Feedback

Well, the summer is coming to an end!  We were a little busier than I thought we would be, so I apologize for only doing a few posts within the last 3 months.  Hopefully we can get back into a good routine, and I will blog more!

I don't even know if anyone still reads this blog or does the activities, but if you do, I would love some feedback from you!  My oldest son Sawyer has started 3 year old Pre-K every day for 1/2 a day.  Of course, I will still work with him at home on different subjects, but the majority of his teaching/learning will come from school.  I now have the mornings to work with my almost 2 year old.  I can continue to create lessons for Sawyer's age (3-5 year olds) that will become increasingly more challenging, or I can shift the focus back to toddlers and start on that level.  I can also try to do activities that are adaptable to multiple ages.  What do your children need/want?

Also, what format do you prefer? I can stick with the "summer thinking" style and have a specific subject focus for each day, or I can go back to the weekly themes.  I can even try something new.  Thoughts???

I want this to be a blog that is beneficial for you and your kiddos, so I would love your input.  Be honest, and let me know what you think...if you are still out there! :)

Thanks,
Jennifer

Summer Thinking - Week #4

Mighty Math Monday: Pattern Block Pictures
Math Objectives:
* To identify shapes
* To match shapes to their picture representation
* To create pictures using shapes

Materials:
* Pattern Block Mats from PreKinders
* Paper Pattern Blocks Printable from Teacher Vision (if needed)
* Pattern Blocks

Procedure:

* Print out as many pattern block mat pictures as you want.  I have lots of pattern blocks from my teaching days, but if you do not have any, you can print and cut some out from the link above.  Have your child match each shape to create the pictures.  Allow them to say what shapes they are using on each page.  They can even create their own images by putting the shapes together in different ways.

Totally Technical Tuesday: PBS Kids.org
Technology Objectives:
* To explore the PBS Kids website
* To work on clicking and dragging skills with the mouse

Materials:
* PBSKids.org Website
* Computer or IPad

Procedure:
* Go to the PBS Kids Website and allow your child to explore the different games, printables, videos, and activities on the site.  This is a fantastic learning page for kids that focuses on many academic concepts! Some of Sawyer's favorites are Sid the Science Kid, The Cat in the Hat, and Super Why.

Wacky Word Wednesday: Writing Practice
Language Objectives:
* To practice writing skills
* To hold a pencil correctly
* To use the fine motor skills involved with writing

Materials:
* Printables from Hand Writing Worksheets
* pencil

Procedure:

* Go to the website and personalize your own writing pages.  I did Sawyer's name and the letters of the alphabet to start with.  Print them out and help your child work on first tracing the letters and then writing them on their own.  Make sure they hold the pencil correctly.  Show your child the arrows by the letters to help them write in the correct directions.

Thoroughly Thoughtful Thursday: Back Pack Buddies
Social Skills Objectives:
* To understand the importance of giving to others
* To purchase school supplies for children in your area
* To understand that God calls us to give to those in need

Materials:
* all of the school supplies listed according to the school and grade you are shopping for

Procedure:
* Each year our family supports a ministry called Back Pack Buddies through our church.  We purchase school supplies and back packs for a little girl and a little boy before school starts.  This is a wonderful way to teach our kiddos about giving to those in need.  I know there are lots of ministries out there just like this one, so hopefully you can find one in your community.  If you do not have the time to shop for the supplies, a money donation is always welcomed, as well.  We bought the supplies at Walmart because they usually have all of the supplies on the lists.

Fantastically Fun Friday: Museum Field Trip
Fun Objectives:
* To understand what a museum is and how there are lots of learning opportunities there
* To explore a museum and participate in activities

Materials:
* Museum in your area - Association of Children's Museums

Procedure:
* Go on a field trip to a museum in your community.  Museums are fantastic learning environments for everyone.  We love the Mayborn Children's Museum here in Waco.  It's designed specifically for kids with themed rooms and activities for lots of ages.  Here are some pictures from our latest visit with our playgroup friends: