tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21027615248588934602023-11-16T10:57:00.482-08:00I Work for KidsA Blog for fellow Parents and Early Childhood Professionals.
The purpose of this site is to share and collaborate with one another. We all work hard to make life fulfilling for children, and the more we share with one another the better we can be!I Work for Kidshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115014497765503036noreply@blogger.comBlogger56125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2102761524858893460.post-39454270180841123762014-01-24T10:11:00.000-08:002014-01-24T10:11:26.746-08:00Chicka Chicka Boom Boom Look who is in Our Room!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Thank you Pinterest for this cute idea. Taken from the book Chicka Chicka Boom Boom each child decorated the initial of their first name, then on a name card wrote their name. The result a unique array of letters falling from the coconut tree!!!</div>
I Work for Kidshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115014497765503036noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2102761524858893460.post-51919623122869710032014-01-23T21:11:00.001-08:002014-01-23T21:12:28.519-08:00CAUTION! Twins at play!: Light table exploration<a href="http://graham-and-parker.blogspot.com/2013/10/light-table-exploration.html?spref=bl">Check out this awesome blog and how light tables can be a valuable source of curriculum </a>CAUTION! Twins at play!: Light table exploration: Here's what's been on the light table lately!! Feel free to email or comment with questions! glass gems, chopsticks, and a babyf...I Work for Kidshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115014497765503036noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2102761524858893460.post-23949389999763040262014-01-07T20:58:00.001-08:002014-01-07T20:58:08.140-08:00let the children play: Mirror, mirror on the Wall<a href="http://www.letthechildrenplay.net/2013/10/mirror-mirror-on-wall.html?spref=bl">let the children play: Mirror, mirror on the Wall</a>: I've been enamoured of late with the idea of mirrors in the outdoor play space. Not only do young children find mirrors engagin...I Work for Kidshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115014497765503036noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2102761524858893460.post-39168549837884739622014-01-07T20:52:00.001-08:002014-01-07T20:52:11.574-08:00Exploring the Outdoor Classroom: Strengthening Academics Through Play<a href="http://exploringtheoutdoorclassroom.blogspot.com/2013/06/strengthening-academics-through-play.html?spref=bl">Exploring the Outdoor Classroom: Strengthening Academics Through Play</a>: Strengthening Academics Through Play As parents search for the ‘perfect’ preschool for their young child, they are often fac...I Work for Kidshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115014497765503036noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2102761524858893460.post-84643080892764771602014-01-07T20:43:00.006-08:002014-01-07T20:43:52.576-08:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I'm a little late on this post. This took place back when Fall started, nevertheless I feel it is blog worthy. This was a huge hit in our room. We took the kids on a nature walk to look for foliage. While outside looking for leaves and such we sat the kids down and read the story "Leaf Man" By Lois Ehlert. Then we sent home card stock and the foliage they found and asked them to bring back their idea of "Leaf Man". What came back was an awesome array of Nature Displays. Each child shared with the class and names their picture. I cannot say enough of this project. </div>
I Work for Kidshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115014497765503036noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2102761524858893460.post-85576818842650150582014-01-07T20:35:00.002-08:002014-01-07T20:35:24.869-08:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Spruce up the Light Table with twinkle lights and a mirror.</div>
I Work for Kidshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115014497765503036noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2102761524858893460.post-81686885911848827562014-01-07T20:26:00.000-08:002014-01-07T21:02:16.236-08:00Ice, and Science<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This was a fun activity in our Pre-K room. We froze Artic animals in ice an added blue water color. When we put this activity out we also included a cup of water and droppers. The only way the kids could free the animals was to squirt water onto the ice. It was interesting to see who had patience to stick with the activity and who gave up quickly. Those who stuck around not only got to free the animals but they got to see weather erosion in action. As they squirted the water onto the ice am eroded pathway developed, very similar to how are rivers and creeks are developed. I asked the question "why do you think water is melting the ice?" To my surprise they had the right answers. I received answers such as "because it is not as cold as the ice", "because it is water and it is warm." They got it. This activity include these following areas; science (solid to a liquid, cold, erosion), fine motor (squeezing the droppers), social/emotional (problem solving between children on where to squirt water, and how to get animals free).I Work for Kidshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115014497765503036noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2102761524858893460.post-20029888751433302972013-06-01T17:50:00.000-07:002013-06-01T17:50:22.389-07:00I DO NOT DO CRAFTS!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I thought since I have been MIA for a while I would jump right back in with what could be in the Early Childhood field considered controversial. But we all have different outlooks and philosophies and I respect that, but here is my reasons. </div>
