tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23439896568597225772024-02-19T21:29:32.731-05:00Creative Preschool Time Your go-to place to find activities for kids, crafts, games, new products and so much more!Kiddobloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16562732390669654269noreply@blogger.comBlogger142125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2343989656859722577.post-78148505316960072292024-01-09T15:50:00.001-05:002024-01-09T15:50:36.516-05:00National Soup Month<div class="MsoNormal">“Soup’s on” in January as we celebrate National Soup Month. Keep the “brrr” cold outside and warm the tummy with delicious hot soup. This meal-in-a-bowl can combine a multitude of food groups, providing a potent serving of nutrients in each spoonful. Here are a few ideas to make “soup” a fun meal!</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="DefaultText" style="text-align: justify;"><span class="InitialStyle"><b>SOUP MAT:<o:p></o:p></b></span></div><div class="DefaultText" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="DefaultText" style="text-align: justify;"><span class="InitialStyle">It's nice to have a placemat under your bowl of hot soup. Why not create your own "soup mat" using real vegetables. Give each child a sheet of light colored construction paper. Gather vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, celery, potatoes, corn-on-the-cob, pea pods and more.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="DefaultText" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="DefaultText" style="text-align: justify;"><span class="InitialStyle">Prepare paint pads by placing a folded paper towel into shallow pans. Pour the tempera (poster) paints on top. The artist can dip the cut vegetable in the paint and then press down onto the placemat paper to make a print. Continue printing all types of vegetables using colors of orange, green, yellow, brown and white.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="DefaultText" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="DefaultText" style="text-align: justify;"><span class="InitialStyle">When the sheet is completely dry, cover the mat with a sheet of clear adhesive plastic. The "soup mat" can be wiped clean and used over and over again.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="DefaultText" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="DefaultText" style="text-align: justify;"><span class="InitialStyle">NOTE: Have each child personalize their mat with their name, and favorite soup names before laminating it.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="DefaultText" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="DefaultText" style="text-align: justify;"><span class="InitialStyle"><b>TOP IT:<o:p></o:p></b></span></div><div class="DefaultText" style="text-align: justify;"><span class="InitialStyle"><b><br />
</b></span></div><div class="DefaultText" style="text-align: justify;"><span class="InitialStyle">The fun of soup is what's floating on top. Here are a few favorite garnishes:<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="DefaultText" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="DefaultText" style="text-align: justify;"><span class="InitialStyle">*star shaped croutons (toasted bread)<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="DefaultText" style="text-align: justify;"><span class="InitialStyle">*Goldfish crackers<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="DefaultText" style="text-align: justify;"><span class="InitialStyle">*oyster crackers<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="DefaultText" style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgERg1zj5fM8DsjyIrnOCFSPImIyol_J2KEqB1Vvg3XQZm26tB9gj9MQeUaXQuejjeadwNIhRPR31LPUhIb1xmIdtsFPLsacMqKos3u0NjKMETm43O2uchzsYjnDC1Ha3XquL8e0ytEKrxL/s1600/rsz_cn0013-160.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgERg1zj5fM8DsjyIrnOCFSPImIyol_J2KEqB1Vvg3XQZm26tB9gj9MQeUaXQuejjeadwNIhRPR31LPUhIb1xmIdtsFPLsacMqKos3u0NjKMETm43O2uchzsYjnDC1Ha3XquL8e0ytEKrxL/s320/rsz_cn0013-160.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><span class="InitialStyle">*bacon bits <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="DefaultText" style="text-align: justify;"><span class="InitialStyle">*bagel chips<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="DefaultText" style="text-align: justify;"><span class="InitialStyle">*crumbled tortilla chips<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="DefaultText" style="text-align: justify;"><span class="InitialStyle">*dollops of yogurt or sour cream (make a smile face)<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="DefaultText" style="text-align: justify;"><span class="InitialStyle">*grated Parmesan or Cheddar cheese<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="DefaultText" style="text-align: justify;"><span class="InitialStyle">*sesame seeds<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="DefaultText" style="text-align: justify;"><span class="InitialStyle">*fresh snipped herbs (use a kitchen scissors)<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="DefaultText" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="InitialStyle"><b>“SOUP”ER TRIVIA:<o:p></o:p></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="InitialStyle"><b><br />
</b></span></div><div class="DefaultText" style="text-align: justify;"><span class="InitialStyle">*Americans consume more than 12 billion bowls or soup each year. January is the most popular month.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="DefaultText" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="DefaultText" style="text-align: justify;"><span class="InitialStyle">*Three most popular soups are Chicken Noodle, Cream of Mushroom and Tomato soup.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="DefaultText" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="DefaultText" style="text-align: justify;"><span class="InitialStyle">*In one year, Campbell's uses 1 million miles of noodles in its chicken noodle soup, enough to circle the equator approximately 40 times.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="DefaultText" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="DefaultText" style="text-align: justify;"><span class="InitialStyle">*Campbell uses more than 44 billion stars each year in its chicken & stars soup. In three years, Campbell produces more stars than are in the Milky Way.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="DefaultText" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="DefaultText" style="text-align: justify;"><span class="InitialStyle">*In one year Campbell produces almost 11 billion letters for its alphabet soup.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="DefaultText" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="DefaultText" style="text-align: justify;"><span class="InitialStyle"><b>TRIVIA COURTESY OF CAMPBELL'S SOUP COMPANY<o:p></o:p></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="DefaultText" style="text-align: justify;">Photo courtesy of <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/archive/display/34597" target="_blank">Clarita</a></div><div class="DefaultText" style="text-align: justify;">Previously posted on Caring For Kids</div><div class="DefaultText" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div>Kiddobloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16562732390669654269noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2343989656859722577.post-64956722299560702582023-12-06T07:25:00.000-05:002023-12-06T07:25:00.875-05:00Best Ever Hanukkah Songs for Children<style>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMLApqLtbY8XpwejBMopiSHMnDfyl8RLj0VaA5r9EPpLdMT_NVgAZ1H7A3KfSd7OgsGkN8Rr-YvOJ81O-tTJJavVYqHXMP81atnJAQypy4oeP581cDJTmNh9eILDV5z7nHmgu8DYxFowuD/s1600/11111881306_48d4c07857_z.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMLApqLtbY8XpwejBMopiSHMnDfyl8RLj0VaA5r9EPpLdMT_NVgAZ1H7A3KfSd7OgsGkN8Rr-YvOJ81O-tTJJavVYqHXMP81atnJAQypy4oeP581cDJTmNh9eILDV5z7nHmgu8DYxFowuD/s320/11111881306_48d4c07857_z.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Hanukkah begins before Christmas on December 7th. Get in the holiday spirit as children and caregivers sing
these simple Hanukkah songs. Let the children learn that holidays are a special
time for singing together.</div>
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<b>The Menorah and its Candles</b></div>
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Today Jewish families celebrate the miracle by lighting one
candle for each of the eight days of Hanukkah. A special candlestick called the
menorah is used.</div>
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Hanukkah Candles (Tune: "Six Little Ducks")</div>
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Nine little candles in my Hanukkah light,</div>
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Burning brightly throughout the night.</div>
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But one little candle is taller than the rest,</div>
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We call that candle the Shamash.</div>
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<br /></div>
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We light the candles one by one,</div>
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We play with dreidels and have some fun.</div>
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We dance the hora and tell the story,</div>
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Of Judah Maddabbee and his glory.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>Potato Pancakes, known as Latkes</b></div>
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During the celebration of Hanukkah, a characteristic food
called latkes, or potato pancakes is served. These pancakes are fried in oil,
to represent the holy oil used in the Temple.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Little Latkes (Tune: "I'm a Little Teapot")</div>
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I'm a little latke, round and brown,</div>
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Here is my upside, here is my down.</div>
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When I am all ready, take a bite,</div>
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And eat me up on Hanukkah night.</div>
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<b>The Dreidel</b></div>
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<br /></div>
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A nonreligious symbol of Hanukkah is the dreidel. Children
find this toy top a fun game to play during this holiday.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Spin the Dreidel (Tune: "Row, Row, Row Your Boat")</div>
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Spin, spin, spin the dreidel,</div>
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Spin it round and round.</div>
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Wait to see what letter comes up,</div>
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And the prize which you have found.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Even children who are not Jewish can begin to appreciate
other cultures and faiths, by sharing this Hanukkah story and singing these fun
songs. Children learn at an early age that singing is another way to use their
voice. These easy piggyback songs kids can sing enhances learning with verse
that young children can understand.</div>
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<br /></div>
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NOTE: Authors Unknown for all songs.</div>
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Photo courtesy of <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/davidmarcel/11111881306/" target="_blank">Flickr</a></div>
Kiddobloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16562732390669654269noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2343989656859722577.post-36417102578769877632023-11-24T14:51:00.000-05:002023-11-24T14:51:30.599-05:00December Holiday Garland Craft<style>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx2TEWq9xODPY2xhGKc-gbWOsxGSjxFmigIeaPEMXx_Op-hvVYRGcrkYQlwVC-OpaMIn8FBORiSCY_x04dRV7LEYcuAaFomVtq1yDLTx7Ma_r3W7QN2bReMqh_-8df7l8_YgfW4ptwspWk/s1600/Kids+garland.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx2TEWq9xODPY2xhGKc-gbWOsxGSjxFmigIeaPEMXx_Op-hvVYRGcrkYQlwVC-OpaMIn8FBORiSCY_x04dRV7LEYcuAaFomVtq1yDLTx7Ma_r3W7QN2bReMqh_-8df7l8_YgfW4ptwspWk/s1600/Kids+garland.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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Children love the holidays and these crafts are adaptable to suit three different holidays. Surprise your group with a fun holiday craft this month. These crafts
can be multicultural by just changing the colors. Be it red & green for
Christmas, blue & white for Hanukkah, or red, green & black for
Kwanzaa—adapt these crafts for your holiday!</div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>Multicultural Children Garlands:</b></div>
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<br /></div>
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These garlands can be strung along a wall or across a
doorway.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Use
brown grocery bags that you have stored from shopping.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dress the children cutouts in the
colors of your holiday.</div>
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<br /></div>
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These are simple paper-doll instructions. Start by cutting a
5-by-4-inch strip from a grocery bag.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Next, fold the strip of paper, accordion-style, about four times.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On the top layer, draw a child shape.
You can draw this freehand or trace around a child or gingerbread cookie
cutter. The hands and feet you draw must extend out to the folded edges.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Cut through all layers of the paper,
making sure not to cut where the arms touch the fold. Young children may need
help with this task. The decorating is the fun.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Cut clothing from gift-wrap or construction paper.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Draw in shoes, hair, faces, and any
extras with markers, puffy paints, or gel pens.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For texture you can glue on pom-poms, buttons, or pieces of
fur.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let your child’s imagination
run wild.<br />
<br />
<b>Holiday Wreath:</b></div>
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<br /></div>
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Use your child's hands to make this holiday wreath. From a piece of cardboard, cut a 12-inch circle (a pizza box lid or
carton works well).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Again cut
another 3-inch circle in the center to complete the wreath. A craft knife is
useful to make the cuts but only by an adult. Invite your child to paint the
entire cardboard wreath with poster paint in the color of your holiday. After
the paint dries, have the child make handprints on the wreath. Brush the
child’s hand with a different color paint and press the hand down on the board.
Continue to print handprints around the wreath in a circular fashion. </div>
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<br /></div>
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For another option, trace hands on complementary-colored
stiff construction paper, cut out, decorate the hands if you wish, and glue
them around the circle.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Make a bow from fabric, crepe paper, large ribbons or
construction paper to decorate the bottom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Make sure to write the date on the back of this memorable
project.</div>
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<i>Have fun with these two crafts.</i><br />
<i>Happy Parenting,</i><br />
<i>Tania :)</i><br />
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<br /></div>
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<i>Photo courtesy of Tania Cowling, all rights reserved</i></div>
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<br /></div>
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<i>Note: if anyone wants to use any part of this post or any other one, please notify me for permission and make sure you provide a link back to this site. </i></div>
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<br /></div>
Kiddobloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16562732390669654269noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2343989656859722577.post-33833680008566092122023-11-01T07:05:00.000-04:002023-11-01T07:05:57.887-04:00Pumpkin Crafts for Kids: Harvest and Halloween Ideas<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4802jdodyn9BkQgkN7zHavzJDaNdZoRhbXWCE-7Ae5kAPzkUdzKUIfbcicCtwM7XR0c9LsS_hGOHV9OCJjx6Z1b31oy0aDHeMY5PY3keAR0pVcrJliqC4t3F0jcylTavuJv35SpTRwSBP/s1600/Pumpkin+Tissue+Paper+Collage.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4802jdodyn9BkQgkN7zHavzJDaNdZoRhbXWCE-7Ae5kAPzkUdzKUIfbcicCtwM7XR0c9LsS_hGOHV9OCJjx6Z1b31oy0aDHeMY5PY3keAR0pVcrJliqC4t3F0jcylTavuJv35SpTRwSBP/s320/Pumpkin+Tissue+Paper+Collage.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">Pumpkins
are fun! Their size, color, smell and taste make them perfect for children's
observations and explorations. Pumpkins are a type of squash that symbolize
both the bright orange color and lead us into the spirit of the fall season.
