14 years ago I walked into my very first art room, full of so much excitement but also feeling totally overwhelmed wondering where to even begin!?
Learn how to set up a calm down corner for kids, with printables and calming tools to help them process big feelings and emotions.
Setting up a cutting box is a great way to have fine motor cutting practice for kids.
Can you crack the code? Use the Halloween decoder wheel to solve Halloween-themed riddles! This fun printable activity is easy to set up and perfect for kids who love secret codes and solving mysteries!
Find out what an underwater volcano eruption may look like through this fun, hands-on experiment! It's a really cool science activity for kids to discover what happens when you mix warm and cold water while learning about volcanoes at the same time.
Need a quick and easy math activity? Try this giant shape match! It's perfect for toddlers and preschoolers! A great indoor activity that kids will love!
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Setting up a kindergarten classroom at the beginning of the year can be an exciting, yet overwhelming. Whether you are a student teacher, or this is your last year teaching elementary school, I'm here to share
This Royal Classroom Transformation is a great activity for students to practice math skills while pretending to be royals for the day.
FUN Turkey Game that is both Thanksgiving activities, Fall STEM, and a physics science experimetn too! Try Turkey Races in November!
Our favourite educational toddler toys from Kmart and how we use them for play based learning.
Let's take a deeper look at the details in Nammi's room. There is a lot of inspiration! Click to see the beautiful pictures!
Set up this ice excavation activity and invite your children to explore ice sensory play and see what treasures they can find! Frozen ice sensory play ideas :: ice excavation The idea behind this invitation to play is to freeze interesting items inside blocks of ice for your children to release and […]
Need ideas for how to run successful math rotations in your special education classroom? Check out how I used these teacher run and independent skill centers to help my kids. I did this set-up with my kindergarten, 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grade sped students and they rocked it!
“Small world play is acting out scenarios (scenes from real life, stories and/or imagination) in a miniature play scene, created with small figures and objects. Anything from your own home or…
The Art center is a place where students can go to express their feelings, ideas, and be creative! Every child is an artist in the Art center! It is a place that promotes high-level thinking, problem-solving, and is rich in vocabulary. Students can learn and develop skills in all learning domains (language, literacy, math, science, social studies, fine motor, gross motor, and social skills) through art. It is an amazing place in your classroom if you are intentional with the materials and experiences you plan and set up for your students.This post contains affiliate links.
Time to digger a little deeper in to: What is it? Math by Myself pretty much is as it states - math that children can complete by themselves. It is worksheets, games, activities, puzzles, etc. that students can complete because they already have the content knowledge from the awesome lessons that you have taught as a teacher. How is it set up? I have a shelf in my classroom that holds my Math by Myself baskets. Each center (there are 9 for each unit) gets a basket. I sometimes have 2-3 centers to pick from at Math by Myself and other times I have all 9 out. As the year goes on, it is easier to have multiple centers at the Math by Myself station.* *Stations are the 3 main branches (Math by Myself, Writing, Math with a Partner) Centers are the options at each of the Stations (puzzles, race to 100, all about xx, sorts, ID pages, play-doh mats, flashcards, etc.) How does it work? After I teach a mini-lesson, students are able to pick a station. They pick math writing, math by myself, math with a partner, or they may be pulled to my table for a small group. At that station, they can work on any of the centers that are open. They stay at their station for the entire Daily 3 Math block (it can range from 10 - 25 minutes depending on the math lesson that day) but they are free to pick between any of the centers that are open at that station. How do they know what to do? I slllllooooowwwwwllllllyyyyyyyyy introduce the stations and centers at the beginning of the year, starting with my first Unit: #0 - 10. We practice each center together following the very common model: I use this model because I really want the students to understand what they are doing and how it should be done. This is so important to me because if they can grasp it during the first unit at the beginning of the year, they are set and ready to roll for the rest of the year. The units that I have created are modeled after one another so it makes it easy for the kids to use. We spend a long time learning these stations during the first unit - it makes the rest of the year that much easier. The choice at each station starts as just one simple center. As we learn to do more centers together, they are added to the stations. By the end of the unit (or sooner), they are choosing between 5 - 9 centers at each station. How is this different than the old "math centers?" My biggest complaint with the old "math centers" is that the kids forget what to do the next day. I would explain math centers at the beginning of the week and the students would rotate through them (one center a day for the entire week). Well, I was constantly getting questions. How do I do this again? What are we supposed to do here? This model allows students to be independent, understand what they are