Room Mom 101

Fun with Geometry

2012-01-27T19:07:00.000-08:00

What a CrAzY ~~week~~ month it has been so far! (Notice the lack of posts!) This week along with the 100th day of school, I had my yearly principal evaluation. My principal said he wanted to sit in on 2 - 30 minute lessons, one for math and one for literacy. I always try to throw some kind of integrated activity into the mix, whether it be math with art, writing with art, writing with math, etc. You get the idea. Anyway, I thought I would share with you what it was I chose to do.
Lesson 1 (Math)
In the chapter of math, which we just finished, we have been learning about 2-D and 3-D shapes so I wanted to do a lesson that would reinforce what we have been learning about. To start out, I read the story The Greedy Triangle.

In case you are unfamiliar with this story, it's about a triangle who becomes dissatisfied with his shape and asks to be transformed into another shape. He goes from being a triangle to a quadrilateral, from quadrilateral to pentagon, from pentagon to hexagon and so on until he becomes a decagon (10 sided figure). Eventually he realizes that he was most happy being himself, the triangle. Because I knew that some of the words would be unfamiliar to my students, I made this anchor chart to look at before reading the story.

We discussed how a quadrilateral is any 2-D shape with 4 sides and drew a few as examples.
After reading the story I told the kids that I was going to give them about 10 minutes to create a snowflake using only the 5 die cut shapes provided. They could use a triangle, hexagon, square, rhombus (a fancy word for diamond), and a trapezoid to complete their snowflakes. (I found the idea on A Place Called Kindergarten). I told them they had to be as unique about aking their snowflakes as real snowflakes are and that they needed to fill up the whole 8 x 8 blue construction paper square. The kids did a great job at not only creating their snowflakes, but also being UNIQUE!

Once they completed their snowflakes, I gave each student a chart where they filled out how many of each shape they used. We then graphed the shapes used by the class to determine which shape was used the most and which one was used the least. The kids had fun with this activity and it was a good variation from using only the math book all the time!!
Here are a few more shapes ideas which could be used for a math lesson:

3-D shape poem from Lil' Country Kindergarten

Why not teach your studnets about 3-D shapes but taking a snack break!

Idea from Busy Bees

Mrs. Plant's Press also had some super ideas for teaching her kindergarteners about 3-D shapes! She also suggested using food to teach, but I love her anchor chart!

Make a shape collage like the one found at Miss Renee's Kindergarten Pad.

FREE shape poems from TpT! Thanks Skipper's Jungle!

A shape flip book foldable by Kindergarten Crayons.

100th Day of School

2012-01-26T17:40:00.000-08:00

If you are an elementary teacher, primarily grades K-2, you know just how important the 100th day of school is! In my classroom we keep track on a 100's chart how many days we have been in school, including adding a popsicle stick to the ones pocket and then bundling at each 10. Trust me, my kids KNOW when the 100th day of school is!! That crazy day just happened to fall yesterday and can I just say how sad I am. The reason you ask? I thought I was totally prepared with my camera for some good pictures for our class end of the year video, but in truth my camera's memory stick was not in my camera and would not work for me. :( Here are 2 pictures that I snapped today of projects that were left in the classroom...
One project was to make a classbook of what the kids would buy if they had $100. Some of the answers included a horse, a limousine, a truck, and a fancy place to live, but this student must be thinking more of the future!

We made these hats (which now I can't remember where they were found. Let me know if you know.)

The headband was a strip of 2 x 18 construction paper. Before stapling the hat together, the kids had to write to 100 using tally marks. Surprisingly, they thought it was really fun math!

If you are in need of a hat design, here is a link to a 100th day of school crown from The Virtual Vine.

Ok so this is where you use your imagination to visualize the other activities. For a snack, I surprised the kids when they came back in from recess with a "100" on their desks made from a wafer cookie and 2 donut holes.

We also played this math game from Making Learning Fun. I shrunk the 2 pages down so they fit side by side on one paper and had the kids play the game in partners. (Click the link above for directions on how to play.)

The kids were each asked to bring in 100 items that fit inside of a paper lunch sack I provided. On the front of the bag I had stapled a paper explaining what were doing, but basically the kids were to write 3 clues of what was in the sack so we could guess. Once everyone had a turn, we shared all the items so the kids could take home a piece of everyone's collection. I think this was my students' favorite activity! Yesterday was such a fun day, and one that my students had been looking forward to for...well...100 days!

If the 100th day of school is equally important to you or your students, here are a few ideas I have come across:
* Make a classbook using one of the following ideas:
I would like to have 100 _________ , but I would not like to have 100 __________ .
If I had $100, I would buy ___________ .
In 100 days of school, I have learned how to __________ .
* Have the students fill out a blank 100's chart...good assessment tool too!
* Do 100 math problems.
* Have the students make posters using 100 items. Here are a few I came across...

100 sugar cubes makes an igloo.

100 gumballs

OR you could use this FREE gumball printable from Plum Adorable.

100 Flowers (Idea from Circle of Quiet)

Here's an easy one you could put together at the last minute...10 hand prints!

Looking for a super cute bulletin art project? This one was put together by Mrs. Williamson in Room 36.

Still need more ideas? Check out my 100th Day of School board on Pinterest. Hope you have a happy and hectic 100th day of school too!

January Bulletin Board

2012-01-15T21:28:00.000-08:00

Even though January is half way through, you can still use this idea for a few more weeks, or store it away for next year. One thing about me, is that I love scrapbooking, being crafty and doing art (with my students), but changing out the bulletin board may be one of my LEAST favorite parts of teaching. I love looking at what others do in class and display on their bulletin boards, but with everything else there is to do as a teacher, I feel it falls to the back burner sometimes. So, with that in mind, I like to keep the ideas simple and preferably last for a month or longer. In fact, if you look at the background for my bulletin boards, you may even notice to same butcher paper ALL YEAR LONG! lol At least I am saving paper right!?!

I actually saw this art idea on where else, but Pinterest! (The idea came from Oopsey Daisy.) When I saw it, I knew I wanted to try it!

First we read the book Snowmen At Night by Mark Buehner (great book by the way!) I had a parent volunteer in class that day to help, so I decided it would be a perfect day for a potentially messy art project. After reading the story, I called about 5 students over to my kidney table at a time to make their snowmen. The other students stayed at their seats cutting their "extras" out, such as scarf, carrot nose, etc. out of scrap paper. Truthfully, had I had any scrap fabric on hand at the time, we would have used that for the scarfs. The kids didn't seem to notice or mind though. I had my parent volunteer walk around the students to ask what their snowman did at night. She then wrote their responses on a post it note so they could copy it onto their already printed out paper. (Their paper said: "My snowman _____________ at night.")

I must say that I enjoyed this activity and can see myself using it again in the future, however the next time around I would like to involve more writing. I think that by mid-year my students could have written a story to go along with their snowman, but like I said that will have to wait until next year.

The snowmen were created by mixing approximately equal parts of shaving cream to Elmer's glue. The students painted their snowman with their choice of a popsicle stick or their fingers onto a 8 x 8 piece of blue construction paper. Before their snowman dried, they attached googly eyes, carrot nose and anything else they wanted to add. Once the snowmen were dried, we backed them with a 8 1/2 x 8 1/2 sheet of white cardstock for more support. I couldn't believe how soft and fluffy looking the snowmen dried! The hardest part has been keeping the students from touching their masterpieces as they have been on display in the hall! The kids were definitely proud of their projects!

Here are a few up close shots:

"My snowman delivers presents at night."

"My snowman goes sledding at night."

"My snowman feeds my horse at night."

Working on the House

2011-12-27T20:43:00.000-08:00

Ok so I only was able to post 22 out of the 25 promised Christmas ideas. Perhaps I will post 3 LATE Christmas ideas later this week just to say I was able to complete my goal! :) As it turned out, our family had a wonderful Christmas and I am enjoying being at home in my PJ's all week with no work. We had family come to visit and parties to attend, but the BEST news of all was that our 3 year project of finishing our basement was completed!! Life has been busy trying to get everything put away and in the proper place. So even though there is no work for me this week, there is still plenty of work to do around the house!

DIY Wooden Christmas Presents

2011-12-23T15:43:00.000-08:00

Christmas Idea #22 - DIY Wooden Christmas Presents

I am really liking these presents made from blocks of wood and scrapbook paper. All you would need to do is Modge Podge scrapbook paper cut to size (edges inked if you you like that look...I do!) and tie some ribbon or tulle into a bow on top. Simple decoration for your home or to give to someone as a gift.


Source: Spotted Canary

Speaking of crafts, I saw this JUMBO JOY sign on Pinterest (without a link) and love the way it looks. Simple and cute. I'm not sure I would want to store something as big as that for the other 11 months of the year. Maybe a small version would work instead.

Polar Express Party

2011-12-21T20:48:00.000-08:00

Christmas Idea # 21 - Polar Express Party

Can't you imagine a Polar Express party with eveyryone nice and comfy in their pajamas! her This idea could work for either a classroom party or family party. Obviously you could include the book (read by Santa would be neat) or watch the movie, but here are a few more suggestions:
Of course, you would have to provide hot chocolate at this party and what better way than in a crock pot!?! Mrs. Happy Homemaker has just that!

If this is an idea for school, how about using this invitation from Erica Bohrer's First Grade

or make this candy train treat:

She also has a Venn Diagram where your students can compare and contrast the book from the movie. All this for FREE. Love it!!

The Dowell Family posted about their Polar Express party at school. Including frosting sugar cookies, a visit from Santa, musical chairs and a trip inside of a train (made by the teacher) to listen to the story and drink hot chocolate. Incredible!
You could make a cake train (or gingerbread, cookie, whatever works for you) like Alpine Berry did.

Oopsey Daisy shows you how to make a more simple train using graham crackers and frosting

or even this little candy train that might work as a craft or party favor.

Mrs. Johnson's First Grade has a FREE build a train download on her blog. Hop on over to grab it!

I like the train ornament that Bishop's Blackboard did for her students.

First Grade is Fantabulous did a recent post on what they did at her school and she has included some great links to other resources.

Last Minute Teacher/Neighbor Gift Ideas

2011-12-20T10:35:00.000-08:00

Christmas Idea # 20 - Last Minute Teacher/Neighbor Gift Ideas

Have a Holly JOLLY Christmas from Pioneer Party

I have seen Twizzlers given with a tag attached saying "TWIZ the season!", but here is another saying you could use: "Twiz the night before Christmas, and all through the house, they were munching on Twizzlers with very happy mouths!"

Source: Brassy Apple

May your days be merry and "SPRITE!"

From One of A Kind Gift Ideas:

Oven mitt filled with spaghetti and sauce:

We know how hectic the Holidays can be with all the Christmas rush and fuss,

So relax a bit—Open this MITT, and have some Spaghetti on us!!

I'm totally diggin' this snowman Jiffy pop gift card holder from The Stamp Doc.

Christmas Treats To Make For A School Party

2011-12-19T08:59:00.000-08:00

Last night I went to bed late and didn't have time to post anything, so I am combining post 18 & 19 today. On top of everything else crazy that happens in December, our family is trying to finish our basement before Christmas. Crazy? Yes, but it's going to be totally worth it!

Christmas Idea # 18 - Decorate Snowman Sugar Cookies like Betty Crocker!

When I saw these snowman sugar cookies I thought of how fun they would be to make for a classroom Christmas party. Items needed: sugar cookies, frosting (white), red string licorice and an assortment of candy. A few ideas might include life savers, mini M&Ms, candy corn (nose), runts, etc.

Christmas Idea # 19 - Christmas Tree From An Icecream Cone

Source: The Frugal Girls

This activity is one that I have used many times. I have used this for a family Christmas party, classroom party and this year we used it in our class when we studied Germany for Christmas Around the World. Take a sugar cone turned upside down and spread green frosting around. Cover your tree with "ornaments" by using mini M&M's, string licorice, sprinkles and anything else you think might be fun!

Fun with Santa!

2011-12-17T20:41:00.000-08:00

Christmas Idea # 17 - Santa fun with your kids!

