson plan!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734091505689,"sku":"A2892","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/The-Magic-Pumpkin.jpg?v=1522781618"},{"product_id":"halloween-literature-unit-little-critter-s-halloween-a2894","title":"Halloween Literature Unit: Little Critter’s Halloween","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-full wp-image-143 alignright\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Little-Critters-Halloween.jpg\" alt=\"mercer mayer's childrens book little critter\" 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#lesson5\" 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\u003eNot only will your students recognize the character of Short's next literature selection - Mercer Mayer's beloved Little Critter - they'll certainly be able to identify with the story as well!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLesson Objectives\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLearn about and be able to recognize different emotions.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDiscuss how our moods can be affected by our feelings.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStrengthen writing skills.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the story, Little Critter goes from grumpy to happy. Create a columned organizational chart with several emotion headings (e.g. \"Grumpy\", \"Happy\", \"Sad\", \"Mad\", etc.). Invite your students to brainstorm things that can evoke these emotions. Additionally, discuss how these feelings can affect our overall mood and how we interact with people and the world around us.\n\nConsider having your students create \"feeling\" books in the following format:\u003cimg class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-141\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Feeling-Book.jpg\" alt=\"exercise to learn about different emotions\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis exercise will help your students better understand their emotions and how these feelings present themselves when interacting with others and the world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor Short's activity suggestions, be sure to visit her full post!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734092161049,"sku":"A2894","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Little-Critters-Halloween.jpg?v=1522781622"},{"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":"halloween-literature-unit-creative-writing-project-a2896","title":"Halloween Literature Unit: Creative Writing Project","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e{Kimberly L. Short, lesson plan contributor to Educator’s Reference Desk, 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\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\u003eCreative Writing Project Objectives\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\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\u003cli\u003eLearn how to work in a group.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStrengthen writing skills.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShort suggests presenting your students with a pre-printed book, including illustrations, with which they are to write a story as a class. Consider shaping the illustrations around the pumpkin patch project or another subject your kindergartners are familiar with. Here is an example of what your book could look like (remember, you'll only be including the pictures at first so that your students can write their \u003cem\u003eown\u003c\/em\u003e story):\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/cdn.tristro.net\/uploads\/ideas\/post\/Unit-Writing-Project-Example.jpg\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-156\" alt=\"pumpkin life cycle example writing project\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Unit-Writing-Project-Example.jpg\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\n\n\u003cem\u003ePage Process\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePresent students with the illustration.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInvite students to describe what is going on in the picture. Write down each child's suggestion (attempt to capture it word-for-word so that the book reflects their voice as well).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRemind students to keep sequencing in mind (as it relates to the topic of the book) as well as whether the page belongs in the beginning, middle, or end of the book.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHelp students come to a consensus on which description is best.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the end of the unit, create a bound classroom copy of the book and present each child with a copy of their own to take home and share with their families!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor more information and directions, be sure to visit Short's full lesson plan!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734093045785,"sku":"A2896","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Unit-Writing-Project-Example.jpg?v=1522781628"},{"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":"american-indians-heritage-series-the-inuits-a2902","title":"American Indians Heritage Series: The Inuits","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\n    \u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/4951753554.jpg\" alt=\"Eskimo woman in fur trimmed costume\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto © 1904\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt’s hard to imagine what America looked like before roads and skyscrapers, let alone before easterners \"discovered' this new and untamed land. Do your students know that, even before Christopher Columbus arrived in the “new world”, there were groups of natives (original inhabitants of a place) spread out over the entire country? Known today by their rightful name, Native Americans, these groups or tribes of people were called Indians by Columbus who thought he’d reached a country called India. In honor of “American Indian Heritage Month\", this series of lessons will help your students get to know the various cultures and tribes of the original Americans.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eUnit Introduction\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGrab a globe and invite your students to gather around. Commissioned by the King and Queen of Spain in 1492, Columbus was enlisted to find a westward trading route to Asia. [Point out Spain and Asia on the globe.] At this point, easterners had no idea that the Americas even existed. Because of this very fact, when Columbus reached land nearly two and a half months after setting sail, he thought he’d landed in India. [Point out the “new world” and India on the globe. Discuss how far off the mark Columbus was.] Thus, the native peoples Columbus and his crew encountered were given the (very wrong) name, Indians.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eShow students a map of the Native American Cultures\/Groups inhabiting the Americas. Discuss how every part of the Americas is highlighted – showing that native communities were spread throughout both continents. Remind them that, while Native Americans have been stereotyped, not every native tribe was the same. Because of regional weather conditions and available resources, housing, dress, food, customs, and even tools\/weapons differed for each tribe. Let students know that they will be exploring the cultural differences of several Native American Tribes. [NOTE: Try to present the information for each cultural group in a similar format to make it easier for students to make comparisons and connections.]\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eThe Inuits (Eskimos)\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eLesson Objective\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLearn about the Inuit way of life: where they live, the climate in their region, housing, how they dress (both regularly and ceremonially), what they eat, their customs, transportation, and everyday tools\/weapons. Begin by showing students where the Inuit tribe is located on a Native American Cultures\/Groups Map and discuss the following information:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003ePertinent Data\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat:\u003c\/strong\u003e Arctic (North)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHousing:\u003c\/strong\u003e Igloos or tents\/houses made from animal skins, wood, sod, or mud\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eClothing:\u003c\/strong\u003e Sealskin parkas in the summer, caribou skin parkas in the winter, and boots made of walrus hide\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFood:\u003c\/strong\u003e Expert fisherman and hunters - the Inuits survived on seal, walrus, caribou and other animals\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTools\/Transportation:\u003c\/strong\u003e Harpoons, kayaks, umiaks (open boats made of wood and skin), and dog sleds\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eLesson Activities\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eLiterature \u0026amp; Writing\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChildren's Books.\u003c\/strong\u003e Debbie Haren, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.lessonplanspage.com\/SSLAAlaskaUnit1IntroWithBookK3.htm\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eHotchalk ® Lesson Plans Page\u003c\/a\u003e contributor, recommends Barbara M. Joosse’s \u003cem\u003eMama Do You Love Me?\u003c\/em\u003e The book presents many opportunities to discuss the wildlife found in the Inuit’s region (i.e. musk ox, moose, caribou, whales, ermine, etc.) and offers some fun cultural vocabulary words (i.e. mukluks = boots). You might also wish to include Robert N. Munsch’s \u003cem\u003eA Promise is A Promise\u003c\/em\u003e and Lydia Dabcovich's \u003cem\u003eThe Polar Bear Son: An Inuit Tale\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFishing For Letters Game.\u003c\/strong\u003e Because the Inuit’s were expert fisherman, create a fun fishing game with a dowel rod, yarn, magnet, and alphabet fish cutouts adorned with paper clips. Have students “fish” for letters and: 1) Identify and match the letters to an alphabet poster, 2) Practice early writing skills by copying the letter on the fish, or 3) Connect several of their “daily catches” together to create and review unit sight or vocabulary words.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eInuit Games\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBilboquet.\u003c\/strong\u003e Make this game using a toilet paper roll, string, and an unsharpened pencil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBlanket Tossing.\u003c\/strong\u003e Head to the gym and play some fun parachute games.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNauktak.\u003c\/strong\u003e Have students take turns laying down on the classroom rug and lining their feet up with its edge. Use a piece of masking tape to mark where the top of their head hits, then have the student stand at the edge of the rug and try to jump past the mark.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTug-O-War.\u003c\/strong\u003e With a rope and two teams, this is another activity perfect for the gym.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIllukisaaq.\u003c\/strong\u003e Provide students with soft balls and spread them out across the gym, teaching them the technique of juggling and allowing them to try.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEskimo Dominoes.\u003c\/strong\u003e The Inuits played matching games with dominoes. Have student participants draw tiles until all but one have been divided up. Start a \"train\" using the last domino then have students take turns matching their dominoes to one end, making a longer train.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eInuit Crafts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eScrimshaw Art.\u003c\/strong\u003e Inuits are famous for their scrimshaw technique where they engraved story images into ivory then rubbed them with lampblack. Using plaster of Paris, carving tools, and black shoe polish, have your students create their own \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mce.k12tn.net\/indians\/crafts\/inuitcrafts.htm\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003escrimshaw art.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIgloo Homes.\u003c\/strong\u003e With Styrofoam packing peanuts or floral foam cut into small cubes, have students design and build their own igloo model.