Kreative Resources

Experiment Fun!

2012-03-05T17:49:00.001-08:00

We saw this link today and tried it out right away!

We filled the Ziploc with water.

Poked in a few pencils.

No leaking - too cool!

Then we took out the pencils - Geyser - that was fun!

We did this over and over until the holes were just too big to be effective.

Good wet fun!

Sharing

2012-03-05T10:17:00.001-08:00

As adults we do our utmost to ensure that children are sharing. Why? Because we want children to learn that within a large group there are times when we ~~must~~ should allow others to participate in using the same equipment in a fair and amiable manner. We simply don't have the funds or the resources to provide individual pieces of equipment for each child. We know that no matter what we provide the children will ultimately want the same item.
So how do we teach children to share?
Well - model this! Show children how to share. Set up situations where sharing is to take place and ensure that you are displaying how sharing is implemented. Your are the example for your child. Along side this - point out genuine sharing moments and praise them when they occur.
Toddlers will have a struggle with this - however it is imperative to be consistent in presenting a positive manner in which to share - while still having the 'right' to individual items. This is difficult especially if the child has their own toy in their possession. Even if the toddler reaches out to allow others to touch their toy - without giving the toy up - that in itself is a form of sharing and should be praised.
I am aware this can be a hot topic especially when the toy actually belongs to the toddler.
Must we 'make' the child share what is their personal possession?
There are many opinions on this. Some say, 'let the child have their own toy and keep others from touching it'. While others say, 'do not allow the child to bring personal toys into a childcare situation, where others may want to touch, or take that toy'. This alleviates any arguments or conflicts. Then there is the opinion that if the toy is brought into a group situation the child must learn to share that item. What ever your opinion the ultimate goal should be to teach the child a positive manner in which to deal with moments when sharing is imminent. Respect in this instance is to be foremost. Patience is a virtue.
When we make sharing fun - as in a game situation, there is more likelihood that sharing will take place. Also allowing your child to bring a special treat to share, could result in a better understanding of how others feel when sharing is done in a positive manner.
Keep in mind that toddlers are tenacious, and do not share in a purposeful manner. Developmentally they are just not there. It's a me, me, me age - it's all about them - hence adult intervention is key.
When your job is done correctly, sharing will take place when you least expect it!

The following two pictures were taken at the same play time and the children (2 to 2 1/2 years of age) independently chose these activities. Sharing took place without adult intervention. Praise was given for the sharing moments. The children (with the exception of one) have known one another for approximately 1 1/2 to 2 years. Sharing is instilled in many forms as described above. It appears as though these children are prepared for sharing.

Sharing one puzzle - taking turns to put the puzzle together.

Sharing a train set - each putting the tracks together as a team and dividing the cars equally!

Dental health

2012-03-04T05:48:00.002-08:00

Toddlers need to brush their teeth!
I feel funny saying this but, there are some people that don't introduce their toddlers to tooth brushing.
Healthy teeth means a healthy body - so it is very important for the teeth to be brushed at least twice per day.

Some parents have a concern over using fluoride toothpaste. It's OK to use fluoride toothpaste as long as you are encouraging spitting out and only a small pea sized amount is placed on the brush.

Then there is the fact that some parents don't have time for a battle to brush a toddlers teeth. All I can say to that is who's the boss? A good way to get around that battle is to introduce tooth brushing as early as possible and make it part of your daily routine. Parents can model good hygiene habits. Children will emulate parents behaviour, so if you are brushing so will they.

I have always introduced dental care in my classroom. Why? Well it is evident that some children are not practising good dental care by the odour emitted from their mouth and the fact that food can be seen on the teeth - and yes, some children come to school without their mouth wiped after they have eaten.

Practise makes perfect!

Halloween is when I start introducing dental care. Halloween hygiene!

Then throughout the year we revisit the issue to see who is in a good routine of tooth brushing. Which brings me to a great chart that I was privy to through an email contact here at Kreative Resources.

I was given this link to print out individual toothbrushing charts for each child to use at home. I must say I was impressed with the chart - but there was no futher information to present to parents. I felt it required a cover letter introducing the chart with some healthy dental tips for parents and a brief description on how to implement the chart. So I found myself creating my own so that parents would get why I was sending this home. I also would have loved some insentive stickers to place in the areas indicated - showing that tooth brushing had taken place. These could have been offered as a print out or through a mail in offer. The chart also says you win at the end - children will want to know what they win. We as adults get that they win because they have healthy clean teeth but children want something tangible. I always give out toothbrushes in my classroom - but along with the chart there could have been a certificate to print off indicating success.

It was suggested that the children take their chart to their own dentist to show the success they have had - because most dentists do have rewards to offer the children - good idea - as long as the dentist are on board and are aware of the chart and it's value. Again a cover letter to take along with the completed chart for the dentist would be great. This letter could include informing the dentist that this was a part of a school insentive to promote good dental care and a link where we got the chart so that the dentist could also pass the information along to their other patients.

All in all - I loved the chart and the chart was completed by 7 of the 17 children I have in my class. One family asked for another chart, because their son was routine oriented and enjoyed using the chart. Some used their own stickers to fill out the chart - while others simply had their child colour it in. Both well done!

Coloured in and stickers - both work!

Here is a reward certificate:

www.pottiestickers.com

I personally love the one above and this is the one I am presenting to my kids!

www.freeprintablebehaviorcharts.com/certificates

Some informative links:

www.colgate.ca

www.babycenter.com

www.askdrsears.com

toothdoctorva.wordpress.com

Other charts:

http://www.freeprintablebehaviorcharts/

I hope this post will encourage you to promote good dental hygine and to make it a part of your curriculum.

Please include how you practice good Dental Health!

Simple things are fun!

2012-02-29T17:30:00.000-08:00

I grabbed about a dozen dollar store necklaces.

They have been hung on ears...

worn in multiples...

admired...

...and carried in purses - well they were in there at one time.

Caring Friends!

2012-02-28T17:07:00.000-08:00

Friendships grow in our classroom!

Sometimes one recognizes when a little comfort and mentoring needs to be put in place -

and the adults don't have to say a word!

Bulletin Boards

2012-02-28T04:15:00.001-08:00

I am getting anxious for Spring to come !

I always push it with my bulletin boards.

The beginning of Spring!

I will be adding to this board as we get closer to Easter.

Think Easter baskets! Stay tuned! :)

This March board is almost identical to last years - I recycle sometimes.

Especially if the Tots like it! They love to search for their photo and the photo of their pals!

Masks

2012-02-27T04:23:00.002-08:00

Masks can bring out the wild in even the shyest of children.

Using masks opens the door for communication.

They transform us.

Masks allow us to be something we are not.

Sometimes we just want to be in a different realm - they help us let loose.

They make us giggle.

Pure entertainment - a chance to be funny and make other people and ourselves laugh.

Perhaps we would like to hide behind our mask.

Hiding in plain sight - why not!

Masks allow us to observe without feeling we are being observed ourselves.

Even if we don't get them on quite right - we still have fun!

We can transform ourselves quickly without much effort.

Here are some masks to make:

masks.

animal masks

templates - oblong shaped mask

Using masks for ESL:

ESL drama games

Pay it Forward gift in Spain!!

2012-02-22T10:09:00.000-08:00

WOW our gift to SPAIN! already arrived!

It got there in one week - I hope they enjoy it!

PAY IT FORWARD was so fun!!

PLAY respected!

2012-02-21T18:18:00.000-08:00

I think we can all agree that play is the fundamental way in which children learn. We have heard the quote, “Play is the true work of childhood.” Children will thrive intellectually, physically, and socially through play. Simultaneously, communication skills are enhanced through play. During play children will explore, experiment, develop friendships and share on many different levels. So play is definitely the quintessential element in early childhood development.

So where should that play take place? Some advocate mainly outdoor play – while others may suggest both outdoor and indoor play in balance is essential for the children in our charge. It is my belief that neither is right nor wrong, but simply a preference. I am sure there are many strong opinions on this, which opens a can of worms; however I believe we all have the same goals in mind – the positive, forward development of the child.

So respecting the differences in how play is implemented should be recognized.

Some questions that need answering when providing a quality childcare program may be:

What is your preferred manner of implementing your program to ensure play takes place?

What if you had no choice in the matter; how would you ensure play takes place?

What portion of your program is dedicated to play?

