Red soft-sided lunch pail with an orange soda and word puzzle lunchbox notes on a wooden table
critical thinkingfamily lifelunchbox love notes

(More!) Word Puzzle Lunchbox Notes

by Teach Mama
written by Teach Mama

Make lunchtime exciting with lunchbox puzzle notes featuring clever number riddles like “7 D in a W”(seven days in a week)! These fun, brain-teasing puzzles inspire curiosity and challenge problem-solving skills. Perfect for sparking conversations, group participation and adding a unique twist to any lunchbox. They’ll be the hit of the lunchroom! Great for kids and adults alike!

Red soft-sided lunch pail with an orange soda and word puzzle lunchbox notes on a wooden table

The Engineer and I discovered pretty quickly that our kiddos liked different kinds of puzzles and riddles. That’s probably the way it is in your family too. These riddles are a little different than the play on word type riddle because these include numbers! The answer is a word, sentence or saying which includes numbers in some way. They are still word puzzles because they don’t require any math skills to figure them out.

Word Puzzle Examples

Word Puzzles printed on white card stock on a wooden table

Super fun, right?

Some of them require a little bit more thought than others but they are a whole lot of fun. I found myself pondering one or two throughout the day and when one “came to me” I nearly shouted it out … in the middle of a meeting!

How to Use These Word Puzzle Lunchbox Notes

Just print them (I like the way bright white card stock looks), cut them, and throw one in your child’s lunch each day. But what if your kiddo isn’t a lunch packer? That’s okay too. Just leave one out on the counter for a little breakfast challenge or tuck it in their backpack for whenever they have some time during the day.

Remember to add a personal touch like a heart or smiley face. Maybe an XOXO from mom. The riddles are fun but it’s also about the connection with home and knowing you’re thinking of them during the day.

Sound good? Great!

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Red soft sided lunch pail with an orange drink and brain teaser lunchbox notes on a wooden table
critical thinkingfoundationslunchbox love notes

Brain Teasers for Kids

by Teach Mama
written by Teach Mama

Boost fun and learning with riddles and brain teasers for elementary kids! These playful puzzles encourage critical thinking, creativity, and laughter, making them perfect for classrooms, family gatherings, or any time kids need a brain-boosting challenge. Riddles inspire curiosity and problem-solving skills, keeping young minds sharp and engaged.

Red soft sided lunch pail with an orange drink and brain teaser lunchbox notes on a wooden table

We’re longtime fans of brain teasers, riddles, ciphers and puzzles! On car trips, when our daughter was about five, The Engineer and I would construct elaborate word problems (about the King and Queen’s dinner parties) to keep her occupied.

She didn’t know it but she was using all four functions in some pretty complex algebraic ways. She ate it up!

Now our oldest son could not have cared less about the King and Queen’s dinner party troubles, but when we threw in the cost that was a different matter. We found he loved money puzzles! And we all love the puzzles that involve word play or riddles.

How to Use Brain Teasers

I’ve always thought a mom’s purse should be quite a bit like Mary Poppins’ carpet bag– full of wonderful things! So print out a set of brain teasers, cut them apart and store them in an envelope or baggie in your purse.

Then the next time you’re waiting at the doctor’s office or getting the oil changed or where ever your kids need a little quiet activity, you can pull out a brain teaser for them to ponder.

Just print (I like white card stock), cut out and share with your kiddos.

brain teaser lunchbox notes printed on white card stock on a wooden table

What Brain Teasers Teach

Brain Teasers teach us to read carefully, thinking about the various meanings of each word. This is a first step to the very important skill of critical thinking. They encourage us to look for clues. They teach us the joy and flexibility of our language.

They get us to slow down and really think about words. Just wait until your child finds out there are 645 different meanings for the word “run”! (I would think that fact alone is good for at least a zillion riddles!)

Do you have a favorite site or book for brain teasers? I’d love to hear it~

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Red soft side lunch pail and orange drink on a dark wood table with printed rebus word puzzle cards
critical thinkingfamily lifelunchbox love notesprintables

Rebus Puzzle Lunchbox Notes

by Teach Mama
written by Teach Mama

Transform lunchtime into a puzzle-solving adventure with Rebus riddle lunchbox notes! These playful brain teasers use a combination of words, letters and pictures as clues to a well-known word or phrase inspire critical thinking, spark joy, and make every meal a delightful experience for kids and adults alike. Perfect for adding a dash of fun to your packed lunches while boosting problem-solving skills!

Red soft side lunch pail and orange drink on a dark wood table with printed rebus word puzzle cards

As a kid my favorite part of the old Highlights for Children magazine was the Rebus story. Some of them had the word beside the picture. But I really loved the ones that didn’t because that meant there was a puzzle to solve!

Decades later when our kids were little I came across a whole book of Rebus puzzles. Our kids loved the fun visual clues to words and phrases they were already familiar with. It was like seeing them in a whole new way!

Rebus Word Puzzle Lunchbox Notes – Word Play and Word Games on the Go

So here are some imaginative Rebus puzzles that your kids can share with friends at lunch. The more working on them, the merrier.

Introducing Your Kiddos to Rebus Puzzles

Before you introduce these to your kids, it may be worthwhile to give your kids a little ‘how-to’. Our kids are so smart though, they may not even need the instructions. But since Rebuses may be new to them simple tell them to look at the way things are written, the number of times, sizes and how things are arranged to try to figure out the puzzle.

You could use one or two of the notes below as examples to show your kids how some of the puzzles work:

Print out the same number of copies as people you’re packing lunches for so that everyone gets the same note on the same day.

Two pages, totaling 16 word puzzles with an answer key. Or let your kids create their own. How fun would that be?

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Four Sums in a Row: Quick and Easy Math Game

by Teach Mama
written by Teach Mama

Get kids excited about math with Four Sums in a Row! This engaging addition math game combines practicing addition facts with strategic thinking as players race to align four sums in a row on the board when the math is changing with every move! Perfect for elementary students, this fun game builds math skills, encourages strategic moves, and keeps kids motivated to win.

White cardstock with five columns of numbers with jump rings and metal acorns for markers

It’s called ‘Four Sums in a Row’ and the goal is just that: to get four sums in a row, so kids are playing with numbers and strategizing ways of choosing numbers that will give them a big win. It’s a great little game to have on hand on road trips or when you’re in waiting rooms or restaurants.

A Math Game Simple in Concept But Still Requires a Bit of Strategy.

How to Win 4 Sums in a Row

The object is simple–two players work to get four sums in a row before the other player. Like Tic-Tac-Toe with a thinking twist!

Get Ready to Play!

  • Download and print the 4 Sums in a Row game boards (download below). I like the look of bright white card stock.
  • Two different types markers, one for each player (use Cheerios, gems from gem jar, beads, buttons, pennies–anything) or
  • Dry Erase markers if you laminated the boards
  • 2 different paper clips

How to Play Four Sums in a Row

1. Player one moves the paper clips over two numbers along the bottom row.

2. He or she then adds those numbers and puts a pawn over the sum on the board above.

3. Player two moves one paper clip to another number and leaves the other on the number Player one chose.

4. Player two puts his or her pawn on the sum of the two numbers covered by paper clips. (or marks the square with a dry erase marker)

5. Play continues back and forth until the first player gets four sums in a row!

White Cardstock, one sheet printed with five columns of numbers and another with five blank columns

Love it!

Have I mentioned how much I love laminating for longevity? With three kids, laminating things turned consumables into reusables and saved me a ton of money! An added benefit of laminating this game is that the kids can mark the square with a dry erase marker in X’s and O’s or in different colors if you don’t want to carry game pieces around.

I also added a blank grid to go along with it. Because allowing kids to use their brains and creativity to actually make their own boards is an additional way of keeping them engaged and learning. And they totally love it!

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Bedtime Stories are More Important Than You Think

by Teach Mama
written by Teach Mama

No matter whether you homeschool or have your kids in public or private school, when classes resume schedules get crazy! Anxiety, frustrations and exhaustion make life… challenging. Slowing down for bedtime stories is more important for you and your children than you ever thought.

Mother reading to daughter in bed at night

Some of our very best family memories center around reading aloud favorite books. I remember reading Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets to the kids and their reaction to the hissy voice of the basilisk. They weren’t sitting in our living room, they were at Hogwarts and they were terrified and loving it!