This is the best time to experience the numerous possibilities of using
pumpkins during your "together time" activities. Your kids may
consider pumpkins only with Halloween and jack-o-lanterns; however, you can
de-emphasize the holiday connection and use this variety of pumpkin-related
activities for fall and harvest. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"><b>Pumpkin
Sun Catcher-</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">Place
a piece of adhesive paper down on the table sticky side up. You may need to
tape this in place. Encourage your child to tear and place pieces of red tissue
paper on one side and pieces of yellow tissue paper on the opposite side. When
finished, fold the paper in half and see what happens when the red and yellow
paper overlap. Cut a pumpkin shape from this now "orange" paper and
hang in a sunny window. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"><b>Popcorn
Painting-</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">Here's
a new experience in painting! Place a cup of unpopped popcorn into a nylon knee high
stocking and tie the nylon stocking in a knot. Holding the top end of the
stocking, dip the bottom (corn) into poster paint and then "bounce"
it onto paper. This makes a neat design and so complimentary to the season. Cut
the paper into a pumpkin shape and you now have a unique painting.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 19px;"><b>Pumpkin Mosaic - </b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">Give
your child a paper plate and orange construction paper. Let him tear pieces of
the orange paper (little ones really like to tear paper) and glue them onto the
plate. Help him brush on the glue and after he is finished you make want to
brush on a final layer to keep the pieces flat. Make a leaf shape from green or
brown paper and glue this on top to complete the pumpkin.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"><b>Pumpkin Prints - </b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">Buy
pumpkin cookie cutters and let your child dip these into tempera (poster paint)
and then press them onto paper. This makes really cool prints and good for
eye/hand coordination. As a variation, buy a small fresh pumpkin and cut this
in half. Invite your youngster to dip the pumpkin half into orange paint and
make a print.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">So, whether you use pumpkin projects for harvest or Halloween -- just have fun and do these activities with your children. It's the bonding time that really counts!</span><br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><i>Pumpkin photo property of Tania Cowling, all rights reserved</i></span></div>
Kiddobloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16562732390669654269noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2343989656859722577.post-48493798999134655092023-10-06T06:25:00.000-04:002023-10-06T06:25:04.923-04:00Halloween is Coming! Who Wants to Be Cinderella?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ3ybpxcpdMcAjQuCXSqq-mwEBfEftj8CdGPJ6tP0HuEoIjLIuWtQbZ8jzzrUtGvuV9NbBKYFnx0cZ9wFWf9tf358RcJCpjNfXDsOJ9fMZrbQ2uJSS9RSL9oio7YAUak0tyeDlabLb6iNp/s1600/Cinderella+Shoe.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ3ybpxcpdMcAjQuCXSqq-mwEBfEftj8CdGPJ6tP0HuEoIjLIuWtQbZ8jzzrUtGvuV9NbBKYFnx0cZ9wFWf9tf358RcJCpjNfXDsOJ9fMZrbQ2uJSS9RSL9oio7YAUak0tyeDlabLb6iNp/s320/Cinderella+Shoe.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 14pt;">How
many little girls dream of becoming a princess and little boys who want to be a
prince? The story of Cinderella, a young girl who unexpectedly becomes a maid
to her stepmother and stepsisters after her father dies, finds her way to the
gallant ball with a little help from her fairy Godmother.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 14pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 14pt;">But, at the stroke of midnight she must
leave the ball and her prince. This is a tale that many of us remember as
children. Today, this story comes alive with new movies to entertain us. The question remains: will the prince
find the lady who fits the glass slipper?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">This isn't a costume, but I’m
sure your little artists will enjoy making this craft. This simple project will
bring the story of Cinderella into your home. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Materials:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<ul>
<li>Card
stock paper (pink or your child’s favorite color)</li>
<li>Gray
construction paper (or white)</li>
<li>Safety
scissors</li>
<li>Heavy-duty
glue or low-temperature glue gun</li>
<li>Silver
enhancements (sequins, glitter, faux gems, foil)</li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Directions:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Step
1 – This cut and paste craft is not the messiest we have done before, but
covering your table with newspaper is wise to prevent glue from marring your
tabletop. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Step
2 – Invite your child to choose their favorite color for the background paper.
Using a heavier construction paper or card stock will give substantial weight
to hold the materials that the children will eventually glue on this page. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Step
3 -- Parents can draw the shape of a lady’s high heel shoe on gray or white
paper. Challenge your child to carefully cut on the lines to make this shape.
Then, glue the shoe to the background paper.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Step
4 – Now the fun begins, as your child will turn this paper shoe into a glass
slipper. Think about all the baubles that will give the illusion of shiny
glass. I took a trip to a craft store and purchased some clear faux gems and
silver sequins. At home, I had silver glitter and ran to the kitchen for some
heavy-duty aluminum foil. The foil can be cut into shiny circles or any other
shape your child desires.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Step
5 – Begin to glue the shiny enhancements randomly on the shoe shape. Use
glitter in between for sparkle. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Hang
the Cinderella slipper craft in your child’s room to remind your
princess/prince of this famous tale. This may be a good time to bring out the
classic book or video and review the story together. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Photo courtesy of Tania Cowling, all rights reserved</div>
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</style>Kiddobloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16562732390669654269noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2343989656859722577.post-7061790636798230702023-09-21T10:08:00.007-04:002023-09-21T10:13:18.872-04:00Popsicle Sticks as an Outlet for Kid Fun<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4ocHz-B1UvUIimDKy3QhNqkwxBY8go7V5odzxdOi1r3vrjwgKSAHui0w7YsSPWGxXcsSB491J-fNGo0HVLU9OckdMbdlJpp1K-7X0Mf5lWUO8Ex_W0uQYiqpWpIOky7XNm9xXKLOq9rJU/s1600/Teepee.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4ocHz-B1UvUIimDKy3QhNqkwxBY8go7V5odzxdOi1r3vrjwgKSAHui0w7YsSPWGxXcsSB491J-fNGo0HVLU9OckdMbdlJpp1K-7X0Mf5lWUO8Ex_W0uQYiqpWpIOky7XNm9xXKLOq9rJU/s1600/Teepee.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Popsicle sticks (aka craft sticks) can be used for crafts and games. Here are a few ideas I would like to share.<br />
<br />
Did you know?<br />
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>Eating a frozen Popsicle is still part of growing up in America just as
it was in the past.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Frank
Epperson, from California, invented and patented the “Epsicle” which later
became the “Popsicle.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In 1905,
when Epperson was just 11 years old, he mixed some soda water powder to
drink.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He accidentally left it
overnight on the back porch with the stirring stick inside.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That night the temperature dropped to a
record low causing this mixture to freeze.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Voila! The first “Epsicle!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Today, the Popsicle is manufactured by the Good
Humor-Breyers Ice Cream Company.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Popsicles come in a variety of fun shapes and flavors, now even offering
natural juices and no-sugar-added Pops.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Not only have Popsicles been treats for our children, the famous wooden
sticks are great resources for arts, crafts, games, and learning.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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CRAFT STICKS AND CRAYONS (crayons & Popsicle sticks)—</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Place Popsicle sticks, crayons and white paper on the
table.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Invite the children to make
designs on the paper by tracing around the sticks with their colorful
crayons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Teach your kids the art
of overlapping.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
POPSICLE FRAMES (Popsicle Sticks)—</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Glue Popsicle sticks into shapes, such as squares and
triangles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can even create a
star by laying one triangle on top of another.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Glue the sticks together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Trim a photograph to fit the inside of your frame and glue
this to the back of the frame.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As
a variation, you could glue a plain piece of heavy paper in place to be
colored, painted, or decorated inside the frame.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is an easy project to hang; just attach a loop of yarn
or ribbon to the top.</div>
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PICK-UP STICKS (Popsicle Sticks)—</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Use Popsicle sticks to play a game of pick-up sticks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is played just like pick-up sticks
except that when your turn is finished you have to add your sticks to that of
the person before you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let’s say
Mom was able to pick up five sticks before she moved any of the others.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then Bobby picked up three without
moving the rest of the sticks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Bobby would note that since Mom picked up five and he picked up three,
then there are eight sticks picked up so far.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Therefore, five plus three equals eight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If he gets it right, he gets Mom’s
sticks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If he gets it wrong, Mom
gets her sticks. This makes the game an incentive to learn math facts.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">Kids love to eat Popsicles - so save all those sticks for further fun!</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">You can also purchase a bag of sticks on<a href="https://amzn.to/3t7dlOs" target="_blank"> AMAZON.</a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">There are pre-colored sticks too! <a href=" https://amzn.to/3ES1sy8 " target="_blank">HERE</a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Photo courtesy of Tania Cowling, all rights reserved </i></div>
Kiddobloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16562732390669654269noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2343989656859722577.post-17869938893332582312023-08-04T09:35:00.000-04:002023-08-04T09:35:26.959-04:00Back to School on the Bus Craft
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEdlm7DZYYbvpmQYxHuoPCcIGz_4Wsv_cObVF1k5RDtvWesXFx9-IFmBfygu6TgdkbPA6g0xw3SWX0TeqfKI4QwwWV-Fj-JZuzGuJjyXD98zU4Xcyy3T5wC0dp7R9Up6Qcq6qhVgp2V3_q/s1600/School+Bus+Craft.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEdlm7DZYYbvpmQYxHuoPCcIGz_4Wsv_cObVF1k5RDtvWesXFx9-IFmBfygu6TgdkbPA6g0xw3SWX0TeqfKI4QwwWV-Fj-JZuzGuJjyXD98zU4Xcyy3T5wC0dp7R9Up6Qcq6qhVgp2V3_q/s320/School+Bus+Craft.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">As
the summer months come to a close school bells will begin to ring.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some states begin classes in late
August and others wait until after Labor Day in September. When you see the
infamous bright yellow school bus on your roads you know that school is in
session. Here is a fun school bus craft your child will enjoy making whether
he/she rides this iconic form of transportation or not. Why not sing “The
Wheels on the Bus” while you are crafting together? With a recycled egg carton
and a few supplies that are readily available at home this 3-D bus can be
constructed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, let’s get
started. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Supplies
needed to make a School Bus craft:</span></b></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Cardboard
egg carton</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Yellow
tempera paint</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Paintbrush</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Safety
scissors</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Heavy-duty
glue</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">White
card stock paper</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Markers
or crayons</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">2
plastic bottle caps</span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Directions
to follow:</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Step
1 – Prepare your work surface with newspaper to avoid paint and glue to mark
your table top. You may want to place a smock over your child’s clothes as
well. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Step
2 – Cut the lid off your cardboard egg carton. You can also use a yellow
Styrofoam egg carton if a cardboard one is not available. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Step
3 – Place the two pieces back-to-back – the top of the lid should be next to
the bottom of the egg cups (the open cups should be facing out). Glue these two
pieces together. This will give your bus stability to stand up on the table. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Step
4 – Invite the kids to paint the entire bus construction with yellow
paint.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Set this aside to dry
thoroughly.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Step
5 – While the bus is drying, cut out six circles from white card stock paper.
