booksreading

BOGO books kids love: less than $10 each!

by Teach Mama
written by Teach Mama

It is absolutely time to start stocking up on books that kids love because right now you can score a ton of kid-faves over on Zulily for less than $10 each.

And to sweeten the deal, Penguin Random House has partnered with Save the Children to donate one book to Save the Children for EVERY, SINGLE book sold between June 24 and August 5, 2021.

You buy one, they give one. HOW awesome is that?? Nothing makes me happier than bogo books!

Save the Children will get up to 50,000 books thanks to YOU!

Here’s the skinny. . .

BOGO books kids love: less than $10 each!

Any time I can score a deal like this (some books are up to $5 off!), I will. And especially when books are going to a great cause like Save the Children, you better believe I’ll move on this deal!

Click here to look at all of the deals –> (Buy One, Give One) BOGO Books under $9.99

The more books we can get in children’s hands–anywhere in the world!–the better.

Not sure where to start? I get it. Sales like this can be overwhelming.

Here are a few of my recommendations to start:

Kids love these books for babies – age 2

Click the links below to find the specific books above:

Kids love these books for toddlers (2 – 4 yr)

Find all books for toddlers 2 – 4 years here

Click the links below to find the specific books above:

Kids love these books for kids (5 – 9 yr)

Find all books for 5 – 9 yr olds here

Click the links below to find the specific books above:

Kids love these books for preteens (10 – 12 yr)

Find all books for preteens 10 – 12 yrs old here

Click the links below to find the specific books above:

Kids love these books for young adults (13+ yr)

Find all the books for young adults 13+ years here

Click the links below to find the specific books above:

Find all of the BOGO books that kids love under $10

Take me to the BOGO Books!

fyi: Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Forever and always I recommend only products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”  For more information, please see teachmama media, llc. disclosure policy. 

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family funfamily life

fun at-home activities for bored tweens and teens

by Teach Mama
written by Teach Mama

Who isn’t looking for fun, at-home activities for their kids?

And who doesn’t want cool things to do for their bored tweens and teens?

Aren’t we all sick and tired of watching our kids play XBox, Playstation, or PC?

Am I the only one feeling defeated when I see our teenagers are raking in 4, 6, 10 hours a day on their devices?

Please tell me I’m not the only parent carrying loads of guilt when I extend Screen Time Limits one. more. time?!

Friend, it’s hard to be a parent right now. Heck, it’s hard to be a human right now.

So after much thought and deliberation, after many falls and many wrong turns, I decided to do something about this bored-tween, bored-teen, electronic-addicted world we live in. I decided to create an activity pack that kids would want to do.

Here’s the skinny. . .

Fun At-Home Activities for Bored Tweens and Teens (Really ANY Kid!)

Were you around when I ran the Smart Summer Challenge? I did it with my kids for years and years and years.

And I think I hosted the challenge here on teachmama.com for close to 8 or 9 years. YEARS.

The Smart Summer Challenge Years

My focus with the Smart Summer Challenge was always the same: to make learning a natural part of my kids’ every day–something that the kids actually want to do.

I never created full-day summertime mom-camps. I know there are plenty of places you can get that kind of thing, and I know some really great people who do that. Honestly, I love my kids and love the summer, but I didn’t want to spend all day engrossed in activities with my kids.

18 summers count teachmama.com

The Smart Summer Challenge was simple. It was all about giving kids something fun and exciting to do each day. On their own time.

That’s it. So I had a job to do: put out something cool for my kids to do.

And they had a job: find time throughout the day to work on the activity.

And the s.m.a.r.t. boost was born

I wanted to create something that kids could do any time of the year that they wanted–not just in the summer.

And I wanted something that would ‘boost’ their brains in fun and clever ways. I wanted something that kids would be excited to do and would choose to do–instead of reaching for their electronics.

So? The s.m.a.r.t. boost packs were born!

How does the s.m.a.r.t. boost work? Simple.

Each boost pack challenges YOU (the adult in charge!) to provide your kids with engaging, exciting opportunities for stem, movement, arts, reading, and thinking—that they complete on their own time.

All the activities are in the s.m.a.r.t. boost packs. I gathered everything.

All you have to do is set them out each day!

Any time throughout the day when your kids feel compelled, they complete the activity.

Everyone’s different. Some of us are more motivated in the morning. Some of us are highest energy in the afternoon or evening. Kids will explore the activity when they are able. Make sure they show you, or the adult in charge, their creations! 

Tell me more about the s.m.a.r.t. boost packs

This is the s.m.a.r.t. boost Varsity 1 & Varsity 2 versions.

The s.m.a.r.t. boost is just that–a ‘boost’ for your kids’ brains.

The idea is that the boost is something that families can put out on a table or counter every single day (or any time they need it!) for their kids, and whenever the child is moved to jump in, he does.

The s.m.a.r.t. boost Varsity 1 and s.m.a.r.t. boost Varsity 2 are each:

  • a set of specially curated and specifically designed activities;
  • absolutely perfect for long summer days, weekends, mornings, afternoons, or evenings–any time of the year!
  • geared toward kids ages 8-14+ yrs old;
  • an opportunity for kids to work at their own pace, on their own time;
  • a great reason to collaborate as a family, learning something new or creating a project together;
  • focused on ‘boosting’ kids in s.m.a.r.t. areas: stem, movement, art, reading, & thinking;
  • 10 ‘packs’ of activities, each containing a main info sheet, multiple resources, videos, & more;
  • available digitally AND pdf hardcopy: it’s on Google Slides, so you can set it up on your student’s tablet or iPad AND hardcopy–it can be printed out and be completely tech-free;
  • packed with activities that are: varied, unique, new, old, refreshed, familiar, unfamiliar, simple, involved, challenging, and easy-breezy;
  • available all year long;
  • kid-tested and teacher-approved!

The s.m.a.r.t. boost is NOT:

  • a summer ‘camp’;
  • an online babysitter;
  • a replacement for online school;
  • a random assortment of crafts, worksheets, or youtube videos;
  • a spammy, ad-filled, thrown-together mix of junk from the internet;
  • a waste of your time or money!

What’s the cost? (click images below to head to shop)

Here’s a look at s.m.a.r.t. boost Varsity 1

BUY s.m.a.r.t. boost Varsity 1 NOW!

Here’s a look at s.m.a.r.t. boost Varsity 2

BUY s.m.a.r.t. boost Varsity 2 NOW!
BUY s.m.a.r.t. boost Varsity BUNDLE NOW!

Not convinced?

Try the s.m.a.r.t. boost for FREE and see how you like it!

The s.m.a.r.t. boost FREE is EVERYTHING that the full version is, but:

  • 5 vs 10 activities;
  • only about half of the printables vs 24+ in other versions;
  • a little taste of the awesome vs the full-fledged awesome!

Give it a try–click the link above!

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booksreading

backyard adventure begins with “The Never Starting Tales”

by Teach Mama
written by Teach Mama

Backyard adventure begins with “The Never Starting Tales”.

Really, it does!

“The Never Starting Tales” may sound unusual, but these tales are simply a collection of re-interpreted fairytales that were created to inspire families to spend more time adventure-seeking in their own back yards.

These stories explore what might have happened if a character never stepped outdoors to actually begin his or her adventure? What if a character instead stayed inside, glued to that screen?

Why? Research shows that American kids are spending 50% less time outdoors than the previous generation, so the makers of OFF!® are on a mission to promote getting kids and families outdoors by becoming a Champion of Outdoor Play.

And honestly? I love these “re-interpreted” tales. And I love this whole campaign.

I love it as an educator, but I also love it as a parent.

Backyard Adventure Begins with “The Never Starting Tales”

Here are five reasons why I’m totally here for “The Never Starting Tales”:

1.) “The Never Starting Tales” get kids to really think about their screen-time choices.

We all want our kids to make smart choices when it comes to screen-time, but it’s not always easy.

Flashing screens, power-ups, online-celebrities, and the lure of the immediate next episode are the siren song for children today. When given the option, what do most children choose: the screen or time in the backyard?

Usually, the screen wins out.

collage of images from "The Never Starting Tales"

“The Never Starting Tales” really get readers thinking about whether they want to simply stare at a screen all day long, passively consuming content, or whether they want to head out to their backyard for a little adventure and possibly change the world.

We, as parents, can—and should— set limits on children’s screen-time, but eventually our kids will be on their own. It’s imperative that they are able to responsibly manage their technology choices now so that they can do so as teens and young adults.

2.) “The Never Starting Tales” are really well-written and illustrated.

Most of the six tales are most likely all familiar to children, and the familiarity will help them to better appreciate the “re-imagined” story.

Here are the stories included:

  • Cinderella
  • Hercules
  • Jack and the Bean Stalk
  • Little Red Riding Hood
  • Peter & Wendy
  • 3 Little Pigs

Each story is available in downloadable eBook or audiobook, and two of the stories have a video format.

The stories are written and illustrated in such a way that readers will really be engaged.

For example, the characters each battle their own “screen demons” which are cleverly written:

  • Cinderella would rather stay home and watch Fairy Street on the “magical picture mirror” than go to the ball
  • Young Hercules will only stay inside and play games on his stone tablet instead of seeking adventure outdoors
  • Jack doesn’t want to go to town to help his mother because he is too busy playing his “magical game”
  • Little Red Riding Hood stays inside all day and watches “Project Hood”
  • Wendy Darling watches her Ye Old Telly videos instead of going to Neverland for adventure
  • Little Pig refuses to go outside and instead stays to play with his “Game Boar” all day long

The illustrations are full-page, bright, and engaging.

hercules page

Know that the idea here is that the story is the important piece, not necessarily the child decoding the words on the page. For emerging readers, decoding the text may be difficult because the font size varies as does the placement on the page.

But visually, these are very well done.

3.) “The Never Starting Tales” get kids to think critically.

Now, more than ever, children need to really think about how the choices they make will effect their future. Not only when it comes to screen-time choices but in other areas as well.

I love that “The Never Starting Tales” includes some really awesome STEM and LA lesson plans as well.

language arts worksheets for seriew

These lessons include:

  • writing persuasively about the best superpower
  • thinking about what adults might do in Neverland
  • analyzing the materials used to build a shelter
  • writing directions around your backyard
stem worksheets for series

The printable worksheets are engaging and connect to what most students are doing or have done in school. That way, we’re setting our kids up for success!

4.) “The Never Starting Tales” encourage families to spend time in the backyard.

All of the tales involve getting kids out in the backyard, playing and using their imaginations. I love that.

child climbing tree

And even some of the lessons include activity extensions that get kids outdoors, like;

  • writing and performing a backyard play
  • creating a “backyard bucket list”
  • drawing a backyard map
  • backyard weather observations
  • planting and observing beans
  • recording bean plant growth

In “Peter and Wendy”, the idea is that Wendy thinks she is “too old” to go out and play, but by staying inside, she misses out on all the Neverland fun.

I love this message because so often, our kids think that backyard play is just for babies. It’s certainly not.

Kids of any age can get out back and have some fun!

5.) “The Never Starting Tales” is an easy share for teachers and parents.

Teachers can very easily share “The Never Starting Tales” with students for use in online lessons or with families to use at home.

All they need to do is share the link, found here: “The Never Starting Tales”

There are no apps to download, no programs to install. It’s simply a link to all of the books and resources.

The resources are perfect for at-home learning because they include three important lesson components:

  • First: read the story
  • Next: specific instructions or directions for an activity
  • Challenge: an extension for those who want or need more learning on the topic

That’s why, no matter the child’s age, the “Never Starting Tales” should be read by students, used in instruction, and shared with families.

Get connected with the makers of OFF!®:

  • On Instagram: @OFFoutdoors
  • On Facebook: @OFF
  • On Pinterest: @OFFrepellent
  • On Twitter: @OFFoutdoors
  • Official site: NeverStartingTales.com
  • Lesson Plans: link to lesson plans

Who will you share these resources with?

I’d love to know!

fyi: This post was written as part of a partnership between WeAreTeachers and the makers of OFF!®, but as always, my opinions are all my own, influenced only by my experience as a parent and educator.

