Centers and Circle Time

Have a Digital Camera Field Trip in Preschool

noreply@blogger.com (Centers and Circle Time) — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 17:00:00 +0000

Yesterday, I mentioned using your digital camera as an alternative to taking a field trip outside the classroom. Today, I had an opportunity to create a neighborhood field trip using my digital camera. I took the photos and I'm considering turning them into a book to put in our library. This would be the perfect addition to the unit on "Community" we do at the beginning of the school year. I've added some ideas and questions I might want to ask.

What is this sign? Can you see a number? What does it make you think of?

Have you ever been to a 7-11? What was your reason for going?

Have you been here before? Some friends go here when they are sick.

Some friends go here when they need shots to keep them well.

What can you tell me about your visit here?

What do you think this place is for? Why?

Do you remember passing one of these? What is it?

What does the red and white striped pole remind you of?

This is a place where people might sit and wait.

What might they be waiting for? How do you know?

What else could you do while you're waiting?

I chose most of these familiar places because of the location of the center. Most of my students live near or in the area and would have been to or at least seen these places before.

I look forward to hearing about your alternative to field trips.

Your Friend,

Preschool Alternatives to Field Trips

noreply@blogger.com (Centers and Circle Time) — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 17:00:00 +0000

Its becoming more and more common that Child Care Centers are taking less field trips. For one, field trips require additional time, money and staffing. Second, field trips are a liability. One missing child, or a child left on the bus could be the end of a thriving center. Last, transportation is a big issue for small and large centers alike.

Don't let the fact that your facility cannot provide field trips stop you from finding field trip alternatives. Here's a few ideas to get the ball rolling.

Bring the field trip to you.
I've had many field trips in my classroom over the years. People in your community are more than happy to stop by and share their passion with your class.
-The Zoo (ask what animals they may be able to bring)
-The Library
-The local supermarket
-The bakery (ask for a discount or coupons for your parents)
-The fire station (ask them to bring stickers and hats)
-The local police department (ask them to bring deputy stickers)
And many, many more!

Create the field trip in your classroom.
Find props, recruit parents and friends to send items related to your field trip.
-If you're class is studying a specific culture:
Encourage your parents to bring in painting, pictures, mugs, or anything that represents that
particular unit of study.
-If you're studying a particular place:
  What items can you find that are associated with the place?
  For example, if you're studying the beach you might want to
  bring in shells, a big umbrella, beach towels, swim suits, sunglasses, etc.

Take advantage of technology.
Make use of your dvd player, ipod, video camera, the internet, and digital camera.
-The dvd player
The library has a great collection of dvd's about places, people and events especially for children.
-The Ipod
Find music related materials of even stories about your field trip.
-The Video Camera
  You go on the field trip and shoot video of the place you'd like to share. Enjoy it with your class.
-The Internet
  There's a fantastic site called KidvisionVPK. The teacher Mrs. Peggy and her students go on
  exciting field trips and invite you to come along.
-The Digital Camera
  Take still photos of the place. Bring the photos to school and share them in circle time,
  create a photo center or even use them to make a slide show.

Keep in mind field trips are fun. They help children tie together the lessons you've been teaching. They provide valuable learning experiences and promote an expanded vocabulary.

Even if your school or childcare facility shy away from field trips. You can still provide some rewarding field trip alternatives right in your own classroom.

Preschool Painting With Celery

noreply@blogger.com (Centers and Circle Time) — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 14:38:00 +0000

Welcome Back Friends from your Thanksgiving vacation. I hope you all had a fabulous holiday. I spent a few hours in the kitchen on Thanksgiving morning preparing a big dinner for my family. One of my tasks was to dice the vegetables for the stuffing. When I got to the celery I notice what a beautiful flower it made inside once the stalks were removed. Of course I couldn't wait to see what it would look like covered in paint. This project is perfect for younger preschoolers whose fine motor skills aren't fully developed.

This is how the celery looked when I cut the stalks off. Isn't that pretty?

I put orange paint in the bottom of a plastic bowl, and dip the celery inside.

Celery is usually inexpensive especially around the holidays. You could use the stalks for some yummy snacks dipped in Ranch dressing or make Ants On A Log.

Preschool Thanksgiving Hats and Head Pieces

noreply@blogger.com (Centers and Circle Time) — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 14:29:00 +0000

It's almost Thanksgiving! In this unit we learned about the Pilgrims and the Native Americans.

We talked about the clothes they wear, the food they prepared and how they lived.

We planned our own Thanksgiving feast and enlisted the help of another teacher to pull it all off.

We created some hats and headpieces to wear for our Thanksgiving feast.

Here a some of our creations.

The Native American girls used crayons and markers to decorate their head piece.

They chose feathers to tape in place and finish the look.

The boys did similar head pieces using more feathers.

The Pilgrim boys used black, white and yellow construction paper to make their hats.

We measured the bands around their head.

Then, the students glued the front of the hat to the band.

The Pilgrim girl hat was a little more tricky and required more adult help.

We used butcher paper to fold in place and added string to secure along the bottom.