Earlier this week I had my 2 younger kids e-mail their Christmas wish lists to Santa. Imagine how excited they were to not only get an email back, but to also watch a video of what Santa was doing! They were both told they are on the nice list, but that he would be checking in to see if that stayed true. Good...that means I still have some leverage. If you want to have your children e-mail Santa and even view some pictures of his house, the reindeer barn and more, check it out! Oh and by the way, this site is also so fun to check on Christmas Eve when you can view the Santa tracker to see where's he's been and how long until he reaches your house!!

Seeing is believing right?!? How about a picture that captures Santa leaving gifts at YOUR house? My kids would flip if they saw this!! Want to know how to create your own? Check out Capture the Magic to learn how.

Reindeer Ideas (part 2)

2011-12-16T11:02:00.000-08:00

Christmas Idea #16 - Reindeer Ideas (part 2)

Peanut Butter Rudolph Reindeer cookies from Ladies Home Journal

How about these Reindeer made from Root Beer bottles? Give them out as the 6 pack or singly to a friend. Crafty Sisters shows you how!

To make a paper plate reindeer card holder from Danielle's Place check out the directions below:

What you will need: Three dinner-sized paper plates, paint, plastic forks, red pompom, paper, and glue.
How to make:
1. To make the body place two paper plates together, top to top. Cut of the top quarter of the plates to make a card holder, then glue the plates together as shown.
2. To make the head fold a paper plate almost in half as shown in the picture to the right.
3. Measure 3 3/4" in from the sides of the folded edge of the paper plate. Fold the sides back 3 3/4" to form the head shape as shown at the left. Glue or staple the sides together on the back.
4. Glue the head to the body as shown.
5. Cut out leg, tail, and ear shapes from brown construction paper and glue them to the body and head. Patterns for the legs, tail, and ears are available to members only.
6. To make the antlers cut two plastic forks in half and glue each half fork to a whole fork as shown in the picture. Glue them to the back of the head.
7. Paint the paper plates and antlers. Glue on a red pompom for the nose.
8. Attach a string or strong magnet to the back of the reindeer to hang it up. Place your Christmas cards in the holder.
Remember the magic reindeer food I blogged about yesterday...how about using this for the packaging?

A reindeer sandwich from Be Different Act Normal

"Thanks for making my future BRIGHT!" This would be super cute for a teacher. Put some treats, gift certificate, school supplies, etc. inside and you're all set!

Source: Lisa Storm

And finally...For school, I am contemplating on buying this "reindeer games" TpT pack from First Grader at Last. Why you ask? Because this "If you give a reindeer some root beer" is seriously tugging on my heart. How cute is this guy? Think of the fun writing/art activity you could incorporate with him.

Reindeer Ideas (part 1)

2011-12-15T21:03:00.000-08:00

Christmas Idea #15 - Reindeer Ideas (part 1)

I posted about a game that could be used for holiday parties called Don't Eat Pete! Well here's the same game called Don't Eat the Reindeer by Prepared Not Scared.

Count on Martha to turn gingerbread cookies upside down to create reindeer!

From The Idea Room, think of how fun it would be to make, eat and give away these cute reindeer cookies. For a younger grade, I'm thinking these would be fun to make for your Christmas party! Oh and chocolate and peanut butter...have I mentioned my obsession before?!?

Reindeer cupcakes from Hoosier Homemade:

OR these reindeer cupcakes from With Sprinkles On Top.

There's a few to get you started. Don't want to overload you all in one day, so more to follow tomorrow...

Simple and Cute Christmas Gifts

2011-12-14T10:36:00.000-08:00

Christmas Idea #14 - Simple and cute Christmas gifts
Right now I am feeling a little like this:

Anyone else struggling to keep kids learning? I swear, my brain and theirs are already checked out for Christmas break! I * WILL* MAKE* IT!
Anyway....here are a few simple gifts that could be given to friends, students, teachers, or neighbors.

Elf Kisses from Kim's Kandy Kreations (follow the link to get the poem ready to print!)

The poem reads: Elf Kisses
With little elf eyes watching you,
There's not a lot that Santa misses.
So to help you be good today,
Here's a bunch of sweet elf kisses.

The following came from Stampin' Red.
How about Elf pillows?

"Snowman Poop" (mini marshmallows) with a poem that reads: "You've been naughty this year so here's the scoop, all you get for Christmas is this snowman poop!

"Reindeer Noses" with a poem that reads: "I wanted the perfect gift for you, but couldn't decide just what to do! I almost sent you a dozen roses-instead here's a bag of reindeer noses!"

OR Reindeer Poop (Whoppers or Raisinets)

Magic Reindeer Food (sprinkle on your yard on Christmas eve...my kids would love it!)

Source: Creations By Miriam

Magic Reindeer Food (oats with glitter)

Just sprinkle on the lawn at night.
The moon will make it sparkle bright.
As Santa's reindeer fly and roam,
This treat will guide them to your home.

More Christmas Games for Your Party!

2011-12-13T11:29:00.000-08:00

Christmas Idea #13 - More Christmas Games For Your Party!

White Elephant Gift Exchange. If you have ever been part of one you know just how much fun these can be! We recently had a white elephant gift exchange at our work Christmas party. The invitation said "G" rated, and yet somehow I ended up taking home one of the only gag gifts...a 50DDD bra! You'd have to know, but that is so like me to end up with the gift like that! Before sending out the invitations for you party, you may want to include if there is a price limit (ours was $5 or less) and decide if it matters if the items being gifted should be funny, re-gift items, useful items, etc. (Just a suggestion!) Also, choose how you want to gifts to be passed out....Christmas With the Right Family might be just what you need to get things moving!

A new game I haven't heard of before, but sounds like a complete blast is this paper plate game.

Have everyone get a {sturdy} paper plate and place it on their head. Using a marker or pen each person is to draw what they are instructed to without looking. Remember *NO peeking!* Once everything has been drawn, you can reveal your masterpiece to everyone around you. I am sure this is sure to cause a few laughs! Add up your points based on the rubric below to determine the winner. You may want to give the winner some kind of prize too!

Here is what to draw:

1. Draw a line for a floor.
2. Draw a Christmas Tree. Add decorations if you feel so inclined.
3. Draw a star on top of your tree.
4. Draw a fireplace with a mantel next to the tree.
5. Draw a stocking hanging from the mantel of your fireplace.
6. Draw a present below the tree.

Rubric for the Plate Game:

1. 2 points if the tree touches the floor.
2. 2 points if your stocking is touching your mantel.
3. 1 point if your star touches your tree.
4. 1 point if your star is above your tree.
5. 1 point for every Christmas ornament ball that is ON your tree, etc.
6. 1 point if your fireplace doesn’t touch the tree (it’s a fire hazard!).
7. 1 point if you actually drew something decorative on your stocking (or something cute, like a tiny kitten peeking out).
8. 2 points if your present is under your tree.

The paper plate game and Christmas with the Right Family are from Happy Home Fairy. Thanks for sharing!

Salty and Sweet Christmas Treat

2011-12-12T19:04:00.000-08:00

Christmas Idea #12 - Salty and Sweet Christmas Treat

Source: House on Hilltop

Need something yummy and fast for a Christmas treat? Maybe you need to take something to a party, work, or neighbors. Whoever or whatever, there is A LOT of baking that goes on in December and here is one quick recipe to help you out.

To make these, here's what you'll need:
Hersey Kisses
Pretzels (round kind)
{red & green} M&M's

Preheat your oven to 225 degrees. Spread the round pretzels on a cookie sheet so that they lie flat. Fill the center of each pretzel with a Hershey Kiss. Now, place the cookie sheet into your oven. Allow the kisses to melt. Don’t leave the room. This really takes only 3 or 4 minutes. Maybe less, depending on your oven. Take them out as soon as the kisses are melted, but still hold their shape. If you leave them in too long, they will dry out and become hard. Now, press one M&M into each kiss. Push them around a little so that chocolate touches all of the edges of the pretzels. Allow the chocolate to set up and enjoy.

So You're On the Naughty List?!?

2011-12-11T16:55:00.000-08:00

Christmas Idea #11 - Coal for the Naughty

Are you finding yourself on the naughty or nice list this year? If you or someone you know is on the naughty list, or if you just like a good gag gift here is some coal that would go nicely in someone's stocking.

Big Red Kitchen made these "coal" rice krispie balls using black icing coloring. To see her recipe and directions, visit her blog.

Eighteen 25 saw the same idea (above) and created coal with cute packing made from plastic paint cans from a craft store or packaged in a gift bag. If you visit their blog, they have also included the lump of coal tag you see in the picture. Maybe being on the naughty list isn't so bad after all!

The 12 Days of Christmas

2011-12-10T16:31:00.000-08:00

Christmas Idea #10 - The 12 Days of Christmas...start on December 13th!

I am heading shopping...one last time {hopefully} to buy 12 items that would work for the 12 days of Christmas. Don't worry, you still have a few days left to pull this together! This idea would be great to give as a close neighbor/friend gift or to use with your own family, like I am planning to do. Head on over to The Craft Patch to print out your Christmas stories and to see what items you will need.

FuN Christmas Breakfast Ideas

2011-12-09T10:14:00.000-08:00

Christmas Idea #9 - FuN Christmas Breakfast Ideas

Mini Cinnamon Buns on a stick from Icecream Before Dinner. Not only do these look delicious, but think of how much fun the kids would have eating these off a stick!!

How about a Santa pancake from Blue Skies Ahead!?! Add some chocolate chips for the eyes, whipped cream for the beard and hat and strawberries.

More of a waffle fan? Rutherford Family Happenings made a Christmas tree using bacon for the trunk, berries for ornaments and cut up pineapple for the star on top. Don't forget to use green food coloring to turn your waffles more tree like! :)
Want to try your luck at a reindeer? Kitchen Fun With My 3 Sons created this pancake masterpiece:

Happy Eating!

Santa's Magic Key

2011-12-08T15:02:00.000-08:00

Christmas Idea #8 - Santa's Magic Key

This idea comes from The Picadilly Post, and even though I have seen the idea before, the poem to go with the key, I hadn't.
Dear Santa, This magic key works just for you, Please open the door and come on through. Thank you for coming to our house tonight. We are celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. Thank you Santa for the gifts you bring. Thank you Lord for everything.
This would make a cute neighbor gift or to hang on the tree for your own family! Michelle mentioned in her post that she found the key at Michael's for $1.50 (in the dollar bins), in case you're wondering where to find a key like the one shown.

Stocking Holders

2011-12-07T10:31:00.000-08:00

Christmas Idea #7 - Stocking Hangers

Want to find out how to make these cute and totally easy stocking hangers? Head over to Crap I've Made to find out how.

Easy Christmas Tree Display

2011-12-06T10:35:00.000-08:00

Christmas Idea #6 - Easy Christmas Tree Display
Need a simple way to decorate the front yard this Christmas season, without the hastle of climbing on the roof in the freezing cold to hang some light icicles!?! That's right, I am sure I am saving a few marriages with this idea. Ta-Da!

Looks great right? Well here's the secret. Head to Home Depot/Lowes and pick up a tomato cage. You know...one of these...turned the other way around...

Wrap it in white lights, and you'll have yourself a Christmas tree.

(Idea from NE Design Build)

If you need something similar to display by the front door or on the porch, why not make your own Christmas topiary? Using the same tomato cage from above, wrap it in garland and lights to create this expensive look for a lot less!

Source: Lucy Designs

Honestly, these ideas just may be my favorite finds this year! Totally loving them both!!

Creative Ways to Give Money at Christmas

2011-12-05T10:56:00.000-08:00

Christmas Idea #5 - It's All About the Money...
Money is always a hit, no matter the age! That's why Christmas Idea #5 involves creative ways to give money as a Christmas gift. This is the perfect gift for a picky teenager or person who already has everything!
How about a money tree from Then She Made.

or this money tree from Artsy Chaos:

How about this bag of money with poem? Talk about cute!!

Gingerbread men with yummy icing,

are oh so good and extremely enticing.

I set out to make you a dozen or two,

but time ran out, so now what to do?

So instead of the cookies, I tied with a bow,

your own personal serving of holiday dough.

A box of chocolate? Oh wait...more money! This would make a great Valentine's or Christmas gift!

Source: Life As Mom

Martha Stewart does it right by wrapping this quarter rolls to look like candy. A perfect stocking stuffer!

