File Folder Fun

The kids beg to play with these.  They have no idea that they are learning all kinds of things...sorting, categorizing, sequencing, colors, matching, numbers...the learning is endless!  We try to only pull these out once or twice a month, that way they think it is a treat, and it is a great activity to do when the weather is bad and they can't go out to recess!

This one has pictures of several items and they divide them into HOT and COLD.

This one lets them put the missing alphabet letters in the right order.

This one is more like a beginner puzzle, they match not only the colors of the hearts, but also the shapes of the edges.

These three are matching...the animal fronts to the animal backs, the patterns on the chicks to the patterns on the baskets, and the pattern on the bees to the matching pattern on the flowers. 

And who doesn't love cupcakes?  With cherries?  Match the numbers of cherries with the number on the cupcake!  They count the cherries, then use their number recognition. 

To make your own file folders, you will need file folders and an idea.  We laminated ours so that they would last longer through repeated use, you will probably want to do that, too.  

You can buy books that have file folder ideas in them at book stores or teacher supply stores.  You can also download and print from sites like this http://www.filefolderfun.com/SearchPreschool.html, they have free downloads.  Also try googling "file folders" for more ideas!

A is for apple

We always start out the year teaching the vowels...beginning with "A!"  This week we are staring off with "A" is for Apple.  Gluing small objects on art projects is an important way for the kiddos to use those fingers and improve their fine-motor skills.  And Janette and I are always amazed at how different the kiddos projects turn out, even when dealing with the same items.  They are each so individual!

You will need:

• basic outline print of an apple (you can google images of apples, or try this one:  http://www.wpclipart.com/food/fruit/apple/apple_outline.png.html
• red, brown and green construction paper cut or torn into small peices   (you can let the kids tear their paper, if they have developed enough patience to tear and also make it through the gluing!)
• glue

While they glue, we like to talk about the different colors that apples come in, not just red.  It's fun to hear the kids come up with different things you can make with your apples...applesauce, apple pie, and caramel apples.  We also like to talk about the seeds inside the apple...and what would happen if you planted the seed?  

For snack, cut up apples and dip them in warm caramel.  Yum!