Use a bottle cap or lid to trace around to make the circles the same size. Make
sure the circles fit slightly inside each individual egg cup.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Step
6 – Encourage the children to draw facial features on each circle with colorful
markers or crayons. Challenge them to draw pictures of their school friends
that ride the bus with them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One
circle should be a portrait of your child. Another option is to use photocopies
of school pictures you may have of your child’s friends.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Step
7 – Glue these circles into the six egg cups on the top row of the bus. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Step
8 – Place two plastic lid caps on the bottom of the bus as wheels. Glue these
securely in place. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Step
9 – The small flap of the egg carton at the top of the bus is a place to write
the name of your school, bus route number, or just school bus in general. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Place
your finished school bus construction in your home or child’s room as a
reminder of the upcoming school days ahead.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><b><i>How are you and the kids getting ready for school? Tell us in the comment section below. </i></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><i>Photo courtesy of Tania Cowling, all rights reserved </i></span></div>
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</style>Kiddobloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16562732390669654269noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2343989656859722577.post-3522851845909861352023-07-17T10:16:00.000-04:002023-07-17T10:16:52.865-04:00Make Music Fun: Enhancing Kid's Songs with Art<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeXftEiPZH27O7IZM5gQNyHSIS8hfkq4W_hIloyR0U-RT_oUpSEfo5YMl9Rsj8eGASG79XEE_D6B_4nIUXS59tZM73N5u61k_6bS77yCKdROPdNbfzINXqWDckVxAhCiEfpqAiaSCtPEZ98YPFpdjIH835paB0ULBCQ4ojj5T0VcMkenKBLpHy450Jna0k/s1600/My%20Music%20Book.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeXftEiPZH27O7IZM5gQNyHSIS8hfkq4W_hIloyR0U-RT_oUpSEfo5YMl9Rsj8eGASG79XEE_D6B_4nIUXS59tZM73N5u61k_6bS77yCKdROPdNbfzINXqWDckVxAhCiEfpqAiaSCtPEZ98YPFpdjIH835paB0ULBCQ4ojj5T0VcMkenKBLpHy450Jna0k/s320/My%20Music%20Book.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Children are natural musicians and will express themselves in a
variety of creative ways when given the opportunity. Props can enhance
movement and enjoyment of the song. These items can also aid in making
children less inhibited. Story props can help provide an understanding
of the context of a song using masks and clothing accessories. If the
changes of tempo, mood, and dynamics are to be emphasized, try using
musical instruments, scarves, and streamers. Even artwork such as
painting and drawing provide an outlet for expression and enjoyment of a
song.<br />
Below are a few ideas to enhance popular childhood songs:<br />
<br />
<h3 class="dynamic">
One Elephant </h3>
<i>One elephant went out to play,</i><br />
<i>All on a spider's web one day,</i><br />
<i>He had such enormous fun,</i><br />
<i>He called for another elephant to come.</i><br />
<div class="box related read_on" style="width: 300px;">
<h2>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">This song has been sung in French by performers, Sharon, Lois and Braum, "</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"><i>One Elephant, Deux Elephant."</i></span></h2>
</div>
<i>Make an Elephant Mask as a Prop: </i>Use a paper plate, color or
paint it gray. Attach a set of construction paper floppy ears and an
accordion pleated trunk. Draw facial features and attach a wooden craft
stick to the back to hold the mask over the child's face.<br />
<br />
<h3 class="dynamic">
On Top Of Spaghetti</h3>
<i>On top of spaghetti,</i><br />
<i>All covered with cheese,</i><br />
<i>I lost my poor meatball,</i><br />
<i>When somebody sneezed.</i><br />
<i>It rolled off the table,</i><br />
<i>And onto the floor,</i><br />
<i>And then my poor meatball,</i><br />
<i>Rolled out of the door.</i><br />
<i><br /></i><br />
<i>Make Pasta People: </i> Provide different shapes of uncooked
pasta to the children. Have fun creating pasta people gluing the shapes
together onto construction paper. Give your "pasta people" special names
like<i> Rotini Ralph</i> or <i>Zachary Ziti</i>.<br />
<br />
<h3 class="dynamic">
When The Saints Come Marching In</h3>
<i>Oh, when the saints go marching in,</i><br />
<i>Oh, when the saints go marching in.</i><br />
<i>I want to be in that number,</i><br />
<i>When the saints go marching in.</i><br />
<i><br /></i><br />
<i>Create a Homemade Kazoo:</i> Decorate a cardboard tube (toilet
roll) with colorful markers and stickers. Cover one end with waxed
paper, held in place with a rubber band. Hum loudly into the open end to
make sounds. March around the room singing this adapted song.<br />
<br />
<i>Oh, when we play our made kazoo,</i><br />
<i>Oh, when we play our made kazoo,</i><br />
<i>We want to hum in that rhythm,</i><br />
<i>When we play our made kazoo!</i><br />
<br />
<h3 class="dynamic">
Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes</h3>
<i>Head, shoulders, knees and toes, knees and toes.</i><br />
<i>Head, shoulders, knees and toes, knees and toes.</i><br />
<i>And eyes and ears and mouth and nose,</i><br />
<i>Head, shoulders, knees and toes, knees and toes.</i><br />
<i><br /></i><br />
<i>A "Me-Mask" is Fun to Make:</i> Making a "me-mask" is fun for
all ages, as well as, teaching facial features to young children. It
teaches individuality, as everyone's mask can be different. Take a wire
clothes hanger and bend it into a diamond shape. Stretch a leg from
nylon pantyhose over the wire frame, knotting the bottom to secure it.
Now, with felt pieces, yarn and puffy paint markers, create a face
similar to your own. It's a great mask to see through - and no fear
factor as children can see each other through the mask.<br />
<br />
<h3 class="dynamic">
Old MacDonald Had A Band (Adapted Traditional Song)</h3>
<i>Old MacDonald had a band, ei ei o,</i><br />
<i>And in his band he had a ______, ei ei o.</i><br />
<i>With a shake, shake here and a shake, shake there,</i><br />
<i>Here a shake, there a shake, everywhere a shake, shake.</i><br />
<i>Old MacDonald had a band, ei ei o.</i><br />
<i><br /></i><br />
<i>Make Popcorn Maracas:</i> You will need one 35mm film container,
one Popsicle stick and uncooked popcorn kernels for each child. Slit a
hole into the container lid and insert the wooden stick. Fill the
canister halfway with kernels. Put the top back on (glue will help to
keep the top on securely) and shake, shake, shake!<br />
<br />
Finding creative ways to enhance children's songs will help youngsters with listening, memory and motor skills. Your children will love the experience!<br />
<br />
**First printed on Suite101.com<br />
Photo courtesy of Tania Cowling<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoFGXaKgGT7zBhkcuu_rY8q1nYOXiurbsKwEQMILJt5wqXfkiC8Q0tB3pgqf4ZnnyzTW1YhhaDOezGrFPgsvAVWL0yuYoTlvlqQY6X_jmfEqisWtCsXqNKS2ONBTd7ZDYl3d6Sf5war5cd/s1600/Elephant+Masks.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoFGXaKgGT7zBhkcuu_rY8q1nYOXiurbsKwEQMILJt5wqXfkiC8Q0tB3pgqf4ZnnyzTW1YhhaDOezGrFPgsvAVWL0yuYoTlvlqQY6X_jmfEqisWtCsXqNKS2ONBTd7ZDYl3d6Sf5war5cd/s320/Elephant+Masks.jpg" width="312" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>Kiddobloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16562732390669654269noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2343989656859722577.post-5184184908477613682023-07-07T09:51:00.000-04:002023-07-07T09:51:41.433-04:00Paper Plate Frog for Summer Crafting
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<!--StartFragment-->
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYxoTc2J2gbxEM3Q7NVhnFcZPBTxM78q0CxM4mJmkX0JSFEDpspZEgwKMaYANqnRyxquDEuamcs6123xaP_KOEMIbmJqkjyRXPf_gZXx5fb_QJErMYR1Qq7P2RMLO6nslfUm__qjFgu04y/s1600/Paperplate+Frog.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYxoTc2J2gbxEM3Q7NVhnFcZPBTxM78q0CxM4mJmkX0JSFEDpspZEgwKMaYANqnRyxquDEuamcs6123xaP_KOEMIbmJqkjyRXPf_gZXx5fb_QJErMYR1Qq7P2RMLO6nslfUm__qjFgu04y/s320/Paperplate+Frog.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">During summer, kids are anxious to go outdoors to observe nature. Most
children have seen a frog picture in books, but have they seen a real frog in
its habitat? Your child will flip over this fun frog craft made with simple
materials at home. It can even be manipulated like a puppet so the kiddos can
make plenty of “ribbit” sounds with their frog project. Frogs are a perfect
theme to get the youngsters thinking of the outdoors and participating in frog-acting
games like leap frog and lily pad leapers. You’ll all have a hoppin’ good time!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Materials:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<ul>
<li>Paper
plate</li>
<li>Green
paint</li>
<li>Paintbrush</li>
<li>Construction
paper</li>
<li>Cotton
balls or pom-poms</li>
<li>Heavy-duty
glue</li>
<li>Wiggly
eyes (optional)</li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Directions:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Step
1 – Prepare your work area for messy art. Your child will be painting and
gluing with this craft, so spread newspapers on the table and floor. Wearing a
smock or adult tee shirt will help protect your child’s clothing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Step
2 – Invite your child to paint both sides of a paper plate (the paper kind, not
a foam one) with green paint. Set this aside to dry.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Step
3 –In the meantime, draw and cut out four green legs from construction paper
and a red forked tongue. Cutting on the lines of these shapes help to develop
scissor skills in young children. The very youngest may need your help. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Step
4 – When the paper plate is dry, fold it in half. This makes the frog’s head/face
and mouth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Step
5 – Glue the four legs inside the folded area – one on each side and two at the
bottom. Glue a red tongue inside the mouth. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Step
6 – On top of the folded plate is the frog’s head and face. Find two cotton
balls or pom-poms and glue these as the frog’s eyeballs. You can then glue on
round wiggly eyes in the middle of the balls or as a variation use a hole punch
and make two small black circles from construction paper. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Step
7 – After all the parts are dry, the frog puppet is now ready to manipulate.
Your child can use his hand to hold the frog puppet and move the mouth to open
and close. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Think
about using this frog puppet to enhance songs, rhymes, and just to imitate
“froggie” sounds. As the saying goes, “It’s fun to be green if you know what I
mean!”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><i>Until next week,</i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><i>Happy Parenting,</i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><i>Tania :)</i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p><i>Photo courtesy of Tania Cowling, all rights reserved </i></o:p></span></div>
<!--EndFragment--><br />Kiddobloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16562732390669654269noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2343989656859722577.post-66930856363098645002023-06-01T14:01:00.000-04:002023-06-01T14:01:37.020-04:00Ice Cream Cone Craft for Summer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj39e0GhnA601b-_ZBop0hPWhC1cdCKIMS1pq5ALx9TlVGaYzKxD2fVvEDSbJ5ig4ipb2Qq8iDpVZlSZ2OXr1hY7XD0LUWwj8cc-GfCq5M5mh3-Nb7GujTOBs7Gw3BTGH05lHroociWF2Xy/s1600/Ice+Cream+Cone2.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj39e0GhnA601b-_ZBop0hPWhC1cdCKIMS1pq5ALx9TlVGaYzKxD2fVvEDSbJ5ig4ipb2Qq8iDpVZlSZ2OXr1hY7XD0LUWwj8cc-GfCq5M5mh3-Nb7GujTOBs7Gw3BTGH05lHroociWF2Xy/s320/Ice+Cream+Cone2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Summer is the perfect time<span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 14pt;"> to discuss all the dairy products you eat and enjoy. Your children
may even want to say “thank you” to the cows for all the good dairy foods we
eat, including ice cream. What child (and adults) doesn't love ice cream?</span><span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 14pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 14pt;">As part of this seasonal celebration make this
simple cut and paste craft with your family. Build an ice cream cone along with
the toppings for a cool and refreshing craft.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Materials:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<ul>
<li>Heavy-duty
paper or card stock</li>
<li>Construction
paper</li>
<li>Safety
scissors</li>
<li>Pencil</li>
<li>Brown
marker</li>
<li>Glue</li>
<li>Candy
sprinkles</li>
<li>Sliced
nuts</li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Directions:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Step
1 – Prepare your work surface for cutting and pasting with this project.
Newspaper on the tabletop and on the floor will work well to catch drips and
excess candy sprinkles. Clean up will be a breeze if you prepare ahead of time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Step
2 – Draw a cone shape on light brown construction paper. It’s a triangle shape.
If you don’t have the paper, try using a piece of a paper grocery bag. Set this
aside.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Step
3 – Next, invite your child to choose the colors for the ice cream scoops. Talk
about the different flavors of ice cream and the colors they possess. Draw
semi-circle shapes and cut at least two scoops. You may want a triple
decker-cone with three scoops. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Step
4 – With all the shapes drawn and cut out, start building your ice cream cone.