It can be said that play is innate; however there are those children that need a little encouragement to venture forth. So it is our job to provide the tools to ensure play takes place. This means we have to be astute in laying out the path to affirmative play. I recognize that the majority of Early Childhood Educators are very creative and have their finger on the pulse of what children want and require for developing during play. Some of us do this through music and drama, some through outdoor exploration, some through art and creative activities….. The list goes on, due to the fact that we are all essentially unique in who we are, where we live and the experiences we have had. There is no right and wrong when it comes down to the fact that children are indeed playing. They are indeed thriving and developing into the fully evolved little people we want them to be. The children are flourishing, happy and show us that what we are doing for them is fostering growth.

So why speak of play and how we implement play? Well it goes back to the fact that we know play is essential – play is implemented in many different ways. As long as we are providing an outlet for play and play is taking place on a daily basis – we respect the manner of how play is implemented, our children will benefit.

Puppet Play - in our new theater!

2012-02-21T18:11:00.000-08:00

Today we had so much fun playing with our puppets in our new puppet theater.

Selecting the cast of characters and adding a voice!

On with the show!

A great audience!

Guess what voice these guys had!

Hey who's in there?

Ta Da!

Hey where did you go?

Behind the scenes!

The fun goes on!

Puppet play and language!

Magnetize me!

2012-02-17T18:24:00.000-08:00

I need some help!
I need ideas for magnetic activities for toddlers - 18months to 3 years old. What is in your collection of great ideas?
Please share them here in this linky - you would be helping out to ensure 'Magnetic March' goes off well!

I have some resources available to help.

We have magnetic toys.

We have created magnetic toys to play with our horseshoe magnets.

We have some wand magnets.

As well as specialty toys with magnets.

Toys Tools and Treasures

OK gang start linking so I can impress my tots! :)

Karaoke Tots

2012-02-16T19:06:00.000-08:00

Today we sang some karaoke - how fun is that!

It was awesome to hear the voices of our very quiet students - come to life!

Some were a bit timid to sing but managed to share a ditty!

We had to remember this was not to be eaten! :)

Some of us were DIVAS!

Deep into song!

What a great way to encourage language - song and participation in group activities.

Not to mention bring out our wild side! LOL

Pay it forward gifts!

2012-02-15T17:12:00.000-08:00

Pay it forward gifts are ready - some have been mailed - watch your mail box. If you have not sent me your address do so now!

Comments are now CLOSED!

Here are a couple of examples of what you may get!

What's on the light box

2012-02-14T15:37:00.000-08:00

The light box is so fun!

I gave the children plastic mobile pieces to use on the light box.

They work really well and I love the shapes and colours.

I added plastic page dividers which I cut into halves.

The two items worked well together.

I wanted to note that I used those repositionable gel stickers for Valentines and they stained the surface of the table.

Our table is covered in stick tac paper so we can change it - thankfully!

Hats and more hats!

2012-02-13T18:16:00.000-08:00

Today we played with hats!

When the children came in today they found hats...

...lots of hats!

Trying them on for size!

Community helpers!

Knights in shinning armor...

...and jesters!

Hey where's your hammer?

Is this too big for me?

Who would have guess so many hats could be so much fun!

You Know You are a teacher when....

2012-02-12T10:06:00.000-08:00

The idea came from HERE!

This is so funny I had to join in!
Here is my addition.

The pinterest is HERE with other!

Valentines Bulletin Boards

2012-02-12T06:54:00.000-08:00

I forgot to show you our February/Valentines Bulletin Boards - here they are!

I had fun with my cricut machine making this one!

This is our calendar board.

We do the date, weather and attendance (name recognition).

We also sing O'Canada.

Valentines Gifts

2012-02-12T06:38:00.000-08:00

I like to celebrate the seasons and all the wonderful celebrations that go with them, because the children get so excited when they can participate in something light hearted and fun. They also love giving gifts to their parents and I love to give gifts to the kids!
It's also an excuse to get creative and have a party!

This is what the teachers are giving the kids for Valentines Day!

I created the tag for the front of the gift bag on the computer and printed them off.

Bought some Gummy Worms and Valentines baggies.

I put the worms in the baggies...

...then put them in the gift bags!

Cute eh!

This is the parents gift from the kids!

The snowy hearts which were included in 'the heart book'.

Along with this poem...

Out of a snow cloud, cold and gray,
Something dropped on St. Valentine's Day,
Whirling and twirling and soft and light,
A wee little heart all dainty and white,
And I guess the sky children were sending down,
This Valentine straight to the Moms and Dads in town.

...pasted to a red heart doily.

Then the kids made their foot print - cut it out and pasted them on

a gift bag,with a cute saying!

All set to go!

Happy Valentines Day everyone!

KREATIVE RESOURCES GIVEAWAY FOR the heart project!

2012-02-10T12:00:00.000-08:00

the heart project

Here is Kreative Resources Giveaway for this wonderful collaborative project!

Some of the items you see in this giveaway are what we used in one of our creatives for the heart project!

There are 2 new mobiles like the ones which we took apart to use as items to trace on our light box - plus 2 additional pressboard hearts and 2 cupids - a package of stickers - pencils - and a bag to put all your 'stuff'!

Open to EVERYONE!

Don't forget the other giveaways:

TO ENTER: You may want to Donate to the American Heart Association.
Our goal is to Donate at least a total of $2000 to the AHA.

You are not required to donate in order to enter the give away!
THERE IS NO LIMIT TO How many give-aways you may enter…If you have already liked all of our social media in previous entries…then please just follow the other items required to ENTER. Thanks!

TO JUST ENTER today’s Give Away (leave your email with each comment to be contacted in case you win!):

Comment on today’s Post about what you love about the AHA (tell us about someone you know that benefits from it, or just that they're doing great and to keep up the work!)

Comment that you did these for extra entries:

Check out the AHA and (if the spirit moves you) donate!
Did you buy the Heart Project e-book? Comment to let us know you did!
Share this Link On Facebook (and comment below)
Share this link on Twitter (and comment below)

**You will have 1 week to enter Each Giveaway! Therefore the closing date is the 18th of February for just our giveaway!

To make this fun for the children in my class - the winner of Kreative Resources givaway will be drawn by a student in my class - I will post a picture of them making their selection!

Donations for the e-book are still open - as well as purchasing the printed version & Donations without purchase are always welcome!

US $20.00

Order the Printed Version

Kreative Resources Blog Hop!

2012-02-09T06:21:00.000-08:00

Please join us in posting your blog link, so that others may come and follow you in the sharing experience!

This Linky will be open for one year so there is plenty of time to reach out to others.

Add your link at any time!

If you wish - please link back to us. The more the merrier!

Spread the word - tell others you are out there in the blogging world!

Steel Drum

2012-02-08T17:25:00.000-08:00

Continuing our Music and Drama month!

Today we made a steel drum! It was very loud in our school as we hammered the tin to a concave shape! It was fun though! :)

I must note that I ended up putting a towel over the tin so it would not be so loud hammering it!

We used a wooden spoon to strike it!

It sounded OK and everyone wanted a turn to play it!

It may not look quite like a real steel drum but the concept was there and we had fun!

Tin Drums

2012-02-07T17:47:00.000-08:00

Today we made tin drums!

We used large pasta tins and huge balloons!

We cut the top off the balloon and stretched the balloon over the

opening of the large tin and tapped it down with masking tape.

Then decorated with paper and ribbons!

Not bad!

The best part - playing them!

The smaller one was made with the top of the balloon we cut off!

Why not use the shaker we made as a drum too!

All together now!

Hand Made Paper Hearts

2012-02-06T19:13:00.000-08:00

Today we created hand made paper hearts.

First we tore up our scrap paper into a bowl.

As much as you want.

This was actually fun for the tots!

Some little ones needed some instruction on how to tear up paper.

A handful of paper scraps into the blender with a cup of water.

Puree!

It only takes a few seconds. Don't put in too much at one time - make this in small batches.

Dump into the bowl until you have the amount you want.

Some friends thought the blender was really loud.

Now put down a towel and some paper towel and dump on the paper pulp.

Place paper towel on top and press out some water.

Roll it all up and squeeze tight to drain excess water. You will get quite bit.

Unroll.

See what you have!

Make sure you get it all.

Press into any mold you may want to use.

Presto Our hearts!

It dried still full of colour!

What's on the shelf for Valentines Day?

2012-02-04T09:48:00.000-08:00

The collection!

Counting coins - transfer from one heart to the other.

Opening and shutting small containers / putting in and out erasers.

Also used for memory and matching skills, sorting + counting.

Counting heart gems,sorting and putting them into the heart tray.

Pouring mini erasers from one pail to the other.

I spy Valentines jar - which the kids filled.

Gems and containers on our light table.

Used for counting - matching - sorting, pouring etc.