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eGreat Resources\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.native-languages.org\/arctic-culture.htm\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eNative American Language Net | Arctic Indian Tribes and Languages\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.civilization.ca\/splash.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eCanadian Museum of Civilization\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.gamesmuseum.uwaterloo.ca\/VirtualExhibits\/Inuit\/english\/index.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eUniversity of Waterloo Elliott Avedon Virtual Museum of Games | Inuit (Eskimo) Games\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHave fun exploring the culture of the Inuits!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734096093209,"sku":"A2902","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/4951753554.jpg?v=1522781646"},{"product_id":"the-inuit-way-of-life-a3716","title":"The Inuit Way of Life","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\n    \u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/4951162783.jpg\" alt=\"Eskimo girl named Minnie\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto © 1906 \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.flickr.com\/people\/8337233@N06\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eUniversity of Washington Libraries Digital Collections\u003c\/a\u003e | \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/8337233@N06\/4951162783\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003emore info \u003c\/a\u003e (via: \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/wylio.com\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eWylio\u003c\/a\u003e)\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e{It's important for children to understand the history of our country - even before\u003cem\u003e it became a nation in 1776. November being \"American Indian Heritage Month\" makes it a great time to explore the various native peoples and cultures that could be found in America before the land was \"discovered\" and settled by easterners. This series of lessons attempts to introduce your preschoolers to the original Americans.}\n\n\u003ch2\u003eUnit Introduction\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHaving been granted the proper permissions, take your students on a trip to an \"unknown\" part of the school (i.e. the gym locker rooms, the teacher's lounge, the janitor's closet, etc.). Before opening the door, ask your students if they know what's behind it. Take a few answers and then unveil the mystery room. Explain to your students that, at one time, the world seemed just as big and \"unknown\" as the school seems at times. They will be surprised to find out that, just like they had no idea the mystery room in the school existed, many people didn't know that America existed (or the native peoples occupying it!)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBack in the classroom, find a globe and show students where Spain, Asia, and America are located. Introduce Columbus - his mission, his journey, and his discovery.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eProvide your students with a map of America and ask them where they think the Native Americans lived before Columbus arrived. Next, show them a map of the Native American Cultures\/Groups inhabiting the Americas. Discuss how every part of the Americas is highlighted – showing that native communities were spread throughout both continents.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eArmed with a piece of printer paper and graphic art tools, have your students draw an Indian. Discuss different stereotypes - clothing, houses, language, etc. (at their level of course) - explaining that not all Native Americans dressed or acted in these ways. Because of differences in environment and resources, there were notable differences between each cultural group and tribe. Let your students know that they will be learning about these very differences in the next unit.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eThe Inuit (Eskimos)\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe objective of this lesson is to teach your preschoolers about the Inuit way of life - where they live, the climate in their region, housing, how they dress (both regularly and ceremonially), what they eat, their customs, transportation, and everyday tools\/weapons.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eBasic Information\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat:\u003c\/strong\u003e Arctic (North)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHousing:\u003c\/strong\u003e Igloos or tents\/houses made from animal skins, wood, sod, or mud\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eClothing:\u003c\/strong\u003e Sealskin parkas in the summer, caribou skin parkas in the winter, and boots made of walrus hide\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFood:\u003c\/strong\u003e Expert fisherman and hunters - the Inuits survived on seal, walrus, caribou and other animals\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTools\/Transportation:\u003c\/strong\u003e Harpoons, kayaks, umiaks (open boats made of wood and skin), and dog sleds\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eLiterature \u0026amp; Songs\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.preschooleducation.com\/swinter.shtml\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eFive Little Eskimos\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e Song \u0026gt;\u0026gt; Consider designing finger puppets for a fun fingerplay.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eMama Do You Love Me?\u003c\/em\u003e by Barbara M. Joosse.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eThe Polar Bear Son: An Inuit Tale\u003c\/em\u003e by Lydia Dabcovich.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eDress Like An Eskimo Activity\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDiscuss with your students what the weather is like in the Arctic. Show them pictures of the clothing worn by the Inuits. To help them understand the \u003cem\u003emany\u003c\/em\u003e layers worn by this Native American tribe, take turns dressing students like Eskimos. Be sure to collect the following to put over student clothing:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBulky sweatshirt = Inuit \"inner\" coat.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSweatpants = Inuit \"inner\" pants.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSnow pants = Inuit \"outer\" pants.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSnow parka = Inuit \"outer\" coat.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLarge thermal socks = Inuit stockings.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSnow boots = Inuit \"mukluks\".\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLeather work gloves = Inuit mittens.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKnitted hat and fur hood\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGoggles\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt might also be fun to collect several Eskimo \"outfits\" then have a relay race - students are divided into teams, the first player on each team is helped into the outfit, completes a task (i.e. 'runs' to the end of the mat and back balancing a craft pom pom on a plastic spoon, etc.), races back to the finish line, transfers the Eskimo outfit to the next player in line who must complete the same task, and this process repeats until all team members have played. The team who does it the quickest, wins!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eInuit Sensory Table\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConsider filling your sensory table with Insta-Snow™ and Inuit-themed objects - plastic animals (seals, whales, caribou, dogs, etc.), boats, small Styrofoam blocks (for igloo building!), and other fun items! Your preschoolers will be delighted with the change - and amazed to find snow \u003cem\u003einside\u003c\/em\u003e, in \u003cem\u003eNovember!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\nFor more great lesson ideas, games, crafts, etc. be sure to check out \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/ideas\/2902\/american-indians-heritage-series-the-inuits\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ethis American Indians Heritage Series: The Inuits\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.native-languages.org\/inuktitut.htm\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eNative Languages of the Americas\u003c\/a\u003e is another a great resource for learning about Inuit heritage, traditions, and way of life!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734096158745,"sku":"A3716","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/4951162783.jpg?v=1522781646"},{"product_id":"american-indians-heritage-series-the-tlingits-a2903","title":"American Indians Heritage Series: The Tlingits","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\n    \u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/2635656158.jpg\" alt=\"Totem Pole\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto © 2008 \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.flickr.com\/people\/14869313@N00\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eDavid Baron\u003c\/a\u003e | \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/14869313@N00\/2635656158\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003emore info \u003c\/a\u003e (via: \u003ca title=\"free pictures\" href=\"http:\/\/wylio.com\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eWylio\u003c\/a\u003e)\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e{It’s hard to imagine what America looked like before roads and skyscrapers, let alone before easterners “discovered’ this new and untamed land. Do your students know that, even before Christopher Columbus arrived in the “new world”, there were groups of natives (original inhabitants of a place) spread out over the entire country? Known today by their rightful name, Native Americans, these groups or tribes of people were called Indians by Columbus who thought he’d reached a country called India. In honor of “American Indian Heritage Month”, this series of lessons will help your students get to know the various cultures and tribes of the original Americans.}\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eThe Tlingits\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eLesson Objective\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLearn about the Tlingit way of life: where they live, the climate in their region, housing, how they dress (both regularly and ceremonially), what they eat, their customs, transportation, and everyday tools\/weapons. Begin by showing students where the Tlingit tribe is located on a Native American Cultures\/Groups Map and discuss the following information:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePertinent Data\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat:\u003c\/strong\u003e Pacific Northwest Coast\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHousing:\u003c\/strong\u003e Made from cedar planks and faced the sea - most housed 30 to 40 Tlingits\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eClothing:\u003c\/strong\u003e Capes, skirts, and hats were woven from cedar strips and many Tlingit men and women had ear\/nose rings, tattoos, and disks pierced through their lower lip\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFood:\u003c\/strong\u003e Expert fishermen, hunters, and gathers - the most notable Tlingit fare included salmon, seals, otters, and whales\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTools\/Transportation:\u003c\/strong\u003e Cedar canoes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eLesson Activities\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eLiterature\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHow Raven Stole The Sun\u003c\/strong\u003e by Maria Williams.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRaven: A Trickster Tale from the Pacific Northwest\u003c\/strong\u003e by Gerald McDermott.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eIf You Lived With The Indians Of The Northwest Coast\u003c\/strong\u003e by Anne Kamma.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTotem Tale: A Tall Story from Alaska\u003c\/strong\u003e by Deb Vanasse.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThe Tlingit\u003c\/strong\u003e by Alice Osinski.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eTlingit Music\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTlingit Rattles.