Begin by gluing the cone shape at the bottom of your background sheet of
heavy-duty construction paper or card stock.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Step
5 – Next, glue on each ice cream scoop, having the bottom the largest and each
additional scoop just a tad smaller.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Step
6 – Take a brown marker and draw criss-cross lines across the triangle so it
looks like a real waffle-type ice cream cone. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Step
7 – Now comes the fun part. – it’s time to glue on the candy sprinkles and
sliced nuts. Let your child choose among what you have in the kitchen pantry to
decorate their ice cream. Spread on glue and shake the sprinkles on top. Once
it dries, you can shake off the excess in the garbage can or onto a sheet of
newspaper that can be discarded.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Praise
your child for his efforts on making this yummy ice cream cone craft for summer fun. Make this a teachable moment by discussing all the other dairy products
you use in your home. And why not create an edible ice cream delight to enjoy with
your child today? So cool and yummy!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Happy Parenting,</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Tania :)</span></div>
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<!--EndFragment--><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p><i>Photo courtesy of Tania Cowling, all rights reserved</i></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p><i><br /></i></o:p></span></div>
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</style>Kiddobloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16562732390669654269noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2343989656859722577.post-40783859265242703382023-04-22T08:23:00.000-04:002023-04-22T08:23:35.811-04:004 Earth Day Activities for Children<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU2mXbVl869u5t9rpKQLT4nfdn9AIS9UHrnpbTzU2kOUF3m83ekIsG-rOOP1gTKWfNlvv7luFsAqy4R9iBLku-9TfxBnjZvogrljNAP0y-e7fJaS51K15TL1WJO-tfb1cL9R67lPpVNrRm/s1280/nature-3289812_1280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="1280" height="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU2mXbVl869u5t9rpKQLT4nfdn9AIS9UHrnpbTzU2kOUF3m83ekIsG-rOOP1gTKWfNlvv7luFsAqy4R9iBLku-9TfxBnjZvogrljNAP0y-e7fJaS51K15TL1WJO-tfb1cL9R67lPpVNrRm/w320-h255/nature-3289812_1280.jpg" width="320" /></a></div></div><br /><br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Earth Day </b>is celebrated April 22. Use these fun activities
to teach children the importance of taking care of our planet and learning to
become environmentally friendly.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Children can develop an understanding of protecting our
environment with the help of adults who make them aware of the fact that we are
all interdependent. We can be guardians of the plants and animals in our
surroundings. Below are several activities to help develop awareness for Earth
Day and every day.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Take a litter walk together</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Put some excitement into a clean-up litter walk by also
making it a scavenger hunt. Together, make a list of various types of things
that when thrown away becomes litter, such as soda cans, newspaper, paper cups,
plastic or glass bottles, and so on. Children can become aware that certain
items, although good in themselves, can become litter when discarded -- and
litter dirties up our Earth.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When walking, take a brown bag and the list. When the child
finds an item on the list, check it off. See how long it takes to cross off each
item. Of course, dump the litter in appropriate containers -- some may be
recycled.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Grow-it-again foods</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A great way to save the Earth is to repopulate things that
we eat. Many fruits and vegetables can be grown again by planting the seeds or
stalks. Here are a few examples.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Pineapple: Cut off the top and trim three rows of the bottom
leaves. Let this dry for a few days and then plant the pineapple top into the
soil, with the top above ground. Keep it moist and in a sunny place. Pineapples
will repopulate into new plants that will eventually bear fruit.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Onion: Find an onion that has already sprouted. Plant it in
the soil and watch it regrow into a new onion.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Carrot: Cut off the top and trim off any leaves. Place in a
layer of pebbles in a low dish container. Keep it well watered and when the
carrots sprout roots, plant in the ground.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Avocado: Place three toothpicks into an avocado seed. Set
this inside the mouth of a jar filled with water. Place this in partial
sunlight. When the roots sprout about four to five inches, plant this in soil
outdoors.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Learn to compost</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsgG2vqlSEq9D2E-gE2Lm8wPvG_FobXAbJobrX-P3HizpnUwFK1v_OfeX2vA9c8ECyeyWm4QnujAb36LTrejwQWQkA5GusZY0kTKbP4GHlDvFKmEY1TEp7fGnfKjK8DjOxz5Ob9BAIYm1_/s1600/earth-day-1354744_1920.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsgG2vqlSEq9D2E-gE2Lm8wPvG_FobXAbJobrX-P3HizpnUwFK1v_OfeX2vA9c8ECyeyWm4QnujAb36LTrejwQWQkA5GusZY0kTKbP4GHlDvFKmEY1TEp7fGnfKjK8DjOxz5Ob9BAIYm1_/s320/earth-day-1354744_1920.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If you garden with your children, you may want to start a
compost pile. Composting takes time to break down, but becomes great fertilizer
for a garden. Children can also see how some waste materials can be recycled. A
compost pile uses vegetable scraps such as potato peels, carrot scrapings, cornhusks,
lettuce, cabbage, and onion peels. It can also use coffee grounds, plant
clippings and grass.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
To make a compost pile, surround a small area with chicken
wire. Place another small circle of chicken wire in the center to help
circulate the air. Layer the vegetable scraps with fresh soil. Keep it moist
and add some lime and fertilizer. Continue the layers, always covering with
soil. You will have good rich mulch for a garden within a few months.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Recycle together as a family</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Introduce your children to the recycle emblem on many
products. Talk about why we recycle. Discuss the differences in packaging of
goods -- paper, plastic, and glass. Ask the kids, which would be better to use
and why? Together, make a game of sorting product containers using paper,
plastic, cans, and glass (do not sort glass with very young children). This is
a good activity that teaches classifying as a math skill. Have a recycle center
at your home and ask the children to use it daily.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After these discussions, brainstorm together ways that will
help our Earth -- like use cloth towels instead of paper towels in the kitchen,
don't let the water run needlessly, turn out the lights when you leave a room,
and use both sides of the paper when drawing or coloring. Better yet, use junk
mail for extra drawing paper on the clean side.</div>
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<br /></div>
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As parents, we can show our children how some things taken
from nature can be returned to help it thrive. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWP7_jpTOPHInNftVrTchJag_vNsCqxYNeHrM14rRaVRK3cbZ1gJJod15WWvQC0PeAK56pqDTjG0CEf1xDpvgwfgYr_kibonx8BPyh5xPlFLnXo-ZcFXiqcQ6WTdBf_fKrPeQfw4DvXGyF/s1600/comic-characters-2029609_1280.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWP7_jpTOPHInNftVrTchJag_vNsCqxYNeHrM14rRaVRK3cbZ1gJJod15WWvQC0PeAK56pqDTjG0CEf1xDpvgwfgYr_kibonx8BPyh5xPlFLnXo-ZcFXiqcQ6WTdBf_fKrPeQfw4DvXGyF/s320/comic-characters-2029609_1280.png" width="299" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Until next week -- Happy Parenting,</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Tania<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;"><span style="border: 0px; font-family: "pt serif", georgia, serif; font-size: 0.8751em; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #797979; font-style: italic;">Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links or advertisements. I earn a small commission if you click and shop through them, which helps fund this</span><i><span style="color: #797979;"> </span><span class="IL_AD" id="IL_AD2" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-image: none; background-position: 0% 50%; background-repeat: repeat; border-bottom: 1px dotted rgb(216, 65, 137); border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; cursor: pointer; display: inline; float: none; font-size: 12.2514px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1px; position: static; vertical-align: baseline;">website</span> </i><span style="color: #797979; font-style: italic;">so I can continue to bring you informative and interesting content. All opinions are my own.</span></span></span> <span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Free photos courtesy of Pixabay.com</div>
Kiddobloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16562732390669654269noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2343989656859722577.post-66570400905617004922023-04-17T11:54:00.000-04:002023-04-17T11:54:42.768-04:00Umbrella Art for Rainy Days<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_6kkjVlwbtrSw0fg_qIAMNRf8t25ufiD8XpPNZoMSRyp4HaBJiiaJAHm4LyxMwFmvSYcUTkzBu5BczBpDvNjg9cpRqIiOQzimdNWPIYT_9lAltJg505bsM9zananz5VlgoQtETu2v0zI0/s1600/April+Showers+Umbrella.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_6kkjVlwbtrSw0fg_qIAMNRf8t25ufiD8XpPNZoMSRyp4HaBJiiaJAHm4LyxMwFmvSYcUTkzBu5BczBpDvNjg9cpRqIiOQzimdNWPIYT_9lAltJg505bsM9zananz5VlgoQtETu2v0zI0/s320/April+Showers+Umbrella.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">During
spring rain showers occur frequently. We sure have had our share in Florida lately. As you discuss rainy weather with your
youngsters, talk about what they wear while walking in the drizzling
precipitation. While the kiddos answer raincoats and boots, talk about
umbrellas as well. This cut, paste, and print craft design envisions a child
hiding behind a big umbrella and all you can see is the child’s rain boots.
After they finish cutting and gluing all the pieces, bring out some blue paint
for some raindrop printing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What
fun!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Materials:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<ul>
<li>Card
stock or construction paper</li>
<li>Fancy
paper, such as gift wrap or scrapbook paper</li>
<li>Black
construction paper</li>
<li>Blue
poster paint</li>
<li>Paper
plate</li>
<li>School
glue</li>
<li>Safety
scissors</li>
<li>Black
marker</li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Directions:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Step
1 – Cover your work surfaces with newspaper to prevent marring your furniture
or messing your floor with glue and paint. You may want to dress your child in
a paint smock to protect clothing. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Step
2 – Choose a fancy paper for the umbrella. Think about stripes, dots, or a cute
design that can be found on gift wrap or scrapbook paper. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Step
3 – With a pencil or marker, draw a large umbrella (about 8-inches in diameter)
onto the print paper. Invite your child to cut on the lines to create this
shape. Very young children may need your help with this step. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Step
4 – Draw and cut out a pair of rain boots from black construction paper. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Step
5 – Take the umbrella and boots and have your child glue them onto a background
page. It’s best to use a pastel color where the upcoming raindrops will show up
nicely.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Step
6 – Mom may want to take a black marker and draw lines (to the points) making
this umbrella look real on the page.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Step
7 – After the shapes have dried, it’s time to create raindrops.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Place a dollop of blue poster paint
onto a small paper plate. Show your child how to dip his pointer finger into
the paint and make a print on the paper plate for practice. After he gets the
hang of this technique, have him make numerous raindrop prints randomly on the
page around the umbrella.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Praise
your youngster for her artwork and hang it in the house where all the family
can see it. Talk about how an umbrella can protect a person from getting wet
during rain showers. Crafting can be a time of bonding and there are many
teachable moments while you work together. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<!--EndFragment--><i>If you like what you see, please subscribe to this blog. Are you looking for a specific craft? Product review? Parenting tips? Shoot me an email to: <a href="mailto:taniacowling@gmail.com">taniacowling@gmail.com</a> and I will try to help you in future posts.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Until next time. Happy Parenting.</i><br />
<i>Tania</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
Photo courtesy of Tania Cowling, all rights reservedKiddobloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16562732390669654269noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2343989656859722577.post-5224034452845684472023-03-27T11:47:00.000-04:002023-03-27T11:47:31.354-04:00Creative Crafts for Easter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLZ-PMSEU37jYW12ZUU1i6dy56VGt2LnnW7qfdSR5V25Q7VlT-rLiBdmdqCLYap4bwYZj6YM35iNwX98fWN33w1d3U4v4syB2DnhktJjlhbH2X5p30HArpJYirGB7My6SbsmHL8ze5gGzi/s1600/F02797F9059AB930C32081FC69D59A4C15BD7B95_lis.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLZ-PMSEU37jYW12ZUU1i6dy56VGt2LnnW7qfdSR5V25Q7VlT-rLiBdmdqCLYap4bwYZj6YM35iNwX98fWN33w1d3U4v4syB2DnhktJjlhbH2X5p30HArpJYirGB7My6SbsmHL8ze5gGzi/s320/F02797F9059AB930C32081FC69D59A4C15BD7B95_lis.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Easter/Passover is on it's way and the perfect time to craft with the kids. Do you need some ideas? I'm posting a culmination of some articles I wrote the past couple years. They are easy and mostly use materials found in the home. Enjoy your holiday and spring!<br />
<br />
Happy Parenting,<br />
Tania<br />
<br />
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<br />
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1"><b>Hatching Baby Chicks</b></span></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p4">
<span class="s1">Spring is the season for renewal of life and we often hear about baby chicks hatching from eggs. I would suggest getting a book from the library on hatching baby chicks so the children can understand the process.</span></div>
<div class="p4">
<span class="s1">You will need:</span></div>
<ul class="ul1">
<li class="li4"><span class="s1">Egg halves (washed and dried)</span></li>
<li class="li4"><span class="s1">2 yellow pom-poms (one larger than the other)</span></li>
<li class="li4"><span class="s1">Googly eyes</span></li>
<li class="li4"><span class="s1">Orange construction paper</span></li>
<li class="li4"><span class="s1">Safety scissors</span></li>
<li class="li4"><span class="s1">Heavy-duty glue</span></li>
</ul>
<div class="p4">
<span class="s1">Directions:</span></div>
<ol class="ol1">
<li class="li4"><span class="s1">Give each child one eggshell and two yellow pom-poms. Have them carefully glue their pom-poms inside the eggshell, one on top of the other. Make sure to have extra eggshells available as these are fragile and could crumble.</span></li>
<li class="li4"><span class="s1">Finish this craft by gluing on two eyes and an orange beak cut from construction paper.</span></li>
<li class="li4"><span class="s1">You can display these baby chicks inside an egg carton or staple a circular ring from heavy-duty paper to make an egg stand.</span></li>
</ol>
<div class="p5"><br /></div>