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The pictures below are such wonderful examples of how children's art and their creations are so much more magnificent than a teacher initiated, cookie cutter craft that has a "right way" and a "wrong way" of doing things. I don't believe crafts have value for children. I feel that by telling a child "the eyes go here, and the nose goes here" it pretty much has no personal meaning for the child. I ask you what is the purpose? So any teachers display mounds of crafts on their bulletin boards, but each one looks the same. It does not show the child's unique creativity. It also expresses to a child that there is a right way and a wrong way to do art. Art should be their own, it should be unique and an expression of what a child is thinking. </div>
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The pictures below are after a series on Space in our classroom. We talked about galaxies, we brainstormed, we researched, and we read books on galaxies. Without showing the children examples of how their art should look, they each created such wonderful expressions of galaxies. The materials were black construction paper, tempera powder, and a squirt bottle with water. Each child chose their colors scooped it on the paper, then squirted with water. The result was absolutely beautiful, and not one single galaxy looked the same.</div>
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<br />I Work for Kidshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115014497765503036noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2102761524858893460.post-7551301100623029332013-02-15T22:43:00.002-08:002013-02-15T22:43:29.858-08:00I am currently teaching in a pre-k classroom and the age old question I have gotten for years is "how can I get my child ready for kindergarten?" Parents are anxious, concerned and even paranoid that their child may not make it into kindergarten, as if it were a college entrance exam. I want to say to all those who find themselves in this same boat, please please just relax. Parents sometimes think that if they practice writing, reading or other "academic like" activities that it will some how better their chance. Bottom line is are they developmentally ready? There is so much more that goes into determining "Kindergarten Readiness." Now I am not here to spew child development theory or research, what I am here to do is offer some simple fun ideas for you to do with your child which will help prepare them for kindergarten, hence the word "help", there are no guarantees. Children develop at different rates. Anywho.......<br />
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Sorting candy hearts using a grip/tweezers. This helps strengthen the hand muscles which will later help form the pincer grasp which is needed to hold a pencil properly.<br />
You can use tongs, tweezers, or chop-sticks (kid ones that is)<br />
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</a> Peeling stickers is an excellent way to improve fine motor skills, which are needed to develop writing skills. What kid doesnt like to stick stickers on stuff.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitEwzdqu3nrk6PxIRlfUxExoP74aemF2Yq6-xhIAhZ52hFsIGVPYCAGOKMbguAKz2VO5s0m_8A_7mYInLTAbQGsMq5ryEN5L8PLpPXpnpJ-IiBotWydLqiA7y4H_4cmz9ia4pXad0xjxc/s1600/Feb+2013+103.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitEwzdqu3nrk6PxIRlfUxExoP74aemF2Yq6-xhIAhZ52hFsIGVPYCAGOKMbguAKz2VO5s0m_8A_7mYInLTAbQGsMq5ryEN5L8PLpPXpnpJ-IiBotWydLqiA7y4H_4cmz9ia4pXad0xjxc/s320/Feb+2013+103.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Free writing/coloring.</div>
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By giving children opportunities to freely draw without the use of a ditto-page or a work sheet, you are giving them the opportunity to; strengthen those muscles, freely pre-think and plan what they will put down on paper, and it encourages creativity. When something is created by a child for the child they will put more effort, detail and care into their work. It may look like scribbles at first but as time goes on you will notice their drawings will become much more intentional, meaningful and most of all recognizable.</div>
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Building with blocks seems to most just another form of play. But in actuality it is teaching a child spatial awareness, measurement, balance, accuracy, problem solving, creativity, shapes, and much much more, And you thought it was just play.....<br />