Why Are Bedtime Stories So Important?

Hearing GOOD Writing

When you read a book like C.S. Lewis’ The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe aloud your young kids get to enjoy excellent writing at a reading level much higher than their own. At the same time listening to fluent reading gives them a model for how reading is supposed to flow and be expressive.

Additionally our listening comprehension level is much higher than our reading levels for a long time. Now don’t get me wrong, I have nothing against reading easier books too because then they will be able to re-read them independently later.

After they hear you read it they may even want to read it to you or to younger siblings.

Talking About the Story

I’m currently reading The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe to my oldest grandson. He has an amazing vocabulary for a nine year old, but frequently there will be “English” words he isn’t familiar with. It only takes a second to say, “Oh a wardrobe is like the armoire in the front bedroom, only in this case bigger.”

Now he has a mental picture to go with the new word. When Mr Tumnus was described as melancholy he didn’t even ask. He knew by context what it was by how I was reading it.

Because we’re reading in installments a week apart, we do little recaps before we continue. In this way he gets to practice recall, talk about favorite parts and ask questions that have occurred to him during the week.

I know very few of us have kids the same age, with the same interests, who want to read the same books.

Why not take turns picking out the story to be read? It’s a good way for siblings to learn about each other in a new way and bond over new adventures from the books. Maybe drawing a new title out of a jar … whatever works best for you and your kiddos. I know you’ll figure it out.

Kids want to hang out with us. They most often think we’re pretty cool. They need to know we think they’re great too and want to spend special time with them! So that guaranteed time they have with you at night is also a super time for them to open up about school, friends, concerns, and dreams.

Bottom line is that a lot can go down during bedtime reading, so it’s way too important to give up!

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family lifeholidaysinformative writingnew year'swriting

New Year’s Interview: Fun Family Tradition

by Teach Mama
written by Teach Mama

Start a memorable New Year’s tradition by doing family interviews! Gather together to reflect on the past year’s highlights and share hopes for the future. Capture everyone’s thoughts with a free printable in a special notebook to create cherished memories and track dreams as they grow over time—a meaningful way to bond each year!

Mother and daughter writing at a table

I’m always shocked at how fast time goes by. One day we were celebrating our first New Year’s as a married couple and somehow suddenly in the blink of an eye it’s four decades later! This little activity only takes a few minutes one time each year. The other 364 days it may sit in the notebook on a shelf, but next year or 10, 20 or 40 years from now you will be so glad you took the time!

New Year’s Interview–Fun Family Tradition:

Make a special occasion of the Family Interview! Will that include a special meal before or after, a special dessert or a roaring fire and a cup of wassail (or will it be hot chocolate?) One family I know does theirs while the Rose Parade is on TV followed by brunch! And another family has a huge ice cream feast and then does their interviews on a sugar high! Whatever suits your family and makes it fun for them.

Getting Ready for the Interview

Download the printable interview form, binder cover sheet and spine then print enough for each person to have an interview sheet to fill out and whatever pens, pencils or crayons they might like to use to decorate their page.

Some kids are funny about things like that so it’s entirely up to them. After all this is going to be their interview and should reflect them. Everyone may want fill out their interview separately, but some folks work better in a group. It just depends on your family!

For young kiddos Mom and Dad may need to offer a little extra help with spelling and such. For really little kids, who are pre-writing/reading, Mom and Dad will need to do the actual writing– or at least provide a “translation” for what they write (or scribble)!

Mother, daughter and granddaughter standing in a single file

And that’s all there is to it! When everyone is finished you can either read your own or trade interviews and take turns reading them aloud. Some families video the reading part and others say they add a picture of their child to their interview for an extra reminder of the past year.

Then put the finished interview in a binder (I like these with the clear front and spine that I can slide a printable in to decorate) and wait for next year!

Printed family interview form, binder cover sheet and spine on a wooden table

Want to start a New Year’s Eve tradition and build lasting memories with Your Family?

Just throw your email in the box below and the link to download the New Year’s Eve Family Interview printable will appear in your inbox.

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Colorful New Year themed bingo playing boards and cards on a wooden table
featuredholidaysnew year's

New Year’s Eve Bingo Bonanza

by Teach Mama
written by Teach Mama

Get ready to add some festive fun to your holiday celebrations with this New Year’s Eve Bingo Bonanza game! Perfect for classroom parties, family gatherings, or just a fun at-home activity, this game is easy to set up and sure to bring holiday fun. Whether you’re planning a class party or a cozy family game night during the holidays, this free printable will be a hit!

Colorful New Year themed bingo playing boards and cards on a wooden table

Because we homeschooled, we didn’t have big class parties like in public schools. Instead, we created our own fun to celebrate the holiday season. Games like New Year’s Eve Bingo Bonanza are a quick and easy way to bring a little holiday excitement into your day!

New Year’s Eve Bingo Bonanza is Holiday Fun for Everyone!

Get Ready to Play New Year’s Eve Bingo Bonanza:

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

To play New Year’s Eve Bingo Bonanza, you’ll need a few simple supplies:

  • Free Printable New Year’s Eve Bingo Bonanza Boards (download below)
  • White Cardstock (for printing the boards and cards)
  • Scissors (to cut out the bingo cards)
  • A Container (like a mason jar or holiday-themed basket to hold the picture cards)
  • Game Markers (you can use gems, candy, or any small items)

Step 2: Prep Your Container

Add a festive touch by storing the bingo cards and markers in a fun container. A mason jar filled with crinkle paper works great, or you could reuse a small basket or holiday decoration. Keep it handy, and you can use the container year after year!

Step 3: Cut Out the Bingo Cards

Print your New Year’s Eve Bingo Bonanza boards and picture cards onto white cardstock. For durability, consider laminating the cards to protect them from spills and sticky fingers. Once printed, cut out the bingo cards and add them to your container.

Let the Game Begin!

OPTION 1 – Pass the Jar

Pass the jar around and have each player draw a card and call out the image and the letter (*T, O, A, S, or T). Players then check their boards to see if they have the image in the corresponding column. If they do, they can place a marker on that spot. Keep playing until someone fills a row and shouts “Bingo!”

OPTION 2 – Roll the Die

Create a foam die with the letters *T-O-A-S-T on five sides, and a star on the sixth side. If the star symbol comes up on a roll, that’s a “freebie,” and the player can place a marker wherever they like on their board.

OPTION 3 – Group Play

In a classroom or large group setting, designate one person to draw the cards and call out the images and letters. Players mark their boards as the game progresses. For extra fun, let the players customize their own Bingo cards with HOLIDAY-themed images before the game begins!

Make It Extra Fun!

For an added twist, try using themed markers like clear plastic gems, fancy buttons, or candy. At home, you can even use small toys or holiday-themed trinkets. And don’t forget, if you roll a “freebie” star, you can place your marker anywhere on your board that matches the picture!

Instead of shouting “Bingo!” when they have all the pictures in a row covered, have the kids shout “Happy New Year’s!” in their loudest voice!

New Year themed printable Bingo boards and cards on a wooden table

Download Your Free New Year’s Bingo Bonanza Game

The free download includes six different Bingo boards, each with a colorful winter theme. The set also includes the *T-O-A-S-T cards and picture cards needed to play the game.

For markers, you can use buttons, pennies, or fun items like candy corn. If you’re using this game for a classroom or party, enlarge the picture cards so all the players can easily see which cards are drawn.

Make sure you print enough boards for everyone, and have a couple of copies of the picture cards ready for group play. Using big cards will help everyone follow along during the game!

Get your New Year’s Bingo Bonanza fun started! Just pop your email into the box below, and the download will be sent straight to your inbox, ready to bring some Thanksgiving fun.

For More Fun in the New Year, Check Out These Great Ideas:

Happy, Happy New Year’s!

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Child stomping on an air rocket pad with the red foam rocket in flight
family funoutdoor activitiessciencescience experiments for kidsSTEM

Fun With Rockets

by Teach Mama
written by Teach Mama

Few things capture the imagination of children (or adults!) quite like launching a rocket into the sky. Rockets introduce young learners to science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) through fun, hands-on experiences. From simple air stomp rockets to more advanced water and model rockets with engines, children can engage with physics in an unforgettable way, sparking a lifelong love for learning.