Then top that with play dough fun - using valentines cookie cutters!

Drummin' and a Little Wind!

2012-02-02T17:42:00.000-08:00

On the second day of our music and drama month it was all about drums - with a little wind in there as well!

First we tried out the African drum.

Great beats!

Then on to bongos!

Then we added in the African hand drum.

Jammin'!

Then we needed a wind instrument!

Time for the straw whistles - HERE is a good tutorial.

Fun to play!

Now for finger drums!

Use any small container - a balloon - masking tape - scissors - paint and brush optional!

Cut the end off the balloon - stretch the balloon over the container - tape around edges a couple of times.Note the little bump - it's OK - it's the bottom part of the balloon. You will want this to play the drum - details below.

Paint if you wish.

Wait let's use those balloon bits!

Add more wind!

Make straw the same as the whistles.

Now use those extra balloon pieces and tape them on the uncut end.

These make a different whistle sound.

It's a funny sound - fun to play!

Back to our drum.

You don't tap the drum - you pluck it!

This is where that bump comes in - it makes it easier to grab hold and pluck.

Our finger drum quartet!

Who wants to Jam?

Thanks pal!

IT WAS A FUN DAY!

Oh yeah.....

.....we also played the shakers we made yesterday.....

...and belted out a tune!

Canadian idols!

Music and Drama Month

2012-02-02T04:11:00.000-08:00

We have started a music and drama month in our classroom - which may actually turn into 2 months because we have so much to do!
Yesterday we started off playing didgeridoos and making our own instruments - which we will make many of over the month.

The didgeridoo is very difficult to play - but my little buddy here was the first to get a good sound from this fun instrument.

The teachers had to try as well!

Then we made some shaker instruments with our recyclables - coloured rice and some stickers to decorate!

We used Valentines stickers because it's that time of year! :)

They were pretty as well - and fun to put on.

Shaking ....

... even drumming!

Lots of fun!

Wiggle Worm

2012-02-01T04:04:00.000-08:00

We play this game called 'Wiggle Worm' - it's a great game to play for toddlers because we get to wiggle and learn at the same time. Educational and fun! What more could you want in a game!

First I printed off shapes and numbers and a clip art of a worm on to card stock and I laminated them - then cut them to fit on the large craft sticks. I am going to add the ABC's soon - because my tots have this down cold now! I keep them in a plastic container which I simply covered in coloured paper.

To play the game I pull out one stick at a time - hold it up for all to view and the tots shout out what they see on the stick. If the worm pops up the tots get to wiggle and squiggle in their seat. Everyone giggles while skill building!

Now this is NOT my original idea - but I found it over 2 years ago so I cannot link it to anyone - if it's your idea let me know and I will link you! :) All the clips I used I simply searched on google.

Here it Is! Official opening of 'the heart project'!

2012-01-31T19:05:00.000-08:00

the heart project

e-book & print version is now open for donations/purchase

The e-book is a gift for a $5 donation - US $5

The PRINTED VERSION US $20

US $20.00

Order the Printed Version

You may also Donate without buying e-book - your support is appreciated:

Our progress!

Sponsorship information:

Craftprojectideas.com is contributing $1 for every e-book sold this month! That means in addition to your $5 donation by purchasing the The Heart e-book, Craftprojectideas.com will donate another $1 on your behalf (up to $500!)!

Hop over the Craftprojectideas.com Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/Craftprojectideas) and tell them a BIG THANK YOU for being so generous!

Giveaways are going to be happening every day from now until the 14th! There's more than one some days, so be sure to check them all out! These giveaways are from The Heart Project Bloggers who are very generously donating their projects (from The Heart Book!), or something related to their heart project.

There are also a couple special giveaways from Melissa & Doug, Fudoo Boards and CraftProjectIdeas.com! Be sure to check back each day to enter that day's giveaways!

Melissa & Doug:
Run from 2/1-2/10

Fudoo Boards:
Run from 2/1-2/10

This has been an awesome experience and I am blessed to be part of it! I hope you all love the multitude of great ideas! Thanks so much for your support!

A Special Gift - Pay It Forward!

2012-01-30T17:43:00.000-08:00

To day I got an amazing package from Karen Green over at Flights of Whimsy as a part of "Pay it Forward".

I was so excited to get the package in the mail - and when I opened it I was so thrilled! The kids will LOVE this kind gesture!

What a great selection of gifts! I can't wait to take it in to school tomorrow to share with my tots!

The topper was this adorable Roo with her flag!

My doggie fell in love with it - I have to keep it out of her reach! LOL

This idea was initiated by Sherry and Donna from Irresistible Play-Based Ideas !

Such a wonderful way to share aspects of different cultures with our children.

Now it’s Kreative Resources turn to Pay It Forward.

So if you would like to play AND are willing to pay it forward from your own blog, then here is what you do.

Leave a comment on this post stating that you want to play, and I will randomly choose three players.
You can be from anywhere in the world!!
The rules are:
• To the three participants I will send a fun package representing my beautiful city, Burlington Ontario Canada but you must be willing to Pay it Forward to three more people.
• Comments will remain open until February 14th 2012.• If you are chosen you will need to send me your postal address so that I know where to send your parcel.
• After you receive the package you will need to Pay it Forward in the same manner on your blog.

We now have our friends to play! Thanks so much for joining! I hope many more people will benefit from your participation!

the heart project

2012-01-30T03:59:00.000-08:00

Kreative Resources is very excited to share the news about something special that collective bloggers have been working on behind the scenes!

The Heart Project – In an effort to raise funds for a great cause, I have had the great privilege of collaborating with more than 70 fellow bloggers to create an e-book showcasing our craft ideas. This e-book is filled with over 100 gorgeous heart-shaped crafts, with e-links to the “how-to” on each crafter’s blog, and will be available for purchase through-out the entire month of February. The cost of the e-book is five ($5) dollars (U.S funds), with all proceeds going to the American Heart Association. Downloads to the e-books will be available on each of our blogs as of February 1, 2012.

I am thrilled to announce that a hard-copy of our book will also be available (in soft cover), for twenty ($20) dollars (U.S. funds). Five dollars from every purchase of a the hard-copy books will go to the American Heart Association. I personally can’t wait to get a hard copy for myself!!!

Jamie at Hands on : as we grow has managed this project, and she has a very personal reason for wanting to support this charity. She’s done an outstanding job of creating a quality book to bring in donations.

It really is something special. I have seen many of the pictures of the projects that fill the pages, and they are all absolutely beautiful.
Both versions of The Heart Project will be available Feb 1 – 28, so be sure to check back in for more details as February approaches! I will keep you informed from this end as well, as there will be weekly craft kit give-aways being held by many of the bloggers, as well as hard-copies of The Heart Project to be won! Be sure to stay tuned for more details!!

On February 1st - Kreative Resources will be posting a give away - a gift bag related to one of our creatives in this eBook - details to follow!

Participants:

hands on : as we grow	♥	A Little Learning for Two	♥	Among Many Blessings
Angelique Felix	♥	At Home with Ali	♥	Broken Treasures
Busy at Home	♥	Busy Kids Happy Mom	♥	Carrie Saindon's Photo Journey
Child Central Station	♥	Classified: Mom	♥	Classroom Magic
Creative with Kids	♥	Creativity My Passion	♥	Critters and Crayons
De Tout et de Rien	♥	Dilly-Dali Art	♥	Dinosaurs & Octopuses
Excited 2 Learn	♥	Hand Over the Cookies	♥	Handprint & Footprint Art
Happy Hooligans	♥	Heart Journey	♥	Imagination Soup
Jamie's Jumble	♥	Kitchen Counter Chronicles	♥	Kreative Resources
Let Kids Create	♥	Little Illuminationss	♥	Living Montessori Now
Loudness of the Lambs	♥	Love and Lollipops	♥	Mama, hocemo nesto da pravimo
Mama Pea Pod	♥	Mama Smiles	♥	MemeTales
Messy Kids	♥	Mindful Meanderings	♥	Mom to 2 Posh Lil Divas
Mommy Labs	♥	Mommy Perks	♥	Mum Paints Lives
Mummy Mummy Mum	♥	My Creative Family	♥	Nurture store
One Artsy Mama	♥	Peace Love & Rainbows	♥	Play Dr Mom
Putti Prapancha	♥	Rainbows within Reach	♥	Reading Confetti
Ready. Set. Read!	♥	Red Ted Art	♥	Sense of Wonder
Share & Remember	♥	Stacy Molter	♥	Sun Hats & Wellie Boots
Teach Preschool	♥	The Artful Child	♥	The Chocolate Muffin Tree
The Craft Barn	♥	The Educators' Spin on It	♥	The Golden Gleam
The Imagination Tree	♥	The Iowa Farmer's Wife	♥	The Joy of My Life
The Kids Fun Review	♥	The Outlaw Mom Blog	♥	The Preschool Toolbox
The Seeds Network	♥	Toddler Approved

The pages above are a sneak preview of the e-book.