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Pretend Play. In Preschool it is referred to as Dramatic play. This is so important for children to participate in because it allows for them to cooperatively play with other children. In doing this they must come together, agree on what they are going to play, and then cooperatively act out this idea they have come up with. This form of play is vital believe it or not. If you don't believe me then google it! <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyTfvHxy-8zZOj9fyKOvG1daTDmMf3z5tsC2ihBYa757fEk2VYxgRermQDiiaSLi12jl-A6RbhHYD-R5rEcYQyS27FCZZbvL_CtHII2rjJYVxwVbPmXsGVTzGfV6qr-1J8khjdgk6EHhs/s1600/Dec+2012+207.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyTfvHxy-8zZOj9fyKOvG1daTDmMf3z5tsC2ihBYa757fEk2VYxgRermQDiiaSLi12jl-A6RbhHYD-R5rEcYQyS27FCZZbvL_CtHII2rjJYVxwVbPmXsGVTzGfV6qr-1J8khjdgk6EHhs/s320/Dec+2012+207.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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These are just a few examples of activities that are all part of contributing to the "Whole Child." Once children can somewhat master several of these skills then being kindergarten ready is right around the corner. Now you can breath a little better because all you have to do is let your child have fun!</div>
I Work for Kidshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115014497765503036noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2102761524858893460.post-82335185410750325792013-02-15T21:59:00.001-08:002013-02-15T21:59:16.630-08:00Back After being out of the blogging scene for a while. I am back. Ive been through a job change, a move, the holidays. Now here I am back and ready to engage.I Work for Kidshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115014497765503036noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2102761524858893460.post-38074818473289268412012-09-12T22:15:00.002-07:002012-09-12T22:15:50.194-07:00How to teach preschoolers about 9/119/11 in America is something so sacred, so painful, and so shocking that many of us cannot imagine how you can possibly share with preschoolers this topic. Well the obvious answer is "NO you can't." However we can take the time to talk about our fellow service men and women who help serve our country everyday. When dealing with 9/11 and the tragedy behind it, it is important to remember that not only were many lives lost that day, but it was also a day where race, politics, social class status, sexual orientation, religion and gender did not matter. Everyone came together as Americans to help one another. We all shared this moment, some harder than others but nevertheless we shared it. So I think by allowing preschoolers to learn more about the service men and women in our country, it is in a small way paying tribute to those who serve our country. Preschoolers have and always will look to Policemen, firemen, doctors and military as their heroes. You can see these things when watching them in dramatic play, or imaginary play. We can only say thank you to those who have served and pray for those still in service.<br />
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We will never forget....................<br />
I Work for Kidshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115014497765503036noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2102761524858893460.post-49267412160649965662012-09-12T21:55:00.001-07:002012-09-12T21:55:40.697-07:00let the children play: creating quiet spaces for young children in early ...<a href="http://progressiveearlychildhoodeducation.blogspot.com/2011/01/creating-quiet-spaces-for-young.html?spref=bl">let the children play: creating quiet spaces for young children in early ...</a>: Do you like to peek into other early childhood centres for inspiration? I know I do. I'm a card carrying sticky beak! I have found some i...I Work for Kidshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115014497765503036noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2102761524858893460.post-29118178016561606322012-05-28T13:48:00.002-07:002012-05-28T13:48:53.919-07:00Local Outing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hello, it has been a while since I have blogged. Been trying to adjust with my new transition. Now that I am a SAHM I have been trying to find ways to still keep my children stimulated, as well as spend that quality time I desired when choosing to stay at home. <br />
The weather is now transitioning from winter to spring and soon to summer. Which in California makes for awesome weather. We headed to a local spot <a href="http://www.kidspacemuseum.org/hands-learning/eventlisting">http://www.kidspacemuseum.org/hands-learning/eventlisting</a> (Kidspace). These couple of pictures do not do the place justice. It is basically a kids museum, which has tons of hands on learning opportunities. This is like a giant Dream Preschool!!! (No Joke). They also have a small river that kids can play in. They even provide the buckets for them to explore in the water. Because it was Spring we were also able to purchase caterpillars for our butterfly pavilion (picture coming soon). It is reasonably priced at $10 and they offer seasonal passes for a reasonable price as well. It is fun to find little hidden treasures to take the kids so that they still can find that preschool-like atmosphere. It was a blast! I think I know where we will be spending our summer.I Work for Kidshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115014497765503036noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2102761524858893460.post-45434826216987531712012-03-02T08:36:00.000-08:002012-03-02T08:36:51.087-08:00Life ChangesJust a few thoughts! I recently resigned from my position, and now am a SAHM. So my next journey begins! I now work for children at home! I look forward to this new transition, and also to explore how I can continue to serve children in some capacity.