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fun dip valentines | teachmama.com how to
holidaysvalentine's day

fun dip valentines

by Teach Mama
written by Teach Mama

Judge me if you will, but I have finally given in to the pressure of Owen and Cora.

I’ve held up for quite a while, though, and for that I’m proud.

Every, single year when I bragged about creating fun, super-cool candy-free Valentines for the kids to make for their classmates, they sighed.

Puh-leaaaase, Mom. We just want to give our friends candy Valentines. That’s all kids want.

Can we just get the Valentines from the store that everyone loves? The ones that have a lollipop or Nerds in them?

fun dip valentines | teachmama.com how to

And every, single year, I’ve proudly said, Candy in Valentines!? NO way, no how. No kid needs more sugar in his life.

But something about the way this year has been going, something about this year being Owen’s last year (gasp!) in elementary school, something about the look on his little face when he told me he just wanted to do Fun Dip Valentines, I caved.

fun dip valentines | teachmama.comSo here they are, my friend: Fun Dip Valentines.

Super-easy. Glue-free.

In all their glorious sweet and empty calories.

Complete with the infamous white stick o’ sugar that kids love to eat at the end.

For all parents to tsk and roll their eyes when they see them.

I don’t care.

Life is too short.

Here’s the skinny. . .

Fun Dip Valentines:

Here’s what you need to make these babies.
fun dip valentines | teachmama.com
fun dip valentines | teachmama.com

Order them on Amazon Prime, and they’ll arrive at your doorstep in no time.

If you want the printable for the labels, sign up below, and it’ll end up in your inbox in a minute:

Then gather your supplies, and you’ll be finished with your Valentines in no time.

I know you’re busy. Really, I do.

Here’s how to make the Fun Dip Valentines:

  1. Print out the Valentine’s Day labels.
  2. Cut and fold the paper according to the directions below and place the paper onto the corner of the Fun Dip.
  3. Have your child sign the labels.
  4. Stick ’em on the Fun Dip!

fun dip valentines | teachmama.com how to

One thing I won’t cave on is having my kids write their Valentines out to a classmate and sign their own names.

It’s a no-brainer for me.

Kids are writing a card to a friend. The least they can do is write the name of that person, right?

fun dip valentines | teachmama.com

And you better believe that they should sign their own names.

No printing the names of your kids, parents! Put your kids to work! Pen to paper. First name is fine for the little guys, but first and last name for the bigger guys.

If they complain about signing their name 25 times, so what?

fun dip valentines | teachmama.com

fun dip valentines | teachmama.com

fun dip valentines | teachmama.com

So Owen and Cora are happy with these. They’re totally thrilled.

They feel like they hit the lottery.

And honestly, that’s fine with me.

Since Owen’s in fifth grade now, this will be his last Valentine’s card exchange in school. I’m game for him going out big.

If you make these, let me know what you think!

[adthrive-in-post-video-player video-id=”J4q2OSiQ” upload-date=”2020-02-01T21:53:45.000Z” name=”fun_dip_valentines” description=”Something about the way this year has been going, something about this year being Owen’s last year (gasp!) in elementary school, something about the look on his little face when he told me he just wanted to do Fun Dip Valentines, I caved.” player-type=”default” override-embed=”default”]And if you want other Valentines ideas, check these out:

Want a few more fun Valentine’s Day ideas? Check out: 

how to throw a rockstar valentine's day party teachmama.com 2

valentine's day class party ideas, 2.0 | teachmama.com

minute to win it class party | teachmama.com

valentines-day-class-party-ideas-teachmama.com_

fyi: Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Forever and always I recommend only products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”  For more information, please see teachmama media, llc. disclosure policy. 

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the polar express night: a holiday family tradition
christmasfeaturedholidays

the polar express night: a holiday family tradition

by Teach Mama
written by Teach Mama

The Polar Express is more than a book for some people. It’s a holiday family tradition that has become an eagerly-anticipated December event!

The following guest post is written by Karen Blake in 2013, but it’s one of my most popular holiday posts.

Karen is a teacher, mom of three, and aunt of many.  She’s a lover of traditions and is quite honestly one of the most creative and crafty friends I have.

bell on christmas tree——————————

Traditions are my favorite.

And Christmas traditions are the absolute BEST!

My husband, Doug, and I have  a number of fun traditions with our three little ones, Keegan (4 years old), Brigid (2) and Declan (10 months), but one of my all-time favorite traditions was started way before my little family of five was created.

That tradition is Polar Express Night, or as my nieces and nephews like to call it, P.E.N.  And this holiday tradition was put into place way before the movie came to the big screen!

Polar Express Night–A Holiday Family Tradition:

Here’s a little bit of history on how this night came about.  I’ll try my best to make it brief, but I want you to see how this fun family event has evolved.

I went to college to become a teacher.  It was in my children’s literature class, that I discovered Chris Van Allsburg’s  book, The Polar Express.

polar express book

I fell in love with this story and it was on that day that I knew I would do something special with my students once I graduated and had my very own classroom.

Well, that dream came true.  Every single year, I would read The Polar Express to my students.

The students would bring blankets and sit on the floor, and I would hand out hot chocolate and cookies and then read the story.  At the end, I would give each child a bell. I called each student separately and as I put the bell around their neck, I would say to them:

polar express quote: teachmama.com

I always teared up when I did this, too, and I was sure my fifth graders thought I was a nut!

This classroom tradition was special to me, but it wasn’t until former students would come back to school to visit during the holidays, wearing their bells and telling me how they will never forget our Polar Express Day, that made me realize what that message really meant to them.

So, because of this, I started a Polar Express Night with my nieces and nephews (who were, and still are, the world to me!).

How Polar Express Night (P.E.N.) began:

When I started P.E.N, there were seven nieces and nephews.  This was 12 years ago.  Since then, we have gained two more nephews, one more niece and my three babies.  I was single and living on my own in my small townhouse when I invited my 7 nieces and nephews (ranging from age 2-9) over for a special story.

woman with santa hat on and many kids around her

They were so cute and little and so very excited.  I did exactly what I had been doing in my classroom.

We read the story, drank hot cocoa (with lots and lots of marshmallows and whipped cream, of course) and cookies and they each received their bell.  Those were the simple days.

Oh my, how P.E.N has grown! 

My 2nd year, I decided to have them all spend the night.  It was just the best!  We all got in our jammies, ate pizza and went on with the tradition we started the year before.  I couldn’t give them bells again, so they all received a special holiday mug from me.

boy putting chocolate on hot cocoa

children holding hot cocoa and watching tv

The whole night and the gifts just got bigger and bigger as the years went on!  This is why still today, I hold P.E.N– and even the niece and nephew that are in college can’t wait for this night.

Each P.E.N is unique and special. 

I wanted each P.E.N. to be unique and special, so in addition to the book, we would have an activity.

But of course, each year had to be different.

girl and woman in santa hat holding hot cocoa

Here are some of our yearly P.E.N activities:

The year that new traditions started.

The year that The Polar Express movie came out on DVD and that really helped with “activity time”!  That’s when new traditions started.

We now start with the book and then we put the movie on and pop the popcorn (everyone has a job: marshmallow person, chocolate shaver, pour the packet of hot cocoa helper, whipped cream squirter, stirrer, server, etc).

polar express page in book

We don’t drink our hot chocolate or eat our cookies until that scene of the movie comes on!  Honestly, we start the movie, hit pause when that specific train scene comes on and then we all grab our cup of yumminess and handful of cookies and we sing along to the Hot Chocolate song.

And yes, the kids have aged and they are no longer ages 2-7, they are now 12 years older and still singing and having fun.

So, for the past several years, the Polar Express Night plan has been:

  1. eat pizza,
  2. read the book,
  3. watch the movie (with all of the treats),
  4. do an activity.

Some of the Polar Express activities have been:

P.E.N has a new home and continues to grow.

In 2007, I was newly married and in my new house.  I’m not sure my husband knew what he was getting into!  I was now out of my small townhouse and in my new home, which meant more room!

family sitting on steps in home

Thank goodness, because everyone was bigger and this gave P.E.N a new level of excitement.  Aunt Karen had more space to run around and we didn’t have to sleep on top of each other.

Each year that we gained a new niece or nephew, it too brought a new level of excitement.  The older kids were excited to share this special night with their new cousin.  Most of the kids didn’t start the sleepover part until they were 4 or older, but we never let them think they were missing out on anything.  They stayed until the movie ended and we just pretended it was bedtime after that!

And when Karen’s babies arrived?

I couldn’t wait to have my own children and have them be a part P.E.N too, but when my first child was due two months before Christmas I just didn’t know what I was going to do.  Do I have Polar Express Night with a two-month-old?

Silly question, Karen, of course you do!  What would Christmas be without it?

So, when you are the aunt of 9 nieces of nephews and have your newborn little son, you have Polar Express Night and you have a blast.  And when you have 10 nieces and nephews, a 2 year old and a 4 month old SUPER colicky baby girl, you still have Polar Express Night, because again, what would Christmas be without it?

And then when you have a 3 year old, 17 month old, and you’re 8 months pregnant, you STILL have P.E.N, because what would Christmas be without it?!

No regrets.  None.  I would be sad if I didn’t have those memories.  Who needs sleep anyway??!!

Polar Express Night is everyone’s favorite.

So, now we have a total of 13 beautiful people that look forward to this tradition.  My youngest, Declan, will experience his first this year, and it will be memorable for all.  Every niece and nephew finds the excitement in introducing this tradition to their little cousin.

My toughest part of the night? What creative activity and gift do I come up with?  I put that pressure on myself, because I want to make it perfect for them, but I know that isn’t the important part.

boy holding tshirt that says 'i survived aunt karen's polar express night'

kids opening presents by a tree

Some of the gifts I’ve given are:

  • the holiday t-shirt,
  • the mug,
  • a snowman making kit,
  • a grab bag,
  • Polar Express pillow cases,
  • gift cards to their favorite places,
  • and many more.

My favorite?  The “I survived Aunt Karen’s Polar Express Night” t-shirt!

polar express quote

The best part of that was when we all happened to go to church at the same time the day after P.E.N and all of the kids were in their t-shirt!  This sure did make me smile, and I laughed out loud when someone tapped my mother on the shoulder and said, “Who is Aunt Karen and what is Polar Express Night?”

Memories to last a lifetime.

The most important thing is that a group of boys and girls that love being together are making memories that will last a long time. Maybe they will even continue this tradition years and years down the road when I’m just “too tired”!!!  That won’t be anytime soon, though–I can guarantee that!

I love to hear the whole gang discuss the memorable moments.

polar express quote

They like to remember the laughs that they have had, the arguments on who would be the “whipped cream squirter” for the night, what team won family trivia, who had the best gingerbread house, and we always find ourselves trying to list the gifts that they received each year.  I will admit, some have been quite memorable!

What P.E.N means to me.

I’m looking forward to my 2013 P.E.N.  I’m sure that some of the teenage nieces and nephews may think they are getting a bit old for it, but I believe that deep down, they  just don’t want to miss out and truly do love it as much as I do.  Hopefully when they all wake up the next day, and I feed them their stacks of pancakes and piles of bacon (I truly feel like a diner cook), they will think, “I’m so glad I didn’t miss out on this.”

polar express book cover with bell

I recently emailed my college niece and asked her what this night means to her.  Here is her response:

“Polar express night means a lot to me. It’s not just time to spend with cousins, because we do that plenty during the year, but it really makes us appreciate each other.  We all have roles to play and we know everyone’s favorite part of both the movie and the night in general. For some, it’s the cookies, for others it trivia, and for some it’s hot chocolate.

One thing that has been pretty special is welcoming new cousins to it. When we started, Ryan didn’t sleep over, or James and last year James did for the first time. Not to mention your new babies, that adds a great addition, not just because they are cute, but because we become more responsible with them around.