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<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVGiAP3hWmi8xekzvaoUetZEqEBMbzVpqhn0wdAGlM_3jyV8ZhbGTIcxqRPUVjVttPpnZmI_df-IFpfaLljl1SlzaF0ebvhGZbYYjmdxnkAZb9X9IrdkW6oxM9FJKeWT3jwGaNO-FJiI8e/s1600/0f88b2c2c60c0a25af645fff65a8588fd3c45926_small.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="150" data-original-width="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVGiAP3hWmi8xekzvaoUetZEqEBMbzVpqhn0wdAGlM_3jyV8ZhbGTIcxqRPUVjVttPpnZmI_df-IFpfaLljl1SlzaF0ebvhGZbYYjmdxnkAZb9X9IrdkW6oxM9FJKeWT3jwGaNO-FJiI8e/s1600/0f88b2c2c60c0a25af645fff65a8588fd3c45926_small.jpg" /></a></div>
<ul class="ul1">
<li class="li1"><span class="s2"><b>Crafting With Matzoh for Passover</b></span><span class="s5"><br />
For Passover, let the children use broken pieces of matzoh and invite them to glue these pieces onto construction paper. Lots of very creative pictures emerge from this activity. Have them tell you about their design.</span></li><li class="li1"><span class="s5"><br />
What’s more fun than painting matzoh? Eating it! Melt white chocolate chips in a bowl (a microwave can be used). Separate the melted chocolate into several bowls. Add drops of food coloring to make a variety of edible paints. Using a clean paintbrush or cotton swabs, invite your child to paint designs and pictures on a square of matzoh. Note: you may have to keep reheating the chocolate to keep it liquid for painting. Chocolate hardens very quickly. Another variation is to use pre-made frosting in tubes that can be purchased in grocery stores. When finished, share the artwork and then enjoy the snack.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
</span></li>
<li class="li1"><span class="s2"><b>The Hunts of the Season<br />
</b></span><span class="s5">Celebrate Passover with a treasure hunt for the “Afikomen." The matzoh is placed in a holder and here is a simple one to make:<br />
You will need:</span></li>
<ul class="ul2">
<li class="li1"><span class="s5">Two sheets royal blue felt (9" x 12")</span></li>
<li class="li1"><span class="s5">Silver glitter glue, decorating decors</span></li>
<li class="li1"><span class="s5">Tacky glue</span></li>
<li class="li1"><span class="s5"> </span></li>
</ul>
<li class="li1"><span class="s5">Simply glue the two sheets of felt together around the edges, leaving one side open for a piece of matzoh. You could also sew them together if you wish. Draw six-sided stars with glitter glue. You can also add decors like lace, sequins, or faux jewels with the tacky glue. Let dry completely and you are ready to place this work of art on the Seder table.<br />
To hunt for the Afikomen, hide this piece of matzoh in the holder somewhere in the home. Present a few clues to lead the kids from the dining area to where the Afikomen is hidden. Whoever finds the matzoh wins a prize.<a href="https://img.bhs4.com/11/7/11722875ea440e58eeaa1629c09c500a46039088_large.jpg"><span class="s6"> </span></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.brighthubeducation.com/preschool-crafts-activities/60880-bunny-ears-craft-for-preschool/"><span class="s6">For Easter</span></a>, create this cute bunny basket for your youngster to collect his “finds of the hunt." Take a half-gallon milk carton and remove one panel using safety scissors or a craft knife (adult use only). Save this panel to make a handle. Cover all sides of this carton with construction paper using glue or tape. Cut a strip from the saved panel and staple it on both sides to make a handle. Create a cute bunny face by gluing on googly eyes, stapling on bunny ears made from heavy paper, and lastly whiskers. If you punch a hole in the center of the top ridge; pipe cleaners can be inserted equal distance and bent slightly for bunny whiskers.</span></li><li class="li1"><span class="s5"><br /></span></li><li class="li1"><span class="s5">
Making homemade Easter crafts and Passover crafts for kids are milestones and memories that you and your children will never forget. Enjoy this <span class="s6">creative time together</span> and the fun holiday festivities to follow!<br />
Note: Use parental supervision and age appropriate art materials when making crafts with kids.</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
</div>
<ul class="ul1">
<li class="li1"><span class="s5">
<br />
<i>Some crafts were part of articles first published on Bright Hub Education by Tania K Cowling</i></span></li>
<li class="li1"><span class="s5"><i>Photos courtesy of Tania Cowling, all rights reserved</i><br />
<br />
</span></li>
</ul>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s5"></span><br /></div>
<br />Kiddobloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16562732390669654269noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2343989656859722577.post-83292012866617111392023-03-09T11:30:00.000-05:002023-03-09T11:30:17.941-05:00How Do You Amuse the Kids on St. Patrick's Day?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKmJhSPziDZY6P2lyICbDc3Gqp4a6X1A4PbBOGAwE_-5XSnGOZwbBxLq__u1GL6UHvKJ0HFuj3ZWuY5v1cd6_BBc6Np01dvucD2rLpw6dCMu7GDvdsnnOaAE_vubfwaGVRJQxwwmko8XdL/s1600/st-patricks-day-2070201_1920.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="154" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKmJhSPziDZY6P2lyICbDc3Gqp4a6X1A4PbBOGAwE_-5XSnGOZwbBxLq__u1GL6UHvKJ0HFuj3ZWuY5v1cd6_BBc6Np01dvucD2rLpw6dCMu7GDvdsnnOaAE_vubfwaGVRJQxwwmko8XdL/s320/st-patricks-day-2070201_1920.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "cambria"; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "cambria"; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "cambria"; font-size: 12pt;">Calling all teachers and parents:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "cambria"; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span>
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<!--StartFragment--><span style="font-family: "cambria"; font-size: 12pt;">Lads and lassies, get ready
to celebrate a “wee-bit of fun” this March 17th on St. Patrick’s Day. </span><!--EndFragment--><br />
<span style="font-family: "cambria"; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Doing the shamrock stomp:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(baby & toddler)<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Put on some music (like an Irish jig or McNamara’s Band) and
invite your child to dance along with you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For young babies, hold them in your arms while you
dance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Encourage him to come up
with a variety of ways to move to the music.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To do the “Shamrock Stomp”, cut out large shamrock shapes
from green construction paper.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Tape these to the floor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Start the music and have your child move and jump from shamrock to
shamrock.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is a fun way for
your youngster to express himself on St. Patrick’s Day and great for practicing
large motor skills.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Masking tape
on the floor can be another entertaining movement game.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Stick the tape on the floor to make a
design, such as a zigzag, a circle, triangle or a star.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let your child move along, over and
around the lines as they please.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigF1i3cUBN0IigP_XZRrtyWPlv34KqecObIflyvcr6-et2eMvgcdeg9wf5dbgWrDYOQ3UGWgMyJLM5F3fbcMXwnKN-_SAeaRAuicaTJQymypt1xREnad3f3C7gvFXUng-duJV7RfRy8uO2/s1600/51JU0Vt3egL._SS500.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigF1i3cUBN0IigP_XZRrtyWPlv34KqecObIflyvcr6-et2eMvgcdeg9wf5dbgWrDYOQ3UGWgMyJLM5F3fbcMXwnKN-_SAeaRAuicaTJQymypt1xREnad3f3C7gvFXUng-duJV7RfRy8uO2/s320/51JU0Vt3egL._SS500.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Traditional-Music-Ireland-Various-artists/dp/B00PG0U4VO/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1488639202&sr=8-7&keywords=irish+music+cd&tag=tanicowl-20" target="_blank">Click here </a>to purchase this CD<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>How about the shamrock shimmy?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(preschool+)<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Here’s a fun locomotion game to play with your child.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">It’s even better if you can gather
other family members or friends.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">
</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Cut several small shamrocks from green construction paper.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Write instructions on the one side
like:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">hop like a bunny, gallop
like a horse, crawl like a snake, walk like an elephant, whistle like a </span><span>leprechaun, skip<span style="font-size: 12pt;">, walk backwards,
etc.</span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Place these instructional
shamrocks in a container on the other side of the room.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Play this like a relay race, as the
first person runs to the pile, takes a shamrock and does what it says while
returning to his/her team, then sits down. Station an adult to help read the
instructions.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The next team member
proceeds the same way until everyone has a turn.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Another fun St. Paddy game is “Irish Hot Potato.”</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Sit all players in a circle.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Hand one child a potato.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Explain that when the music begins, they
will pass the potato to the person on their right.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">When the music stops whoever’s holding the potato scoots out
of the circle and playing resumes. Who will end up in the circle alone with the
potato? Play some Celtic or Irish Jig music to get into the spirit, although
any music will do.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Cover photo courtesy of Tumisu, CC0 Public Domain, pixabay.com</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Quick shopping for materials you will need for these activities:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Pacon-Riverside-Construction-12-Inches-18-Inches/dp/B000J0APUQ/ref=sr_1_16?ie=UTF8&qid=1488638137&sr=8-16&keywords=green+construction+paper&tag=tanicowl-20" target="_blank">Green construction paper </a> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "cambria"; font-size: 12pt;">
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Scotch-Expressions-Masking-20-Yards-MMM3437PGR/dp/B00FX6465Q/ref=sr_1_15?ie=UTF8&qid=1488638418&sr=8-15&keywords=green+tape&tag=tanicowl-20" target="_blank">Green masking tape </a> </o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2iFggJGtSm2z-Burf76kAnnVDzxkm3eA_gvMT8yBBGS98vvDxtbZfaHMVY_YcUoy44_VS646MKHhJq5u82Vlzg9xu0h5UAHq0vO4eL6Oobd-1ztxmGUaAt5qceePzzyhDPlg1LHsXyZQO/s1600/71iTDIqsFfL._SL1500_.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2iFggJGtSm2z-Burf76kAnnVDzxkm3eA_gvMT8yBBGS98vvDxtbZfaHMVY_YcUoy44_VS646MKHhJq5u82Vlzg9xu0h5UAHq0vO4eL6Oobd-1ztxmGUaAt5qceePzzyhDPlg1LHsXyZQO/s320/71iTDIqsFfL._SL1500_.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Kiddobloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16562732390669654269noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2343989656859722577.post-83916409598864390702023-02-23T13:55:00.000-05:002023-02-23T13:55:39.555-05:00Is Your Tween Ready to Babysit?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQvWTRuWipysuYLXPRO9bvyYJmtJAZJcBqXFSV5wOxf8WEzfqLvQcXVgNu8GUi8FkBamK8DyUncI9CS-ZOthby9qbLqG4Qiya8GLTQi8P1pp3TNkAUnTLAAb39ikOnxBkKKf2YIJZNdO4l/s1600/Babysitting+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQvWTRuWipysuYLXPRO9bvyYJmtJAZJcBqXFSV5wOxf8WEzfqLvQcXVgNu8GUi8FkBamK8DyUncI9CS-ZOthby9qbLqG4Qiya8GLTQi8P1pp3TNkAUnTLAAb39ikOnxBkKKf2YIJZNdO4l/s320/Babysitting+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<i><br /></i>
<i><br /></i>
<i>Hi all,</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>I'm trying to expand this blog to cover information that will appeal and offer helpful information to parents with older children, not just preschool. So whether you have an infant, toddler, preschooler, or older child, keep checking my blog for all things parenting. </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Today, I'm focusing on Tweens. Has your child asked you about starting to babysit? Here is a helpful checklist to give to your tween to see if he/she can answer these questions. Is the job right for them? Let's find out!</i><br />
<br />
<i>Happy Parenting,</i><br />
<i>Tania</i><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>BABYSITTING:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>ARE YOU READY FOR THIS RESPONSIBLE JOB?<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">During the tween years, it’s normal to begin your first
paying jobs: mowing lawns, walking dogs, or babysitting.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">These activities help to build a sense
of independence as well as teach the importance of scheduling, dependability
and managing finances.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Babysitting
is more than watching small children while their parents are away from home;
it’s a real job that demands responsibility and full-time attention.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Can you handle this task? Below is a
checklist to see if this job is for you!</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "wingdings"; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">§<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><i>Are you comfortable staying alone?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></i>It’s important to be at ease being
alone at home, both during daylight and nighttime hours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you’re nervous about staying home
alone, you may not be ready to be alone in someone else’s home and responsible
for other children. Some tweens may be okay during the day, but become
apprehensive after dark.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In this
case, begin with daytime babysitting only.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "wingdings"; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">§<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><i>How do you relate to younger children?</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do you treat children with patience and
compassion?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Can you take command
of situations that require guidance or supervision?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do younger children respond to you positively? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "wingdings"; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">§<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><i>Can you handle unexpected or emergency
situations?</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Are you able to
stay calm and proceed wisely in a crisis?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Preparing a plan of action and learning basic emergency procedures can
be helpful in handling unexpected situations that may arise.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "wingdings"; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">§<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><i>Are you skilled in the basics of childcare?</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do you know how to hold, feed, and
change baby’s diapers?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Can you
soothe a crying child who woke up with a bad dream, misses her parents or has
fallen during play?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you feel
apprehensive with very young children, maybe sitting with older children would
be wise until you gain more experience.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "wingdings"; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">§<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><i>Can you handle the business of babysitting?</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Babysitting is a job that requires
interaction with parents as well as children.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Be businesslike and explain the days and hours you are
available.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What you charge per hour.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Try to arrange a visit prior to
babysitting to meet the children.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Make arrangements for transportation to and from the job.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12.0pt;">If you answer yes to these questions