Classroom Christmas Party

2011-12-04T15:22:00.000-08:00

Christmas Idea #4 - Classroom Christmas Party
The Organized Classroom Blog recently wrote a great article about hosting a winter/Christmas classroom party. For tips, ideas and games, you must head over to her blog! Here are a few highlights...

Snow Globe Game (printable game)
Pass the Hot Chocolate (no picture to show for this idea.)
Winter Snow Bingo (printable game)

Build A Snowman Relay Race

Want some more GREAT party ideas? Check out Mrs. Bainbridge's Class to download a FREE Christmas party idea book (8 pages) full of games, treats, activities and more! Such a great resource to print out and keep for the future!!

Minute To Win It - Christmas Party Games

2011-12-03T09:01:00.000-08:00

Christmas Idea #3 - Minute To Win It Christmas games for a party.

You might be feeling a little stressed or overwhelmed if you are a room mom and are in charge of coming up with a holiday party for 20-30 children. If you are looking for ideas for a work party or family Christmas party, I have you covered.

For any age, why not try a few "Minute to Win It" type of games!?! If you have never watched the hit NBC television show, allow me to catch you up on what you may have missed. You will work in 2 teams (mainly because a little competition is so much more fun!) to complete tasks using items you probably already have around your house. They may seem easy, but don't be fooled! Besides you only have 1 MINUTE to complete the task! YIKES! Our family played a few of these games at our Christmas eve party last year and even the grandparents were getting in on the fun! Here are a few ideas to use:

NOSE DIVE -

Items Needed:
Vaseline (Petroleum jelly)
Cotton Balls
Bowl

Directions:
Choose one player from each team to take a turn. Have the player put a dab of Vaseline on the tip of their nose. Without using any other body part (other than the nose), have the player move the cotton balls one at a time from one end of the table to a bowl at the other end of the table. The player who can move the most cotton balls into the bowl within the minute will be awarded the point.

FACE THE GINGERBREAD MAN -

Items Needed:
cookies (in this case, gingerbread)

Directions:
Using only the face, players must move the cookie from their forehead to the mouth. The team who can move the most cookies in 1 minute will receive a point.

SNOWBALL FIGHT -
Items Needed:
White paper for each player or team.

Place a dividing line in the middle of the room. Players or teams will need to wad up the white paper and have a snowball fight. The player or team who has the least number of “snowballs” on their side after one minute is the winner.

MARSHMALLOW TOSS -
Items Needed:
One wreath,
Large Bag of marshmallows
One bucket for each player.

Directions:
Have one person hold the wreath to their side and place the bucket behind the wreath. Players will have one minute to throw marshmallows through the wreath into the bucket. The player with the most marshmallows in the bucket after one minute is the winner!

MERRY FISHMAS -

Items Needed:

30cm plastic pole (think the thickness of say a straw) with a hook on the end.
15 cm candy cane which is hung from the bottom of the candy cane (ie; upside down) and securely attached to the end of the pole by fishing line.
4 small candy canes

Players must use Candy Canes as fishing hooks and hook four candy canes on top of each other. Think Barrel of Monkeys.

THE NUT STACKER-

Items Needed:
Candy cane
7 larger sized nuts...as in nuts and bolts (Check the size to make sure a candy cane could fit through the hole)

Directions:
Hold the candy cane in one hand by the hook. Using the straight end of the candy cane (ONLY), pick up the nuts and place them one on top of another as high as you can. The goal is to reach 7 nuts high, although our family record was 5 before the tower of nuts fell over.

Other ideas might include:
*Who can eat a donut tied to a string using only their mouth in 1 minute?
*Who can blow the most bubbles (using bubble gum) in 1 minute?
*Who can wrap the most presents in 1 minute?
*Who can unwrap a present using only spoons in 1 minute?

To see a few of these games in action and for a few more ideas check out The Mason's Blog.

Christmas Gifts for the Neighbors

2011-12-02T10:39:00.000-08:00

Since you might need a start to getting all your gifts ready for the month, here are a few ideas to kick things off.

Christmas Idea #2: Gifts for the neighbors...more to come...
Try a package of pasta (any kind will do) with a tag saying "Have a PASTA-tively Merry Christmas!"

Source: Some of This & Some of That

A jug of apple cider with the tag (already made for ya) saying "We couldn't de-CIDER if you have been naughty or nice, so you're just getting some cider and spice.

Source: No Fuss Fabulous

This idea looks like it may take a little more time, but if you are feeling a little crafty this year and have the time to spare, then you might just enjoy this clever snowman kit idea. Don't worry the tutorial is there too...check go to The Fickle Pickle to read more...

Oh and I like this poem to go with the kit found on One of A Kind...

I am a little snowman. I am so fat and round.

I started from a snowflake that fell upon the ground.

I have black coal for my eyes, a great big scarf of red.

I have a carrot for a nose, a hat upon my head.

I have some buttons on my vest, and for each hand a glove.

I have a smile for all who pass, because I was made with love.

"Wishing you a holiday season full of peace, joy and ~~hope~~ soap!" from Crap I've Made.

A (child proof) nativity set that children could play with and act out!

(Idea from I Am Momma Hear Me Roar)

Finally in this post, One of Kind suggests the following: Tie a tag to a box of Ding Dongs and Ho Ho's saying "Ho! Ho! Ho! Merry Christmas from the Ding Dongs next door."

Easy DIY Christmas Countdown

2011-12-01T10:31:00.000-08:00

Even though I had promised my readers 31 fabulous Halloween ideas and fell short by a few, this time I am coming through with 25 Christmas ideas. Some ideas I have planned to feature will be ideas to use with your family, in a classroom, for a party and even gift ideas for neighbors, teachers and more. How do you know you can trust me on this one? Because I am already working ahead and have the posts saved and ready to share as the days arrive. This has to be a no-fail way right?!?

Christmas Idea #1 - Christmas Countdown

I realize there are a lot fewer days now until Christmas (from what you see in the picture above), but you get the idea. This is such a simple and inexpensive craft idea to get you ready for Christmas. Head on over to Life {Sweet} Life to download your choice of the Christmas countdown. You can choose to either print it from home or send it to a photo center. Stick the countdown behind a picture frame and using a dry erase marker, change the number of days until Christmas! LOVE IT!

FREE Christmas Bingo!

2011-11-28T10:51:00.000-08:00

For all of you room moms out there, getting ready for your classroom Christmas parties, here is a link to The Teacher's Wife, where she is offering a FREE black and white or color Christmas Bingo only until December 1. After that, you will need to purchase the set for $2.00 from her TpT store. Print out and laminate a set to use as a center at your holiday party this year. Mark off the spaces with Christmas candy as the pictures are called. Any activity + candy = fun for kids!

Thanksgiving Ideas for the Kids' Table

2011-11-23T07:12:00.000-08:00

Growing up, I must admit that Thanksgiving wasn't one of my favorite holidays. Don't get me wrong...I love turkey, pie and a great home cooked meal, but it felt like there was nothing more than the eating. Now as an adult, my own family usually gets together with my husband's side of the family, where my kids play with their cousins, the guys watch a football game or two and the girls sit in the living room looking through ads in the paper to see which stores we will visit in the middle of the night, all for the sake of a good deal...yeah I'm one of those crazy people! Playing games and eating comes with the holiday too. Well if your family has kids or kids coming to dinner, here are a few ideas you can use to keep them entertained at the "kids table".
Have the kids make these darling little turkeys using Rice Krispies.

While sitting at the table, waiting for the food, have the kids color some Thanksgiving pictures using this FREE package of assembled crayons.

and FREE coloring page, which could double as a placemat.

I am a sucker for Peanut Butter, so making these Nutter Butter turkeys would be a BIG hit at my house.

Ingredients needed:
Nutter Butter Cookies
M&M's (minis)
White Cookie Frosting
Red, Yellow and Orange Jelly Beans
Candy Corn
(Full Sized) Reese's PB Cups
(Nabisco) Chocolate Wafer Cookies

How about these simple Pilgrim hat cookies from Woman's Day? 3 ingredients! (Nabisco) Chocolate Wafer Cookies, 1 tube orange frosting with piping tip, and small Reese's PB cups.

I love this idea from Fiskars. Fill a pie tin with some items to munch on so that when dinner isn't ready on time, the kids will have some food to snack on. Fill the tin with items such as popcorn, M&M's, Bugles chips, nuts, chocolate chips, raisins, etc. Make sure to cut a shape in the lid to resemble the top of a pie.

Also, from Fiskars, turn a paper cup upside down and decorate it like a Pilgrim's hat to hold the crayons. If the table is covered with some white butcher paper, the kids can enjoy the wait time while coloring!

Lastly, I thought I should add some nutrition to the mix. Maybe serving vegetables like this would make the kids want some?!?

I hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving with family and friends! Check back next week as I start the Christmas ideas coming...

Thanksgiving Gift Ideas

2011-11-19T20:04:00.000-08:00

Looking for a quick gift for a friend, neighbor, teacher, or something to bring to dinner? Here are a few suggestions for you this Thanksgiving.
First of all, don't you think kids would be excited to get a jar of Turkey Toes!?! Put some candy corn in a jar and add a cute label and you are all set!

This idea from Mommy By Day, Crafter By Night, is not only super cute and easy, but also includes a FREE tag. Head to the dollar store to pick up a container, add some fall colored M&M's (or Reece's Pieces), slap on a tag and you're ready to go!

Another easy gift idea, would be to print out one of these great printables (or another one you like). Look for a cute 8x10 picture frame at the dollar store (or else where) and add your printable to the frame. All in all, the gift could cost you a little over $1. Here are a few printables I have found a love:

Source: Balancing Home

Source: Capital B

Source: Craftily Ever After

Gratitude Rolls

2011-11-18T10:36:00.000-08:00

THIS may just be one of the coolest Thanksgiving traditions I have seen...GRATITUDE ROLLS.

As guests arrive, give them each a small slip of paper and have them write one thing they are grateful for. Place each slip of paper on a wedge of crescent roll dough and wrap up the paper inside. Follow the directions for the rolls and bake as usual. At dinner, as each guest takes a roll, they read what the slips of paper say. As suggested by Balancing Beauty & Bedlam, a fun twist to this activity is to then guess who wrote what. What a fun way to bring the family closer and keep in mind all our blessings!

{FREE} November Calendar Cards

2011-11-17T06:52:00.000-08:00

Although Novemeber is half way through, maybe you can print out these calendar cards to use for next year. These are a FREE download from Doodle Bugs Teaching, and would work perfectly for sequencing numbers as a center or to use as part of a calendar.

Thanksgiving Acorns

2011-11-16T18:30:00.000-08:00

Since Thanksgiving is always such a crazy day in the kitchen, why not start the day off with a simple breakfast for the kids...like these cute acorn donuts. Okay I know what you're thinking...more calories on Thanksgiving, but aren't they darling!?!

Source: Gracious Rain

These would also be a fun activity for the kids to make while waiting for dinner or during a class party/feast!

HaPpY HaLLoWeEn!

2011-10-31T10:37:00.000-07:00

HaPpY HaLLoWeEn!! I did not mean to pull such an awful trick and not post anything Halloween related for so long! If you only knew how busy everything has been in my life lately you would completely understand! Next year I will have to be more on top of things! For now, I hope you all have a wonderful and safe Halloween, but more importantly I hope you will all be able to survive tomorrow. I know I am worried!! :)

Witches Stew Game

2011-10-14T10:32:00.000-07:00

Halloween Idea #13 - Witches Stew Game:

Family Fun offers this fun Halloween game that you can use at a class party. Only 3 items are needed to get going...straws, construction paper and a bowl.

The instructions from Family Fun are as follows:

1.Before the party, ask your kids to help you cut ten Halloween shapes, such as ghosts, bats and pumpkins from construction paper. Each shape should be about the size of a silver dollar. Place the shapes in a pile beside a small bowl.

2.Using the straw as a vacuum, each contestant tries to pick up a shape and place it in the bowl to create the Witch's Stew. Time the players to see who can get all ten in the bowl the fastest.

Ghost Party Favor

2011-10-13T17:12:00.000-07:00

Halloween Idea #12 - Ghost Party Favor

Are you need need of a simple, cute, and EASY (not to mention inexpensive) Halloween favor? I stumbled across this idea from The Gaines Gang. I love the simplicity behind this idea. And the supplies? No problem! In fact, I am sure you may already have everything you need on hand!