We have more tolerance for each other -which is a little bit bad to say- but through those arguments/tiffs that occur every once and while we are given an opportunity to apologize and grow. polar express quote 2

Christmas day is wonderful, as is Christmas Eve, however Polar Express Night offers something extra that those other days don’t. It is a night to spend with the people that will be your friends for life, the people you can tell anything to, laugh with and cry with. They have felt the same sadness as you, and the same pride, that comes with being a member of the Collins family. I love Polar Express night and couldn’t imagine Christmas without it.”

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!  And remember, believe in the magic of Christmas!

Thank you, thank you, THANK YOU, Karen,  for sharing this fun and meaningful holiday tradition with us!

——————————–

karen blake guest post teachmama.comKaren spent 13 years in the classroom, teaching 5th grade and doing what she could to make her students’ learning meaningful and magical. Now, she’s at home raising her 4, 2, and 1 year old, tutoring students, and working for Rendi, where she captures families’ magical memories for sharing and display.  Right now, she’s most likely busy planning this year’s Polar Express party for her many little bell-ringers.

Want a few more holiday-inspired gift ideas or activities? Check out: 

fyi: Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. This small percentage of money helps offset the costs of hosting this blog, which helps me keep this content free for you. Forever and always I recommend only products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”  For more information, please see teachmama media, llc. disclosure policy. 

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holiday note gift idea for families: unique, thoughtful, free | teachmama.com
christmasholidays

holiday note gift idea for families: unique, thoughtful, and FREE

by Teach Mama
written by Teach Mama

These holiday notes may turn out to be one of your family’s most coveted and meaningful traditions!

It’s so easy for our little ones (and even adults sometimes!) to lose sight of what the holiday season is all about.

So in 2008, when I saw this idea on a late-night, dvr’d Oprah, I knew I wanted to use it. With a little prompting, my family tried out Holiday Notes with both sides of the family.

three holiday note cards in a row

Even though some interpreted the exchange a little differently, it was a success overall. Most have said they want to do it again, and with a little tweaking, hopefully it will become a worthwhile and cherished holiday tradition.

This Quick Trick is far from quick, but it’s something that seemed to work well for us, so I thought I’d share.

holiday note gift idea for families: unique, thoughtful, and FREE

The idea behind Holiday Notes is that everyone takes a small amount of time to complete one of three different note cards for each member of the family. Over the holiday season–or at a holiday gathering–the notes are then delivered to each person’s special box, envelope, or bag and is read at another time.

Since our immediate family presented both sides of our extended family with the idea, we made special Holiday Note Card boxes for each person–as our small gift.

little wooden box with 'cora' on tag

Here’s what you need for these holiday note card boxes:

I picked up the small wooden favor bags at the craft store, and each maybe cost a dollar. Then over the course of two or three weeks, Maddy, Owen, Cora, and I worked on the bags.

Here’s how to make the holiday note card boxes:

  1. First we painted all of them.
  2. Then we glitzed, beautified, and decorated. We added bows, glitter (glitter glue is easiest!), sparkles, ribbon, sequins, feathers, and anything we wanted, trying to make each one special for every person in our family.
  3. After everything was dried, we added appropriate name tags.
  4. Then we sat down together and wrote short messages. And I mean short. The three Holiday Note Cards each begin a sentence, and the note cards are tiny.
holiday note gift idea for families | teachmama.com

All our personal messages do is complete the sentence. One note begins, What I love about you. . . The other is My holiday wish for you. . . , and the last one is Thank you for. . .

The Holiday Note Cards can be downloaded here if you’d like:

Sure, some notes were longer than others. Some messages turned out to be completely hysterical, and others were more sentimental. Some were really long, and others were just one sentence.

wooden holiday note bags painted more note bags

Maddy and Owen (as a 4 and 3-year-old) were very excited about what we were doing. As we worked on the bags, I’d ask them what they wanted to thank their Nanny for or what they wished for their sweet cousin.

I was often surprised at what they remembered (Maddy wanted to thank her Great Grandma for letting her “ice” her own bagels with cream cheese, and Owen loved his Great Grandma’s great big loud laugh and wished that his Nana’s cats weren’t always hiding around her house).

We wrote Cora’s for her because she was so young, but no one was too young to appreciate reading the notes that were written to them. We read them over and over and over. My husband and I both read and re-read our own notes from family members.

Sometimes even a short note–one or two sentences–can mean so much.

holiday note bag painted with 'maddy' on the tag

We’ll do these notes every year as an immediate family, and maybe the tradition will continue for a few years with our extended family–or maybe this will be the last year.

It can become a lot to do when there are many people involved.

But for us, the act of sitting down together, really thinking about what we are thankful for, what we wish for for our loved ones, and what we love about them is what the holidays are all about.

Toys will come and go, but these notes–and the bonds they will help to create–we hope will last for years and years and years and years. Happy Holidays!

Traditions are super-important, too, especially family traditions around the holidays. I absolutely love my pal Audrey’s Holiday Tradition Checklist so that we don’t miss out on important family memory making!

Want a few more holiday-inspired learning ideas? Check out: 

Post originally published on 11/24/09 but republishing because I think it’s worth it.  

This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my link.

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halloween games 10 minutes teachmama.com
halloweenholidays

halloween class party: 10 quickie activities for that extra 10 minutes

by Teach Mama
written by Teach Mama

Planning class parties can be a real struggle, especially when you’re rolling solo as the Room Parent.

But for years now, I’ve made it my goal to share as much as was humanly possible so that no one’s stuck trying to figure out what to do with 30 kids eager for a good Halloween par-tay.

halloween games 10 minutes teachmama.com

If you need a full-fledged Halloween class party, you can check out:

for the whole deal.

But if you just need a quickie 10-minute activity for the beginning or end of the party, then you’re in the right place.

Here’s the skinny. . .

Halloween Class Party Activities–Quickie Ideas for That Extra 10 Minutes:

In no particular order, and for a general elementary school aged classroom. Definitely adjust as necessary depending on the needs of the student body.

1. What is it? 

Place an object inside a box or a bag and allow each student to place his or her hand in to feel the item but not actually see the item. Encourage students to use all senses to make a guess about what object is hidden in the box.

This is an activity best done with a smaller group, but it can be played with a larger group, too.  Have 2-4 parent volunteers walk around the class allowing students to feel objects.

Some items to consider:

  • a piece of fruit—banana, apple, orange, lemon
  • a sock or glove
  • a utensil—fork or spoon
  • craft items—feather, pipe cleaner, craft stick, cotton ball, etc
  • writing utensil—crayon, chalk, pencil, pen
  • a small toy—slinky, jacks, dice, domino, wii remote

In order to make this run smoothly, have kids write down numbers 1-5 on their paper and number each bag or box 1-5. That way, as they feel or touch each item, they write down what they think on their paper.

 

2.  Memory Tray

Place 5-10 items on a tray in the front of the room. Make sure all students can see the items. Give them 30-60 seconds to study the items, and then cover the items with a sheet. Have the students write down all the items they remember. The goal is to remember all of the items!

 

3.  Telephone

Also known as “Whisper Down the Alley” this game involves passing a message between an entire group of people.  The first person whispers a phrase to the person next to him or her, then that message is passed from person to person until the last one to hear the message shares it out loud. The goal is to have the message pass through the entire group without error, but very seldom does that happen!

Some messages to consider:

  • Today I ate spaghetti for dinner.
  • Her grandma does the fox trot.
  • Three strikes and you’re out.
  • His seashells cracked in the storefront.
  • The delivery person just brought me six big boxes.

 

4.  Crossword or Word Search

You can’t go wrong with some Halloween crosswords or word searches, so I always love to have a few of these printed out and ready to go for class parties.

Need a few? Got ’em right here for you: Halloween Crossword Puzzle  |  Halloween Word Search

 

5. Hangman . . . or. . . PumpkinMan

Man, I wish this game went by another name, but really, most kids know it as ‘Hangman’.

For Halloween, play it as PumpkinMan and see what the kids think.

pumpkin man | halloween class party game | teachmama.com

Put spaces for each letter of the ‘mystery’ word on the board and give each child a chance to guess the letters. If they choose a letter that’s actually in the word, place it on the line.

If they guess a letter that’s not in the word, then one by one, draw in a part of PumpkinMan’s body: pumpkin head, eyes, nose, mouth, stem, body, arms, hands, legs, and feet.

Here are some words to use for the Halloween game:

  • wicked witch
  • spooky
  • Trick or Treat
  • costume
  • full moon
  • ghost
  • black cat
  • candy corn

 

6.  2 Truths and a Lie

You can play this a number of ways, but a quick way is this: three children sit in front of the class. Before they sit down, a parent volunteer decides that two children will say something true about themselves and the third will say something false about himself or herself.

The class then must guess which children are telling the truth and which child is telling a fib.

 

7.  Hot Potato . . . or Hot Pumpkin

All you need for this one is music and a small pumpkin. Or if you’re not brave enough to use a pumpkin, a small stuffed ghost or bat or cat will work!

Children sit in a circle on the floor. The music starts, and when it stops, the person holding the object is out! Because some children feel awful when called out like this, it can also be played with 2-3 objects being passed around while the music plays. This way, the game moves more quickly and 2-3 children are out at a time. No hard feelings!

 

8.  Guess the Word

It’s always fun when the teachers plays this game. Essentially, the teacher holds one card above his or her head, and on the card one word is written.

Children take turns giving the teacher a one-word clue to help him or her guess the word on the card.

This is a super game to play while students eat snacks because it gets their brains moving and keeps them engaged while they down some sweet treats!

You can download our Halloween Guess the Word Cards here: Halloween Guess the Word just by signing up in the box above! Really–it’s that easy!

 

9.  Guess Who?

Each child writes down five facts about himself or herself. While the kids are eating or finishing snacks, the parent volunteer reads the five facts to the class.

The students do their best to guess who is being described, and the person who guesses correctly wins!

 

10. Freeze Dance

Kids. Love. Freeze dance. They really, really do.

For the last 10 minutes of the party, let the kids burn that last bit of steam, costumes and all!

Turn on Wee Sing Halloween Songs (believe me, all kids love these silly Halloween tunes!).

Or, if you don’t have time and need the tunes now, check out these YouTube videos:

 

Need some more? Got a whole other party planned for you here:   

(No joke. . . you can thank me later! Just click the picture!)
halloween party ideas for kids and classrooms | teachmama.com

Want a few more fun halloween party ideas?

halloween class party: 10 quickie activities for that extra 10 minutes || free download includes Halloween Word Search, Halloween Crossword Puzzle

fyi: Affiliate links are used in this post, which means that every time you purchase something using one of our links, we get at teeny, tiny percentage of the sale. so. . . thank you for using them, friends!

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two boys playing with fire prevention resources
digital literacy

free fire prevention resources and games

by Teach Mama
written by Teach Mama

This is a post sponsored by the National Fire Protection Association and Sparky.org.

It’s October, which means I get to share all about the free fire prevention resources and games from National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Woo-hoooo!

The resources for educators and families that NFPA provides are totally amazing, and it’s something that everyone, whether at home or in school, needs to know about.

Here’s the skinny. . .

Free Fire Prevention Resources and Games

First, it’s important to know that October is Fire Prevention Month. Fire Prevention Week 2019 is October 6 – 12. 

NFPA has exclusive, instructive Fire Prevention Week materials for teachers and parents that will make essential and important fire safety learning engaging and memorable for children. All materials are geared towards preschool through elementary school-aged kids. 

NFPA has videos, lesson plans, printables, and fun apps for students that help kids learn important fire safety rules in an enjoyable way. My students, my nephews and nieces, and my own children have used these resources for years and years. We love them, and you will, too.

Take a quick look:

Free Fire Prevention Videos

You can view the free fire prevention videos on the main site, and as you scroll down the page, you’ll see a handful of really cool and engaging ones!

I particularly love the new Anchor Chart video and corresponding download. Teachers can use the download along with their own hand-drawn anchor chart in their class this very day!

I love how it’s hands-on and interactive. Super clever, NFPA!

Free Fire Prevention Lesson Plans & Printables

The free fire prevention lesson plans are incredibly well-made and really interesting for kids of all ages.

NFPA provides free fire prevention lessons for students from preschool up through grade five, and some of the lessons even connect to the videos on the site.