Click the Donate button below to make a donation to the American Heart Association without having to purchase the book. Every little bit helps!

Instant Snow

2012-01-28T06:05:00.000-08:00

It's so fun when we get something new in the classroom that will amaze and astound us.

This week we had such a thing to play with.

Instant Snow!

Described as:
"Insta-Snow is an amazing powder that turns ordinary water into a fluffy substance that looks like real snow."

"This faux snow is so realistic that it is now being used in indoor snowboarding parks throughout the world. Insta-Snow will not melt or ice up. It comes in an 8 oz. jar. It is safe, non-toxic and can be used for parties, holiday displays, decorations, movie sets, or in a school science lab."

"Note: Do not eat this product. Keep container stored in a dark, cool and dry location. Sweep or vacuum all spills.

We got out a big bowl because we didn't know what to expect - and water to add to the Instant Snow.

We shook the powder into the bowl! Not too much at first.

Added some water and then observed.

This is what we got - more like slush. So we decided we didn't add enough powder - or we added too much water.

The children described this as slush - wet and cold!

Everyone wanted a feel and described it similarly.

However we added more powder and voila! Snow!

It was still wet feeling - it could be squeezed and manipulated without losing it snow appearance. After we investigated it for awhile we decided to leave it out to see how long it takes to turn back into it's powder form - because this can be used over and over again! We will see if this is true for us!

We did get it everywhere so vacuuming was required - but it was worth the efforts - because it did look and feel 'cool'!

Peanut Balls and Scooter Boards

2012-01-25T16:43:00.000-08:00

Peanut Balls and Scooter Boards Oh my! We had such great fun today - if I had kept these out all day we would NOT have gotten bored. In fact we had them out most of the morning and then later in the afternoon and the smiles and shrieks of laughter consumed the room. I would have to say this was a very good choice to include in my toddler program.

Find this great equipment here!

Fun to share!

How does this work? Oh we get it!

Each and every one of the toddlers could manipulate and enjoy this equipment to the fullest!

I am sure the more we use this, there will be more skill building - muscle strengthening and joy!

Peanut Balls & Scooter Boards

Snowy Hearts

2012-01-23T16:35:00.000-08:00

There has been a recipe going around to make a baking soda and cornstarch dough. I like the snowy white look, so today we made heart pendants out of it - to give as gifts at Valentines Day.

Mix 1 cup of baking soda and 1/2 cup cornstarch in a saucepan
- then add 2/3 cup warm water - bring to a boil and stir until smooth
- Remove from pan and kneed - we then added some blue glitter at this point - It made them look 'icy'.

For our project we then rolled the dough out into a 1/4 inch thick sheet and cut out our shapes with heart shaped cookie cutters.Then we poked a hole in each one - while they were wet - to string a ribbon in it later to wear as a pendant or hang as an ornament. We laid them out to dry.

We had some extra dough so we made some little ones as well.

We are going to try and glue them on top of the larger ones - or save them for another project.

We can give these with this poem:

Out of a snow cloud, cold and gray,
Something dropped on St. Valentine's Day,
Whirling and twirling and soft and light,
A wee little heart all dainty and white,
And I guess the sky children were sending down,
This Valentine straight to the Moms and Dads in town.

or this one :

Happy Valentine’s Day to My Mom & Dad

Mom & Dad, I’ve got some friends
Of each and every kind,
But a better friend than my Mother & Father
I’ll never, ever find!

I’m so happy you’re my Mom & Dad!
I love you.

Pretty aren't they

This post will be a part of "the heart project"

Purchase the e-book or print copy HERE!

Snowman - Paste and colour

2012-01-23T04:05:00.000-08:00

The tots were given 2 circles to paste along with some crayons.

Then they got creative!

Nice job!

We all had to have a smile and eyes! :)

We had been talking about snowmen, and reading books about snow, so creating snowmen from the materials supplied seemed like the obvious choice to create with the white circles.

Sometimes simple is just the ticket to fit the creative bill! Not to mention it's a great transition creative. It takes little time and breaks the time between high level activity and a quiet activity.

Puppet Theatre for under $5

2012-01-22T09:45:00.000-08:00

This is my weekend project - a puppet theatre which I created for for under $5!

I found this at the Reuse Centre for $3

I am not sure if it was actually a puppet theatre once upon a time - or a dart board frame.

I think it's a puppet theatre - 'cause that's where my mind went.

See $3 - yippy!

It needed curtains, so I got a pillow case from the dollar store.

I made 2 curtain panels out of one pillow case.

I didn't want to sew so I hemmed it with Fabric Glue!

Worked great nice and neat!

To hang the curtains I used picture wire and an eye hook.

Inside view.

Front view.

I made a sign on my cricut machine.

I also added some tickets.

So what do you think? I am more than certain the tots will love it!

Next month we are focusing on Music and Drama - this should come in handy!

Songs we like to sing!

2012-01-20T16:33:00.000-08:00

Read my article posted HERE!

I have to admit I don't always sing the songs as written - I do forget lyrics from time to time, and I like to make things up - but that doesn't mean we don't have fun. Infact we may have more fun when we let loose and sing like we don't have a care in the world.

*Jack and Jill

Jack and Jill
Went up the hill
to fetch a pail of water.
Jack fell down
and broke his crown
And Jill came tumbling after.

*Twinkle, twinkle, little star

Twinkle, twinkle, little star,
How I wonder what you are.
Up above the world so high,
like a diamond in the sky.
Twinkle, twinkle, little star,
How I wonder what you are.

*Row, row, row your boat
Row, row, row your boat
gently down the stream.
Merrily, merrily, merrily, merrily,
Life is but a dream.

*Where is Thumbkin?
Where is Thumbkin?
Where is Thumbkin?
Here I am, here I am.
How are you today?
Very well, thank you.
Go away, go away.
Where is Pointer?
Where is Pointer?
Here I am, here I am.
How are you today?
Very well, thank you.
Go away, go away.
Where is Ring Man?
Where is Ring Man?
Here I am, here I am.
How are you today?
Very well, thank you.
Go away, go away.
Where is Small Man?
Where is Small Man?
Here I am, here I am.
How are you today?
Very well, thank you.
Go away, go away.

*Five Green and Speckled Frogs

Five green and speckled frogs
Sat on a speckled log
Eating some most delicious bugs
YYYYUUUUMMMM YYYYUUUUMMMM

One jumped into the pool
Where it was nice and cool
Then there were
Four green and speckled frogs
GGGGLLLLUUUUBBBB GGGGLLLLUUUUBBBB

(Repeat in descending order.)

*Slippery Fish

Slippery fish, slippery fish, sliding through the water,
Slippery fish, slippery fish, Gulp, Gulp, Gulp!
Oh, no! It’s been eaten by an …

Octopus, octopus, squiggling in the water
Octopus, octopus, Gulp, Gulp, Gulp!
Oh, no! It’s been eaten by a …

Tuna fish, tuna fish, flashing in the water,
Tuna fish, tuna fish, Gulp, Gulp, Gulp!
Oh, no! It’s been eaten by a …

Great white shark, great white shark, lurking in the water,
Great white shark, great white shark, Gulp, Gulp, Gulp!
Oh, no! It’s been eaten by a …

Humongous whale, humongous whale, spouting in the water,
Humongous whale, humongous whale,
Gulp! … Gulp! … Gulp! … BURP!
Pardon me!

*Five little monkeys

Five little monkeys jumping on the bed,
One fell off and bumped his head.
Mama called the Doctor and the Doctor said,
"No more monkeys jumping on the bed!"

Four little monkeys jumping on the bed,
One fell off and bumped her head.
Papa called the Doctor and the Doctor said,
"No more monkeys jumping on the bed!"

Three little monkeys jumping on the bed,
One fell off and bumped his head.
Mama called the Doctor and the Doctor said,
"No more monkeys jumping on the bed!"

Two little monkeys jumping on the bed,
One fell off and bumped her head.
Papa called the Doctor and the Doctor said,
"No more monkeys jumping on the bed!"

One little monkey jumping on the bed,
He fell off and bumped his head.
Mama called the Doctor and the Doctor said,
"Put those monkeys straight to bed!"