What a great addition to our Thanksgiving unit!

Feel free to link your Thanksgiving ideas below.

The Class Tepee

noreply@blogger.com (Centers and Circle Time) — Sun, 20 Nov 2011 11:19:00 +0000

Tepee:
noun: tent of the American Indians, made usually from animal skins
laid on a conical frame of long poles, having an
opening at the top for ventilation and a flap door.

Last year one of my pretty handy dads built a tepee for our class. During our Thanksgiving unit we talked all about what it must have been like to live in a place with no running water, no bathrooms and no TV to watch. The tepee was considered a classroom center.

The kids were allowed to take books and toys inside when was their turn.

Click here to view these pictures larger

Using Cereal Boxes in Preschool

noreply@blogger.com (Centers and Circle Time) — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 16:26:00 +0000

A few days ago I noticed I had a some left over cereal boxes. I thought I'd share with you some ideas to incorporate cereal boxes in your class.

Try putting rice or beans inside and tape the box. Using them in your housekeeping area is always fun. They don't last very long but they can be replaced easily with a few good parent volunteers.

Here's some other ideas.
Environmental Print: Pre-Reading Skills
First, carefully cut the front, back and sides of the cereal boxes.
These are just fun to post on the walls and use as environmental print.
Or, have students match the fronts with the backs.

Cereal Box Puzzles
Next, try using the front of the box to make a puzzle.
Place your puzzle in the quiet area or dramatic play.

Book Marks
Then, trim the sides of the box to make book marks.
Why not punch a hole in the top and add yarn for a tassel?
These inexpensive book marks can be used in your library or reading center.

Books and Journals
Last, try creating books or journals.
Take the front and back of a box, use a hole puncher to punch holes in both.

Use construction paper or writing paper for pages. Secure your book with yarn, string, etc.

Have any cool cereal box creations? Feel free to link your cereal box ideas below.

Would you like this cereal box link list to appear on your blog?

Grab the "blog hop" code at the end of this post.

Preschool Native American Vests

noreply@blogger.com (Centers and Circle Time) — Sun, 13 Nov 2011 15:36:00 +0000

It's always a great idea to get acquainted with the neighborhood grocery store. One of my favorite places is my local Winn Dixie Supermarket. I make regular visits and the manager is never surprised when I ask for classroom help. I went in and asked for brown grocery bags for each of my students to create indian vests for our Thanksgiving Feast. As usual, they were more than happy to help.

Here's what we did. I carefully opened each bag from the top and along the side seam. I opened them up and laid them flat. Then, I turned the Winn-Dixie logo on the inside.

I made a u-shape for the neck and openings for the arms. My assistant taped each shoulder strap, and wrote the child's name on the inside. We made little slits along the bottom to create a fringe look.

The children chose 2 different colors to make handprints on their vests.

While some students created handprints others were busy with markers and crayons decorating.

We decided to take some early photos of the finished product since I'd be too busy to remember the day of the feast.

We're "thankful" for our local Winn-Dixie for supporting our class and Early Childhood Education.

Preschool ways to appreciate Veterans Day!

noreply@blogger.com (Centers and Circle Time) — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 15:53:00 +0000

My 3rd grader woke up this morning and dressed in her Fourth of July flag t-shirt and blue jeans. I thoughtfully tied red, white and blue ribbons in her hair. She asked her sisters who they were thanking this Veterans Day. She told us she was thanking her school janitor who fought for our country. Veterans Day is not just reserved for school-age children, preschoolers can appreciate Veterans in their own small ways.

Here's a few cute ideas to show your appreciation today.

Create thank you pails. Allow the kids, teachers and administrators to write notes on strips of construction paper. Put the notes in the pail and tell your favorite veterans how much you appreciate them.

Use stickers to decorate cards, posters and murals saying

"Thank You" veterans!

Decorate your classroom for parents that are veterans. Prepare a special veteran cookie bag just for them. Remember to take pictures of the class and the child for a special keepsake.

My class did this for the Fourth of July but it looks awesome for veterans. Use streamers to decorate your fence. Hang a sign that says "We appreciate You".

Here's a completed flag on our outside play area.

We also used this same streamer for the Fourth of July, it's still appropriate to create a letter

"T" for "Thanks".

A Patriotic "Thank You" hat to wear home.

Use red, white and blue craft items to create a unique collage gift.

Hope you encourage your preschoolers to say
Happy Veterans Day,

Displaying Books for Preschoolers

noreply@blogger.com (Centers and Circle Time) — Sat, 05 Nov 2011 14:45:00 +0000

"So please, oh PLEASE, we beg, we pray, Go throw your TV set away, And in its place you can install, A lovely bookshelf on the wall."

— Roald Dahl, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

You may not throw the TV away, but there's no reason you shouldn't have a book display. One of the easiest ways to get your preschooler interested in books and reading is to create a display for books. This is an essential in any preschool classroom but takes a little effort in your home or home day care.