These lessons can be downloaded and printed, and NFPA even provides free fire prevention books that you can print and use!

I absolutely love the eBook written by New York Times bestselling authors, for students ages 8-11.

This free eBook is ideal for reinforcing fire-safety messages with students while building critical skills in reading comprehension, fluency, vocabulary, and more. Rescue Dogs, Firefighting Heroes, and Science Facts meets Common Core State Standards in English, Language Arts, Social Studies, and Science through a combination of nonfiction, fictional stories, scientific diagrams, and poetry.

For our littlest ones through grade two, Learn Not To Burn® can be used. Its age-appropriate lessons and messages are just what kids need to be prepared in the case of a fire emergency.

Several of the downloadable resources are available in English and Spanish, which I totally love. It’s awesome that NFPA clearly understands that not only English speakers need these resources!

Free Fire Prevention Apps & Sparky.org

The free fire prevention apps are an absolute blast, and we’ve had so much fun playing with them over the years.

The apps and games just seem to keep getting better and better!

As an educator and parent, I totally love to simply bookmark sparky.org as a one-stop shop of all things fire safety for kids.

Sparky.org is kid-friendly and simple for them to navigate. It’s age-appropriate, and it’s engaging.

My sweet nephews loved, loved the games—they really had no idea they were learning as they were playing. I love it!

Many thanks to the good people at NFPA for creating these amazing resources and for making them free—you got it, FREE!—for everyone to use.

What did you think of the NFPA resources? Can you use them at home or in the classroom? I’d love to hear it!

Or better yet, share your thoughts with the team itself!

Want even more resources on Fire Prevention Week?

Check out past posts I’ve written about how families can be prepared for fires:

Check out a few other posts that may help you develop strong and healthy habits for your family:

fyi: This post was written as part of a paid partnership with the National Fire Protection Association and Sparky.org. As always, my opinions are all my own, influenced only by my experience as a parent and educator. 

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boy using human circuit from ward's science
readingsciencescience experiments for kids

Ward’s Science: grants, lessons, products and more

by Teach Mama
written by Teach Mama

This week, Owen and I had an absolute blast taking a look at some of the fab science kits that were sent to us from our friends at Ward’s Science.

Ward’s Science is seriously an educator’s one-stop shop for all things science, and it has been for years and years.

Ward's Science: grants, lessons, products and more -- boy playing with circuit

They’ve got tons and tons of products, resources, lesson plans, and support for helping students connect to science and to really make science come alive for them.

And the coolest things about this company are the history of Ward’s Science (it’s been around for a long, long time!), the scope of science products it provides, and the Ward’s Science Plus Us team of real, live people who are there to support educators in any way they are able.

Oh–and the grants and funding service? INCREDIBLE. Ward’s Science knows that educators are crazy busy and overwhelmed, so they are there there to help teachers with grant-writing. If you’ve ever tried your hand at writing a grant, you know it’s a lot of work. It’s laborious. It’s time-consuming. But Ward’s Science has people there to help you. How awesome is that?

I have a rockin’ discount code for you to use or pass on to your favorite STEM teachers or to the administration team at your school. Read on, friends.

Here’s the skinny. . .

Ward’s Science: Grants, Lessons, Products and More

Ward’s Science goes waaaaay back.

I always love to know a bit about the “behind the scenes” of brands or companies I support. In this day and age, knowing that Ward’s Science has spent over 150 years in the science education business is pretty cool.

Take a minute to read about Henry Augustus Ward (1834-1906) and how he started his company, Ward’s Science. It’s remarkable.

Ward’s Science products cover nearly every science subject.

ward's science: grants, lessons, products and more -- subjects that ward's science covers

Ward’s Science sells hands-on science supplies and activities aligned to the standards, curriculum, or science program you teach. Teachers will love this.

They’ve got:

  • curriculum kits with standards-aligned activity guides;
  • recommended equipment and supplies for the most commonly-taught science programs throughout the country;
  • solutions to save time in your science classroom and meet program requirements or curriculum standards.

We had a chance to look at a few science sets that totally rocked.

Ward’s® Essentials Human Circuit

This kit—like most of the Ward’s Science kids—came with a Teacher Guide and a Student Guide, materials, and handouts to be used for the lesson.

human circuit set from ward's science

The Human Circuit set was something that I think all students will love when they’re learning about electricity.

Owen and I had a blast becoming a “Human Circuit” and testing out how the Energy Tubes carried electrical currents. (It sounds a whole lot more dangerous than it actually was!)

You must take a look at some of the fun Owen and I had with this set. (This is a link to our Instagram Highlight of STEM at Home, so click until you get to the Ward’s Science photos!)

These guys were a riot playing with the materials from this set. We all did.

Again, check out our Instagram Highlight of STEM at Home, so you can see some videos of our experience!

from the site: Interactive energy tubes are ideal for teaching students about open and closed circuits, conductors versus insulators, and light and sound waves. When you hold both ends of the energy tube, your body becomes the conducting material. The gap between the two metal electrodes on the tube is bridged and your body creates a closed circuit. The result is that the energy tube produces sound and red, green, and blue LED lights flash. Engage the entire class using the students as “wires”. Elevate this lesson by incorporating the included simple circuits kit and testing student-generated circuit diagrams. This kit includes enough materials to engage EVERYONE in the classroom- just hold hands.

Ward’s® Essentials Magnetic Slime Kit

With a slime-lover in our house, this activity is bound to be a head-turner.

magnetic slime set from ward's science

Especially because slime is all the rage right now, I think students of all ages will absolutely love getting their hands into some magnetic slime!

from the site: This inquiry activity takes exploration of solids and liquids a step further by challenging students to formulate and test magnetic slime. Students observe physical properties of “pure” substances and track properties as they create various mixtures. Students synthesize their results and create a recipe for the “perfect” magnetic slime.

Ward’s® Essentials Spacesuit Design Challenge

spacesuit set from ward's science

I think when we opened this set, we all had a blast just playing with the materials. It’s been ages since I held a “Water Worm”, and the “Space Worms” are who students actually try to build a spacesuit for!

from the site: With this activity, students are presented with a defined set of materials and asked to design a spacesuit that can help maintain the body temperature of an astronaut in the extreme heat and cold of outer space. Water-filled “Space Worms” are used as test subjects that mimic the water composition of the adult human body. Students must create a budget and plan their testing rounds accordingly. Students collect data on internal temperature changes of the Space Worms and evaluate which suits work best given the economic constraints.

How incredibly fun would this be?!

Ward’s® Essentials Crawling Color, Walking Water

The Crawling Color, Walking Water set was super cool, and I can just imagine how students will respond to this activity.

The colors and movement will get them talking for days. (In a good way–about science–I mean!)

walking water, crawling colors set from ward's science

from the site: This high-quality acrylic display allows the classroom to explore color mixing and the properties of water, including cohesion, adhesion, and capillary action. Students take their knowledge a step further by engineering a plant model and mapping capillary action through the “xylem.” This kit includes enough materials for 15 student groups.

Ward’s Science Grants and Funding Services rocks.

Have you ever tried to write a grant, friend?

Grant writing is no joke. It’s laborious. It’s time-consuming. It’s absolutely exhausting.

But unfortunately, for many teachers, it’s the only way they can secure materials or experiences for their students.

I love that Ward’s Science has a whole crew available to help people with grant-writing and funding. Ward’s Science wants to help and offers:

  • Step-by-step support for all your science and technology funding needs
  • One-on-one partnership with an expert Ward’s Science Grant Consultant
  • Proven success – over $5 million secured since 2012

They’ve helped over 1,000 educators win science and technology funding – and we can help you too! (I LOVE THIS!)

Share a Ward’s Science discount code with your teachers and schools.

Guess what? We’ve got a sweet discount for you, my friends. Share this post with your kids’ schools, with your favorite teachers, and with your PTA or PTO.

TeachMama readers Get 15% off  your order total plus FREE SHIPPING with exclusive promo code WardsWorld15TM.

Offer valid on web only at wardsci.com. To activate offer, use promo code at checkout. Offer expires 11/31/19. Free shipping includes standard ground shipping only and excludes items with hazardous shipping; standard hazardous shipping fees will apply. Unless otherwise specified, contract discounts and special offers may not be applied to any item priced with a final digit of ‘9’ (i.e. $6.99; $10.09; $129.99.) Offer excludes Somso models due to custom nature of the product. Offer excludes all Triumph Board products. Promotional discounts also may not be combined with other offers, discounts, contracts, or promotions. For more details, visit wardsci.com/terms. Selected items may be or contain chemicals, live materials, or hazardous materials and may be restricted for purchasing by educational institutions only. To purchase restricted items, please log into wardsci.com with your Full Web Profile, or create a new Full Web Profile here using your school’s Shipping Account Number. A full profile also allows you to pay with purchase orders, receive tax exemptions, contract pricing (if applicable), and other advanced features.  Don’t know your Shipping Account Number or not sure what it is? We can help. Email wardscs@vwr.com or Click to Chat on the profile registration page and a Ward’s Science Representative will help you locate your Shipping Account Number or apply for a new one. 

Ward's Science close-up of boy using human circuit supplies on his cheeks

Connect with the Ward’s Science team on social.

I love it when brands and businesses make it super-easy to connect with them. I love it when they try to reach folks in a number of different ways, to meet people where they are.

Facebook:     https://www.facebook.com/wardsci

Twitter:      https://www.twitter.com/WardsScience

YouTube:    https://www.youtube.com/user/wardsci

Pinterest:     https://www.pinterest.com/wardsscience/

Instagram:    https://www.instagram.com/wardsscience/

Hashtag to follow:     #wardsworld 

Ward's Science Grants, Products, Lessons, and more -- spacesuit design challenge supplies
Ward's Science boy using Human Circuit on his braces

fyi: This post was written as part of a sponsorship with Ward’s Science and We Are Teachers. As always, opinions and ideas are all my own, influenced only by my experience as an educator and parent.

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5 back to school rituals for busy families | teachmama.com
family lifeschool

5 fun back-to-school rituals for busy families

by Teach Mama
written by Teach Mama

Friends.

There’s no denying it. 5 back to school rituals for busy families | teachmama.com

Back-to-school season is in full swing, so I thought I’d take a minute to share a few fun back-to-school rituals for busy families. I

Here’s the skinny. .  .

5 Fun Back-to-School Rituals for Busy Families

Family Camp-In

No matter where in the world you live, the weather’s always perfect for a Family Camp-In.

A Camp-In is the opposite of a Camp-Out, of course! A Camp-In takes place in your house, in a room large enough for the whole family.

And though you can’t toast marshmallows indoors, you can still pop popcorn, put a movie on, and sleep in sleeping bags on the floor.  Sure, it may be a little tight and the floor may be a tiny bit uncomfortable, but it sure beats fighting those mosquitos and spiders.

5 back to school rituals for busy families | teachmama.com

Plus, when you have a Family Camp-In, you can take time to talk about the awesome summer you just had along with some things you’re looking forward to this fall.

Be sure to talk about:

  • your favorite summer memory;
  • the funniest thing that happened this summer;
  • your most relaxing day;
  • your busiest summer day;
  • what you are most looking forward to this school year;
  • which activities you’ll be doing this fall;
  • some goals for the new school year.

Yes! Day

Scheduling–or surprising!–your kids with a Yes! Day before school starts is a ritual that is shared by many of my friends.

My kids are still asking for one, but I just haven’t had the nerve to do it. I should have started this much sought-after, dream day with my kids when they were younger; that way, I could have set boundaries and rules from the start.

5 back to school rituals for busy families | teachmama.com

I fear if I start now, they’ll really take advantage of me promising to say “Yes!” for just about everything they ask.

In a typical Yes! Day, here’s what happens: Kids make requests and parents say “yes!”

For many families, these are the guidelines they stick by:

  • Parents have the ultimate power to say “No!” to anything.
  • Nothing can cost over $10 (or any reasonable amount determined by the parent);
  • Yes! Day has a specific beginning and end, say 10 am to 8 pm.