supposed to do, and use their time more wisely. My kids weren't getting to all the stations due to assemblies, field trips, snow, holidays, teacher work days, and weeks that weren't 5 days long. This allows them to work at their own pace, have choice, and do what they want to do. No need to make sure they do x worksheet and y worksheet. The copies with old "math centers" were horrible. So much to copy, so much to grade, so much to send home, such a waste. I laminate everything! I check in with students as they work. We erase and re-use. There is no center work going home. Parents are able to see what they are doing in class through assessments, worksheets from mini-lessons, and twitter - they don't need center worksheets as well. So, what do these centers at Math by Myself look like? There are a wide range of centers at Math by Myself, but I will share a few freebies that will hopefully get you hooked today! This is from Math by Myself Unit 1: #0 - 10 .... Students represent the number in multiple ways! This All About Center is carried out through every unit - the layout, questions, and representations just slightly change. Again, just laminate & you are good to go! This is from my Math by Myself Unit 2: Teen Numbers - This is similar format to Unit 1 where students are working on identifying and representing numbers greater than the number given. Again, just laminate & you are good to go! Who doesn't love a good puzzle!! This is from my Math by Myself Unit 3: Shapes - you print on cardstock & cut the triangle out. Cut along the black lines. Students work to put the puzzle together. Each Math by Myself packet contains puzzles! Another All About, just in a different form! This is from my Math by Myself Unit 4: Addition and Subtraction with 5. Students represent and solve the equation in a variety of ways. I laminate all the equations, stick them in a basket, and the kids work on various equations during Daily 3 Math time! This final freebie is from my Daily 3 Math by Myself Unit 5: Addition and Subtraction within 10. This is the Equation ID. The ID sheets are carried out through every Daily 3 Math by Myself packet! For this unit & worksheet, students color in the equations that equal 7. Again, I just laminate & let students use dry erase markers. I walk around and check & then we reuse them the next day! Be sure to check out all of my Daily 3 Math Products! Math by Myself - Unit 1: # 0 - 10 Math by Myself - Unit 2: Teen Numbers Math by Myself - Unit 3: Shapes Math by Myself - Unit 4: Addition and Subtraction within 5 Math by Myself - Unit 5: Addition and Subtraction within 10 Or check out the Math by Myself BUNDLE which includes all 5 of these Math by Myself Units! If you are feeling super adventurous, here is the MEGA Bundle, with All Daily 3 Math Stations for All 5 Units! It is over 100 Centers for your Classroom!
Many of you have been asking for my final short vowel "write the room" printable. Here (at long last!) is the set for short u words. Just in case you're new to "write the room,"
Get organized and set-up your classroom! Tons of back to school tips to organize teaching materials, student work, books, math supplies, and more. You won't want to miss the FREE student labels!
This week Sydney experienced a flood emergency. Families are displaced, rained in or have simply spent the week indoors to stay dry. So I've tried to post the easiest, the most engaging activity I could think of that would appeal to a wide range of children. It's also Plastic Free July so I've tried to set this activity up without using plastics. All of the materials for this activity I've found around our home. Above Otto (4yrs) is using our plastic-free Playdough Station. I created it as a surprise, knowing that he would love it even more if it was...
Building with sticks and playdough is a fun, inexpensive way to pass the time, develop fine motor skills, and foster creativity. My
Educational Posters Set For Playroom and Kids and Toddlers,Printable Home School Prints, Boho Educational Wall Art,Learning Poster,Alphabet Poster. Through boho educational posters set, children can learn more interestingly, but also to encourage learning everyday and making it more fun. ▶For spanish version : https://www.etsy.com/listing/1101223593/spanish-educational-posters-set-for?ref=shop_home_active_1&pro=1 - THIS IS A DIGITAL DOWNLOAD ONLY. - NO PHYSICAL PRINT WILL BE SHIPPED. - THE FRAME IS NOT INCLUDED WITH THIS. *THIS DOWNLOAD INCLUDES FILES ▶ Include File Size (7) - A2 (42 X 59.4 cm) - A3 (29.7 X 42 cm) - A4 (21 X 29.7 cm) - 8" x 10 " (20.3 x 25.4 cm) - 8.5" x 11 " (21.6 x 27.9 cm) - 11" x 14" (27.94 x 35.5 cm) - 16" x 20" (40.64 x 50.8 cm) ▶ Type of file : PNG & PDF ( High resolution files for printing ) Once you have made your purchase, you will receive the file via email, You can download it at anytime from the Etsy purchase page. ▶ How to download Your files will be available to download once payment is confirmed. Here's how: 1. Log into your Etsy account 2. Click the "You" tab 3. Scroll and click "Purchases and reviews" 4. Find your purchase and click "Download Files" 5. Click "Download" For more help please refer to the following Etsy article for assistance on how to access your instant downloads. https://help.etsy.com/hc/en-us/articles/115013328108-Downloading-a-Digital-Item ▶ Printing tips - Printer settings should be set to "Actual Size". - Do a test print before printing all in a file to make sure size is to your liking. *TERMS OF USE You can use for personal use only. The item cannot be resold for commercial use . I don't accept returns, exchanges, or cancellations. But please contact me if you have any problems with your order. *NOTICE Digital printing colors may be slightly different from screen colors due to monitor, paper quality, printers, etc. Thank you so much for visiting my ccanmistore!
