Dramatic Play

I love to create engaging themes for my dramatic play area.  Some of the themes we have explored are: house (of course), doctor's office, pet shop, restaurant, fantasy land, post office and market.  Share an idea you have found here.

Best Environments

The environment (the early childhood classroom) is considered the "Third Teacher" according to the Reggio Emilia Approach.  Share your ideas of engaging environments that you have created or seen in other classrooms.  Make sure you provide a brief description of how it is set up and also a picture.

Bibliotherapy Books for Children

Bibliotherapy for young children is when an adult reads a specific book to a child who is dealing with a specific issue or sensitive subject.  It can be the loss of a loved one, an illness, divorce, moving to a new location, a new baby, issues with anger, etc.
Find a book that you think is great for helping young children.  State what situation/issue the book addresses and summarize how this book can help children.

Outdoor Learning

Learning doesn't just take place in the classroom.  It continues and extends outside.  Please provide activity that can be set up outside that will engage the children as they play outside.

Sensory Play

Sensory play is a great way for children to explore the properties of different materials with the senses and is also enjoyable.  Please find and post a great sensory idea you have found and why you think this activity is a good one!  Also - add a link to a website that has great ideas.

Documentation - Making Learning Visible

I love to make wall panels. It is a great way to "show" the learning.  I always include the children's work, their dialogue and a explanation of what they are learning.  So much more than just a photo display!

Children's Portfolios

This year I am going to use binders to create "student portfolios" for each child in my class.  They will have access to them any time they want!
I will be putting in their drawings, artwork, dictation and photographs throughout the year.

Does anyone have some tips or suggestions on how to manage this or what to include in the portfolios?

My Family Curriculum

In the beginning of the year - I focus on getting to know my kids and their families.  I think it's a great way to foster home-school attachments.  I found this cute Family Tree diagram that I'm going to send home with my kiddos. I like it because it is very open-ended and they can add whomever they want to their tree - and in any order they want.
The other photo shows a "Family Crest."

Please post your ideas for promoting the family in your curriculum.

Family Crest

Family Tree