Like I said, it’s not a Back-to-School ritual that our family has practiced, but it’s one that my kids have requested year after year after year. Maybe this is the year I’ll surprise them?

Ice-Cream for Dinner the First Day of School

This is a ritual that just about anyone can do with relative ease and just a bit of planning: ice-cream for dinner the first day of school.

5 back to school rituals for busy families | teachmama.com

One of my friends has done this religiously ever since her son started Kindergarten which I think is so cool. And now, three kids later her son will be starting his junior year of high school this year, and they’re still doing it.

Talk about a sweet way to end an otherwise stressful day for kids!

Purge then Shop the House

Purge then Shopping the House is a ritual our family has done each year for many years now, and it’s a game-changer.

5 back to school rituals for busy families | teachmama.com

When you Purge then Shop the House, you do two things:

1.) The Purge

Each person in the family goes through closets, dressers, and old backpacks (especially if you didn’t empty them in June!) and they search for items they no longer need.

Those items are put in two piles: give away and donate. The give away piles are left alone, and the donate items are put into bags to donate. These are items that have only a little life left in them.

The give away items are then used for Shop the House.

2.) Shop the House

Shop the House is simply shopping for items you may need–in your house. You know the saying, “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure”? Here’s where it’s put into action.

Each person in the house can “shop” through other people’s give away piles. You will be surprised at what you find!

School Supply Shopping Extravaganza

Another highly-anticipated back-to-school ritual in our family is our annual School Supply Shopping Extravaganza.

Each year, my kids and I decide on a day to set aside solely for back-to-school shopping, and we truly prepare. The kids gather their lists from their school websites, and then they figure out what they still need after Shopping the House.

5 back to school rituals for busy families | teachmama.com

Sometimes, if a kid gets lucky, he or she can use a bunch of last year’s almost-untouched-supplies and save a few dollars on this year’s school supply haul.

Other times, kids really have to use the weekly sales fliers, the coupons and discounts we have, and budget their money.

Definitely follow the accounts below to stay in the loop:

Check out a few other posts that may help you develop strong and healthy habits for your family:

fyi: Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Forever and always I recommend only products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”  For more information, please see teachmama media, llc. disclosure policy. 

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money confident kids _ teachmama.com
math

30 days of financial fitness: 3 cool resources to raise financial literacy in kids

by Teach Mama
written by Teach Mama

As a parent and educator, I know it is super important that my kids learn how to make smart financial decisions now, before they go off into the real world.  But I know that raising money confident kids isn’t always easy.

It involves planning.

It involves understanding ourselves how to be money confident—and that can be scary, even as adults.

money confident kids _ teachmama.com

So when I was asked by the good people at T. Rowe Price to take a look at the Money Confident Kids® resources they have for school and home, you bet I was ready. The more I learn, the more I can help my children become financially fit.

I really love the range and creativity of these resources, and you will, too.

30 Days of Financial Fitness – 3 Cool Resources to Raise Financial Literacy in Kids

Here’s the skinny. .  .

When Maddy, Owen, and Cora were young, we started them off with Spend, Save and Give Jars. These jars helped them understand generally how important it is to be wise with our money, but to be honest, as time went on, we kind of forgot about the jars.

Now that they’re older, I know they need more than three simple jars to help them understand and manage money. I know they need more than just a checkbook or ledger sheet to keep track of their expenses.

I know that kids today are used to multi-sensory learning—they need online and offline, they need interactive and old-school hardcopy. The combination of all of these elements will ensure that all of our kids get what they need which is why I love these three resources from T. Rowe Price.

1.) Money Confident Kids mini-mags

Almost every day, I leave something out on the counter for my kids to read, which is why I love these Money Confident Kids mini-magazines!

money confident kids | teachmama.com

There’s a Money Confident Kids magazine for middle schoolers, which was created in partnership with Junior Scholastic, and there’s one for high schoolers, created in partnership with Choices Magazine.

money confident kids | teachmama.com
money confident kids | teachmama.com

I simply printed the magazines, added a note to each with a few articles I thought would be interesting for Maddy, Owen, and Cora, and I let them read!

There are high-interest articles, images, and infographics in each magazine which kids really respond to. And if you’re not sure what to do with these resources on their own—if you need more ideas for discussion or follow-up—each magazine has its own teaching guide that you can use as support. So cool.

money confident kids | teachmama.com
money confident kids | teachmama.com

Also on the site is a fun Heads or Tails Savings Game where kids can literally flip a coin and see what will happen if they:

  • simply put money they earned from a summer job into a savings account; or
  • put money they earned from a summer job into a savings account and add $50/ month to the account.

It’s worth checking out, for sure.

2.) 30-Day Financial Fitness Calendar

As a person who thrives on consistency, the 30 Days of Financial Fitness Calendar made me want to dance.

money confident kids | teachmama.com

With a daily money-related focus that was actually manageable, I truly think that any family can be on its way to financial fitness if they follow it.

With daily ideas like:

  • Start the Conversation: Ask kids, what do you want to be when you grow up? How much education or training does that require, and what how will that impact college savings?
  • Visit the Bank: Take your child to the bank and give him or her a mini tutorial. . .
  • Kid Chefs, Part 1: Cook your child’s favorite dinner at home and keep track of the cost with him or her. .  .
  • Taste the Difference: Give a blind taste test comparing name and generic products and explain the cost comparison between items. . .

it’s hard not to want to jump right in and get started on our own challenge!

3.) The Star Banks Adventure® App

The Star Banks Adventure app is a fun and new app for players ages about 8 years old and above.  It’s a great way for kids to put to use the skills and ideas that they’re learning about how to be more confident with money.

money confident kids | teachmama.com

Owen has given the game a shot a few times, and he said it’s a little bit of a mix of several games he is familiar with but with a totally different spin. Granted, Owen’s 13—and a pretty serious gamer—so Star Banks Adventure wasn’t too tricky or challenging for him, but it kept him entertained and reading for a while.

money confident kids | teachmama.com
money confident kids | teachmama.com

I like that this game provides yet another way to encourage us all to talk about the important concepts of financial literacy.

And if teachers want to bring this game to the classroom, there’s even a “classroom mode” that allows the teacher to focus on key learning ideas and to track students’ progress. Perhaps parents could even do the same for the kids in their family! Love it!

Check out the Money Confident Kids website for more.

Really, this is just the tip of the iceberg; there are dozens of other cool resources worth checking out and using either at home or in the classroom.

money confident kids | teachmama.com

I actually even forwarded the site to my kids’ administrative teams at their schools just to let them know these resources are available. I’m sure any educator who checks out these resources will gladly use them and introduce them to students! 

Really, no matter the age of your children, today is the day to begin helping your kids to make financially fit decisions. It’s not even an option, friends; it’s a necessity.

money confident kids _ teachmama.com

Learn more:

money confident kids _ teachmama.com
money confident kids _ teachmama.com

fyi: Many thanks to the great people at T. Rowe Price for sharing these resources and for sponsoring this post. As always, my opinions and ideas are all my own, influenced only by my experience as a parent and educator.

T. ROWE PRICE, STARBANKS ADVENTURE, AND MONEY CONFIDENT KIDS are trademarks of T. Rowe Price Group, Inc. Used with permission.

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valentine's day water bottle labels: get kids reading jokes! teachmama.com
holidaysvalentine's day

valentine’s day water bottle labels: get kids reading jokes!

by Teach Mama
written by Teach Mama

I love any reason to get kids reading–that’s no secret.

And I love a good joke.

That’s really no secret, either.

So I made these Valentine’s Day joke notes to put on plain-Jane water bottles, over the label.

I love them.

Valentine’s Day water bottle labels will not only give your kids–or students–something refreshing to drink, but it’ll give them something to laugh about as well.

valentine's day water bottle labels: get kids reading jokes! teachmama.com

Here’s the skinny. . .

Valentine’s Day Water Bottle Labels — Get Your Kids Reading Jokes!

Making these is super easy for any parent or teacher.

Here’s how to make them:

valentine's day water bottle labels: teachmama.com

valentine's day water bottle labels: teachmama.com
1. Print your Water Bottle Labels

You need no special paper, my friend. Regular ole computer paper will do.

Grab them here in the teach mama shop: 

buy now button

There are ten labels, which I think is perfect for any regular-sized classroom. That way, kids in little table clusters will have different jokes to read and share!

2. Cut the labels

Really–just cut them straight across the paper by separating the labels. Do not trim the edges at all.

valentine's day water bottle labels: teachmama.com

valentine's day water bottle labels: teachmama.com

The length is perfect for wrapping around a water bottle.

3. Tape the edges together. 

We used one piece of tape and made sure that the tape connected the paper and touched the bottle as well.

valentine's day water bottle labels: teachmama.com

How cute are they?

Cora helped me tape the labels on as we finished up her Valentines and gathered things for her class party. It took five minutes.

valentine's day water bottle labels: teachmama.com

Want a few more fun Valentine’s Day ideas? Check out: 

how to throw a rockstar valentine's day party teachmama.com 2

valentine's day class party ideas, 2.0 | teachmama.com

minute to win it class party | teachmama.com

valentines-day-class-party-ideas-teachmama.com_

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thank you delivery people: free printable for families
christmasfeaturedholidays

thank you delivery people: easy printable for families

by Teach Mama
written by Teach Mama

This time of the year is insane.

We’re moving so quickly, our to-do lists are nuts, and often we’re totally forgetting to breathe.

At least I am.

thank you delivery people: free printable for families

So when I saw my sweet and smart friend Danielle Smith, of Pretty Extraordinary, take a minute to say “thank you” to the delivery people, I stopped and smiled.

This is so simple. But it can really make someone’s day.

Here’s the skinny. . .

Thank You Delivery People — Printables for Families

It’s a simple “thank you” that you can leave on your doorstep for the people from the USPS, UPS, FedEx, Amazon, or any delivery company. You can put anything you’d like inside it, but essentially, it’s a little container of drinks and snacks with a little thank you note.

thank you delivery people teachmama.com

Just think about how quickly those hardworking men and women are moving. They go non-stop all day and into the night. How happy might they be if they stop at your house and see a little note of thanks? I had to do it.

So if you’d like to grab the printables I created, they’re here for you to grab.

Simply throw your name in the box below, and it’ll end up in your inbox in no time. Print, sign, and put it outside. If you’re super fancy and want to laminate, go ahead.

(Here’s my favorite laminator: Scotch Thermal Laminator)

 

And here’s your ticket to the thank you delivery people poster:

Check out these NEW posters!

buy now button

Thank you for supporting my small business with this purchase.

I cannot tell you how much I appreciate you–every, little bit helps!

 

thank you poster in cooler

thank you poster with snacks and drinks

What do you do if you’ve got bold animals in your yard?

If you have squirrels, chipmunks, fox, rabbits, or even cats who are super bold and feisty, then you have to be a little more wise with your ‘thank you’. 

Put your treats inside a zip cooler, or a plastic storage container with a lid. Simple. Easy!

thank you poster with cooler

side view of thank you poster in cooler

Have a great holiday, and do let me know what you’re doing to brighten someone’s day or to add to the holiday spirit–I’d love to know!

Want a few more holiday-inspired gift ideas or activities? Check out: 

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national youth science day | code your world kit | teachmama.com
sciencescience experiments for kids

national youth science day: code your world kit giveaway

by Teach Mama
written by Teach Mama

Have you heard? You can celebrate National Youth Science Day all month long!

HughesNet (America’s #1 provider of satellite Internet and a supporter of 4-H) is doing something totally awesome in celebration of NYSD. Something you don’t want to miss.

national youth science day | code your world kit | teachmama.com

4-H has turned National Youth Science Day into a month-long celebration this year, with a challenge called Code Your World, which invites kids to get involved in computer science through hands-on doing.

And we are giving away 12 Code Your World Kits to 6 lucky winners. You get one kit, and you give one to a friend. Or you keep both. Or you give both to a classroom near you.

Whatever works.

Here’s the skinny. . .