Find a some-what secluded area.
Gather as many different kinds of books as you can.
Store them on a small shelf, shoe rack, or crate facing forward.
If you have to use a crate leave enough space so the fronts of the books are visible.
Provide books related to the season, theme or event in the child(ren)s life.
Change out books accordingly, leave the favorite books to be read again and again.

After I wrote this post one of my Anonymous readers suggested I check out book slings.
If you're feeling pretty crafty you should check out "book slings" too. They seem fairly easy, fun and you can customize them too.

Head over to Penny Carnival to get instructions on making a book sling.

I also found some great display ideas at

Chic & Cheap Nursery.

The Ups and Downs of Climbing in Preschool

noreply@blogger.com (Centers and Circle Time) — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 14:09:00 +0000

In almost every preschool the monkey bars are a big hit. There is something so free-ing about climbing to the top and looking down on spectators. It's magical to monkey from one side all the way to the other side.

A few years ago, a students in the preschool where I worked at fell off the monkey bars and knocked out her front tooth. The teachers on the playground were beside themselves with worry. Thankfully, the parents were completely understanding, since she was the "tom boy" of the family. After she was all cleaned up and the space where her tooth had been finally stopped bleeding she was back on the monkey bar again. Understandably, her teacher shrieked with fear and ordered her "down from there". It was a long time after that before any kids were allowed to climb those monkey bars. Here are some "ups" and "downs" to consider when using or installing monkey bars that will make them and keep them a big hit.

The Downs

If children aren't properly supervised there is always an increased chance of injury
Callused hands; from holding the equipment so tightly
Bruises; from bumping the equipment
Injuries to the mouth
Falling
Sprains
Broken bones

The Ups

Climbing is Fun
Exercise
It's a work-out they probably wouldn't get a home
Builds confidence
Can be solitary, parallel, associative or cooperative play
Provide opportunities to come up with new ways to use the same equipment

Here are some tips to keep you from going bananas

Always check the equipment for safety before you allow children to play on it
Always ensure there is enough ground covering under the play equipment
Always discuss your expectations on the play equipment
Stand close by and be ready to lend a hand
Encouragement from you improves their confidence and lessens the chance of injury
Limit the amount of children on the monkey bars at one time
Remind and model taking turns

Unfortunately, there's a chance there will still be accidents. You can do everything right and there's still bound to be some bumps and bruises along the way. The most important thing is you're informed, prepared and ready to take action.

Here's to the "up" and "downs" of climbing in Preschool,

My Preschool Teacher Deals & Steals

noreply@blogger.com (Centers and Circle Time) — Wed, 25 May 2011 19:17:00 +0000

The Budget is always super tight for a teachers. I flip through the catalogs and daydream of all the cool projects and toys I'd love to buy for my class. I'm pretty resourceful and super thrifty when it comes to shopping. Although, I do fairly well, I still miss out on super deals and bargains that could save me a fortune in the classroom. Here's where I got even more resourceful! I just recruited one of the best bargain hunters to bring you (and me) the best deals on teaching materials and supplies! Aren't you excited!? Meet Maranda! Maranda runs website called frugalfreeloader.com. On her site she shares the best coupons and bargains for thrifty teachers like us. Welcome Maranda to the Centers and Circle Time Family!

Meet Shameka owner of Komfy Kidz Playhouse

noreply@blogger.com (Centers and Circle Time) — Mon, 23 May 2011 15:56:00 +0000

When I first began my career in Early Childhood Education, I was a Family Childcare Provider. A Family Childcare Provider provides care for children in their home. My days were filled with learning activities, snacks, home cooked lunches, trips to the library and the park. After our third year in business I decided I wanted to go back to school and learn some more! I didn't return to Family Childcare instead I began teaching in Centers. A great deal of my Facebook friends and Fans are Family Childcare Providers and the other day I got to reminisce about the good ole days while chatting it up with a super star Family Childcare Provider, Shameka who is the owner of Komfy Kids Playhouse in Atlanta, GA.

C&CT: So tell me, what made you become a Family Child Care Provider?
Komfy: I've always wanted to work with kids in some way since I was a kid myself. I didnt even know Family Child Care existed until I began attending classes to obtain my CDA back in 2005. My goal then was to become a certified Pre-K teacher. However, when I learned about the existence of Family Child Care Providers, I knew then that would be my ultimate goal. To some day open up my own in home daycare where I could create my own program."And here I am today: A Licensed, Nationally Accredited Family Daycare Home since 2007!"

C&CT: How did you choose your business name?
Komfy: When I received my papers in the mail approving me as a licensed home daycare back in February 2007, I knew right then that I wanted to use a name for my services. I asked myself what kinds of services or environment I would offer. I felt that my home would be a place where kids could be comfortable while learning inside a playful environment. So I thought Komfy Kidz Playhouse.

C&CT: What was the biggest challenge to being a FCC provider?
Komfy: The biggest challenge I believe was standing by my program policies in the very beginning.

C&CT: How does professional development fit into FCC?
Komfy: It helps to equip family child care providers with the training, knowledge, and resources needed to provide above average, quality in home care that will help prepare children for school and life.