* Humpty Dumpty

Humpty Dumpty sat on a wall.
Humpty Dumpty had a great fall.
All the king's horses and all the king's men
Couldn't put Humpty together again!

*The Itsy Bitsy Spider

The itsy, bitsy spider, climbed up the water spout.

Down came the rain and washed the spider out.

Out came the sun and dried up all the rain,

So the itsy, bitsy spider went up the spout again.

*The Wheels on the Bus

The wheels on the bus go round and round,
round and round,
round and round.
The wheels on the bus go round and round,
all through the town.    (Roll hands around each other)

The wipers on the bus go Swish, swish, swish;
Swish, swish, swish;
Swish, swish, swish.
The wipers on the bus go Swish, swish, swish,
all through the town.    ("Swish" hands in front of you like windshield wipers)

The horn on the bus goes Beep, beep, beep;
Beep, beep, beep;
Beep, beep, beep.
The horn on the bus goes Beep, beep, beep,
all through the town.    (Slap palm in front of you like honking a horn)

The doors on the bus go open and shut;
Open and shut;
Open and shut.
The doors on the bus go open and shut;
all through the town.    (Push hands back and forth in front of you)

The Driver on the bus says "Move on back,
move on back, move on back;"
The Driver on the bus says "Move on back",
all through the town.    (Point thumb over your shoulder)

The babies on the bus says "Wah, wah, wah;
Wah, wah, wah;
Wah, wah, wah".
The babies on the bus says "Wah, wah, wah",
all through the town.    (Rub fists in front of eyes)

The mommies on the bus says "Shush, shush, shush;
Shush, shush, shush;
Shush, shush, shush."
The mommies on the bus says "Shush, shush, shush"
all through the town.    (Hold index finger in front of mouth as if saying shhh)

*Five Little Ducks

Five little ducks
Went out one day
Over the hill and far away
Mother duck said
"Quack, quack, quack, quack."
But only four little ducks came back.

Four little ducks
Went out one day
Over the hill and far away
Mother duck said
"Quack, quack, quack, quack."
But only three little ducks came back.

Three little ducks
Went out one day
Over the hill and far away
Mother duck said
"Quack, quack, quack, quack."
But only two little ducks came back.

Two little ducks
Went out one day
Over the hill and far away
Mother duck said
"Quack, quack, quack, quack."
But only one little duck came back.

One little duck
Went out one day
Over the hill and far away
Mother duck said
"Quack, quack, quack, quack."
But none of the five little ducks came back.

Sad mother duck
Went out one day
Over the hill and far away
The sad mother duck said
"Quack, quack, quack."
And all of the five little ducks came back.

*Skidamarink

Skidamarink a dink a dink,
Skidamarink a doo,
I love you.
Skidamarink a dink a dink,
Skidamarink a doo,
I love you.

I love you in the morning
And in the afternoon,
I love you in the evening
And underneath the moon;
Oh, Skidamarink a dink a dink,
Skidamarink a doo,
I love you!

*Alouette

Alouette, gentille Alouette
Alouette je te plumerai
Alouette, gentille Alouette
Alouette je te plumerai
Je te plumerai la tete
Je te plumerai la tete
Et la tete, et la tete
Et la tete, et la tete
O-o-o-o-oh
Alouette, gentille Alouette
Alouette je te plumerai

Alouette, gentille Alouette
Alouette je te plumerai
Alouette, gentille Alouette
Alouette je te plumerai
Je te plumerai le nez
Je te plumerai le nez
Et le nez, et le nez
Et le nez, et le nez
O-o-o-o-oh
Alouette, gentille Alouette
Alouette je te plumerai

Alouette, gentille Alouette
Alouette je te plumerai
Alouette, gentille Alouette
Alouette je te plumerai
Je te plumerai les yeux
Je te plumerai les yeux
Et les yeux, et les yeux
Et les yeux, et les yeux
O-o-o-o-oh
Alouette, gentille Alouette
Alouette je te plumerai

Alouette, gentille Alouette
Alouette je te plumerai
Alouette, gentille Alouette
Alouette je te plumerai
Je te plumerai le cou
Je te plumerai le cou
Et le cou, et le cou
Et le cou, et le cou
O-o-o-o-oh
Alouette, gentille Alouette
Alouette je te plumerai

Alouette, gentille Alouette
Alouette je te plumerai
Alouette, gentille Alouette
Alouette je te plumerai
Je te plumerai les ailes
Je te plumerai les ailes
Et les ailes, et les ailes
Et les ailes, et les ailes
O-o-o-o-oh
Alouette, gentille Alouette
Alouette je te plumerai

Alouette, gentille Alouette
Alouette je te plumerai
Alouette, gentille Alouette
Alouette je te plumerai
Je te plumerai le dos
Je te plumerai le dos
Et le dos, et le dos
Et le dos, et le dos
O-o-o-o-oh
Alouette, gentille Alouette
Alouette je te plumerai

Alouette, gentille Alouette
Alouette je te plumerai
Alouette, gentille Alouette
Alouette je te plumerai
Je te plumerai les pattes
Je te plumerai les pattes
Et les pattes, et les pattes
Et les pattes, et les pattes
O-o-o-o-oh
Alouette, gentille Alouette
Alouette je te plumerai

Alouette, gentille Alouette
Alouette je te plumerai
Alouette, gentille Alouette
Alouette je te plumerai
Je te plumerai la queue
Je te plumerai la queue
Et la queue, et la queue
Et la queue, et la queue
O-o-o-o-oh
Alouette, gentille Alouette
Alouette je te plumerai

* Head and shoulders

Head and, shoulders, knees and toes, knees and toes
Head and, shoulders, knees and toes, knees and toes
And eyes and ears and mouth and nose
Head and, shoulders, knees and toes, knees and toes
(Repeat, getting faster each time)

Tête, épaules, genoux, et pied, genoux et pieds.

La bouche, le nez, les yeux, les oreilles.

Tête, épaules, genoux, et pieds,

Genoux, et pieds.

I Heart You!

2012-01-20T15:53:00.000-08:00

We wanted to get a head start on Valentines Day - well really it was an excuse to try out our new light box.

Oh what's that?

Discovering the light box and hearts - the invitation to play.

Let me see!

'Look you guys, HEARTS!'

We can trace them!

Concentration!

TA DA!

I purchased the hearts at a dollar store - they are decorations for Valentines day - mobiles made of hard plastic.

I simply took them apart so they could be used on the light box.

This post is a part of

Hosted by "Hands On As We Grow"

Purchase e-book or print copy HERE

On February 11th - Kreative Resources will be giving away a gift bag of goodies for your children to enjoy the tracing experience as well!

Watch for details coming soon!

TOYS, TOOLS AND TREASURES

2012-01-18T19:22:00.000-08:00

TOYS, TOOLS AND TREASURES
1244 Sable Drive
Burlington, ON
L7S 2J5

Toll-free: 1-866-940-1933

Tel: 905-631-8041 Fax: 905-631-6551
email: toystoolsandtreasures@sympatico.ca

website: www.toystoolsandtreasures.com

I would like to introduce you to a great supplier of quality toys and activities. I went to explore their place of business and walked out with all kinds of great materials for my children to explore. The kids have really enjoyed the new items I have purchased so far. I will share some of them in upcoming posts. I don't normally promote businesses, but I found their product line to be unique and of good quality. I was impressed.

Toys, Tools and Treasures is an on line shopping experience.

"Toys, Tools and Treasures is a Family Owned and operated business. We offer high-quality products that provide both fun and therapeutic benefits. We take great pride in our personal customer service! We specialize in sensory tools, activities to enhance fine and gross motor skills and equipment to help develop underlying skills and promote optimal functioning. We are constantly working to expand our product-line. We would love to hear from you if you have suggestions regarding additional items you would like us to carry."

Stop by and see what you think!

We made rubber balls!

2012-01-18T18:46:00.000-08:00

Mix one cup of white school glue with 1/8th cup of warm water mixed with approx 1 tablespoon of 'Borax' and a few drops of food colouring - your choice! Mix it quickly with spoon to start then grab hold with your hands and blend until mixture is smooth and all ingredients are spongy in consistency. Then roll into a ball shape.

Forming the rubber ball!

Then bouncing it!

Well it almost turned into a ball!

Today we had gas!

2012-01-17T17:00:00.000-08:00

Yup today we had gas and this post made us do it! I love posts that inspire! If you have one to share let me know!

First we added baking soda into a latex glove.

Then we placed it over a cup with vinegar inside and pulled up the fingers so the baking soda would fall into the cup.

It was a dud - mostly because the glove slipped off the cup as the gas was forming.

So we added more vinegar...