National Youth Science Day: Code Your World Challenge

The Code Your World Challenge

This October, 4‑H launched an exciting National Youth Science Day challenge, Code Your World, inviting kids to get involved in computer science (CS) through hands-on doing. The national NYSD celebration kicked off October 1, and coding events can take place all throughout October.

Don’t you love the idea of kids getting involved in computer science through hands-on doing? Let them at it, and they will learn–and probably be able to teach us a little something!

Learn more here:

Easier than ever to facilitate, Code Your World is a four-part challenge that teaches kids ages 8-14 to apply CS to the world around them through hands-on activities. Developed by Google and West Virginia University Extension Service, each Code Your World kit includes a computer-based activity on Google’s CS First platform and three unplugged activities that bring coding to life through games and interaction.

How cool is that?

The four-part challenge is geared toward kids 8-14 years old and involves one computer-based activity and three unplugged activities that bring coding to life through games and interaction.

This 2018 National Youth Science Day Kit Includes:

  • 1 Facilitator Guide
  • 10 Youth Workbooks
  • 10 Certificates of Completion
  • 20 Completion Badge Stickers
  • 13 Scratch Coding Challenge Cards
  • Scratch Username and Password Sheet
  • 2 sets of 26 Dance Code Cards, plus 2 reference cards
  • 5 Dice
  • 5 Wooden Coins
  • Code Your Dance Poster
  • 40 Crayons
  • 13 Unique Scratch Activity Cards
  • 2 Deck of 26 “Code Your Dance” Activity Cards
  • The USB Drive Includes:
  • Offline versions of Scratch and Adobe Air (for Mac OS X & Windows)
  • Animate a Name Offline Instructions
  • Printable Facilitator Guide
  • Printable Scratch Coding Challenge Cards
  • Printable Certificates of Completion Badge Stickers
  • Printable Youth Workbook (Code Your Dance, AI, Code Your World)
  • Printable Custom Code Your Dance Cards
  • Careers with Code Magazine

Enter to win TWO Code Your World kits by throwing your name in the raffle below:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Or, if you don’t want to wait and want to get in on the fun now, you can purchase your Code Your World kit below to get ready for National Youth Science Day.

 

HughesNet works with 4-H so that all children, no matter where they live, have access to hands-on experiential STEM learning. The company’s support of STEM education is part of its larger commitment to bridging the digital divide. HughesNet is giving Code Your World kits as part of its commitment
to increasing access to STEM education.

4‑H is:

  • the nation’s largest youth development organization which grows confident young people who are empowered for life today and prepared for career tomorrow;
  • the youth development program of our nation’s Cooperative Extension System and USDA, and it serves every county and parish in the U.S. through a network of 110 public universities and more than 3,000 local Extension offices;
  • where kids complete hands-on projects in areas like health, science, AGRICULTURE and citizenship, in a positive environment where they receive guidance from adult mentors and are encouraged to take on proactive leadership roles.
Follow 4-H:
What do you know about HughesNet?
  • Hughes is the global leader in broadband satellite technology, and its flagship high-speed satellite Internet service is HughesNet®, the world’s largest satellite network with over 1.2 million residential and business customers across the Americas.
  • HughesNet Twitter: @HughesNet
  • HughesNet Instagram: @HughesNet
  • HughesNet Facebook: HughesNet
  • Hughes LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hughesconnects/

What do you think?

Who will you share these awesome kits with? I’d love to know!

If you love the idea of being prepared, check out National Preparedness Month!

national youth science day code your world kit teachmama.com

fyi: This post was written as part of a partnership with HughesNet, but as always, my opinions are all my own, influenced only by my experience as a parent and educator. 

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STEM Lab: free, hands-on STEM activities for kids & teens | teachmama.com
sciencescience experiments for kids

STEM Lab: free, hands-on STEM activities for kids & teens

by Teach Mama
written by Teach Mama

As a teacher and parent, I am always, always on the hunt for free, hands-on STEM activities for kids and teens.

It’s always been my goal to raise confident, curious kids–children who question the world around them and want to learn how and why things work the way they do. So whenever we’ve had questions about things, we researched the answer together.

STEM Lab: free, hands-on STEM activities for kids & teens | teachmama.com

I was recently introduced to an incredible resource that I’m thrilled to share with parents and educators–it’s totally free, it’s hands-on, and it’s seriously a celebration of all things STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math).

It’s the 4-H STEM Lab, and when the great people at HughesNet and 4-H asked me to share the 4-H STEM Lab coolness with you, I was totally game.

HughesNet and 4-H teamed up to bring STEM Lab to life, and the partnership is awesome: 

  • HughesNet and 4-H serves the same small, local communities across America which are passionate about STEM education, building future leaders, and the role they will play in advancing our country’s competitiveness in the global economy. 
  • The goal is to inspire the next generation of leaders in STEM because access to quality STEM education shouldn’t be determined by where you live. 
  • Read more about the HughesNet and 4-H partnership here.

Oh, how I wish something like this existed when my kids were home with me all day! The great news? No matter how old your kids are, I’m betting there’s something on this site for you.

Really and truly, it’s awesome.

Here’s the skinny. . .

STEM Lab — Free, Hands-On STEM Activities for Kids & Teens

STEM Lab is an online hub offering fun, hands-on STEM activities developed by top public universities and 4-H groups to spark kids’ interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

STEM Lab is

  • found here —4-H.org/STEMLab;
  • geared toward students age 4-16 years old;
  • full of projects that include easy-to-follow instructions, discussion questions, and supply lists (many supplies you’ll have at home!);
  • for use in home or classroom or club — each project comes with a “Messy Meter” ranging from “clean” to “mega mess”;
  • preparing youth for the future, opening doors to exciting potential careers in STEM fields;
  • making sure that all children, no matter where they live, have access to hands-on, experiential STEM learning.

How do you use STEM Lab?

Simple!

1. Visit 4-H.org/STEMLab.

STEM Lab: free, hands-on STEM activities for kids & teens

 

2. Fill out the Search Bar — decide on a topic and grade range.

STEM Lab: free, hands-on STEM activities for kids & teens

3.  Search for a project that appeals to you.

STEM Lab: free, hands-on STEM activities for kids & teens

STEM Lab: free, hands-on STEM activities for kids & teens

4. Have fun and learn!

STEM Lab: free, hands-on STEM activities for kids & teens

We put the 4-H STEM Lab to the test, and it was a blast.

My nieces gave the Fizzy Foam Fun activity a go, and it was perfect for these two preschoolers.

STEM Lab: free, hands-on STEM activities for kids & teens | teachmama.com0016

STEM Lab: free, hands-on STEM activities for kids & teens | teachmama.com

STEM Lab: free, hands-on STEM activities for kids & teens | teachmama.com

They could not wait to have some Fizzy Foam Fun! It was a gorgeous day, so we took the girls to the store in the morning to purchase the items.

Luckily, we only needed items that are readily available at the grocery store.

STEM Lab: free, hands-on STEM activities for kids & teens | teachmama.com

STEM Lab: free, hands-on STEM activities for kids & teens | teachmama.com

The activity was very easy for the girls to participate in–and they loved it!

They even learned simple things like how to make a funnel out of a paper plate in order to more easily put the ingredients into the water bottle. The funny thing is that later that day, they wanted to do the same thing on the sand, on their own!

Great skill transfer if you ask me!

STEM Lab: free, hands-on STEM activities for kids & teens | teachmama.com

We tried the experiment with red and blue food coloring, and the girls were Ohhhhhh-ing and Ahhhhhhh-ing each time.

They were surprised at how different the bubbles felt than how they looked.

I think they expected it to feel more like a thick shaving cream-like foam. Lots of important learning!

STEM Lab: free, hands-on STEM activities for kids & teens | teachmama.com

And my own kids learned a ton by making their own Rubber Band Car.

STEM Lab: free, hands-on STEM activities for kids & teens | teachmama.com

STEM Lab: free, hands-on STEM activities for kids & teens | teachmama.com

We definitely learned that we should have used a flatter container; the website uses an empty mustard bottle–which we didn’t have on hand–so we went for a peanut container. (Easier to clean and empty for us!)

However, our container was more round, so it made making holes for the front and back axels more tricky.

STEM Lab: free, hands-on STEM activities for kids & teens | teachmama.com

STEM Lab: free, hands-on STEM activities for kids & teens | teachmama.com

Of course, I supervised the whole activity–especially the poking with a knife and using the hot glue gun!

STEM Lab: free, hands-on STEM activities for kids & teens | teachmama.com

Getting the hang of making the knots and tightening the rubber bands took a bit of time for us, but with a little patience and deep breathing, we got it.

What was helpful for us was to print out the directions for our activities and use them along with the online directions.

You know that we’re not super science focused over here; however the reading to learn is an important skill emphasized quite often. I loved the practice it gave all of us!

And what really interested Owen and Cora was the fact that the Rubber Band Car distance is a challenge in the Guinness Book of World Records–and the site helps you through timing, recording, etc. I think it’s definitely something that my kids will go back to and try.

Watch out, world!

STEM Lab: free, hands-on STEM activities for kids & teens | teachmama.com

I’ll be the first to admit, we’re not Guinness World Record-ready with our Rubber Band Car, but we tried! And boy–did we learn a ton about physics!

This was a super activity for us to try because my 9th grader is in AP Physics this year. Perfect way to spend a weekend afternoon!

What do you know about 4-H? 

4-H is a community.

STEM Lab: free, hands-on STEM activities for kids & teens

4‑H is:

  • the nation’s largest youth development organization which grows confident young people who are empowered for life today and prepared for career tomorrow;
  • the youth development program of our nation’s Cooperative Extension System and USDA, and it serves every county and parish in the U.S. through a network of 110 public universities and more than 3,000 local Extension offices;
  • active globally, where it collaborates with independent programs to empower one million youth in 50 countries.
  • grows young people who are 4x’s more likely to contribute to their communities, 2x’s more likely to make healthier choices, 2x’s more likely to be civically active, and 2x’s more likely to participate in STEM programs;
  • where kids complete hands-on projects in areas like health, science, AGRICULTURE and citizenship, in a positive environment where they receive guidance from adult mentors and are encouraged to take on proactive leadership roles.
Follow 4-H:
What do you know about HughesNet?
  • Hughes Network Systems is the global leader in broadband satellite technology and services for home and office.
  • Its flagship high-speed satellite Internet service is HughesNet®, the world’s largest satellite network with over 1.2 million residential and business customers across the Americas.

 

What do you think?

Who will you share this awesome, free resource with? I’d love to know!

 

fyi: This post was written as part of a partnership with HughesNet and 4-H, but as always, my opinions are all my own, influenced only by my experience as a parent and educator. 

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hello teacher notes
Best Of Teach Mamafamily lifeschool

hello teacher notes: let kids connect with teachers

by Teach Mama
written by Teach Mama

Hello Teacher Notes are a quick and easy way to make back-to-school a tiny bit less stressful.

This is another one of our fave back-to-school traditions, and this one involves a little bit of writing, some decorating, and a wee bit of walking.

Not much walking, really.  Just to the mailbox or up to the school, depending on where you live.

hello teacher notes

For the last few years, we’ve rocked Hello, Teacher Notes to ease the transition from summer break to school year just a tiny bit easier for Maddy, Owen, and Cora.  Okay, and me.

We sent them:

And we sent them again this year, with Maddy going to 3rd grade, Owen going to 1st, and Cora (waaaah!) going to Kindergarten.

Each note is slightly different to account for age differences in the kids, but essentially, they’re similar in their purpose–to give the kids a chance to say ‘hello’ to their teachers before that sometimes-stressful first day.

Here’s the skinny. . .

Hello Teacher Notes– Let Kids Connect With Teachers

Take a look. . .

Want to send your own Hello Teacher Notes?

Download and print our templates by subscribing below:

Who are Hello Teacher Notes for?

Send them to teachers before Kindergarten or preschool!

Use these notes to ease anxiety before primary grades– first and second grades.

Have students send Hello Teacher Notes to upper elementary grade teachers– 3rd grade and above!

What are People Saying?

Though we’ve used the notes before school began, I’ve had many, many people email me and say that they used them any time during that first month of school–or for kids who moved, switched teachers, or something similar.  Just knowing that they’re working for other kids makes us so happy.