Boy in a blue shirt launching a red air-powered stomp rocket

Before you and your young scientist begin shooting off rockets there’s a bit of learning about why rockets work you need to be familiar with. I’m a language arts person so I had The Engineer explain the basics to me.

How Rockets Work

Rockets operate on a fundamental principle known as Newton’s Third Law of Motion, which states: For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. In simple terms, when a force pushes something out of the back of a rocket, the rocket moves in the opposite direction (otherwise known as forward or up!) Your kids have seen this principle in basic rockets, like an inflated balloon flying across a room when they release it!

A rocket needs thrust, which propels it upward, overcoming gravity. In larger rockets like those used for space exploration, this thrust is provided by burning fuel. For kids’ rockets, thrust can come from air pressure, water, or solid rocket engines.

This can be demonstrated by having your child hold their hand out palm down with your hand under theirs, palm up. Your hand represents thrust. Your young scientist presses down because they are gravity while you push up as thrust. This is what happens when a rocket takes off! Thrust is greater than the force of gravity holding the rocket down.

As children explore rocketry, they’ll also encounter concepts like aerodynamics (how air flows around the rocket) and stability (ensuring the rocket flies straight). Think about fan shapes or streamer from bike handles. Stability can easily be experimented with using paper airplanes.

Black and white photo of Robert Goddard with an early rocket

Robert Goddard, the father of modern rocketry, with one of his early rockets.

A Brief History of Rocketry

The idea of rockets has ancient roots. The earliest known rockets were invented in China in the 13th century, where people attached gunpowder-filled tubes to arrows. Over time, the technology evolved for both military and entertainment purposes (think fireworks!).

What we think of as modern rocketry began in the early 20th century with pioneers like Robert H. Goddard, who launched the world’s first liquid-fueled rocket in 1926. Rockets would go on to power the exploration of space, leading to monumental achievements like the Apollo moon landings and today’s missions to Mars.

Today, model rocketry is an accessible way to teach children and hobbyists about space science on a smaller scale. But if you ever have the opportunity to see an actual rocket launch I highly recommend it. “Awesome” doesn’t begin to do the experience justice!

Red foam rocket on a blue stand and air hose and yellow air stomp pad

Air Stomp Rockets: Simple and Fun for Young Children

Air stomp rockets like this are a great introduction to rocketry for younger kids because they are safe, easy to use, and require no additional supplies beyond air and a little muscle power. These rockets consist of a lightweight foam or plastic rocket attached to a launch tube connected to an air bladder or stomp pad.

When a child stomps on the air bladder, compressed air rushes through the tube and propels the rocket into the sky. Stomp rockets provide an excellent way for children to explore concepts like force, pressure, and trajectory. They can experiment with how hard they stomp, the angle of launch, or the size of the air bladder to see how high the rocket will go.

Best of all, air stomp rockets are usually reusable and can be flown dozens of times, making them an economical choice for families. They are perfect for outdoor play and can be enjoyed at parks, in backyards, or at school events.

Water rocket with red plastic body, yellow nose cone and white fins

Water Rockets with Pressurized Air: Hands-On Physics in Action

Water rockets introduce children to air pressure and thrust mechanics in an exciting and wet way! These rockets are often made from empty two-liter soda bottles that are partially filled with water. The launch system adds air pressure to the bottle, and when released, the water shoots out, providing the thrust needed to launch the rocket skyward.

This type of rocket is a wonderful way to teach children about mass and propulsion, as they can experiment with how much water to use or how much air pressure to build up. Water rockets fly impressively high—sometimes over 100 feet—and provide endless opportunities for scientific discovery. Children can also get creative by adding fins, parachutes, or nose cones to their rockets to improve stability and performance.

Because of the mess involved, water rockets are best launched outdoors in an open area. It’s also essential to use a reliable launch system for safety. Parents can encourage children to hypothesize about their rocket’s flight path and test different variables, like changing the amount of water, making this activity an interactive introduction to the scientific method.

Solid fuel model rocket with white body, blue nose cone and blue fins on a red launch stand

Model Rockets with Estes-Type Engines: The Next Step in Rocketry

For older elementary-aged children ready to take rocketry to the next level, model rockets with Estes-type engines provide a thrilling challenge. These rockets use solid fuel engines that ignite and propel the rocket high into the air, often reaching altitudes of several hundred feet. Model rockets also introduce children to more advanced concepts like drag, thrust-to-weight ratios, and recovery systems (such as parachutes that help the rocket land safely).

Building a model rocket requires more preparation than stomp or water rockets. Kids typically assemble the rocket by attaching fins, installing a nose cone, and inserting the engine. Once built, they place the rocket on a launch pad and use an electrical ignition system to ignite the engine. Watching the rocket launch and coast gracefully back to Earth under its parachute is a rewarding experience that fosters excitement about physics and engineering.

Parents can find model rocket kits in various sizes and complexity levels, making them suitable for children with different abilities. The model rocket we chose came preassembled and was ready to fly with the exception of attaching the parachute.

Supervision is crucial during launches, as these rockets involve small pyrotechnic engines. If these rockets seem a little more than you’re comfortable doing with your child you might consider participating in a model rocket club where you can attend launch events (where someone else is doing the actual launching!)

There you and your children can meet other enthusiasts and learn more about the hobby.

Encouraging Lifelong Learning through Rocketry

Rockets, in all their forms, provide children with opportunities to experiment, solve problems, and make discoveries. Whether your child is stomping on an air bladder, launching a water rocket, or building a model rocket from scratch, each experience reinforces important STEM concepts and fosters critical thinking.

Rocketry is also a social activity. Launch days encourage teamwork and collaboration, as children and parents discuss designs, predict outcomes, and celebrate successful flights. Parents can enlarge the educational experience by incorporating simple lessons on space exploration, aerodynamics, and rocket history into playtime.

Model Rocket Safety: Launching with Care

And now a word about safety. Model rockets are an exciting way to explore science and engineering, but safety is essential to ensure every launch is a positive experience for you and your kiddos. Always follow the National Association of Rocketry (NAR) safety code and launch rockets in open areas, away from buildings, trees, and people.

Make sure children are closely supervised during assembly and launch, and only use manufacturer-approved engines. Keep a safe distance from the launch pad (at least 15 feet for smaller rockets) and conduct launches under calm weather conditions to prevent rockets from veering off course. Never attempt to modify engines, and wait for any misfired rockets to cool before approaching (at least 60 seconds to disconnect the battery).

With the right precautions, model rocketry becomes a fun and secure activity for kids to explore STEM concepts safely. I realize this sounds a bit scary, but really it’s all just common sense safety precautions to make sure everyone stays safe and has a great time.

Final Thoughts: Preparing for Liftoff

Exploring rockets is a journey that starts with a simple stomp rocket and can grow into a lifelong passion for science. Whether your child is intrigued by the mysteries of space or just loves watching things soar, rocketry offers a fun, engaging way to learn.

Start small with air-powered rockets, move on to water rockets for hands-on physics experiments, and eventually explore the exciting world of model rocketry with solid engines. Whichever type of rocket you choose, one thing is certain—your child will be hooked from the first launch!

With the right tools and guidance, your backyard can become the launchpad for a future scientist, engineer, or even astronaut. So, gather your supplies, step outside, and prepare for liftoff!

Child in a silver astronaut costume with a white cardboard rocket in the background

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Montage of Christmas Eve activities with a couple reading to their child in front of the fireplace, a horse-drawn sleigh, packages with North Pole stamps, cookies and carrots on a tray, scripture cake and a nativity themed scavenger hunt
christmasholidays

Christmas Eve Traditions to Start This Year

by Teach Mama
written by Teach Mama

Start magical Christmas Eve traditions your family will cherish forever with a Baker’s Dozen of creative ideas! From baking cookies, games and festive movie marathons to hay and sleigh rides and special pj’s this roundup offers fun and heartwarming ways to make Christmas Eve extra special. Create lasting memories with activities everyone will love during the holiday season!