... and the gas started to fill the glove.

Cool!

It stayed like this for most of the day!

Collaborative Heart Project Fundraiser

2012-01-16T18:49:00.000-08:00

I am going to be a part of this great idea/fundraiser - from Hands on as We Grow.
You too can have the opportunity to participate or simply donate $5 to recieve the ebook collaboration when it is completed. All proceeds will go to the American Heart Association.
Most sites participating will also host giveaways - Kreative Resources will be posting our own giveaway in February for this project.
Here is the link for Hands on as we Grow with complete details on this event.
I will keep you posted here for the ebook release and other give aways!

Snowman melt

2012-01-16T16:54:00.000-08:00

So how long will it take for a snowman to melt? Pretty fast - especially if it's indoors! LOL

It had snowed in the morning - but it was quickly turning to rain.

We have had a weird winter. So the snow came indoors before it was all gone.

We could have gone outside but our playground turns into a muddy lake! :(

We started to build a snowman.

It sure was cooooold!

Everyone chipped in!

We used up all the snow.

Almost done!

It needed a hat!

Ta Da!!

Oh dear it started to melt!

Hey where did our snowman go?

Snowy Bulletin Board

2012-01-13T19:58:00.000-08:00

I decided to make the tots into snowmen for this bulletin board.

I tried to keep it light and bright. The photo really doesn't do it justice.

The boarder is actually very silver in colour.

Light Box

2012-01-11T03:47:00.000-08:00

I already have a light box so to speak - however it is on an upright angle so we are limited to what we can do on it.

We really like it – but there is so much more that can be explored on a flat table. However to purchase one is quite expensive. I have seen many cool light tables created by some of the great bloggers out there, but I tried to make one and I didn’t like my results – so I have now created one of my own designs.

I started with an old drawer I got from the reuse centre.

The ugly front needed to come off…

…and so did the slider! Thanks handy hubby! J

Then I marked the inside of the drawer where I wanted mini shelf brackets to go. These are going to hold up my Plexiglas.

Then hubby drilled the holes.

In went the brackets.

The first piece of Plexiglas I broke while cutting it to size! L

However a very nice man at a Plexiglas company donated a new piece! J

Clear is NOT a good choice for a light box so…. … I covered it with white tacky paper.

It worked out awesome!

Then the sides needed to be addressed – they were yucky!

Even the drill holes could be seen – and not avoided.

So I covered them with tacky paper as well! This time wood grained pattern.

I popped in a tap light for now – but there will be a stronger one in later – but the overall look is awesome! J

The entire light box cost me:

- $2 for the drawer

- $5 for the brackets

- $8 for the broken Plexiglas (next time I will just beg for free to begin with)

- $2 for tacky paper.

For $17 I got a cool light box! So what do you think?

Update: So here are the lights I settled with - they are very bright and work great. I still have to secure them in the box. They are from an Ikea light system - I got it at a reuse centre for $2. So the entire light box is still under $20.

These are 25 watt bulbs.

It has an on off switch.

It produced a lot of light!

I am NOT endorsing the company where this product is sold - but this light socket would work awesome as well - they are sold at most craft stores to go in Christmas decorations etc. They have an on and off switch as well.
Darice-Cord-With-Light-White

Didgeridoo and a drum too!

2012-01-07T16:43:00.000-08:00

So today I decided my hunt for classroom resources would lead me to some didgeridoos, and it did!

The bonus was an African drum!

Some African hand drums!

As well as pencils that resemble the drums above - they can actually be played.

I love the hand painted designs on these as well.

Here they are - the didgeridoos

Now I just have to learn how to play them!

I like the designs!

I traded my 70's record albums for all of the above! I was happy - my records will find homes where people love and desire them and my kids will have fun at school playing these!

Not to be Overlooked

2012-01-05T18:18:00.000-08:00

When I go into thrift shops - or go to garage sales etc. I go with a list of items in mind to purchase. 99% of the time I find what I am seeking. Today I wanted to get a few more instruments for my music chest. I ventured over to the bagged items and saw some broken castenets inside. Most people would pass them up - but I also love to refurbish and restore things.

They needed new elastic ties - the elastic they use is a thick fabric coated type - Hum where to get that?

Then it came to me - hair elastics are exactly the same!

I cut off the metal centres - strung them through the holes in the castanets and put a bit of glue on the ends so they wouldn't fray. They turned out perfect!

So for $1.99 I have two new sets of perfectly fine castanets.

I also found these cute mini brass cymbals - I will change the ribbon when I find a nice one.

I'm not sure how to play them - I'll have to check that out!

They were $1.99 as well.

These are about 3 inches around.

Update: I did some googling and I found out that these are cymbals used in India for folk music and dance.

How to play Manjeras

Inspired by Design

2012-01-04T18:45:00.000-08:00

I love to wander around in dollar stores - especially if it's a new one I haven't been in before. New treasures seem to surge forth! :)
This week I ventured into a dollar store that was not a chain store - so new items were to be found.

In the housewears isle I found this self adhesive paper with a great 'wet' look!

I had to buy it!

It screamed rain tube, so that's what I set out to make.

I used a tube from a roll of tinfoil - some tinfoil and rice.

Cardboard tubes from inside tinfoil or plastic wrap etc. tend to be thicker and stronger.

I love to use them over TP tubes for this toy. It's more durable.

First I took some tinfoil and twisted it up to fit the length of the tube - leaving about 3/4" at each end.

Put it inside the tube.

Cut your adhesive paper to cover the entire tube, but don't put it on yet.

Cut 2 circles to cover each end of the tube - about 3/4" wider than the opening.

Cut a few slits - 3/4" from edge to centre up to the width of your tube.

Peel off the paper backing from the adhesive paper and centre it over the opening of one end of the tube.

Fold the edges down one section at a time - they will overlap a bit.

It will look like this.

Fill tube with about 1 1/2 " of dried rice.

Don't over fill or it won't sound like rain.

Then cover up the other end of the tube and cover the entire tube with the paper you cut to size.

And here it is - a rain tube! :)

2011's Favorites!

2011-12-31T14:42:00.000-08:00

If I had to pick our readers 2011's favourite posts here on Kreative Resources I wouldn't have been able to do it - but the stats show that you all enjoyed my Texture Boards the most. If any of you made your own I would love to see your variation.

http://kreativeactivities.blogspot.com/2011/05/texture-boards.html

Then storage ideas seemed to be an important choice - we all need storage ideas for our classrooms - since space is usually at a premium.

http://kreativeactivities.blogspot.com/2011/05/storage-idea.html

Then bulletin board ideas was an attraction. I like to see what others create as well - it inspires me to keep up with creative new boards when ever possible!

http://kreativeactivities.blogspot.com/2011/11/our-winter-bulletin-board.html

http://kreativeactivities.blogspot.com/2011/12/our-christmas-gift-christmas-bulletin.html

http://kreativeactivities.blogspot.com/2011/05/bulletin-boards.html

Next came sensory activities. I love making these and the kids love playing with them!

http://kreativeactivities.blogspot.com/2011/11/sensory-christmas-bin.html

http://kreativeactivities.blogspot.com/2011/11/christmas-i-spy-jars.html

I would really love more feedback in 2012 - so that I can provide things which interest you or some inspiration for new sharing in 2012.

Teaching Essentials

2011-12-31T11:23:00.000-08:00

It's amazing how each and every year I add to my stash of essential resources for teaching. Those resources have certainly changed over the years. Especially since technology has changed. I think of all the things I have provided for the children in my charge with out technology. Not to mention the hours and hours of prep time it took to make sure I could provide all I had envisioned in my mind.
At this time in my career I have a few essential tools to help with my task of providing a full and fun program.

First I got on to a computer - I am a late bloomer - I have only been on the computer since approximately 1990 (perhaps later than that). Wow this computer thing is really cool eh?! LOL Having really good programs is important to assisting in the creation of all those ideas stashed in my brain! I have had many different publisher programs - which I adore - I couldn't live without them. Now I have a husband who is 'Mr. Computer' and he can add anything I request. Of course that means that a printer is in order because you definitely have to print off all those ideas that you find and create!
The best part about being on the computer is meeting all the other great educators through blogging - Facebook and other social networks. Those people inspire me like I have never been inspired before!

The next important thing for me is a laminator - I LOVE MY LAMINATOR!

I recently had to purchase a new one since I jammed up my older one.

That was a sad day - I wanted to cry! :( Fellow laminator addicts know what I mean!

Now I have recently purchased Cricuts - OMG my new addiction!