So really, it doesn’t know how your child connects with his or her teacher–it’s just important that it happens early in the game.

Want a little more back-to-school fun? A few more rockstar resources?

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disney youth programs YES you need to know about the youth education series teachmama.com
family lifetravel

disney youth programs: YES you need to know about the youth education series

by Teach Mama
written by Teach Mama

This summer, I had the great opportunity to learn about Disney Youth Programs.

Have you heard of Disney Youth Programs?

disney youth programs: YES you need to know about the youth education series | Disney YES! | Disney Youth Education Series

Maybe you’ve seen those cool, Disney Cast Members with YES! on their blue shirts? Or maybe you’ve heard of a high school band or choir performing in a Disney parade?

Honestly, Disney Youth Programs are Disney’s best-kept secret if you ask me. You know I’m always on the hunt for fun and sneaky learning opportunities, and you know we’re huge Disney fans. Right?

So this is the most perfect combination ever, ever in the history of the universe.

First, you must know that Disney Youth Programs consists of three categories: 1.) Youth Education Series (YES); 2.) Disney Performing Arts (DPA); and 3.) Celebrations and Field Trips.

While we were in Orlando, Owen and I got a first-hand look at the YES and DPA Programs, and we were in awe.

disney youth programs YES you need to know about the youth education series teachmama.com

I’m going to do my best to share what I learned, but know there’s a boatload of info on the sites as well.

You must read on if you ever wondered:

  • Why are those cast members wearing YES! on their blue shirts?
  • How can kids get a “behind the scenes” look at the Disney parks and attractions?
  • Wouldn’t it be awesome if Disney World or Disneyland became “classrooms”?
  • Could you possibly examine the art of leadership and teamwork from Disney?
  • What is the audition process like for Disney cast members?

And if there’s anything else you want to know that I haven’t answered here, you just let me know, and I’ll do my best to get the answers.

Here’s the skinny. . .

Disney Youth Programs — YES You Need to Know About This! 

Our first YES program was a look at the Energy and Waves Physics Lab, and our teacher, Chris, was awesome–he was super smart, charismatic, fun, and really knew how to engage and involve the tweens and teens in our group.

disney youth programs teachmama.com 1

You guys–fyi, what we experienced was a 90-minute version of the 3-hour program, and it was so cool.

We never wanted it to end.

disney youth programs: teachmama.com

Our program took place in the Magic Kingdom, and even in the short time we were there, we learned a ton.

We started by chatting in the shade of one of the shops about prisms and light and waves.

disney youth programs: teachmama.com

 

disney youth programs: teachmama.com

Chris kept pulling things out of his “Mary Poppins bag” to help explain and illustrate his points.

Even though it was super hot and Orlando-muggy, Chris had our group engaged and everyone actively participating. He’d get the kids thinking about what they already knew and then would have them tie that info into newer concepts.

disney youth programs teachmama.com 1

We were introduced to scrim–this mesh cloth that seems opaque until lit from behind–and we talked about how it is used to control what we see in and around much of the Disney parks.

Then, as a group, we headed into the Haunted Mansion to look more closely at this super-spooky attraction and to see if we could tell how light was used to create special effects. Spoiler alert: It wasn’t easy! These Disney Imagineers are good at what they do!

disney youth programs teachmama.com 1

Honestly, one of the coolest parts of the whole experience was our behind-the-scenes look at the Haunted Mansion. I mean a true behind the scenes look.

It was so behind-the-scenes that we had to put our cameras away and promise not to take them out until we were back on the other side of the attraction.

disney youth programs teachmama.com 3

disney youth programs teachmama.com 3

One-by-one, we followed the lead of our Cast Member guide and walked out of the bright, Florida sunshine and into the back end and under the Haunted Mansion. We were able to see park guests on the ride, Oooohing and Aaaahhhhing at the special effects as we stood by in the shadows, silently watching it all unfold just like Chris told us it would.

It. Was. SototallycoolIcantevenhandleit.

If you want to see more, definitely check out my Instagram highlights: Disney!.

disney youth programs teachmama.com 9

I am hoping beyond all hope that the kids and I are invited to check out more of these programs because before this summer, we had no idea about them.

Many of the Disney Youth Education Programs have printables and resources to print out and use before the experience. 

In fact, Our Energy and Waves Physics Lab included these printables below:

disney youth programs teachmama.com 3

disney youth programs YES you need to know about this teachmama.com

But others don’t have any prep or printables. They might not need them–each program is different and unique!

The Youth Education Programs vary as much as their topics. 

Like I said, Disney Youth Programs consists of three categories: 1.) Youth Education Series (YES); 2.) Disney Performing Arts (DPA); and 3.) Celebrations and Field Trips.  Each component has a ton of options within.

Youth Education Series (YES) are:

  • field studies that take place within the Disney parks;
  • programs in science, arts & humanities, and leadership that enhance classroom lessons while emphasizing critical thinking skills;
  • on topics like Energy and Waves Physics Lab (This is the one we got to try!), The Science of Disney Imagineering: Gravity (use the Tower of Terror and Rock n’ Rollercoaster to learn about gravity!), Creating a Leadership Legacy (How did Walt do it?), Designing a Disney Story (How do the Disney animators do it??);
  • each about 2-3 hours long;
  • accredited and meet National Core Arts Standards;
  • open to students age 8 through grade 12 (and there are four college-level programs as well!);
  • offered at both Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort year-round (with the exception of some blackout dates);
  • in Disney World’s Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom and in Disneyland Resort.

Who can attend Disney Youth Education Programs?

Attendees for YES programs:

  • can be groups of 10 or more students, age 8 through grade 12 from the US, Canada, or Puerto Rico;
  • must have one adult chaperone for every 5 students at Walt Disney World Resort and one adult chaperone for every 10 students in Disneyland Resort;
  • can be from any youth organization including scouts, camps, daycare centers and religious groups;
  • read more about attendees here.

disney youth programs teachmama.com 1

So how do you get started? Where can you sign up for Disney Youth Programs?

How do you get connected with Disney Youth Programs? 

Now it’s time to learn about the Disney Performing Arts programs.

Check it out:

And check out a few other Disney-related posts:

disney pin trading why it rocks for families teachmama.com.png

bleached out disney tshirts teachmama.com black shirt

disney surprise scavenger hunt

disney word searches: getting kids ready for the trip!

disney world fun fact lunchbox notes | teachmama.com

disney dollars: kids earn 'money' for their disney trip

talk with kids about emotions: | teachmama.com

fyi: I was invited to learn about and explore the Disney Youth Programs by my friends at Walt Disney World, but as always, my opinions are all my own, influenced only by my experiences as an educator and parent. My travel and accommodations were covered by Disney, and for that I am grateful. I received no other compensation for this post. 

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how to teach kids the ABCs: 5 fun ways | teachmama.com
alphabetearly literacy

how to teach kids the ABCs: 5 fun ways

by Teach Mama
written by Teach Mama

Let’s face it: the letters of the alphabet are the building blocks of the English language.

They are.

The ABCs are among the most important things our children will learn when they’re young, and the good news is that they’re something that families can very easily help children learn.

how to teach kids the ABCs: 5 fun ways | teachmama.com

But how should you teach kids the ABCs?

Where should you begin and when should you start?

What kinds of supplies do you need? How much time do you need?

Really, it’s pretty simple, friend. So put away those workbooks and worksheets.

Cast aside the worry and stress.

I’ve got you covered. It’s actually easy–and fun--to teach your kids the letters of the alphabet.

My friends at KinderCare Learning Centers and I are super excited about the idea of making learning fun for our littlest ones and nurturing a sense of joy and wonder in every child.  KinderCare Learning Centers are totally aligned with the main focus of teachmama.com from the start: encouraging simple, meaningful learning in the every day.

I’m thrilled to continue my partnership with the KinderCare Learning Centers team as they launch two of their newest locations here in the DC Metro area: Penn Quarter and Watergate East.  In fact, I am hosting a workshop at an event at the Watergate East location on July 21st – Sign up for the Explore + Learn Labs here! I would love to see you all there!

Here’s the skinny. . .

How to Teach Kids the ABCs — 5 Fun Ways:

Remember, there are about a million ways to cross the same bridge when it comes to teaching kids the ABCs, but my expert advice is as follows:

  • Before anything, you want to start with your child’s name. Focus on the first letter of his or her name and then work on the other letters.
  • Introduce other family members’ names: Mom, Dad, siblings’ and pets’ names.
  • Start with uppercase letters, and once most of those are mastered, introduce the lowercase letters.
  • After children can recognize the letters of names with some consistency, then start playing with the entire alphabet.
  • Most importantly, keep it light. Keep it fun!

How do you keep it fun? You play games, that’s how!

Try these:

1.) Alphabet Hunt

I shared all about the Alphabet Hunt in another post, but it’s definitely worth checking out because the Alphabet Hunt is an all-time fave for kids.

how to teach kids the ABCs: 5 fun ways | teachmama.com

Don’t waste another second. Check it out here and then come right back to read the rest.

2.) Water Paint the ABCs

Children love painting, don’t they? But parents aren’t always too fond of the mess.

So instead of painting with paints, how about painting with water?

how to teach kids the ABCs: 5 fun ways | teachmama.com

All you need is a little plastic container for water and a paintbrush. Then head outside and find some concrete–a sidewalk, a driveway, or a porch–to paint on.

Let your child wet the brush in the water and then “paint” a few squiggles on the ground. Then say, “Let’s see if you can paint a letter [name a letter] or a letter [name a second letter].”

Once your child paints one of the letters, do a little celebrating, and then ask him or her to paint another one.

Always give your child a choice; we want to set our kids up for success. And most likely, he or she will be able to ‘paint at least one of the letters you say.

Allowing our kids to play with water this way and to practice writing the letters of the alphabet is super for developing letter recognition and fine motor skills!

 

3.) ABC Hide & Seek

All you need for this game is a set of alphabet cards and your imagination.

You can create alphabet cards simply by writing each letter of the alphabet on an index card or small square of paper. Or you can print out a set of alphabet cards here.

To play ABC Hide & Seek, all you do is gather the alphabet cards and hide them around the room. Yes, hide them around the room!

Put one card under a pillow. Put another on the window sill. Have another card sticking out of a book.

Don’t make it too hard–you don’t want to lose a card!

But once they find the cards, they put them in ABC order on the floor or on the table. This may be difficult at first, but after a while, they’ll get the hang of it!

Not only will ABC Hide & Seek get our kids up and moving, but it will allow kids to hunt for little letter “treasures” around the room. It’s a win-win!

 

4.) Play ABC Tic Tac Toe

Playing Tic Tac Toe with the Xs and Os is so old-school and boring.

Now? We play this classic game with a new twist. We play with any letter of the alphabet that we want.

Let your child pick a letter, and then you pick a letter, and then start playing!

The object is to get three in a row; the first person to do so wins!

Tic Tac Toe is a great game to teach kids strategy, so not only will they learn the ABCs, they’ll learn a little critical thinking as well.

5.) ABC Beanbag I-Spy

Using the alphabet cards from ABC Hide & Seek, ABC Beanbag I-Spy combines rhyme and movement along with identifying the letters of the alphabet.

how to teach kids the ABCs: 5 fun ways | teachmama.com

The object is for the first player to cover 3-5 letters that the second player chooses. This game lets kids identify the letters of the alphabet and then drop a beanbag on top of each one.

The first player says, “I spy with my little eye. . . the letter [insert any letter]!”

how to teach kids the ABCs: 5 fun ways | teachmama.com

how to teach kids the ABCs: 5 fun ways | teachmama.com

The second player searches for the letter and then drops a beanbag on top of the card once it’s found. When doing so, the player says, “Goodbye letter [whatever it was] on the ground. I know you make the [insert sound] sound.”

For example, it might sound like this:

Player 1: I spy with my little eye. . . the letter S!

Player 2: [Searches for the letter and finds it then drops a beanbag on it.] Goodbye letter S on the ground. I know you make the ‘ssssssss’ sound. 