\u003c\/strong\u003e Have students create their own Tlingit rattles using toilet paper rolls and rice. Invite them to use markers to \"carve\" images around the roll then secure the ends (and the rice) with masking tape. Be sure to show them images of authentic \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.northwestcoastindian.com\/rattles.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eTlingit rattles\u003c\/a\u003e!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTlingit Box Drums.\u003c\/strong\u003e The Tlingits were known for their \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.native-drums.ca\/index.php\/Drums\/Butterfly\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ewooden box drums\u003c\/a\u003e - with frames made out of wood and painted animal skins stretched over them. Make a similar instrument with this coffee can drum tutorial from \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/crafts.kaboose.com\/coffee-can-drum.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eKaboose\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNative Music.\u003c\/strong\u003e Download several Tlingit music tracks from iTunes or other internet sites to play for your students. With their newly created instruments, have students play along!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eTlingit Crafts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTlingit Totem Poles.\u003c\/strong\u003e The Tlingit peoples were known for their cedar totem poles. Have students collect several square boxes, wrap them with brown paper, and decorate their own totem pole using some of the common \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.gullitotempoles.com\/TotemPoleSymbols.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003etotem pole symbols\u003c\/a\u003e. You can also follow the directions at Family Fun to make a \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/familyfun.go.com\/crafts\/tin-can-totem-poles-667754\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003etin can totem pole\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTlingit Weaving.\u003c\/strong\u003e The Tlingits were also exceptional weavers. They wove hats, clothing, baskets, and more! Follow the directions of this simple \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/thatartistwoman.blogspot.com\/2010\/09\/basket-weaving-using-recycled.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ebasket weaving craft\u003c\/a\u003e and help your students get a taste of Tlingit living!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHave fun bringing the culture of the Tlingits to your classroom!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.native-languages.org\/tlingit.htm\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eTlingit Language and the Tlingit Indian Tribe | Native Languages of the Americas\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/edsitement.neh.gov\/printable_lesson_plan.asp?id=347\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eNative American Cultures Across the U.S. | EDSITEment Lesson\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/edsitement.neh.gov\/printable_lesson_plan.asp?id=378\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eTraditions and Languages of Three Native Cultures: Tlingit, Lakota, \u0026amp; Cherokee | EDSITEment Lesson\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734096322585,"sku":"A2903","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/2635656158.jpg?v=1522781648"},{"product_id":"the-tlingit-way-of-life-a3717","title":"The Tlingit Way of Life","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\n    \u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/8757746.jpg\" alt=\"Totem Bight Totem Pole - 1\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto © 2005 \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.flickr.com\/people\/42769910@N00\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eChris Lott\u003c\/a\u003e | \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/42769910@N00\/8757746\" 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{It’s important for children to understand the history of our country – even before it became a nation in 1776. November being “American Indian Heritage Month” makes it a great time to explore the various native peoples and cultures that could be found in America before the land was “discovered” and settled by easterners. This series of lessons attempts to introduce your preschoolers to the original Americans.}\n\n\u003ch2\u003eThe Tlingit\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe objective of this lesson is to teach your preschoolers about the Tlingit way of life – where they live, the climate in their region, housing, how they dress (both regularly and ceremonially), what they eat, their customs, transportation, and everyday tools\/weapons.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eBasic Information\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat:\u003c\/strong\u003e Pacific Northwest Coast\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHousing:\u003c\/strong\u003e Made from cedar planks and faced the sea - most housed 30 to 40 Tlingits\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eClothing:\u003c\/strong\u003e Capes, skirts, and hats were woven from cedar strips and many Tlingit men and women had ear\/nose rings, tattoos, and disks pierced through their lower lip\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFood:\u003c\/strong\u003e Expert fishermen, hunters, and gathers - the most notable Tlingit fare included salmon, seals, otters, and whales\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTools\/Transportation:\u003c\/strong\u003e Cedar canoes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eLiterature\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eHow Raven Stole The Sun\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e by Maria Williams.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eRaven: A Trickster Tale from the Pacific Northwest\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e by Gerald McDermott.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eIf You Lived With The Indians Of The Northwest Coast\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e by Anne Kamma.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eTotem Tale: A Tall Story from Alaska\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e by Deb Vanasse.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Tlingit\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e by Alice Osinski.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTlingit Crafts\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCeremonial Masks.\u003c\/strong\u003e The Tlingit peoples were known for their \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.native-languages.org\/masks.htm\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ewooden ceremonial masks\u003c\/a\u003e. Provide your preschoolers with a plastic \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/p-9397-pulp-mask.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003epulp mask\u003c\/a\u003e. Before class, enlist the help of parents to create animal mask \"kits\" from Wonderfoam® sheets (e.g. cut out the pieces necessary for an eagle mask, bear mask, etc.). Armed with glue and these animal kits, invite your students to assemble their very own ceremonial mask!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWoven Hats.\u003c\/strong\u003e The Tlingits were (and still are!) expert weavers. They wove everything from clothing to baskets, including hats woven from roots. As a fun craft, provide students with inexpensive straw hats, paintbrushes, and craft paint. Invite them to decorate their hats in the style of the Tlingit people - with animals and other symbols important to the tribe (like the ones found \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.washington.edu\/burkemuseum\/baskets\/artists\/hats.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e). You may wish to consider templates or stencils for you preschoolers to follow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTlingit Games\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJackstraws.\u003c\/strong\u003e This game, played by the Tlingits with wooden sticks and wooden hooks, is similar to Pick-Up Sticks, providing your preschoolers with counting practice as well as a way to strengthen manual dexterity. While they'll most likely need supervision to play, your students will enjoy this taste of Tlingit culture!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIvory \u0026amp; Wooden Dice Game.\u003c\/strong\u003e Played with a \"chair\" shaped die, this game could be adapted for the use of a regular die. You'd need to change the scoring rules, etc., but students would still learn about Tlingit culture and get some number recognition and counting practice at the same time!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor more games indigenous to the Alaskan\/Pacific Northwest Coast, be sure to visit \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.ankn.uaf.edu\/Curriculum\/NativeGames\/resource.html\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eAlaska Native Knowledge Network\u003c\/a\u003e. For other crafts, lesson tips, and information, you might also find the following resources useful:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mpmschoolsupplies.com\/ideas\/2903\/american-indians-heritage-series-the-tlingits\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eAmerican Indians Heritage Series: The Tlingits | Kindergarten Lesson Plans\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.native-languages.org\/tlingit.htm\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eTlingit Language and the Tlingit Indian Tribe | Native Languages of the Americas\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/edsitement.neh.gov\/printable_lesson_plan.asp?id=347\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eNative American Cultures Across the U.S. | EDSITEment Lesson\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/edsitement.neh.gov\/printable_lesson_plan.asp?id=378\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eTraditions and Languages of Three Native Cultures: Tlingit, Lakota, \u0026amp; Cherokee | EDSITEment Lesson\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.ankn.uaf.edu\/index.html\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eAlaska Native Knowledge Network\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.bigorrin.org\/tlingit_kids.htm\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eFacts for Kids: Tlingit Indians (Tlingits)\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHave a wonderful time bringing the Tlingit culture to life in your classroom!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734096355353,"sku":"A3717","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/8757746.jpg?v=1522781648"},{"product_id":"three-two-one-blast-off-a3732","title":"Three…Two…One…BLAST OFF!","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\n    \u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/2940634813.jpg\" alt=\"Coronet Cluster: A Neighbor of Star Formation\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto © 2008 \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.flickr.com\/people\/25053835@N03\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eSmithsonian Institution\u003c\/a\u003e | \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/25053835@N03\/2940634813\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003emore info\u003c\/a\u003e (via: \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/wylio.com\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eWylio\u003c\/a\u003e)\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThematic units provide a great way for your students to explore different concepts in a creative, yet focused manner. If you're looking for a way to spice up your curriculum this January, consider looking up - introducing your students to ASTRONAUTS \u0026amp; SPACE! Here are some great ideas to get your unit started:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eSensory Bin Fun\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLisa, homeschooler and creator of the blog \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/cheeriosunderfoot.blogspot.com\/2010\/08\/solar-system-sensory-bin.