babysitting can be a rewarding experience. Go on to the Internet for
babysitting safety tips. <a href="http://www.minnesotasafetycouncil.org/facts/factsheet.cfm?qs=EF3A65C201912804BD43AD99EAAE5805" target="_blank"> Babysitting Safety Tips</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman";"><br /></span>
<i>Photo courtesy of Tania Cowling, all rights reserved</i><!--EndFragment--><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman";"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>Kiddobloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16562732390669654269noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2343989656859722577.post-45118475139349871042023-02-03T10:34:00.000-05:002023-02-03T10:34:11.033-05:00Valentine Crafts for the Young<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8bU2Uznb2Vvq3XPWV-SrxmSX_czCNsZKzr909OGZUwqrquf8-iU-3lQYw1Cjrd3MaYjlbx-zGGtfBWEx7v0nlrxr9TbmKr-O-cmFOlycktNwr9XUtanJeBP8b_paD__862MYOKBQmVt7p/s1600/valentines-day-1130005__340.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="309" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8bU2Uznb2Vvq3XPWV-SrxmSX_czCNsZKzr909OGZUwqrquf8-iU-3lQYw1Cjrd3MaYjlbx-zGGtfBWEx7v0nlrxr9TbmKr-O-cmFOlycktNwr9XUtanJeBP8b_paD__862MYOKBQmVt7p/s320/valentines-day-1130005__340.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<b>It's coming on February 14th. Time to get started on Valentine crafts. Here are a few to try.</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
I know your children make Valentines in school and daycare, but there is nothing like getting out the art supplies and creating memorable decorations and gifts with your little one at home. This is something I cherished with my children and now my grandkids. Kids are only young once, savor every moment.<br />
<br />
<b>CD Photo Magnet—<o:p></o:p></b><br />
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This is a project you and your child can make for gifts and recipients can truly enjoy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Recycle old CD’s (or the ones you get in the mail).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Glue a picture of your child on the front, in the center.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With a colorful paint pen, write, “Your Love Makes My Heart Sing” around the disk. Decorate with cute little hearts, drawn freehand or you can use stickers. Attach a small piece of adhesive magnetic tape to the backside of the disk.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This tape is easily found in craft stores.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just think; this project idea can be used for multiple holidays—just by changing colors and decorative designs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s also a craft project that older children may enjoy making themselves!<br />
<br />
<b>Everybody Loves A T-Shirt!</b><br />
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How about one with meaning? You can use this technique on canvas bags, baseball caps, and hand towels too. Use your imagination and have fun!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With a fabric paint marker write, “Behind every hand is a heart that loves Dad” (or Grandma, or whomever the shirt is for).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Gently paint the hands of your child with fabric paint and press them on any area of the shirt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Use a variety of colors and allow the shirt to dry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Make sure to wash your child’s hands thoroughly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For an added touch, date the shirt with a laundry marker or fabric paint marker.</div>
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<b><br /></b> <b>Making Tie-Dyed Valentines—</b></div>
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<br /></div>
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A tie-dyed print doesn’t have to be messy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here is a way to get this same effect using simple art materials.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Flatten a white coffee filter and place it onto a sheet of cardboard or anything that will protect your table.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Invite your child to draw Valentine designs (actually scribbles will do) onto the filter with <b>washable</b> color markers covering a vast surface.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fold the filter into quarters and dip it into cold water for just a second.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Your child will be amazed as he/she sees the colors blend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Open the filter and lay it flat to dry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When completely dry, show your child how to cut hearts from this unique paper.</div>
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<o:p><i><b>Spend quality time bonding and making memorable crafts for this holiday. They are fun too!</b></i></o:p></div>
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<o:p><i><b>Happy Parenting,</b></i></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><i><b>Tania </b></i></o:p><br />
<o:p><i><b><br /></b></i></o:p>
<o:p><i style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px;">Contact me for republication of any part of this blog post with a link back to Creative Preschool Time </i></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
Kiddobloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16562732390669654269noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2343989656859722577.post-62331972803177936532023-01-11T08:02:00.000-05:002023-01-11T08:02:53.287-05:00It's All About Family: Activities for Kids<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEIsDp0U6-d5Il2gVaIHCp3vkXKLMWeNa2vOMWaioxHYtaa75EQ7JI1EZSRGV-ewuZOaRYEh4ZaVRElEoje7FJpb70HdhyojIztqE__1Q3Ej-bguGsq1IJXflfQEUFst3Q6nU5TjMYIJ47/s1600/family-hand-1636615__340.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="340" data-original-width="340" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEIsDp0U6-d5Il2gVaIHCp3vkXKLMWeNa2vOMWaioxHYtaa75EQ7JI1EZSRGV-ewuZOaRYEh4ZaVRElEoje7FJpb70HdhyojIztqE__1Q3Ej-bguGsq1IJXflfQEUFst3Q6nU5TjMYIJ47/s320/family-hand-1636615__340.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Spend "together time" as a family. Celebrate this very special
relationship by using a variety of activities that focus on the family theme. Take
this theme into reading, writing, speaking, music, and art.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">My Family Quilt<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilYzxpBCZyOiyfE1qu4-yHwzskQ0__ar8L07XISN2qhb-N9GIwaguPmgFXjG0ZxxptI-MwUjAjNLBSdjC6Z207Ui4NHB4EDTwHeflY0C7_O2I16LtfI6dko3-F3JqC1uVHe45rJ9Pakfel/s1600/Family+Quilt+by+kids.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilYzxpBCZyOiyfE1qu4-yHwzskQ0__ar8L07XISN2qhb-N9GIwaguPmgFXjG0ZxxptI-MwUjAjNLBSdjC6Z207Ui4NHB4EDTwHeflY0C7_O2I16LtfI6dko3-F3JqC1uVHe45rJ9Pakfel/s320/Family+Quilt+by+kids.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">There
is nothing cozier than a quilt. They feel like home. Begin this lesson by
reading <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">The Patchwork Quilt</i> by
Valerie Flournoy and discuss the importance of family and what family means to
each child. Talk about the making of quilts and how you can incorporate family
heirlooms and memories inside this stitched piece of art. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjovn3qoFAvLiIazwDzIbQqfyM6gx6QjuogF4GGAeXmqMH4HlqjK23LjA8-lE-E_gLDH9iSlVBMU7oUy0I3h-L2BUd2CBr7FusWa_wEFoPL5DdAizB_YTsfZnp_SR9R4ooSODjve9Uq6pD6/s1600/Penelope+Art+Quilt+Block.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="592" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjovn3qoFAvLiIazwDzIbQqfyM6gx6QjuogF4GGAeXmqMH4HlqjK23LjA8-lE-E_gLDH9iSlVBMU7oUy0I3h-L2BUd2CBr7FusWa_wEFoPL5DdAizB_YTsfZnp_SR9R4ooSODjve9Uq6pD6/s320/Penelope+Art+Quilt+Block.jpg" width="236" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Why
not try an art project involving quilts? Cut out squares of pastel-colored
paper. Invite the kids to draw and color a quilt block for each member of the
family including pets. Draw the person and surround the headshot with things
they love. Now, if you have an odd number of family members, just have the
child create an extra quilt block (or two) with some of his/her favorite
things. When all blocks are done, glue them together onto a sheet of poster
board. Next, take a black marker and create stitch marks around each quilt block
to replicate the real stitching on a quilt – a work of art that has spanned
generations.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Family Fun and Laughs<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">For
this themed activity, read the book <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">The
Relatives Came</i> by Cynthia Rylant. It’s a fun pairing of words and pictures
that capture the energy and love that flows from a family reunion. After
reading the story together, take time to share memories of family experiences. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqBP3gw51HtfwKge2Wvue0JZveDq495M5Ctwsw7wbCSpWwO2eNl5PabynXHmNft04osGKQ0Vk8UlAza6eqmrqzf6guZ4XcKYpdL56RNPKdSrGxAaOmw4rVJtOL42vfmPpnsOwkTVab9RfC/s1600/51l9cPAsoIL._SX455_BO1%252C204%252C203%252C200_.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="457" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqBP3gw51HtfwKge2Wvue0JZveDq495M5Ctwsw7wbCSpWwO2eNl5PabynXHmNft04osGKQ0Vk8UlAza6eqmrqzf6guZ4XcKYpdL56RNPKdSrGxAaOmw4rVJtOL42vfmPpnsOwkTVab9RfC/s320/51l9cPAsoIL._SX455_BO1%252C204%252C203%252C200_.jpg" width="292" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">For
a project, have the kids think of a specific family gathering.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the top of the page of paper, write
the event in a large circle. Next, branch down to the next level and add all
the family members who attended. The third row holds circles for things that
happened during the event.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
last row of circles includes thoughts of how the children felt during this
family gathering.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This “graphic
organizer” project helps kids to express how they feel about their family, the
events, and even tips for future family gatherings. This organizer design is
almost like an outline for when students are asked to write a story.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<!--EndFragment--><a href="https://www.brighthubeducation.com/parenting-grade-schoolers/my-family-a-theme-lesson-for-the-primary-grades/" target="_blank">CONTINUE READING...</a> (a Bright Hub Education article by Tania Cowling)<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiItaUke_dzNeokxssvB6uOIyCF3gpOAForbtT0pK57H2NikFVsqqNwllqi8_wftQ5asLGDQ0GREfCJ-rCV41EdtN0_JT3YKKoA9LtA2B0ezt8Noestiz68JOL7UxVfaeKMpnU9i675Eoyi/s1600/61KGwWJTtdL._SX352_BO1%252C204%252C203%252C200_.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="499" data-original-width="354" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiItaUke_dzNeokxssvB6uOIyCF3gpOAForbtT0pK57H2NikFVsqqNwllqi8_wftQ5asLGDQ0GREfCJ-rCV41EdtN0_JT3YKKoA9LtA2B0ezt8Noestiz68JOL7UxVfaeKMpnU9i675Eoyi/s320/61KGwWJTtdL._SX352_BO1%252C204%252C203%252C200_.jpg" width="227" /></a></div>
<br />
Books available on Amazon -- Click to Purchase<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Relatives-Came-Cynthia-Rylant/dp/0689717385/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1SX7FMTEOK613&keywords=the+relatives+came+by+cynthia+rylant&qid=1562351672&s=gateway&sprefix=The+relatives+came%2Caps%2C161&sr=8-1/myfacebook053-20" target="_blank">The Relatives Came</a><br />
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/s?k=the+patchwork+quilt+by+valerie+flournoy&ref=nb_sb_noss/myfacebook053-20" target="_blank">The Patchwork Quilt</a><br />
<br />
<i><b>Family</b> is always a good theme to engage children in discussion and activities. Children learn through books and art -- get them involved today. </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Happy Parenting,</i><br />
<i>Tania :)</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>This post may contain affiliate links. The money we make from linking helps to keep this website up and running. </i>Kiddobloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16562732390669654269noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2343989656859722577.post-58554560972791024142022-12-27T13:31:00.001-05:002022-12-27T13:31:42.155-05:00Getting Ready for 2023 With the Kids: Games to Play<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCos44OSOiWvCLqxTiWfk0HqVFpZQnkRiRKDdoeEHN9kXL2ZSievy7aMn94GaE8EwXWIztsOHUMBZRE6LYXx1erjMRr1nB99q41nAvjHooIxBHzvFr6s9v9AqeYHg_svp9p6JYuT1fPco9INhtw2HTQ9jSTSg3PSRXpNYvqSia4VFjxOUGbRoNEwNf3A/s1280/newyear2023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="818" data-original-width="1280" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCos44OSOiWvCLqxTiWfk0HqVFpZQnkRiRKDdoeEHN9kXL2ZSievy7aMn94GaE8EwXWIztsOHUMBZRE6LYXx1erjMRr1nB99q41nAvjHooIxBHzvFr6s9v9AqeYHg_svp9p6JYuT1fPco9INhtw2HTQ9jSTSg3PSRXpNYvqSia4VFjxOUGbRoNEwNf3A/w391-h306/newyear2023.jpg" width="391" /></a></div><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt;">New Year’s Eve has all the fixings for a true children’s celebration—the chance to stay up way past bedtime, toss confetti in the air, sport silly hats, and raise a toast.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Whether you want to ring in 2023 with your child at a family party or throw a sleepover bash for all his/her friends, the following games are here for you to consider.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt;">CELEBRATE WITH BUBBLE WRAP—<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt;">Tape sheets of bubble wrap (small bubbles and large ones) to a hard floor or driveway.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When the New Year’s countdown concludes have the kids stomp on the bubble wrap to make loud popping sounds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sure safer than fireworks!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt;">NEW YEAR FREEZE DANCING—<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt;">Give each child a noisemaker horn.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Play some peppy music and while the music is playing the kids can blow their horns.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When the music stops, the children freeze and yell “Happy New Year.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is a fun game—but beware—it can get very LOUD!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt;">THE MOUSE RAN UP THE CLOCK—</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt;">This game is based on the “Red Light, Green Light” activity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One child is the “Grandfather Clock” and stands with his back to the players (mice).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He calls out hours at random, and the mice race to take that number of steps before “Grandfather” turns around.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Those who fail must return to start.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> The f</span>irst mouse to “run up the clock” wins.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt;">HIDE THE CLOCK—<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt;">An adult hides a ticking clock.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Gather the kids and have them find it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Another fun way is to set the alarm for 5-7 minutes, if the kids don’t find the clock—the alarm will surely give a loud clue.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt;">FESTIVE BUBBLES—<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt;">Set out a pie plate with homemade soap solution.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mix 3 parts water to 1 part “Joy” or “Dawn” dishwashing liquid.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For lots of miniature bubbles, tape together a bunch of plastic drinking straws.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dip one end in the bubble solution, hold the other end about one inch from your mouth (do not put your lips on the straws) and blow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For the big dipper, twist one end of a pipe cleaner into a large loop, dip it in the soap solution then slowly wave it in the air to create a giant bubble.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt;">PLAY VOLLEY BALLOON—<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt;">Batting a balloon back and forth may sound easy, but in this challenge, there’s a catch:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Each contestant must link an arm with his/her partner, leaving just one hand free for the task.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Whichever pair is able to volley their balloon the longest wins.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt;"><b>HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL MY READERS,</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt;"><b>TANIA :)</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p><i>Photo courtesy of geralt, CCO Public Domain on Pixabay.com</i></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p><i>Sources for games:</i></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p><i>Channels to Children by Carol Beckman, Roberta Simmons, and Nancy Thomas, copyright 1982</i></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p><i>Family Fun Parties, culminated by Deanna F. Cook, copyright 1999</i></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />Kiddobloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16562732390669654269noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2343989656859722577.post-66254372757819547572022-12-22T09:22:00.000-05:002022-12-22T09:22:14.727-05:00Piggyback Christmas Songs for Kids -- What Fun!<style>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>Christmas is near and Christmas carols are being played on the radio, in programs, stores, and basically all around. Singing with children is such a lovely family tradition, but why not divert away from the traditional carols, maybe just for a little while and sing some fun piggy-back songs sung to traditional children's tunes? Here are a couple of my favorites to try:<br />