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZNFkse9paJkov1Yo3t-9oSjbo9KkKHfBNQf0DMK6LHJHNYi3_d8TdOqqgmaOgytxOGf_Kmb2CPcfhadLN0cDWrdYv1uCGfnbdwnXEDt46l-mTUeZDm3-hICVg7CeUrp5fTebz0QnAPIY/s1600/the+last+of+2011+008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZNFkse9paJkov1Yo3t-9oSjbo9KkKHfBNQf0DMK6LHJHNYi3_d8TdOqqgmaOgytxOGf_Kmb2CPcfhadLN0cDWrdYv1uCGfnbdwnXEDt46l-mTUeZDm3-hICVg7CeUrp5fTebz0QnAPIY/s320/the+last+of+2011+008.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Here are two of my four children! Who are very excited to have Mommy home! I'm already working harder than I have at any job! =)</div>I Work for Kidshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115014497765503036noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2102761524858893460.post-33592161027153637512012-02-02T18:56:00.000-08:002012-02-02T18:56:39.297-08:00Chalk Board Paint<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjytJfuZZP3XsBGoOZC_7OoquwACWmmyNETMbEpHcqOFrBdK0ktkNNE3DPd8J_qsTzR6ptyrplPFeWubOSxFmRYCnH5iXNxtXNIpvasFg6tTCrTyFpEiJBDnLLbuyBCU0R8hulaULPOV6s/s1600/chalk+board+paint+004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjytJfuZZP3XsBGoOZC_7OoquwACWmmyNETMbEpHcqOFrBdK0ktkNNE3DPd8J_qsTzR6ptyrplPFeWubOSxFmRYCnH5iXNxtXNIpvasFg6tTCrTyFpEiJBDnLLbuyBCU0R8hulaULPOV6s/s320/chalk+board+paint+004.JPG" width="239" /></a>After seeing so many creative things one can do with Chalk Board paint I decided to purchase some and see what I could do with it.</div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJgqXy_DIIRmNd-ZZMUZ4lryJ1Bwvdo7pvnSDiOXgn5YjjZin4Z4xGrp1OLLrkfhG0k2hH4gq7zqO-QGwCXy-BfxuFOz4adEIcRbUCvqF5QxWtdQm9OE3KftwZaenuq-V1LV3Eq7nybzU/s1600/chalk+board+paint+005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJgqXy_DIIRmNd-ZZMUZ4lryJ1Bwvdo7pvnSDiOXgn5YjjZin4Z4xGrp1OLLrkfhG0k2hH4gq7zqO-QGwCXy-BfxuFOz4adEIcRbUCvqF5QxWtdQm9OE3KftwZaenuq-V1LV3Eq7nybzU/s320/chalk+board+paint+005.JPG" width="320" /></a>I took an old serving tray to be my test project</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4graKgRQSZabVxvG92_t7kknvlZ_3Tt3-4viKvtbIi5mXsO6wnCJujHisx0OCQFeV8E-GiDSNifRSoknusBlEAVyvQCvmb4B7SqEPHI2FtNYlzCs57WQmcor7NENqfKC81I4ov4jI56I/s1600/chalk+board+paint+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4graKgRQSZabVxvG92_t7kknvlZ_3Tt3-4viKvtbIi5mXsO6wnCJujHisx0OCQFeV8E-GiDSNifRSoknusBlEAVyvQCvmb4B7SqEPHI2FtNYlzCs57WQmcor7NENqfKC81I4ov4jI56I/s320/chalk+board+paint+007.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsXlVfK2jEt693MIIn6UERp0PH_nowrQ41n0edycnluIHuMlw6_psv8c5cJyYL2gemBzgQ9_AohqmGLES52Gl6kFaVrkzk2nvT6XY4U-d6sHVqfA1ScEuLo6IT_71PZHmC4Xt9sWQDSyw/s1600/chalk+board+paint+008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsXlVfK2jEt693MIIn6UERp0PH_nowrQ41n0edycnluIHuMlw6_psv8c5cJyYL2gemBzgQ9_AohqmGLES52Gl6kFaVrkzk2nvT6XY4U-d6sHVqfA1ScEuLo6IT_71PZHmC4Xt9sWQDSyw/s320/chalk+board+paint+008.JPG" width="239" /></a></div> I used painters masking tape for the edges, and a simple brush <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhobmlmzixYM7ialnfUNsMJt87tMdNnwQBhIFy89t6BEHf3-uq99kcEYwYYtJVubbd9w_otLUi_hyphenhyphenB5u7tYyU3qQe-8cOMmDazH1v8W2kTenoanrH1VjfohVdWllgWrmnayLwIqAhN_rFg/s1600/chalk+board+paint+009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhobmlmzixYM7ialnfUNsMJt87tMdNnwQBhIFy89t6BEHf3-uq99kcEYwYYtJVubbd9w_otLUi_hyphenhyphenB5u7tYyU3qQe-8cOMmDazH1v8W2kTenoanrH1VjfohVdWllgWrmnayLwIqAhN_rFg/s320/chalk+board+paint+009.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdapsB2_CkE2UukeMwop7psU7t5e2Eu98-nP1_PGmN27ZNiwa9T2urPqlS2Y-nlIryNO7qmT0lmA2i-zIKvIN4oG5b7eTKfqXyZufcFV-NWhxTMI7h-eAXuOGfREgbbqgxpKu-BO13Yd0/s1600/chalk+board+paint+011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdapsB2_CkE2UukeMwop7psU7t5e2Eu98-nP1_PGmN27ZNiwa9T2urPqlS2Y-nlIryNO7qmT0lmA2i-zIKvIN4oG5b7eTKfqXyZufcFV-NWhxTMI7h-eAXuOGfREgbbqgxpKu-BO13Yd0/s320/chalk+board+paint+011.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFd6PHS9TGYA-6O9hD0DX2BNCBYka24veP6TaD6b_du_BUQgVyEIgDkr9lAwMXnO1tmDGr_PZtWls1QS0YtD69Qk3KfWS6R3o7X7huLepV7OHTO5Icgl8hf-tyoJaJClUmYZHxvCHgN9w/s1600/chalk+board+paint+013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFd6PHS9TGYA-6O9hD0DX2BNCBYka24veP6TaD6b_du_BUQgVyEIgDkr9lAwMXnO1tmDGr_PZtWls1QS0YtD69Qk3KfWS6R3o7X7huLepV7OHTO5Icgl8hf-tyoJaJClUmYZHxvCHgN9w/s320/chalk+board+paint+013.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVImuFcWHT6FfYvtZWTz6bt8bjU3TBBuR2BbWCesjVi-_kuuhYchOS4r6zEb82D7-vNBbJ3dq-l2Nz7hoWhfXBrYCd6fOxW2LtLGy783HmK6Iz410KFXe_YT6IsCazqvXkcOezaMklLq8/s1600/chalk+board+paint+012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVImuFcWHT6FfYvtZWTz6bt8bjU3TBBuR2BbWCesjVi-_kuuhYchOS4r6zEb82D7-vNBbJ3dq-l2Nz7hoWhfXBrYCd6fOxW2LtLGy783HmK6Iz410KFXe_YT6IsCazqvXkcOezaMklLq8/s320/chalk+board+paint+012.