Don't Eat Jack!

2011-10-12T10:31:00.000-07:00

Halloween Idea #11 - Don't Eat ~~Pete~~ Jack!

Have you ever played the game Don't Eat Pete? It's a fun game where you need a game board (like the one above...or something different depending on the holiday) and some small treat...M & M's, cereal pieces, Smarties, Candy Corn, etc. Put your choice of candy in the middle of each square. Send one person out of the room or have them cover their eyes. Have a designated "it" person choose which candy piece will be "Pete", or in this case "Jack". Have the person return to the room/open their eyes and start eating the candy off the game board. As soon as the person picks up "JacK" everyone yells "DON'T EAT JACK!" Continue playing the game until everyone has had a turn to be it.
Toddler Approved has a great printable DON'T EAT JACK! game board just waiting to be used!

Glass Block {Candy Corn} Pumpkin

2011-10-11T10:33:00.000-07:00

Halloween Idea # 10 - Glass Block Candy Corn Pumpkin

Crafts Direct has the tutorial for how to make one of these for yourself! Think how cute this would be on an entry table of your hous or as a teacher gift! If I made this, would just need to make sure my daughter couldn't break into this to steal all that candy corn.

Sucker Count Down Tree to Halloween

2011-10-10T10:44:00.000-07:00

Halloween Idea # 9 - Halloween Sucker Count Down Tree:

This craft is totally going on my "To Make" List, that is growing longer everyday that I spend on blogs and pinterest! I remember my family having a countdown tree similar to this growing up, only ours was used for Christmas. I absolutely loved it! I know that my own kids would LOVE doing this too, or hey, even in the classroom! Check out Crafty Sisters for the step by step tutorial on how to make one of these for yourself!

Halloween Bowling

2011-10-09T12:28:00.000-07:00

Halloween Idea # 8 - Halloween Bowling #1:

I have seen 2 takes on the idea of Halloween bowling. The first idea I found at A Girl and a Glue Gun. This idea looks as though it might take a little more work to get the idea to come together but I love the result. Decorate 10 tin cans and put a little treat inside each can. The kids take turns rolling a small pumpkin or gourd and which ever can/cans they knock over, they get to keep the treat found inside that can.

Halloween Bowling #2:

Draw some ghost faces on {6} toilet paper rolls and create your pumpkin to resemble a bowling ball and you are all set to go. This idea comes from Jeanetics.

Either idea you choose, both are great ideas for entertaining kidsat a party!!

Dryer Duct Pumpkin

2011-10-07T10:57:00.000-07:00

Halloween Idea # 7 Dryer Duct Pumpkin -

Can you believe just how create some people can be? I mean honestly, who looks at a DRYER DUCT and thinks to themselves, "Hmmm...how can I turn this into a pumpkin?" Yup, that's right, this craft comes to you from House of Hepworths, where they did just that!

(5) Items needs for this simple craft project:

* an aluminum dryer duct 3″ diameter about 21″ long

* 3 cinnamon sticks
* raffia
* hot glue gun or small stapler
* orange Rust-oleum spray paint

Head over to the link above for the complete step-by-step tutorial on how to create this look for yourself! This idea would be a great item to decorate your house, porch, or classroom. This idea, depending on the age you are a room mom for, could even work at your classroom party. Also, think how fun it would be to give as a gift to a friend or teacher. I love simple ideas!

Happy Halloween Pencil Gift Holder

2011-10-06T15:23:00.000-07:00

Halloween Idea # 6 - Happy Halloween Pencil:

I am all about giving gifts in a create way. Something about makes me almost more excited to give the wrapped object than the gift itself! This idea from Craftberry Bush is just too stinkin' cute. I am sharing this idea as a Halloween idea because of the fact that the label on the pencil reads "Happy Halloween", but truthfully that could be changed to read Happy Birthday, Welcome Back to School, Merry Christmas, A #2 Pencil for #1 Teacher, etc. This pencil is made from an empty cardboard tube...wrapping paper to be more exact, but I am thinking that I would use a paper towel tube instead. Fill the cardboard tube with candy or other gift items pinch the tip to a close...pencil tip.

Halloween Labels

2011-10-05T08:46:00.000-07:00

Halloween Idea # 5 -
Want to add some spook to your Halloween party? Here are some FREE drink labels you can download from SilHOOettes. Buy some bright colored drinks/pop in glass bottles, add your label and you are all set!

If that doesn't work for you, try Martha Stewart's labels...for more than just drinks.

Glitter Spider Rings

2011-10-04T10:31:00.000-07:00

Halloween Idea # 4 -

I am sure everyone has seen these plastic spider rings around Halloween time!?!

Well how fun would it be to create these bad boys?

That's right. Some spiced up glitter spider rings from Bunny Cakes. These would make great party favors, a craft activity, or simply an addition to a Halloween gift bag...tied on with some raffia.

* Bonus: For a FREE 61 page download that is PERFECT for preschool aged kids, visit Oopsey Daisy and download the H is for Halloween packet. The packet includes math, reading, art, games and much more.

Paper Mache Bowls

2011-10-03T05:05:00.000-07:00

Halloween Idea #3: Paper Mache Bowls -

Not only would I have lots of fun making these candy holding bowls, but I know that my own children would too! The Long Thread shows how to make these adorable pumpkin and ghost bowls using paper bags, tissue paper and acrylic paint. Simple and so stinkin' cute!

31 Days of Halloween Ideas...

2011-10-02T13:29:00.000-07:00

Whether you are a mom, teacher, room mom or someone who likes hosting parties, I will be posting Halloween ideas all month, so check back often to find something that will fit what you are looking for!
To start the month of right, maybe you need some Halloween decor to get things going. Since today is October 2, I am including TWO ideas.

Halloween Idea #1: Halloween Wreath
A Halloween Tulle Wreath from Between U & Me.

OR this other super fun tulle wreath from Ali Lilly. {Have I ever mentioned how much I love tulle?!?}

Even though this wreath idea was created because of a Candyland themed birthday party, this candy wreath from My Two Cupcakes would be perfect for Halloween!

Idea #2: Frankenstein -

Make your own Frankenstein out of a strap of 2 x 4, paint, and a few extras. Idea from Craft-O-Maniac.

Where's My Mummy?

2011-09-26T08:55:00.000-07:00

Here's a fun Halloween book and writing/art activity to go along. This idea comes from The First Grade Parade. I love doing an activity to go along with a story and this will be perfect for my 1st graders this year! The art is made by using a paper plate, a black strip of construction paper and 2 orange circles for the eyes. Have the kids rip pieces of white paper to create the mummy effect. The kids then write about what their "mummy" does for them when they get scared.

Using the same story and idea, here is a variation of the paper plate mummy from Deanna Jump.

What fun Halloween ideas! Thanks ladies for sharing these ideas. I'm thinking how cute this would be for a bulletin board display!

Me? A Versatile Blogger?

2011-09-25T14:45:00.000-07:00

First of all, if you are a teacher using the Treasures Reading program in your school, and have not yet checked out Just 4 Teachers, you are missing out! Last year was my school's first year taking on Treasures, and if you have been there before, you know any new change can be a major adjustment. This year I have been using Debi's poems and ideas to create my own poetry journal for my students and they LOVE it as much as I do! So there you have it, my HUGE shout out and thanks a TON to Debi for making poetry so much fun. Recently, she left a comment letting me know that she was awarding me this:

Here are the rules of the award:

*Thank the person who gave you the award and link back to them in your post.
*Share 7 things about yourself.
*Pass this award along to 15 recently discovered blogs.

Well, here goes.... Seven Things About Me!
1. I am married and have 4 wonderful children ranging in ages 4 - 12.
2. Only 1 out of my 4 kids were planned! LOL
3. I spent 9 1/2 of my childhood years growing up in Saudi Arabia.
4. I was originally thinking of pursuing a degree in International Business with a minor in Russian. Boy, am I glad I went in the direction I chose instead!! I love teaching!
5. I love everything about FALL! The leaves changing colors, cooler weather, sweaters, football and holidays on their way!

6. Everything is better with peanut butter! I seriously add it to my icecream and on top of my pancakes. Crazy for the stuff!
7. I have been snorkeling in the Red Sea and floating in the Dead Sea...2 of the coolest places!
If you think you still need to know more about me...click here.

I am not passing this award on to 15 recently discovered blogs, for the main fact that I still can't seem to leave comments on half the blogs out there that I read...so frustrating. So even if I were to award 15 people, there would be no way of letting them know. Darn! If you are reading this though, consider yourself one of the ones I would have chosen. :)

Pete the Cat

2011-09-19T09:04:00.000-07:00

Earlier this year I won the book Pete the Cat from Mrs. Parker. At that time, I had never heard of the then new children's book, but now it seems it is everywhere. If you have ever listened to the song that goes along with the story, you would know why. It is so cute and so catchy!
To begin, I think the most popular thing out there is this Pete the Cat unit from Deanna Jump.

Can you see why? You can purchase this entire 70 page download on Mrs. Jump's TpT for just $6.00!

After reading the story to your class, you will need to create a classbook to go along with it, so try this download from Finally in First.

Or from Made For 1st Grade, this classbook:

Mrs. Parker created these darling Pete the Cat puppets using blue paper sacks found at Target.

and her bulletin board idea using Pete the Cat...oh my!

Making Learning Fun has TONS of great printables for the book, including a dot to dot, coloring pages, reader book, math activities and more...

Kindergarten Crayons has SO MANY Pete the Cat printables/downloads, including this great little printable book...

This cut and glue in the right order sentence and draw your own picture page...wow and I call myself a teacher? {Nice sentence! LOL}

(Kindergarten Crayons)

I love this idea of using shapes to create a Pete the Cat.

I also love this pocket chart center idea. Click HERE to get your own for FREE!

The following ideas were found on Pinterest, so I am not sure where they originate from since the link takes you straight to Scribd. If you know, please let me know so that I may give credit where it's due. Anyway...this Pete the Cat school tour idea would be so fun if you used this at the beginning of the year to familiarize your students with the school. Also, a great color book HERE...I can see it's from Kinderpond, but couldn't find the original post to link to.

Want to have a Pete the Cat classroom mascot? Head over to Erika Bohrer's First Grade to see how.

From Cecelia Magro, here is a FREE 1st grade math journal download from TpT.

If you are a primary elementary teacher, or a mother of a young child, then this Pete the Cat idea is for you! Peace, Love and Learning created this FREE unit which motivates your child to want to learn how to tie their shoes so they can join "Pete's Shoe Tying Club". You have to check it out!

OK and finally, if you are into totally ridiculous birthday parties for your children, you have to read about this Pete the Cat birthday, where "Mr. Eric" (the author himself) was a guest! You can read more about that at Made During Nap Time.

Hattie and the Fox

2011-09-18T07:24:00.000-07:00

Hattie and the Fox is a younger aged children's book, written by Mem Fox. Hattie tries warning her animal friends that she sees something in the bushes, but nobody pays attention to her, until they realize that what she is saying is true. Here are a few activities to accompany the story...
I love this tear art project from Bloesem Kids.

Use the animal printables from Hubbards Cupboard to create the masks needed for a reader's theatre.

Discount on School Pictures!

2011-09-15T19:11:00.000-07:00

Today was school picture day for me and you know what that means....one hectic morning with my own kids! Anyway, I thought I would share a tip with all you teachers/school employees reading this post. Did you know that if you write "faculty" on your {own child's} picture envelope, you only have to pay HALF of the picture price for their picture package?!? Not all photographers may offer that deal, but asking never hurts! I love a good deal!

Chicka Chicka Boom Boom

2011-09-11T19:32:00.000-07:00

Although I am now about a month into the new school year, I know that for many {primary} teachers Chicka Chicka Boom Boom is a favorite for beginning the school year. If it's not too late...check out these great finds!
From I Heart Crafty Things, start off with this cookie sheet/magnet board of ABC's

and finish things off with this coconut treat snack. OH MY!

From Peace, Love and Learning, a FREE counting game download!

The Crafting Chicks shows you how to create your own mini coconut trees using toilet paper rolls, a leaf pattern and foam letters.

oh...and another idea for a snack to follow the book.

Read Together Create Together has this idea for an art project.

Kinder By Kim has the following idea, which I could see using as part of a call book or bulletin board. What a fun name and letter idea!

This bulletin board idea from Mrs. Jump's Kindergarten Class

Mama Dani's Musings came up with this lapbook for the book.

Along with this art project using an arm for the trunk of the tree, hand prints for the palm leaves, thumb prints for the coconuts and stamps for the letters.

Mama Dani's Musings recently added some ideas for Chicka Chicka Boom Boom 123.

Check out this writing area...using the coconut tree and letter recognition. I love the lights, unfortunately I don't think I would be allowed to do something like that at my school though. This picture was sent to me from a reader {Monica}, a pre-k teacher. Love it!

Tattle Tell

2011-09-02T06:41:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow marks the end to my first 2 1/2 weeks of school. Already I am thinking about how I can address the tattle telling issue. This summer my kids picked out a book at our public library called Don't Squeal Unless It's A Big Deal.

This book does a really good job of explaining to the kids the difference between tattling and informing an adult in an emergency!

Another tattling book I came across was A Bad Case of Tattle Tongue...although I must admit that I have never read it. Looks and sounds cute though!

I totally want/need to make one of these posters and basket.

If you would prefer a tattling moster over the tattling turtle, here ya go from Giggles Galore...

First, make a monster from an empty Kleenex box.

Then print out one of these signs and Wa-La! A simple solution!

Grow Up Learning uses the same idea of the Tattling Turtle, but uses a tiger instead. Super cute!!

Also...Really Roper has a GREAT tattling song on her blog. Check it out!!

Any other ideas out there I have missed? I would love to know what all you are doing to address the issue of tattling...either in your classroom or at home with your own children. :)

Chrysanthemum

2011-08-31T19:52:00.000-07:00

For the month of September, I am thinking of focusing on Literacy Ideas. I LOVE integrating subjects and tying everything together. Sadly, it seems as though the only way to be able to fit art into my schedule (with a jammed pack core and list a mile long of things to fit it...including my reading program Treasures) is to integrate. Besides, lessons like these are great to have on hand for substitutes and S-L-O-W days! I have a crate on my back counter with stories & activities just waiting to share with my class this year!
Starting with a back to school book is Chrysanthemum by Kevin Henkes.

From Kinder Kraziness is a free "What's in a Name?" download (1 page) or a 13 page Chrysanthemum unit to print out.

Great ideas, including these name cards from Teaching Heart.

I really don't know where this idea originates from because I found it saved on my computer without a website. If it's you, please let me know and I will leave a link, otherwise, I had it saved HERE. Love the compare/contrast idea though!

Crazy For 1st Grade has this great little print out, including a letter to send home to the parents explaining what you are studying. What a great introduction/get-to-know-you at the beginning of the school year!

First Grade and Fancy Free has a name graph available to print for FREE. Great way to incorporate that math!

From The First Grade Parade, I L-O-V-E this idea! Before reading the story, talk about how every student is different and unique and how they all have different names. Hand a paper heart to one student, and as you read the story aloud to the class, have that students take turn crumpling the heart each time he/she hears and unkind thing being said. By the end of the story, the heart will look pretty tattered. Oh my...such a cute idea and great way to start off the year with anti-bullying. Check out her blog for more instructions and details!

First Grade and Fabulous has a TERRIFIC unit on Chrysanthemum to download for FREE if you are interested. It is a must have!

Back to School Gifts

2011-08-25T18:07:00.000-07:00

Holy-moly-guacamole! Can you tell that school has started back up for me...along with my cheesy sayings! LOL I forgot just HOW BUSY the months of August and May are for me. I am sure whether or not you are a teacher, you probably can relate to the chaos of it all!?! I know I can't be alone on this! Anyway...I did have a few back to school ideas to share. Not so sure if all of you have headed back to school yet. If so, you can file these ideas away for next year. If you haven't, then you are in luck!
From First Grade and Fancy Free, there are 4 different ideas with the printables, making this idea just too easy not to use! What a fun idea to have these on the students' desks for back to school night or for the first day of school!

2 Clever Blog has a great way to enhance a book given to the teacher. On the inside cover of the book, trace your child's had and write a little about what you did over the summer. The girl who gave this gift, fed the monkeys over the summer, so the mom glued a picture of that even inside and chose the book 5 Little Monkeys Jumping on the Bed. I love how personal this gift is! So cute!!

The Crafting Chicks has several great ideas. If you like the "fry" container, there is a template to make one!

And a tutorial for this little magnet board. Perfect for getting those notes on the {teacher's} desk out of the way!

From What's the Buzz in 1st comes this simply idea. Put some Lucky Charms cereal in a baggie and attach one of her FREE downloadable tags!

Good luck to each of you as you enter a new school year!

Great Room Parent Tool!!

2011-08-16T05:46:00.000-07:00

When I first began this blog, my primary purpose was to reach out to room parents in hopes of helping them out, since I was new and clueless to being a room mom myself. I had the hardest time finding ideas (door decorations, parties, and more) so I decided to create my own site to help others in the same boat. Since that time, 3 years ago, I have returned to teaching (1st grade) full time. My blog still shares ideas and tips for room parents, but it also offers teaching ideas. I guess that is why my header says "Room Mom 101...where you can find ideas for ALL your school needs". Hopefully my blog has and does help people do just that. I feel like it does by all your nice comments and great followers I have now!! You guys are GREAT! Anyway...At the beginning of summer, I had the great opportunity of gaining a sponsor for my blog. A representative from Volunteer Spot contacted me in regards to my blog. (You might have noticed the green button in the top right corner of my blog?!?) She told me all about her site and how it could greatly benefit Room Parents everywhere.

Looking back on being a room mom, one of the most time consuming parts of being was scheduling parents for class volunteers, holiday parties, and conferences. Lost clipboard signup sheets, long ‘reply all’ email chains, and phone tag – ugh! Some room moms give up and end up doing it all themselves. DON’T!
Instead, save time {and sanity} and try out VolunteerSpot's free online sign up sheets – it makes coordinating parents simple and easy! Just a few clicks of your mouse and you can have your class volunteer calendar all set up. Email the parents the link (or put it on your class website), they click and sign up – choosing when they want to read to the class, help at table-time, or what to bring to the class party. Automated reminders help parents keep their commitments and remind you if a parent doesn’t have an email address. Parents can even signup on the go – from their smartphone! It’s so easy it feels like you cheated ;)
VolunteerSpot has terrific free eBooks including a new Classroom Party Guide – with fun ideas throughout the year!
Volunteer Spot has made life much easier for many room parents AND teachers. Check out some of these comments:

"I'm a HUGE VolunteerSpot fan - we signed up over 350 volunteers and it could NOT have been easier!" ~ Allie, Highlands SummerFest, Atlanta, GA

"Wow! You have saved me hours and hours of emails and phone calls. Thank you, VolunteerSpot!" ~ Joyce F., Kindergarten Homeroom Mom, Farifax, VA

"VolunteerSpot has been the answer to my prayers for an easy way to have parents sign up for a parent-teacher conference!! It was easy to create and easy for parents to use. It really cut down on paper and notes back and forth." ~ Jennifer, 4th Grade Teacher, Apex, NC

I am so excited to have such a great sponsor! They have been great to work with and I absolutely LOVE the idea behind this site. If this is your year to be your child's room parent, or if you are a teacher looking for a new approach to scheduling conferences, head on over and check out Volunteer Spot!

Magic Playdough

2011-08-11T07:07:00.000-07:00

Last night I stumbled across the neatest 1st day of school idea from Jodi at Fun in First. Maybe you have seen or heard of this idea before, but this was the first time I had and I thought it looked so fun! It's called "Magic Playdough".

The poem reads "Magic Playdough, oh so white, I make this wish with all my might. If another color does appear. We're sure to have a GREAT school year." Basically, you make your own homemade flour playdough recipe (or head to Fun in First for the included recipe). Leave it white, but in each portion, add a drop or 2 of food coloring to the middle, but DON'T knead it. When the student pulls out their playdough and begins to play with it, they will see it change color. Can you imagine the look on some of the younger students' faces?!? I swear they would all think I was magic! LOL This seems like it would be a fun thing to have on the students' desks at either back to school night or waiting for them on the first day of school.

Jodi also had some other great 1st and 2nd day of school ideas on her blog, including some printables for writing. Super cute! Thanks Jodi for being so willing to share!

All About ME

2011-08-10T14:24:00.000-07:00

So this post isn't really all about ME, but it is filled with "All About Me" get to know you activities for the first of the school year.

Simply 2nd Resources created this great "All About Me" foldable book. Check it out to see just how fun it would be to use! I totally love it!

Here is a FREE "All About Me" poster download from Step Into 2nd Grade with Mrs. Lemons. She copies this poster onto an 11 x 17 piece of paper so that it is just like the ones you BUY at the store! What a great freebie. These posters are always a lot of fun to use around birthday times!

For older grades, you could make one of these All About Me paper bag books! This ideas is from Mrs. Sloane's Creations.

Your students can create an "All About Me" doll to represent themselves.

(This idea was found on Dresses N Messes.)

All Things PIRATE!

2011-08-08T07:42:00.000-07:00

As I mentioned in an earlier post, my classroom's current theme is pirates. This post has several great pirate ideas in case you have chosen to use that theme as well! Other themes to come, but if you haven't checked out The Clutter Free Classroom before, she offers get ideas, pictures and suggestions for classroom themes!!

Frogs, Bees and Under the Seas has a whole post about a pirate classroom including some of my own pictures! Some of the great finds included in their post are these great little printable name plates.

First Grade Blue Skies is using this door:

and this bulletin board which says "Arrrgh you ready for ________ grade?"

LOTS of awesome pirate ideas, including book suggestions from Mrs. M. I really think the pirate glyph is great and it is included as a free printable from her blog! Look how cute these guys are! Looks like a great first of the year idea.

Crazy for First Grade has a treasure hunt idea (with a how to make your own authentic treasure map), pirate book suggestions and some SUPER pirate writing printables like this...

LOVE!!!

AND from another pirate post of her's...fun things like these:
Read the room for AR and OR words:

and fun looking math games like this place value one:

A few binder printables from Mrs. Jump

Also from Mrs. Jump, are these great pirate ideas found in her TpT Unit, which I might just have to get!

A FREE Word Wall download on TpT thanks to Frogs in First.

Pirate kid craft ideas from The Crafty Crow.

I Heart Crafty Things made a cute pirate paper plate project with her kids as part of story time. Love it!

Cottage Industrialist hosted a pirate themed birthday party, but if you scroll to the end of her post, you will find lots of great pirate printables!

Sweet Peas and Bumblebees shows you how to plan a fun pirate playdate with your kids. Including this clever pirate map pizza.

Some pirate ideas (more for a child's party), but still super cute from Katherine Marie Photography.

Oh course since The Clutter Free Classroom has done a lot on classroom themese, I can't forget to link up to all the great ideas and pictures she has included for decorating a pirate themed classroom! Thanks Jodi.

WOW! I think that just about covers it! I know there are many great pirate units out there on Teachers Pay Teachers, but too many to go down the list. If you have a fun pirate activity, I would love to hear about it!!

First Day of School Activities

2011-08-07T14:05:00.000-07:00

This one is for the teachers out there...
I have found some really fun 1st of the school year ideas that I thought I would share.
Brown Bear, Brown Bear What do you See? is one of those great early reader books that uses repetition to teach reading skills. Melissa from F is for First Grade, created a free downloadable version of First Graders, First Graders, What do you see? Such a super name/getting to know you activity! Totally using it!

Mrs. Mac @ First Class with Mrs. Mac created the original version of this book adaptation and you can print hers too! Love it!

If you aren't a 1st grade teacher, and reading this, you might be able to find a version that would work for your grade level. If not, this gives you the idea to create your own!

Twisty Noodle has a variety of great coloring pages for the first day of school. These are great to have on the students' desks as they come in to class that first day!

Need a printable alphabet chart? No problem, Judy @ KinderTastic has you taken care of!

I LOVE this name recognition activity...again geared towards the younger kids. Have your student write their name with a white crayon on a white sheet of construction paper. Then have the kids watercolor over the "invisible" name and watch it appear! This idea was seen at Dresses N Messes.