And that’s it–5 fun games to play with your kids to help them learn the super important letters of the alphabet! Which will you try first?

 

Remember, if you find yourself in the DC Metro area anytime soon, how about you unplug and do a little hunting around the Nation’s Capital?

KinderCare Education has created an awesome Little Explorers’ Guide for DC, and it highlights some of the must-see parts of our amazing city. What better way to unplug and spend time together as a family than by exploring one of the greatest cities in the US?

I’d love to hear what you think!

fyi: I’m thrilled to share this post as part of a partnership with the great people at KinderCare Learning Centers. Check out how we celebrated the new DC KinderCare locations in April on the DC Waterfront. 

Please join me for a workshop at an event at the Watergate East location on July 21st – Sign up for the Explore + Learn Labs here! I would love to see you all there!

how to teach kids the ABCs 5 fun ways teachmama.com

KinderCare Learning Centers make it their passion to nurture a sense of joy and wonder in every child, every day, at every one of their centers. As the nation’s leading private provider in accredited early childhood education, KinderCare Learning Centers are committed to delivering the highest-quality childcare and educational opportunities for families and the dedicated professionals who serve them. 

KinderCare Learning Centers are early childhood learning and care experts, guiding more than 1,300 community-based centers for children 6 weeks old through school age. To find out more, visit:

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inexpensive books for home library teachmaam.com
reading

where to find inexpensive books for your kids

by Teach Mama
written by Teach Mama

I’m so thankful that my mom is always looking for inexpensive books for my kids.

From the time my kids were born, she’s been on the hunt for great, new reads for Maddy, Owen, and Cora.  She searches for their favorite authors at her local library’s book sale each time it’s held.

She keeps an eye out for books at yard sales.

inexpensive books for home library teachmaam.com

And when she finds them, she sets them aside to bring to Maryland, or she keeps them at her house for when we come to visit.

It makes a difference. It really, truly does. Having more sets of eyes on the lookout for inexpensive books for your kids really helps to grow your home library quickly–and affordably!

Thanks to my mom–and the focus she put on books when I was a child–I, too, am always on the hunt for inexpensive books for my kids.

Last week on Snapchat I shared a few ways to score some inexpensive books for your child, and I’m rounding out the list here for you.

Here’s the skinny. . .

Where to Find Inexpensive Books for Your Kids:

Really, you know there’s no need for you to buy a million books to keep at home. The library is all you need to provide your kids with tons and tons of books, but it does help to have a few books on hand for your kids at home.

1. Host a Book Swap

Really, you guys. Book Swaps can be super easy and a ton of fun.

And? They’re a great way to grab a few more new-to-you books!

2. Look at the library for the (often hidden) ‘for sale’ rack.

Books are usually super inexpensive on this rack, and most libraries have them.

Look in the back or on the edges of the regular bookshelves. Then get your quarters ready!

3. Go to the book section of your Thrift Store.

Thrift Stores usually have a book section. And books go for pennies.

And most Thrift Stores have ‘bag days’ or buy one get one days, so do a little hometown hunting and start buying!

4. Join an online (or Facebook) yard sale groups.

Search ‘yard sale + [your town]’ on Facebook. You’ll be surprised to see that many towns and cities have local yard sale groups.

I know personally, there are about four Facebook yard sale groups for my town and surrounding areas. It’s kind of like Craigslist but safer, maybe, because you can see how each person is connected.

5. Check out these 5 online recommendations:


Cheers, and happy reading during this incredibly exciting journey!

 

__________________________________________

smart summer challenge teachmama.com join now

 

A few more literacy-related posts worth reading. . . (click on image to read!)
what to say when kids make reading mistakes teachmama.com.png
5 things to never say to emerging reader
literacy terms every parent must know
talk to kids about books
how to help kids choose just right books
Want a little more help with all things literacy?  
Follow Teach Mama’s board literacy on Pinterest.

 

 

fyi: Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Forever and always I recommend only products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”  For more information, please see teachmama media, llc. disclosure policy. 

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unplug to play and learn 4 quick and easy ideas teachmama kindercare 2
reading

unplug to play and learn: 4 quick and easy ideas

by Teach Mama
written by Teach Mama

Guess what? It’s time to have our kids unplug. Yep. Right now. Right this very minute.

Turn off the television, the tablet, the phone, the laptop, the whatever. Believe it or not, there’s a world of fun to be had when kids unplug to play and learn.

There’s no denying that we are raising kids in a digital age. Everywhere you turn, there’s a screen, a swipe, a beep, or a buzz.

 

unplug to play and learn 4 quick and easy ideas teachmama kindercare 2

That means that it’s super important that we, as parents, do what we can to make sure that our kids are not staring at a screen 24/7.

You may be surprised at how much fun your kids–and you!–have during unplugged time together.

Speaking of fun, I am thrilled to announce my partnership with KinderCare Learning Centers – it’s a perfect match! KinderCare Learning Centers are totally aligned with the main focus of teachmama.com from the start: encouraging simple, meaningful learning in the every day.

KinderCare Education makes it their passion to nurture a sense of joy and wonder in every child, every day, at every one of their centers, and I love it.

This spring, I was invited to do a little celebrating with the KinderCare Learning Centers team here in DC as they launched one of their newest locations. It was a blast! And there’s another new center opening at Watergate East in July!

I was able to celebrate reading, talk to parents about how to bring some early literacy learning home, and share some great books with the children. Check out some highlights from the event here, and stay tuned for more on this exciting partnership.

Here’s the skinny. . .

Unplug to Play and Learn — 4 Quick and Easy Ideas 

1.)  Silly Songs

As a primary grade reading teacher, I’m always amazed at how many of my students do not know traditional nursery rhymes and staple songs of childhood. These songs are filled with rhyme, rhythm, and sounds that help our little ones learn.

And now there are even some modern takes on traditional nursery rhymes which are super silly and fun for kids. Try Mary Had a Little Jam, by Bruce Lansky for a start.

 

Instead of putting on the radio or DVD player next time you’re in the car, consider singing some silly songs!

unplug to play and learn: 4 quick and easy ideas

Need a refresher? Start with these oldies but goodies:

  • The Alphabet Song
  • Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star
  • Baa, Baa Black Sheep
  • Frere Jacques
  • The Farmer in the Dell
  • B-I-N-G-O

Then try singing some of these super silly songs with your littles:

  • Hickory, Dickory Crash!
  • Baby Shark
  • This is the Way We. . . 
  • If You’re Happy and You Know It
  • any of the Wee Sing Silly Songs or these silly songs for kids

Singing songs with your kids helps them develop super-important listening skills that will actually help them with reading. Believe me–it’s true!

2.) ABC Hunt

Get your little one searching for those super-important letters of the alphabet with the ABC Hunt!

  • You can play with the letters of the alphabet any time, anywhere, very simply by saying to your child: Let’s use our super-strong eyes to find your letter–the letter ‘L’ (the first letter of his or her name). Who will be the first one to find this important letter? 
  • Then you point out all of the times you see that letter on signs, on books, on menus, you name it.

unplug to play and learn: 4 quick and easy ideas teachmama.com kindercare

unplug to play and learn: 4 quick and easy ideas teachmama.com kindercare

unplug to play and learn: 4 quick and easy ideas teachmama.com kindercare

 

Or, if you have time and a pen and paper (or if you want to print out our ABC Hunt below!), you can get a little fancier with your ABC Hunt.

  • Simply print out the ABC Hunt and grab a pencil or a crayon or some small chart stickers (those teeny, round ones!), and you’re good to go.
  • Say to your child, Today we are going on an ABC Hunt to see if we can find every, single letter of the alphabet. When we find one of these letters, we’ll put a sticker in the box below it. Let’s see how many we can find!
  • Then get ready to have some fun!

It’s important that we set our kids up for success with games like this, to give them choices, and to keep things light and fun!

3.) Big Box

Next time an order arrives at your door from an online shopping spree, instead of recycling that big box, keep it and let your child play with it.

unplug to play and learn: 4 quick and easy ideas teachmama.com kindercare

unplug to play and learn: 4 quick and easy ideas teachmama.com kindercare

Especially if you’re lucky enough to get a huge appliance box, just let your little one have it. Many children have tons of ideas about how to make that box their own, but if your child needs a nudge, ask him or her:

  • What can you do with this racecar?
  • Where can you go with this rocket ship?
  • What kinds of treasure can you haul in this treasure box?
  • Where will this ocean liner take you?

Your child’s imagination will be stretched with this activity, and if you have paints or markers to add to the fun, don’t be afraid to bring ’em out. Sometimes, all you need to do is get your child started by drawing a door or a window or a steering wheel on the box, and your child will soar.

And if it’s a smaller box, don’t sweat it! You can still have a boatload of fun with a small-sized box.

unplug to play and learn: 4 quick and easy ideas teachmama.com kindercare

unplug to play and learn: 4 quick and easy ideas teachmama.com kindercare

Play Guess What? with a smaller box and put your child’s senses to work.

Here’s how:

  1. Open the lid of the box so you can easily place an object inside.
  2. Cut a small opening on one side of the box, big enough to fit your child’s hand inside. The opening can be a flap that opens and closes, or it can be a circle like on a birdhouse.
  3. Place an object inside the box–but don’t let your child see it!–and close the lid.
  4. Ask your child: Guess What it is? and have him use his senses to feel the object and guess what it is!

Not sure what to put inside the box? Consider: a sock, a spoon, a toothbrush, a toy car, a rubber band, a hairbrush, a tissue, a watch. The possibilities are endless, and your child will really be using his brain to figure out this mystery object!

And if you want a few more ideas for using a big cardboard box in fun and creative ways, check out this post from KinderCare Learning Centers: A Car! A Boat! A Robot! 8 Great Things to Make with a Cardboard Box.

4.) Fine Motor Fun!

Grab a few fuzzy sticks (we called them pipe cleaners, but now they’re ‘fuzzy sticks’!) and a small bunch of Cheerios, Fruit Loops, or beads, and let your child at it.

unplug to play and learn: 4 quick and easy ideas teachmama.com kindercare

unplug to play and learn: 4 quick and easy ideas teachmama.com kindercare

You don’t even have to say anything, and your child will know what to do. 

As your child places the items on the fuzzy stick, you can:

  • count the items on the stick;
  • talk about the colors of the items on the stick;
  • see if the child can create patterns on the stick;
  • encourage the child to bend and twist the stick. . .

If you don’t have a fuzzy stick, consider using a string, a shoelace, or a piece of dry spaghetti. Yes, dry spaghetti works–just make sure your child doesn’t try to eat it!

These simple, unplugged, activities encourage fine motor muscle development. Even though that sounds fancy, it just means that those important, tiny muscles in the child’s hands and fingers will be strengthened by these movements.

The counting, patterns, and color conversations are all helping to develop important foundational skills in fun ways.

You got this, friend.

BONUS – Unplug and explore Washington, DC!

unplug to play and learn: 4 quick and easy ideas teachmama.com kindercare

And hey—if you find yourself in the DC Metro area anytime soon, how about you unplug and do a little exploring around the Nation’s Capital?

KinderCare Education has created an awesome Little Explorers’ Guide for DC, and it highlights some of the must-see parts of our amazing city. What better way to unplug and spend time together as a family than by exploring one of the greatest cities in the US?

I’d love to hear what you think! 

Which activity do you think you’ll begin with?

unplug to play and learn 4 quick and easy ideas teachmama kindercare

fyi: I’m thrilled to share this post as part of a partnership with the great people at KinderCare Learning Centers. Check out how we celebrated the new DC KinderCare locations in April on the DC Waterfront. 

KinderCare Learning Centers make it their passion to nurture a sense of joy and wonder in every child, every day, at every one of their centers. As the nation’s leading private provider in accredited early childhood education, KinderCare Learning Centers are committed to delivering the highest-quality childcare and educational opportunities for families and the dedicated professionals who serve them. 

KinderCare Learning Centers are early childhood learning and care experts, guiding more than 1,300 community-based centers for children 6 weeks old through school age. To find out more, visit:

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