Ten years ago, I had the privilege of working as a developer for a program that supported families with young children. One of the key features of the program was a drop-in play and learn space—a welcoming environment where families could gather, explore, and connect. Designing spaces that felt warm
Our brains are wired for spoken language but we must be taught how to read starting with letter sounds. Reading is a skill that needs to be taught and practiced. While the brain already has areas for visual processing, understanding spoken language, and producing speech, learning to read requires building
The characteristics of play can not be defined with one term. I imagine if I were to ask you about the image that pops into your mind when I say the word play, the results would vary. Were you thinking of a child building with blocks? Or were thinking of
Earth Day is a great time to help your students learn about caring for the planet. With the right books and videos, you can bring Earth Day to life in a fun, playful way. Before jumping into Earth Day activities, it’s important to help young learners build background knowledge. Many
Jack and The Beanstalk in my Grade 1 Classroom This week, we focused on the classic tale Jack and the Beanstalk. We read several different versions of the story and spent time comparing and contrasting the characters, settings, and key events. We also watched a few video versions, giving students
One of the Saskatchewan Grade 1 Curriculum Outcomes focuses on the Needs and Characteristics of Living Things. In order to make the learning more hands on, I involve the students in various learning about plants experiences. Hands-On Learning About Plants Hands-on learning brings science to life for young learners. When
Play-Doh is more than just colorful and squishy; it’s a versatile tool that supports various aspects of child development. When children engage with the dough, they are not only having fun but also building essential skills that contribute to their overall growth. Here’s how Play-Doh play can benefit children in
Outdoor play is essential for children’s development. When children play outside, they engage in activities that contribute to their overall well-being and learning in ways that indoor activities often cannot match. Here’s how outdoor play benefits children in the classroom and beyond: 1. Develops Gross Motor Muscles Playing outside allows
Painting is more than just an artistic activity; it’s a valuable educational tool that supports various aspects of a child’s development. Through painting, children can explore their creativity, build essential skills, and express themselves in unique ways. Here’s how painting benefits children: 1. Supports Colours, Shapes, and Lines Recognition When
LEGO bricks are more than just a popular toy; they are a powerful tool for learning and development. I have always loved offering children LEGO for play. While playing they engage in so many activities that build essential skills and foster creativity. Here’s how LEGO play benefits children in the
I share teaching tips, strategies, lesson experiences and classroom snapshots to support your 3 to 6 year old learners.