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<b>Songs Around the Christmas Tree</b></div>
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The traditional Christmas tree fascinates children with all the bulbs and bubbles that adorn its branches. Christmas is magical for children, so these songs make it fun. Sing this first song to the <b>tune of "This Old Man."</b> The title is "Toys on the Christmas Tree" and has several other verses.<br />
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<i>This little drum, on the tree,</i></div>
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<i>Santa put it there for me,</i></div>
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<i>With a boom-boom, rat-a-tat,</i></div>
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<i>Rummy-tummy-tum,</i></div>
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<i>Christmas Day is so much fun!</i></div>
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Children love to sing <b>"The Wheels on the Bus"</b>, so this time make it a fun Christmas song with these new words.<br />
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<i>The lights on the tree go blink, blink, blink,</i></div>
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<i>Blink, blink, blink, blink, blink, blink,</i></div>
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<i>The lights on the tree go blink, blink, blink,</i></div>
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<i>All Christmas day.</i></div>
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Continue singing all the following verses:</div>
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The presents at the house go rattle, rattle, rattle ...</div>
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The mom at the house goes bake, bake, bake ...</div>
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The dad at the house goes snore, snore, snore ...</div>
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The grandma at the house goes hug, hug, hug ...</div>
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The grandpa at the house goes kiss, kiss, kiss ...<br />
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Since this song is open-ended, think of new verses together to add to this song.</div>
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Have fun singing these songs together.<br />
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<i>More songs to come!</i><br />
<i>Happy Parenting,</i><br />
<i>Tania :)</i><br />
<br />
(Song authors unknown)</div>
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Photo courtesy of <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/archive/display/720719" target="_blank">Morguefile.com </a></div>
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Kiddobloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16562732390669654269noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2343989656859722577.post-82647478584687229742022-12-03T07:47:00.000-05:002022-12-03T07:47:01.873-05:00T is for Toys: What to Know Before Buying Them<style>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9cN5mfhHrrnmUu-fx8VNvo1zuRdDVE8r9Mg5mLwmWOiqg4YhukgOtkStNyI2i6KumDZsLqqXT1jLMnI9yd-6UehIXjRXOXuWsvsnaMAxQVK44hicwWQVaXovoO5G1YZ0uOi1LvHT2iGPI/s1600/Baby+Toys.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9cN5mfhHrrnmUu-fx8VNvo1zuRdDVE8r9Mg5mLwmWOiqg4YhukgOtkStNyI2i6KumDZsLqqXT1jLMnI9yd-6UehIXjRXOXuWsvsnaMAxQVK44hicwWQVaXovoO5G1YZ0uOi1LvHT2iGPI/s1600/Baby+Toys.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">8 Mistakes To Avoid When Buying Toys</b></div>
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Each year many children are treated in hospital emergency rooms for toy-related injuries. Even innocent-looking toys such as marbles and balloons can present a hazard to small children. The National Safe Kids Campaign recommends avoiding the following when choosing toys:<br />
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<span style="font-family: "symbol"; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Toys with small removable parts. </b>Small parts are hazardous and can pose a choking hazard to children under age 3. Use a small-parts tester (which can be purchased at a toy or baby specialty store) to measure the size of the toy or part. If the piece fits entirely inside the tube, then it is considered a choking hazard.<br />
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<span style="font-family: "symbol"; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Toys with sharp points or edges. </b>Children may unintentionally cut themselves or another person.<br />
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<span style="font-family: "symbol"; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Toys that produce loud noises. </b>Toy guns, high-volume music players and other loud toys can permanently impair a child’s hearing. Many toys have decibel levels high enough to cause hearing loss.<br />
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<span style="font-family: "symbol"; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Toy darts and other projectiles. </b>Propelled toys can cause cuts or serious eye injuries.<br />
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<span style="font-family: "symbol"; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Toys with strings, straps or cords longer than 7 inches. </b>Long strings and cord could wrap around a child’s neck and unintentionally strangle him or her.<br />
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<span style="font-family: "symbol"; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Electrical toys. </b>Electrical toys are a potential burn hazard. Avoid toys with a heating element, including batteries and electrical plugs, for children under age 8.<br />
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<span style="font-family: "symbol"; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Toys painted with lead paint. </b>Exposure to lead can result in lead poisoning, causing serious damage to a child’s brain, kidneys and nervous system. If the toy is a family heirloom, be sure the paint is safe. In addition, toys manufactured in other countries may also contain lead paint. Lead testing kits are available at hardware and baby supply stores.<br />
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<span style="font-family: "symbol"; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Toy cap guns. </b>Aside from potentially encouraging violent play, paper roll, strip or ring caps can be ignited by the slightest friction and cause serious burns.</div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><br /></b> <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Source with More Information:</b></div>
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<a href="http://kidshealth.org/parent/growth/learning/safe_toys.html">http://kidshealth.org/parent/growth/learning/safe_toys.html</a><br />
<a href="https://www.safekids.org/safetytips/field_risks/toy-safety?gclid=CjwKEAiAvs7CBRC24rao6bGCoiASJABaCt5DWlIXruLOgrJSAp1D3WwsKNnyTLJU5BHXy3fciuf2yxoCFC7w_wcB">https://www.safekids.org/safetytips/field_risks/toy-safety?</a><br />
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<i>Enjoy your holidays with the kids, but be safe.</i><br />
<i>Happy Parenting,</i><br />
<i>Tania :)</i></div>
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<br />
Photo courtesy of Tania Cowling, all rights reserved</div>
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Kiddobloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16562732390669654269noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2343989656859722577.post-39788342873382332442022-11-02T11:01:00.000-04:002022-11-02T11:01:32.049-04:00Get Ready for Thanksgiving With Fun Turkey Songs<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYW7FFQF4fUJctXsSiSB-GKKxdWNZKaghbAyd0gTHNlfc7DbAB42NSGHKuCqVTBXCWJ8sMRRUIzWMO2fz2ognXSe_ygua1_VAjtEEHJqxTIxvq2J1UaRvt8TRn3I_QwEs0oxDxW3KNC3zh/s1600/vintage-1772596_640.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYW7FFQF4fUJctXsSiSB-GKKxdWNZKaghbAyd0gTHNlfc7DbAB42NSGHKuCqVTBXCWJ8sMRRUIzWMO2fz2ognXSe_ygua1_VAjtEEHJqxTIxvq2J1UaRvt8TRn3I_QwEs0oxDxW3KNC3zh/s320/vintage-1772596_640.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Turkeys are large birds, both wild and domestic. The
Pilgrims hunted wild turkeys for their Thanksgiving feast and this bird has
become a tradition in most American families for this holiday. Turkeys walk
with a specific waddle that children love to imitate. Invite the children to
pretend to be turkeys as they sing these songs.</div>
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How many ways can the <b>Hokey Pokey</b> be adapted? Here is a
version for Thanksgiving with plenty of movement.</div>
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<i>You put your right wing in (the elbow),</i></div>
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<i>You take your right wing out,</i></div>
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<i>You put your right wing in and you shake it all about.</i></div>
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<i>You do the Turkey Pokey and you wobble all around.</i></div>
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<i>That's what it's all about.</i></div>
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Continue singing and playing this game with these verses:</div>
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You put your left wing in...</div>
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You put your right leg in...</div>
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You put your left leg in...</div>
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You put your head in...</div>
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You put your whole self in...</div>
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This open-ended song emphasizes the sounds that turkeys make
and young children love to <b>act out the infamous 'gobble' sound.</b> Sing this
turkey song to the tune of "I'm a Little Teapot."</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjncE_7H9_di8W6UyYRvsExpVdizHXxfi6fVHKF01FFy4dCRI2ja2rUpSKdntzbHNwk7jojlceWyZCILZET1dc6b2RTB2ibmAJnuz46dVSahyxcFfJUYRdatp2CKz44ByWyUhbmpD0n6dQD/s1600/turkey-1456057_640.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjncE_7H9_di8W6UyYRvsExpVdizHXxfi6fVHKF01FFy4dCRI2ja2rUpSKdntzbHNwk7jojlceWyZCILZET1dc6b2RTB2ibmAJnuz46dVSahyxcFfJUYRdatp2CKz44ByWyUhbmpD0n6dQD/s320/turkey-1456057_640.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>I'm a little turkey,</i></div>
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<i>My name is Ted.</i></div>
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<i>Here are my feathers,</i></div>
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<i>Here is my head.</i></div>
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<i>Gobble, gobble, gobble,</i></div>
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<i>Is what I say,</i></div>
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<i>Quick run...It's Thanksgiving Day!</i></div>
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<b>Thanksgiving Dinner Song</b></div>
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Today this holiday is celebrated with a feast (just like the
first Thanksgiving) with family, relatives and friends. Sing this song about
what good food might be on the table. Use the tune of "Are You Sleeping/
Frere Jacques."</div>
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<i>Turkey dinner, turkey dinner,</i></div>
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<i>Gather round, gather round.</i></div>
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<i>Who will get the drumstick?</i></div>
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<i>Yummy, yummy drumstick.</i></div>
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<i>All sit down, all sit down.</i></div>
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<i>Cornbread muffins,</i></div>
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<i>Chestnut stuffing,</i></div>
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<i>Pudding pie, ten feet high.</i></div>
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<i>We were all much thinner, before we sat for dinner.</i></div>
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<i>Me, oh my, me, oh my!</i></div>
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All children benefit from experiences with music. It
enhances learning especially the child's language development. These
Thanksgiving songs for children will enlighten the holidays with fun music and
energetic movement.</div>
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<i>Note About Songs: Authors Unknown</i></div>
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<i>Photos courtesy of Pixabay.com --</i></div>
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<i>Thanksgiving, Kaz/1443 and Turkey Cartoon, GraphicMama-team-225; all CCO Public Domain</i></div>
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You have several weeks to teach these cute songs to your children. Music puts us into the happy, holiday mood. Don't you think?</div>
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Happy Parenting,</div>
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Tania :)</div>
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Kiddobloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16562732390669654269noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2343989656859722577.post-7494120574142779812022-10-07T16:01:00.000-04:002022-10-07T16:01:33.712-04:00Fun Halloween Crafts for Kids<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNCOCYG10QB1IRFK_gkLqp6ETLGNG94WZIuolkRGDErhibXGJ_7dLZry1fP3cyV7NHPY6TSJ-gwD8O9YJviA2M0meU4_5x6JPkSZCoZGIHGpTZFl-XUba0yyRdPmZb0IzxfKgdnk3ZOL45/s1600/Halloween+Tic-Tac-Toe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNCOCYG10QB1IRFK_gkLqp6ETLGNG94WZIuolkRGDErhibXGJ_7dLZry1fP3cyV7NHPY6TSJ-gwD8O9YJviA2M0meU4_5x6JPkSZCoZGIHGpTZFl-XUba0yyRdPmZb0IzxfKgdnk3ZOL45/s320/Halloween+Tic-Tac-Toe.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Get ready, as Halloween is coming on the 31st of October. What a
wonderful family holiday; a perfect time for parents and children to
spend time together carving pumpkins, designing costumes and planning
trick-or-treat activities. Kids can lose themselves in fun without
having to worry about normal, proper behavior. They can act out their
fantasies, dreams and imaginations, it's OK because it's Halloween. Spend good days together making these fun Halloween crafts for children.<br />
<br />
<b>Make a Bat with Hands</b><br />
Make use of a child's hands to make this fun Halloween bat. Trace each
hand onto black poster board, heavy construction paper or fun foam.