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eCheerios Underfoot\u003c\/a\u003e, created this spectacular outer space sensory bin using black marbles, homemade planets, and space themed erasers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\n\t \u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Solar-System-Sensory-Bin-e1294102082649.jpg\" alt=\"outer space sensory bin\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: Cheerios Underfoot\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMari-Ann of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/countingcoconuts.blogspot.com\/2011\/01\/january-sensory-tub-playdough.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eCounting Coconuts\u003c\/a\u003e designed this exciting sensory bin - its navy aquarium rocks reminiscent of the night sky while the super (bouncy) balls and jacks double as planets and stars. For a complete list of items, be sure to visit Mari-Ann's full post!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\n\t \u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Space-Sensory-Bin.jpg\" alt=\"space sensory bin\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: Counting Coconuts\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFine Motor Fun\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor some great fine motor fun, try some of the following activities, created by Mari-Ann of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/countingcoconuts.blogspot.com\/2011\/01\/on-our-shelves-january.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eCounting Coconuts\u003c\/a\u003e:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConstellation Pin Punching. Print individual constellation dot-to-dots, have students complete the exercise then, armed with a jumbo push pin, have students punch a hole in each dot. [Shown left]\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlanet Lacing. Create card stock or craft foam planet shapes, punch holes around the edges, and invite your students to practice lacing.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSifting Planets. Place several marbles into a large bowl filled with rice (dyed navy to resemble the night sky). Provide students with a flat, slotted turner (kitchen utensil) and have them sift for planets.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\n\t \u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/CC-Constellation-Pin-Punching.jpg\" alt=\"constellation pin punching\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: Counting Coconuts\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSpace Math\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJo of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.makinglearningfun.com\/themepages\/SpaceCountdownCards.htm\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eMaking Learning Fun\u003c\/a\u003e created these countdown to blastoff cards to help your preschoolers practice number recognition and counting skills.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\n\t \u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/MLF-Countdown-Sequence.jpg\" alt=\"space themed math counting game\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: Making Learning Fun\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn her Astronaut Preschool Pack, Jolanthe of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/homeschoolcreations.blogspot.com\/2011\/01\/astronaut-preschool-pack.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eHomeschool Creations\u003c\/a\u003e provides an awesome worksheet to help your preschoolers distinguish between small, medium, and large rockets as well as practice sequencing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\n\t \u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/HC-Rocket-Sequencing.jpg\" alt=\"worksheet with little to big rockets for sequencing practice\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: Homeschool Creations\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSkill Worksheets\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlso in \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/homeschoolcreations.blogspot.com\/2011\/01\/astronaut-preschool-pack.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eJolanthe's\u003c\/a\u003e Astronaut Preschool Pack is this color recognition\/matching exercise among other great activities!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\n\t \u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/HC-Color-Rockets.jpg\" alt=\"space themed color recognition exercise\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: Homeschool Creations\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eChildren's Literature\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMy Place in Space by Joan Sweeney\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThere's No Place Like Space by Dr. Seuss\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOn The Moon by Anna Milbourne\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eI Want to be an Astronaut by Byron Barton\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOn the Launch Pad by Michael Dahl\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCurious George and the Rocket by H. A. Rey\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFun Projects\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMake miniature planetariums using recycled paper towel rolls. Tape a piece of black paper to one end and use push pins to gently create constellations in the black paper. Hold the tube up to the light to see the constellation.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCover a table with a large piece of black fabric. Use glow in the dark stars to create constellations on the underside of the table and take turns stargazing in your homemade planetarium.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCreate stardust jars using oil, water, food coloring, and glitter in a recycled plastic bottle.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith all of these great exercises, activities, and lessons, your students are sure to love exploring SPACE from the classroom!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734100942873,"sku":"A3732","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/2940634813.jpg?v=1522781675"},{"product_id":"how-animals-prepare-for-the-winter-a2911","title":"How Animals Prepare for the Winter","description":"\u003cfigure\u003e\n    \u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/4405088770.jpg\" alt=\"Deperessed and posing bear\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003e\n\t\tphoto © 2010 \n        \u003ca title=\"click to visit the Flickr profile page for Tambako The Jaguar\" href=\"http:\/\/www.flickr.com\/people\/8070463@N03\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eTambako The Jaguar\u003c\/a\u003e | \n        \u003ca title=\"get more information about the photo 'Deperessed and posing bear'\" href=\"http:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/8070463@N03\/4405088770\" 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\u003eWilla, a \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.brighthub.com\/education\/k-12\/articles\/9203.aspx\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eBright Hub\u003c\/a\u003e lesson plan contributor, has written a wonderful lesson for teaching your kindergartners about animals and their special abilities for preparing for the winter and taking care of themselves. You'll discuss various concepts like hibernation, food storage, growing thicker fur, etc., building vocabulary and problem solving skills in the process.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLesson Introduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWilla suggests reading Carls R. Sams II and Jean Stoick's \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStranger in the Woods\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e as an introduction to the lesson. The book contains pictures of real animals in their winter habitat. You might also consider searching online for pictures of animals, then creating a slide show for your students to view and discuss.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIntroduce the concept of hibernation and brainstorm other ways in which animals prepare for the cold winter months (i.e. birds migrate to warmer climates, bears and other mammals adapt by growing thicker fur, etc.). Keep a list of each child's contribution to the discussion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHibernation Station\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNext, Willa suggests reading Denise Fleming's \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTime to Sleep\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e and gathering materials for your students to make their own hibernation diorama. Consider also an exercise in pretend play. Ask your students to brainstorm items that \u003cem\u003ethey\u003c\/em\u003e would need to build a cozy den if they were to hibernate. Collect blankets, pillows, cushions, and all the fixings for a kid-friendly \"hibernation station\", turn the lights down low, and have a fun snack while Fleming's or another recommended story:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eWake Me in Spring\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e by James Preller.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eAnimals Prepare for Winter\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e by Elaine Pascoe.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eSleepy Bear\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e by Lydia Dadcovich\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eSleepy Bears\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e by Mem Fox\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Animals' Winter Sleep\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e by Lynda Graham-Barber and Nancy Carol Willis.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHibernation Math \u0026amp; Science\n\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMake a bar graph of days in hibernation to find out which animal hibernates the longest? Shortest?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCompare an animal's heart rate while hibernating to its normal heart rate.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePractice counting with teddy grahams and \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/lilteacher.com\/hibernation.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ecave counting mats\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eComplete the \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/lilteacher.com\/hibernation.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ebear hibernation experiment\u003c\/a\u003e (a folded newspaper bear cutout will unfold when placed in warm water just like bears \"wake up\" when warmer weather comes).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor more lesson ideas, be sure to visit Willa's full post at BrightHub!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734101041177,"sku":"A2911","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/4405088770.jpg?v=1522781676"},{"product_id":"winter-with-the-k-crew-a2912","title":"Winter with the K-Crew","description":"\u003cfigure\u003e\n    \u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/2177980496.jpg\" alt=\"Winter dreams\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003e\n\t\tphoto © 2008 \n        \u003ca title=\"click to visit the Flickr profile page for James Jordan\" href=\"http:\/\/www.flickr.com\/people\/69826987@N00\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eJames Jordan\u003c\/a\u003e | \n        \u003ca title=\"get more information about the photo 'Winter dreams'\" href=\"http:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/69826987@N00\/2177980496\" 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\u003ePerusing for winter ideas, we came across \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.thekcrew.net\/winter.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eThe K-Crew's website\u003c\/a\u003e - a fantastic resource for kindergarten teachers created by (in their own words) two \u003cem\u003ereal\u003c\/em\u003e teachers who teach \u003cem\u003ereal\u003c\/em\u003e students in \u003cem\u003ereal\u003c\/em\u003e classrooms! We decided to check out their winter thematic unit and there were so many great ideas we just had to share!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMath \u0026amp; Science\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExperiment with Static Electricity. Ever notice the boom in static electricity during the winter? The K-Crew set up a \"Static Magic\" station where students explored this very concept using felt, balloons, confetti, and other interesting materials.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGraphing. Ask your students a simple yes\/no question (i.e. \"Have you ever thrown a snowball?