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYB6U2KG8hfttPqNlXmsmuCeAFM8meWM74iKH2uyXQLeu2t1sjOVgL44V88dOQA9-UDAEgDj8CKdRt7ONB5WAhr0JSjXKRmmV_NxIulosqML6rbxEmgaaggbrDxnUC45S5OR-F3EeoNg0/s1600/chalk+board+space+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYB6U2KG8hfttPqNlXmsmuCeAFM8meWM74iKH2uyXQLeu2t1sjOVgL44V88dOQA9-UDAEgDj8CKdRt7ONB5WAhr0JSjXKRmmV_NxIulosqML6rbxEmgaaggbrDxnUC45S5OR-F3EeoNg0/s320/chalk+board+space+002.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It took two coats and dried within an hour. It was pretty easy to do.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizlt06XTGP4Wykao47g2ag2OInqb5onV32yuvV6eurcmo6qWJiLZe5V5EEJXBLSp0ToS0e1fqhmpx-aAsfV8q1-37IlOs_GUiiROf6dyw2vhtzO0fyFYHEiJEa5-R8ou0Zzt8kPHBHvvw/s1600/chalk+board+space+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizlt06XTGP4Wykao47g2ag2OInqb5onV32yuvV6eurcmo6qWJiLZe5V5EEJXBLSp0ToS0e1fqhmpx-aAsfV8q1-37IlOs_GUiiROf6dyw2vhtzO0fyFYHEiJEa5-R8ou0Zzt8kPHBHvvw/s320/chalk+board+space+001.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>I Work for Kidshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115014497765503036noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2102761524858893460.post-91605849098950277562012-02-01T13:11:00.000-08:002012-02-01T13:11:06.423-08:00Valentines Decor<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn-VkeJ3WkiY-NPtd2P6UK_gIlJ3v4yPPWxh3qivDqIfIUnblXeWHcdOpOaE2how1dAQO4iWAQKWN9a5p9n9zH-v4adGBMl-ONIbj7H6hWQkHrVnj60WqQeeDTTM-sdDkL8N_hnu0LFIg/s1600/jan+2012+013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn-VkeJ3WkiY-NPtd2P6UK_gIlJ3v4yPPWxh3qivDqIfIUnblXeWHcdOpOaE2how1dAQO4iWAQKWN9a5p9n9zH-v4adGBMl-ONIbj7H6hWQkHrVnj60WqQeeDTTM-sdDkL8N_hnu0LFIg/s320/jan+2012+013.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yarn, Liquid Starch, and a Heart Shaped Cookie Cutter</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkby9-64dqjP1MmcPKBbxrAh-yVg7uvU90EswFVKvjJG-1b7JVZzq6Gosz-wKeuWLpAlTv9kebe_VH3zRB_-4sy0EAtxuaRANXTKP-ZmDlRdY3vfrLp_svnveHm78tXiIsPAjgZBMpXkI/s1600/jan+2012+014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkby9-64dqjP1MmcPKBbxrAh-yVg7uvU90EswFVKvjJG-1b7JVZzq6Gosz-wKeuWLpAlTv9kebe_VH3zRB_-4sy0EAtxuaRANXTKP-ZmDlRdY3vfrLp_svnveHm78tXiIsPAjgZBMpXkI/s320/jan+2012+014.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXFgLUf_V-n3aYvZjaDanKFZfIe3S8C0_Mc3tllIsBTQbS9y4g35PKnxPnp2k4W_vG65Z9I0qvAd-w14wxLpvMXhMwGJzg268O20vMau-3EVwo7f7N2fGbtqaqftZv2Lv0-x8yMSub0NQ/s1600/jan+2012+016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXFgLUf_V-n3aYvZjaDanKFZfIe3S8C0_Mc3tllIsBTQbS9y4g35PKnxPnp2k4W_vG65Z9I0qvAd-w14wxLpvMXhMwGJzg268O20vMau-3EVwo7f7N2fGbtqaqftZv2Lv0-x8yMSub0NQ/s320/jan+2012+016.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJYu9lvfQWUyuu-ohYyI7HWqG6HMHtXTr_g3CI8GkIZ_EesRdj3zKbARudHYNgLr6pbBagYuJsZ2RoG1w238VXxat4RDJSF70Mm_3L2w5frDey8VelccM9lYai9q2fAFyjZX3Zc9V-Qao/s1600/jan+2012+017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJYu9lvfQWUyuu-ohYyI7HWqG6HMHtXTr_g3CI8GkIZ_EesRdj3zKbARudHYNgLr6pbBagYuJsZ2RoG1w238VXxat4RDJSF70Mm_3L2w5frDey8VelccM9lYai9q2fAFyjZX3Zc9V-Qao/s320/jan+2012+017.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk89-PZkKY6QWwUqV6Iw28kqYazoqte1GvL2SA_YOaFGegTEGG8rJl4D8AACKC6dxmBQ52kcMMGxgjv6uvt3ebWDhbTNJa9rhWjqh8LuWxqN_1AN4hOyei4LNio4Gve0xAFdJSgn9MInI/s1600/jan+2012+019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk89-PZkKY6QWwUqV6Iw28kqYazoqte1GvL2SA_YOaFGegTEGG8rJl4D8AACKC6dxmBQ52kcMMGxgjv6uvt3ebWDhbTNJa9rhWjqh8LuWxqN_1AN4hOyei4LNio4Gve0xAFdJSgn9MInI/s320/jan+2012+019.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div align="center">This is such an easy project for kids, and yet the outcome is beautiful. For older children they can actually cut the yarn themselves, for younger children you might want to pre-cut yarn. The children chose the color yarn and placed it inside the cookie cutter, then with a brush dipped liquid starch onto the yarn. The yarn must be thoroughly covered in starch. It takes about 3 days to dry, and the end result is a heart shaped decoration that can be hung in a window or from a mantel. I got this idea from Disney's magazine <a href="http://familyfun.go.com/valentines-day/valentines-day-crafts-gifts/all-valentines-day-crafts/sticky-hands-warm-hearts-973682/">http://familyfun.go.com</a></div>I Work for Kidshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115014497765503036noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2102761524858893460.post-43510408226339558022012-01-27T22:22:00.000-08:002012-01-27T22:22:08.241-08:00Another Use for Gak<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoItoxw_4uVV6S-ME_80xrVQMrkjP5omW97_XrFirbQRkAKFoM1PBz1pox8Gd7qWveFpOalg03oWjL9CRB99vpTKqQzbFHjLS30zArCM7hV56qNCakvZ356pHZ2fzy-9CPjy88ortdqTc/s1600/Blog+and+Preston+005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoItoxw_4uVV6S-ME_80xrVQMrkjP5omW97_XrFirbQRkAKFoM1PBz1pox8Gd7qWveFpOalg03oWjL9CRB99vpTKqQzbFHjLS30zArCM7hV56qNCakvZ356pHZ2fzy-9CPjy88ortdqTc/s320/Blog+and+Preston+005.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mosaic Gak</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzfRRmIGBUpDrWs4HfIfyL_WN8EPpYh45RjNcwdOoy8sNFGrZwWri_2FaMafegjY9seK2v-XXganxrL37BdfKu_8ORSH_PMEIiyPvW6efFOOSQg_L5ndX0ZjEGKBj-YVnyT-Z1CpVhcZA/s1600/Blog+and+Preston+004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzfRRmIGBUpDrWs4HfIfyL_WN8EPpYh45RjNcwdOoy8sNFGrZwWri_2FaMafegjY9seK2v-XXganxrL37BdfKu_8ORSH_PMEIiyPvW6efFOOSQg_L5ndX0ZjEGKBj-YVnyT-Z1CpVhcZA/s320/Blog+and+Preston+004.