Then cut out a headpiece with pointed ears. Assemble the pieces with
glue or tape. The handprints are the bat's wings. Decorate the head with
googly eyes (or paper ones), a pompom nose, and a freaky mouth cut from
white paper. Add a yarn or ribbon loop at the top to hang this bat
decoration around the house.<br />
<br />
<b>Halloween Tic-Tac-Toe</b><br />
Take the traditional tic-tac-toe game and give it a Halloween flair.
Cut a large pumpkin from a sheet of orange poster board. Draw the game
grid with a black marker. Cut game markers (in Halloween shapes) from
construction paper. Another good tip is to use your computer and find
clip art that would serve as markers, you need at least five markers of
two different shapes. Preserve your game board and pieces covering them
with clear plastic adhesive paper if you wish. Enjoy playing this game
with the children and think about how this game can be made for other
holidays too.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXi1Dw_13JkItSo-7XMZkKBlsDAGv1KOuqjBUR4HsnPOq_Cv_pA_0VRkOmfAPOt50U9Epps3BsyRT1lmuOVM7-CCH-EHgOTPzxqDqmdgUlLa8LbnduZYdb9i0jFqAVUF6qCwuGDPZkcMyN/s1600/Halloween+Bat+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXi1Dw_13JkItSo-7XMZkKBlsDAGv1KOuqjBUR4HsnPOq_Cv_pA_0VRkOmfAPOt50U9Epps3BsyRT1lmuOVM7-CCH-EHgOTPzxqDqmdgUlLa8LbnduZYdb9i0jFqAVUF6qCwuGDPZkcMyN/s320/Halloween+Bat+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />
<br />
<br />
Photos courtesy of Tania Cowling, all rights reserved <br />
<br />
<i>Use the month of October to make crafts and decorate the home or classroom. Have fun bonding with your children and give them big hugs!</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Tania</i>Kiddobloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16562732390669654269noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2343989656859722577.post-13433456386821806562022-09-14T10:39:00.000-04:002022-09-14T10:39:41.806-04:00N is for Nature Walks<style>
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Take children on nature walks to look for bugs. Tell them to
observe only and not touch (a child might touch an insect that could sting).
Together talk about how some bugs crawl and other fly. Ask the children to
pretend to be an insect and move like the bugs they see. Sing songs like “Eensy
Weensy Spider” or “Bringing Home A Baby Bumblebee"</div>
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At home, plan a "bug hunting exploration" by
hiding several plastic toy bugs around the house and invite the children to
find them. Another variation is to fill a dishpan with clean sand, hiding the
toy bugs inside. Children can catch the toy bugs by using a tweezer or tongs to
pull the insects out.</div>
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<b>Make a Bug Hotel</b></div>
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In order to observe insects closely, try capturing a few
placing them in a well-confined temporary home. With a little “bug hotel”,
children can invite friendly insects inside to spend a day or night studying
them through its many windows. Youngsters can use poster paint to decorate the
outside of an oatmeal container. Paint or draw the windows, then use scissors
or a craft knife (adults only) to cut them open.</div>
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Placing insect stickers on the container would be fun too.
Take a piece of window screening and roll it so it rests snugly around the
inside of the container. Trim so the top edge fits beneath the lid and leave a
one-inch overlap where the sides meet. Place the lid on top. Glue a hotel sign
on the container – let the kids choose the name.</div>
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After the insects have been captured, take time together to
look at the bugs closely either with the naked eye or use a magnifying glass.
Count the legs, wings, antennae and look at the colors and patterns of the
insect. Be kind to the guests – provide some nature food and water (a filled
plastic water cap) while they are visiting. When observation is over, just
unfasten the lid and let the insects fly out.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiD8poK8BrSyaWwVV1vYXPVP7uc-9LX8BDvJCu25WDP5UWgDOoli2zx3JWiXkfhDOTj-8k5mW3wqUSRqCZWLoG-Qz0XKFUpa_5u3uaoM9mxZ80oNYuP4VEw_6hVp5ULG0EDp5SMZpEm1_4/s1600/Bug+Hotel.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiD8poK8BrSyaWwVV1vYXPVP7uc-9LX8BDvJCu25WDP5UWgDOoli2zx3JWiXkfhDOTj-8k5mW3wqUSRqCZWLoG-Qz0XKFUpa_5u3uaoM9mxZ80oNYuP4VEw_6hVp5ULG0EDp5SMZpEm1_4/s1600/Bug+Hotel.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Photos courtesy of Tania Cowling, all rights reserved</div>
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Kiddobloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16562732390669654269noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2343989656859722577.post-51162540094870847342022-08-28T11:38:00.000-04:002022-08-28T11:38:35.354-04:00Teaching Alphabet Letters to Preschool Children<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikLYZSyJj8YNf6ulLCin86j-ACW556b73NsHONpIaD1UB6HgT8JOPotZBzzq9O6FDME8qRwlS8d76SCVTTf8IbEtVo7XqS-LYH3__49qKv-UJPALgQKKEq8ZQT6Aw5nikAcNuNKshX1RrD/s1600/file000981201314.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikLYZSyJj8YNf6ulLCin86j-ACW556b73NsHONpIaD1UB6HgT8JOPotZBzzq9O6FDME8qRwlS8d76SCVTTf8IbEtVo7XqS-LYH3__49qKv-UJPALgQKKEq8ZQT6Aw5nikAcNuNKshX1RrD/s320/file000981201314.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Welcome to a new school year - whether you're a teacher or parent, these ongoing lesson posts will help you with ideas to foster early learning skills with your children.<br />
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When we think of preschool, it's as easy as ABC - well, there is more to learning the alphabet than just singing the ABC song. Here are some ideas to get you started.<br />
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When you allow young children to create alphabet letters using different art tools, materials, and techniques, they are more likely to recognize and learn how letters are formed. This article has three alphabet art ideas for your preschoolers. Let the children partake in these crafts where they will learn and become creative as well.<br />
<br /><b>Make Collage Letters</b><br /><br />Draw a box-type letter on a piece of cardboard or poster board. Invite the children to spread glue onto the letter and adhere any of the following materials to make a raised textured letter that they can feel. Think about using sand, seashells, crushed egg shells, paper scraps, dried beans or pasta, buttons, seeds, and even spices (so they can smell the letter). These are just a few ideas and I'm sure you can think of others. Sometimes it is best to coordinate the letter and the material used in the collage to make the letter sound. For example, when making a letter B, use buttons or with the letter S, use sand.<br /><br /><b>Create Letter Characters</b><br /><br />Give each child a block letter and colored markers. Invite them to 'dress up' the letter by drawing in facial features, hair, and designs. You can even give the children scraps of fabric for them to dress up the alphabet letter with clothes. Challenge the children to give their letter a name, such as "Billy B" or "Tara" T.<br /><br /><b>Unique Fingerprints</b><br />Do the children know that they have unique fingerprints and that no one else has the same prints? Even though they are young, it's a piece of information well worth mentioning. For this alphabet art craft, have the children stamp thumbprints to create letters. Take a foam produce tray and place a few layers of paper towels inside. The towels act as a stamp pad when tempera paint is poured on top. Have each child put a thumb into the paint tray and stamp out a thumbprint in the shape of a letter. It's best if the teacher lightly draws the letter on paper for the children to follow. Another variation is to fill in a block letter with a number of fingerprints, maybe in different colors too. <br /><br />
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Happy teaching and hug your little ones each day,<br />
<i>TANIA</i><br />
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Photo courtesy of <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/archive/display/3187" target="_blank">Morguefile</a>Kiddobloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16562732390669654269noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2343989656859722577.post-7754612387324030312022-08-03T11:34:00.003-04:002022-08-03T11:53:13.021-04:00August is Amblyopia Month - Kids With Lazy Eye Syndrome<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBGBmkSeYmDZDRMMBjQ4MR4lPaKisghH2AcAyGLaFjeSoNod8xU0M9212ByjlM5KT9v5Gy2S9YmxcnVX80iq7HI-dhAkftoHQ00Jhmr8mAQoUo35UzbyWXoiMVj3Wf8-LW6b95zA5dKEXaaErorHFYgmkmrDESxS9JvwnndAW2O8_6cfABdsMrBLhpOg/s1280/eyes%20child.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="1280" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBGBmkSeYmDZDRMMBjQ4MR4lPaKisghH2AcAyGLaFjeSoNod8xU0M9212ByjlM5KT9v5Gy2S9YmxcnVX80iq7HI-dhAkftoHQ00Jhmr8mAQoUo35UzbyWXoiMVj3Wf8-LW6b95zA5dKEXaaErorHFYgmkmrDESxS9JvwnndAW2O8_6cfABdsMrBLhpOg/s320/eyes%20child.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><i><br /></i><p></p><p><i><br /></i></p><p><i>Hello viewers.,</i></p><p><i>I'm attaching a media press release with medical information that I thought many would be interested in reading. I know many of you are not in Florida, but the information is helpful to all. </i></p><p><i>Enjoy your August,</i></p><p><i>Tania</i></p><p></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The Florida Society of
Ophthalmology (FSO) and the For Eye Care Foundation (FECF) have launched an
educational campaign recognizing August 2022 as “Amblyopia Awareness Month”.
The goal is to bring awareness about the importance and need for early vision
screenings that can detect serious vision problems such as Amblyopia, a vision
issue more commonly referred to as “lazy eye”. </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Amblyopia is the most
common, yet preventable, cause of permanent vision loss in children. In
Florida, fewer than 20 percent of preschool children are currently screened for
vision problems.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">“Early childhood
screenings are key to ensuring that no child has to lose their vision due to a
detectable and preventable issue, especially as many forms of amblyopia are
difficult to detect without a screening,” said Joseph T. Nezgoda, MD, MBA,
President of the Florida Society of Ophthalmology. “Our efforts this month echo
our mission- to educate parents and guardians on these common eye issues and
ensure they are empowered to ask questions, seek help and ensure that the best
eye care possible is provided to their children.”</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">During Florida’s 2022
legislative session, the Florida Senate approved a </span><a href="https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2022/1972/BillText/Filed/PDF"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">resolution</span></a><span style="font-size: 12pt;">
that would recognize August as “Amblyopia Awareness Month” in Florida. The
resolution also seeks to promote statewide preschool vision screenings, with
the goal of testing all children between 3 and 5 years of age.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">“I am proud to support the
education efforts of the Florida Society of Ophthalmology and the For Eye Care
foundation- the health of our children is critical, and we must ensure that
Florida’s parents and guardians are educated and informed so they can make the
best decision possible for their children,” said Senator Lori Berman, sponsor
of resolution.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p>Early vision screenings are the greatest tool parents have at their
disposal. The detection of amblyopia and other vision threatening disorders
like retinoblastoma tumors, cataracts, and strabismus in early childhood
increases the chances of successful treatment, especially if the disorder is
detected before a child reaches 5 years of age. Vision screenings can be done
by a child’s pediatrician or ophthalmologist and physicians recommend starting
at 12-months, repeating every few years. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">To learn more about the
FSO’s efforts, visit: </span><a href="https://www.mdeye.org/amblyopia"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">mdeye.org/amblyopia</span></a><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><i><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Photo courtesy of Pixabay.com </span><o:p></o:p></i></p><br /><p></p>Kiddobloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16562732390669654269noreply@blogger.com0