Although some may regard art education as a luxury, simple creative activities are some of the building blocks of child development. Learning to create and appreciate visual aesthetics is important to the development of our children as the grow up. Remember, what your children do with art is more important than what is made. *************** Learning in… Read More
A mix of sun and shade in woodland areas helps support plants that provide food for animals like bears, deer, rodents, squirrels and many types of birds. The woodlands also provide enough shade and tree protection to house nocturnal animals like owls and raccoons. I enjoy living adjacent to an oak woodland, and many of the… Read More
Mathematics reveals hidden patterns that help us understand the world around us. And, although the language of mathematics is based on rules that must be learned, it is important that children be encouraged to move beyond memorizing basic algorithms. In order to support opportunities for critical thinking about mathematics, our problem solving focus has made a… Read More
One of the valuable ways to support your children’s healthy development is as easy as opening the door and going outside. There is no question that regular, frequent opportunities to play outdoors help support the development of our children’s cognitive, social and physical development. Going outdoors, in the fresh air—whether on a windy, cold winter day or… Read More
TRIANGLES Rising above all the other triangles is a special type of triangle…the equilateral triangle! What are its super powers? Let’s look at its name. Equi means equal. Lateral means sides. So, an equilateral triangle has three equal sides and three equal angles, therefore, it can do what no other triangle can. Equilateral Triangles aren’t just mathematically significant, they are… Read More
Take advantage of the magic of nature—in your own backyard or on a walk. THE HIKE Written and illustrated by Allison Farrell “Utterly satisfying” Kirkus Three friends take a hike. Wren brings a sketchbook and a flag, El brings a poetry notebook, and Hattie brings feathers and holds Bean, the dog’s, leash. Hiking is their “favorite… Read More
“The Sneetches” is a wonderful story and a perfect example that really pin-points how ridiculous discrimination really is. This book is about discrimination based not on religion or race, but on belly stars. ********************************************************************* The Sneetches by Dr. Seuss is an excellent book for discussing issues of discrimination based not on religion or race, but on… Read More
Too often we give children the answers to remember rather the problems to solve. No matter the ages of your children, mathematical concepts can be shared and explored. Most of the math activities, puzzles, games that I share, intentionally do not fit into a grade-level pigeonholes. Experience math concepts through play. *************** Matchstick Puzzle There are… Read More
“Forest Has a Song” offers an opportunity to combine our love of natural places with poetry. Consider using this dear book as a springboard for writing a Mask Poem with your children. A mask poem is one that is written from the point of view of an animal, an object or even a person. Honor a… Read More
Hummingbirds are the tiniest of birds with super powers – flying backwards, upside-down and floating in mid-air Hummingbirds have a long history of folklore and symbolism in native cultures. … In Native American culture, hummingbirds are seen as healers and bringers of love, good luck and joy. They are a joy to behold. ****************** And now,… Read More