C&CT: What agencies do FC providers have to be accountable to?
Komfy: These agencies include State Licensing, Food Program Sponsors (to help providers serve nutritious meals and snacks to children in care), Local Family and Children Services (that offers subsidized childcare assistance to families in need) and other agencies that some providers may voluntarily acquire such as the National Association for Family Child Care(NAFCC).

C&CT: What is the best part of your day?
Komfy: The best part of my day is witnessing a child portraying things he/she has learned by being apart of my program even when it is the smallest of things.

C&CT: What is the worst part of your day?
Komfy: I wouldn't say that I have a 'worst' part of day. That would mean that I have a worst day every day that I am open. I stand corrected to say that there are times when I have a not so great day which doesnt happen EVERY day.

C&CT: What do you think of parents who say FCC providers don't teach?
Komfy: I would say they are simply undereducated how children learn during their first 5 years of life. They do not know that everyday is a learning day.

C&CT: How do you separate home life from work life when work is in the home?
Komfy: I believe that most times they mesh when you're a family child care provider because we do a lot of things that is normally done in my home on a regular basis. The thing that is separated the most would be the paperwork and my own family's personal space such as the bedrooms. I don't mind sharing my living room or open spaces. However, in order to separate the two on non-business days or non-business hours, I try to leave the daycare part out of my day and tend to family affairs only.

C&CT: I hear you may be starting a blog soon? Is that true and if so can you share some details with my readers?
Komfy: Yes, and I am so excited to do so! I have lots to write about and share. I've had so many ideas and topics floating around in my head and now I get to let those ideas out through my very own blog! In my blog, you will find snapshots or should I say 'little sticky notes' about my life as a mom and home daycare provider. There will be lots of posts related to the crafts we do at home, science projects, outdoor play, ideas for childcare providers, preschool learning, and more.

C&CT: Do you have a name and address for this new blog?
Komfy: As a matter of fact, it's "My little Sticky Notes" and the blog address is http://mylittlestickynotes.blogspot.com/

C&CT: What would you like to tell others that are considering FCC?
Komfy: Do it! LOL! But be educated about it. Know the rules and regulations set forth by YOUR states licensing agency. Take advantage of resources that are out their specifically for family child care providers. And most of all, NETWORK! I cannot stress that last part enough. Having the support, advice, etc. from another family child care provider can be very beneficial. Not to mention to be able to relate to someone of the same field.

Thank you Shameka for opening your home and heart to parents looking for a comfortable place to educate their children. We love receiving your posts on Facebook and look forward to your new blog.

Your Friend,

Shameka

Owner/Operator

Komfy Kidz Playhouse

Atlanta, GA

For more information on starting your own Family Childcare Business, check out the resources below.

Preschool Oatmeal Box Craft

noreply@blogger.com (Centers and Circle Time) — Fri, 20 May 2011 15:32:00 +0000

I've always seen projects using oatmeal containers. Teachers usually make drums for toddlers, Easter baskets, Halloween baskets, Valentines collectors and so much more! My family rarely eats enough oatmeal that I can take advantage of these awesome projects. But yesterday, after making breakfast, to my surprise there was no more oatmeal! Oh boy! I couldn't wait to pull out craft supplies and decorate that treasured container. Here's what I did...

First, I shook out all the loose bits of remaining oatmeal, and admired the container upright.

Yes, it is a preschool teachers treasure.

Next, I found some pretty wrapping paper that one of my kids received on a birthday present last year. We had folded it nicely and stored it with our scrap booking supplies. It wasn't in the best shape for this project but I figured I could make it work.

There was left-over paper gathered at the top, I folded it gently inside the top of the container.

Then, I pulled out the felt. I used it to cut out a circle bigger than the circumference of the container top and secured the felt on the top with my hot glue gun.

Last, I took put a ribbon around the entire top and tied it neatly in a bow.

How fabulous!

Didn't you just love this?

Here are more awesome oatmeal container projects.

Check out this drum featured on

Hot Glue Gun Crafts by Craftzilla

And this nature can by Anna Satler on DIY life. It's perfect for collecting rocks, leaves, flowers and maybe even

creeping, crawling, creatures.

And who wouldn't fall in love with this adorable Valentiene Mailbox box?

You can find this on the allkidsnetwork.com.

Sure, Halloween is a long ways away, that means you can start collecting

now to make this precious pumpkin turned jack-o-lantern.

See Dim Sum, Bagels, and Crawfish for instructions.

And I couldn't forget the most wonderful time of the year! Here's

a oatmeal container craft guaranteed to get you in the Christmas spirit.

See how Mary Ann makes gift containers from the recycling bin!

Happy Crafting

Hide all

The Preschool Newsletter

noreply@blogger.com (Centers and Circle Time) — Sat, 23 Apr 2011 01:50:00 +0000

When I taught preschool for my church it was mandatory to have a newsletter each month. The parents loved the idea of knowing what was coming up and reminiscing about what awesome theme we had already completed. What a treat to see your son/daughter praised in the newsletter. The announcement of their baby sister, the fact that they knew all their alphabet, or their birthday celebration. These were all topics to put in our class newsletter. Still, each month there would be audible moan and groans when it was time to collect the monthly newsletter.