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixhyBAcU1H0cGeElJFEYzNgdY7jEEN5j5r-q8896oheJsYVH4Pug2r0xZOXy4Fg8FsaBRSs4DgxxIRG2QTUZ_MDalsShfiswKwQEWWVf7gdsGvGsHRPss0Y30Oxec3evDvjfvFrpbyxQ4/s1600/Blog+and+Preston+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixhyBAcU1H0cGeElJFEYzNgdY7jEEN5j5r-q8896oheJsYVH4Pug2r0xZOXy4Fg8FsaBRSs4DgxxIRG2QTUZ_MDalsShfiswKwQEWWVf7gdsGvGsHRPss0Y30Oxec3evDvjfvFrpbyxQ4/s320/Blog+and+Preston+006.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><div align="center">One of our teachers made Gak for the classroom, and once the children were losing interest he added something so simple. Glass tiles!!! This is a great way to not only allow children the opportunity to create and manipulate different mosaics but it also offers a sensory opportunity as well. The cold glass tiles are easily pressed into the Gak leaving an impression. They can also be hidden inside the Gak for others to find. Seems so simple yet every time I turn around there is always children at this particular activity.</div>I Work for Kidshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115014497765503036noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2102761524858893460.post-38911755483930929432012-01-26T21:55:00.000-08:002012-01-26T21:55:10.762-08:00Pulling Things Out of a Hat<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-ZwRBmTXY8olvUGcBqKmNoK40acrTDtPmeCYjxdKcjYqG7bUrw1uqNSIpPT53JTlXW69f_Hjf77Qr1NvUyalfFxEG8BG2q1hH_eOVAAelRoCgHcedUfUbLg_y48JWvRIuCp63PG7Kd7k/s1600/Valentines+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-ZwRBmTXY8olvUGcBqKmNoK40acrTDtPmeCYjxdKcjYqG7bUrw1uqNSIpPT53JTlXW69f_Hjf77Qr1NvUyalfFxEG8BG2q1hH_eOVAAelRoCgHcedUfUbLg_y48JWvRIuCp63PG7Kd7k/s320/Valentines+001.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIMBDJe4DQbI_uxaNs0V8j5WKBJi8lawPVlbpKKv75C1Hl4EzrJfgRhtGh8c7RhFawigbFz8MEL1AOi9X-xUgLk4eZlBn5-QXCY6zLI6UDAD-tWZdqQH5466QabTLXxMQObhCYiK78o6I/s1600/Valentines+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIMBDJe4DQbI_uxaNs0V8j5WKBJi8lawPVlbpKKv75C1Hl4EzrJfgRhtGh8c7RhFawigbFz8MEL1AOi9X-xUgLk4eZlBn5-QXCY6zLI6UDAD-tWZdqQH5466QabTLXxMQObhCYiK78o6I/s320/Valentines+002.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLIC66Y6-7Q7V7MkRly6dJzp_DSK8vbDp89j2ef-swPV62XyVNkTFfD2U_YwpohavafemORrzaLNHSc3kpGbASVow-ICbj1ZySbD8yx9REQu2qh1mOlJbwcrrmqxECXPdbo3Y7eLAnTMo/s1600/Valentines+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLIC66Y6-7Q7V7MkRly6dJzp_DSK8vbDp89j2ef-swPV62XyVNkTFfD2U_YwpohavafemORrzaLNHSc3kpGbASVow-ICbj1ZySbD8yx9REQu2qh1mOlJbwcrrmqxECXPdbo3Y7eLAnTMo/s320/Valentines+003.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><div align="center">While in the project room today, a few girls wanted to try something new. I had left over egg cartons and drink holders which I cut into pieces. Not sure what to do with them, we pulled out some scrap tissue paper, and got liquid starch out along with some paint brushes. So we began to decorate the pieces. Initially I felt like I needed a plan, but as the girls began to paint on the starch I realized a plan was not necessary, it was more about the process and not the product. I know that sounds like a child development cliche but it was true. This activity kept the girls occupied and content just picking out pieces and painting them on. </div>I Work for Kidshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115014497765503036noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2102761524858893460.post-38274453531976680752012-01-25T20:43:00.000-08:002012-01-25T20:43:26.034-08:00A little bit of home<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIDxZrGvFyDZBG6DFb2NWHd0SIHKtS_sQetP_6UNzFPo7GZgxDwYNMmcxZ2d9UzoyGtuvqS0eOzXEIsVF6pTxxWzSx1WHJeX7RNwz5YS5zgQNTi8Psp0Ov7ohT-wUYiRDHZMSEd6zHSNg/s1600/January+blog+and+preston+photos+videos+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIDxZrGvFyDZBG6DFb2NWHd0SIHKtS_sQetP_6UNzFPo7GZgxDwYNMmcxZ2d9UzoyGtuvqS0eOzXEIsVF6pTxxWzSx1WHJeX7RNwz5YS5zgQNTi8Psp0Ov7ohT-wUYiRDHZMSEd6zHSNg/s320/January+blog+and+preston+photos+videos+007.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div align="center">I am a preschool teacher yes, but most importantly I am a mom. Just thought I would post a picture of our lil one going on 10 months. He has been such a huge blessing and light to our family. It is not always easy to juggle work, and life but coming home to this smile makes my busy day even brighter.</div>I Work for Kidshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115014497765503036noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2102761524858893460.post-45745400365673211382012-01-25T20:40:00.000-08:002012-01-25T20:40:11.907-08:00Tree Cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhni2-ikkIAc_MRNBANIPf_cSVOZ8dVArnjDlBS9b8Zh_CpiKheSC29L93raNseN3dLcCcY1qSKxMxEgZS4W0nBXKL6_QxjZ6Ux_Ggj_tpxoymWILZ5JWkDwazByF1dw1m7oSQHosL2kqA/s1600/January+blog+and+preston+photos+videos+067.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhni2-ikkIAc_MRNBANIPf_cSVOZ8dVArnjDlBS9b8Zh_CpiKheSC29L93raNseN3dLcCcY1qSKxMxEgZS4W0nBXKL6_QxjZ6Ux_Ggj_tpxoymWILZ5JWkDwazByF1dw1m7oSQHosL2kqA/s320/January+blog+and+preston+photos+videos+067.