Montage of Christmas Eve activities with a couple reading to their child in front of the fireplace, a horse-drawn sleigh, packages with North Pole stamps, cookies and carrots on a tray, scripture cake and a nativity themed scavenger hunt

Start Your Family Traditions TODAY

I LOVE a good family tradition! This is from the mom who has decorated the Christmas tree basically the same way for over thirty years! (the one time I just mentioned changing it there was a family riot!) Some traditions grow organically. Others are planned.

Some traditions take hold and some fall by the wayside as children grow older or interest wanes. Go with it as long as they are meaningful to your family. Here are a baker’s dozen ideas to get you started!

Couple reading to a child

Special Christmas Eve Pajamas

Is yours the kind of family that goes for snazzy matching monogrammed pj’s? Or folks that really love the wild and crazy ones that show everyone’s own personality? Either way, special pajamas for the most exciting night in the whole kid year are a real treat. Be sure to take pictures!

Printed Christmas story titled Oh Holy Night

Read a Special Christmas Story

Some years we read the Nativity story from the Gospel of Luke, others were The Very Best Christmas Pageant Ever or, when the kids were old enough not to be scared by the ghosts, it was Charles Dickens’ Christmas Carol. Why not have your kids take turns picking out the story? Then cuddle up together on the couch with hot chocolate and enjoy the story, each other and the most special night of the year.

Attend a Church Service

Many churches have a special Christmas Eve service. We’ve been to ones with the traditional children’s nativity plays others singing carols by candlelight and even several staged “living Nativity” plays complete with farm animals and a smiling “baby Jesus” who delighted the crowds by waving at them.

Horse-drawn sleigh in a snowy forest

Caroling and Hay Rides or Sleigh Rides

Some people are blessed to live in areas with Christmas snow where they can take a real dashing-through-the-snow sleigh ride. But for the rest of us who have never had a snowy Christmas there are often hay rides. We’ve enjoyed them with and without Christmas caroling, but I have to say the caroling does add something extra special to the experience.

Carrots and cookies on a Christmas plate and Christmas-themed tray

Making Treats for Santa and his Reindeer

Early in the day, start making special cookies to leave out for Santa. These could be your family favorites or maybe ones you only make to share with Santa. Some years at our house Santa also got hot chocolate, or milk or, a few very special times, eggnog! Remember to leave nice crunchy carrots or apple slices for his reindeer. They work hard and really appreciate the thoughtfulness!

A Birthday Cake for Baby Jesus

When the littles became aware that the real reason for Christmas was to celebrate Jesus’ birthday they thought he should have a birthday cake (and the song). And just like that a new tradition was born! Initially the cake had only one candle because over two thousand is just crazy! Eventually we settled on three candles for all His birthdays past, present and future.

Giving to the Less Fortunate

Shoebox Christmas Giving (Samaritan’s Purse), Angel Tree and Salvation Army are great programs that allow folks to bless others at Christmas. Two of our grands regaled us recently with how excited they were to have packed 1200 Shoeboxes with the people from their church! But really even one is appreciated.

Putting coins in the Salvation Army kettle lets kids make a personal contribution from their piggy banks. Angel Tree is another great way to bless those going through a rough time at Christmas.

Family Photos

Take a special holiday photo every year. It’s so much fun to go back and see how people change from year to year! We know one family who did this and realized at some point that dad had worn the same outfit for several years in a row. Now their tradition is that everyone except dad wears a new outfit in their family picture!

Boxes wrapped in white paper with red yarn ribbon and North Pole postal marks

North Pole Postage Packages

The closest thing a child may get to real mail these days is something delivered by UPS or FedEx! How exciting to receive a package under the tree addressed to them decked out in official North Pole postage stamps and franked by Santa himself!

Watch a Favorite Holiday Movie

I look forward to the new crop of Christmas movies every year, but when it comes right down to it, it’s always one of the classics we snuggle up to watch together as a family. Which are your favorites?

Printed Christmas story, star and the holy family on a wooden background

Play Games

Here are a few games to download and play while waiting for bedtime and the arrival of the big guy. Christmas Memory Master, A-Z Nativity Race and Christmas Eve Scavenger Hunt.

Scripture cake in a red foil pan on a Christmas themed tray

Scripture Cake

Whether or not you do this on Christmas Eve or just sometime during the Holidays, it’s a fun combination of treasure hunt through the Bible and cooking. And the cake is yummy.

Santa Alert Phone Tree

Figure out which friend or family member lives the furthest North (and therefore closest to the North Pole). Arrange for them to call your little ones as soon as they hear Santa’s sleigh bells so they know he’s on his way and to get busy getting to sleep! If you’re the furthest North then do this for the little ones South of you!

Santa waving from his sleigh

As our favorite man in red says, “Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!”

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Cookies and carrots on a Christmas plate all on a wooden tray with a holly and berry theme
christmascraftsholidays

Sweet Homemade Santa Cookie Tray

by Teach Mama
written by Teach Mama

Create a festive DIY Santa cookie tray that’s perfect for Christmas Eve! Transform a plain wooden tray with a little paint, Mod Podge, and a holiday napkin for a homemade touch that’ll delight the whole family and impress Santa. This sweet craft is easy, fun, and brings holiday cheer to your table!

Cookies and carrots on a Christmas plate all on a wooden tray with a holly and berry theme

We’ve left so many treats for Santa over the years. It’s no wonder he’s so fat and jolly! We started leaving a little something for the reindeer also when kiddo #3 was little. (He really enjoyed the chewed carrot nubs they left behind.) Years later Scott Calvin in The Santa Clause movie assured us the reindeer really appreciated the extra thoughtfulness. I felt so validated!

I love pretty holiday napkins! Some women buy shoes…I buy festive napkins. The problem is the napkin to guest ratio never matches exactly! As a result there are always orphaned napkins in the napkin drawer. So I’m always looking for ways to use those one or two left over napkins. I was really excited to do this project with one of our grandkiddos. He did an amazing job and I think it turned out great!

Materials Needed:

  • Plain wooden tray (available at JoAnn’s or Hobby Lobby)
  • White (or cream) acrylic paint plus any extra colors you might want for contrasting trim
  • Christmas-themed paper napkin
  • Mod Podge (matte or gloss finish)
  • Paintbrush
  • Scissors
  • Sandpaper (optional for a rustic finish)
  • Clear acrylic sealer spray (optional for extra durability)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Tray
    Lightly sand the wooden tray to smooth out any rough areas. Wipe away any dust before beginning.
  2. Paint the Base
    Apply an even coat of white acrylic paint to the entire tray, inside and out. Let it dry completely, then apply a second coat for a smooth, opaque finish.
  3. Prepare the Napkin
    Take a Christmas-themed paper napkin and separate the top printed layer (most napkins are two-three ply, so gently peel off the unprinted backing). Cut the napkin to fit the bottom of the tray.
  4. Apply Mod Podge
    Brush a thin layer of Mod Podge onto the bottom of the tray where you’ll place the napkin. Carefully lay the napkin down, smoothing out any wrinkles with your fingers. Work very gently to avoid tearing.
  5. Seal the Napkin
    Once the napkin is set in place, let it dry then brush another thin layer of Mod Podge over the top to seal it. Allow it to dry completely. Repeat with one or two more coats, letting each layer dry fully in between, for durability.
  6. Optional: Sand for a Distressed Look
    If you’d like a rustic feel, lightly sand the edges and corners of the tray once everything is dry. This gives it a charming, worn look.
  7. Optional: Painted Trim
    You may decide to add some pinstriping or other trim details (like the gold edge in the pictured tray). Add and let it dry completely before continuing to the next step.
  8. Protect Your Design
    For added protection, finish with a coat of clear acrylic sealer spray, especially if you plan to use the tray frequently. Remember this tray will not be washable.
  9. Add a Tag
    Print the Santa Tags on bright white cardstock and cut them out. Select the one you like, punch a hole in the small end and tie to a handle. Easy peasy!
  10. Add Cookies and Enjoy!
    Place your beautiful DIY tray by the fireplace or under the tree with Santa’s favorite cookies. This homemade tray will be a cherished piece for Christmas Eve for years to come!
Wooden tray with holly leaf and berry lining

Happy crafting and Merry Christmas!