The number one complaint the teachers would have each month was they didn't know what to put in the newsletter! Is that your complaint? Do you sit staring at a blank screen? A half completed sheet of paper? I came up with a few basic ideas and even sample newsletters to get your creative mojo hummin'.

The Basics of your newsletter:
The basics of your newsletter should always include your name, class, date, and the school or center name. This makes it easy for you to find, and parents to keep.

What should I include in my newsletters?
Your newsletter can include almost anything you want to share with your parents. Use some of these questions to help you complete your newsletter.
Do you have your monthly activities pre-planned? Add your upcoming projects.
Is there something bugging you? Add a "note from the teacher" place your pet-peeve there.
Is there a holiday coming up?
Is there any birthdays this month?
Do you need a volunteer this month?
Would you like a special guest?
Is there an upcoming field trip?
Are you children working on a new skill?
Did you take a new Early Childhood Class? Share your thoughts and opinions.
Are you receiving a degree, credential, or grant you'd like to share?
Do you need new materials?
Any of these would make great material for your newsletter.

What Programs to use?
As you can see there are so many ways you can build an awesome newsletter in no time. When I worked on my PC, I used the Publisher to create newsletters. I've also saved my work as "Word" document and used pretty dollar store themed border for my newsletters. Now that I use a Mac, I use their "Pages" program to create newsletters. Some of my colleagues prefer to hand write their newsletters and just make copies. You can use whatever method that works best for you. Here are some sample newsletters.

This newsletter I created in 2008 using the Word Publisher Program. It highlighted St. Patrick's Day, what was coming soon, and some Easter Fun activities.

The newsletter below was created using my Mac in September. If you notice, I've featured some of the students and their parents on the left hand side. In the middle of the page I highlighted themes we would work on in the future. Then on the far right there's a thank you note, reminders, and a wish list.

Why do I need a newsletter anyway?

You certainly don't need a newsletter. But, creating one is an awesome way to communicate with your parents. It can also serve as a keepsake for parents who enjoy collecting their child's memories. One of my parents would send a copy to the grandparents who live out of state. And, it's a perfect way to remind you of the projects and activities that were successful.

Other ways to utilize newsletters.
Create your newsletter and email them to parents to save paper.
If you home school have your children create the newsletter each month as a writing assignment.

Want even more?
Beth Newingham writes a blog for older students but her newsletters are awesome for any age group.
Debra Henk also shares her newsletters here.
I loved these printable newsletters from The Teachers Desk.
Check out Kevin's free printable borders, they're perfect for newsletters.

Happy writing,

It's Spring and Love is in the air

noreply@blogger.com (Centers and Circle Time) — Thu, 14 Apr 2011 16:45:00 +0000

It's Spring! The flowers are blooming, the sun is shining and love is in the air. You say Love in Preschool? Yes, you read it right! It's common and there's not been a year I've taught that I didn't have a least one couple in my class. What's uncommon this year is that it's been the same boy but three different girls! His latest "girlfriend" plays with him in Centers, holds his hand on the playground, and positions herself in front or behind him in the line. They make it a habit to sit next to each other and strategically plan to create Art projects for each other. I must say I do discourage kissing as I tell them they may spread "germs" but they're welcome to hug, and they do hug every chance they get. As soon as one arrives in the morning, they're looking for the other half. When the other half arrives they run and hug like they're long lost relatives. During our Martin Luther King lesson I caught an image of them sitting on her cot reading a book together.

The parents thinks it's hilarious. The teachers think they're too much! I think they're both the sweetest kids attempting to imitate the relationship they see between their parents.

A Preschool Hideaway: My Own Space

noreply@blogger.com (Centers and Circle Time) — Wed, 13 Apr 2011 16:12:00 +0000

In your classroom there should always be a place for children to "escape". Some teachers refer to this as the "quite area" or "cozy corner". In our class there is a little corner between our cots and library that the students have designated on their own as their "hideaway". Yes, we have a designated "quiet area" but this is something quite different. This is a place to be secretive, to drag toys, to hide dolls, to talk to yourself, or to create with a friend. In the beginning, I used to discourage their quaint little space since it was by the back door (which we never use) and if they ducked down, it was hard for me to monitor their activities. However, each day one, two, sometimes three students would squeeze in the space and they seemed to be having the best time ever! Obviously, they really loved the space and I really love them so I strategically position myself near the space so I can monitor them and the whole class and we're as a happy as a school family can be.

If there's not enough space in your classroom for a hideaway, You can always create one. Here's a few ideas to get you started.

Place two chairs far enough apart that a sheet will fit over them both. Fold the sheet back enough that you can still see inside.

This little hideaway I created outside, using small chairs.

I used clothes pins to secure the sheet.

This big one I created inside using adult sized folding chairs.

The clothes pins are secured under the backs of the chairs.

And, this cute little structure was abandoned outside a church on the curb. I was more than happy to take it off their hands. It's made from PVC pipe. I keep it at my house, but I will occasionally bring to school to use as a hideaway.