\", \"Have you ever caught a snowflake on your tongue?\", etc.) or provide them with a multiple choice question (i.e. \"My favorite winter activity is...A.) Sledding, B.) Ice skating, or C.) Building a snowman.\") and graph the results. Discuss concepts like \"more than\", \"less than\", \"most\", \"least\", etc.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEstimation. At the beginning of each winter month, place a jar of winter-themed counters at the front of the room (i.e. marshmallows, candy canes, etc.) and accept student estimation submissions. As a class, count the number of objects in the jar and compare it to the predictions. Create a chart or graph showing the number of student guesses within +\/-20, +\/-10, etc. of the actual number.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOther ideas including growing snowflakes, discovering states of matter and density with ice cubes and oil, and learning the importance of warm clothing in the winter. Check out the full post for more information and instructions to these cool projects!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLanguage \u0026amp; Literature\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWinter Journaling. Invite students to prepare and decorate a winter journal - from scratch or using small store-bought notebooks - then take a look at the great writing prompts and journal activities at The K-Crew's website! You're sure to boost their writing confidence and journal entries make great opening, transition, or ending activities!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRead, Read, Read! The K-Crew duo provides an excellent list of children's literature as well as appropriate lessons and discussions for each selection at their site including \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFootprints in the Snow\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e by Cynthia Benjamin, \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHere Comes Winter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e by Janet Craig, and \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMy Favorite Time of Year\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/em\u003eby Susan Pearson among many others!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLearning Stations\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe K-Crew offers many learning stations throughout the winter unit targeting different skill sets like fine motor, art, writing, etc. Here are a few highlights:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSewing mittens\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePuffy snow painting\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eScribble art (they have two incredible resource books for this type of activity!)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStamping\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnd the list goes on and on! The K-Crew really knows how to put a thematic unit together so be sure to check out their site and all their wonderful early childhood resources!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734101172249,"sku":"A2912","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/2177980496.jpg?v=1522781677"},{"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":"the-wonderful-world-of-wordless-picture-books-a2267","title":"The Wonderful World of Wordless Picture Books","description":"\u003cp\u003eWant to infuse story time with new life? Wordless picture books are a great way to get your students' imaginations working! According to Barbara Brand, the youth services manager of Kansas' Johnson County Library, wordless picture books offer value to children of all ages.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy Read Wordless Books?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSummary of the Benefit of Wordless Picture Books\n\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSpark childrens' imaginations\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExpand vocabulary\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eImprove overall reading skills\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe 6 by 6 Program \u0026amp; Wordless Books\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe staff at the Johnson County Library has created a wonderful program for parents, teachers, and other child caregivers to use as a guide when preparing young children to read called \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.jocolibrary.org\/default.aspx?id=14147\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003e6 by 6\u003c\/a\u003e, titled for the six skills each child should acquire before age six (the time they usually begin to learn to read). Wordless books play a great role in teaching children these six essential pre-reading skills - encouraging students to have fun with books (#1), notice print all around (#2), develop vocabulary (#3), and tell stories (#4). For a complete list of the six essential skills, be sure to visit 6 by 6's site through the link above! You'll also find links to several videos where members of the library staff share their favorite wordless children's books and how they like to incorporate them in story time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick List of Wordless Books\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBlue Sea\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e by Robert Kalan\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eA Boy, a Dog and a Frog\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e by Mercer Meyer\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDo You Want to be My Friend?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e by Eric Carle\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCarl's Birthday\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e by Alexandra Day\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFarm Charm\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e by Kaaren Pixton\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGood Dog, Carl\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e by Alexandra Day\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs it Red, is it Yellow, is it Blue?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e by Tana Hoban\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJack Wants a Snack\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e by Pat Schories\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePicnic\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e by Emily Arnold McCully\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePuss in Boots\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e by John S. Goodall\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTuesday\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e by David Weisner\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBe sure to take advantage of this wonderful resource!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.jocolibrary.org\/templates\/JCL_InfoPage.aspx?id=14515\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eFinger Plays and \"Reading\" Wordless Picture Books - JoCoLibrary\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734101303321,"sku":"A2267","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"transportation-unit-a2914","title":"Transportation Unit","description":"\u003cfigure\u003e\n    \u003cimg src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/1368677930.jpg\" alt=\"Weird School Bus\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003e\n    \tphoto © 2007 \n        \u003ca title=\"click to visit the Flickr profile page for Kevin\" href=\"http:\/\/www.flickr.com\/people\/17021192@N00\" target=\"_blank\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eKevin\u003c\/a\u003e\n\t\t|\n        \u003ca title=\"get more information about the photo 'Weird School Bus'\" href=\"http:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/17021192@N00\/1368677930\" 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\u003eTricia Bardillo, a \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.lessonplanspage.com\/SSMDOTransportationUnitK.htm\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eHotChalk® LessonPlansPage\u003c\/a\u003e contributor, created this awesome, multidisciplinary transportation unit that is sure to be a hit with the kindergarten crowd! She includes writing, reading, and pretend play exercises, as well as other center activities for the week, constructing the lesson around four different forms of transportation: cars, buses, bicycles, and trains.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWriting Center Activities\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCreate transportation journals where students can draw and write about their favorite modes of transportation (i.e. bicycles, airplanes, helicopters, etc.). Consider providing each child with a set of transportation flash cards like the examples below. They are simple to make - all you need is word processing software, free clipart images from the internet, and a printer! \u003cimg class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-331\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Transportation-Unit-Flash-Cards.jpg\" alt=\"example transportation vehicle flash cards\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003eInvite students to paste the card into their journal - coloring it and tracing the word - and write descriptive words in the opposite page or around the card (i.e. big, loud, green, fast, etc.)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePractice simple sentence writing using vehicle names and simple descriptors. You might consider making use of the transportation flash cards in this activity as well. Here are some examples: \u003cimg class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-332\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Transportation-Simple-Sentences.jpg\" alt=\"sample simple sentences with transportation flash cards and adjectives\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003eYou might also consider creating adjective cards for students to trace as well.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSet up a center for creating safety and traffic signs to place around the classroom.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCircle Time: Literature \u0026amp; Songs\n\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBardillo suggests \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eStop and Go\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e, an interactive book for your kiddos to color as they read, as well as several Donald Crews selections. Here are a few other transportation books that we found:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eRed, Stop! Green, Go!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e by P.D. Eastman.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eThomas \u0026amp; Friends: Go, Train, Go!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e by Rev. W. Awdry.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Big Book of Transportation\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e by Caroline Bingham.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eOn the Go!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e by Teresa Imperato.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI'm sure there are many, many more great literature selections as well! NOTE: Be sure to choose a book to go along with each form of transportation studied.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou can find other selections at Bardillos' full post, from \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.perpetualpreschool.com\/preschool_themes\/transportation\/newpage41.htm\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ePerpetual Preschool\u003c\/a\u003e, at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.preschooleducation.com\/sland.shtml\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ePreschool Education\u003c\/a\u003e, and \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.songsforteaching.com\/transportation.htm\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eSongs for Teaching\u003c\/a\u003e, but here are a few of the traditional transportation songs:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe Wheels on the Bus.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDown by the Station\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=2c68qD_NExQ\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eTransportation Song\u003c\/a\u003e by Peter Weatherall.