Babbling Abby has a fun name idea too! Man! I love her site...so fun to read!

For older grades, HERE is a great venn diagram the students can use to compare and contrast their summer to another student's summer vacation.

or HERE for a printable Back to School BINGO.

I could see the following form used to decorate a bulletin board. Have the students fill out this Guess Who I Am form. As the teacher, tape a piece of black construction paper to a wall and using an overhead projector, trace each student's profile. Have them cut out what you have traced and mount the black profile picture onto a different color of construction paper to make it stand out. Attach the form to the profile picture and walaa!

Something that I did last year in my class (that I will continue to do) is with my pirate themed class, we go on a treasure hunt. Really, this is my way of giving the students a tour of the school, but it adds a little spice. First I read a pirate story (any will do). During lunch is when I set things up because it gives me time to get things ready and by then the kids really aren't expecting anything. When the students come back to class after lunch, I tell them I found an envelope on my desk addressed to the class. Basically it is a typed up note from a pirate named Boris, who tells us he has left treasure in the school for us, but that we have to go find it. I have notes/clues taped up around the school (that I pray an older grade student doesn't move during lunch!) and we walk around as a class following the clues until we find the treasure. I have a treasure chest waiting at the end of the hunt filled with a treasure of some sort for each student. Last year the treasure was some pirate fruit snacks and pirate silly bands. This year though I found these great little pirate zip lock bags in the dollar bins at Target. I plan to fill enough bags with some kind of treasure. I was thinking chocolate coins, plastic money, (gold foil wrapped) Rolos or something else piratey (yes, I just made up that word!)

What ideas do you have for the 1st day or week of school??

Back to School Gifts for the Teacher

2011-08-05T07:19:00.000-07:00

If you are interested in giving your child's teacher something small to start the year, here are a few suggestions:
Oops! I Craft My Pants (by the way I can't help but smile everytime I read her blog title!) has an idea of giving a bottle of lotion with the saying: "We hope your school year goes smoothly." Interested in a label? She has them all ready for you to use, just head on over!

Eighteen25 used a jumbo calculator (which the dollar store carries) and attached a tag saying: "According to my calculations...this is going to be a good year!" Yup, you guessed it, the tag is there and ready for you to print!

The Rachel Berry Blog made these cute pencil bouquets for the teachers. I think these would be for at any point during the year though.

And finally, this last idea is just completely RIDICULOUS! I saw this idea on Pinterest and thought about how completely AMAZING this supply cake looks, but seriously, I think you would have to L-O-V-E your child's teacher!! It might be a fun gift for the PTA to give to the office staff or have as a centerpiece at a back to school lunch though!

Back to School Pictures

2011-08-03T06:53:00.000-07:00

When it comes to heading back to school, you can't leave out taking pictures of your own children. Something about the first day of school, makes me as a mom, want to capture every detail of my child; their outfit, hair style, shoes, backpack, missing teeth and more. Unless you have a great memory or are quick to label your pictures, you run the risk of forgetting which year was which and they could start blending together. If you have nodded along with any part so far, then this is for you!

Make and Takes teaches you how to make your own speech bubble...FUN for so many different settings!

Don't want to make one? Why not use Living Locurto's suggestion and go off the Pottery Barn inspiration. (Click the link to see how her pictures turned out.)

Buy a mini chalkboard from a craft store and write your info. on it.

The Crafting Chicks have a great check list to get you thinking of what kind of pictures you might be after and how to best achieve it. These were some of my favorites...

Dad and son heading to the bus stop...so dang cute!

Friends hanging at the bus stop...with the backpack picture!

Let's face it, pictures can start to be embarrassing if your child is heading to middle/high school, but if you could snap a picture like this...it would be so cool!

Last year I had my kids write on a paper their grade so that I would be able to capture their handwriting at that particular age too. I love being able to see all the changes from year to year and I thought that was just one more fun element to remember. I love taking pictures of my children as it is, but I love how fun and memorable all these ideas are! So...what are you waiting for? Grab your camera and go have some fun!!

Back to School Door Ideas

2011-08-02T06:59:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure when everyone else starts back to school, but yesterday when my daughter reminded me that I only had 2 more weeks before I was required to be back, I freaked. I have known all along, but it didn't actually register until she made that comment. So with that in mind, I will be doing some posts on back to school for the next couple of weeks.
Here are a few back to school doors I have discovered. I tend to decorate my bulletin board instead of my door to welcome the students back, but if you are the opposite, then hopefully these can help you.
Bright Hub used the students' names to create a word search on the door.

Adventures of the American Mind's art work is amazing! Check out a few doors she has used...

From Bulletin Board Ideas, here is an idea using crayons.

Scrap and Teach made created her bulletin board (yes, I realize it isn't a door, but it was too cute not to share!) using her Cricut machine and theme of Chicka Chicka Boom Boom.

Have a door or bulletin board you think I should see? Send me an email with a picture or leave a comment with a link so I can find and feature your idea!

Travel Ideas for Your Kids

2011-07-29T13:00:00.000-07:00

Sorry for my 2 weeks of MIA. Wow time really flies! I have been super busy lately with my oldest daughter's softball team. She made the All Star team, which was a week long tournament. Their team took first place and went on to compete in San Bernardino, CA at the Little League Softball Western Regional Tournament to represent our state. It was such an incredible experience, but I don't think the girls fully understood just how lucky and incredible the talent of these young girls (11-13 year olds) was. Our team ended up winning 2 games and losing 2 and we were super excited by those results! I returned home yesterday and after being a chaperon to the girls, I am figuring out my identity of being a wife, mother and more all over again!
Since I have been traveling, I thought I would share a few ideas that you might be able to use on a trip of your own. After all there are still a few more weeks left of summer!
Make your own dry erase tote from Stubbornly Crafty:

Make an antibored kit. Gather small items your kids would enjoy and place them in a painted and decorated Altoids tin. Idea from Instructables.

Printable Bingo cards from While He Was Napping.

Make a marble maze game as seen on Serving Pink Lemonade.

When my family takes a trip, I try to have a car bag filled with things the kids enjoy. It would be best to have a small bag for each child to help cut down on fighting. Here are a few ideas for entertaining your kids on your next family trip:

Small toys your kids love - small plastic animals, cars, etc.
Electronics - Ipod, portable DVD, gameboys
Coloring books, notebooks, crayons, markers
Magnadoodle, Etcha Sketch, etc.
String/yarn - cat's cradle, friendship bracelets
Snacks - remember chocolate is messy and melts!
Magnetics with a (metal) TV dinner tray so your kids can build on their own travel table. Plus the dinner tray works well for snacks and coloring! I bought some a few years ago for my kids when we were heading on a road trip and they helped a ton! I bought mine at the check out stand at Walmart for only a few dollars each.
Books
Crossword puzzle, Wordsearch or Sudoku books (make sure your child doesn't get car sick!)
Travel sized games - Target & Walmart have these in their game sections, but check the dollar store too!
Deck of cards, dice, card games.

*Keep in mind your children's likes, ages, gender and the duration of the trip. Any other ideas you want to add to the list? Let me know what you do to keep your kids entertained!

Pictures Of My Pirate Themed Classroom

2011-07-15T19:25:00.000-07:00

When it comes to setting up your classroom, the hardest part {for me} is finding a theme to use. Using a theme makes life so much easier for me. I try to tie everything, or as much as I can in my classroom to that theme. When I taught 3rd grade, my theme was bees. When I find my pictures of my old classroom, I will do a post about that. Currently, I have chosen to go with a pirate theme. I'm not sure how/why I went with it, but it works...for now. Here are some themed items from my classroom. Keep in mind this was my first year with this theme, so it is a work in progress to build upon what I have.

I found a {scroll} notepad at a teacher store and knew it would work well with my theme, but at the time I wasn't sure what to do with it. Well I ended up typing up some reading tips and glued them to the scroll paper and attached them to a small bulletin board next to my guided reading table.

My word wall I also created using a note pad. I glued a piece of treasure chest notepad paper to a piece of poster board to form a more sturdy letter. Walla...my word wall:

I made my job chart by finding a clipart image of a ship I liked. After copying it onto a transparency, I used my overhead projector to project the image onto the wall and I was able to trace the image in a larger scale. I believe I am the last person at the school to still have an overhead projector, in case you are wondering what ancient teaching tool I am talking about! :)

This is the front of my desk, and how I like to take roll & lunch count. When my students come in to class, they move their lunch tag (on the right of the yellow tape strip) to the appropriate treasure chest. Cold for home/sack lunch and hot for school lunch. This comes in handy during the day when I can't remember who is absent for the day. All I have to do is look at who's name tag hasn't been moved and I know! The name tags I made by using a 2 1/2" die cut circle punch and punching the "gold coins" from a sparkly gold bulletin board border. (I made the job chart name tags the same way, using yellow poster board.)

Here is a picture of my reading nook. I realize how plain it looks, but it is going to have a lot more going on before much longer. I ordered the flags (hanging from the ceiling) from Amazon for (I want to say) $3.00 a piece. The brown mast is spray painted white poster board bent into shape. I added the pirate flag pennant that I found at the dollar store. My husband thought it would be a good idea to add the fishing net, but against my carpeted wall it was very plain so we added blue butcher paper behind the netting. The reading chair is a whiskey barrel planter turned upside down and upholstered with batting and pirate fabric.

It would probably be better to make a "wooden plank" bench (like this):

to fit more kids, but this chair will allow for 2 kids to sit on it and I like the way it turned out.

This summer I found a paper mache treasure chest, similar to this, at Hobby Lobby for less than $12. I already use a treasure chest filled with goodies for rewards at the end of each week, but I liked the price and look of it so I grabbed one and took it home.

I added some paint, and here is the new and improved version.

Although a treasure chest like this might have been better looking!

My biggest tip is to think of a theme that works for you best. Look for items that work and build upon your collection gradually. The dollar store and thrift stores are great places to look! If you can't find what you want...make it!

Clutter Free Classroom is a great resource for classroom themes if you are unable to think of something you to go with. Check it out!!

Do you use a theme in your classroom? What theme have you picked out? I would love comments, ideas, links and more to see what is happening in your rooms!

Back to School Bulletin Boards

2011-07-12T09:41:00.000-07:00

Can you believe summer is half way gone? I guess that depends on when school starts up for you again, but for us, we have about 1 month left. It's crazy how fast it flies by. Honestly, by May I am needing a break, but by August I am ready for school to begin, mainly so our family can get back on a routine. With the thought of school, here are a few back-to-school bulletin board ideas to get you thinkin...

"Wel-GUM" to ______ grade!...using a gumball machine with the students' name on gumballs. The 1st picture comes from Heather Beauchamp.

The 2nd picture is from a 4th grade teacher @ Two Things In Common. She has more bulletin board ideas so check out her link for more. Also on the link are some great back-to-school teacher tips!

"Look Who's Poppin' Into _________ Grade!" Idea from Mrs. Naylor.

"Wild About Learning" from Trendy Teacher.

Cute idea for a Toy Story/Monkey themed room. Idea from Sewin 2 Disney.

"Buzz On In" to Mrs. McDowell's room with this display! I would have totally loved this when my (3rd grade) class was bee themed!

More ideas can be found HERE

and HERE.

I Like Big Books And I Cannot Lie!

2011-07-11T07:46:00.000-07:00

Honestly, can you even read the title to this post without singing it!?! Well since I have done some recent posts about reading, I thought I would share with you a fun book bag idea.

Hilarious right? I got a kick out of this idea when I saw it. If you want to make one of these for yourself, check out Love Endures All Things for the tutorial.

*Sorry if you now have Sir Mix-A -Lot stuck in your head for the rest of the day! LOL I know I will!

FREE Sharpies at Target!

2011-07-10T21:10:00.000-07:00

I LOVE a good deal, so I thought I would share this great site I came across...Target Treasures. Basically this blog tells you about the deals Target has going on each week...Great! One more reason to visit the store and spend more than I should be! I can't complain if it's a good deal though right?!? Anyway, with school right around the corner, the deal for this week is Sharpie markers.

Sharpies are on sale for $1.00. Print off this $1.00 coupon (see page 9 of the add) and get 2 Sharpies for FREE!! Spread the word, but make sure to leave some for me!!