If you don't know what they are - they are personal die cut machines to make letters and images for bulletin boards - calendars - class projects etc. Some people use them for scrap booking!

I got mine from Kijiji - the large machine was only used once - just not the ladies cup of tea - her hubby bought it for her as a Birthday present - she's not a crafty person. The small machine I got from a young lady who updated hers to a larger machine - it is in immaculate condition. I have already used both and they work like a dream - I can't wait to put up my bulletin board and have the children make their first project! I will definitely post pictures when I get back to school in a week or so.

I am so glad I have hobbies where I make additional income - because that paid for my new toys. :)

I got the 2 machines and 4 cartridges plus a 'Jukebox' (seen below) for the price of one of the smaller machines, retail.

Pictured below is the Jukebox - which holds up to 6 cartridges.

I don't have to keep switching cartridges as I create.

Here are the cartridges which have the designs available to cut.

Each one has many choices and there are many others available.

I am just so happy I am able to have all the resources I find essential to creating the things I want to enhance my classroom and my activities!

Created Resources for a New Year

2011-12-30T11:36:00.000-08:00

I love to create resources as much as I like to seek them out at garage sales. Here are some of the ones I have been making while on the holiday break.

I made this with clip art from the web (laminated) so we could sing the Elephant song and count.

We can put it on our flannel board as I will affix Velcro to the pieces.

One Elephant went out to play
Upon a spider's web one day;
He had such enormous fun
That he called for another Elephant to come!
Two Elephants went out to play
Upon a spider's web one day;
They had such enormous fun
That they called for another Elephant to come!
Three Elephants went out to play
Upon a spider's web one day;
They had such enormous fun
That they called for another Elephant to come!
Four Elephants went out to play
Upon a spider's web one day;
They had such enormous fun
That they called for another Elephant to come!
Five Elephants went out to play
Upon a spider's web one day;
They had such enormous fun
That they all had a picnic in the sun!

This is to play a colour game - players roll the dice and select the corresponding star.

The game is over when all players can identify the colours in the game.

The stars are foam sheeting.

Counting cards - I made with 'word'. Laminated.

Students place the counters on the circles of each card as they count.

Watches for toddlers to play with, just for fun.

Cut and paste - no sewing!

I am not fond of sewing even though I know how.

Stop and Go sign to control the crazy traffic in my room!

We also have many games we can use this for - to make the stop and go visual - to eliminate the noise level - mostly mine! LOL Printed images from the web and laminated - then taped to a paint stir stick.

I'll be making a few more things I am sure - since I just got a cricut machine (for die cutting)

Old School

2011-12-30T09:45:00.000-08:00

We are going to do some old school play with things that may not be familiar to this generation of toddlers - but they are certainly familiar to this old gal.

A gyro wheel - I always loved these! Oh and those funny trapeze monkeys!

I got these at Indigo - book store.

We are going to read some old familiar stories and play with some hand made finger puppets.

These are some of our favourites already - but reading different variations seems to make them refreshing and new!

I intend on bringing out as many 'old school' toys - books and activities as possible this year. I enjoy seeing the wonder of old things through young eyes.

Speed Racers

2011-12-29T06:26:00.000-08:00

In my classroom I have a lot of boys - boys with tons of energy. No matter how much we move, they want to move some more. We even play hockey inside our classroom! Dues to this, I ended up buying mini hockey sticks with sponge balls and we took the hockey game to the gym.

We also made sure the girls got involved.

There is no lack of gross motor movement in our day. We even get up during our circle activities while we are teaching things like the ABC's, to 'shake our sillies out'. All this on top of our daily outdoor recess times.

So again - no matter how much we move, they want to move some more!

Which leads us to the new daily activity which the boys spontaneously get involved in. They race around the room as fast as they can - pushing the cars and trucks available on our toy shelf.

I get a little nervous when they do this - there have been some face planting moments - but I don't want to be a total party pooper and tell them to stop all together, so I simply ask them to slow down.

They go so fast it was even hard to take these pictures!

So they haven't really slowed down at all!

Yikes!

Ideas to extend - challenge!

2011-12-25T07:26:00.000-08:00

This is a little fun challenge!

I saw these ideas while peeking around at some interesting blogs - so now my goal will be to include them in my January activities and extend them with other fun things to do!

http://alittlelearningfortwo.blogspot.com/2010/09/moon-balloons.html

http://whimsy-girl.blogspot.com/2009/10/goofy-glasses-from-pipe-cleaners.html

http://familyfun.go.com/crafts/crafts-by-age/toddler-crafts/waterproof-puppet-theater-796098/

http://www.readingconfetti.com/2011/12/i-spy-snow-globes.html

http://kelleighratzlaff.com/life/no-sew-super-hero-cape/

http://www.craftinessisnotoptional.com/2011/03/tacky-penguin-finger-puppets.html

http://www.littleredfarm.com/2011/09/learning-about-clothes.html

Have a peek at what I am seeing and please share an idea or activity that can be an extension of these great ideas. When I have compiled a bunch of fun - I will implement them and post our experiences!

I find you all such inspirational educators with so much to share - so don't be shy - please have fun participating!

Please post your link or idea in the comment section below!

Wishes!

2011-12-24T15:08:00.000-08:00

Wishing you and yours a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year - thanks for following Kreative Resources!
We hope to share much more fun and adventure with you in 2012!

How to tame a toddler!

2011-12-22T03:47:00.000-08:00

Here is a copy of my post over at Prek and K Sharing

Who am I?

Leeanne A

I often get asked how I can deal with a room full of toddlers all day, and my response is, “With LOVE”!
I really enjoy toddlers – when they come to me they are still babies, some still on formula and in fact last year I had a little 16 month old boy who couldn’t even walk! Within a two week period I had him walking and interacting with the other children with great vigor. We are now ‘buddies’!

Success in the toddler room comes with a lot of hugs, sweat and tears, both theirs and mine! However we all pull through. J When the toddlers leave me they are little students ready to take on the world. That makes me very happy and proud!

Sometimes toddlers are extremely challenging, after all they are at the “it’s all about me stage of life”. Each child is vying for my attention for the entire time they are with me. I have learned to bounce four toddlers on my knee at one time. I can play cars with seven tots, all shooting cars down a ramp at me simultaneously. I can also put multiple toddlers to sleep at the same time; I have learned to rub backs with my feet (kidding – maybe – LOL).

All kidding aside there are little tricks to the trade when dividing my undivided attention with 15 toddlers at the same time. First on a rainy day I can whip up a mean batch of play dough and provide a multitude of tools to manipulate this squishy, much loved concoction. [Editor's note: click here for a play-dough recipe.] This keeps at least 10 of them occupied while I colour with the remainder of ‘friends’. Funny thing is though when they are finished colouring, I am still sitting at the table completing my work of art.

Second, I have learned to provide a room full of very interesting activities, which get rotated and added to on a regular basis. There is no such thing as getting bored in my classroom. Garage sales are my friend! I can get inexpensive resources to ensure there are objects to explore, that have not been explored before. If I can’t find any I create my own. Topping that, I network with other Early Childhood Educators who not only inspire me, but they ensure that I am on my best game.

Alongside these points you have to ‘believe’ in the fact that at the toddler stage of life, their brains are like sponges, and toddlers must be given credit for being far more intelligent and capable than people give them.

That is all well and good but, what about the times when I have some behavioural issues in the classroom? Well I have developed a manner of selecting when the ‘quiet voice’ is used and when the ‘serious voice’ is used. How does that work? Let’s just say you get more bees with honey than you do with vinegar. However I do admit the ‘grumpy voice’ has reared its ugly head from time to time. Hey I’m human! I have also realized that I will NEVER get Botox – facial expressions in a toddler room are gold! *smirk* :/

I could babble on with some other ‘stuff’ or jargon, but will it make sense to anyone but me? I don’t want to bore you!

So what does all this come down to? What am I saying here? Well nothing really! LOL

I just resort back to my first point – LOVE! Just love them! If you truly love the children – love your job and love the experiences you have each and every day – you will be a toddler expert.

What does any child need? LOVE! They need to feel secure – they need to know they are cared for and that they have meaning in your life! The children light up my day – I feel joy when I see them come into the classroom. We have a connection. We ‘get each other’.

One of 2011's Best New Education Blogs!

2011-12-21T17:06:00.000-08:00

I was honoured to be nominated in the edublog awards as one of the best new education blogs for 2011 - we are mentioned in this article on the Edudemic website. Don't forget to check out some of my favorite blogging sites - which I love - that are mentioned as well!