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor more lesson details and creative ideas for your block center, pretend play corner, craft time, and more, be sure to visit Bardillo's full post! You might also consider checking out the book, \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eCrafts for Kids Who Are Learning About Transportation\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e by Kathy Ross and Jan Barger from your local library for extra project ideas! And while Bardillo only incorporates a few modes of transportation, don't be afraid to expand on the lesson, including construction vehicles, emergency vehicles, air travel, water travel, etc.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734101598233,"sku":"A2914","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/1368677930.jpg?v=1522781679"},{"product_id":"fruity-fun-thematic-unit-amp-the-very-hungry-caterpillar-a3736","title":"Fruity Fun Thematic Unit \u0026amp; The Very Hungry Caterpillar","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-461\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/The-Very-Hungry-Caterpillar.jpg\" alt=\"The Very Hungry Caterpillar book cover\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003eThis multidisciplinary lesson\/unit, created by Karen Evans - contributor to the HotChalk® LessonPlansPage - not only introduces students to the importance of fruit, but will help to cultivate important science skills as well as the concept of applied reading. Designed for preschool through kindergarten, Evans suggests setting aside a week to complete each of the lessons (or, of course, picking and choosing exercises to suit your needs!).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFruity Science\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEach day, provide students with a selection of fruits, inviting them to use their senses to observe and describe each fruit. Here's a brief overview of the activity and the types of discussions to have with your students as they explore: \u003cimg class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-459\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Five-Senses-Fruit-Observation-Activity.jpg\" alt=\"how to observe fruit using the five senses example activity overview\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003eBe sure to provide tools for observation like magnifying glasses and microscopes. You might also consider bringing in a blender to compare how each fruit looks after it's been mashed!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStudy and compare fruit seeds. Provide students with tweezers, magnifying glasses, and microscopes for observation. Test student memory by providing them with several seed selections and several fruit selections and inviting them to make the appropriate match.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFruity Math\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePredict how many seeds you'll find in an apple. Count them and compare the actual number to the predicted amount.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFill a jar with blueberries. Invite students to estimate how many are in the jar then count and compare.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHave students keep a like\/dislike fruit chart to update throughout the week.\u003cimg class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-460\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/My-Fruit-Preferences.jpg\" alt=\"example fruit preference chart\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003eAt the end of the unit, compile the class' preferences to create a like\/dislike bar graph for each fruit. Then, have students vote for their favorite fruit, creating a graph of the results.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFruity Literature \u0026amp; Skill Practice\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEvans suggests using Eric Carle's \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Very Hungry Caterpillar\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e as the unit's literature selection - recommending that it's read each day. [Here's a spectacular \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=HpISHA8Fs4w\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003e'animated' version\u003c\/a\u003e of the book we found on YouTube!] In addition to its references to fruit, this popular children's book is perfect for reviewing the days of the week, numbers, and the concept of sequencing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor more lesson details and instructions, be sure to visit Evans' full post \u0026gt;\u0026gt; \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.lessonplanspage.com\/ScienceMathLAMDFruityFunUnitPK.htm\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eFruity Fun\u003c\/a\u003e!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734101631001,"sku":"A3736","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/The-Very-Hungry-Caterpillar.jpg?v=1522781680"},{"product_id":"smoriescom-children-reading-stories-aloud-a2275","title":"Smories.com - Children Reading Stories Aloud","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.smories.com\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003e\u003cimg title=\"Smories-Website\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Smories-Website.jpg\" alt=\"videos of children reading stories aloud\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: Smories.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\nReading {and rereading!} passages and books aloud is a great way to help students improve fluency and comprehension, as well as gain confidence as readers. In perusing some of our favorite crafting and lesson sites, courtesy of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.livinglocurto.com\/2011\/02\/smories\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eLiving Locurto\u003c\/a\u003e we came across \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.smories.com\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eSmories.com\u003c\/a\u003e, a website created by Lisa Swerling and Ralph Lazar where teachers, parents, and students can access videos of stories being read aloud by children. Not only does this make a great resource for story time and transition between activities {it can be fascinating for kids to hear others their own age reading}, it provides inspiration for a fun classroom project as well!\n\u003cp\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSupplies You'll Need\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDigital video camera\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTripod\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChildren's books\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHave your students to pick their favorite children's book and invite them to spend the week - at home and during free time at school - reading it aloud, getting comfortable with the vocabulary, phrasing, and speed. Introduce the idea of capturing their storytelling on video. Some students will jump at the chance while, for others, the idea can cause anxiety, so be sensitive to your students' needs and feelings. These videos can make great keepsakes and classroom resources!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eVariations\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDo an \"echo reading\" with each student - reading a passage from the book and having them repeat it.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHave students read with a partner or group.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRecord the entire class reading a story or reader's theater.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e[NOTE: This could also be a great extra credit project for your middle and high school students - reading popular children's books and poetry on camera to create a resource that teachers and students can use in the early childhood classroom!]\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734103302169,"sku":"A2275","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Smories-Website.jpg?v=1522781690"},{"product_id":"lessons-for-childrens-dental-health-month-a2920","title":"Lessons for Children's Dental Health Month","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\" wp-image-1816 \" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/1670172211_7b65e307f3_b.jpg\" alt=\"Dental Health Month Kindergarten Lesson Plan\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto © 2007 Kelcey Kinjo, Flickr\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFebruary is recognized as children's dental health month. To make sure your kindergarteners understand the importance of taking care of their “pearly whites”, here are a few fun activities from Sarah at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.childcarelounge.com\/general-themes\/dental-tooth.php\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eChild Care Lounge\u003c\/a\u003eto work into your lesson plans.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDental Science\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExplain to your students that food and drink, if not brushed away, can stick to teeth, causing discoloration and even cavities. To reinforce the importance of brushing, flossing, visits to the dentis, etc., have your students explore how several popular drinks might affect the teeth of an individual with unhealthy dental habits.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eSupplies You'll Need for the Experiment\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e4 hard boiled eggs\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e4 jars (with lids)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e4 popular drinks – Coke, orange juice, fruit punch, and water\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBefore beginning the experiment, explain how the enamel of our teeth (the hard outer surface of a tooth) is similar to the shell of a hard boiled egg. With the assistance of student volunteers, pour a different liquid into each jar, submerging an egg in each and screwing the lids in place. Leave the eggs in the jars for at least 30 minutes, then remove and observe. Explain to your students that the eggs show what would happen to a person who drank a lot of ___________ {insert beverage here} and didn't take care of their teeth. Compare and contrast the results, discussing the types of drinks that should be 'consumed with care'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDental Hygiene \u0026amp; Sensory Play\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCreate a “molar” model by cutting off the bottom of a water bottle, painting the inside white, then attaching it (upside down!) to a piece of wood when dry. Make several individual models or attach the water bottle pieces side by side to create a “mouth” of teeth. Add the teeth to the sensory table, along with toothbrushes and toothpaste, inviting your students to practice proper brushing techniques then rinsing the models for the next student.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eA “Toothy” Book List\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHere are a few literature selections to get you started:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eArthur's Tooth\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e by Marc Brown\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eWhat Do Tooth Fairies Do With All Those Teeth?\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e by Michael Luppens\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eWhen I See My Dentist\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e by Susan Kuklin\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eBerenstain Bears Visit the Dentist\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e by Jan and Stan Berenstain\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734103826457,"sku":"A2920","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/1670172211_7b65e307f3_b.jpg?v=1522781693"},{"product_id":"dr-seuss-bingo-bulletin-board-display-a1095","title":"Dr. Seuss BINGO Bulletin Board Decoration","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-1060 \" title=\"Seuss-Bingo-Board\" alt=\"Dr. Seuss March Read Across America Literacy and Reading Bulletin Board\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Seuss-Bingo-Board.jpg\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: http:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/genevadesigns\/4422796003\/\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn honor of Dr. Seuss's birthday on March 2nd, Tiffany {Sage Valley Middle School librarian} imagined this \u003cem\u003efantastic\u003c\/em\u003e B-I-N-G-O bulletin board display and brought it to life with the help of her library assistant, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/genevadesigns\/4422796003\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eMary Kay\u003c\/a\u003e, and student TAs. Not only does the board provide a dynamic decoration for the classroom, it displays part of the famous author's library of works while doubling as an interactive game board. Simply brilliant!