Printable Santa Cookie Tray Tag Collage

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Fun Christmas Games Printables for Kids

by Teach Mama
written by Teach Mama

Get ready for some festive family fun with Christmas Printable Games for Kids. Play our Christmas-themed memory card game or rush to complete the Christmas A-Z Nativity Race or the Santa A-Z race fill-in-the-blank game printables! These activities are perfect for holiday gatherings! Enjoy quality time together while challenging memory skills and creativity. Perfect for kids and adults alike they’ll make your Christmas celebration extra merry!

We like puzzles and games and during the days leading up to Christmas it is common to see the family working on a puzzle of a snowy woodland scene or cozy Christmas cottage. We starting leaving these games out as well and found that two players would join-up for a quick game quite often.

Printable Christmas Games for Kids

Christmas Memory Master

This is similar to the old Concentration game, but with fun Christmas images. Once you’ve printed two sets of cards I recommend backing them with a second piece of cardstock or scrapbook paper before cutting them out so the image can’t be seen during the game. Print out two sets for a simple game. Print four sets for even more chances to get a match!

How to Play Christmas Memory Master

Lay the cards out face down in a grid fashion. Each player turns over two cards. If they match the player takes them out of play. If the cards don’t match they are turned back over and it’s the next player’s turn. When all the cards are claimed the player with the most card pairs wins!

We leave this game out for several days leading up to Christmas to give the kids something to do!

Printed Nativity A to Z Race with the alphabet and lines to write in in two columns on the page

Christmas A – Z Nativity Race

Print out one copy of the race for each person, set a timer and see how many blanks you can fill in before the buzzer goes off! (If you manage to think of Christmas words starting with Q, X, Y, and Z, you are a bonafide genius!) The amount of time you set will depend on the ages of the people playing.

You’ll want to allow more time for younger kiddos so they have the time they need to write their answers. Also if you are playing this with a mixed ages group, you should consider having both a youth and an adult winner. Whoever, in both categories, has filled in the most blanks when time is up wins!

Printed Satna A to Z Race with the alphabet and lines to write in in two columns on the page

Santa’s Christmas A – Z Race

But perhaps you are looking for a secular version of this fun game? This is the exact same game, but from a traditional playful Christmas point of view. Either one is sure to be a winner with your friends, co-workers or family!

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North Pole Postal Printables

by Teach Mama
written by Teach Mama

Add a touch of holiday magic to your gifts with North Pole Postal Printables! Featuring festive postage stamps, frank marks, and special delivery labels, these printables make every present feel like it was mailed straight from Santa’s workshop. Create unforgettable Christmas moments with personalized touches straight from the North Pole!

Three boxes wrapped in white paper with red yarn ties and North Pole postal stamps

North Pole Postal Printables: Add a Touch of Magic to Your Holiday Gifts

I started decorating “North Pole Special Delivery” packages when the grandkids were little to add a little something extra for them to enjoy on Christmas morning. One big problem… I couldn’t find appropriately festive oversized Christmas stamps! So I drew some. (They were alright, but not great.)

I’m really excited to offer this printable North Pole Postage set with stamps in various sizes as well as franking and special delivery marks to make your decorating much easier! There are even some blank stamps if you are feeling especially creative!

Make Every Gift Feel Like Santa’s Surprise

Imagine the excitement when kids (and adults!) receive gifts covered with North Pole stamps and official frank marks and addressed to them! Whether it’s a wrapped toy or a gift box, adding these little touches makes every present feel like it was packed and shipped by Santa and his team of elves.

Not only do these printables create a sense of fun, but they also make your holiday wrapping look extra special—like each gift was personally processed at the North Pole Post Office by Santa and his elves!

What’s Included in North Pole Postal Printables?

These printables come with everything you need to bring Santa’s mailroom to life:

  • Festive Postage Stamps – Decorate your gifts with stamps featuring reindeer, candy canes, Santa’s sleigh, and other holiday-themed designs.
  • Frank Marks – Add official “North Pole” postmarks to your gifts, showing the date they “left” Santa’s workshop.
  • Special Delivery Labels – Mark packages with “Express from the North Pole” or “Official Santa Delivery” stickers to make them even more magical.
White boxes wrapped with red yarn ribbon and North Pole postal stamps and marks

I like to wrap those special “mailed” packages in plain brown paper. To make the Special Delivery and franking stamps look like the elves themselves stamped them on the package I cut 8 1/2 x11 inch pieces of the same brown paper then simply print, cut out, and attach these decorations to your packages with glue.

The stamps really *pop* when printed on bright white paper. Or you can print them on cream or brown paper for a vintage look. Whichever you choose is great, but I do recommend matching the wrapping paper to the color printer paper you use.

This will mean you won’t have to fiddle with cutting out all the perforations around the stamps! If you just really want the bright stamps on colored wrapping paper you might try cutting them out with deckle scissors like these. LINK

Easy, Affordable, and Delightfully Festive

These printables are not only affordable (all you have to do is download and print!) but also easy to use. All you need is a printer, paper, and some scissors to get started. For an extra polished look, you could print them on sticker paper, making it easy to peel and stick them right onto your packages.

Bring the Spirit of the Season to Every Gift

North Pole Postal printables add a whimsical touch that turns any present into an experience. Whether it’s under the tree or in the mailbox, these little details will have everyone believing in the magic of Christmas.

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Bake a Scripture Cake this Christmas

by Teach Mama
written by Teach Mama

Discover the joy of baking AND Bible study with this unique Christmas Scripture Cake! This recipe doubles as a fun scavenger hunt through the Bible, where each ingredient is hidden within scripture verses. Follow the clues, decode the ingredients, and bake a delicious cake that’s rich in both flavor and meaning—perfect for celebrating the season!

Brown cake with raisins in a square red foil tin on a Christmas plate and fork with two more tins behind on a wooden table

I first came across a mention of Scripture (or Bible) cake when our kids were doing a history unit study. It sounded intriguing but there was no recipe! I started asking around (this was way before the internet). Several older folks had heard of it, but still no recipe. I finally found a recipe in a very old cookbook in a used bookstore! I have since adapted it to use Einkorn flour for health reasons, but regular all-purpose flour may, of course, be used.

Baking a Scripture Cake

With a Scripture Cake, you and your kiddos get to be detectives searching the Bible for the recipe itself! Be sure to use the King James version of the Bible to decode the recipe. Some of the more modern translations leave out the parts you need to understand the recipe! Go figure.

One year we simply couldn’t find figs at all so we substituted fig preserves. It worked fine, but you may want to adjust the liquid or add a bit more flour.

Another time the kids and I made a LOT of little loaves for our family Sunday School class and because there were folks with nut allergies those cakes had no Numbers 17:8 (almonds). Instead we substituted imitation almond extract. Be sure to use imitation almond because it doesn’t contain the protein that triggers a nut allergy response.

Making the Scripture Cake Recipe Book

This year’s Scripture Cakes will have a great little mini book you can easily print and make in minutes! Inside you’ll find the recipe and scavenger hunt activity. The mini-book also makes an adorable tag. Just follow the steps in the photo collage below to assemble your own recipe booklet:

Steps for folding and assembling the recipe booklet

I found these festive little red foil pans with lids that make it super easy to give Scripture Cakes as gifts. Check them out!

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christmasfamily fungod & goodnessholidaysindoor activitiesprintablesreading

Christmas Eve Scavenger Hunt Printable

by Teach Mama
written by Teach Mama

Looking to add extra fun and meaning to your Christmas Eve celebration? These Christmas Eve Scavenger Hunt printables are the perfect way to engage the whole family! As everyone hunts for hidden treasures, they’ll piece together the beautiful story of the Nativity, making memories while celebrating the real reason for Christmas.

Printable Christmas Story, Star and Holy Family on a wooden background

A Christmas Eve Scavenger Hunt That Brings the Nativity Story to Life

There’s nothing like gathering with family on Christmas Eve, enjoying festive games, and sharing meaningful moments. This Christmas Eve Scavenger Hunt offers the best of both worlds—fun and tradition! As players search for each object or character, they’ll uncover key elements of the Nativity story, from Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem to the birth of baby Jesus in the manger. It’s a wonderful way to blend excitement with reflection on the true meaning of the season.

How It Works

The scavenger hunt is designed to keep everyone engaged—kids and adults alike! Here’s what you can expect:

Handy Checklist – Use the checklist to guide participants through the hunt, with each discovery revealing a new part of the Christmas story.