Flights of Whimsy
Exploring the Outdoor Classroom
Happy Hooligans
Learning For Life
Teaching Blog Addict

Our Toddlers Shave! :)

2011-12-20T17:48:00.000-08:00

Today we had a spontaneous experience - which was brought on by someone claiming they had a moustache! LOL I told the little lad that he was much too young for a moustache so we had to shave it off. Then some of his friends decided they would shave as well - claiming they too had moustaches.
So off to the bathroom we went with shaving cream in hand!

Lathering up!

Like this?

Some of us may have gotten carried away!

Even the girls got involved!

What?

We didn't use a razor - we simply wiped it off with paper towel but it was sooooo fun!

Deborah Stewart from Teach Preschool has a good suggestion below - use a craft stick to shave it off!

If this wasn't such an impromptu activity we may have thought of that - LOL

Hallway Decor

2011-12-20T17:39:00.000-08:00

Here are a couple of things we made to decorate our hallway outside of our classroom!

We made snowballs - with coffee filters and fake snow!

We love to glue stuff! :)

We put them over our cubbies!

Then we made a handprint wreath and hung it over our notice board!

Peppermint Play Dough Santa!

2011-12-19T16:17:00.000-08:00

We made a peppermint play dough Santa - he's cute and smells good! :)

We mixed our dough and added a ton of peppermint flavouring - it smelled sooooo gooood!

I simply mixed approx. 4 cups flour to 1 cup salt - add water to the proper consistancy and toss in the colouring and peppermint! We kept half white and the other half we made red.

Then we pressed the dough into a cool tin I found at he thrift store with Santas image - it's probably for cake decorating - I'm not sure?

After a couple of days we popped it off the tin!

It looks OK but I think when it dries a little more we will paint it and put on some glitter! :)

Everything is better with glitter!

The kids loved the colour and the smell - it was a great sensory experience!

Update: We added some glitter, wiggly eyes, and some coconut in his beard!

Do they use that stuff?

2011-12-17T19:26:00.000-08:00

There are often times when I get asked if the children actually choose to use the practical life items I place out for the children in the classroom.
Indeed they do! I think it's because they are different. They are not pre-packaged toys - they are something outside of the box. I also present the objects before independant use, so the children have an idea of how they may manipulate the objects. Not because I don't think they would come up with their own solutions - but because some kids simply need a stepping off point. Besides I think it also makes the object more important since they were presented as something special.

Here the children use the I Spy Christmas Tubes and some Christmas icecube trays with glitter pompoms & Christmas erasers. Great for fine motor practice, sorting , matching, sequencing, counting and sensory stimulation etc. The presents our magical elf 'Stanley' brought for the children to count. The puzzle the one boy is using was very difficult, but he is a really great puzzle expert! He even stumped one of our teachers - he had to show her how it went together! LOL It's really interesting to watch the children use the objects with great interest since most people would simply look at them as just stuff without a purpose.

So - do they use that stuff? YUP!

This week I added magnets with a jar of jingle bells and pipe cleaners bent into candy canes.

Fun to play with!

Open ended Christmas tree creatives?

2011-12-15T06:31:00.000-08:00

So at this time of year we do a lot of creative activities and the tots like to use gluesticks, so we made some Christmas trees!

Although this cannot really be considered open ended (in my mind) the results

were of the children's own creation.

However the set up of the activity really left no room for interpretation.

Often times we do this kind of set up for the sake of time - not always a first choice.

Parents also like to see creatives coming home where they can determine what the object is.

We simply set out the shapes - gems - glitter and glue and let the children apply their

knowledge of creativity to the materials presented.

In this activity we simply put out some triangular green shapes and red construction paper with gluesticks.

The children began to apply the glue and attach the shapes to the paper.

I was told these are Christmas tree - indeed they are!

So in both activities the end result was a 'Christmas Tree'. Can both activities be considered open ended?

Well dependent on your interpetation of open ended. There is no right or wrong result in both activities - however the set up leaves little wiggle room in the first. An open ended activity is said to be undetermined with no predetermined outcome. However there can be some flexibility and adaptability in the activity that is set out for completion. An activity that can be changed dependant on skill level, mood and duration can certainly be considered open ended.

In both activities above there was no pressure to create a Christmas tree - the kids did love the results in both instances - open ended? Yup!

I Won a Liebster Blog Award!

2011-12-13T10:28:00.000-08:00

Now I am passing on the love!

You've won an award!

I heart my bloggy friends! (Liebster Award)

The idea behind this one is to spotlight 5 up-and-coming blogs with less than 200 followers.

So here's my list:

http://mrsjacksonsclasswebsiteblog.blogspot.com/

http://bakersandastronauts.blogspot.com/

http://theeducatorsspinonit.blogspot.com/

http://www.playingwithwords365.com/

http://no1hasmorefun.blogspot.com/

TAG, you're it! Have fun sharing the LOVE!

I chose these blogs because I have found many things of interest on all of them!

I was nominated by Lori @ Cachey Moma’s Classroom - thanks so much!

Elf on the Shelf for $1

2011-12-11T14:15:00.000-08:00

OK there is no way I was going to pay $34.99 for an elf and a book! I am after all the garage sale Queen! I did have a gift certificate for the book store - but the 'Elf on the Shelf' was unavailable. Lucky for me - because on the way home I thought why not go to the thrift shop - I bet I could find an elf there I could use!
...and I did!

As I cruised the odds n' ends bags - guess what I saw?!

My heart pounded - I was so excited and $1.99 OMG what a find!

Two items in the bag = my elf is $1 - yippy!

A tad out of sorts - but nothing major that couldn't be fixed!

He even had this great little hand made needle point box!

All fixed up - what a gem!

With a little internet exploring I can put together the story well enough to share our very own Christmas Elf with the tots in my classroom! I even found a multitude of other resources to make this a really fun adventure!

Here are some links for you to have fun as well:

Magic elf printables - you will find a passport - note pad and letters!

Make-Your-Own-Elf-On-the-Shelf - fun ideas for your own elf adventure!

elfing around freestuff - Letters - gift tag - colouring sheets!

elf-on-shelf - ideas to hide your elf!

elf-on-the-shelf-name-ideas - yup - name ideas!

magic-elf-key-for-our-elf-on-shelf - magic key for your elf!

Elf on the Shelf official site - videos here to add to the tale!

Media story - Opinion regarding the use of the story here!

Well 'Our Elf' will begin visiting our classroom tomorrow - let's see how it goes! I'll report in later. :)

Update:

Here he is 'Stanley' watching over the tots!

He's on top of our calendar board.

He came with his passport...

.... and report book!

Oh and Stanley brought some presents to count! :)

The children responded well - we had a good day! :)

Added link: elf-on-shelf-freebie

I Spy Christmas Tubes

2011-12-09T18:00:00.000-08:00

I was inspired by Teach Preschools candy cane sensory tubes to make these for my classroom and they were a hit!
I didn't want anything liquid - I have some really rough and tumble boys this year - I was not going to take any chances of slick floors - so mine just have treasures to seek inside much like my Christmas I Spy Jars.
We didn't have the candy cane tubes here so I used these:

There are mini ornaments inside.

They once held horrible jelly beans - so no great loss to dump them. :)

The red bead like filler is plastic melts for stain glass creative.

The kids are having fun shaking them as well - the sound they make is like a maraca. So they are not just a visual sensory toy but a sound toy as well.

Inventive ways to count to 10

2011-12-08T19:08:00.000-08:00

I am always trying new and interesting ways for my toddlers to count to 10 - I want them to not only be able to count to 10, but I also want them to conceptually identify 10.

Today we used plastic discs and 10 cups - we put one disc into each cup and counted them outloud as the discs dropped into the cups.

We then took 10 large cups and place the smaller cups inside and counted them outloud as well.

Easy right! the kids really enjoyed both activities. :)

Our Christmas Gift & Christmas Bulletin Board

2011-12-05T16:44:00.000-08:00

I try to make sure that the parents of the children in my class get a vision of what their child has experienced in my classroom during the school year. So each Christmas and Mothers Day the families get a CD which I create from the photos we take on a daily basis. One of the reasons for this is that children cannot always communicate with their parents what has transpired throughout their day and sadly there are still parents who think we just change diapers and colour! I still get comments like, "Joey was counting to 20 the other day, I don't know where he learned that!" What the heck?!?! LOL Well once they get their CD's those comments go away! So here is what we did this year for our 'Gift'.

Here is the CD in hand stamped CD covers

The ornaments on the tree have pictures of the children on them and LOTS of glitter!

They will go home with the CD for the parents to hang on the tree.

This is for the children - Chocolates and a Christmas pencil with eraser for the kiddies to enjoy!