Happy Hideaway!

Preschool Keepsakes

noreply@blogger.com (Centers and Circle Time) — Tue, 12 Apr 2011 15:05:00 +0000

Throughout the year I love creating keepsakes for my parents. It can be a card, a photo, or a Thanksgiving placemat. My favorite keepsakes are handprints and footprints. Two years ago, when my daughter was in Kindergarten her teacher created the cutest calendar keepsake using the students handprints. Luckily, I happened to be in the classroom volunteering one day and got to help create the handprint for that month. Take a look at how cute these are.

Mrs. Kovarik created a complete set of pages for the cover and each month of the year. They were reproduced so each child would have their own copy. I covered my daughters name with a sticky note. But each child's name is on the front of their book. The children choose the handprint colors they wanted on the outside of the book and Mrs. Kovarik choose the colors for each month.

Here's the handprints for February Heart and the March Leprechaun.

To save time and money she only laminated

the front and back pages of the book.

Here's the handprints for the June Tulip and the August sun.

The tulip is only the palm of the hand.

I'm looking forward to sharing this keepsake

with my daughter when she's all grown up!

A special thanks to Mrs. Kovarik for all of her hard work

and making it a memorable first year for my baby girl:)

10 Preschool Ideas for "Week of the Young Child"

noreply@blogger.com (Centers and Circle Time) — Tue, 05 Apr 2011 12:06:00 +0000

It's that time again! Early Childhood Educators all over the world are gearing up for Naeyc's annual
"The week of the Young Child". Here are some ideas for you upcoming week

1. Special Feature:

Create a slide show featuring your class, enter text supporting the importance of a child's early years. Invite parents for your special presentation. Serve popcorn and drinks!

2. Our Special Book:

Have your parents each contribute to writing a class book. Each parent send in a note about what makes their child special and a picture of their child or take pictures during class. Read your "special" book during story time or circle time. Watch how your kids face light up when you read their "special" page.

If the idea of creating a book on your own seems overwhelming, enlist the help of a professional. I had Personal Child Stories create a unique book for each one of my students for Christmas. I provided the pictures and some text, and they did rest! A unique treasure they can keep forever.

3. Footprints:

From earlier posts you know how much I enjoy footprints! Why not take your shoes off?! Have each child create a footprint on a piece of construction paper. Add the words, "I'll be walking in your footsteps someday".

4. What I want to be:

Ask your children what they want to be when they grow up. Use your learning centers to show how their aspirations and early childhood learning are correlated. For example, If Nicole wants to be a doctor, take a picture of her in the dramatic play area with her "lab coat" and "stethescope". Create a bulletin board with the words, "How Early Childcare Prepares Me".

5. Story Tellling:

Have a "celebrity" or "community" story teller visit your class each day. Have them bring a book related to their field. If they're a basketball player ask them to read about basketball. Parents are the perfect resources. They're always willing to come in and read to your students or know someone that will.

6. My Community Loves Me:

Make a point to call or visit your local grocery store, bank, dentist office, and restaurant in your area. You should already have a relationship with them, if not now is the perfect time to get acquainted. Ask would someone be willing to be a "guest" speaker in your class. Be sure to tell them you're creating "goody" bags to take home at the end of the week and they're more than welcome to bring coupons, samples, etc. to send home.

7. Class Declaration:

Create a class declaration. Each day ask the students what's so great about coming to school each day. Record their answers on a long piece of butcher paper and leave it as a display. At the end of the week type up the declaration with each child's cute responses to send home. "Painting is awesome"- Darryl, "Mrs. Myra's funny" - says, Javia

8. It's Free:

Yes, it's true, people love to get something for free! To raise awareness for Early Childhood Education invite the public in for something free! A free art class, a free tour, a free storytelling, etc.

9. Carnival Week:

Tell your parents you'd like to celebrate the Week of the Young Child by having a carnival. Encourage each parent to do something fantastic like rent a popcorn machine, cotton candy maker or carnival games. Pull our all your carnival related activities to do throughout the week.

10. A Party?:

Of course! When all else fails I love to celebrate my kids by having a party. Have each child bring something special and tell them we're celebrating because, "you're just that important".

For more ideas for the "Week of the Young Child"

visit Naeyc
or
Visit my post from last year "Planning for the Week of the Young Child"

Happy Planning,

Early Childhood Books with Extended Activities

noreply@blogger.com (Centers and Circle Time) — Wed, 30 Mar 2011 00:13:00 +0000

A few years ago I went to an Early Childhood Conference here in Orlando. One of the workshop presenters had us make this cute prop to tell the story "There was an old lady who swallowed a fly".

The old lady is actually a brown sandwich bag, her dress is made of construction paper. The mouth was cut so the pieces would fit inside and drop into the bag. We colored all of the small pieces first, cut them out, then laminated them. I've enjoy telling this story and the kids get a kick out of watching the old lady eat the props. Sometimes they say no, no, no and we all laugh like crazy once I put the pieces in her mouth.

Each year when I tell the story it's always a huge hit. It's so awesome, it got me considering a whole list of books with extended activities. When I posted this in our discussion group at Early Childhood Education there were over 30 responses. Here are some of the great ideas from our group.

Centers and Circle Time favorites:

"If you give a mouse a cookie" by Laura Numeroff
My class gets to bake cookies after we read the book.

"If you give a mouse a muffin" by Laura Numeroff
We usually read this story around Mothers Day so we can bake "Muffins for Moms"

"If you give a pig a pancake"

by Laura Numeroff

I send home a note to the parents

for every child to bring an item

and we have a complete breakfast

"Old Macdonald has a farm"
I usually read this with our "farm" unit.
The activity is a flannel board with
pieces I put out so the kids can re-tell the story.
It's pretty cool to hear them tell the
story in their own words.

And of course we all have to do this just once...

"Green Eggs and Ham" by Dr. Suess.

And then we get to make "green eggs and ham"

in our class.

Here are favorites from some of my friends.

Deborah loves to read "The listening walk" with her students.

"Then, then they go outside for a listening walk and talk about all they hear" says

Deborah.

Deborah has a wealth of Early Childhood ideas and knowledge, you can check out her work

at teachpreschool.org.

"It's Mine! by Leo Lionni and we make frogs afterwards. Paint a paper plate green,

fold it in half and glue to

bottle caps on the fold to represent eyes,

we also roll a strip of red construction

paper around a pencil and then glue

it on the frog for the tongue."

Thanks to

Angie Gregory

Kerrick Michelle Gills says,

"I love The Kissing hand, then we do an art activity with a kiss mark on a paper hand and then I give them a kiss with lipstick on their hands:)"

Teachr Cheryl Golangco told us...

"Goodnight Gorilla by Peggy Rathmann! It's a picture book and the only words are "Goodnight" and the animal names. After listening to the story, we would make gorilla masks, animal sounds, zoo animals using tissue tubes and of course... my favorite culminating activity for the story.. a PAJAMA PARTY...oh and it's potluck! :)"

Laura Balma Eldredge said...

"Love these ideas! My favorite activities are ones that we can combine with books. "One that we did at the beginning of the year was "Llama Llama Misses Mama" and we talked about all the feelings that Little Llama had about going to school. We then took pics of the kids making faces of different feelings (mad, sad, happy, etc) and put them together into a book of emotions"

You can find this activity and a related activity on Laura and Tressa's fabulous website "theseedsnetwork.com" where their mission is to provide early childhood professionals with the resources and services that support them in their quest to provide quality care and education to children ages six weeks to through age 5.

Hope you enjoyed our favorite picks. If you have a favorite book or activity feel free to share your book and activity in the comment section below.

Thank you to all my friends in the Early Childhood Education group you make everyday a fantastic learning experience for me and the families I serve.

Preschool Snack Rebus

noreply@blogger.com (Centers and Circle Time) — Wed, 16 Mar 2011 17:24:00 +0000

A rebus is a representation of words using pictures. You can create a rebus for teaching pre-reading skills in books, recipes, even name tags. One of my favorite ways to use a rebus is in our snack area. It gives the kids an opportunity to practice those pre-reading skills, follow directions and have fun.

This activity works beautifully when a second adult is in the class. It gives me an opportunity to be at the snack table monitoring, asking questions and recording observations. The trail mix rebus is on the table for the children to follow instructions. I can also read it as a book during Circle Time.

This recipe is for Ghost Toast. I found this recipe in a book a few years ago and created a rebus for my class to make the Ghost Toast during our Halloween week. I recently ran across a Haunted House rebus book to compliment our Ghost Toast.

Both rebus recipes are different but use the same concept. I created both with the idea that they had to be easy to transport and long lasting. The Ghost Toast rebus was made with regular sized pieces of construction paper taped together. Once they went through the laminator I was able to bend them back and forth (accordion style) to travel easily. I use heavy lamination and they have both lasted longer than 5 years!

Here's the Haunted House book and other rebus themed books:

Recycle, Renew and Reuse for Preschool

noreply@blogger.com (Centers and Circle Time) — Tue, 15 Mar 2011 16:42:00 +0000

I am pretty thrifty. I would imagine almost all preschool teachers are. I enjoy finding ways to recycle, renew and reuse items we've used before and creating something new and useful. On this thrifty day, Bella brought a lunch kit to school that contained a cute little water bottle perfect for little hands. We had left over foam pieces on the counter from a project we did the day before. I told the kids we should make something for our friends in the 2-year old classroom. They all agreed, and here's what we did.

We washed our bottle and made sure it was clean inside and out.

We chose the smaller foam pieces since they'd be easier to stick in the bottle.

We took turns placing the foam pieces in, this was great for our fine motor skills.

More pieces to add...

Then, we filled the bottle about half way with water.

I got out the hot glue gun to secure the cap.

We talked about what might happen if the babies were to get the top off.

Once our bottle was complete we talked about doing

things for others and how kind they were to make something the

toddlers could play with.