Objects to Find – Players will search for familiar Nativity symbols like a manger, a star, a lamb, an angel, and more.

Assembling the Story – We often read the accounts in both Matthew and Luke since each tells a different part of the story. But we’ve very carefully combined the two stories in case you want to read through it all in one place.

Each element that has a scavenger piece is underlined, but there are several pieces included that aren’t actually mentioned in the story. They are all very familiar elements though. When all the pieces are found they can be used to retell the story in your child’s own words as the nativity scene is filled in with the characters.

When our daughter was about five, her retelling included a cat and the old billy goat gruff! You just never know with kids!

This activity works perfectly indoors, but you can mix it up by adding an outdoor search for a little winter adventure. Of course, I recommend laminating the pieces if you plan on using them outdoors.

One year we hid one of the manger animals (I think it was a camel) so well that we didn’t find it until we put up the tree the next Christmas. So now I suggest if you’re hiding stuff a day or two before the actual hunt you might want to print out an extra checklist to jot down where they are… just in case!

Why Families Love This Scavenger Hunt

This Christmas Eve Scavenger Hunt offers more than just fun—it helps create meaningful moments with family. Kids love the excitement of the hunt, and parents appreciate how it keeps everyone entertained while gently focusing on the message of Christmas. Plus, it’s an easy way to keep little ones busy while waiting for Santa!

Easy to Use, Easy to Enjoy

Just download, print on bright white cardstock, laminate – if you want, cut out and hide the pieces! It’s perfect for any family gathering, and you can even make it a new yearly tradition.

Celebrate Christmas Eve with joy, laughter, and meaning this year—one clue at a time!

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christmasholidayslunchbox love notes

More Holiday Fun Fact AND Joke Lunchbox Notes

by Teach Mama
written by Teach Mama

Looking to make holiday lunches extra special? Brighten your kids’ day with MORE Holiday Fun Facts and Joke Lunchbox Notes. Our printable notes are perfect for Christmas and Hanukkah, offering your kiddos some unique facts and giggles and a reminder that you are thinking of them every day!

Lunchbox notes on a wooden table next to a red lunch pail

What’s in the More Holiday Fun Fact and Joke Lunch box Printable?

If you love adding a little joy to your child’s lunch, our Holiday Fun Fact and Joke Lunchbox Notes are perfect! This year, we’ve expanded our set to include both Christmas and Hanukkah, adding even more laughs and learning. Each page features eight notes—four Christmas facts, four Hanukkah facts, and eight playful jokes to keep the holiday spirit alive throughout December.

How to use the More Holiday Fun Fact and Joke Lunchbox Notes

Our holiday notes bring variety, from corny jokes to holiday trivia. Simply print them (bright white cardstock or regular paper works great), cut them out, add a quick “love, Mom,” and you’re all set! These notes are an easy way to share fun while letting your little ones know you’re thinking about them.

Holiday Fun Fact and Joke Lunchbox Notes Printable Collage

Grab Your Own Set of More Holiday Fun Fact and Joke Lunchbox Notes

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Holiday Fun Fact Lunchbox Notes

by Teach Mama
written by Teach Mama

Make lunchtime a joyful journey this December with Holiday Fun Fact Lunchbox Notes! Each lunchbox note highlights a unique holiday tradition from different cultures, bringing a daily dose of holiday fun to your kiddo’s lunch time.

Holiday Fun Fact Lunchbox notes on a wooden table next to a red lunch pail

Holiday Fun-Fact Lunchbox Notes for Kids

These printable lunchbox notes are a simple yet delightful way to share intriguing Christmas facts from around the globe. Every day, kids can uncover fun traditions from countries like Mexico, China, and Australia, fostering a sense of curiosity and wonder. They’ll be thrilled to learn about festive foods, customs, and celebrations from places they may only dream of visiting!

What’s Inside the Lunchbox Notes Printables?

Our Christmas Around the World Lunchbox Notes offer:

  • Fascinating facts about holiday traditions across various cultures
  • Quick snippets about how Christmas is celebrated worldwide, from festive foods to unique customs
  • Fun tidbits designed to spark conversations and inspire new discoveries about global celebrations

How to Use the Lunchbox Notes

Just print, cut, and tuck these holiday notes into your child’s lunchbox for a delightful surprise. I like to use a bright white cardstock like this. These easy-to-read notes can also make perfect after-school treats alongside a cozy holiday snack!

Holiday Fun Fact Lunchbox Notes Printable Collage

Get Your Holiday Fun Fact Lunchbox Notes Printable!

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Discovery Education 3M Young Scientist Challenge

by Teach Mama
written by Teach Mama

The Discovery Education 3M Young Scientist Challenge invites middle school students to unleash their creativity and problem-solving skills. This is a premier science competition offering students the opportunity to innovate, collaborate, and compete for scholarships and the title of America’s Top Young Scientist. By tackling real-world challenges, participants can use their spark of passion for STEM and make a difference.

A man and two girls, all dressed in white lab coats, with beakers on a table

Unleashing Potential – The Discovery Education 3M Young Scientist Challenge for Middle Schoolers

For parents of middle school students, finding opportunities that match their child’s intellectual curiosity and desire for creative problem-solving can be a challenge. You may be searching for platforms where your child can stretch their abilities, collaborate with peers, and apply their unique talents in meaningful ways.

Enter the Discovery Education 3M Young Scientist Challenge—a nationally recognized competition designed to engage young innovators, like yours, in solving real-world problems through the power of science and technology and their imagination.

For more than a decade, the Young Scientist Challenge has been a leading science competition for students in grades 5 through 8. This program offers a remarkable opportunity for your child to explore their passions, develop their skills, and make a tangible impact on the world, all while competing for national recognition and scholarships.

Here’s why it’s an ideal platform for middle schoolers and how you, as a parent, can support their journey.

What is the Discovery Education 3M Young Scientist Challenge?

The Discovery Education 3M Young Scientist Challenge encourages middle school students to think like “real” scientists, tackling all sorts of global issues such as environmental sustainability, healthcare, energy efficiency, and safety.

Sponsored by Discovery Education and 3M, this competition invites students to submit a video entry showcasing an original idea or innovation that solves a specific problem in their community or beyond.

Students are encouraged to identify an everyday issue and propose an innovative, science-based solution. Whether it’s developing a new way to reduce plastic waste or inventing a more efficient energy source, the challenge taps into the creativity and critical thinking skills that students often possess.

Finalists are paired with 3M scientists as mentors, guiding them through the development process and providing insights into scientific research and innovation.

At the end of the competition, in a grand finale event, top students present their ideas and compete for the coveted title of America’s Top Young Scientist, along with a $25,000 grand prize! But it’s not just about the money (although that is amazing) students also gain invaluable experience in problem-solving, collaboration, and public speaking—skills that will benefit them throughout their academic and professional lives.

Why is This Challenge Perfect for Science Minded Students?

Among other things middle school students are often known for their curiosity, creativity, and ability to think critically about complex issues. These traits make the Discovery Education 3M Young Scientist Challenge an excellent fit. Here’s why:

  • Encouraging Innovation and Problem-Solving

Students tend to excel when they’re given the freedom to explore problems in depth and come up with creative solutions. This challenge provides just that. It encourages the students to think outside the box, push boundaries, and design innovations that address real-world problems.

By entering this competition, your child will have the chance to apply their advanced problem-solving skills in an impactful way, potentially changing the world for the better.

  • Hands-On Learning and Mentorship

One of the key benefits of the Young Scientist Challenge is its focus on hands-on learning. Participants move beyond textbook knowledge and engage in real scientific inquiry. For students who often need more stimulation and hands-on learning opportunities than traditional classrooms can easily provide, this competition offers the perfect outlet.

Additionally, the mentorship component, where finalists are paired with 3M scientists, offers a unique and exciting opportunity to learn from professionals in the field. This can be a life-changing experience for your child, providing them with exposure to real-world science, research methods, and innovation strategies.

  • Cultivating a Passion for STEM

Some kids show an early passion for subjects like math, science, and technology. However, this interest needs to be continually nurtured to flourish. The Young Scientist Challenge encourages students to dig deeply into the world of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).