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch1\u003eDr. Seuss Bulletin Board B-I-N-G-O\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBackground:\u003c\/strong\u003e Black bulletin board paper.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTitle:\u003c\/strong\u003e \"B-I-N-G-O\" - The letters on the original board were cut from several colorful book pages, etc. that displayed samples of Seuss's quirky characters.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBorder:\u003c\/strong\u003e None needed.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDecoration:\u003c\/strong\u003e 24 of Seuss's book covers printed in black and white. Student TAs used graphic art tools to add some color detailing to the prints and make them pop. The center space features a birthday cake print with \"Happy Birthday, Dr. Seuss!\" scripted on it.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe day of Seuss's birthday, students were given a miniature version of the bulletin board {there were multiple variations, of course!} and small beans to mark the spaces as the book titles were read out! A dynamic decoration, tribute to the author, and fun classroom game all wrapped up in one - it can't get any better than that!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eThanks for stopping by! We'd love to hear how \u003c\/em\u003eyou \u003cem\u003eincorporate your favorite Seuss books for his birthday and Read Across America - let us know by leaving a comment below!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734104023065,"sku":"A1095","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Seuss-Bingo-Board.jpg?v=1522781694"},{"product_id":"happy-birthday-dr-seuss-bulletin-board-a1096","title":"Happy Birthday, Dr. Seuss! Classroom Bulletin Board Idea","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-full wp-image-1065   \" title=\"Seuss-Birthday-Display\" alt=\"Dr. Seuss Read Across America Literacy and Reading Bulletin Board\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Seuss-Birthday-Display.jpg\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: http:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/planolibrary\/3343054944\/\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe found this \u003cem\u003eseuss-tacular\u003c\/em\u003e bulletin board while perusing Flickr for inspiration. Decorated by the talented librarians of the \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/planolibrary\/3343054944\/in\/photostream\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003ePlano Public Library System\u003c\/a\u003e {in Texas} to celebrate Dr. Seuss's birthday and body of works, we're positive that this intricate {colorful!} display would make the perfect addition to any classroom to help kick off reading month as well as celebrate the famous author's birthday!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch1\u003eBirthday Cake Bulletin Board Display\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBackground:\u003c\/strong\u003e Blue bulletin board paper.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTitle:\u003c\/strong\u003e \"Happy Birthday, Dr. Seuss!\"\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBorder:\u003c\/strong\u003e Dr. Seuss bulletin board trimmer. For visual interest, add a few colorful curled ribbon streamers to the top of the board.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDecoration:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1) The Cake. We are amazed at the creativity that went into making this lopsided birthday cake for the quirky author! Similar to creating a snowman, begin by cutting out each layer of the cake (a combination of rectangles and squares in various sizes) from white bulletin board paper. Next, create the \"icing\" decorations using the newly created cake pieces to make correct measurements. You'll need a 2\" strip of red construction or bulletin board paper with a scalloped edge for each layer as well as a 4\" strip of white construction or bulletin board paper with a curled fringe edge (fringed pieces should be 1\" wide and about 2\" long). While it may seem counter-intuitive, begin by assembling the cake's top layer first - adding the base, then attaching the detailing so that the red scalloped paper sticks out from beneath the curled white fringe. Attach the second and third layers the same way. 2) The Candles. Create birthday candles to add to each layer of the cake. Either create a traceable template from card stock or find a black and white clip art image that can be printed directly onto colored construction paper. Along with the small candles, fashion one large candle for the very top of the cake by cutting a toilet paper roll in half, decorating the outside with shiny blue paper (or painting it with metallic blue paint), and stuffing yellow cellophane or saran wrap into the top. 3) The Book Jackets. Decorate the rest of the board with Dr. Seuss book covers. Use actual covers or print and laminate pictures found online.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis board, with its lopsided cake and quirky candles, is perfect for celebrating the life and works of Dr. Seuss! Let us know what you think of it as well as how \u003c\/em\u003eyou\u003cem\u003e incorporate Seuss into your classroom decor by leaving a comment below!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734104121369,"sku":"A1096","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Seuss-Birthday-Display.jpg?v=1522781695"},{"product_id":"spectacular-dr-seuss-crafts-a2280","title":"Spectacular! - Dr. Seuss Crafts","description":"\u003cp\u003eLooking for a crafty way to celebrate Read Across America and Dr. Seuss's birthday? Here's a collection of Seuss-tastic projects we found while perusing some of our favorite crafting sites!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOne Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.teachpreschool.org\/2010\/03\/sweet-glue-for-creative-art-in-preschool\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-full wp-image-2450 aligncenter\" title=\"Seuss-Crafts-1\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Seuss-Crafts-1.jpg\" alt=\"Dr. Seuss Fish craft\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003eCorn syrup aquarium from \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.teachpreschool.org\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eTeach Preschool\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/crazymommy.weblogs.us\/2011\/03\/01\/dr-seuss-one-fish-two-fish-red-fish-blue-fish-craft\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-2451 aligncenter\" title=\"Seuss-Crafts-2\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Seuss-Crafts-2.jpg\" alt=\"Dr. Seuss fish crafts\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003eHand print fishes from \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/crazymommy.weblogs.us\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eThe Lazy Stay-at-Home Mommy\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eYertle the Turtle\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.crayola.com\/crafts\/detail\/turtle-party!-tags-and-tables-craft\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2452\" title=\"Seuss-Crafts-3\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Seuss-Crafts-3.jpg\" alt=\"yertle the turtle craft\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eTurtles, ponds, and turtle races from \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.crayola.com\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eCrayola\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/jennwa.blogspot.com\/2008\/03\/paper-plate-turtles-kid-craft.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2453\" title=\"Seuss-Crafts-4\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Seuss-Crafts-4.jpg\" alt=\"paper plate yertle the turtle collage crafts\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003ePaper plate construction paper turtles from \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/jennwa.blogspot.com\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eRamblings of a Crazy Woman\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Cat in the Hat\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.craftjr.com\/dr-seuss-cat-in-the-hat-craft\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2454\" title=\"Seuss-Crafts-5\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Seuss-Crafts-5.jpg\" alt=\"chenille stem cat in the hat finger puppets\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003eChenille stem finger puppets from \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.craftjr.com\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eCraftJr\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.megacrafty.com\/2011\/03\/happy-birthday-dr-seuss.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2455\" title=\"Seuss-Crafts-6\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Seuss-Crafts-6.jpg\" alt=\"marshmallow and frosting cat in the hat pops\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eMarshmallow and frosting hats from \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.megacrafty.com\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eMega Crafty\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/familycrafts.about.com\/gi\/dynamic\/offsite.htm?site=http:\/\/www.kckpl.lib.ks.us\/YS\/crafts\/cathat.htm\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-2456\" title=\"Seuss-Crafts-7\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Seuss-Crafts-7.jpg\" alt=\"dr seuss cat in the hat hat craft\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eConstruction paper hat from \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/familycrafts.about.com\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eFamily Crafts\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.skiptomylou.org\/2009\/03\/02\/dr-seusss-thing\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2460\" title=\"Seuss-Crafts-B\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Seuss-Crafts-B.jpg\" alt=\"dr seuss cat in the hat thing 1 and thing 2 pencil crafts\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003eThing 1 and Thing 2 pencils from \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.skiptomylou.org\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eSkip To My Lou\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eHorton Hears A Who\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/familycrafts.about.com\/od\/drseusscraftprojects\/ss\/Horton-Hears-A-Who-Craft.htm\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2458\" title=\"Seuss-Crafts-9\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Seuss-Crafts-9.jpg\" alt=\"pink clover horton hears a who craft\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003ePink clover from \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/familycrafts.about.com\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eFamily Crafts\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/craftsandartforchildren.blogspot.com\/2010\/03\/dr-seusss-horton-hears-who-crafts-book.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2459\" title=\"Seuss-Crafts-A\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Seuss-Crafts-A.jpg\" alt=\"horton hears a who craft\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003eElephant headband and trunk from \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/craftsandartforchildren.blogspot.com\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eCrafts~N~Things for Children\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eBartholomew and the Oobleck\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/ashley-danielle-james.blogspot.com\/2010\/03\/happy-birthday-to-you-dr-seuss.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2457\" title=\"Seuss-Crafts-8\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Seuss-Crafts-8.jpg\" alt=\"bartholomew and the oobleck goo craft activity\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eOoey gooey green oobleck from \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/ashley-danielle-james.blogspot.com\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eCoffee \u0026amp; Bananas\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003eThese are just a \u003cem\u003efew\u003c\/em\u003e of the amazing Dr. Seuss crafts we found! Hope you have as much fun crafting as we did \u003cem\u003efinding\u003c\/em\u003e these great activities!