Teach With Science

Question of the day (QOTD) is part of our daily morning routine. We pose questions that aim to quickly:
1. Provoke conversation
2. Cause reflection on current topics
3. Reinforce SEL strategies
4. Make connections with classmates
5. Learn about each other

And the list can go on! QOTD is a very useful tool in our classroom environment.

Please slide me the "T" (letter sound) asks friend with the basket, ready to catch the alphabet bean bags coming in.

We played this game around April once the crew had some confidence in letter sounds. Great practice for both sides!
1. Looking at the collection/asking for your choice
2. Listening to your partner and finding their letter
3. Coordinating your pass

Fingerprints + black marker drawings
Invitation to try a new way to use dot paint by presenting art and designs from his book, The Great Thumbprint Drawing Book

Bubble gum bubble gum in a dish, how many pieces do you wish?

Waiting is hard for little ones, but there are ways to help them feel the time go by more quickly..like a short game with pals!

We can teach strategies like this, so in moments of downtime, students feel motivated to take ownership of their waiting time and start up a little game, grab a book, practice a new finger play etc.

Next time those little faces look at you and say "I'm bored!" try teaching the bubble gum game

One of our first partner activities/challenges in September.

The purpose was to see how classmates can work together, share supplies politely, take turns, help each other etc. The letter and Number sort served as a low buy in way to practice being a good partner :)

1 glue stick, one set of cards, one chart

Of course, always a reflection afterwards!
"How were you a good partner?" "Did you and your partner have any problems?" "What did you do to solve your problem?"

Another plug for
In January, my 4/5 year old crew reached a moment where hands/grip were strong, stamina was there, communication was strong to ask me to pause/rewind the tutorial.

This was a great time to invite these videos in! It became a very popular morning choice for weeks and they gained drawing skills that followed them into independent work times.

Keep plenty of black washable markers in hand!

Each morning we have about an hour of "exploration". A time to try a new game, create with friends, read, or try a new ART TECHNIQUE.
Bubble wrap printing was a popular choice this AM :)

Source: Kids Connect Psychology

Words to live by

source: unknown

If you are looking for good play therapy/OT follow.. The Occuplaytional Therapist was recommended to ME and I'm learning so much

The weight of everything has really been pressing down on me lately. Maybe you too.

And you’re still out here doing your best. Well done. It means something. It really does.