Getting Your Child Ahead Over the Summer

2011-07-10T08:32:00.000-07:00

I am sure you have heard from teachers, or witnessed it for yourself as a parent, but it is true that children can loose some of their learning from the school year over the summer months. It can be frustrating for both the parents, child and teachers. Well in asking for some reading suggestions to get your kids motivated, I received several great ideas. One idea comes from a reader @ Busy Kids = Happy Mom. (By the way, I totally love the title of this blog...it is so true!) Anyway, Kristen suggested coming up with what academic area your child needs to work on, based on their end of the year report card and make a plan. Set goals and a point system so your child knows there will be a reward for their hard work and effort.
Here's what Kristen had to say:

"How are prizes awarded at my house?

1. My husband and I decide what we really think the kids are willing to work for.
2. We ask our kids for suggestions. My youngest always says "Lego Land" - we ask for simpler ideas!
3. We choose 3-4 prizes that we can make happen. This means- is this something that we can afford to purchase or are we willing to travel or attend (sporting event, amusement park).
4. Finally, we figure out exactly how many points we think our children can earn over the summer. We generally award for 50 points, 150 points, and 300 points.

50 Points - Video Game

150 Points - J: trip to local baseball game, R: trip to a water park for the other (they will earn it for the entire family to attend)
300 Points - Trip for the entire family to a local amusement park

Tips

All points are cumulative - they do not need to start over from the beginning for each prize
Setting goals and accomplishing them gives your child a huge boost in self-confidence!
Do not make this too complicated for yourself or else it will never happen. "

For more on her top 10 tips for summer points, CLICK HERE.

Truthfully, I have been doing something similar to this with my son already this summer. I wasn't too pleased with his math scores at the end of the year so I asked a teacher if I could check out a (less often used) math book from her for the summer...this way he wouldn't have a repeat of the same book. I sat down at my computer and typed up a list of (what I felt was) the most important pages/assignments from the book and told him he would be working on a page a day during the summer. Some people may call me the "Nazi Mom" for doing this, but in truth I don't want my son to get further behind, so I will gladly wear that title! Aside from the week vacation we took in June (hey, the kid has to get a break sometime!) he has been very determined and surprisingly self- motivated. I told him I would pay him $20 if he would complete his work, so that may be why he has been self motivated! :) My son is driven my money, but find out what works for your child (like Kristen did) and go for it! Nothing too expensive or crazy is really needed. If your child needs rewards more often, buy items from the dollar store and make a prize box out of it. Taking your child to the park, to see a movie, McDonalds, to get a snowcone, or a parent date night are all ideas that might work for you?!?
I asked my son earlier this week if he thought doing his math was helping him to learn more and improve and he said yes so that makes me feel like it is all worth it! If he can start 6th grade feeling more confident about his abilities, that will make for a much better overall year!!

FREE {Online} Storytime From Barnes and Noble!

2011-07-09T09:00:00.000-07:00

This post is a follow up on my yesterday's post about getting your children to LIKE reading. Thank you to everyone who commented. You all had some great ideas and suggestions!!
Well last night I found out that Barnes and Nobles has an online storytime. How cool is that!?! Each month a book is chosen to be featured. The stories are read by authors and celebrities and are played right on the computer for FREE. This month's book is:

As of now there are 14 books in their library including some real classics that your children will love!! Some of the books...

Go check it out and see for yourself how entertained your child will be!

CLICK HERE

Getting Your Child to LIKE Reading!

2011-07-08T06:52:00.000-07:00

Yesterday morning as I was walking with some friends, we were talking about ways to making reading more exciting to our kids. I recently did a post about how to keep your kids reading during the summer, but my oldest son is one of those kids who HATES reading. I know how important reading is so I am one of those mean moms who MAKES him read. I have him read picture books to my younger 2 kids to help my son with his fluency, but I also make him read chapter books in his head so he is working on books more on his level. I know...super mean mom! Here are a few ideas my friends and I talked about that might help your struggling reader or child who hates to read too!
#1 - Find a {chapter} book to read from each night. By doing this, your child isn't actually reading, but they are listening to oral fluency and expression, which will help them to become better readers. The other thing with this idea is that sometimes chapter books can be intimidating to a child, so having the book read to them makes it more exciting and a little less daunting.

#2 - Get books on tape/CD. The public library is a great place to start! There is usually a great selection to choose from and maybe your library would even be willing to order some in if you had a request. Book orders (during the school year) are also a good way to build your collection. Again, by listening this will help your child with fluency and expression. I came across this site (STORYNORY), where you can listen to stories on your computer or download them to your I-Pod. Check it out to see if a story you are looking for is there.

# 3 - Turn on the subtitles when watching TV or a movie. My friend suggested this...something I never would have thought of. Your child will be reading without even thinking about it!

# 4 - Have your child find a series or author that interests THEM!

# 5 - Create a special reading area in your house or outside for your child to enjoy their time with the book. Build a fort, read in a treehouse, etc.

Any other ideas or suggestions?

I would love to hear what works for you!!

My Target Finds Last Week

2011-07-07T06:29:00.000-07:00

I have seen a lot of others (mainly teachers) "show-n-tell" about their Target and or dollar store finds. Since I came across some great stuff I thought I would share in case you can find any of this at your local stores. The pictures from above are the items I bought from Target:

1. Dr. Seuss erasers. I also bought these last year and gave them to my students during Dr. Seuss Week. They were a big hit with the kids, and for less than $0.20 each I didn't think they were a bad grab either!

2. Totes. These work perfectly during centers or if you have your students grouped at tables. Stick some scissors, glue, and pencils inside and your students will have easy access to supplies.

3. A pocket chart...great for so many things!

4. Bingo games. These games were only $1 each. Can you believe it? I grabbed one of each of the choices. (Math Bingo - addition, subtraction, multiplication, & division practice, Alphabet Bingo - see # 5 and Time Bingo - which turned out to be more advanced than the suggested 5+ age on on the box. In first grade, we are only responsible to teach whole and half hour times, while this game works with all time. Perfect for the older grades though!)

5. Sample cards from the Alphabet Bingo (as mentioned above). I think this game might have been my favorite find. The game works with beginning, middle and final word sounds, along with naming the missing letter from the sequence. Perfect for a center!

6. File Bin. These are great to use for storing and organizing all kinds of things, but I plan to use mine for organizing my personal books. Even though these bins were $2.50 each, I still thought they were a great deal for getting organized the way I want!

Framed Art for Just $1

2011-07-06T10:05:00.000-07:00

Super cute right?

Would you believe this only cost $1 to make? This 4x6 picture frame was at the dollar store and the {free} printable is from It Works for Me! I love this quote. It's such a great reminder (and teaching tool for your kids) that not everything has to be brand new to be great!

Thank A Coach (or Teacher) with a SOBE!

2011-07-05T07:18:00.000-07:00

I thought this idea was worth sharing. My husband received this Sobe drink from a player on his softball team. The same idea would also work for a teacher appreciation gift though!

Let Freedom RING!

2011-07-03T15:25:00.000-07:00

I made my way to the dollar store this weekend and walked away with this (and some other finds, but that will have to wait)....

Inspired by this find at Fiskars....

I created these bad boys....

My kids are going to hand these Ring Pops out to their cousins tomorrow at our family 4th of July get together! The glow sticks will be for later that evening....simple, easy, inexpensive and the kids will love them. Can't go wrong!

Patriotic Wreaths

2011-06-30T15:53:00.000-07:00

I have seen a lot of patriotic wreath ideas floating around out there so I thought I would share my findings... And it's not too late, you still have a few days to make one!
Young and Crafty created this square wreath out of...can you believe...newspaper!?! I love that the wreath is square, first of all, making it already different than most, but also how creative the concept is. Oh and let's not forget, basically free to make as well!

This next one from Bacon Time with the Hungry Hypo I thought was clever too. The flip flop at the bottom definitely helps to give it that summer time feel!

BUT I also love this {balloon} wreath she won from Bugaboo, Mini Mr. & Me.

This garland and pinwheel wreath comes from The Jubilee Circus.

I love how Annie from Behind Our Front Door totally made up her wreath as she went along with it. Sometimes those kind of crafts turn out the best!

This American Flag wreath is made from yarn and comes from The Creative Imperative.

I am a sucker for tulle. I think tying a tulle bow around a gift makes it look that much better, so I might just have to make myself one of these from It's A Muegge Life.

I hope this post goes to show you that wreaths (or most crafts for that matter) can be cheap, easy, beautiful and original! Now what are you waiting for? Head to your local craft store (or look around the house) and get busy making your own!

More Red, White, & Blue Food

2011-06-30T06:32:00.000-07:00

Here are some more great food ideas for you to bring to your 4th of July BBQ!
How about starting the day off right with a 4th of July breakfast from Be Different Act Normal.

I love this healthy idea, using fruit kabobs to create the American flag. Idea from The Englands.

Fresh Cut got creative with this flag Jell-o!

Amazing flag cake from Crafty Mama:

This next flag cake comes from Ladybird Ln. The outside of the cake has fireworks....

and the inside looks like the American flag!

White chocolate dipped strawberries from J & M's Eye Candy.

*On a side note, I am still super frustrated with the whole comment thing from Blogger. I like to leave comments for people when I see something I like. You know, show some Blogger love, but I am still not able to on all blogs. It seems I either have to leave my comment from "anonymous" or if I get lucky, on some blogs (not all) it leaves me signed in so I can leave a comment as myself. If I have to try to sign in on my "google account" to leave the comment, it won't allow me to do so. It just continues to log me out and around and around it goes. Am I the only one this is happening to or am I suddenly not doing something right? I have even changed up my blog's comment settings to allow "anonymous" comments in case others are dealing with this same issue. HELP!!

Red, White & Blue Treats

2011-06-29T06:54:00.000-07:00

The 4th of July is right around the corner...Monday to be more exact. Do you have any BIG plans? Well since BBQs on the 4th are almost as American as the fireworks, what are you bringing to your BBQ? Here are a few red, white and & blue ideas to get you feeling a little more patriotic...
OH. MY. GOODNESS! I so LOVE these firework cookies from Red Couch Recipes. They are so cool looking!!

Cupcake Kabobs from The Cupcake Activist.

These Rice Krispie Treat Flags from Simply Designing look like a fun way to get the kids involved.

Brownie Cheesecake from Sun Scholars.

An American flag lemonade cake from Bebe A La Mode Designs.

Star Cookies from Nestle, topped with strawberries and blueberries...making them a healthy choice of course! ;)

And finally, Chocolate Peanut Butter Cupcakes from Food, Folks, and Fun. Not because they look patriotic, but because they look completely irresistible!

OUTDOOR Summer Activities

2011-06-26T17:42:00.000-07:00

Ok so let's be serious. My last post was about indoor summer activities, but in truth my kids want nothing more than to be outside playing. That is, unless it becomes too hot and then we have to refer to the indoor activities posted about before. As promised...here are some OUTSIDE activities to get your kids playing and keep them busy!
Teach your kids about primary and secondary colors using food coloring & water inside of water guns! My (younger) kids have really been loving water coloring lately and I know they would get a kick out of this! Thanks My Little Princess World for such a great idea!!

She Wears Flowers came up with this homemade DIY sprinkler system. I might just have to make a trip to Home Depot this week!

How about having a sail boat race!?! Alphamom suggests a different approach...make your own {ice cube}boats.

Here are a few more ideas...Use what works for you and your kids. These ideas might vary depending on where you live and the ages of your kids!

*Wash the car.

*Have a lemonade stand.

*Take your own "field trip" and see things around your town you might not have before.

*Go on a {service} scavenger hunt. Make sure a grown up goes too and go in a neighborhood you are familiar with!

*Go on a picnic.

*Have a dog show.

*Go to a water park.

*Have a cook out...marshmallows and hotdogs (or tin foil dinners) with a real fire!

*Go camping, hiking, or on a nature walk.

*Have a family game night or movie night.

*Play night games (my kids do this all the time...kick the can and all!)

*Plant a garden

*Dig for worms/collect insects.

No worries....more ideas and activities to come. For now though, have a FUN summer!!