This project went over really well since some of my class have siblings in the 2-year old classroom. They'd ask their siblings if they played with the toy we made.

The two-year old teacher was fantastic in praising the kids for thinking of her class and she was very proud of them for using items they already had.

Since this was not a planned activity, just a "teachable moment" I didn't have a book planned for the activity but I did find some cute ones after the fact.

You might find these helpful if you're creating a theme or lesson plan.

Happy Creating

St. Patricks Day Ideas for Preschoolers

noreply@blogger.com (Centers and Circle Time) — Sat, 12 Mar 2011 03:43:00 +0000

Today I pulled out my St. Patrick's Day box to begin lesson planning.

Here's a glimpse of some of my treasures and some cool ideas for our upcoming theme.

We'll use these items in our Dramatic Play area. Sparkly green hats, shades, Mardi Gras beads, green stripped socks and green hair accessories.

"My Little Green Tambourine" is two paper plates with beans inside.

What a great compliment to Circle Time.

These lovely leprechaun mats were made years ago.

I placed two shamrocks on a white hard stock paper and had them laminated.

I use a green dry erase marker to write with. They wipe off and I can reuse

them the following year.

Each year I tell my class, "it's been said if you catch a leprechaun he has to

give you three wishes." "What would you wish for?" I record their answers and

post them all around the classroom.

This cute little leprechaun was made by my first grader last year in Mrs. Cordner's class.

I thought he'd be the perfect addition to my St. Patrick's Day theme.

Science: Green Water makes music?

For this experiment you'll certainly want pencil and paper handy to record predictions, observations,

and questions.

If I tap on the inside, top, or outside of the glass,

will that change the sound?

Can you play a song?

Yes, we just happened to have key-lime yogurt in the fridge!

I think I'll serve it with granola for a little leprechaun snack.

What can you do with a shamrock? Here's Dayjah

turning her shamrock into a puppy. She told me

she learned this in her first grade class. Coincidentally,

this daughter had Mrs. Cordner for first grade too!

I couldn't resist pulling out the green Easter eggs for Math.

I haven't decided what I'll use them for...

counting, sorting by tops and bottoms, or

writing matching numbers on them.

Oh the possibilities!

Happy St. Patty's Day

Books you might enjoy with your St. Patrick's Day theme.

Valentine Activities for Preschool

noreply@blogger.com (Centers and Circle Time) — Tue, 15 Feb 2011 05:11:00 +0000

Here are some of the Valentine's activities we did last year.

   We added flowers and play money in the dramatic play area for a
   Flower Shop.

We used hearts, X's and O's and teddy bear cookie cutters in our art area.

There were little pink heart cups in the sensory bins.

And here's the heart bags we created for our valentines cards.

We used stickers, cut out hearts, crayons, markers and yarn.

Some for the little hearts were cut out of gift bags.

Here are the completed projects!

Happy Valentines Day!

noreply@blogger.com (Centers and Circle Time) — Tue, 15 Feb 2011 04:31:00 +0000

I shopped all weekend long for my co-workers favorite things. I made cute little gift baskets to give to each co-worker and created a fabulous lesson plan, only to stay at home with my sick daughter. She had a fever over the weekend and we hoped she'd be better by Monday. Sadly, she spent the morning crying as she knew she would miss out on Valentines with her classmates. I assured her this would be the BEST Valentines ever. We spent the morning cuddling in bed watching cartoons. Then, painted her nails red with little white hearts. And daddy bought her lunch and flowers. She opened her Valentines from her sisters and ate chocolate on the couch. She felt well enough by afternoon to listen to her older sisters talk about their day. And after her goodnight hug and kiss this evening she stood in my doorway and said, "Thank you for making me feel better." No, I didn't get to see my class on Valentines day. No, I didn't get to give my co-workers their Valentines. But, Yes, it was certainly the best Valentines ever:)

Sharing Hair in Preschool

noreply@blogger.com (Centers and Circle Time) — Fri, 14 Jan 2011 22:56:00 +0000

During Circle Time the other day one of my students was very upset because the friend next to her touched her hair without asking. I explained that her hair was very beautiful and I'm sure her friend was just curious. Then, I looked at the "hair toucher" and said, "I'm sure if you would have asked she would have allowed you to touch her hair but you should ask next time." Of course someone raised their hand and asked, "Can I touch your hair?" No sooner than the "yes" came out of her mouth, more hands shot up. Once everyone was settled and we were all back on our bottoms criss-crossed applesauce another hand came up, "Mrs. Myra, Can I touch your hair?" I said, yes, and went on to explain how different my hair felt from almost everyone in the class. I took out one of my ponytail holders to show them the length. I explained when I pull my hair, it's long. However, as soon as I let it go the curls spring back tight again. After my demonstration everyone wanted to touch it. Some words they used to describe it was big, soft, squishy and puffy. I think this is going to be a great way to start off our Martin Luther King lesson next week.

Here's an awesome youtube video by Sesame Street.

I'm looking forward to sharing this too!

"I love my hair"

Happy Hair Sharing,