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUVLtYPWX9OJBF8Z5ogoy809HxdAJhzmzphbw62roPgsRlxYwiYdJavOhM3pyn05R9-Yips4eo9QcK6jsrZogsbIq9B7uvGtZ2DGjATbcywBV3YshCSAE0zoi_oRuFOzOuhjtWrVgsW70/s1600/January+blog+and+preston+photos+videos+069.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUVLtYPWX9OJBF8Z5ogoy809HxdAJhzmzphbw62roPgsRlxYwiYdJavOhM3pyn05R9-Yips4eo9QcK6jsrZogsbIq9B7uvGtZ2DGjATbcywBV3YshCSAE0zoi_oRuFOzOuhjtWrVgsW70/s320/January+blog+and+preston+photos+videos+069.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><div align="center">What to do with all these tree cookies left over from the Christmas season? Last year we made tree sculptures so this year I left it up to the kids. Of course painting them was top choice.</div>I Work for Kidshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115014497765503036noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2102761524858893460.post-15840897000733945592012-01-25T20:35:00.000-08:002012-01-25T20:35:27.871-08:00Even Children Can Build<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXrF9xnA_TEYlhjdvZDxEl8oajyuRoA7K7coF1kLGHS_n1MlPncwBnUjOmakwebsaPTPD4hsiB091YnBRgbWH4ZI9SuB2z-knFyPhoVt7R_Nqrus6uu2QHP7-GcYzafSDEOFoapJZbJz4/s1600/January+blog+and+preston+photos+videos+015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXrF9xnA_TEYlhjdvZDxEl8oajyuRoA7K7coF1kLGHS_n1MlPncwBnUjOmakwebsaPTPD4hsiB091YnBRgbWH4ZI9SuB2z-knFyPhoVt7R_Nqrus6uu2QHP7-GcYzafSDEOFoapJZbJz4/s320/January+blog+and+preston+photos+videos+015.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">One of our little friends on his own accord decided while exploring the wood working table that he wanted to build something. So I decided to stand back and watch him have at it. He grabbed four equal sized pieces of wood, he then proceeded to glue them together. Because the time allowed in the project room is limited I allowed him to be called Project Manager and placed his project in a special spot for him to come back to everyday, until he decides he is done. Currently this project is still going on. Stay tuned for the finished product.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFKLA5nmN3hBBBj0z7MJUxiGb-xHkmjBDZfR5aHUNJATYHvzI1ThyphenhyphenrRZAMy8uMAuNQh67eZFpFgr37qKnAF-Sz0GYW4E1eX_ddW7pmBRlnet12-9mx4qpZliqKxZVRloqcO7x4gc8fx0U/s1600/January+blog+and+preston+photos+videos+016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFKLA5nmN3hBBBj0z7MJUxiGb-xHkmjBDZfR5aHUNJATYHvzI1ThyphenhyphenrRZAMy8uMAuNQh67eZFpFgr37qKnAF-Sz0GYW4E1eX_ddW7pmBRlnet12-9mx4qpZliqKxZVRloqcO7x4gc8fx0U/s320/January+blog+and+preston+photos+videos+016.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Wood Glue</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilpa6SLNDnZd2IyDRdO-ga7_nAqxTgtE8d4R1wONKWm-M4uK-mQLxHJc8Yx_4eDg-E5sFC1uUkxBze7rFo03hs1gx9HB9SzLhgY9EexXaQqMrP3Cch6NeeAANVuc0Iyrvw7ktgpjiIGLQ/s1600/January+blog+and+preston+photos+videos+018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilpa6SLNDnZd2IyDRdO-ga7_nAqxTgtE8d4R1wONKWm-M4uK-mQLxHJc8Yx_4eDg-E5sFC1uUkxBze7rFo03hs1gx9HB9SzLhgY9EexXaQqMrP3Cch6NeeAANVuc0Iyrvw7ktgpjiIGLQ/s320/January+blog+and+preston+photos+videos+018.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK4nsT3AEQiTbaI4OSb2enVYej24xk1SMX_jV3VJXGitc2UN3Cq_f-HDA_xu9njIKP1BvZffXc12YOt8D6wTWklpwlSjE1ZjnAhZqaW9G9AC9R4jYlO9_o3L_4geLace_2H64KOmLV5iA/s1600/January+blog+and+preston+photos+videos+055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK4nsT3AEQiTbaI4OSb2enVYej24xk1SMX_jV3VJXGitc2UN3Cq_f-HDA_xu9njIKP1BvZffXc12YOt8D6wTWklpwlSjE1ZjnAhZqaW9G9AC9R4jYlO9_o3L_4geLace_2H64KOmLV5iA/s320/January+blog+and+preston+photos+videos+055.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Time to paint</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXjrMKti6UkUuFIgwRdz2F0E2BBUwu7yXQjYu3whiG_g4-pXrVoQaqIEt9Dev1AAUAp-cSY9kmDlUjMVtej7pBEoMZn21phGI97cXAl4Jl5yS-tMa4kjkTxITxNnLf691AMOFHUUjtZMA/s1600/January+blog+and+preston+photos+videos+057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXjrMKti6UkUuFIgwRdz2F0E2BBUwu7yXQjYu3whiG_g4-pXrVoQaqIEt9Dev1AAUAp-cSY9kmDlUjMVtej7pBEoMZn21phGI97cXAl4Jl5yS-tMa4kjkTxITxNnLf691AMOFHUUjtZMA/s320/January+blog+and+preston+photos+videos+057.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div align="center">Our friend only preferred green for his project, and directed his helpers on where to paint and with what color. </div>I Work for Kidshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115014497765503036noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2102761524858893460.post-74911918190568948982011-12-17T14:14:00.000-08:002011-12-17T14:14:57.783-08:00Wood Working<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9ikIV7axtTqFwie0SIIFQMHaM2KtJdXqSJThtrVHJJ_y2kPJ4xOm7EwmTUla19d29zCYqEYBrbXwKl2TJJ6J04UNJT5B6orG0AgWpWeUQqgQPZI-tMPwBzeZCCMktjUwrPU8qC0jT-Ag/s1600/Dec+2011+041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9ikIV7axtTqFwie0SIIFQMHaM2KtJdXqSJThtrVHJJ_y2kPJ4xOm7EwmTUla19d29zCYqEYBrbXwKl2TJJ6J04UNJT5B6orG0AgWpWeUQqgQPZI-tMPwBzeZCCMktjUwrPU8qC0jT-Ag/s320/Dec+2011+041.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtsLBXceWMRMibE6hGT3XkhXTc-GkKSLE4jJxNXWq135o8r8y_PNlGl7QwnUrbb-Bu5Em8XQ2_vYOSt6LYEpp8VthuH4YvgVHPALT1nIDkcKmNGE88Pe0XKL2dlLIlwS5kEm-HLo2kxDE/s1600/Dec+2011+043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtsLBXceWMRMibE6hGT3XkhXTc-GkKSLE4jJxNXWq135o8r8y_PNlGl7QwnUrbb-Bu5Em8XQ2_vYOSt6LYEpp8VthuH4YvgVHPALT1nIDkcKmNGE88Pe0XKL2dlLIlwS5kEm-HLo2kxDE/s320/Dec+2011+043.