Pondering about where to start with intentionally designing your environment for the start of the new school year can at times seem overwhelming. One key aspect to think about that is critical all …
Welcome to my Art Room version 2013! I like to switch up my room a little bit every year because A) the kids notice and always like ooh-ing and aah-ing over the changes, and B) I get a little bored and need a decorative outlet, and my own home can only tolerate so much. My theme this year was somewhat "crayon-y," "crayon-ish,"...hmmm, "crayon-esque?" My art room is a former gym locker room so it is very twisty and turn-y in the entranceway, so bear with me. We've been doing quite a few Dia de los Muertos projects, so there are some fun 3rd grade skellies on display in the Art Room entrance too. Below is my "What are we doing today board?" Before EVERY class I would have students asking me, "what are doing in art today?," and while I love their excitement, I found myself continually repeating, "wait until the whole class is in the room," or "I will tell everyone when the class is here," or on my tired art teacher days, "HOLD YOUR HORSES." So, here is my solution. It's a large, old bulletin board I picked up at Goodwill, covered with white dry erase material, dolled up with some borders, and VOILA: The reading rug where I will often gather students to read a story and introduce our next lesson before transitioning to the art tables. Behind the book shelf is my art trading card board, which students may use if they finish a project and have extra time. I worked as a Special Education Teacher for a few years before transitioning into Art Education, so I have some tools I use for behavior management in my room, such as the Choice Chair, which is for kiddos who sometimes just need a break. Each class also has an Arty Party pocket, where they must work together as a class to demonstrate safety, respect, learning, and problem-solving, and in turn, earn a "crayon." When classes earn 9 crayons, they have an Arty Party (which might mean a special project, a dance party, or more). Here are some more snapshots of my room, including one of my favorite teaching tools: my "What you need" magnets. The magnets are color photos I took of supplies around my room, laminated, and then added some sticky magnet backs. These magnets are super helpful for students with special needs who benefit from visual supports for following directions. The art tables color coded with baskets showing students' jobs What You Need magnets The Got Time? Make Art station Art Room Jobs Inspired by http://mrspicassosartroom.blogspot.com/ Got the idea for the Cool Art fridge from http://mrspicassosartroom.blogspot.com/. I adore her! And of course, no art room is complete without a shelf of crazy art teacher props. In future postings, I am hoping to write a little more about classroom behavior management, as well as, some tips I picked up during my Special Education days, so stay tuned. Until next time, Get Smart and Make Art!
Free set of printables to go along with Magnetic Tiles. Includes two levels of difficulty. Builds problem solving skills.
In my play based classroom there are 10 essential learning areas. I cannot do without them. The provocations and resources offered in these areas change throughout the year dependent on children's interests and the curriculum intent. The placement of these 10 areas within the classroom is thoughtf
Be inspired to set up invitations to play and learn using simple materials from nature with this collection of photos and ideas from early years educators!
Today's blog post will be a quickie. I was just so excited about my latest Target find, I had to share it with my teaching friends! So let's get started with our build a sight word fun! I knew it was going to be a good trip because this was the first thing I saw when...
A fun way to get your little ones more comfortable with writing, this Sensory Writing Tray is perfect if you want to familiarise young children with letters and numbers. Kids love this sensory experience so much that they will be begging to do some handwriting practice!
Learn how to plan and manage literacy centers through differentiated instruction activities, rotations, & behavior management strategies.
Click to read this blog post and be inspired to set up your own Reggio inspired classroom.
Use these free post office play printables to set up your own post office complete with a sign, stamps, and personal letter boxes!
Kindergarten learning centers are an excellent way to encourage your students to be more independent learners as they practice important skills.
Question of the Day is a fun activity to get kids learning RIGHT when they get into the classroom each morning. It is a great classroom management technique to get the school day on track right from the start.
Behavior Classroom Management Tool for Teachers. This would also work great in a homeschool environment. Quiet critters only come out of their jar when students are working quietly. They are a great tool to help control sound level and focus in a fun way. Each set includes 15-16 critters and their safe "sound proof", plastic 16oz jar. No two critters are alike.
Write The Room set includes: Write the Room Picture Cards Corresponding Word Wall Cards Corresponding Student Word List Differentiated Write the Room activities/recording sheets You may choose to differentiate for each student, put out a different recording sheet for each day of the week, or let students choose. My hope is to create as much flexibility as possible with this set to best serve you and your students. Be sure to check out my other Write the Room sets or save by purchasing them in a Bundle! Thanks for stopping by!
It can be overwhelming to think of setting up a homeschool room in your house - it doesn't have to be! Let me show you how simple it really can be to setup - especially if you you are working on a budget and only have a small space! #homeschool #classroom #homeschooolroom #smallspace #ideas #budget
A simple poster showing a rhyme to help your pupils remember how many days are in each month of the year.
These sight word activities are so easy to prepare! You can use them for preschool, kindergarten, and first grade -and even older students! I can see how many of these would work for kids in special education, too. #sightwords #teachingreading