INDOOR Summer Activities for the Kids

2011-06-24T16:31:00.000-07:00

I love summer! It's great to sleep in, let go of the schedules and just hang out with my own kids for a few months. Truthfully, come May I begin looking forward to summer, but by August I am ready for the routine of school to start up again. Any of you feel the same way?
With all the fun that comes during the summer months, it can also be challenging to entertain kids, especially if your kids have ever used the phrase, "Mom, I'm bored!" A few back up plans might be handy to have on hand, if you want to keep your kids happy and yourself sane! Here are a few great INDOOR ideas I have come across...perfect for when the weather is bad or just too hot to be outside.
Make homemade bouncy balls from Making Memories:

Homemade Moon Sand (made with real sand!) from Home Spun Threads:

Also from Home Spun Threads, these make your own pet cages. This would be right up my son's alley!

Get crafty by turning your old toothbrush into a bracelet by Two Girls Being Crafty:

A few more on the list...

*Build a fort to read books in.

*Play hide & go seek.

*Watercolor pictures, or if you don't like a mess (although it is easy to clean), try the paint books where you paint over with the paper with water and watch the colors appear. I saw one of these last week at Walmart!

*Play dough...you could even try making your own with the kids!

*Have a game day.

*Make popsicles or try out a new recipe.

*Bake sugar cookies and decorate them.

*Have a pillow fight.

*Tie dye or puffy paint shirts.

*Paper mache - make & decorate a mask or a pinata.

OUTSIDE ideas for your kids coming soon....

**Question for my readers...I have thought about doing linky parties at the end of posts before. The only problem is that I am not sure how to do it. Is it free to do? Is it beneficial to you (the reader)? Does it make it any easier to find what you are looking for? Any suggestions?? You'd think I would know this by now!

Summer Reading

2011-06-21T08:05:00.000-07:00

Sorry that it has been about a week since I posted anything here. My family took a much needed vacation last week and it was great to get away and spend time together doing nothing but playing. We returned Sunday and yesterday I came down with the flu and spent the whole day in bed. I HATE getting the flu (not that anyone enjoys it!), but the timing couldn't have been better...at least we were home.
Anyway, I hope you all had a great Father's Day and maybe even were able to find something useful on my blog to give?!?
I have come across some summer ideas and activities for you kids, but I thought I would start by featuring this great reading incentive that came from Brown Paper Packages.

Basically, each child is given a bucket with their name on it. {You could use another approach depending on what works best for you...a basket, bag, box, etc.} Time is set aside each day for the family to sit down and read. As each person attains their goal (either 20 minutes of reading or a book read), they earn a tag to place in their bucket. Each week the kids are rewarded for their reading efforts and the prizes get larger as the weeks go on. Kierste has even suggested a list of books broken down into two categories; 4-7 and 8+. Check it out for all the details and for FREE downloads of the tags.
For my kids, I have enrolled them in our public library's reading program. Once a week they have story time with various programs and activities throughout the summer. The library set a goal for young kids to read/have read to 10 books a week, while the older kids (8-11) have to read 50 pages a week. Kids 12 and older are asked to read 100 pages a week. To get my older son excited about reading, I bought him the Percy Jackson series and told him he has to complete the series by the time school starts again. He is excited to do this only because of the books he now has to read.
Barnes and Noble also has a summer reading program. Your child has to read 8 books and write them down on the chart they give you and then they earn a free book.
As a teacher, I know how important it is for kids to continue reading over the summer. Make it fun and exciting so they will want to read and then it won't seem like such a chore.

What are you doing with your kids to keep them reading over the summer??

Father's Day Subway Art

2011-06-12T17:57:00.000-07:00

I love Subway Art! It seems to be one of the hottest trends right now and lucky for us there seems to be lot of it on the Internet. What's great about that is you can either print the download and print it straight from your computer or develop it as a picture. Either way you like, the result is very cute! Here are a few Father's Day Subway Art I have come across lately. Pick out one of these that works for you, print, frame and enjoy!
From Craftionary a {5x7 or 7x5}display of the word Father in various languages:

For a larger selection {2 designs 17 color choices to be exact} visit Today's Fabulous Finds:

Family Subway Art from The Crafting Chicks (4 color options):

From Pink Ink Doodle:

From Perfect Expressions:

By the way, is anyone else having a hard time posting comments on others' blogs or even mine? As of lately, I have tried leaving comments for others and sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn't. Not sure if it's my account or something to do with Blogger. Just wondering...

I-Dad I-Pad Card

2011-06-11T21:19:00.000-07:00

Charlotte's Fancy came up with this clever idea for a Father's Day card. It looks as though it would take a little time to complete, but the results look amazing. Super cute!

FREE Customized Father's Day Card

2011-06-11T09:35:00.000-07:00

Want to know what I just did...for FREE? I just made a customized Father's Day card thru Tiny Prints.

Today through Monday

TINY PRINTS

is offering a FREE personalized Father's Day card

{including the shipping & no additional purchases necessary}

Check out the various Father's Day designs they have to offer. Add your own captions, photos and details!

Enter promo code: FREEFD at the checkout

Offer expires Monday, June 13, 2011

Some Sweets for Father's Day

2011-06-10T16:54:00.000-07:00

Thinking of giving something sweet to your dad/hubby/father-in-law this Father's Day? Here are a few cupcake ideas to get you thinking...
For the golfer in your life, golf cupcakes from Mega Crafty:

Fishing cupcakes from Nothing But Country:

FREE super dad cupcake toppers from Joyful Creations:

Have a sweet idea you would like to see featured here? Leave a comment and let me know! I'd love to see what you have cookin' up!

Father's Day Card Ideas

2011-06-08T14:15:00.000-07:00

Since homemade gifts seem to be the best thing to give/receive I thought I would post a few Father's Day card ideas to get your homemade ideas going. Here are a few...

From Can't Stop Making Things...a tux card:

A Super Dad "cape" to use as a tag for a drink. Free download included thanks to Lizard & Ladybug.

A shirt with gift certificates in the pocket. The gift certificates can be found and printed from What the Teacher Wants if you don't feel like coming up with your own.

Free printable cards from The Mombot. I love the one that says Real Men Have Kids! LOL The other card is one that your kids can help create by drawing a picture and listing reasons why they think their dad is #1.

A faux tape measure from Family Fun:

Father's Day Gift Card Wallets

2011-06-07T10:01:00.000-07:00

Although I seem to be on a roll with door decoration ideas for Teacher Appreciation Week, I am taking a break and turning some attention towards Father's Day. This idea came from Whatever Dee Dee Wants.
If the man in your life (or father-in-law...as they seem to have everything they already need!) are somewhat difficult to shop for, why not find a gift certificate to give instead. I figure you can't go wrong with money or gift cards as gifts! Find a gift card to his favorite restaurant (hey you can get a date out of it!), clothing store, hardware store or even movie theatre. Once you figure out what card you are going to include as your gift, whip up one of these card holder wallets!

Home Depot Door Decoration

2011-06-06T13:35:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I feel that male teachers can be more difficult to do things for. It can be hard to show appreciation in a way that is not too cutesy or girly. You know what I mean?? Well I have to say that I LOVE this idea for decorating a MALE teacher's door during Teacher Appreciation week! The best part is that I am sure Home Depot would be willing to donate all or most of the items you would need for the door.
The close up...

Looking from down the hall...

These ideas came from reader, Cindy Wilkinson. She sent me lots of great pictures of the doors from her school so I will be sharing more! Thanks Cindy for letting us see what's going on at your school!!

Using Reese's Pieces For Door Decorations

2011-06-06T12:50:00.000-07:00

Using Reese's Pieces candy as a theme for Teacher Appreciation Week seems to be a popular idea. Many doors have used this theme and can you blame anyone? Simple + cute = perfect! I have included several pictures so that you can get a good idea....
We love _________ to Pieces! Glue pictures of the students inside of a yellow, orange or brown circle (Reese's Pieces)

Door Decoration Ideas

2011-06-05T11:10:00.000-07:00

From reader Alicia (thru e-mail) I was sent the following door decoration ideas...
The students' faces were punched out {in a circle} and glued to an apple. Apples look like they were probably purchased through a teacher store or website because of the red and green color as seen. (They may have been part of a bulletin board set too.) If you are on a budget, you could try punching out your own apples on a die cut machine or Cricut cutter.

Another idea Alicia suggested, but she didn't have a picture for was the following idea:

"The one that I don't have a picture of was called "A bunch of us think you're grape." Each student had their picture in a grape. The grapes were bunched along with twisty tendrils and the sun.

Thanks Alicia for sharing!!

Door/Bulletin Board Idea

2011-05-31T15:35:00.000-07:00

I have been thinking about what to post about this summer. That's right...SUMMER!! I honestly have pages and pages of ideas to still share with you readers, but for some reason during the summer months my brain has a hard time thinking about school (at least 24-7). For the next couple weeks I will probably be featuring some Father's Day ideas, but after that I think I want to post about some craft ideas I have had tucked away and more on door decorations. Teacher Appreciation week is always so busy for me that I never have enough time to post all of the ideas you send me. I would love to play catch up with all those great pictures and feature as many as I can! This summer I would also really like to connect with my readers. I would love to figure out how to work my facbook page so that it will update my readers about when/what I make posts about on my blog. I have seen it from others but need to figure it out. Any ideas or suggestions on that, please let me know!!
I recently had a reader, Hannah, send me some pictures of 2 doors she decorated at a day care center she works at. When I saw these pictures I thought of how perfect they would make a back to school bulletin board! Especially with the students' personal touches...handprints!

An up close look at the sea creatures...

Here is the other door:

And the aliens...

Thank you Hannah for sending these pictures my way and for thinking of my blog to feature your idea. Good luck with schooling and becoming a teacher!!
As for my readers...what kinds of things are you interested in finding on my blog this summer? I would love to know what you are thinking!!

Summer Project...72 Hour Kits

2011-05-27T12:38:00.000-07:00

Well it is official...summer is here! I spent most of yesterday being lazy and lounging around my house in PJ's with my kids all day and it felt GREAT!! Even though summer is here, I have a list of projects that I want to work on...crafts, preparing for next school year, organizing things around the house, becoming more healthy (you know...fruits and veggies!), camping and spending time with the family, making a (blue jean) quilt and putting together 72 hour kits for my family from How Does She?

Although it seems a bit overwhelming to just jump into I know that it is essential that I feel prepared. I plan to check out the dollar store/Target dollar spot, etc. to look for some of these items. I also know that I don't have to buy everything at once...a gradual process. One tip a friend gave me on this idea is to buy the backpacks in September...after school has started and they go on sale. To find a list of items that were put in (Missy's) backpacks, click on the link above. She has done a great job at breaking everything down and explaining why having a 72 hour pack ready in a great idea.

End of the Year Gift

2011-05-18T18:14:00.000-07:00

The school year is coming to an end which means CrAzY, cRaZy, CrAzY! Summer officially begins in one week, which is hard to believe considering today we had rain, hail and SNOW (that actually stuck to the ground for a while)! What a day!!
I created an end of the year teacher gift for my daughter's teacher. If you have never tried out WORDLE, you totally should! I had my daughter list all the things she could think of pertaining to this school year.

I really like the wordle puzzles where the words are going both horizontal and vertical, but this was my daughter's project and she created it the way she wanted.

So...where to begin? Here is a step by step of what to do:

1. Go to WORDLE

2. Click on create.

3. Type in a list of words you want into the box. One word or phrase per line. When you are done click on GO and your project will appear.

4. From here you can edit your wordle puzzle...the direction of the words, font, colors, etc.

5. Print your wordle and trim your paper down to 8 x 10. (If you want your wordle in a 5x7 frame, reduce your wordle on a copy machine first. Get a frame and you are done!

For FAQ click on the link, otherwise these were some tips I found very helpful...

*All words will be the same size of font, unless you type the same word multiple times. For example, if I were typing up words that described my family, but wanted my last name to really stand out, I would type my last name 2 or 3 times so that it would appear 2-3 times larger than the other words.

*If you want 2 or more words side by side in your wordle, add a ~ between each word. (Mr. Smith would look like Mr.~Smith)

*I saved my word list on Microsoft Word so that I could edit anything I didn't like or change it up. Just a suggestion because it's better be to safe than sorry right!?!

Hope this idea helps out. This would also make for a great Mother's Day/Father's Day gift!