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>The Wood Table is a huge hit in our Project room, because it gives the children the opportunity to use real tools. Because safety is a concern I make sure the rules are clear before the children begin working away. I also limit the wood working table to two friends at a time, and only one friend can use a hammer at any given time. All was understood and thankfully there haven't been any accidents . But most importantly I am there to watch, guide and scaffold this wonderful activity. Next we will bring out the saw's!</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>Things I included at the wood working table were; hammer, nails, screws, screw drivers, real wood, branches, sand paper, and a chisel.</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>It is important to allow children opportunities to use real items as opposed to always using plastic imitative items. Although those items serve a great purpose in certain environments, using real "adult" items such as tools or even dishes, pots & pans, and silverware it really teaches children that number one we trust them, and number two it enhances their creativity.</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><h2>Benefits to Woodworking </h2><ul class="indent"><li>Dexterity/fine motor </li>
<li>Problem-solving </li>
<li>Role-playing </li>
<li>Creative thinking </li>
<li>Independence/self esteem </li>
<li>Comparing/measuring </li>
<li>Textures and properties </li>
<li>Conceptualization </li>
<li>Cooperation </li>
<li>Respect for tools and materials </li>
<li>Language development </li>
<li>Eye hand coordination</li>
</ul>I Work for Kidshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115014497765503036noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2102761524858893460.post-56002390325650125192011-11-27T19:46:00.000-08:002011-11-27T19:46:13.595-08:00Painting Gourds<div style="text-align: center;">In honor of the holiday Thanksgiving and for the harvest season, the children painted gourds in the Project room. Every single one came out so unique, and the children were fascinated with the various shapes and sizes. Many were excited to be able to take theirs home and add it to their Thanksgiving decor. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY7kEorAWf7B4VA6N4dBw7zdQu5ZX34yhBLHZF2euuJP-ThDwWGvnhkq_-Syw_lVTgfTGwK82l6xPPFtxxTpvR5sZbFFB0jHEuANOzrYc02gNUnDPcWwpMp_ZtIy02mDyahAKLZ9JBYwE/s1600/project+room+gourds+2011+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY7kEorAWf7B4VA6N4dBw7zdQu5ZX34yhBLHZF2euuJP-ThDwWGvnhkq_-Syw_lVTgfTGwK82l6xPPFtxxTpvR5sZbFFB0jHEuANOzrYc02gNUnDPcWwpMp_ZtIy02mDyahAKLZ9JBYwE/s320/project+room+gourds+2011+001.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><br />
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</div>I Work for Kidshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115014497765503036noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2102761524858893460.post-12891142451553302702011-11-04T17:43:00.001-07:002011-11-04T17:43:24.766-07:00Window WritingNot very exciting but a huge hit with the kids! Plain ol window markers found at Target! The kids loved the fact they could write on the windows! Next week I'll expand on the idea and see what we can come up with<div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbC14R-7fSnjTRBkFKrVNMk21FKjppPoKPBpp1MTWAZQQ-ZjSTuVKaShwZc7088YC0h3kMHdAaVfftb5lCdnNDsbG3839_ET0OGVsxUqIcNlVZ3EPhwzY-CWO-lOcqFhLTRfOVCbZcwZc/s640/blogger-image--1286406545.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbC14R-7fSnjTRBkFKrVNMk21FKjppPoKPBpp1MTWAZQQ-ZjSTuVKaShwZc7088YC0h3kMHdAaVfftb5lCdnNDsbG3839_ET0OGVsxUqIcNlVZ3EPhwzY-CWO-lOcqFhLTRfOVCbZcwZc/s640/blogger-image--1286406545.jpg" /></a></div>I Work for Kidshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115014497765503036noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2102761524858893460.post-63242502956242758782011-10-26T21:14:00.000-07:002011-10-26T21:14:13.811-07:00My Crafty Side<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Omej7aPQW_qEaJFqBdZnc0oBlwbJb2U4N4VbV_h2fnqZ11wMjyw4Ur4LJETQaZwU6jgZCImqIhhDRb59ilg_I_K0CXnvN_CQgnNmtWKppn6WzK5m4zVvArasPA_Mq8svJRe9kQo-TsY/s1600/summer+pics+019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Omej7aPQW_qEaJFqBdZnc0oBlwbJb2U4N4VbV_h2fnqZ11wMjyw4Ur4LJETQaZwU6jgZCImqIhhDRb59ilg_I_K0CXnvN_CQgnNmtWKppn6WzK5m4zVvArasPA_Mq8svJRe9kQo-TsY/s320/summer+pics+019.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>I decided to step away from the classroom for a bit and show off my latest "crafty" project. A relative of mine had a baby shower and I offered to make a diaper cake. It is truly easier than it looks, and anyone can do it. I rolled a few diapers in the core and held them together with rubber bands, than fanned diapers around the outside. I then hot glued ribbon around each tier to hold the diapers in place. I then hot glued some decorations, letters and placed a Hello Kitty on top. I stuffed the top of the tier with shredded paper and placed it on a cake base. All my items were found at Micheal's and took me approximately an hour to assemble.</strong></div>I Work for Kidshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17115014497765503036noreply@blogger.com0