It can help them develop a passion for scientific discovery and experience its potential to solve local and global challenges. This competition could be your kiddo’s first step toward a lifelong interest in STEM careers and motivate him or her to continue exploring these fields in high school and beyond.

  • Developing Soft Skills

While the competition is science-focused, it also emphasizes the development of essential soft skills that gifted students may need to refine (well anyone really). Public speaking, teamwork, and time management are all critical components in the challenge.

Throughout the process, students must explain their ideas clearly, collaborate with mentors, and present their solutions confidently. These skills are golden and will serve them well in future academic environments but also in any career they choose in the future.

How to Support Your Gifted Child’s Participation in This Challenge

As a parent, you play a crucial role in helping your child maximize the benefits of participating in the Young Scientist Challenge. Here are a few ways you can offer support:

Encourage Exploration of Ideas

Help your child brainstorm potential problems they might be interested in solving. Encourage them to think about issues they encounter in daily life or larger challenges they’ve heard about. You can also prompt them to explore news articles, documentaries, or science publications to spark inspiration. You can help guide them to focus their broad interests into a concrete project idea.

Provide Resources for Research

Once your child has settled on a problem to tackle, make sure they have access to the resources they need to research and develop their solution. That may be access to online research databases, materials for building a prototype, or even a trip to a science museum. Providing the right tools will help them bring their idea to life!

Foster a Growth Mindset

Science is all about experimentation, adjustments and repetitio. So remind your child that failure is a natural part of the learning process and not always a bad thing. Some really terrific discoveries have come about through a “failure!”

Gifted students, for example, can be perfectionists, but it’s important to encourage resilience and a growth mindset. Let them know that setbacks and revisions are common in science and that persistence is key to innovation.

Help with the Video Submission

The entry video is a really important part of the competition. Assist your child in organizing their thoughts and outlining their presentation. While the idea should be their own, you can help by offering feedback on how they present their project in a clear and engaging manner.

Lots of practice runs will help them feel more confident when the camera is actually rolling.

Celebrate the Process

Regardless of the outcome, celebrate your child’s hard work and creativity throughout the process. Participation in the Young Scientist Challenge is an achievement in itself, and the skills and knowledge they gain will be invaluable. Celebrate their curiosity, their willingness to take risks, and their drive to make a difference.

Inspiring and Challenging the Next Generation of Scientists

The Discovery Education 3M Young Scientist Challenge is more than just a competition. It’s a platform that fosters a love for science and innovation. For scientifically minded middle schoolers, it offers an absolutely fabulous opportunity to apply their talents and gain valuable new skills.

But perhaps most importantly, it can show them that they have the potential to make a real difference in the world!

As a parent, you have the unique opportunity to guide and support your child through this incredible journey. By encouraging them to participate, you’re helping them not only explore their passion for science but also unlock their potential as future leaders and problem-solvers.

So, if your child has a passion for STEM and a desire to create change, the Discovery Education 3M Young Scientist Challenge might just be the perfect stage for them to shine!

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Cyber Monday Educational Deals for Kids

by Teach Mama
written by Teach Mama

Looking for the perfect time to grab amazing deals on educational items? Cyber Monday is packed with discounts on learning tools, books, STEM kits, and more! Whether you’re shopping for kids, teens, or lifelong learners, this is your chance to stock up on brain-boosting resources without breaking the bank. Get ready to save big!

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Unlock the Best Cyber Monday Deals on Educational Items: Perfect for Creative Minds and Budding Scientists

Cyber Monday is the ultimate time to find incredible deals on educational tools and creative supplies for learners of all ages. Whether you’re shopping for a young artist, an aspiring scientist, or a curious little engineer, now’s your chance to stock up on high-quality items without draining your wallet. From crafting essentials to cutting-edge STEM kits, these deals are sure to spark imagination and learning year-round. Ready to dive in? Check out some of the top must-haves available this Cyber Monday!

STEM Kits and Scientific Tools for Future Inventors

Got a little scientist or engineer in your life? These STEM kits and scientific tools will encourage them to explore and innovate:

A boy holding a small microscope up to his eye examining a strawberry
  • Beginner Pocket Microscope – Lightweight and portable, this STEM toy is the perfect low-cost way to introduce kids to the microscopic world.
White table-top microscope with slides and accessories
  • Classroom Microscope and Slides – Dive into the microscopic world with a student-friendly microscope. It’s a fantastic way for kids to explore science hands-on, discovering the tiny wonders in everyday objects through prepared slides.
6-in-1 Electric Robot Kit Box with robotic toys in front of it
  • Robotics Kit – Robotics kits make learning about engineering and programming fun! Kids can build their own robots, explore coding, and develop problem-solving skills through hands-on challenges.
National Geographic Circuit Kit Box with electrical machines and accessories on the cover
  • National Geographic Circuit Maker Kit – This kit introduces children to the basics of electricity and circuits with engaging, interactive projects. It’s a perfect choice for young learners curious about how things work.
Yellow book cover with red and black writing. Build it Yourself Science Laboratory
  • Build it Yourself Science Laboratory – Build over 200 laboratory tools with this book first published in the 1960s. Recently updated with suggestions on where to find material and extensive safety notes. From chemistry to physics, this book is chock full of hands-on experiments. Grab a copy for your kids…or do like the engineer did and grab one for yourself!
White model rocket with a blue "Athena" lettering on the side. Blue fins and nosecone
Red Model Rocket Launcher
Bulk pack of model rocket engines

Fun, Functional, and Uniquely Educational Items

Some educational tools go beyond traditional learning materials, offering practical skills and engaging activities in new ways. These Cyber Monday deals are sure to please:

Boy standing behind table-top green game board octagonal game pieces.
  • Logic Games – Perfect for developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills, logic games challenge kids and adults alike to think outside the box. They’re a great way to make learning feel like play.
Book cover with a night sky and constellation background. The title of the book is Signs and Seasons
  • Signs and Seasons – Okay, maybe it’s not a Cyber Monday deal, but this is a great Classical Astronomy course aimed at helping the reader become an outdoor observer of the sky and to understand the cycles of the Sun, Moon and stars.
White refracting telescope on black tripod
  • Student Telescope – Inspire a love for astronomy with a telescope designed for beginners. It’s a wonderful way to explore the night sky, identify constellations, and learn more about our solar system.
Quart glass jar and lid with a wooden crank handle and plastic dasher inside the jar
  • Glass Butter Churn – Looking for something truly unique? A glass butter churn provides a delicious hands-on lesson in science, history, and cooking. Kids can experience how butter was made in the past while learning the chemistry of emulsions.

Must-Have Creative and Learning Tools to Watch for on Cyber Monday

If you’re looking for both fun and functionality, these educational items are perfect to keep children (and even adults!) engaged and excited about learning. Be sure to snag these items while they’re on sale:

Scotch Brand Laminator with pouches
  • Laminator with Film Pockets – Ideal for teachers, parents, and crafters alike, a laminator helps protect artwork, flashcards, and worksheets for long-term use. Plus, the included film pockets make it easy to get started right out of the box.
Black Paper Cutter
  • Paper Cutter – Save time (and keep lines straight!) with a paper cutter. Whether you’re working on school projects or personal crafts, it’s a must-have tool for every creative workspace.
Pink, blue, red, purple, yellow and green deckle-edged scissors
  • Deckle Edge Scissor Sets – Give projects an extra flair with these decorative scissors that create wavy or jagged edges, perfect for scrapbooking, greeting cards, and DIY crafts.
A metal box of oil pastels
  • Pastel Chalk Set & Oil Pastel Set – For budding artists, pastel sets offer vibrant colors and endless creative possibilities. Whether it’s sidewalk art with chalk or more refined drawings with oil pastels, these sets encourage kids to explore their artistic side.
Watercolor set and pad with brushes
  • Watercolor Set – Watercolors are a fantastic way to introduce young learners to painting. They’re easy to use, forgiving for beginners, and offer a beautiful medium for experimenting with color blending.
White Brother brand beginners sewing machine
  • Beginner Sewing Machine – A perfect introduction to sewing, this machine teaches essential life skills while building creativity and patience. Kids can learn to create their own simple projects, from pillowcases to custom clothing pieces.