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734104252441,"sku":"A2280","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Seuss-Crafts-1.jpg?v=1522781696"},{"product_id":"hats-off-to-dr-seuss-read-across-america-door-display-a1097","title":"Hats Off To Dr. Seuss! - Read Across America Classroom Door Decoration","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-full wp-image-1072 \" title=\"Hats-Off-To-Dr-Seuss-Door\" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Hats-Off-To-Dr-Seuss-Door.jpg\" alt=\"Read Across America Dr. Seuss Reading and Literacy Door Bulletin Board Idea\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source:http:\/\/lifeinfirstgrade1.blogspot.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn honor of Read Across America week and Dr. Seuss's birthday, Leslie Ann, first grade teacher and creator of the blog \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/lifeinfirstgrade1.blogspot.com\/2011\/02\/theres-wocket-in-my-pocketwhats-in.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eLife in First Grade\u003c\/a\u003e, designed this fantastic \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eCat in the Hat\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e themed door display that would make a great addition to \u003cem\u003eany\u003c\/em\u003e early childhood classroom!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch1\u003eThe Cat's Hat Crafts\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo reproduce Leslie Ann's board, print the Cat's hat coloring pages onto white card stock, color alternating stripes with red marker or paint, then cut out each hat and arrange on the door. It might be fun to have your students help you with this task in the week leading up March's Read Across America, printing student names at the bottom of their creations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou might also consider changing the art medium in order to display hats of various styles and textures for an added sensory appeal:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHave students cut and assemble hats from red and white felt.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eProvide students with small squares of red and white art tissue paper to twist and collage onto the card stock coloring page cutouts.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHave students cover alternating stripes on the card stock coloring page cutouts with red and white sugar crystals (salt or sand can also be used).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you don't have the time leading up to Seuss's birthday and Read Across America week, you could also purchase hat cutouts from a teacher supply store!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch1\u003e\"Hat's Off To Dr. Seuss!\" Display\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBackground:\u003c\/strong\u003e White bulletin board paper.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTitle:\u003c\/strong\u003e \"Hats Off To Dr. Seuss!\"\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBorder:\u003c\/strong\u003e Cat in the Hat border.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDecoration:\u003c\/strong\u003e Arrange your students' hat crafts on the door, adding a large Cat in the Hat cutout next to the door. If you're ambitious {and a good artist!}, you might consider free-handing the cutout or you could find a black and white print online that can be enlarged using your classroom projector system and traced. Of course, you could also just purchase a giant Cat in the Hat cutout as well!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile simple, we really like the design and theme of this display. If this doesn't get your students excited about reading, we don't know what will! :)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eThanks for stopping by! We'd love to hear what you think of our site, so be sure to leave us a comment below!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734104350745,"sku":"A1097","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Hats-Off-To-Dr-Seuss-Door.jpg?v=1522781696"},{"product_id":"literature-laughs-amp-leprechaun-tricks-a2926","title":"Literature, Laughs, \u0026amp; Leprechaun Tricks","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-501 \" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/Clever-Tom.jpg\" alt=\"Clever Tom and the Leprechaun book cover\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: www.jacketflap.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eTop o' the mornin' to ye!\u003c\/em\u003e If you're looking for fun lesson ideas for St. Patrick's Day, second grade teacher Mrs. Dicken's knows \u003cem\u003ejust\u003c\/em\u003e how to celebrate - lots of good books, a little adventure, and an elusive {trickster!} leprechaun, who goes by the name Lucky! We found this awesome thematic unit at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/teachershare.scholastic.com\/resources\/13295\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eTeacherShare\u003c\/a\u003e {a resource from Scholastic} and just had to share!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLeprechaun Thematic Unit\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLucky Leprechaun is on the loose and doing what he does best - playing tricks! Of course, he's a sly fellow {with years of practice!}, so he won't be easy to catch, but Mrs. Dicken has put her best detectives on the job. Armed with recycled shoe boxes, craft embellishments, duct tape, aluminum foil, 'bait', and \u003cem\u003eanything\u003c\/em\u003e else they can think of, students will work all week to create \u003cem\u003ethe perfect leprechaun trap\u003c\/em\u003e! Meanwhile, Lucky is up to no good:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMonday students will find that Lucky has turned all of their chairs backwards. Paired with Lorna's Balian's \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eLeprechauns Never Lie\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e, your kindergartners will begin to understand just how tricky leprechauns can be!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOn Tuesday, students will arrive to discover that their pesky little friend has messed with their name plates, putting them {upside down!} on different desks!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWednesday brings 'inside-out desks' - where Lucky takes everything from inside the desk and places it on top. Linda Shute's \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eClever Tom \u0026amp; the Leprechaun\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e gets the literature spotlight and, along with how clever they are, students learn for the first time that leprechauns can be trapped!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOn Thursday, Lucky strikes again - scattering desks and turning the classroom posters upside down. After a reading of Jana Dillon's \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eLucky 'O Leprechaun\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e, where two children and their grand aunts devise a plan to catch a leprechaun {and are successful!}, students will make their own traps to set before leaving school that afternoon.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFriday, Lucky brings a magical surprise! Children will walk in to find Lucky's \"pot o' gold\" and a sample of Lucky's Magical Powder in the center of the classroom. After a reading of Pamela Duncan Edwards' \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Leprechaun's Gold\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e, where students learn a priceless lesson about generosity and humility, invite students to enjoy the treats their little classroom leprechaun has brought to share.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor fantastic ideas on 'capturing' Lucky, a recipe for Lucky's Magical Powder, several writing exercises to inspire student creativity, and various St. Patty's Day themed activities {that cross multiple subjects!}, be sure to visit Mrs. Dicken's full lesson post at TeacherShare!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734104940569,"sku":"A2926","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/Clever-Tom.jpg?v=1522781700"},{"product_id":"my-little-sister-hugged-an-ape-literature-math-amp-more-a2934","title":"\"My Little Sister Hugged An Ape\" - Literature, Math, \u0026amp; More!","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"caption\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"size-medium wp-image-553 \" src=\"\/\/supplyme-images.s3.amazonaws.com\/post\/sister-book-cover.jpg\" alt=\"Bill Grossman's My Little Sister Hugged An Ape book cover\" data-pin-hover=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption\u003ePhoto Source: teachinginhighheels.blogspot.com\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeidi, first grade teacher and creator of the site, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/swampfrogfirstgraders.blogspot.com\/\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eSwamp Frog First Graders\u003c\/a\u003e, designed this great lesson based off Bill Grossman's \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eMy Little Sister Hugged an Ape\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e. With its fantastic imagery, sensory vocabulary, and humorous prose, this literature selection offers several great activities that your kindergartners are sure to love!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSensory Vocabulary\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsing a page from the book as an example, discuss sensory words and how they can make a \u003cem\u003ebig\u003c\/em\u003e difference in storytelling. For example, the two sentences below are vastly different:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMy sister hugged an eel. She liked its feel.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMy sister hugged an eel. She liked its \u003cstrong\u003eslippery\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003eslimy\u003c\/strong\u003e feel.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs you read the rest of the story, invite your students to look for other sensory words. After a complete reading, take the book page by page, listing the new sensory words your students have discovered.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eSensory Writing\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKeeping in mind the power of sensory words and using the newly created list as an example, invite your students to create new pages for the story. Begin by brainstorming a list of animals as a class and have students vote for their favorite selection when the list is complete. Tally the votes to determine the top two choices, then divide the class in half, assigning an animal to each, and have each group come up with both prose and illustrations for their new page {divide your time equally between the groups for any questions, etc. that may arise - also, note that this project may span more than a day}. When the pages have been 'polished', have a final reading of Grossman's story, adding in your students' created pages.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSensory Graphing\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTaking from the list of sensory words discovered on the pages of Grossman's book, invite your students to complete a questionnaire, answering questions like, \"Have you ever touched something slimy?\", etc. Keep a running tally of your students' answers and use these to make a bar graph. Interpret the data, finding which experience was \"most shared\" by students, \"least shared\", etc.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor more pictures, a printable writing activity, and other lesson ideas, be sure to visit Heidi's full {guest} post at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/teachinginhighheels.blogspot.com\/2011\/03\/guest-blogger-heidi-from-swamp-frog.html\" data-ad-id=\"post-content-link\"\u003eTeaching in High Heels\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SupplyMe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1734106349593,"sku":"A2934","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/products\/sister-book-cover.jpg?v=1522781709"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1418\/0968\/collections\/Pirate-Lit.jpg?v=1530027895","url":"https:\/\/www.supplyme.com\/collections\/topic-childrens-literature.oembed?page=6","provider":"SupplyMe","version":"1.0","type":"link"}