Cyber Monday is a prime opportunity to grab these educational items at discounted prices. Whether you’re focused on art, science, or hands-on projects, there’s something for every learner on your list. Don’t miss out—these deals are sure to make learning at home or in the classroom even more exciting!

Happy shopping, and may your Cyber Monday be filled with creativity, exploration, and savings!

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talk with kids about emotions: | teachmama.com
behavior managementfamily lifeparenting

Talk with Kids About Emotions: ‘Inside Out’ Mini-Book and Card Game

by Teach Mama
written by Teach Mama

Wondering how to help your little one understand their emotions? The characters from Inside Out—Joy, Sadness, Fear, Anger, and Disgust—can be a perfect tool for explaining feelings. Here’s a fun, easy way to talk with your kids about emotions and keep the conversation going!

Mom standing behind son

If you’ve watched Inside Out, you know it’s more than just a movie—it’s a way to make emotions relatable and understandable for kids. As a parent of a young child, you might think that identifying feelings would get easier as they grow older, but it’s something we all continue to work on, even as adults.

Using the movie as a guide, you can teach your kids to recognize their emotions and talk about them in positive, healthy ways.

Using Inside Out to Help Kids Understand and Express Their Emotions

Step 1 – Watch Inside Out with Your Child

If you haven’t seen it yet, Inside Out takes place in the mind of 11-year-old Riley, where her emotions—Joy, Sadness, Fear, Anger, and Disgust—guide her through a major life change. Each emotion plays an important role, just like in real life.

Watching this movie with your child opens the door for important conversations about feelings and how they affect us.

You can say something like, “Remember how Joy helped Riley feel happy when she was playing? But sometimes Sadness showed up when things were hard. That’s normal!”

Inside Out character cards and Mini-Book

Step 2 – Download and Print the Cards

Grab the printable below to print on white cardstock and laminate if you want to make the set last. Print one set of character cards, cut them out and punch a small hole in the top left corner.

Step 3 – Create the Inside Out Mini-Book

After watching the movie, you can create a simple mini-book by using a jump ring through the hole you punched in the cards. You and your child can then use the mini-book to explore their emotions. Each page features a character from the movie, like Joy or Anger, and there’s space to add new ones. This mini-book is a fun way for kids to personalize their emotional experiences.

I added a few pages of blank faces. Here, kiddos can draw in faces of other emotions they might be feeling. Because kids have less life experience, sometimes they may not even have a word for what it is they are feeling.

I’ve included a list of emotions for just that reason. With young clients I’ve made a game out of exploring that list by each of us taking turns making a face for each emotion. Sometimes I’ll make a face and they guess what the emotion is.

The boys always like the “Constipation” face (which is really either concentration or straining, but well, you know … boys!) If you can’t think of how to draw a certain emotion, Google and Pinterest have a wealth ideas!

Print out blank faces, and let your child draw expressions for emotions not shown in the movie, like confusion or excitement. Some kids don’t always know the words for what they’re feeling, so this activity helps them visualize and name their emotions.

Inside Out Character Cards

Step 4 – Keep the Conversation Going with Fun Games

The mini-book doesn’t have to be something you pull out every day, but it’s a great tool to keep handy for when your child is feeling a bit overwhelmed. You can also print out cards featuring the Inside Out characters and turn it into a game of memory. This makes the conversation about emotions playful and light-hearted, but still effective.

When your child is feeling an emotion like Anger or Sadness, bring out the cards and say, “Who do you feel like right now? Maybe a little like Anger?” This helps them connect the feeling to a character they’re familiar with and makes talking about tough emotions a little easier.

Step 5 – Teach Kids How to Handle Their Emotions

The most important lesson you can teach your child is that no emotion is bad—it’s what we do with those emotions that matters. It’s okay to feel sad one day and happy the next. The key is learning how to express those feelings in a healthy way.

When Anger shows up, maybe you take a few deep breaths like Riley does in the movie before reacting. Talking about emotions regularly helps your child learn that they’re not alone in how they feel, and it gives them the tools to deal with those feelings in positive ways.

Emotions Are a Lifelong Conversation

Remember, talking about emotions isn’t something we outgrow—it’s a lifelong process. The cool thing is that Inside Out gives us a fun, relatable way to keep that conversation going with our kids.

So the next time your child is struggling with a big feeling, pull out the mini-book or play the card game, and keep the conversation flowing.

To grab a copy of the Talking About Emotions Printable throw your email in the box below:

More Resources for Helping Your Child Navigate Emotions:

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TeachMama is grateful to Disney for the opportunity to attend the 2015 Disney Social Media Moms Conference and for the opportunity to create this helpful tool for parents.

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Door with a fall leaf garland across the top and colored leaf taped to the door with blessing written on the leaves
holidaysthanksgiving

Thanksgiving Thankful Door – Being Grateful Everyday

by Teach Mama
written by Teach Mama

Looking for a simple way to celebrate gratitude this Thanksgiving? This easy Thanksgiving Thankful Door activity is perfect for the whole family! Help your kids reflect on what they’re thankful for and make gratitude a daily habit with this fun, creative, and heartwarming project.

Door with a fall leaf garland across the top and colored leaf taped to the door with blessing written on the leaves

The Thanksgiving Thankful Door is a great way to focus on gratitude, not just on Thanksgiving but all year round. This activity encourages the entire family to reflect on the people, things, and experiences they’re grateful for. It’s not only about acknowledging blessings but also about teaching kids the importance of appreciation and mindfulness.

Thanksgiving Thankful Door: A Fun and Easy Gratitude Activity for Families

How to Create a Thanksgiving Thankful Door

There are many ways to create your Thanksgiving Door, so feel free to get creative! The goal is to create a visual reminder of gratitude that can grow over the days or weeks leading up to Thanksgiving.

Gather Your Supplies

Talking About Gratitude

Before you start crafting, take time to talk with your kids about what they’re grateful for. Kids may need a little help getting started. These conversations will help your kiddos recognize the blessings in their lives beyond material things.

Encourage them to think about the people they appreciate, from family and friends to teachers and clergy…even the neighbors who challenge their patience!

Discuss personal qualities as well. For example, you might say, “I’m thankful for Dad’s sense of humor,” or “I’m grateful for your determination.” These conversations can also touch on events, like a special vacation or a new skill they learned, showing that gratitude goes beyond tangible items.

Don’t forget to highlight everyday blessings we often take for granted. Share stories from your own life, like how your grandmother was always thankful for hot water because she didn’t always have it, or how Grandpa was grateful for a roof over his head after growing up in a tent in the west Texas oil patch.

These examples help children see the bigger picture of gratitude. Sometimes all this gratitude can take a funny turn and that’s okay too. One young mom I know said she was most grateful for disposable diapers! Amen!

Writing Down Your Blessings

Now that you’ve talked about what your family is thankful for, it’s time to write them down! You can use seasonal notepads with sticky backs, or for a more creative option, print out fall leaves using our free fall leaf printable (download below).

Let your kids color and decorate the leaves with crayons, watercolors, or even chalk. If you have fall-colored cardstock, that can add a special touch to the activity. Encourage everyone to add their name, age, and the year to their leaf—especially if the kids are writing their own with adorable backward letters and “unique” spelling.

For younger ones, you can add a translation for clarity!

Close up of door with a fall leaf garland across the top and colored leaf taped to the door with blessing written on the leaves

Starting a Gratitude Tradition

Once your leaves are ready, it’s time to display them. You can tape them on or around your door, create a garland, or hang them from a decorative branch. One of my grandmothers even spray-painted her branch gold for extra sparkle!

After Thanksgiving, consider laminating the leaves to preserve them for future years. (I love laminating!). Each Thanksgiving, you can add more leaves, making it a cherished family tradition that reflects the growth of gratitude in your home. Seeing what everyone was grateful for last year is an added reminder going forward and is an important part of your child’s continuing emotional development.

With this simple Thanksgiving door activity, you’ll help your kids focus on gratitude, making Thanksgiving more meaningful and special. It’s a wonderful way to teach appreciation while creating lasting memories!

Here is an easy Thanksgiving activity for everyone in the family to remind us of all the things, people and experiences we are grateful for. After all, that is what the holiday is about!

Throw your email in the box below to receive your free Thanksgiving Thankful Door printable!

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